Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

Wednesday, May 22, 2013  Senators have advanced a measure to keep government running at current levels if legislators can't finish a budget before the fiscal year starts July 1.

Friday, May 03, 2013  Senators want to limit the foods Gov. Nikki Haley's staff can buy with public money, saying if the Republican governor insists on fighting obesity through food stamp restrictions, she needs to lead by example.

Friday, May 03, 2013  The Senate Finance Committee has approved a budget proposal that expands full-day 4-year-old kindergarten, gives state workers a slight raise, and puts more troopers on the highways.

Friday, May 03, 2013  The Senate Finance Committee has advanced a plan that funds road and bridge construction by redirecting taxes, borrowing money and raising fees.

Thursday, May 02, 2013  The Senate Finance Committee has refused to expand Medicaid eligibility to more poor adults as part of the state budget.

Wednesday, May 01, 2013  An effort to expand South Carolina's full-day 4-year-old kindergarten program to more poor children is advancing in the Senate.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013  Legislation giving the Boeing Co. $120 million in incentives for their expansion plans in South Carolina is one vote away from reaching the governor's desk.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013  A bill aimed at growing the film industry in South Carolina is headed to the Senate floor.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013  Lawmakers insist they've fast-tracked a government restructuring bill, even as Gov. Nikki Haley criticizes what she calls a stalling tactic.

Wednesday, May 09, 2012  The Senate Finance Committee has advanced a bill reducing taxes for small business owners.

Thursday, May 03, 2012  South Carolina's current public employees would see fewer changes in their pension benefits under a Senate panel's plan than the House proposed.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012  The South Carolina House has approved a bill cutting personal income taxes.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012  A bill requiring South Carolina taxpayers to receive a detailed receipt of how their state taxes are spent has advanced in the Senate.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012  South Carolina Treasurer Curtis Loftis says the state pension system is underperforming and paying too much in fees.Loftis is to testify Tuesday to a Senate Finance subcommittee. Legislators are looking to reform the pension system to make it more secure. Possibilities include requiring public workers to contribute more of their salary to their retirement benefits

Thursday, April 21, 2011  South Carolina's Senate Republicans have re-elected Gaffney Sen. Harvey Peeler as their majority leader.