Hotlist: April 14, 2025
Hey friends!
Last week was relatively calm at the Statehouse. The Senate held a perfunctory session as they prepared for this week’s budget debates. That meant no general floor sessions—just a handful of committee meetings, primarily from Senate Finance.
On the House side, conservation issues didn’t come up, making it one of those rare, quiet weeks for our priorities. Still, we’re hard at work behind the scenes as we gear up for the final sprint toward the end of session. Below, we’ll share some of the key bills we’re focused on.
SC Prosper & Preserve bills to receive committee hearings
S.288 (Transferable Development Rights) is expected before the Judiciary Committee tomorrow, 4/15, and we’re hopeful for a subcommittee hearing for H.4050 (Concurrent Infrastructure Requirements) in the coming weeks. Together, these sustainable planning tools make up our SC Prosper & Preserve initiative and would offer a solution to the unmanaged growth we’ve seen throughout the state. Visit our action center below and urge your legislators to support both bills!
Energy bill (H.3309) awaiting decision from House
After substantial amendments from the Senate, the House will soon decide whether to agree with the changes made by the Senate (concur) on H.3309 and send the bill to the Governor or to continue negotiations (nonconcur). With the House on furlough this week, no action will be taken; however, the issue will likely be addressed as early as next week.
Thanks to significant advocacy efforts and key improvements made along the way, the Senate version of the bill represents a more balanced outcome for South Carolina electric customers and the environment. Overall, this bill still authorizes a partnership on the joint Canadys gas plant but ensures that it and similar projects undergo full review by the Public Service Commission. It also keeps the door open for clean energy to compete and grow in South Carolina. Check out our recap from last week to see a more detailed breakdown of the good, the bad, and the bottom line.
We’re hopeful the House will preserve key Senate changes that ensure strong oversight and accountability in utility regulation and permitting, promote common-sense advancements in areas like energy efficiency, and avoid unnessary barriers to low-cost clean energy sources.
We’ll continue conversations with House members and keep you informed if action is needed! Thank you for standing with us as we push for a cleaner, more affordable, and reliable energy future for South Carolina.
Support CVSCEF on Midlands Gives Day!
This spring, CVSC Education Fund is joining nonprofits from across 11 Midlands counties for Midlands Gives, a powerful time of philanthropy that strengthens South Carolina’s communities. This year, your support will help fund the Palmetto Leadership Academy, our initiative to prepare dedicated South Carolinians for leadership service on public boards and commissions. Join us in shaping the future of conservation leadership—every gift makes a difference! Early giving is open now! Give today through May 6th!
Action Center
Here’s a round-up of current actions you can take to help us advance conservation policy during this legislative session. If you’ve already taken these actions, thank you! We’ll add more actions and provide updates as progress unfolds.
- Ask Your Legislators to Support Transfer of Development Rights
- Ask Your Legislators to Support Concurrent Infrastructure Requirements
In the News
- Utilities and environmental groups back deal to build Lowcountry gas plant. But there are concerns. | Post & Courier
The Legislative Hotlist is an update from our Government Relations Manager, Alan Lee. Sign up for emails to get the Hotlist delivered directly to your inbox!