Senate leader says no need for special session on flooding

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The leader of the South Carolina Senate says there’s no need for a special session of the Legislature to deal with flooding, since officials do not have estimates on the extent of the problems.

Republican Sen. Hugh Leatherman of Florence told multiple media that lawmakers will have a better idea of what is needed when they return to the Statehouse in January for their regular session.

Gov. Nikki Haley has also said there is not enough information available to call lawmakers into special session now.

Some House members last week called for a special session to borrow money to fix damaged roads and help flood victims.

Leatherman says dealing with the flood will be the top priority when lawmakers return. He says improving schools and roads also will be priorities.