SCMA kicks off 2025 manufacturing priorities at statehouse event
January 29, 2025The South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance (SCMA) unveiled its vision for the future of manufacturing in the Palmetto State during SC Manufacturing Day at the Statehouse.
Introducing the organization’s 2025 legislative agenda, SCMA President and CEO Sara Hazzard – joined by S.C. Senate President Thomas Alexander, S.C. Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey and S.C. House LCI Chairman Bill Herbkersman – announced policy initiatives to drive innovation, boost job growth, and make the state even more competitive for economic development, as neighbors, and the entire country, attempt to replicate the success South Carolina has seen over the past decade.
SCMA brings together manufacturers and policymakers each year to celebrate the industry’s contributions. As a part of the celebration, industry leaders champion legislative proposals that reflect input from manufacturing executives serving on its Board of Directors and prioritize six core areas crucial to sustaining a vibrant industrial economy:
1. Legal Reform – Ensuring a fair and balanced regulatory framework.
2. Energy Policy – Advocating for affordable, reliable energy solutions.
3. Tax and Economic Development – Promoting a competitive tax structure that fosters business investment.
4. Workforce Development and Education – Building a pipeline of talent to meet the industry’s evolving needs.
5. Streamlined Regulatory Environment – Supporting sustainability and regulatory efficiency.
6. Infrastructure – Improving critical systems to support manufacturing growth.
Key state officials participated in today’s event to underscore the importance of collaboration between government and industry.
“Manufacturing is the engine powering South Carolina’s economy,” said Sara Hazzard, SCMA President and CEO. “From making record-setting investments to kick-starting careers, manufacturers create opportunities across South Carolina. Our legislative agenda is a commitment to work with policymakers, industry leaders, employees, and stakeholders to ensure the foundation for economic opportunity and prosperity that manufacturers are laying is one we can build on for decades to come.”
For more details on the SCMA’s 2025 legislative priorities, click here.
The event also included the leadership team from American Honda Motor Co., Inc., South Carolina, makers of the Talon side-by-side vehicle, which was named the “Coolest Thing Made in SC” in 2024. They helped kick off the 2025 Manufacturing Madness contest, inviting the public to nominate their favorite products starting February 10 at www.scmanufacturingmadness.com.
South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance
The South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance is the only statewide organization dedicated exclusively to the interests of manufacturers. Its mission is to strengthen and advance South Carolina manufacturing by advocating for our members, fostering a world-class workforce, and bringing together manufacturers to connect, share, and solve industry challenges. The SCMA membership is comprised of more than 200 manufacturing companies that represent more than 100,000 associates in South Carolina.