To My District 24 Neighbors:
This past week at the State House we continued our ongoing focus on achieving practical results to improve public safety, protect families, and keep our costs in check.
Public Safety & Rule of Law
The House passed legislation to strengthen coordination between state and federal law enforcement on immigration enforcement (H.4764). The goal is straightforward: ensure consistency, support local officers, and focus resources on individuals who commit crimes.
We also advanced stronger penalties for the sexual exploitation of minors (H.4804) — closing loopholes and ensuring repeat offenders face serious consequences. Protecting children isn’t negotiable.
Additionally, we approved legislation increasing penalties for harming police K9s and horses. (I wrote about that bill previously – H.3034.) These animals are part of law enforcement and the law should reflect that.
Protecting Families & Students
We passed measures to improve accountability in higher education through regular faculty evaluations and post-tenure reviews (H.4761). Taxpayers and students deserve transparency and results.
The House also approved new safeguards aimed at protecting minors online H.4591 — giving parents more control and addressing some of the more aggressive features of social media that target kids.
Lowering Costs
Affordability remains a top concern. The House passed legislation aimed at reducing insurance costs by addressing fraud and improving transparency. H.4817 cracks down on fraud and abuse that drive up premiums, increases transparency and accountability for insurance companies, and helps homeowners take steps to reduce risk and lower costs. The goal is simple: fair, affordable insurance for all South Carolinians.
There’s still work ahead, but the focus remains the same: practical solutions that improve safety, strengthen families, and respect taxpayers.
As always, I appreciate the opportunity to serve and welcome your feedback. I encourage you to reach out at any of the phones or emails below if you have any questions or would like more information on these or other issues before the General Assembly.
Bruce Bannister
S.C. House of Representatives – District 24
Gower-Augusta Road-Alta Vista-Hollingsworth Park-Mauldin
brucebannister@schouse.gov (official email)
bruce@brucebannister.com (campaign email)
Statehouse Phone: (803) 734-3144
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