The Senate Finance Committee's Property Tax Subcommittee convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss significant issues affecting the boating community in South Carolina. Key stakeholders, including representatives from the Coastal Conservation Association, BoatUS, and the National Marine Manufacturers Association, urged the committee to support a proposed bill aimed at addressing tax disparities for boat owners.

During the meeting, advocates highlighted the inequity faced by boat owners who pay significantly higher taxes based solely on their location, with some paying three to seven times more than others for the same boat on the same lake. They emphasized that this bill would send a clear message that South Carolina is welcoming to boaters and committed to tax fairness.

Eddie Taylor, a boat owner, also participated in the discussion, providing personal insights into the challenges faced by the boating community. The committee members engaged with the speakers, asking questions to better understand the implications of the proposed legislation.

The outcome of this meeting could have lasting effects on the boating industry in South Carolina, as the committee considers the bill that aims to create a more equitable tax structure for boat owners across state lines. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed legislation and its potential impact on local businesses and recreational boating.