SC Senate overrides gov’s veto of I-95 council

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina senators have overridden Gov. Nikki Haley’s veto of a bill meant to coordinate efforts to increase opportunities in poor, rural communities along Interstate 95.

The Senate voted 30-10 on Wednesday to void her veto. Whether the bill becomes law will be decided in the House.

Haley argued the bill unnecessarily increases the size of state government and duplicates what the state commerce and education departments already do.

The bill would create an unpaid, 19-member regional council with a mission of improving the economic and education opportunities along the I-95 corridor.

Senate Minority Leader John Land says it’s meant to create a way for leaders to attract and dispense grants and private capital. He pleaded with senators to give the communities a chance to help themselves.