Businesses might face new fees

Repaying U.S. government could cost state employers at least $21 per worker

COLUMBIA -- South Carolina businesses may have to pay added fees of at least $21 each for the state's roughly 2 million workers after November -- fees that could accelerate yearly -- to repay federal loans for unemployment checks. Read More

Bill aimed at drivers' calls, texts

Subcommittee approves measure to forbid texting, limit use of cell phones

COLUMBIA -- This might be the year when South Carolina legislators join a national effort to ban motorists behind the wheel from sending text messages or holding a cell phone to talk. Read More

Bill to ban text-messaging and hand-held cell use while driving advances

COLUMBIA — Legislators advanced a bill today that would make it illegal in South Carolina to text-message or use a hand-held cell phone while driving. Read More

Panel urges changes in sentencing

Prison recommended for state's violent offenders, alternative routes for others

COLUMBIA -- South Carolina prison beds should be reserved for the most violent offenders, the state's Sentencing Reform Commission recommended Tuesday. Read More

Election notices changes proposed

COLUMBIA -- The State Election Commission estimates that it would save at least $80,000 a year on legal advertisements for statewide races if it moved the notices from newspapers to the Internet, but critics fear it could result in lower voter awareness and turnout. Read More

Long-term study on criminal justice system released

COLUMBIA — Details of a long anticipated study of the criminal justice system were released this morning, and the focus is on reducing recidivism, offering fair sentences, using tax dollars wisely and ensuring space in prisons for the most violent offenders. Read More

Warnings unheeded as jobless fund fell

Evolution of disaster suggests plenty of blame to go around

COLUMBIA -- As early as 2005, state leaders knew or should have known that the fund that pays out unemployment benefits was losing as much as $155 million a year and would be broke in no time. Read More

Criminal study due out today

Lawmakers eager to learn how public can be protected

COLUMBIA -- The results of a long-term study into alternative sentencing due out today is expected to help legislators grappling with violence in the community and a major budget crunch. Read More

Bill excludes homosexuals

COLUMBIA -- Teens subjected to dating violence would get more protections under two bills before the state Legislature, but only if the teens are in heterosexual relationships. Read More

Legislators grapple with violence and budget crunch

COLUMBIA — As the state faces another tough budget year, Rep. Annette Young said legislators are looking toward the results of a long-term study into alternative sentencing to help protect the community. Read More