FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JANUARY 26, 2017

Contact: Reagan Kelley

ReaganKelley@scsenate.gov

803-212-6332

SENATE MAJORITY ANNOUNCES CHANGES IN COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP

Lieutenant Governor Change Leads to Numerous Committee Moves

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Today the Senate Majority announced a number of changes to Senate leadership resulting from Governor Nikki Haley’s appointment as United States Ambassador to the United Nations.

Senator Kevin Bryant, R-Anderson, was elected to serve as lieutenant governor, replacing former presiding officer and now 117th South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster. Senator Hugh Leatherman, R-Florence, filled the President Pro Tempore position in the Senate. The Senate General Committee will be chaired by Senator Katrina Shealy, R-Lexington. During the past legislative session, the General Committee involvement primarily included the restructure of the Department of Social Services, as well as the refugee program. Bryant’s ascension opened a vacancy on the Senate Finance Committee to be filled by Senator Greg Hembree, R-Horry.

QUOTABLES:

“It’s a great fit given my interests and passions of helping our children in the DSS system,” Senator Katrina Shealy said. “I’m looking forward to being able to make a direct impact on these important issues and others that our state may face.”

Senator Greg Hembree said, “Joining the Senate Finance Committee is a great opportunity for me, and for Horry and Dillon counties. Having a seat at the table will benefit our area and allow me to better watch out for the taxpayers of our region.”

Senator Hembree’s move resulted in a vacancy on the Senate Judiciary Committee to be filled following the special election of District 3 in Anderson County.

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