State Rep. Jay Kilmartin

S831 passed.

I was initially opposed to this “DOT Modernization” bill as written.

It simply didn’t fix roads. However…..

Thanks to grass roots activists, we actually pulled this off!

YOU were the difference.
Thanks to all your calls and letters, the amended S831 just passed with most of what we wanted.

The Governor can now directly appoint the DOT Secretary — no more Highway Commissioners getting in the way or hiring them.

No CCTM either. They dropped the plan to “offer”state roads onto counties and towns, and county transportation committees won’t be forced to spend 1/3 of their money on state roads anymore.

Any toll road created by a public/private partnership has to be voted on by us, the legislature.

It’s not perfect, but it’s easily 80% better than the original bill.

Now it heads back to the Senate, so keep the pressure up — call, text, or email your senators and tell them to vote yes on this amended version.

Some news worth celebrating!

Did you know Chapin High School cheerleaders have won 17 state championships in the last 21 years across three classifications?

That’s a dynasty.

We’re honored to recognize these athletes, along with their coaches, athletic director, and principal at the State House this week. And just as important... thank you to the parents behind the scenes. The sacrifices you make to support your daughters don’t go unnoticed!

I was also recently honored to kick off the Bible Reading Marathon and close it out in prayer. From Genesis to Revelation, the Word was read continuously on the State House grounds from Sunday to Thursday. Each year, more people are stepping forward to be part of it, and we also spent time praying over our Capitol and our lawmakers.

Thank you to the organizers, Joseph and Tarla Bavar, for your leadership!