Education and tax reform are some of the top priorities as lawmakers return to Columbia for 2019 session
State lawmakers outlined their legislative priorities for the year Thursday, signaling a shift away from energy discussions that dominated much of last year’s session after the $9 billion fallout of the V.C. Summer nuclear plant.
In panel discussions with members of the media, various lawmakers expressed an interest in tackling tax reform, education — both K-12 and higher ed, and medical marijuana.
When it reconvenes on Tues. Jan. 8, the state General Assembly will have a little over $1 billion to spend, with more than half of that, $548.9 million, coming from one-time, non-recurring funds such as the “rainy day” Capital Reserve Fund. The state expects a $220.2 million surplus for 2018-2019, according to projections from the state’s Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office.
