Governor Outlines Bold Vision for South Carolina in State of the State Address
January 29, 2025In his annual State of the State address, Governor Henry McMaster reflected on South Carolina’s successes in 2024, acknowledged challenges ahead, and laid out an ambitious vision for the future. Addressing the General Assembly, he emphasized economic growth, education, public safety, and disaster recovery efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
Honoring Fallen Heroes
The Governor began his address by recognizing those in uniform who lost their lives in 2024, including among them Laurens County’s own, Firefighter Michael Douglas Vinson. He extended condolences to their families and expressed gratitude for their service.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
McMaster highlighted another record-breaking year for South Carolina’s economy, reporting $8.2 billion in capital investment and 5,500 new jobs. He acknowledged major corporations investing in the state, including Google, Boeing, EnerSys, and Keurig Dr. Pepper, emphasizing the state’s pro-business policies and skilled workforce.
He also reiterated his commitment to reducing the personal income tax rate, proposing a cut from 6.2% to 6% and advocating for its eventual elimination to keep South Carolina competitive.
Infrastructure and Disaster Recovery
The Governor detailed the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene, the deadliest storm in state history. He praised the swift response from linemen and emergency workers, noting the significant recovery efforts still needed. He proposed a $150 million state public assistance program to aid local governments and nonprofits in disaster recovery and an additional $100 million for bridge construction across the state.
Education and Workforce Development
Education was a focal point of the address, with McMaster calling for an increase in the state’s minimum starting teacher salary to $50,000. He also proposed continued investment in early childhood education and expanded funding for workforce training programs. He urged lawmakers to pass a new Education Scholarship Trust Fund bill to expand school choice options for families.
Public Safety and Law Enforcement Support
McMaster underscored the importance of “funding the police” and proposed a $2,000 state income tax credit for law enforcement officers, firefighters, first responders, and EMTs. He also called for additional resources to combat illegal gun possession and animal fighting, citing the need for stronger enforcement measures.
One of his key public safety priorities is ensuring that every public school in South Carolina has a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO). Since 2018, the state has increased the number of SROs from 406 to 1,106, leaving only 177 schools without one. He urged the General Assembly to fully fund the grant program to provide SROs in every school, emphasizing the critical role they play in keeping students and staff safe.
“The most important step a child takes each day is the one they take through the school door,” McMaster said. “They need to be safe when they take that step.”
Healthcare and Mental Health Reform
Highlighting deficiencies in the state’s mental health system, the Governor called for restructuring the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs to make them directly accountable to the Governor’s office. He also proposed funding for a new state-of-the-art neurological hospital to improve stroke and dementia care.
Energy and Environmental Conservation
Recognizing the need for energy independence, McMaster supported efforts to restart construction on two abandoned nuclear reactors at the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station. He also emphasized the importance of continued investment in land conservation, citing successes in protecting nearly 100,000 acres of environmentally significant land in 2024.
Looking Ahead
The Governor concluded with a call for unity and a commitment to ensuring South Carolina remains a leader in economic growth, public safety, and education. As the state prepares for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, he urged citizens to take pride in their history and embrace the opportunities ahead.
“May God continue to bless America and our great state of South Carolina,” McMaster said, expressing optimism that “the best is yet to come.”