SC Senators Delay Meeting on Pension Reform

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) _ House members are fuming that senators delayed a meeting on pension reform to recognize retiring colleagues. A meeting to work on a compromise between the chambers’ separate plans was set for Tuesday. It was delayed, then rescheduled for Wednesday. The panel’s Senate members wanted to stay on the floor as the chamber spent five hours honoring retiring members with farewell speeches. House Majority Leader Kenny Bingham says reforming the retirement system is one of the session’s most important issues, and days matter. Retiring Sen. Greg Ryberg says he didn’t know recognitions would be Tuesday, but once they started, it was common courtesy for everyone to stay. He says plenty of time remains. The regular session ends Thursday. The Legislature returns June 19 to deal with bills in conference committee.