Legislators will be working on the budget this week, but two efforts that have been mired in debate for years will be heard in front of subcommittees this week.
The effort to cut several of the statewide positions we vote for every four years will get the ear of a House Judicial subcommitee on Wednesday. Each piece of legislation targets a particular office, an effort by supporters to pick their battles, leaving offices alone if they can’t find the votes on the floor.
House Speaker Bobby Harrell introduced a new bill last week that might give an indication of which offices could go. His single bill would eliminate the adjutant general, agriculture commissioner, secretary of state and the education superintendent.
Meanwhile, a Senate subcommittee will consider several payday lending reform bills, including another Harrell proposal that moved through the House last month. Opponents say it supports the industry, not the consumer.
In other news, the Firefly Sweat Tea Vodka bill will get a Senate subcommitee hearing. The bill would enable the local manufacturer to offer a limited volume of the popular drink, as well as tasting and tours of its Wadmalaw Island facility.
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