Sanford gives lawmakers mixed review

COLUMBIA — A true evaluation of the Legislature's performance this year will come when voters hit the polls today, Gov. Mark Sanford said Monday.

He did offer his view on lawmakers' priorities, though.

"I think we have shortchanged the people of South Carolina and the taxpayers of South Carolina in not putting first things first," said Sanford, who is often at odds with the Legislature.

Lawmakers took too much time debating issues that aren't significant, such as designating one day a year "Historic Baseball Leagues Day," Sanford said.

Meanwhile, the Legislature failed to address what the governor says are bigger issues, including primarily what he perceives as an unconstitutional $28 million budget deficit and an outdated government structure designed in 1895.

"What is bad news now is going to become incredibly ugly over time," he said with regard to the Legislature's spending practices.

The shortfall is projected because of rising fuel costs in the Education and Corrections departments. Legislators have argued that it is up to the agencies to shift money around to cover costs, and noted that the state has reserves for emergencies.

Still, Sanford said he will consider whether to call the Legislature back into session, a costly prospect that Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell, R-Charleston, called dangerous. Lawmakers are not limited in what can be discussed during a special session, McConnell said. Sanford said he will put off a decision until after the primaries and any runoff elections that might be needed.

However, the governor was quick to give credit for several important new laws. They are tougher penalties for drunken drivers, specifically repeat offenders, and the removal of loopholes that hamper prosecution; a new law cracks down on illegal immigration with new hiring standards for businesses and consequences for businesses and illegal immigrants who break the law.

Sanford also applauded legislators for passing a new law that will help small businesses obtain better health insurance rates for their employees by purchasing coverage in groups.

Sanford said his priorities this summer are to form a Sustainable Growth Task Force to study conservation issues, examine ideas for maintaining and expanding the state's roadways, assess healthcare reform options and assemble a committee to lure the Boy Scouts of America's national jamboree to South Carolina.

Reach Yvonne Wenger at 803-799-9051 or ywenger@postandcourier.com.