Update – December 22 to January 3, 2011

The House of Representatives begins the 2011 session on January 11, 2011. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

Happy New Year: Happy New Year to you and your family! During the Holidays, I hope that you took a few moments to remember the true meaning for why we celebrate Christmas. I also hope that you were able to spend time with family and friends and reflect on how blessed that we are to live in the United States. My wife Heather and I hope and pray that the New Year brings you much joy, health, and happiness. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in the South Carolina House of Representatives.

2010 Census and Reapportionment: The 2010 Census has resulted in a reapportionment of representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. Because of South Carolina’s population growth over the past decade compared to the rest of the U.S., South Carolina will gain one seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. There will now be 7 members of Congress from South Carolina after the 2012 elections. South Carolina joined Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Arizona in gaining at least one seat in the U.S. House.

Blue Ribbon Commission on America’s Nuclear Future: The U.S. Department of Energy’s Blue Ribbon Commission on America’s Nuclear Future will be in Aiken County this week. The Commission will tour SRS and have a public meeting on Friday, January 7 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Augusta Marriott Hotel and Suites. The Commission is charged with making recommendations to the current Presidential Administration on nuclear issues including the storage, processing, and disposal of civilian and defense spent nuclear fuel and nuclear waste. For more information, click here.

Message to Department of Energy and Blue Ribbon Commission: During the past couple of months, I have joined other area leaders in meeting with representatives from the U.S. Dept. of Energy and in preparing a message for the Blue Ribbon Commission. That message can be summarized as follows:

1. The DOE must ensure that Yucca Mountain remains in line to be the final destination for the nation’s nuclear waste in a vitrified form and the nuclear waste at SRS should not remain there indefinitely.;

2. If Yucca Mountain is no longer an alternative as a final repository for keeping the nation’s nuclear waste in vitrified form, then the DOE should support returning the over $1.0 Billion paid by South Carolinian utility ratepayers over the past few decades for the development of Yucca Mountain.;

3. The DOE should consider using SRS facilities and expertise to help solve the national issue involving Yucca Mountain and disposal of high level nuclear waste.;

4. The DOE must be committed to SRS long term for both clean up and for its use in meeting the future energy needs of the nation. This includes development of an Energy Park at SRS.;

5. The DOE must be committed to the National Lab at SRS just as it is to the other 11 national labs around the nation. This commitment should include increased financial support; new infrastructure; and the support of new missions for research and development at the Lab.

Comptroller General’s 2010 Annual Financial Report: On December 23, Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom’s office released the 2010 Financial Annual Report for the State. The report can be accessed on my website by clicking here.

Owens Corning Expanding Production in Aiken County: Owens Corning announced just before Christmas that it is expanding its Aiken County plant by adding another production line for non-woven glass fiber mat. The Company intends to invest $36 Million in the expansion and hire 24 more people at the plant. To learn more, click here.

New State Flag for Schools in District: If you know of a school in District 81 which needs a new South Carolina state flag, please let me know.

Aiken County Legislative Delegation: The next meeting is on Monday, January 10, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. at the Aiken County Council Chambers.

Holiday Mailer to District with 2011 Magnetic Calendar: If you live in District 81 and did not receive my Holiday mailer with the 2011 Magnetic Calendar, please let me know. They were delivered on December 20 and December 21 last month.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update –December 15 to December 21, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session and begins the 2011 session on January 11, 2011. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family! During this month of December, we have all been busy with the sights and sounds of the season. Nevertheless, I hope that you will take a few moments over the next few days to remember the true meaning for why we celebrate Christmas. Spend time with family and friends and reflect on how blessed that we are to live in the United States. My wife Heather and I hope and pray that the Holiday Season and the New Year bring you much joy, health, and happiness. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Prefiling of Bills for Next Legislative Session: On December 7 and December 14, several bills were prefiled for the upcoming session at the S.C. House. I am cosponsor of the roll call voting bill. Additionally, I prefiled eighteen (18) bills as primary sponsor including bills that will do the following:

* Shorten the legislative session;

* Allow the appointment by the Governor of the State Treasurer; Secretary of State; Superintendent of Education; Comptroller General; Agricultural Commissioner; and Adjutant General;

* Require the Governor and Lt. Governor to run together as a ticket;

* Reduce the number of school districts statewide by setting a mandatory minimum number of students that a district must have to receive state funds;

* Reduce the high school drop out rate by requiring school attendance or early graduation as a condition to drive a motor vehicle before the age of 18;

* Impose mandatory jail time for criminal solicitation of a minor child;

* Create a state income tax deduction for a portion of long term care insurance premiums as an incentive to purchase long term care insurance;

* Require state agencies to report any “carry forward” “other funds” appropriations to the General Assembly by a certain date so that the amount of and purpose for “carry forward” funds are known to lawmakers and the public;

* Mandate zero base budgeting to be used in the state budget process.

Aiken County Legislative Delegation: The next meeting is on Monday, January 10, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. at the Aiken County Council Chambers.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update –December 1 to December 14, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

SCDOT Commissioners in Aiken: The S.C. Department of Transportation Commissioners held their monthly meeting on Thursday, December 2 in Aiken City Council Chambers. Our local legislative delegation with both County and City officials invited the Commissioners to come to Aiken County. The meeting went well. Last week, I spoke with each of the Commissioners who attended, and they were all very complimentary of how well prepared both the City and County were in their presentations and how well the City and County work together on road projects.

TRAC Commission Recommendations: The report from the Tax Realignment Commission was released last week. The report recommends many changes including the following:

* Eliminate or amend more than 60 of the state’s 80 sales and use tax exemptions, caps, and discounts;

* Reduce the statewide sales tax rate from 6% to 5% and possibly 4%;

* Raise the tax on fuel from 16 cents a gallon to 22.25 cents a gallon;

* Reduce the exclusion of tax liability on capital gains income from 44% to 20%;

* Equalize taxes paid by primary residents and owners of second homes;

* Require all tax filers pay a fee of $50 if there is no state income tax liability since 41% of all tax filers in the state pay no state income taxes;

* Reduce the top 7% tax bracket for most filers down to 6%;

* Reduce number of standard deductions and personal exemptions;

* Does not recommend instituting the Fair Tax.

The link to the full report is here. The link to the Executive Summary is here. You may access material that the Commission considered in its seventeen (17) meetings by going to the “Citizens’ Interest” page at www.scstatehouse.gov.

Comments on TRAC: I am studying the lengthy TRAC Report. Previously, I stated that a flaw in the TRAC process was that there was not a simultaneous review of spending on the state level. (The Legislative Audit Council did a spending review in 1992. I recently obtained a copy of that report and I am reviewing it too.) Nevertheless, the materials and recommendations in the TRAC report should be considered as we look at tax reform and where we want South Carolina to be 3, 5, 10, and 20 years from now. I do not believe that any effort to raise certain taxes will pass the General Assembly UNLESS there are simultaneous spending reductions and reductions in other taxes so that raising a particular tax is “revenue neutral.” Governor-elect Haley is expected to introduce a tax reform plan some time early next year. If you read the TRAC materials in detail, please let me know your thoughts.

Prefiling of Bills for Next Legislative Session: Last week, several bills were prefiled for the upcoming session at the S.C. House. I am cosponsor of the roll call voting bill. Additionally, I prefiled sixteen (16) bills as primary sponsor including bills that will do the following:

* Shorten the legislative session;

* Allow the appointment by the Governor of the State Treasurer; Secretary of State; Superintendent of Education; Comptroller General; Agricultural Commissioner; and Adjutant General;

* Require the Governor and Lt. Governor to run together as a ticket;

* Reduce the number of school districts statewide by setting a mandatory minimum number of students that a district must have to receive state funds;

* Reduce the high school drop out rate by requiring school attendance or early graduation as a condition to drive a motor vehicle before the age of 18;

* Impose mandatory jail time for criminal solicitation of a minor child;

* Create a state income tax deduction for a portion of long term care insurance premiums as an incentive to purchase long term care insurance.

Prefiling of Bills – Part II: Other bills may be prefiled today (December 14). I will prefile another bill today that will require state agencies to report any “carry forward” “other funds” appropriations to the General Assembly by a certain date so that the amount of and purpose for “carry forward” funds are known to lawmakers and the public. I also am prefiling a bill today that will mandate zero base budgeting to be used in the state budget process. More legislation may be filed after the General Assembly returns on January 11, 2011. I will provide a complete list of all prefiled bills in the next weekly update.

MTU Detroit Diesel Grand Opening: MTU Detroit Diesel held its grand opening for his new manufacturing plant in Aiken County on December 1. The plant specializes in the manufacture of diesel engines and systems for off-highway use. Currently, eighty (80) people are working at the plant and the plant is expected to employ 250 people within 4 years. We are fortunate to have them come to Aiken with their new plant.

Aiken County School District: On November 30, 2010, the School District presented a presentation entitled “Budget 101” regarding the District’s budget. A copy can be seen by clicking here.

Tours at SRS: There will be 30 tours of the Savannah River Site (SRS) in 2011 which are open to the public. For more information on the tours, please click here.

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the unfunded liabilities in our state’s retirement system. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Aiken County Legislative Delegation: The next meeting is on Monday, January 10, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. at the Aiken County Council Chambers.

Celebrate Aiken Birthday Event: Aiken’s 175th birthday celebration will be this Saturday, December 18 from 1 to 4:00 p.m. at the USC Aiken Convocation Center. The event is open to the public.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update –November 24 to November 30, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

SCDOT Commissioners in Aiken: The S.C. Department of Transportation Commissioners are holding their monthly meeting this Thursday, December 2 in Aiken City Council Chambers at 10:00 a.m. Our local legislative delegation with both County and City officials invited the Commissioners to come to Aiken County. The Commissioners chose to come this month. The meeting is important in the continued efforts to improve traffic flow in areas around Aiken County. I will not be able to attend due to a family commitment but I have been in touch with members of the Commission this week.

Legislative Scorecard: SC BIPEC (South Carolina Business and Industry Political Education Committee) released its 2010 legislative scorecard. I was one of 10 members of the combined House and Senate (170 total) to score a 100 during the 2010 legislative session. The President of BIPEC wrote that this score shows “steadfast dedication to jobs creation and economic development and unyielding commitment to promoting and protecting a competitive free enterprise system.” You may review the scorecard by going to www.scbipec.com or by clicking here.

Other Legislative Scorecards: As reported in earlier updates this Fall, I received an “A” from the National Rifle Association (NRA); a “93” from the State Chamber of Commerce; a “100” from the Conservation Voters of South Carolina which promotes land conservation; and a “100” from the Palmetto Family Alliance which advocates for pro-family issues at the State House. The Alliance works to promote, protect, and preserve family values.

TRAC Commission Recommendations: The report from the Tax Realignment Commission is due to be released any day now. I will provide a link to it in the first update that I send after it is released. You may access material that the Commission has considered in its many meetings by going to the “Citizens’ Interest” page at www.scstatehouse.gov.

South Carolina Retirement System: As mentioned in earlier reports this Fall, the South Carolina Retirement System is being reviewed for its long term solvency. The solvency of nearly all other state pension systems is in question. Some states took action in their 2010 legislative sessions to address those issues. You may review a detailed report as to what others states have done by clicking here.

Thoroughbred Country Holiday Events: There are many holiday events taking place in Aiken, Barnwell, Bamberg, and Allendale Counties during the month of December. To see the list, click here. To learn more about Thoroughbred Country events, go to www.tbredcountry.org

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the unfunded liabilities in our state’s retirement system. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Aiken County Legislative Delegation: The next meeting is on Monday, January 10, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. at the Aiken County Council Chambers.

Aiken County Public Library: Check out the new digital branch library available through the Aiken County Public Library website (www.abbe-lib.org). This new service, powered by OverDrive, is free to Aiken Library patrons with a valid library card and password. You can browse the collection for audio books, eBooks and videos. You can also download the titles to PC, Mac, iPod, Sony Reader and many other mobile devices to enjoy immediately. Some audio titles can even be burned to CD to listen to on-the-go. At the end of the lending period, the titles automatically expire. The Library is able to offer this new service thanks to a federal Library Services and Technology grant, administered by the South Carolina State Library. NOTE: To get started, patrons need to download free OverDrive Media Console® and Adobe Digital Editions® software, which are available on the digital branch library’s website. For more information, call the Library at 642-2020.

Speaking In Schools: Last month, I was invited to speak to the 3rd grade students at East Aiken Elementary School. While there, I provided each of them a copy of the South Carolina symbols and emblems booklet. If you would like for me to speak with students in a local school, please let me know.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update –November 19 to November 23, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

Happy Thanksgiving!: Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! We have so much for which to be thankful. I hope that you and your family enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday.
Thanksgiving Events in Greater Aiken: Annual Thanksgiving events in Greater Aiken include the following:

Thursday, November 25
One Table
Time: 11am – 2pm
Place: The Alley
This Thanksgiving Dinner is open to the entire community. For more information, please visit www.onetable.org.

Thursday, November 25
Blessing of the Hounds
Time: 11am
This annual event opens the hunt season in Hitchcock Woods. Park by the Aiken County Historical Museum and enter the woods from South Boundary for a 20 minute walk to Memorial Gate. Children are welcome, but please, no pets. Call 803.643.DRAG for more information.

S.C. House of Representatives Met Last Week: The S.C. House met last Wednesday and Thursday morning for the organizational session which takes place every two years some time during the month following the November elections. I was appointed to the Judiciary Committee and the Election Laws Subcommittee of Judiciary. Other members of the Aiken County House of Representatives Legislative Delegation and their Committee appointments are as follows: Rep. Roland Smith – Ways and Means; Rep. Bill Clyburn – Ways and Means; Rep. Kit Spires – Medical, Military, and Municipal Affairs; Rep. Bill Hixon – Agriculture; Rep. Bill Taylor – Education and Public Works.

Workforce Reductions at Savannah River Site: SRNS, the largest employer at SRS, recently announced a reduction of up to 1,400 jobs at SRS. The reduction is to be accomplished through a combination of early retirement and voluntary and involuntary layoffs. The legislative delegation, county leaders, city leaders, and others are working hard on ways to help our area survive reductions like this at SRS. To learn more about the SRNS announcement, click here. To learn more about transition services available to those who may be affected, click here.

State Chamber of Commerce Competitiveness Agenda Released: The S.C. Chamber of Commerce released its annual “Competitiveness Agenda” last week for the upcoming 2011 legislative session. The agenda can be seen by clicking here.

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the unfunded liabilities in our state’s retirement system. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Speaking In Schools: Last month, I was invited to speak to the 3rd grade students at East Aiken Elementary School. While there, I provided each of them a copy of the South Carolina symbols and emblems booklet. If you would like for me to speak with students in a local school, please let me know.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update –November 9 to November 18, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 legislative session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

S.C. House of Representatives Meets this Week: The S.C. House met yesterday and today of this week for the organizational session which takes place every two years some time during the month following the November elections. There are 20 new House members after the November 2, 2010 elections – 17 Republicans and 3 Democrats. Out of 124 members, there are now 76 Republicans and 48 Democrats.

Election for Speaker of the House: The election for Speaker of the House took place today soon after the beginning of the organizational session. The candidates were the current Speaker Bobby Harrell from Charleston and Ralph Norman from Rock Hill. Speaker Harrell won reelection by a vote of 112 to 5. Everyone from Aiken County voted for Harrell. Norman, from York County, received 4 votes from York County and one vote from Lexington County.

My Vote for Speaker of the House: During the past two and a half months, I received requests from people in the district to vote for Harrell and requests to vote for Norman for various reasons. In deciding how I would vote, I did several things including the following:

• I talked with both candidates about their reasons for running and their plans to work with Governor-elect Haley to move our state forward.
• I considered the fact that during my two years in the House of Representatives with Harrell as Speaker, the House has passed a number of reform and restructuring bills only to see them fail in the Senate. Those bills included legislation to remove the power of the State Budget & Control Board; to increase transparency by requiring more on the record votes; to create a joint ticket with the governor and lieutenant governor; to have state constitutional officers appointed by the governor instead of up for election; to reform the tort system including limits on punitive damage awards; to ban texting while driving; and to require that those under 18 either stay in school or graduate early in order to have the privilege to drive.
• I verified that Governor-elect Haley does not have a public favorite, and I noticed the endorsement of Harrell by U.S. Senator Jim DeMint; Congressman Joe Wilson; Attorney General Henry McMaster; State Treasurer-elect Curtis Loftis; Congressman-elect Tim Scott; and immediate past State Republican Party Chairman Katon Dawson.
• I confirmed that Harrell will support and not oppose efforts to increase transparency in the coming session.
• I also sought the counsel and opinions of many people including other elected officials both in and around our district.
• I prayed about the decision, and I studied a number of issues both raised by the candidates and the people who contacted me about my vote.
• I considered issues that may impact our district and Aiken County in the next two years including redistricting of Congressional, Senate, and House districts and working with the Department of Commerce and the legislature both to attract new industry and to help existing businesses.

After carefully weighing all the positives and negatives of voting each way and considering the various reasons offered both for and against each candidate, I decided that the best decision for our district and Aiken County was for my vote to go with Speaker Harrell. While a few people may have preferred that I vote for Norman regardless of other factors simply out of disdain for Harrell, I am confident that I made the right decision. I hope that most people in our district who were interested in the Speaker’s race trust my judgment and recognize that my decision was not made in haste but was the product of careful consideration and reflection as to what is best for our district, Aiken County, and our state at this time.

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the unfunded liabilities in our state’s retirement system. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Aiken County Legislative Delegation: Our legislative delegation met on Monday, November 8. Rep. Roland Smith was elected Chairman and Sen. Greg Ryberg was elected Vice-Chairman. The next meeting is on Monday, January 10, 2011 at 5:00 p.m.

Technical Colleges: South Carolina has several technical colleges located around the state. These colleges are critical in preparing our state’s workforce for maintaining existing industry and attracting new companies to our state. Some interesting statistics about our S.C. Technical Colleges are as follows:

• 2008-2009 annualized total enrollment was 226,042;
• 52% of all undergraduates in SC public higher education were enrolled in a SC Technical College in Fall 2009;
• 97% of all students enrolled in SC Technical Colleges in Fall 2009 were SC residents;
• 85% of Technical College students remain in SC upon graduation.

Aiken County Veterans Affairs/Veterans Day: Last Thursday, November 11, on Veterans Day, I attended the service at the Aiken County Veterans’ Park. In addition, our legislative delegation received an annual report from Aiken County Veterans’ Affairs. A copy of that report can be seen by clicking here.

York Street Bridge in City of Aiken: The S.C. Department of Transportation (DOT) has informed me the DOT will replace the York Street bridge over the Norfolk Southern Railroad bed in downtown Aiken. They will provide more detailed information of the project schedule in the near future.

Congratulations to the Aiken High Volleyball Team!: Aiken High’s volleyball team won the State Championship the weekend before last after defeating Rock Hill. The team will be honored on February 2, 2011 at the State House when the players and coaches are recognized by the S.C. House of Representatives.

Celebrate Aiken! Photos Needed: To debut the results from Aiken’s Tomorrow: Local Acts-Global Impacts, the updated City of Aiken Strategic Plan, and in support of the grand finale Celebrate Aiken! Birthday Party to be held at the USCA Convocation Center from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 18th, 2010, the City of Aiken is asking citizens—whether pros or amateurs—to submit their photos to be considered for inclusion in super-sized birthday cards for Aiken’s turning 175 on December 19th, 2010 as well as an additional one for Aiken when it turns 200 on December 19th, 2035. Categories of photos for each card will be Aiken as a: Green City, Historic City, Family City, or as a Business City. Rules for submitting photos and the link to digitally upload your photos to be considered can be found at: http://www.cityofaikensc.gov/photo_submissions/
Deadline for submissions is midnight Sunday, November 21, 2010.
If you have questions, contact Richard Pearce at rpearce@cityofaikensc.gov or 642-7657.

Speaking In Schools: Last month, I was invited to speak to the 3rd grade students at East Aiken Elementary School. While there, I provided each of them a copy of the South Carolina symbols and emblems booklet. If you would like for me to speak with students in a local school, please let me know.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road-sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update –November 2 to November 8, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

Thank you!: Last week, I was reelected to serve as Representative for District 81 in the S.C. House. I am very grateful and honored for the opportunity to serve and I appreciate the support provided by so many people in the district.

Veterans Day: This Thursday, November 11, is Veterans Day. Please join me in thanking our veterans for their service and sacrifices which allow us to enjoy the freedoms and security with which we are blessed in the United States.

Legislative Forecast for 2011: Last week, I spoke to the First Friday Means Business monthly meeting sponsored by the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce. The focus of my presentation was to forecast some of the key legislation and issue areas that are expected to come up during the 2011 session of the General Assembly. A copy of my power point presentation can be seen by clicking here.

USC Aiken: Recently, Dr. Tom Hallman, Chancellor of USC Aiken, delivered his 2010 State of the Campus Address. Dr. Hallman noted that USCA is number one among public regional colleges in the South as ranked by US News and World Report; USCA will celebrate 50 years next year in 2011; and USCA has 3,247 students this Fall which represents one of the highest overall enrollment numbers for the school. A complete copy of the address can be seen by clicking here.

Congratulations to the Aiken High Volleyball Team!: Aiken High’s volleyball team won the State Championship this weekend after defeating Rock Hill. This is a great accomplishment. The team will be honored in the spring at the State House when the players and coaches are recognized by the S.C. House of Representatives.

Celebrate Aiken! Photos Needed: To debut the results from Aiken’s Tomorrow: Local Acts-Global Impacts, the updated City of Aiken Strategic Plan, and in support of the grande finale Celebrate Aiken! Birthday Party to be held at the USCA Convocation Center from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 18th, 2010, the City of Aiken is asking citizens—whether pros or amateurs—to submit their photos to be considered for inclusion in super-sized birthday cards we will be preparing for Aiken turning 175 on December 19th, 2010 as well as an additional one for Aiken when it turns 200 on December 19th, 2035. Categories of photos for each card will be Aiken as a: Green City, Historic City, Family City, or as a Business City.
Rules for submitting photos and the link to digitally upload your photos to be considered can be found at: http://www.cityofaikensc.gov/photo_submissions/
Deadline for photo submissions is midnight Sunday, November 21, 2010.
If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail Richard Pearce at rpearce@cityofaikensc.gov or 642-7657.

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the unfunded liabilities in our state’s retirement system. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Speaking In Schools: Last month, I was invited to speak to the 3rd grade students at East Aiken Elementary School. While there, I provided each of them a copy of the South Carolina symbols and emblems booklet. If you would like for me to speak with students in a local school, please let me know.
Speaking to Groups Around the District: Several local groups have asked me to attend one of their meetings to provide an end of session report to their members. If you have a group that would like for me to come to a meeting, please let me know. I recently spoke with members of the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce.

Frequency of My Updates: Since the legislature is not in session, my updates will not come every Monday as they do during session. I will strive to provide an update each week. However, there may be some weeks where I combine two weeks of updates into one. The frequency will be back to every week when the legislature reconvenes in January.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update – October 26 to November 1, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

Vote Tomorrow!: Please remember to vote tomorrow (Tuesday, November 2) on election day if you have not yet voted by absentee ballot.

State Constitutional Amendments on Election Ballot on Election Day: Next week, on November 2, four constitutional amendments will be considered by all of those voting in South Carolina. For a look at what those amendments are, please click here: http://www.scvotes.org/2010/07/27/2010_constitutional_amendment_questions

Restructuring/Secretary of State: At the beginning of the 2009 session, I filed several restructuring reform bills including legislation to allow South Carolina voters to decide whether to amend the State Constitution so that certain constitutional officers who are currently popularly elected would in the future be appointed by the Governor as part of the Governor’s cabinet. The bill concerning the Secretary of State was the first to reach the House floor for a vote. Two thirds of the House (83 votes) had to approve the bill. In late February 2010, the bill passed with 85 votes. It headed to the Senate where it died. In today’s Charleston paper, there is an editorial calling on the General Assembly to do just what my bill attempted to do. To see the article, click here. I plan to file the same bill again this coming session.

Kimberly-Clark: Kimberly-Clark Corp. operates its largest plant in North America here in Aiken County in Beech Island. The plant employs approximately 1,800 people. Last week, Kimberly-Clark announced its plans for its tube fee toilet paper which is being made right here in Aiken County by local residents working at the plant. The article can be seen from USA Today last week by clicking here.

Other Funds Money in State Budget: As many of you know from my presentations around the district, the State Budget is made up of General Funds, Federal Funds, and Other Funds appropriations. In this year’s state budget, the General Funds appropriations were about $5.1 Billion; the Federal Funds appropriations were about $8.3 Billion; and the Other Funds appropriations were $7.765 Billion. Generally speaking, Other Funds are made up largely of fines, fees, and other revenues that the State receives or collects which are not General Funds or Federal Funds. My understanding from Ways and Means staff is that because of state accounting practices, some Federal Funds are reported as Other Funds. For example, the State Department of Transportation reports Federal Funds from the federal gas tax as Other Funds. One area of reform that I am pushing with other legislators is for greater scrutiny of how agencies spend their Other Funds appropriations. To see a breakdown of Other Funds monies by agency in this year’s budget, click here.

Aiken County Public Library: Check out the new digital branch library available through the Aiken County Public Library website (www.abbe-lib.org). This new service, powered by OverDrive, is free to Aiken Library patrons with a valid library card and password. You can browse the collection for audio books, eBooks and videos. You can also download the titles to PC, Mac, iPod, Sony Reader and many other mobile devices to enjoy immediately. Some audio titles can even be burned to CD to listen to on-the-go. At the end of the lending period, the titles automatically expire. The Library is able to offer this new service thanks to a federal Library Services and Technology grant, administered by the South Carolina State Library. NOTE: To get started, patrons need to download free OverDrive Media Console® and Adobe Digital Editions® software, which are available on the digital branch library’s website. For more information, call the Library at 642-2020.

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the underfund liabilities in our state’s retirement systems. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Speaking In Schools: Last month, I was invited to speak to the 3rd grade students at East Aiken Elementary School. While there, I provided each of them a copy of the South Carolina symbols and emblems booklet. If you would like for me to speak with students in a local school, please let me know.

Speaking to Groups Around the District: Several local groups have asked me to attend one of their meetings to provide an end of session report to their members. If you have a group that would like for me to come to a meeting during the next few months, please let me know. I am scheduled to speak with the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce on November 5.

Frequency of My Updates: Since the legislature is not in session, my updates will not come every Monday as they do during session. I will strive to provide an update each week. However, there may be some weeks where I combine two weeks of updates into one. The frequency will be back to every week when the legislature reconvenes in January.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update – October 14 to October 25, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

State Retirement System Basics: The S.C. Retirement System has five defined benefit plans. Membership consists of 232,000 active members and 118,000 retired members. Over $2 Billion is disbursed annually within the system. A number of employers participate in the System including State Government; public school districts; higher education institutions; local governments; and quasi-governmental organizations like Santee Cooper. The trust funds of the System are separate from the State General Fund, but if the state is called upon to make up a deficiency and fulfill its commitments to retirees, then the demand will fall upon the general fund and the state’s taxpayers.

State Retirement System Roundtable Discussion: Last week, I attended a Roundtable discussion on the State Retirement System in Columbia. Attendees received a report from the Director of the State Retirement System (available here); the Director of the State Retirement Systems Investment Commission (available here); and a national pension fund expert from the Northwestern University School of Business (available here). There was a spirited debate as to the extent of the unfunded liabilities in the state pension system. The System’s Director said that the unfunded liability is approximately $11 Billion and that the real issue that has to be dealt with in our state is the expense of cost of living adjustments in the retirement plan. On the other hand, the professor from Northwestern stated that the unfunded liabilities exceed $53 Billion. The State’s investment director said that 3% of the state’s investment portfolio is paid out in benefits each year and that it is probably unrealistic to expect an 8% annualized return on investments. Other attendees noted that the top 100 private pension funds in the U.S. have an annualized rate of return of 6.36%. There is resistance to moving from a defined benefit plan like we have now for most retirees and current state employees to a defined contribution plan for most, if not all, new hires. Other ways to address the problem include, but are not limited to, increasing the number of years of service necessary for retirement; increasing the number of years used to calculate a member’s average final compensation; and eliminating the use of sick leave, annual leave, and overtime pay in the calculation of a member’s average final compensation.

State Retirement System — Research Reports: In my research on the South Carolina Retirement System, I found some interesting past reports. First, the Strom Thurmond Institute at Clemson study from 1997 predicted that the unfunded liabilities by 2010 would exceed $6 Billion. That report can be seen by clicking here. Second, the GEAR Report from 2007 in state government recommended four measures to be implemented to address the unfunded liabilities in the system. The retirement system portion of that report can be accessed by clicking here. Finally, the National Association of State Retirement Administrators recently produced a position paper to critique the analysis provided by the Northwestern University professor who spoke at last week’s Roundtable discussion. That can be seen here.

My Observations on State Retirement System Issues: As you can see from the above, there are substantial differences in opinion as to (1) the extent of the problem here in South Carolina and (2) the solutions to the problem. It is important to note that South Carolina is not alone: Many other state and local governments are facing the same issues. It is critical that we recognize that, for the long term, this is a significant problem that those in my generation in our state will have to face. Now is the time to identify the problems; to discuss the issues; and to craft solutions. I am not convinced that we do not have a problem which does not deserve attention. The Thurmond Institute Report from 1997 predicted a shortfall of $6.28 Billion in the System by 2010. Last week’s Roundtable presentations show that the shortfall is at least $11 Billion despite changes that were made by the legislature in 2005 and 2008. Hence, I am studying available information; listening to concerned citizens; and working on ways with other elected officials to address these problems for the long term. If you have any input that you would like for me to consider, please let me know.

State Constitutional Amendments on Election Ballot on Election Day: Next week, on November 2, four constitutional amendments will be considered by all of those voting in South Carolina. For a look at what those amendments are, please click here: http://www.scvotes.org/2010/07/27/2010_constitutional_amendment_questions

Legislative Scorecards: Some groups have issued their legislative scorecards in recent weeks. For example, I received an “A” from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and a “100” from the Palmetto Family Alliance which advocates for pro-family issues at the State House. The Alliance works to promote, protect, and preserve family values. A copy of the Alliance’s report can be accessed by clicking here.

Aiken County Public Library: Check out the new digital branch library available through the Aiken County Public Library website (www.abbe-lib.org). This new service, powered by OverDrive, is free to Aiken Library patrons with a valid library card and password. You can browse the collection for audio books, eBooks and videos. You can also download the titles to PC, Mac, iPod, Sony Reader and many other mobile devices to enjoy immediately. Some audio titles can even be burned to CD to listen to on-the-go. At the end of the lending period, the titles automatically expire. The Library is able to offer this new service thanks to a federal Library Services and Technology grant, administered by the South Carolina State Library. NOTE: To get started, patrons need to download free OverDrive Media Console® and Adobe Digital Editions® software, which are available on the digital branch library’s website. You can also receive library e-news in your e-mail with another new service. Choose the types of information you want to keep up-to-date with library events, kid’s activities, or new materials available for borrowing. Visit www.abbe-lib.org/abbeinfo for more information or to subscribe now. For more information, call the Library at 642-2020.

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the unfunded liabilities in our state’s retirement systems. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Speaking In Schools: Earlier this month, I was invited to speak to the 3rd grade students at East Aiken Elementary School. While there, I provided each of them a copy of the South Carolina symbols and emblems booklet. If you would like for me to speak with students in a local school, please let me know.
Speaking to Groups Around the District: Several local groups have asked me to attend one of their meetings to provide an end of session report to their members. If you have a group that would like for me to come to a meeting during the next few months, please let me know. Recently, I spoke to the Aiken Sertoma Club, and I am scheduled to speak with the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce on November 5.

Frequency of My Updates: Since the legislature is not in session, my updates will not come every Monday as they do during session. I will strive to provide an update each week. However, there may be some weeks where I combine two weeks of updates into one. The frequency will be back to every week when the legislature reconvenes in January.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In general terms, most paved roads in the County are maintained by SCDOT and are identified on the road- sign poles by a small black and white sign listing the road number, such as S-2-1669. On the other hand, nearly all unpaved roads in the County are maintained by the County.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.

Update – October 6 to October 13, 2010

The House of Representatives has adjourned for the 2010 session. I hope that you find this update helpful and informative:

South Carolina Receives High Rankings for Business Climate: South Carolina is rated in the Top 10 in America in 15 business category rankings according to a recent report in Business Facilities Magazine. South Carolina ranked #1 in “Economic Growth Potential” and #4 in “Best Business Climate.” To read the article, please click here.

House Republican Agenda for 2011: The House Republican Caucus unveiled a portion of its 2011 legislative session earlier this week as follows:

• Building Trust by Increasing Transparency: Last year, the House passed the on the record voting bill and it stalled in the Senate. The House Republicans will work to pass this again.
• Securing our State’s Finances with Spending Limits: The House Republicans will work to approve, for the sixth time in 15 years, spending caps for South Carolina’s budget.
• Securing our Elections by Requiring a Photo ID: Four out of five South Carolinians support showing a photo ID to prove who they are when they vote. The House passed this last year and House Republicans will work to do that again.
• Fighting Illegal Immigration: The House Republicans will work to further strengthen the 2008 immigration legislation which the General Assembly passed.
• Passing Tort Reform Legislation: Last year, the House passed a comprehensive tort reform bill which stalled in the Senate. House Republicans will work to pass a similar bill again this coming session.

State Retirement System: There will be a Roundtable discussion on the State Retirement System Retirement on Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 252 of the Edgar Brown Building on the Statehouse grounds in Columbia. I plan to attend and the public is invited.

Speaking In Schools: On Thursday of last week, I was invited to speak to the 3rd grade students at East Aiken Elementary School. While there, I provided each of them a copy of the South Carolina symbols and emblems booklet. If you would like for me to speak with students in a local school, please let me know.

Christ Central Ministries: In recent weeks, I have written several times about the problems presented by generational poverty in our community and state. In those earlier reports, I provided information on volunteer efforts that can be made by concerned citizens to assist through Children’s Place and by volunteering in the local schools. Another organization which is doing good work in our community to combat the problems associated with generational poverty is Christ Central Ministries. Last week, I visited the Mentoring Center which Christ Central operates at Memorial Baptist Church; its facility near the new Wal Mart on Richland Avenue; and its new facility which it will open in Graniteville in November. To volunteer with Christ Central, please contact Judy Floyd at (803) 640-1708, Pat Sauls at (803) 257-3013, or visit the website, www.christcentralaiken.com, for more information including obtaining a volunteer application.

State Constitutional Amendments on Election Ballot on Election Day: On November 2, four constitutional amendments will be considered by all of those voting in South Carolina. For a look at what those amendments are, please click here: http://www.scvotes.org/2010/07/27/2010_constitutional_amendment_questions

Planning for the 2011 Legislative Session: The 2011 legislative session will convene on the second Tuesday in January. I am seeking input from constituents on the critical issues facing our state and area including tax reform; spending reform; K-12 education; the costs of higher education; health care; immigration; economic development; job growth; and the underfund liabilities in our state’s retirement systems. Your input is welcome on any issue important to you. Please email me back or contact me by phone or in person at your convenience.

Aiken High School Band Booster Club Fundraiser: The Aiken High School – Band Booster Club is sponsoring “A Night of Jazz”; Dinner, Music by the AHS Jazz Band, Dancing, and a Silent Auction on Thursday, October 21, at 6:00 pm at the Municipal Building in The Alley. Tickets are $35 each and are available at the Band website www.aikenbands.tk or by calling 641-9614, 642-2836 or 648-4733.

Frequency of My Updates: Since the legislature is not in session, my updates will not come every Monday as they do during session. I will strive to provide an update each week. However, there may be some weeks where I combine two weeks of updates into one. The frequency will be back to every week when the legislature reconvenes in January.

Speaking to Groups Around the District: Several local groups have asked me to attend one of their meetings to provide an end of session report to their members. If you have a group that would like for me to come to a meeting during the next few months, please let me know. Recently, I spoke to the Aiken Sertoma Club.

Email Updates: Many people in District 81 are receiving this email update. However, there are many others who do not receive them because I do not know their email addresses. If you know of people who do not receive my updates but they would like to, please email their names and email addresses to me.

Road Issues: If you see a road problem, you can call the SCDOT at 641-7665 or Aiken County at 642-1532 to report the problem. If you do not get a prompt response, please let me know at TomYoung@schouse.gov or call me. In the past nine months, I have received many different reports of problems and I have relayed those to the appropriate agencies.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Please let me know if I can help you in any way or if you have questions about these or other issues. Your feedback is meaningful and appreciated.