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South Carolina House to Debate $15 Billion Budget Plan

3/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The South Carolina House of Representatives will hold a Monday session on March 9, 2026 to begin debate on a $15 billion budget.
The budget funds infrastructure, teacher pay raises, and Medicaid maintenance.
One proposal would cut the top income tax rate to 5.21 percent, costing nearly $309 million.
The plan includes a $66.9 million raise for state employees.
The House aims to pass both income tax bills this session.

History

Historical Context

South Carolina's tax reforms began in 2017, reducing the top income tax rate to 7%, impacting state revenue by about $300 million. As the House debates a $15 billion budget, proposals to further lower the rate to 5.21% reflect ongoing efforts to enhance public services and infrastructure, echoing historical initiatives aimed at improving education and healthcare funding.

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Story summary

The South Carolina House of Representatives will hold a Monday session on March 9, 2026 to begin debate on a $15 billion budget.
The budget funds infrastructure, teacher pay raises, and Medicaid maintenance.
One proposal would cut the top income tax rate to 5.21 percent, costing nearly $309 million.
The plan includes a $66.9 million raise for state employees.
The House aims to pass both income tax bills this session.

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