Pinal Today

Governor Henry McMaster has presented his budget proposal for the fiscal year 2025-26, highlighting several key initiatives he wishes to see included in the final budget. The state of South Carolina is experiencing a significant budget surplus, estimated between $1.6 and $1.8 billion, due to strong economic performance.

The proposed budget includes $240 million allocated for disaster relief to cover recovery costs not eligible for FEMA reimbursements. Another major allocation is $200 million aimed at raising teacher salaries, increasing starting pay from $47,000 to $50,000.

Tax reduction is also on the agenda with a proposal of $193.5 million to lower the state's individual income tax rate from 6.2% to 6.0%. This issue is expected to be a central topic in this year's legislative discussions.

Infrastructure improvements are addressed with a proposed $100 million directed towards accelerating bridge infrastructure projects across the state through the Department of Transportation (SCDOT).

The budget further includes $95 million for technical college scholarships targeting critical needs jobs under the SC Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship Program (SCWINS). Additionally, there is a proposal of $20 million for continuing the SC BOOST program, which supports wage supplements for childcare workers in South Carolina.

Environmental services are also considered with an allocation of $13.7 million intended to reduce permit application backlogs and expedite permitting decisions within 90 days.

In response to evolving transportation trends, there is a plan for investing $10 million in creating Electric Vehicle (EV) training institutes.

Lastly, Governor McMaster proposes a tri-share pilot program with an investment of $1 million. This initiative aims to assist qualifying employees with childcare costs by sharing expenses among employers, employees, and the state equally.