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Jefferson calls for cigarette tax

Published Tuesday, May 06, 2008 9:34 AM

By Frank Johnson
Berkeley Independent

Rep. Joe Jefferson called for an increased cigarette tax in South Carolina, as Berkeley County’s legislative delegation addressed chamber of commerce members at Charleston Southern University Friday.

The county’s annual legislative luncheon was marked by an often-lighthearted look at the state of South Carolina politics, as well as a call for unity.

Sen. Larry Grooms called 2008 “a year of squabbling like none other.”

“There wouldn’t be (any squabbling) if the Senate would just do what we tell them,” Rep. David Umphlett deadpanned.

Sen. Paul Campbell drew laughs when he said that, in Columbia, “it’s not how you win or lose, it’s how you place the blame.”

Jefferson said while other states tax cigarettes up to several dollars a pack, South Carolina’s tax remains at only 7 cents. “We need to increase (the tax),” he said.

Jefferson also addressed the state of rural health care. He said there are many citizens who meet the requirements to receive health care assistance, but the stigma of visiting a free clinic keeps them away.

Jefferson called for a “home lemon law,” that will protect homebuyers the way the state currently protects car buyers.

Umphlett did not mince words as he took a shot at the cost of the soon-to-be-opened Cane Bay High School. The expense of the school “sent me into orbit,” Umphlett said. “I cannot agree with what … our school district administration has done. I’m not against the school system, but this is something we need to look at.”

Grooms said the state “has a strange way that we fund education … we’re going to have to address it.”

Rep. Jim Merrill said that while there has been “a little bit of bickering” in Columbia this year, he predicted legislators “will come together … at the end of the year.”

Merrill said he expects legislation on illegal immigration to pass, and Campbell shared his optimism.

House newcomer Joe Daning called his first weeks in Columbia “an interesting experience. I’m still having fun.”

Grooms said the state is developing a new energy policy. “You’re going to see the beginnings of that this summer,” he said.

Jefferson said Berkeley County “has selected some great representatives. They bring a plethora of valuable information to Columbia.”

Friday’s luncheon was attended by Moncks Corner Mayor Bill Peagler, as well as a host of county business and government leaders.

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