As part of the People First initiative, the Charleston Metro Chamber is committed to improving economic mobility and the quality of life for everyone in our region. Essential to this effort is our Government Relations team’s focus on advancing legislation that aligns with our key priorities: attainable housing, education, transit and childcare.

By advocating for policies that address these critical areas, we aim to create a more equitable and prosperous Charleston region. We are optimistic and excited about the opportunity to collaborate with our region’s elected officials to make meaningful progress that benefits all who call Charleston home. Together, we are shaping the legacy for 2040.

Check out the legislative wins that have been achieved, focused on education.

• $7.16M to to Trident Technical College for maintenance, renovation and replacement.
• $182,000 to Military Child Education Coalition. Out of 73 school districts in SC, only 11 have received the Purple Star designation. This funding will help increase the number of Purple Star Districts across the state.
• $78.65M to fund the SC Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship Program (SCWINS).
• Funding to raise teacher pay from $42,500 to $47,000
• Funding for to freeze in-state tuition at public colleges and universities and relieve the tuition burden for SC students.
• S.557 Apprentice Tax Credit– S. 557 will expand the current apprenticeship tax credit from $1000 to $4000-$6000 depending on the type of apprenticeship. There are currently 935 active apprenticeships in SC. To increase this number, legislation is needed to incentivize more businesses to participate.

Keep checking back for more updates on People First Future-Ready Education legislation.