Dear Friend, Welcome back to my Week in Review newsletter. In addition to these weekly updates, you can sign up to receive other issue-specific newsletters here. Also, please remember to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for regular updates on how I am serving the people of South Carolina! Choosing Children Over Big Labor For months, the data has told us that classrooms are one of the safest places for children. Meanwhile, virtual education has led to increased mental health issues and unprecedented learning loss among students. It is unacceptable that some districts are still prioritizing Big Labor over our children’s futures. Last week, I released a new video series titled “Open Schools Now,” in which I discussed the detrimental impact of keeping children out of the classroom. I also heard from folks who have seen the effects of school closures firsthand – a high schooler and a leading pediatric infectious diseases expert. Check out the full series on my Twitter or Facebook, and raise your voice with me in calling for schools to be open, full-time, now. Defending Your Wallets In a severe infringement on states’ rights, Democrats slipped a provision into their so-called “COVID-relief” bill that prevents states from cutting taxes through 2024. It goes without saying that South Carolinians know best how to use their own money, and our state shouldn’t be penalized for responsible fiscal policy. Previously, I introduced the State Fiscal Flexibility Act, which would eliminate that harmful provision. And just last week, I joined Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) in leading an amicus brief in support of a lawsuit against the Treasury Department for this unlawful and partisan federal overreach. I am committed to keeping the federal government out of South Carolinians’ wallets and giving people greater opportunities to live out their dreams. Victory For Allergy Research More than 32 million Americans experience food allergies, which come with additional costs and make it hard to determine what products are safe to eat. To address these growing challenges, last month I introduced the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education and Research (FASTER) Act. This bill will codify sesame as a major food allergen and create a comprehensive report on food allergies in the United States to inform future legislation and research. I’m pleased to report that last week the House passed the FASTER Act, which is now heading to the president’s desk, to be signed into law. I trust this bill will be enacted soon to ease burdens on folks across the country. Have a great week! Sincerely, |