Caucus in Committee

With just two weeks left in this year’s legislative session, the finish line is in sight—and we’re not letting up. After a short furlough break last week, we returned to the State House focused and ready to get to work. (An interesting fact: each furlough week for House members saves taxpayers more than $66,000.) This week, much of the progress happened in committee as we advanced legislation tied directly to our conservative priorities.

From protecting religious freedom in our schools to defending First Amendment rights and ensuring fairness in high school athletics, the House Republican Caucus is putting our Pillars of Progress into action. We’re not just talking about conservative values—we’re delivering real results for South Carolina families, students, and communities.

Protecting Free Speech and Stopping Frivolous Lawsuits

In today’s world, exercising your right to speak up can come with a cost, especially when powerful interests use frivolous lawsuits to intimidate citizens and silence opinions. That’s why I support the SC Public Expression Protection Act (H.3305), a bill that shields individuals from legal harassment for speaking out on matters of public concern. Whether speaking at a public hearing, writing an op-ed, or posting online about government actions, this bill ensures you can’t be dragged into court simply for using your voice. It’s a win for free speech and one step closer to becoming law after receiving a favorable report from the Senate Judiciary Committee this week.

Upholding Religious Freedom in Schools

Our children should never have to hide their faith at school—and this bill ensures they won’t have to. The updated Religious Viewpoints Antidiscrimination Act (H.3758), reported favorably with an amendment by the House Education & Public Works Committee this week, ensures students can voluntarily express their religious beliefs in classwork, school speeches, and events, just like any other viewpoint. I am proud to be the primary sponsor of this bill because it protects constitutional rights while ensuring school districts remain neutral, not hostile, toward religious expression. This is about fairness, clarity, and freedom of belief.

Leveling the Playing Field for All Students

Students in home schools, charter schools, and Governor’s Schools deserve equal access to extracurriculars, career training, and interscholastic competitions. H.3802, the Participation in Interscholastic Activities bill, makes that possible, ensuring every student can grow, compete, and participate. This week, the bill was reported favorably with an amendment from the House Education & Public Works K-12 Subcommittee. As someone who believes in educational opportunity for all, I will be proud to support this legislation once it makes it to the House floor.

Staying Informed:

As the session progresses, I will continue sharing updates like this to keep you informed about the work in Columbia. These weekly newsletters provide insight into legislative priorities, progress, and key developments. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your input is invaluable and helps ensure I effectively represent your needs.

SC Rep. Cody T. Mitchell

ctmitchellsc@gmail.com

office: 843.332.5050