Rep. Mitchell: South Carolina Budget delivers Tax Relief, Smart Investments

By Rep. Cody T. Mitchell, District 65

This week, I proudly joined fellow House Republicans in passing a balanced, fiscally conservative budget that delivers meaningful results for South Carolina families while maintaining our state’s strong financial footing.

Unlike Washington’s deficit spending, our 2025-2026 budget demonstrates responsible governance with $1 billion in direct tax relief, including $800 million in property tax relief and $200 million in income tax cuts. South Carolina families are now paying 14% less in income taxes than just three years ago.

“This budget is conservative, responsible, and keeps our commitment to the taxpayers,” noted House Majority Leader Davey Hiott.

Our state—the fastest-growing in the nation with $52.8 billion in new capital investments and 121,000 new jobs over the last decade—requires thoughtful investment in core priorities:

Education & Workforce Development

$1,500 teacher salary increase, putting SC above the Southeastern average

$50 million for college tuition mitigation

$342 million for scholarships including LIFE, HOPE, and Palmetto Fellows

Public Safety

$6.3 million for law enforcement pay increases

$3.7 million for school resource officers

$7.5 million for cell phone interdiction at state prisons

Infrastructure

$200 million for critical roads and bridges

$20 million for water and sewer improvements in rural areas

$81 million for site readiness to attract businesses

These investments reflect our commitment to South Carolina’s continued prosperity while maintaining fiscal discipline. We’re funding essential services without unnecessary government expansion.

Our approach to budgeting has contributed to impressive economic growth, with 83% wage growth over the past 20 years. By cutting taxes responsibly while investing in education, infrastructure, and public safety, we’re creating an environment where businesses and families can thrive.

As your representative, I’m focused on delivering real results—not political theater. This budget represents the values that make South Carolina strong: fiscal responsibility, support for working families, and smart investments in our future.

I’m proud of what we accomplished this week and will continue working to ensure District 65 and all of South Carolina remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Rep. Cody T. Mitchell represents District 65, serving Chesterfield, Darlington, Kershaw, and Lancaster Counties in the South Carolina House of Representatives.