South Carolina Statehouse Blog

Davis Pushes Legislation Requiring Approval for All Fee Increases

January 26, 2010 – The South Carolina Senate today passed legislation authored by Senator Tom Davis (R-Beaufort) that reforms the way state agencies adjust and levy fees and fines.

During these tough economic times, some state agencies are making up for budget shortfalls by raising fees and fines on the people of South Carolina. Currently, agencies and departments increase fees and fines through regulations that are sent to the General Assembly in resolution form. Hearings are required on such regulations, but there are no requirements that the General Assembly act affirmatively to implement them. A large majority of these regulations become law through a “time-out period” with no legislative approval.

Senator Davis’ bill will require that any increase of a fee or fine through regulation is required to be approved by an affirmative vote of the General Assembly.

“Government budgets have been hit hard, but so have the budgets of families and businesses across South Carolina. We cannot let government use these hidden revenue sources to increase the burden on taxpayers during this economic decline,” Senator Davis said. “Prosperity will come through economic freedom and empowerment, not burdensome fee increases.”

Passed today by the Senate, Senator Davis’ bill now heads to the House for approval.