Building a stronger, more dynamic state
As we begin the new South Carolina legislative session in Columbia this month, our House Republican Caucus has outlined what it calls a “South Carolina First Agenda.” It is a framework built not on slogans but on real progress made over the past few years for families, workers, and small businesses across our state.
In fact, several of these key legislative wins were achieved during 2025 that I believe will continue to shape South Carolina’s economic strength and quality of life for decades to come.
Reducing red tape for small businesses
As chairman of the House Regulations, Admin Procedures, Artificial Intelligence & Cyber Security Committee, I was instrumental in introducing and spearheading a milestone House victory – unanimous 108-0 passage of House Bill 3021, the “Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act.”
This legislation marks a critical step toward restoring a proper balance between the state government and the small business entrepreneurs who drive our state economy. It now rests with the Senate Judiciary Committee for final passage.
Although South Carolina has long been recognized as a pro-business state, we realized that even well-intentioned regulations can pile up over time, creating barriers for entrepreneurs and small employers. We have now set a course to remove those barriers.
This legislation requires state agencies to more carefully evaluate the cost and impact of new regulations—especially on small businesses that don’t have compliance departments or legal teams.
For example, the law directs our Committee to help reduce the total number of regulatory requirements by 25% -- a clear goal to trim outdated, duplicative, or unnecessary rules that slow economic growth. And for every new regulation proposed, an agency must identify two existing regulations to eliminate.
It is a simple mechanism aimed at preventing the creeping regulatory thicket that has crippled small businesses in states like California.
Lower taxes, more take-home pay
Tax relief remained a priority in 2025 and will be pursued aggressively this year with income tax cuts aimed at making South Carolina more affordable for working families, retirees, and young professionals.
Lowering this tax burden is not just about dollars and cents—it’s about competitiveness. Families should not be taxed out of opportunity, and businesses should not be driven elsewhere because our state costs too much to call home.
Securing our energy future
The Energy Security Act in 2025 addressed a growing concern for residents and businesses alike: reliable, affordable power. As South Carolina grows, so does our demand for electricity. This legislation focuses on strengthening the electric grid, modernizing infrastructure, and ensuring long-term reliability—without losing sight of affordability for consumers.
These legislative actions reflect a consistent philosophy: South Carolina works best when government is limited, accountable, and focused on practical results.
As we move forward, this South Carolina First approach will continue to guide our work—protecting opportunity, strengthening families, and ensuring our state remains a place where people want to live, work, and raise the next generation.
Jeff Bradley is the representative for District 123 in the State House of Representatives.
