Acting House speaker advocates term limits for job

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The Republican acting as South Carolina’s House speaker recommends putting a term limit on the powerful position.

Speaker Pro Tem Jay Lucas said Tuesday it’s time to ensure that no one person gets a vice grip on the post. He says the longer someone’s in leadership, the more likely the person’s priority shifts to preserving the job.

The recommendation was among 10 Lucas made before a panel he created to consider changing House rules.

Lucas became acting speaker two weeks ago, following the indictment of Speaker Bobby Harrell on misdemeanor charges of misconduct and using campaign donations for personal use. He suspended himself while the case plays out. Harrell became speaker in 2005.

The House will elect a speaker after the November elections. Lucas is among those seeking the job.