S.264 would amend the Senate rules to allow any bill or resolution that has 27 or more cosponsors to be placed on the Senate calendar without reference, i.e. to skip the committee process in the Senate. This change would cut short debate on bills and resolutions and deny citizens much of their opportunity for input on these pieces of legislation. This appears to be nothing more than an attempt to make it easier for the legislature to rush through bad legislation. Every piece of legislation should receive proper debate and consideration regardless of how many cosponsors it has.
By South Carolina Policy Council
Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.