Lawmakers in Columbia, S.C., are gearing up for a return to the statehouse in less than a month. South Carolina’s leaders are already setting the stage for the 2026 legislative session, which is anticipated to prioritize tax reform, enhance public safety, and address long-overdue infrastructure projects.

This upcoming session signifies the second year in the two-year legislative cycle of the General Assembly, often regarded as the pivotal time for enacting significant policy measures.

House leaders have expressed their intent to advance the groundwork laid during the off-session, which includes in-depth committee studies and negotiations with the Senate.

“Our aim is to reduce taxes, streamline operations, and make South Carolina a welcoming place for families to thrive and establish roots,” stated State Representative Brandon Newton (R – Lancaster).

Public Safety and DUI Reform

Public safety is expected to be a central theme as well, with a spotlight on DUI legislation. Lawmakers are considering tougher penalties and efforts to close existing loopholes, a move fueled by years of advocacy from victims’ organizations and law enforcement agencies.

House Speaker Murrell Smith (R – Sumter) said collaboration with the Senate has already been underway.

“We’ve been working with the Senate in that regard, and they’re going to take the lead on that issue,” Smith said. “Chairman Newton and others on the judiciary have been working on that issue as well, and it’s going to be a priority of theirs.”

Taxes and Economic Growth

Tax reform, particularly income tax relief, remains a key priority for House leadership. Lawmakers pointed to past tax cuts as evidence that the state can move faster on additional reductions.

“We had a five-year reduction that we did in three years,” a House leader said during a December press conference. “Our record speaks for itself that we can expedite any tax cut for citizens of the state because we’re economically so successful here.”

Supporters argue that additional tax cuts could help South Carolina remain competitive with neighboring states, while critics have raised questions about long-term impacts on funding for schools and infrastructure.

Infrastructure, Insurance, and Juvenile Crime

Throughout the off-session, House members served on several ad hoc committees examining issues including insurance reform, transportation funding, and juvenile crime.

Lawmakers said findings from those committees will help shape legislation during the upcoming session.

“We had the DOT ad hoc committee and the Insurance Rate Review Committee,” said House Majority Leader Davey Hiott (R – Pickens). “We want to make sure that we hear from all South Carolinians.”

State Rep. Shannon Erickson (R-Beaufort) has emphasized that roads and bridges should be addressed early in the session, citing growing concerns about aging infrastructure and safety.

Looking Ahead

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey (R-Edgefield) was unavailable for comment on Senate priorities. A spokesperson did state that the Senate is expected to release its legislative agenda within the first two weeks of January.

During the previous session, Massey identified DUI reform as a top Senate priority.

The 2026 legislative session begins in January.