Sprinkler bill could still become law in S.C.
By Martha Entwistle
Updated Thu June 19, 2008
COLUMBIA, S.C.--A bill that would give tax credits to businesses and individuals who install sprinkler systems still has a chance to become law this year when the Legislature reconvenes June 25 to consider vetoed bills.
At least two state legislators have gone on record saying that they believe the Legislature will override Gov. Mark Sanford's June 11 veto of the bill.
Sen. Danny Verdin of Laurens told Security Systems News, "It is my expectation that next Wednesday, the 25th, the South Carolina General Assembly will overwhelmingly vote to override the gubernatorial veto of the sprinkler bill."
Similarly, Rep Harry Cato of Travelers Rest told Greenvilleonline.com that he would be "shocked" if the S.C. House did not override the veto.
The bill would have given homeowners and business owners a 50 percent tax credit for retrofitting with sprinklers, 25 percent would come from the state and 25 percent would come from the local jurisdiction. The incentives would have to be approved by the local jurisdiction. In addition, the incentive would not apply in jurisdictions where sprinklers are required by law.
The governor applauded the intent of the bill, but said it was too large and amounted to a "subsidy" rather than an incentive.
Comments