The Verdin View, October 2009
Dear Friends:
I’m sure you’ve noticed the welcome relief that we’ve received from the heat of summer. Fall is here. We’ve been out of session for about four months, but we’ve hardly been “off,” as you’ll see in some detail in this issue of THE VERDIN VIEW.
Last month, we wrapped up the South Carolina Natural Gas Exploration Feasibility Study Committee. This was a committee established by statute during the 2007-2008 sessions. I served as a member, as did several Senate and House members, including Rep. Jeff Duncan. Therefore, many of you reading this newsletter were fully represented by having both your legislators on this committee. Additionally, there were non-legislators from a number of professions, all bringing their unique perspective to this issue.
The committee was addressed by state and Federal agencies, various advocacy groups and oil and gas industry professionals. In the end, the committee voted to pursue entrance into off-shore natural gas exploration. The final recommendation was qualified to reflect, among other things, concern for natural resources and the tourism industry, market factors and royalty revenue sharing. Of course, it all hinges on South Carolina being included in the 5-year plan administered by the Minerals Management Service (MMS).
Currently, the Wind Energy Production Farms Feasibility Study Committee is meeting, with a similar composition and format. A public input meeting was held in Georgetown on October 12.
During my service on this committee, we have learned of the potential, not just of another energy source, but of the economic opportunity for South Carolina’s manufacturing sector to benefit from the development of this industry. The work of this committee will be concluded by year end.
Finally, we are also taking advantage of the time outside of session to make our time in January more productive. Sen. Harvey Peeler (Cherokee Co.) has asked me to chair a subcommittee that will look at several bills, all concerned with the restructuring of state agencies.
This subcommittee met, for the first time, near the end of September. We are giving consideration to two bills, both of which have already passed in the House, which would combine certain agencies. Also under consideration is a Senate bill that would divide the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) into two separate entities, one concerned with health and the other with environment.
We need agencies that will be rapid in response and thorough in disposition with cases that concern those among us having the most profound needs. Furthermore, these aims must be accomplished with the most efficient use of taxpayer funds. On the following pages, you’ll find summaries, including links to each bill in its entirety. Just click here.
Danny