President Biden Delivered for South Carolina
<div class="elementor elementor-4530">
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-4a75b5a e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent">
<div class="e-con-inner">
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-32d3503 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child">
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-902a62e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<p>Dear Friends,</p><p>The 119th Congress has begun and our 47th President has been sworn into office. This is probably a good time to take a moment to reflect on some of the many benefits President Biden and Congress delivered for South Carolina over the past four years.</p> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-afe530e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">President Biden’s Consequential Accomplishments</h2> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-2a5bfb0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<figure class="wp-caption">
<img alt="" src="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SC06JC/2021-10-28_pnn_0030-2.jpg" title="" /> <figcaption class="widget-image-caption wp-caption-text">President Biden meets with Congressman Clyburn and other lawmakers on Capitol Hill. (January, 2021)</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-53d7991 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<p>President Biden took office during a global pandemic that claimed the lives of 1.2 million Americans. Schools were closed, millions lost jobs, and families were isolated at home. The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines helped us return to our daily lives, but at a cost. The surge in economic activity drove up prices on everyday goods and led to increased mortgage, rent, and car payments. The war in Ukraine further destabilized the global economy, causing another spike in gas and food prices. Inflation <a href="https://www.imf.org/external/datamapper/PCPIPCH@WEO/OEMDC/ADVEC/WEOWORLD" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.imf.org%2fexternal%2fdatamapper%2fPCPIPCH%40WEO%2fOEMDC%2fADVEC%2fWEOWORLD&redir_log=198101261239458">soared</a> globally.</p><p>Despite these challenging economic conditions, America’s recovery has significantly outperformed peer nations. President Biden’s American Rescue Plan jumpstarted the economy, helping <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/articles/the-us-recovery-from-covid-19-in-international-comparison/#:~:text=Figure%201.%20Private%20US%20real%20consumption%20vs.%20precrisis%20trend%20after%20the%202008%20crisis%20and%20after%20COVID%2D19" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.brookings.edu%2farticles%2fthe-us-recovery-from-covid-19-in-international-comparison%2f%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dFigure%25201.%2520Private%2520US%2520real%2520consumption%2520vs.%2520precrisis%2520trend%2520after%2520the%25202008%2520crisis%2520and%2520after%2520COVID%252D19&redir_log=486265524541483">maintain economic activity</a> at pre-pandemic levels. As a result, the U.S. economy has seen <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/notes/feds-notes/why-is-the-u-s-gdp-recovering-faster-than-other-advanced-economies-20240517.html#:~:text=While%20real%20GDP,some%20new%20headwinds." rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.federalreserve.gov%2feconres%2fnotes%2ffeds-notes%2fwhy-is-the-u-s-gdp-recovering-faster-than-other-advanced-economies-20240517.html%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dWhile%2520real%2520GDP%2csome%2520new%2520headwinds.&redir_log=831916364581244">substantial growth</a> and <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/articles/the-us-recovery-from-covid-19-in-international-comparison/#:~:text=Figure%208.%20Real%20gross%20fixed%20capital%20formation%20across%20the%20G10" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.brookings.edu%2farticles%2fthe-us-recovery-from-covid-19-in-international-comparison%2f%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dFigure%25208.%2520Real%2520gross%2520fixed%2520capital%2520formation%2520across%2520the%2520G10&redir_log=242959596321176">investment</a> compared to other advanced economies, which are falling behind their pre-pandemic trajectories.</p><p>In addition to navigating us through the pandemic, President Biden invested in America. Whether it’s the influx of new companies investing in our state, or the bold effort to improve our highways and bridges, or our mission to connect every home and business to the internet by 2026, South Carolina is on the path to its strongest economy in decades.</p><p>With the help of Governor McMaster in implementing many of President Biden’s initiatives, I have never been more optimistic about South Carolina’s future.</p> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-7c429c6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">South Carolina’s Economy is Booming</h2> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-f48614e elementor-widget elementor-widget-image">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<figure class="wp-caption">
<img alt="" src="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SC06JC/53235067399_185e22282c_o.jpg" title="" /> <figcaption class="widget-image-caption wp-caption-text">President Biden and Congressman Clyburn tour Enphase Energy in West Columbia after the company announced a $60 million investment and 600 new solar energy jobs resulting from the Inflation Reduction Act. (July, 2023)</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-edc8c8c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<p>During President Biden’s first three years in office, South Carolina’s economy experienced <a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/SCRGSP" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2ffred.stlouisfed.org%2fseries%2fSCRGSP&redir_log=707142763439280">its fastest growth rate</a> since at least President Clinton’s administration. A <a href="https://dew.sc.gov/labor-market-information-blog/2024-10/real-gdp-quarter-two-2024" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fdew.sc.gov%2flabor-market-information-blog%2f2024-10%2freal-gdp-quarter-two-2024&redir_log=55101329383541">Bureau of Economic Analysis report</a> predicts 2024 will be another strong year.</p><p>South Carolina has also seen <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/SouthCarolinasRecord-BreakingYear" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fSouthCarolinasRecord-BreakingYear&redir_log=462689315185425">record private corporate investment</a> over the past four years. President Biden’s <a href="https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/08/16/fact-sheet-two-years-in-the-inflation-reduction-act-is-lowering-costs-for-millions-of-americans-tackling-the-climate-crisis-and-creating-jobs/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fbidenwhitehouse.archives.gov%2fbriefing-room%2fstatements-releases%2f2024%2f08%2f16%2ffact-sheet-two-years-in-the-inflation-reduction-act-is-lowering-costs-for-millions-of-americans-tackling-the-climate-crisis-and-creating-jobs%2f&redir_log=607575934141553">Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)</a> and <a href="https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/08/09/fact-sheet-two-years-after-the-chips-and-science-act-biden-%E2%81%A0harris-administration-celebrates-historic-achievements-in-bringing-semiconductor-supply-chains-home-creating-jobs-supporting-inn/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fbidenwhitehouse.archives.gov%2fbriefing-room%2fstatements-releases%2f2024%2f08%2f09%2ffact-sheet-two-years-after-the-chips-and-science-act-biden-%25E2%2581%25A0harris-administration-celebrates-historic-achievements-in-bringing-semiconductor-supply-chains-home-creating-jobs-supporting-inn%2f&redir_log=409364026051940">CHIPS Act</a> made historic investments in electric vehicles, alternative energy, semiconductor research, and manufacturing. In partnership with Governor McMaster and his team, we worked diligently to take advantage of these new incentives. </p><p>As a result, <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/2022-01/2021RecruitmentOverview_FINAL_0.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2f2022-01%2f2021RecruitmentOverview_FINAL_0.pdf&redir_log=170940747849601">companies</a> <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/2023-01/2022%20SCDOC%20Recruitment%20Overview_final_updated.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2f2023-01%2f2022%2520SCDOC%2520Recruitment%2520Overview_final_updated.pdf&redir_log=810097783232735">have</a> <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/2024-01/2023_SCDOC%20Recruitment%20Overview_FINAL.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2f2024-01%2f2023_SCDOC%2520Recruitment+Overview_FINAL.pdf&redir_log=121306422056645">invested</a> on average <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/2024%20SCDOC%20Recruitment%20Overview.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2f2025-01%2f2024%2520SCDOC+Recruitment+Overview.pdf&redir_log=258182324175607">twice as much</a> in South Carolina under President Biden ($8.3 billion a year) than under President Trump ($3.9 billion a year), which will result in <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/2022-01/2021RecruitmentOverview_FINAL_0.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2f2022-01%2f2021RecruitmentOverview_FINAL_0.pdf&redir_log=170940747849601">55,000</a> new jobs. <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/2022-01/2021RecruitmentOverview_FINAL_0.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2f2022-01%2f2021RecruitmentOverview_FINAL_0.pdf&redir_log=170940747849601">A third</a> of this new investment has been directed towards developments in rural communities.</p> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-80b6795 e-grid e-con-full e-con e-child">
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-310fa86 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<figure class="wp-caption">
<img alt="" src="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SC06JC/52386947149_21ed89415f_o1.jpg" title="" /> <figcaption class="widget-image-caption wp-caption-text">Congressman Clyburn speak at the White House ahead of President Biden signing the Inflation Reduction Act. (August, 2022)</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-231470a elementor-widget elementor-widget-image">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<figure class="wp-caption">
<img alt="" src="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SC06JC/52386878143_2748c014dd_o1.jpg" title="" /> <figcaption class="widget-image-caption wp-caption-text">Congressman Clyburn applauds President Biden after he signs the Inflation Reduction Act. (August, 2022)</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-fe4733e e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent">
<div class="e-con-inner">
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-d60ab41 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<p><strong><a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/state-economy/project-recruitment-data" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fstate-economy%2fproject-recruitment-data&redir_log=602739421823463">Five</a> of the six largest private investments in South Carolina are by companies benefiting from IRA and CHIPS Act incentives:</strong></p><ul><li><strong><a href="https://www.redwoodmaterials.com/news/announcing-redwood-south-carolina/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.redwoodmaterials.com%2fnews%2fannouncing-redwood-south-carolina%2f&redir_log=562924622931510">Redwood Materials</a></strong>, <a href="https://www.redwoodmaterials.com/news/announcing-redwood-south-carolina/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.redwoodmaterials.com%2fnews%2fannouncing-redwood-south-carolina%2f%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dWhen%2520paired%2520with%2520the%2520benefits%2520of%2520the%2520recent%2520Inflation%2520Reduction%2520Act%252C%2520this%2520strategic%2520location%2520also%2520allows%2520us%2520the%2520opportunity%2520to%2520invest%2520more%2520heavily%2520at%2520home%2520while%2520potentially%2520exporting%2520components%2520in%2520the%2520future%252C%2520allowing%2520the%2520U.S.%2520to%2520become%2520a%2520global%2520leader%2520in%2520this%2520manufacturing%2520capability.%25C2%25A0&redir_log=848216394173005">cited</a> the Inflation Reduction Act when announcing a $3.5 billion battery recycling facility in Berkeley County, creating 1,500 jobs — marking <a href="https://www.redwoodmaterials.com/carolina-campus/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.redwoodmaterials.com%2fbattery-materials-campus-2%2f%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dRedwood%2520will%2520invest%2520%25243.5%2520billion%2520at%2520this%2520campus%2520%25E2%2580%2593%2520the%2520single%2520largest%2520investment%2520in%2520South%2520Carolina%25E2%2580%2599s%2520history.&redir_log=60819975571447">the largest private capital investment</a> in South Carolina’s history.</li></ul><ul><li><a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-north-america-spartanburg-south-carolina-climate-and-environment-96753f092b29e0d384903591b5221f13" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fapnews.com%2farticle%2ftechnology-north-america-spartanburg-south-carolina-climate-and-environment-96753f092b29e0d384903591b5221f13&redir_log=618488256358874"><strong>BMW is investing</strong></a> $1 billion in its Spartanburg facility, along with $700 million in a nearby battery plant to produce all-electric vehicles eligible for <a href="https://www.autoweek.com/news/industry-news/a44361301/bmw-battery-plant-tax-credit-news-south-carolina/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.autoweek.com%2fnews%2findustry-news%2fa44361301%2fbmw-battery-plant-tax-credit-news-south-carolina%2f&redir_log=030633141805710">IRA EV tax credits.</a></li></ul><ul><li><a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/news/scout-motors-selects-south-carolina-production-site-plans-create-4000-jobs" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fnews%2fscout-motors-selects-south-carolina-production-site-plans-create-4000-jobs&redir_log=773466404835733"><strong>Scout Motors</strong></a>, the American car brand popular from 1960 to 1980, is reviving their iconic rugged SUVs and trucks by building fully electric models at a $2 billion plant outside of Columbia, with the potential to create 4,000 jobs.</li></ul><ul><li><a href="https://governor.sc.gov/news/2024-10/birla-carbon-selects-orangeburg-county-first-south-carolina-operation" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fgovernor.sc.gov%2fnews%2f2024-10%2fbirla-carbon-selects-orangeburg-county-first-south-carolina-operation&redir_log=710064300982745"><strong>Birla Carbon</strong></a> announced plans for a $1 billion facility in Orangeburg to produce synthetic graphite for electric vehicles and energy storage.</li></ul><ul><li><a href="https://investors.albemarle.com/news-and-events/news/news-details/2023/Albemarle-Corporation-Announces-New-U.S.-Lithium-Mega-Flex-Processing-Facility-in-South-Carolina/default.aspx#:~:text=The%20site%20also%20supports%20the%20Inflation%20Reduction%20Act%2C%20a%20federal%20law%20enacted%20in%202022%20to%20incentivize%20the%20localization%20of%20critical%20minerals%20in%20North%20America.%C2%A0" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2finvestors.albemarle.com%2fnews-and-events%2fnews%2fnews-details%2f2023%2fAlbemarle-Corporation-Announces-New-U.S.-Lithium-Mega-Flex-Processing-Facility-in-South-Carolina%2fdefault.aspx%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dThe%2520site%2520also%2520supports%2520the%2520Inflation%2520Reduction%2520Act%252C%2520a%2520federal%2520law%2520enacted%2520in%25202022%2520to%2520incentivize%2520the%2520localization%2520of%2520critical%2520minerals%2520in%2520North%2520America.%25C2%25A0&redir_log=427575444122566"><strong>Albemarle Corporation</strong></a> alluded to the IRA in announcing a <a href="https://investors.albemarle.com/news-and-events/news/news-details/2023/Albemarle-Corporation-Announces-New-U.S.-Lithium-Mega-Flex-Processing-Facility-in-South-Carolina/default.aspx" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2finvestors.albemarle.com%2fnews-and-events%2fnews%2fnews-details%2f2023%2fAlbemarle-Corporation-Announces-New-U.S.-Lithium-Mega-Flex-Processing-Facility-in-South-Carolina%2fdefault.aspx&redir_log=203978366721239">$1.3 billion</a> lithium-ion battery facility in Chester County, which will create 300 permanent jobs and 1500 construction jobs.</li></ul><p><strong>Beyond South Carolina’s growing electric vehicle industry, the state is emerging as a leader in clean and alternative energy technologies.</strong></p><ul><li>In 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce <a href="http://eda.gov/funding/programs/regional-technology-and-innovation-hubs/2023/SC-Nexus-for-Advanced-Resilient-Energy?__cf_chl_tk=loTW4t2_GXKCM7Oja7xQYZLOQ7Awe1GFgcvQHBdPOG8-1773336680-1.0.1.1-t0LMgdAzOleCLYoQ1kjZgj0gcBn3gel4UnFQ1Rxv.Hw" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.eda.gov%2ffunding%2fprograms%2fregional-technology-and-innovation-hubs%2f2023%2fSC-Nexus-for-Advanced-Resilient-Energy&redir_log=083228252346826">selected the SC Nexus for Advanced Resilient Energy</a> initiative as one of <a href="https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/regional-technology-and-innovation-hubs/2023/SC-Nexus-for-Advanced-Resilient-Energy" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.eda.gov%2ffunding%2fprograms%2fregional-technology-and-innovation-hubs%2f2023%2fSC-Nexus-for-Advanced-Resilient-Energy&redir_log=083228252346826">31 regional Tech Hubs.</a> This new <a href="https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/regional-technology-and-innovation-hubs/2023/SC-Nexus-for-Advanced-Resilient-Energy" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.eda.gov%2ffunding%2fprograms%2fregional-technology-and-innovation-hubs%2f2023%2fSC-Nexus-for-Advanced-Resilient-Energy&redir_log=083228252346826">Biden Administration initiative</a>, funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, fosters collaboration between public, private, and academic partners to drive innovation in future technologies and strengthen national security.</li></ul><ul><li>This past summer, <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/newsletter/sc-nexus-tech-hub-one-12-receiving-federal-funds" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fnewsletter%2fsc-nexus-tech-hub-one-12-receiving-federal-funds&redir_log=429912206988597">SC Nexus became one of 12 Tech Hubs across the nation awarded funding</a> by the Biden Administration to expand its research and development capacity into battery manufacturing, grid-enabled cyber operations, and grid emulation. The S.C. Department of Commerce estimates that over <a href="https://www.sccommerce.com/sites/default/files/2024-07/SC%20NEXUS%20Info%20Sheet.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.sccommerce.com%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2f2024-07%2fSC%2520NEXUS+Info+Sheet.pdf&redir_log=986003671464517">14,000 new jobs</a> will be created through these investments.</li></ul><p>All this new private and public investment in South Carolina’s economy means that our products will be accessible to global markets. Thanks to a combination of state and federal dollars, in 2022 the Charleston Harbor became the <a href="https://scspa.com/news/charleston-has-deepest-harbor-on-east-coast-at-52-feet/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fscspa.com%2fnews%2fcharleston-has-deepest-harbor-on-east-coast-at-52-feet%2f&redir_log=095565787888531">deepest harbor on the East Coast</a>, enabling some of the largest and heaviest cargo ships to dock in our state.</p> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-5cecb4d elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Rebuilding our Infrastructure is Real</h2> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-cfd41f5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<figure class="wp-caption">
<img alt="" src="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SC06JC/53234696396_2ca7a45c32_o.jpg" title="" /> <figcaption class="widget-image-caption wp-caption-text">Congressman Clyburn welcomes President Biden to Columbia. (July, 2023)</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-12ff4ea elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<p><span>President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has significantly improved healthcare affordability for tens of thousands of South Carolinians.</span></p><ul><li>Through expanded premium tax credits, monthly premiums for healthcare plans available on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace <a href="https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/inflation-reduction-act-health-insurance-subsidies-what-is-their-impact-and-what-would-happen-if-they-expire/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.kff.org%2faffordable-care-act%2fissue-brief%2finflation-reduction-act-health-insurance-subsidies-what-is-their-impact-and-what-would-happen-if-they-expire%2f&redir_log=395522511951123">have been reduced.</a> <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-launches-10th-year-marketplace-open-enrollment-four-out-five-customers" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.cms.gov%2fnewsroom%2fpress-releases%2fbiden-harris-administration-launches-10th-year-marketplace-open-enrollment-four-out-five-customers&redir_log=040586828981004">Four out of five ACA enrollees</a> can now find plans for <strong>$10 a month or less</strong>, with some qualifying for <a href="https://www.healthinsurance.org/faqs/whos-getting-zero-premium-health-insurance-plans/#:~:text=For%202021%20through,in%20most%20areas.)" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.healthinsurance.org%2ffaqs%2fwhos-getting-zero-premium-health-insurance-plans%2f%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dFor%25202021%2520through%2cin%2520most%2520areas.)&redir_log=692533703635896">$0 monthly premiums.</a></li><li>The IRA expanded access to Federal Marketplace plans to higher income households, ensuring that no household, regardless of income, will spend more than <a href="https://www.cms.gov/blog/inflation-reduction-act-tax-credits-improve-coverage-affordability-middle-income-americans" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.cms.gov%2fblog%2finflation-reduction-act-tax-credits-improve-coverage-affordability-middle-income-americans&redir_log=604633713336813">8.5% of their income on premiums.</a></li><li>Insulin is now capped at just <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/insulin#:~:text=The%20cost%20of,of%20covered%20insulin." rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.medicare.gov%2fcoverage%2finsulin%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dThe%2520cost%2520of%2cof%2520covered%2520insulin.&redir_log=660288606213596">$35 per month</a> for Medicare recipients, a move that prompted <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/01/politics/insulin-price-cap/index.html#:~:text=Sanofi%20is%20joining%20the%20nation%E2%80%99s%20two%20other%20major%20insulin%20manufacturers%20in%20offering%20either%20price%20caps%20or%20savings%20programs%20that%20lower%20the%20cost%20of%20the%20drugs%20to%20%2435%20for%20many%20patients." rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.cnn.com%2f2024%2f01%2f01%2fpolitics%2finsulin-price-cap%2findex.html%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dSanofi%2520is%2520joining%2520the%2520nation%25E2%2580%2599s%2520two%2520other%2520major%2520insulin%2520manufacturers%2520in%2520offering%2520either%2520price%2520caps%2520or%2520savings%2520programs%2520that%2520lower%2520the%2520cost%2520of%2520the%2520drugs%2520to%2520%252435%2520for%2520many%2520patients.&redir_log=760135926822068">the three largest insulin manufacturers to lower their prices</a> for all patients. Recommended vaccines are <a href="https://www.cms.gov/files/document/ira-vaccines-article.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank">now free with Medicare prescription coverage.</a></li><li>Starting this year, Medicare beneficiaries’ total <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/prescription-payment-plan/before-payment-option" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.medicare.gov%2fabout-us%2fprescription-drug-law%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dYour%2520yearly%2520Part%2520D%2520out%252Dof%252Dpocket%2520costs%2520will%2520be%2520capped%2520at%2520%25242%252C000%2520in%25202025.%2520You%25E2%2580%2599ll%2520also%2520have%2520the%2520option%2520to%2520pay%2520out%252Dof%252Dpocket%2520costs%2520in%2520monthly%2520amounts%2520over%2520the%2520plan%2520year%252C%2520instead%2520of%2520when%2520they%2520happen.&redir_log=852163959932189">out-of-pocket prescription drug costs are capped at $2,000 annually</a>, no matter how expensive their medications are.</li></ul><p>Further, in a landmark move, the Inflation Reduction Act took on the pharmaceutical industry by empowering Medicare to <a href="https://www.cms.gov/priorities/medicare-prescription-drug-affordability/overview/medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program#:~:text=Because%20of%20the%20prescription%20drug%20law%2C%20known%20as%20the%20Inflation%20Reduction%20Act%2C%20Medicare%20is%20able%20to%20negotiate%20directly%20with%20drug%20companies%20to%20improve%20access%20to%20some%20of%20the%20costliest%20single%2Dsource%20brand%2Dname%20Medicare%20Part%20B%20and%20Part%20D%20drugs." rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.cms.gov%2finflation-reduction-act-and-medicare%2fmedicare-drug-price-negotiation%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dBecause%2520of%2520the%2520prescription%2520drug%2520law%252C%2520known%2520as%2520the%2520Inflation%2520Reduction%2520Act%252C%2520Medicare%2520is%2520able%2520to%2520negotiate%2520directly%2520with%2520drug%2520companies%2520to%2520improve%2520access%2520to%2520some%2520of%2520the%2520costliest%2520single%252Dsource%2520brand%252Dname%2520Medicare%2520Part%2520B%2520and%2520Part%2520D%2520drugs.&redir_log=130940257332671">lower prices for common prescription drugs.</a> In 2026, drugs like <a href="https://www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-negotiated-prices-initial-price-applicability-year-2026.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.cms.gov%2ffiles%2fdocument%2ffact-sheet-negotiated-prices-initial-price-applicability-year-2026.pdf&redir_log=829054404257723">Farxiga, Jardiance, Stelara, Xarelto</a> and others will be discounted up to 76%, <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/negotiating-lower-drug-prices-works-saves-billions#:~:text=CMS%20will%20select%20up%20to%2015%20more%20drugs%20covered%20under%20Part%20D%20for%20negotiation%20for%202027%20by%20February%201%2C%202025.%20CMS%20will%20select%20up%20to%2015%20more%20drugs%20covered%20by%20Part%20B%20or%20Part%20D%20for%202028%2C%20and%20up%20to%2020%20more%20Part%20B%20or%20Part%20D%20drugs%20for%20each%20year%20after%20that%2C%20as%20required%20by%20the%20Inflation%20Reduction%20Act." rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.cms.gov%2fnewsroom%2fpress-releases%2fnegotiating-lower-drug-prices-works-saves-billions%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dCMS%2520will%2520select%2520up%2520to%252015%2520more%2520drugs%2520covered%2520under%2520Part%2520D%2520for%2520negotiation%2520for%25202027%2520by%2520February%25201%252C%25202025.%2520CMS%2520will%2520select%2520up%2520to%252015%2520more%2520drugs%2520covered%2520by%2520Part%2520B%2520or%2520Part%2520D%2520for%25202028%252C%2520and%2520up%2520to%252020%2520more%2520Part%2520B%2520or%2520Part%2520D%2520drugs%2520for%2520each%2520year%2520after%2520that%252C%2520as%2520required%2520by%2520the%2520Inflation%2520Reduction%2520Act.&redir_log=794097107543179">and at least 15 additional drugs</a> will be subject to price negotiations annually so long as the Inflation Reduction Act remains law.</p><p>These drug negotiations will not only save people money on their prescriptions but also save taxpayers <a href="https://www.kff.org/medicare/3-charts-about-medicare-drug-price-negotiations/#:~:text=The%20Congressional%20Budget%20Office%20has%20estimated%20that%20negotiated%20prices%20will%20reduce%20Medicare%20spending%20on%20drugs%20subject%20to%20negotiation%2C%20translating%20into%20nearly%20%24100%20billion%20in%20federal%20savings%20between%202026%20and%202031." rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.kff.org%2faffordable-care-act%2fpress-release%2f3-charts-about-medicare-drug-price-negotiations%2f%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dThe%2520Congressional%2520Budget%2520Office%2520has%2520estimated%2520that%2520negotiated%2520prices%2520will%2520reduce%2520Medicare%2520spending%2520on%2520drugs%2520subject%2520to%2520negotiation%252C%2520translating%2520into%2520nearly%2520%2524100%2520billion%2520in%2520federal%2520savings%2520between%25202026%2520and%25202031.&redir_log=87565662582462">$100 billion over five years.</a></p> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-8f56a00 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Caring for our veterans</h2> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-aacb549 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<figure class="wp-caption">
<img alt="" src="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SC06JC/Gh1eAqKXcAAVGq3.jpg" title="" /> <figcaption class="widget-image-caption wp-caption-text">Congressman Clyburn meets with South Carolina National Guard Members assisting with inauguration activities in Washington, D.C. (January, 2025)</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-4b79a22 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<p>I have always believed that America has a sacred duty to care for the brave men and women we send into harm’s way. For too long, we fell short of fulfilling that commitment. Many veterans return home with serious illnesses that take years to manifest, making it difficult to establish a service connection required for VA healthcare and benefits.</p><p><span>Thanks to the PACT Act, signed into law by President Biden in August of 2022, these barriers to care have been removed for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, and other toxins.</span></p><p>Honorably discharged veterans diagnosed with a presumptive condition who served in the Vietnam War, Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any other combat zone after 9/11 are now eligible for <a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.va.gov%2fresources%2fthe-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits%2f&redir_log=39170088074437">VA health care and benefits</a>. Additionally surviving spouses and dependents <a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/#:~:text=screening%20at%20VA%3F-,Information%20for%20survivors,-Expand%20all%20%2B" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.va.gov%2fresources%2fthe-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits%2f%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dscreening%2520at%2520VA%253F-%2cInformation%2520for%2520survivors%2c-Expand%2520all%2520%252B&redir_log=695156517551948">may qualify</a> for PACT Act benefits</p><p><span>In under three years since its enactment, the PACT Act has delivered tangible results for our veterans:</span></p><ul><li><a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/#qdata" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fdepartment.va.gov%2fpactdata%2finteractive-dashboard%2f&redir_log=342515773846402"><strong>1.4 million</strong></a> PACT Act claims have been approved.</li><li><strong><a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/#qdata" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fdepartment.va.gov%2fpactdata%2finteractive-dashboard%2f&redir_log=342515773846402">391,352</a></strong> newly eligible veterans enrolled in VA healthcare.</li><li><strong><a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/#qdata" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fdepartment.va.gov%2fpactdata%2finteractive-dashboard%2f&redir_log=342515773846402">6 million</a></strong> veterans have received free toxic exposure screenings.</li><li><a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/#qdata" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fdepartment.va.gov%2fpactdata%2finteractive-dashboard%2f&redir_log=342515773846402"><strong>In South Carolina</strong></a> alone, nearly <strong><a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/#qdata" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fdepartment.va.gov%2fpactdata%2finteractive-dashboard%2f&redir_log=342515773846402">60,000 veterans</a></strong> submitted PACT Act related claims, with <strong><a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/#qdata" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fdepartment.va.gov%2fpactdata%2finteractive-dashboard%2f&redir_log=342515773846402">8,741 newly enrolling</a></strong> in VA healthcare.</li></ul><p>Our veterans swore to protect and defend our nation, and we swore to care for them upon their return. Visit <a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.va.gov%2fresources%2fthe-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits%2f&redir_log=39170088074437"><strong>www.va.gov/PACT</strong></a> or your local VA hospital today to determine if you are eligible for PACT Act benefits and services.</p> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-8aac12f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<h2 class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default">Supporting Our farmers</h2> </div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-af65618 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<figure class="wp-caption">
<img alt="" src="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SC06JC/vilsak_visit_2021.jpg" title="" /> <figcaption class="widget-image-caption wp-caption-text">Congressman Clyburn and Secretary of Agriculture Vilsack meet with farmers in Orangeburg County. (May, 2021)</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-4bc5838 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor">
<div class="elementor-widget-container">
<p>The past few years have been challenging for our nation’s farmers due to weaker crop prices, higher input costs, and damage from natural disasters. Last month, Congress passed and President Biden signed into law <a href="https://www.agweb.com/news/policy/ag-economy/breaking-down-2025-american-relief-act-what-it-means-you#:~:text=In%20addition%20to%20a%20farm%20bill%20extension%20through%20Sept.%2030%2C%202025%2C%20the%20American%20Relief%20Act%20of%202025%20recently%20passed%20by%20Congress%20contains%20%249.8%20billion%20in%20market%20relief%20payments%20for%2020%20covered%20crops." rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.agweb.com%2fnews%2fpolicy%2fag-economy%2fbreaking-down-2025-american-relief-act-what-it-means-you%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dIn%2520addition%2520to%2520a%2520farm%2520bill%2520extension%2520through%2520Sept.%252030%252C%25202025%252C%2520the%2520American%2520Relief%2520Act%2520of%25202025%2520recently%2520passed%2520by%2520Congress%2520contains%2520%25249.8%2520billion%2520in%2520market%2520relief%2520payments%2520for%252020%2520covered%2520crops.&redir_log=036754961222333">$10 billion</a> in economic assistance to farmers producing eligible commodities and <a href="https://www.fb.org/market-intel/farmers-head-into-2025-with-another-farm-bill-extension-aid#:~:text=Most%20of%20the,harvested%20adulterated%20wine" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.fb.org%2fmarket-intel%2ffarmers-head-into-2025-with-another-farm-bill-extension-aid%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dMost%2520of%2520the%2charvested%2520adulterated%2520wine&redir_log=192658021596990">$21 billion</a> in aid for farmers affected by hurricanes, droughts, wildfires, and flooding. </p><p>In addition to relief for producers, The Inflation Reduction Act established the <a href="https://www.usda.gov/dfap-foia" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.usda.gov%2fdfap-foia&redir_log=328688901324209">Discrimination Financial Assistance Program</a> to provide direct payments to farmers who were <a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/02/19/1156851675/in-2022-black-farmers-were-persistently-left-behind-from-the-usdas-loan-system" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.npr.org%2f2023%2f02%2f19%2f1156851675%2fin-2022-black-farmers-were-persistently-left-behind-from-the-usdas-loan-system&redir_log=547799459392818">discriminated against</a> in USDA farm lending. In August, President Biden announced that more than <a href="https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/dfap-newsletter-08.05.24.pdf" rel="noopener external noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&cid=SC06JC&crop=15717QQQ12284984QQQ2955339QQQ7586422&report_id=&redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.usda.gov%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2fdocuments%2fdfap-newsletter-08.05.24.pdf&redir_log=776318235428530">43,000</a> eligible farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners nationwide received direct payments averaging $82,000. According to the USDA, 1,371 eligible South Carolinians received $54.5 million in direct payments averaging $39,750.</p><p>It is true that rising food costs and declining home ownership over the past few years have been very difficult for many families. But it’s also true that lowering the cost of medicine, eliminating internet deserts, and cancelling student loan debts are making the lives of many families much less difficult. Businesses are investing in South Carolina like never before. Our roads and bridges are finally being fixed.</p><p>Thanks to President Joe Biden’s visionary investments in our communities, South Carolinians are much better off than we were four years ago, and the foundation upon which to launch a brighter and more prosperous future has been laid.</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>Jim</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
ff641ea6-0b5c-40bb-89ef-d9b2243bb73bIssued within 24 hours
Other senators' releases published in the day before or after this one.
