The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed business leaders and community members on June 10 for a Legislative Update focused on the public policy decisions shaping the future of the Grand Strand and supporting the region's tourism-driven economy.
Led by Chamber President Jimmy Gray and Advocacy Manager Robert Whitehurst, the session provided an overview of the June 9 primary elections and the recently concluded South Carolina legislative session.
Discussion included policies that help tourism work for the Grand Strand by supporting local businesses, creating jobs, investing in infrastructure and enhancing quality of life for residents.
South Carolina Tax Relief for Businesses & Residents:
- Income Tax Reform, signed into law on March 30, created a new two-bracket system where 43 percent of South Carolina taxpayers receive a cut.
- Small Business Property Tax, signed May 22 and effective July 1, reduced tax on business equipment and furniture, adds exemptions on business personal property, provides direct benefit for retailers, restaurants and hospitality businesses, has immediate relief for Main Street.
- Boat & Watercraft Tax, signed March 2026, initiates a phased reduction rate cut from 10.5 percent to 6 percent. Saves money for marinas, boat owners and rentals.
The presentation also highlighted transportation initiatives, including reforms at the South Carolina Department of Transportation and new tools to accelerate road improvements needed to accommodate the region's continued growth.
A focus of the update was the Chamber's ongoing advocacy for investments that strengthen the visitor economy and benefit residents. Topics included tourism marketing funding, beach renourishment, natural gas capacity improvements, workforce development and efforts to protect the natural assets that make the Grand Strand a premier destination.
The discussion reinforced the priorities outlined in the Chamber's 2026 Advocacy Agenda, including maintaining a thriving business climate, building critical infrastructure, protecting the coast, improving quality of life and pursuing transformational projects through strong regional partnerships.
As highlighted throughout the session, when tourism succeeds, the entire community benefits through increased investment, job creation, enhanced public services and a stronger local economy.
