South Carolina State Representative Lee Hewitt has called on NOAA Fisheries to approve an Exempted Fishing Permit requested by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) for Red Snapper. The permit would allow a 62-day recreational fishing season, replacing the current two-day seasons.
Hewitt stated that there is an abundance and increased size of Red Snapper off the state’s coast. “These fish are being encountered in numbers and sizes that I don’t think have ever been seen off our state before. This is just one of the fish I landed and had to release last summer,” he said.
The SCDNR is working with agencies in North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida on similar pilot programs. These initiatives aim to test improved data collection methods for more accurate tracking of recreational catch, effort, and discard rates. According to Hewitt, a fixed 62-day season could provide economic benefits for both recreational anglers and for-hire fisheries.
Last week, the South Carolina House passed several pieces of legislation affecting families across the state. Among these was major legislation supporting parental rights, agriculture, workers, businesses, and taxpayers.
Hewitt also reported that he joined other members of the Ways and Means Committee in unanimously advancing a $15 billion state budget focused on growth, infrastructure improvements, and tax relief. A full House debate on the budget is scheduled to begin March 9th.
Regarding education policy, Hewitt highlighted passage of the Parental Rights Act: “The House overwhelmingly passed the Parental Rights Act, which I cosponsored, reaffirming a simple but powerful principle: parents have the fundamental right to direct the upbringing, education, and healthcare of their children. This legislation strengthens transparency, reinforces accountability, and ensures parents remain in the driver’s seat.”
On agricultural issues, Hewitt noted approval of two bills designed to protect farmers and consumers. The Ban on Fake Meat Bill prohibits sale of lab-grown meat products in South Carolina: “The House unanimously passed the Ban on Fake Meat Bill…This legislation defends our farmers and ensures honesty and transparency for families who deserve to know exactly what is on their dinner table.” Another measure—the Roadside Markets Bill—removes regulatory barriers for local farmers selling products directly to consumers at roadside markets: “This bill removes burdening regulations, supports family-run operations, and makes it easier for farmers to sell fresh, South Carolina-grown products directly to consumers.”
Hewitt concluded his report by offering assistance to constituents.
