What is Act 388? Q&A With our President Donald Weaver
When was Act 388 established and what was the inspiration for its creation?
Act 388 came about as a result of Property Tax Relief Rallies around the state, which would draw hundreds of people (especially We the People in Lexington).
What exactly does Act 388 do?
The bill, which took two years to get through the Legislature, was signed by then Governor Sanford. It was the result of many campaigns. It raised the state’s sales tax from 5% to 6%, and in return reduced owner occupied residential property taxes by almost half! This meant that tenants and tourists were helping to pay the many costs of local government.
Why is Act 388 so important to SCAT? Why should it be important to our taxpayers?
Act 388 is VERY important to South Carolina taxpayers, especially property owners, because it helped spread the burden of paying for local government expenses. Should it ever be repealed, it would more than double an annual property tax bill!
What can we do to protect Act 388?
SCAT is encouraging all taxpayers to contact their legislators along with local officials, and to tell them how much we need to keep Act 388 in place!