South Carolina has seen a week of pivotal decisions and notable developments as state leaders, businesses, and communities press forward on several fronts. Among the top headlines, Governor Henry McMaster’s appointment of Margaret Fent Bodman as the new State Child Advocate aims to provide continuity and oversight at the Department of Children’s Advocacy, following Amanda Whittle’s move to the judiciary, as reported by South Carolina Public Radio. The Marlboro County School District faces a critical juncture, with the State Department of Education considering a financial takeover and suspending enrollment pending a final decision.In the legislative arena, South Carolina’s 14.4 billion dollar budget continues through negotiations, with both the House and Senate supporting teacher pay increases and compensation for lower-wage state employees. According to a legislative update from the Carolinas Associated General Contractors, the Senate included substantial bridge funding, with 100 million dollars specifically directed toward infrastructure and an additional 200 million approved this year for accelerated bridge upgrades. Another notable policy under review, the South Carolina Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resilience Act, could modernize how building energy codes are adopted and updated.Business highlights this week include expansion announcements from several major manufacturers. Rolls-Royce Solutions America is investing 75 million dollars to expand engine manufacturing in Aiken County, adding 60 new jobs, with Governor McMaster emphasizing South Carolina’s growing stature in advanced manufacturing. Other investments include Hampton Lumber’s 225 million dollar new sawmill in Allendale County, set to bring at least 125 new jobs, and Fine Organics selecting Union County for its first US manufacturing site. The South Carolina Department of Commerce details nearly eight million dollars awarded in community development grants to support public improvements throughout the state.Communities are also seeing change in public safety and education. The City of Georgetown passed a hate crime ordinance, joining a growing list of municipalities adding local protections. Clemson University’s Board of Trustees recently approved its FY26 budget, expressing confidence in its financial outlook and recognizing staff efforts. In statewide education news, the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act expands allowed uses of 529 educational savings plans, giving families increased flexibility to invest in their children’s future, as explained by State Treasurer Curtis Loftis.On the infrastructure front, state and local agencies continue work on modernization of bridges, while school construction projects make visible progress in the Lower State. Elsewhere, the Harbison State Forest remains closed following recent dog attacks as officials urge caution and request public cooperation to ensure safety.Significant weather events included a minor 2.2 magnitude earthquake this past Wednesday, as reported by WLTX, which fortunately caused no known damages. South Carolinians are also grappling with extended periods of extreme heat, with advisories urging precaution for outdoor activities.Looking ahead, listeners can expect updates on the Marlboro County school district situation, further legislative decisions on the state budget, and continued announcements of business investments shaping the region. As the summer continues, infrastructure upgrades and educational policy changes will remain focal points across the state.Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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