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Governor Henry McMaster named Dr. Brannon Traxler as the acting director of the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH). 

Traxler currently serves as deputy director of Health Promotion and Services & Chief Medical Officer for DPH and has over 18 years of experience in medicine and public health. 

“Dr. Traxler has spent her career improving the well-being of the people of South Carolina and has earned the trust and respect of those she has worked alongside,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “Her experience in medicine, surgery, and public health leadership gives her a strong understanding of the challenges facing our state and the expertise needed to lead the Department of Public Health.”

Previously, Traxler served in several public health leadership roles at the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, including Director of Public Health, Interim Director of Public Health, and Physician Medical Consultant. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she also served as Chief Medical Officer to South Carolina’s emergency response.

Traxler is a 2004 graduate of Clemson University, holds her Master of Public Health from George Washington University, and earned a medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. 

She completed a breast surgery fellowship at Emory University and completed her general surgery residency at Greenville Health System.

Traxler was scheduled to begin working as acting director of DPH, Friday, May 15, 2026, and will continue serving in that capacity until a new director is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the South Carolina Senate. 

Source: Greenville Business Magazine

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By Doug Green

“Today marks a major milestone for Airsys as we establish our global headquarters here in Woodruff, South Carolina,” said Yunshui Chen, founder and CEO of Airsys. “This investment reflects our commitment to advancing cooling innovation across the entire spectrum of mission-critical infrastructure.”

Airsys has officially opened its new global headquarters campus in Woodruff, South Carolina, establishing a U.S. hub for manufacturing, engineering and corporate leadership as demand grows for cooling systems that support AI, data centers and high-performing digital infrastructure.

The 60-acre campus represents a $60 million investment in the region and is expected to create 215 new jobs. Manufacturing at the site is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027. The facility is designed to support Airsys’ work in high-efficiency, zero-water cooling technologies, including air, liquid and hybrid systems for mission-critical environments.

For data center operators, the announcement reflects a broader infrastructure challenge: AI growth is increasing power and cooling demands, while customers look for ways to improve efficiency, resiliency and sustainability. Airsys said the new campus will help accelerate the delivery of next-generation thermal management and liquid cooling solutions for high-density AI workloads and edge infrastructure.

The company is also emphasizing Power Compute Effectiveness, or PCE, a framework that looks at how much provisioned power in a data center is structurally available for IT compute after accounting for cooling, electrical losses and auxiliary systems.

“South Carolina has a long history of manufacturing excellence, and Airsys’ decision to anchor its global headquarters right here in the Upstate is a testament to our state’s world-class workforce and pro-business environment,” said South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster.

By localizing production and engineering in South Carolina, Airsys said it is positioning operations closer to North American customers while strengthening supply chain resilience and quality control for customers operating critical infrastructure.

Airsys serves data center, AI, edge computing, telecom, medical imaging and advanced manufacturing environments. The company has more than 30 years of experience in mission-critical cooling and supports its global operations with more than 1,000 employees across 16 locations.

Learn more: airsysnorthamerica.com

Source: Telecommreseller.com

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Charleston-Based Manufacturer Recognized for Expanding American-Made Waterfront Infrastructure Systems Across International Markets

CHARLESTON, S.C., May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As global demand grows for durable waterfront infrastructure, Dock Blocks™ of North America is bringing American marine innovation to waterfronts around the world.

The Charleston-based manufacturer of modular floating dock systems and drive-on boat lifts has been named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2026 Small Business Exporter of the Year for South Carolina, recognizing the company’s continued international expansion and growing export footprint across the Caribbean and Central America during its milestone 15th anniversary year.

Dock Blocks™ designs and manufactures patented modular floating dock systems, drive-on docking systems, and commercial floating platform systems used across residential, marina, government, military, and industrial waterfront applications. Through a growing international dealer and installer network, the company exports its U.S.-manufactured floating dock systems to markets throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, including the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama.

“Over the past 15 years, we’ve focused on building innovative marine infrastructure systems that can perform in demanding waterfront environments anywhere in the world,” said Matt West, CEO of Dock Blocks™ of North America. “Being recognized as Exporter of the Year reflects the growing global demand for durable, modular waterfront solutions and proves that American manufacturing can compete on an international stage.”

The company’s floating dock solutions for marinas, government agencies, commercial waterfronts, and residential markets are designed for long-term durability, configurability, and ease of installation in challenging marine environments. Its product portfolio includes modular docks, floating platforms, PWC docking systems, and boat lift alternatives engineered for marina infrastructure, emergency response, marine law enforcement, and waterfront recreation applications.

Manufactured in the United States through an ISO-certified production process, Dock Blocks™ products support a broad range of global marine infrastructure and Caribbean marina development projects while reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to U.S. manufacturing and supply chain resilience.

Founded in Charleston, South Carolina, Dock Blocks™ has spent the past 15 years expanding its presence across residential, commercial, marina, and government marine infrastructure markets while growing into an exporter of modular marine infrastructure systems serving waterfront projects throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.

ABOUT DOCK BLOCKS™ OF NORTH AMERICA

Dock Blocks™ of North America is a Charleston, South Carolina-based modular floating dock manufacturer celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2026. The company designs and manufactures patented modular floating dock systems, drive-on docking systems, and commercial floating platform systems for residential, marina, government, military, and industrial applications. Its U.S.-manufactured marine infrastructure products are exported throughout the Caribbean and Latin America for use in marina developments, waterfront.

Source: Dock Blocks

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BY  ALLISSA YOUNG

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) has awarded grant funding to four South Carolina-based technology companies while adding two additional startups to its member network.

SCRA announced that Tada AI received a $50,000 acceleration grant, while CAMA Security, Pathly and Vet Media Group each received $25,000 startup grants.

The organization also accepted Baysys Solutions and Digital Site Box as member companies.

SCRA President and CEO Bill Kirkland said the organization welcomes the new member companies and congratulates the businesses receiving funding.

Tada AI, based in Rock Hill, developed an automation platform that uses artificial intelligence to reduce manual data entry and streamline payroll, human resources and back-office operations.

CAMA Security, headquartered on Sullivans Island, provides cybersecurity technology designed to protect embedded systems and internet-connected devices from cyberattacks and firmware tampering.

Lancaster-based Pathly created an AI-powered platform aimed at helping high school students explore career paths and develop post-graduation plans through assessments and planning tools.

Vet Media Group, based in Piedmont, operates an educational platform for veterinarians that includes video training and an AI-powered veterinary medicine research library.

New member company Baysys Solutions focuses on technology-driven logistics tools for the trucking and intermodal transportation industries, while Digital Site Box offers a cloud-based construction management platform designed to modernize job site communication and document storage.

According to SCRA, member companies receive access to startup resources, coaching opportunities and eligibility for future grant funding and investment consideration through its affiliate, SC Launch Inc.

SCRA’s grant funding is supported in part through its Industry Partnership Fund, which offers contributors dollar-for-dollar state tax credits intended to support South Carolina’s innovation economy and job growth.

Source: Spectrum Local News

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By Ashley Craig, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO – Airman Gabriel White, a native of Summerville, South Carolina, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to USS Theodore Roosevelt, a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier operating out of San Diego, California.

White graduated from Berkeley High School in 2021. 

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Summerville.

“Playing high school baseball back home taught me discipline and character,” White said. “Having jobs in different fields taught me how to adapt and get comfortable being uncomfortable. That’s especially helpful coming straight out of boot camp because I’m now on a carrier with 5,000 people. Knowing how to adapt to this new lifestyle has helped me not be nervous or afraid to fail. When we were learning the ship, a lot of people were scared to walk around or scared to mess up and do the wrong thing. But losing and failing are more beneficial than not trying at all because even when you fail, you’ve learned something.”

White joined the Navy six months ago. Today, White serves as an undesignated sailor in the Airman Professional Apprenticeship Career Track (A/PACT) program.

“I was inspired to join the Navy by my family, specifically my grandfather, Lt. Harley Perry, who raised me,” White said. “He was in the Navy for 26 years, enlisted and then commissioned. He served on submarines. I saw the great impact it had on myself and my family.”

Aircraft carriers are the centerpiece of America’s naval forces. For more than 100 years, they have projected power, sustained sea control, bolstered deterrence, provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maintained enduring commitments worldwide. 

Among the largest warships in the world, Theodore Roosevelt is longer than three football fields at 1,092 feet. The ship is 252 feet wide and weighs more than 100,000 tons. More than 5,000 sailors serve aboard these self-contained mobile airports. 

“This aircraft carrier is one of the most powerful warships in the world, but it is our sailors that give the U.S. Navy our warfighting advantage,” said Capt. Will Mathis, commanding officer of Theodore Roosevelt. “For over 250 years, sailors have built the foundation of our readiness and resolve, enabled us to keep America safe and ensured the U.S. Navy remains the strongest and most capable maritime force in the world.”

According to Navy officials, aircraft carriers are versatile and have unique mission capabilities that make them a more strategic asset for the Navy than fixed-site bases. They are often the first response in a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s oceans. In addition, no other weapon system can deploy and operate forward with a full-sized aircraft carrier’s speed, endurance, agility and combat capability of its air wing. 

White has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. 

“I am proud to be a go-to guy for my chain of command and that they trust me with tasks to make operations smoother,” White said. “I haven’t been here long enough to get Sailor of the Quarter, but it makes me feel good to know I was able to step into that role for them, being a junior sailor. They trust me with naval operations, and it makes me feel good that they look at me that way.”

This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. 

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber-optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

“Serving not only provides freedom to the people I love but also fuels me with purpose day in and day out,” White said.

White is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my amazing family for the way they raised me and support me,” White said. “I couldn’t be more thankful. My grandparents raised me and my sister after our parents died when we were young. They sacrificed a lot. Raising my parents and then raising us was kind of like restarting for them.”

Photo Credit Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Caleb Kissner,
Navy Office of Community Outreach

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By Mark A Leon

A new wave of bakery culture is arriving at Carnes Crossroads (2601 N Main St, Suite G
Summerville SC 29486), bringing with it the aroma of freshly baked artisan breads, delicate pastries, handcrafted cakes, and rich espresso beverages that have made TOUS les JOURS an international favorite. Blending French-inspired baking traditions with Asian café influences, TOUS les JOURS is preparing to offer the local community far more than a quick coffee stop — it is creating a warm, modern gathering place designed for every generation to enjoy.

Known worldwide for its commitment to premium ingredients and daily freshness, TOUS les JOURS has built a loyal following through its signature lineup of buttery croissants, soft sweet and savory buns, handcrafted donuts, and seasonal bakery specialties prepared fresh each day. At the heart of the experience are the brand’s celebrated cakes and desserts, including airy cloud cakes, elegant mousse cakes, rich buttercream creations, and beautifully crafted individual pastries that have become staples for celebrations and everyday indulgence alike.

The Carnes Crossroads location will feature a stylish and welcoming café atmosphere where guests can settle in with specialty espresso drinks, signature lattes, teas, smoothies, and blended beverages while enjoying an assortment of freshly prepared sandwiches and convenient grab-and-go offerings. Whether stopping in for a morning pastry, an afternoon coffee break, or dessert with family and friends, visitors can expect an elevated bakery café experience centered around comfort, hospitality, and craftsmanship.

As Charleston’s food scene continues to grow, TOUS les JOURS brings a fresh new energy to the region — combining international flavors, artisanal baking, and café culture into a destination that is poised to quickly become a favorite gathering spot in Carnes Crossroads.

What will you expect from your visit:

Bakery Items

• Fresh baked breads made daily
• Croissants and pastries
• Sweet and savory buns
• Donuts and seasonal bakery items

Cakes & Desserts

• Buttercream cakes
• Cloud cakes
• Mousse cakes
• Individual desserts and pastries

Coffee & Beverages

• Espresso drinks
• Signature lattes
• Tea beverages
• Smoothies and blended drinks

Food Items

• Sandwiches
• Grab-and-go items

Follow Tous les Jours on Instagram or via Website for more information on the big opening!

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Newmark is a leading commercial real estate advisory firm with a highly regarded Hospitality, Gaming & Leisure practice specializing in valuation services and hotel market intelligence. The firm produces comprehensive hotel market analyses that track key performance indicators such as occupancy, RevPAR, investment activity, and broader industry trends, making its reports widely respected benchmarks for hospitality market health and performance.

Within the hospitality sector, Newmark analyzed 104 U.S. hotel markets, with Charleston, South Carolina ranking #26 nationally. Below are several key insights from the report, along with the full analysis outlining the current health and trajectory of the Charleston hotel market.

Key Takeaways

Charleston, SC is currently classified in the Expansion Stage, defined as:
“Hotels are performing well and contributing to a resilient economy that has fully emerged from the pandemic environment. Displacement demand remains strong, new hotel development is feasible, and the broader economy continues to expand.” Comparable markets in this category include Anaheim, Atlanta, and Austin.

Charleston continues to outperform national averages in both upscale and luxury lodging segments.

Key Strengths

• Favorable market conditions for upscale and luxury lodging (#14 nationally)
• Strong earnings per sold room (#17)
• Robust overall economic fundamentals (#7)
• Limited new room supply growth (#20)
• Low short-term historical supply growth (#21)

Areas for Improvement

• Low population density relative to hotel room supply (#94)
• Elevated hotel booking costs (#87)
• High short-term rental booking costs (#103)
• Weak short-term historical average length-of-stay growth (#95)
• High long-term historical supply growth (#93)

This analysis evaluates hotel performance across both Charleston and Berkeley Counties.

Note: A total of 104 U.S. markets were included in this study.

Click HERE for full report and analysis

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WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard today awarded two contracts that will deliver critical new operational and support facilities at Base Charleston in North Charleston, South Carolina. These projects support the Coast Guard’s transformation initiatives and will deliver critical new operational and support facilities to the expanding base.

One contract, awarded to The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company of Greenbelt, Maryland and executed by the U.S. Coast Guard Facilities Design and Construction Center in Norfolk, Virginia, is for the full recapitalization of Base Charleston’s Pier Mike. This $116.7 million, fixed-price, design-build project includes demolition of the existing pier and replacing it with a state-of-the-art structure designed to homeport four Offshore Patrol Cutters (OPCs) and one visiting cutter. Each berth will also be capable of mooring National Security Cutters, providing significant strategic flexibility for the fleet. Contract completion is expected in 2030.

The second contract has been awarded to Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC of Birmingham, Alabama for the design and construction of a new 30,000-square-foot combined medical and dental facility, a new entry control point/visitor’s center and various supporting utilities at Base Charleston. This $95.5 million project is a major step forward in increasing personnel readiness through improved access to medical and dental care, ensuring crews receive necessary support to sustain mission readiness. Contract completion is expected by July 2029.

Both contracts were awarded under the Department of Homeland Security’s National Multiple Award Construction Contract III and were made possible by the Coast Guard’s historic $25 billion investment included in the Working Families’ Tax Cut Act.

“I am excited for the incredible potential these projects have to improve the welfare of our Servicemembers and their families, to homeport our future fleet of Offshore Patrol Cutters and to operationalize the generous investments being made in our Service by the American people,” said Vice Admiral Jo-Ann Burdian, commander of Coast Guard Atlantic Area. “Our people are our greatest asset, and everything we do on their behalf, to ensure they are ready, trained and well-supported will enable us to act with clarity, cohesion, and purpose to deliver the outcomes our Nation expects.”

The Pier Mike project follows Whiting-Turner’s successful demolition and ongoing reconstruction of the nearby Pier November. This adjacent project is progressing on time and on budget.

For media inquiries contact mediarelations@uscg.mil.  

###

About the U.S. Coast Guard 
With more than 95,000 miles of shoreline, 25,000 miles of navigable rivers and 4.5 million square miles of U.S. exclusive economic zone, the U.S. Coast Guard defends the Nation, protects the marine transportation system, regulates and safeguards ports and waterways, leads the Nation in maritime drug interdiction and secures the maritime border. As a member of the joint force, a law enforcement organization, a regulatory agency and a member of the U.S. intelligence community, the Coast Guard employs a unique mix of authorities to ensure the safety and integrity of the maritime domain to protect the economic and national security of the nation. More than 76,000 members of the Coast Guard operate a multi-mission, interoperable fleet of more than 220 cutters, 185 fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, 1,300 boats and its own dedicated cyber command to protect critical maritime infrastructure.

More information about the U.S. Coast Guard can be found at www.uscg.mil Follow @USCG on X and Instagram, like us on Facebook, subscribe on YouTube and follow LinkedIn—connect with us.

Make a difference on land, at sea or in the air with the Coast Guard. Visit GoCoastGuard.com to find out how to be part of our team.

Source: U.S. Coast Guard News

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Weekend Passes and Special Event Tickets Go on Sale Today For Third Annual Culinary Festival

Tyler Florence, Maneet Chauhan, Andrew Zimmern, Nancy Silverton, Katie Button, Rick Martinez, Ana Castro, and More Will Headline This Year’s Event

CHARLESTON, SC  – May 13, 2026 – Tickets are on sale now for the highly anticipated third annual Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, hosted by Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, and Southern Living, and presented by Explore Charleston. Taking place November 13–15, 2026, the Classic in Charleston has quickly become one of the most influential culinary events in the country, pairing world-class chefs, beverage experts and celebrated personalities with Charleston’s signature Lowcountry talent and hospitality. 

Attendees will experience three days of unparalleled culinary experiences unique to Charleston, including over 40 seminars, immersive cooking demonstrations, wine and spirits tastings, and panel discussions led by culinary stars and beverage experts including Tiffanie Barriere, Katie Button, Ana Castro, Maneet Chauhan, Julia Coney, Tyler Florence, Anthony Giglio, Rick Martinez, Amanda McCrossin, Justin Pichetrungsi, June Rodil, Nancy Silverton, Sarah Thomas, and Andrew Zimmern, alongside acclaimed local talent including Mike Lata, James London, Miles White, and Femi Oyediran.

The weekend also includes the famed Grand Tasting, featuring more than 100 winemakers, distillers, and purveyors serving wine, spirits, and global cuisine from a standout lineup of Charleston-area restaurants.

Tickets on sale now, include the Weekend Consumer Pass (November 13–15, 2026), as well as a selection of additional ticketed events available to passholders, including the Southern Living Lowcountry Tailgate, the Pearls of the Coast Oyster Roast hosted by Travel + Leisure and Food & Wine, and new immersive experiences, including history and garden tours. 

Travel + Leisure and Food & Wine Present Pearls of the Coast Oyster Roast: Friday, November 13, 2026

Guests will savor live-fire roasted oysters, an abundant raw bar, expertly crafted cocktails, and a curated selection of fine wines, all set to the backdrop of live music under the stars. 

Southern Living Lowcountry Tailgate at the Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston: Saturday, November 14, 2026

Southern Living throws the ultimate college football tailgate, hosted by Editor in Chief Sid Evans. The third annual Lowcountry Tailgate takes over a new location at the iconic Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston for an unforgettable evening beneath the oaks. The event will feature Maneet Chauhan, George Motz, Robbie Robinson, Elliott Moss and Lewis Donald. Rooted in tradition and rich with Lowcountry flavor, the experience features live music, expertly-crafted cocktails, and exceptional Southern fare — including barbecue from some of the region’s top pitmasters.

Sea to Table: Crabbing & Cooking in the Lowcountry: November 13–15, 2026

Dive into the coastal charm and culinary delights of Charleston with a crabbing expedition and intimate culinary experience, hosted by a Travel + Leisure editor. The adventure begins on the scenic docks of the Ashley River, with local food and beverage expert Tia Clark of Casual Crabbing with Tia. Attendees will learn the fundamentals of casting a net and get hands-on with baiting and crabbing. Then, end their experience from sea to table with lunch hosted by Charleston’s top chefs alongside an editor from Travel + Leisure.

New Immersive Experiences:

A new series of events, hosted by Travel + Leisure, invites guests into unique experiences across Charleston, showcasing the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and coastal character.

• Lowcountry Oyster Farm Tour on November 12, 2026
• South of Broad Unlocked: Homes & Gardens Tour on November 12, 2026
• The American Revolution in Charleston on November 15, 2026
• Charleston Harbor Boat Tour on November 15, 2026

Weekend Consumer Passes and special events tickets, along with full details on festival programming, participating talent, and travel information, are available at foodandwineclassicincharleston.com. 

Explore Charleston is the Presenting Sponsor of the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston 2026, with additional sponsors includingAmerican Express and Resy, Discover South Carolina, Lexus, and S.Pellegrino.

ABOUT FOOD & WINE

Food & Wine, the ultimate culinary authority, celebrates the global epicurean experience through its magazine, website, social platforms, newsletters, podcasts, premium events such as the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, and accolades like its annual Best New Chef awards. With rigorously tested recipes and the most trusted restaurant, drinks, culinary travel, and home coverage, the brand inspires and empowers people to discover, create, and devour the best in food and drink—every day and everywhere. Food & Wine is part of the People Inc. publishing family.

ABOUT SOUTHERN LIVING

Southern Living celebrates the essence of life in the South, covering the best in Southern food, homes, gardens and travel. Southern Living connects consumers to the region’s rich culture through a robust multi-platform presence, including print, digital, social, and events, as well as its Biscuits & Jam and Ask Grumpy podcasts and many licensing partnerships. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Southern Living is part of People Inc.

ABOUT TRAVEL + LEISURE

Travel + Leisure is the preeminent voice for the sophisticated traveler, serving up expert intelligence and the most immersive travel lifestyle content anywhere. Travel + Leisure captures the joy of discovering the cultural pleasures the world has to offer, from art and design to shopping and style to food and drink. Travel + Leisure connects with its audience across platforms including the U.S. flagship and seven international print editions, digital channels, the annual World’s Best franchise and more. Launched in 1971, Travel + Leisure is part of the People Inc. publishing family and is owned by Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE: TNL).

ABOUT EXPLORE CHARLESTON

Explore Charleston is a 501c6 destination marketing and management organization (DMMO) representing 12 municipalities across three counties in the Greater Charleston Area. The organization strives to unify and lead the local travel industry by promoting the destination, creating overnight visitation, and supporting the community’s long-term development through sustainable tourism strategies. The Charleston region’s travel and hospitality industry supports nearly 55,000 hospitality jobs and generates an annual economic impact exceeding $14 billion. 

The Food & Wine Classic in Charleston is powered by the Charleston Restaurant Foundation.

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South Carolina legislators will get a pay raise later this year after the House added the increase into the chamber’s second draft of the state spending plan Wednesday.

The proposal, added in a vote of 62-42, was part of the House’s $15.3 billion budget, which also included money for cost overruns at the Scout Motors manufacturing plant and approximately $300 million in earmarks.

The legislator-requested funds for their home districts comes on top of more than $130 million in senators’ proposed projects. Unlike the Senate, which paid for infrastructure projects only, House members asked for money to pay nonprofits.

The House and Senate still need to hash out their differences in the two different spending plans. But after the House matched the Senate’s proposal for a pay increase, that clause will remain locked in place when negotiations begin.

The clause will increase legislators’ monthly allowances from $1,000 to $2,500 starting Dec. 1, following the November election. The timing is meant to avoid another legal challenge like the one that led the state Supreme Court to throw out last year’s raise in the budget as unconstitutional.

Legislators also receive an annual salary of $10,400, plus a daily stipend meant to cover meals and hotel stays while they’re in session, plus mileage for one trip weekly. The last time legislators increased their pay was in 1995.

The raise would come at a cost of about $3 million to the state. Neither budget proposal included money specifically for that, but legislators could pull from extra revenue, said Ways and Means Chairman Bruce Bannister.

“I believe that the pay has been too low around here for a long time,” said House Majority Leader Davey Hiott, a Pickens Republican who is not running for reelection. “On my way out, I hope I can help many of you folks that will be here for years to come receive a little bit more funding.”

The issue didn’t ignite the same fervor among legislators this year as it did last year, when multiple representatives said they planned to either decline the money or donate it to charity. None of them got the chance, since the state’s highest court halted the increase, along with legislators’ regular monthly allowances, before the raise began.

One place where the House deviated from the Senate’s plan was in paying for cost overruns at the Scout Motors plant in Blythewood.

The Department of Commerce asked for $150 million to cover required upgrades to the site for environmental permits and road improvements leading to the plant.

Neither the House nor Senate granted the agency its request. But the House added a clause allowing two other agencies, which oversee transportation and natural resources, to pull from a pot of money designated for paying off state loans, which has nearly $133 million more than necessary for payments required in the coming fiscal year.

Both chambers asked the state’s auditing council to examine the Department of Commerce’s request, including determining whether the agency made the most cost-effective decisions possible and what caused the overruns.

Source: South Carolina Daily Gazette

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