SC Senate overturns veto, sends $10M to Commerce

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The South Carolina Senate has voted to use $10 million from a national mortgage settlement to close economic development deals.

The 28-13 vote Wednesday overrode the governor’s veto, transferring part of the state’s expected $31 million share to the Commerce Department.

The item brought the most debate of the day.

Gov. Nikki Haley argues it’s morally wrong to send money to Commerce that’s meant to help people in foreclosure. She notes the budget would still provide $15 million to the agency’s closing fund.

Her veto message brought agreement from Democrats and opposition from fellow Republicans, who argued transferring the money to Commerce would bring the jobs people need to pay their mortgages.

Sen. Chip Campsen argues that’s the only practical way to distribute the funds to benefit all residents.