2025 Legislative Recap
Still a LOT left to do!
Hello friends,
As your representative in the South Carolina House, I want to share an update on our work during the 2025 legislative session. It's been a busy time, and I'm proud of the strides we've made in promoting conservative values and responsible governance.
🏡 Legislative Initiatives
Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (H.3499)
I introduced H.3499 to propose a constitutional amendment establishing a "Taxpayer's Bill of Rights." This measure would require voter approval for any new or increased taxes and fees, ensuring that government growth remains in check and accountable to the people.
Partisan School Board Elections (H.3759)
Transparency in our education system is crucial. That's why I sponsored H.3759, which mandates that all school board elections in South Carolina be conducted on a partisan basis. This change aims to provide voters with clear information about candidates' affiliations and beliefs.
Youth Income Tax Exemption (H.3865)
Encouraging our youth to engage in the workforce is vital. H.3865 proposes exempting individuals under 18 from state income tax and filing requirements, simplifying tax processes for families and promoting early employment.
School Enrollment ID Requirements (H.3866)
To ensure the integrity of our public school enrollment, I introduced H.3866, which would require adults enrolling a child to present valid government-issued identification.
Ethics Law Clarification (H.4162)
Strengthening ethical standards is a priority. H.4162 aims to amend the definition of "anything of value" in ethics laws, closing loopholes and promoting transparency among public officials.
Dementia Care Tax Deduction (H.4167)
Supporting caregivers is essential. This bill offers a state income tax deduction for individuals covering medical expenses for dementia care on behalf of others, providing financial relief to families.
South Carolina Medical Freedom Act (H.4009)
Co-sponsored by myself, this legislation ensures individuals can refuse medical treatments, including vaccines, without facing discrimination, and protects healthcare professionals advocating for patient rights.
💰 Budget Advocacy
Fiscal responsibility remains at the forefront of our agenda. The Freedom Caucus proposed $1 billion in spending cuts to reduce the state income tax rate from just over 6% to 5%. Although the proposal was voted down, we continue to advocate for fundamental fiscal reform.
“If we’re going to cut taxes that boldly, we need to cut government boldly,” I stated during budget discussions. (scdailygazette.com)
🗳️ Opposition to H.4216: Fighting Tax Hikes
During the 2025 legislative session, I stood firmly against House Bill 4216, a proposal that, in its original form, would have imposed tax increases on approximately 70% of South Carolinians. This bill, embedded within the broader state budget, threatened to expand government spending without sufficient transparency or accountability.
As a leader of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus, I, along with my colleagues, raised alarms about the bill's implications. We introduced over 100 amendments to the budget (H.4025) aimed at curbing excessive spending and preventing undue tax burdens on our citizens. Our efforts highlighted the need for fiscal responsibility and the protection of taxpayers' interests.
Through persistent advocacy and detailed scrutiny, we succeeded in reducing the scope of the proposed tax increases. The final version of H.4216, while still concerning, was amended to affect approximately 25% of the population—a significant improvement from its initial reach.
I voiced my opposition to the bill during a speech on the House floor, emphasizing the importance of deliberate and transparent governance:
“We’re spending $14 billion of other people’s money. It’s very easy to do when it’s not yours, but when it’s other people’s money, it should be deliberate. That is the purpose of why we are here—to have these lengthy (and sometimes painful) discussions.” (fitsnews.com)
Obviously raising taxes on 25% of the population is still entirely unacceptable. Particularly since the preponderance of taxpayers that would feel the hike are families that make between $100,000 and $300,000 a year. I've already been in discussions with Senators on how to fix this bill so that no one will pay more in taxes.
Here's my speech against the bill on the floor:
🗳️ Leadership and Legislative Strategy
At the session's outset, the Freedom Caucus challenged the re-election of House Speaker Murrell Smith, advocating for leadership that aligns more closely with conservative principles. Although the challenge was unsuccessful, it underscored our commitment to influencing the legislative agenda.
“We need conservative leadership, bold leadership—not malicious—willing to work with everybody. Willing to be fair,” I emphasized. (apnews.com)
🏫 Education Reform: DEI and School Choice
Ending DEI Initiatives
I co-sponsored H.3927, the "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity Act," aiming to prohibit state agencies and educational institutions from promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This bill seeks to reinforce merit-based principles and eliminate identity-based preferences in public institutions.
Advancing School Choice
Expanding educational options for families is a priority. I supported S.62, the Education Scholarship Trust Fund bill, which passed the House with significant amendments, including shifting funding to the general fund and modifying enrollment and income restrictions. This legislation aims to provide scholarships for private K-12 tuition, enhancing educational choices for parents and students.
Thank you for entrusting me to represent you. Together, we continue to work towards a more accountable, transparent, and conservative South Carolina.
Look out for an upcoming announcement for a town hall in mid June at Midtown Nexton’s clubhouse.
For Liberty,
Jordan Pace
State Representative, District 117
Chair, South Carolina Freedom Caucus