South-Carolina

S.C. must weigh economic impact of its abortion restrictions; here’s why

Published

2 years ago

July 7, 2024

S.C. must weigh economic impact of its abortion restrictions; here’s why

Dr. Amalia Luxardo
| CEO, Women’s Rights & Empowerment Network

Two years ago, the Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade, fundamentally altering women’s rights across the nation. As I returned to work from maternity leave, the weight of having fewer rights than just weeks before filled me with rage and sorrow. However, today I’m not writing about bodily autonomy, but about the long-term economic implications of abortion restrictions.

As a numbers person, I find it economically illogical to restrict — let alone ban — abortion. According to a recent publication by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, should abortion restrictions reach a national scale, the United States would suffer a near $173 billion economic loss. For South Carolina in particular, our projected annual loss is nearly $3 billion. This staggering figure suggests that our lawmakers, in their perceived focus on moral and ethical considerations, might not have carefully considered the economic ramifications of these restrictive measures.

More: SC Senate passes six-week abortion ban. New litigation expected after Gov. signs into law.

Let’s break down the potential impact on South Carolina’s workforce. There are approximately 1.38 million women participating in our state’s workforce, with nearly one-third ages 20 to 35 — the group in which most abortions were performed. In 2022, the South Carolina Department of Health reported 5,568 abortions, mostly from families who already have children. If we removed just these individuals from the workforce, South Carolina would lose more than $211 million per year (based on a median income of $38,000).

This figure doesn’t account for any supplemental public benefits these families might need if another child pushes them into poverty. Based on average SNAP benefits alone, it could cost South Carolina an additional $1,392,000 annually — not including medical coverage, cash assistance, or child-care scholarships. Over five years, the minimum economic impact could reach $1,064,880,000.

Moreover, while recent stories reported a drastic 80% drop in abortion rates in South Carolina, they fail to mention that more than 8,000 individuals sought abortions in neighboring states like North Carolina. This not only represents a significant economic outflow, but also places additional burdens on those seeking care.

These economic realities are stark, but they raise deeper questions: What do South Carolinians truly value? We live in a state of perpetual dichotomy. We claim to prioritize family values but don’t provide the support systems that families need, like universal child care. We talk about protecting children, but our governor rejected federal funds for a program offering food assistance to needy families during the summer months when schools are closed.

For years, the Women’s Rights and Empowerment Network (WREN) fought to remove the sales tax from essential period products in the same year that our representatives passed legislation approving aerial hunting of feral hogs. This disconnect between our stated values and our lawmakers’ legislative priorities is striking.

And the ripple effects of these restrictions extend far beyond immediate economic impacts, affecting our entire state:

Health care: Our medical system faces potential deterioration as professionals leave for states where they can provide comprehensive reproductive care. This exodus, coupled with fewer incoming medical students and residents, could lead to provider shortages and reduced quality of care for everyone.
Education: Restricted access to reproductive healthcare could widen educational gaps. Teenage parents already face challenges in continuing their education, leading to higher dropout rates and delayed pursuit of higher education. This affects future earnings and economic mobility, creating a cycle of disadvantage.
Business and employment: Companies may hesitate to locate or expand in a state with such restrictions, affecting job opportunities for everyone.
Public resources: The increased strain on health care and social services could likely lead to higher taxes or reduced services for all citizens, regardless of gender or reproductive status.

The economic fall of South Carolina isn’t a distant possibility – it’s a looming threat if we continue down this path. It’s time for all South Carolinians, regardless of personal beliefs about abortion, to seriously consider the economic consequences of these policies. Are we prepared to sacrifice billions in economic activity, strain our public resources, and potentially drive away job-creating businesses?

As we approach the polls and engage with our representatives, let’s demand policies that support not just our values, but our economic well-being. The prosperity of our state and the welfare of all its citizens depend on it.

We must act now to prevent South Carolina from falling into a preventable economic decline. Our future depends on it.

Dr. Amalia Luxardo is chief executive officer for the Women’s Rights & Empowerment Network (WREN) in South Carolina.

Source link

Click to comment

South-Carolina

How to watch Tennessee Volunteers: Live stream info, TV channel, game time | March 3

Published

55 minutes ago

March 3, 2026

Press Room

How to watch Tennessee Volunteers: Live stream info, TV channel, game time | March 3

The college basketball slate on Tuesday will include Mike Sharavjamts and the South Carolina Gamecocks (12-17, 3-13 SEC) hosting Nate Ament and the No. 25 Tennessee Volunteers (20-9, 10-6 SEC) at Colonial Life Arena, with the matchup tipping at 6 p.m. ET.

See more details below, including how to watch this game on SEC Network.

Here’s everything you need to prepare for Tuesday’s college hoops action.

South Carolina vs. Tennessee: How to watch on TV or live stream

Game day: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Game time: 6 p.m. ET
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
Arena: Colonial Life Arena
TV Channel: SEC Network
Live stream: Fubo – Watch NOW (Regional restrictions may apply)

Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Watch college basketball on Fubo!

Tennessee vs. South Carolina stats and trends

Tennessee is averaging 80.1 points per game (87th-ranked in college basketball) this year, while ceding 69.2 points per contest (62nd-ranked).
The Volunteers are dominating when it comes to rebounding, as they rank third-best in college basketball in boards (40.1 per game) and second-best in boards allowed (25.8 per contest).
Tennessee ranks 32nd in the country with 17.0 assists per game.
The Volunteers are committing 11.6 turnovers per game (240th-ranked in college basketball). They are forcing 10.6 turnovers per contest (231st-ranked).
Tennessee is making 6.8 threes per game (279th-ranked in college basketball). It has a 34.3% shooting percentage (167th-ranked) from three-point land.
With 7.9 threes conceded per game, the Volunteers rank 196th in the country. They are giving up a 30.5% shooting percentage from three-point land, which ranks 29th in college basketball.
Tennessee is attempting 41.3 two-pointers per game this year, which account for 67.7% of the shots it has taken (and 76.2% of the team’s baskets). Meanwhile, it is attempting 19.7 three-pointers per contest, which are 32.3% of its shots (and 23.8% of the team’s buckets).

Tennessee vs. South Carolina Odds and Spread

Spread Favorite: Volunteers (-8.5)
Moneyline: Tennessee (-437), South Carolina (+328)
Total: 143.5 points

NCAA Basketball odds courtesy of BetMGM Sportsbook. Odds updated Tuesday at 1:12 a.m. ET. For a full list of sports betting odds, access USA TODAY Sports Betting Scores Odds Hub.

Watch college basketball on Fubo!

Follow the latest college sports coverage at College Sports Wire.

Source link

South-Carolina

Bombing of Iran could mean South Carolinians paying more for gas

Published

13 hours ago

March 2, 2026

Press Room

Bombing of Iran could mean South Carolinians paying more for gas

U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran have caused a sharp rise in global energy prices.
Analysts predict gas prices will rise in the U.S., including in South Carolina.
The conflict has disrupted oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global transit route.
South Carolina’s average gas price remains lower than the national average, which is approaching $3 per gallon.

An escalating conflict involving U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in March 2026 has initiated a sharp rise in global energy prices.

Analysts predict a significant uptick in U.S. gasoline prices, including in South Carolina, which often has some of the lowest gas prices in the country.

As of March 2026, AAA reports the national average for regular gasoline is $2.997 per gallon.

Based on projections released earlier this year in the Short-Term Energy Outlook, 2026 was initially forecast to have lower gas prices than 2025. With an expected 6% decrease, translating into approximately a 20-cent-per-gallon drop.

However, due to the conflict, these projections are now uncertain, and prices may not follow the anticipated trend.

“The national average price of gasoline has climbed for a fourth straight week, driven primarily by seasonal tightening and broader market dynamics,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

In the week ahead, De Han stated, gasoline prices are likely to face heightened upward pressure as seasonal trends continue and markets navigate this evolving geopolitical landscape, with the national average poised to reach the $3-per-gallon mark for the first time this year.

“Looking ahead, markets will now begin reacting to this weekend’s U.S.-Iran attacks, which have elevated geopolitical risk premiums even in the absence of immediate supply disruption,” said De Haan. “Oil prices have firmed as traders assess the potential for further escalation, and while fundamentals such as inventories and refinery activity remain important anchors, the risk of broader instability, particularly involving key transit routes, has injected fresh uncertainty into energy markets.”

Here’s what South Carolinians need to know.

How much is gas in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s average gasoline price remains significantly lower than the national average.

In South Carolina, the average price for regular gasoline currently stands at $2.666 per gallon, according to AAA. Mid-grade gasoline is priced at $3.099, premium gasoline is $3.494, and diesel is priced at $3.505.

Gas price hikes anticipated as bombing continue in Iran

South Carolina drivers should consider filling up their gas tanks soon to avoid potential price spikes.

Analysts expect crude oil, which ended trading on Friday, Feb. 27, at about $67 a barrel, to open this week at $90 or higher as traders process the news that Iranian forces have restricted traffic through the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

Why are gas prices rising?

Iran is a major oil producer, and the ongoing conflict has disrupted the flow of oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz, where 20% of the world’s oil passes, according to reports from USA TODAY.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has warned vessels to avoid the area, and major shipping companies like Maersk have suspended all crossings. Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates send most of their oil exports through there.

This disruption has and could continue to reduce supply, driving prices up as demand remains steady.

“Too many global economies depend on that corridor to remain blocked,” De Haan said. “Markets price high transaction costs and additional uncertainty, he says, but he is not expecting full closure.”

If access through the strait is limited for an extended period, prices could rise “materially above $100/barrel,” said analysts at TD Securities in a March 1 note.

On the other hand, if access through the strait is guaranteed and hostilities cease, the added costs to account for the extra risk could evaporate in a matter of weeks, the TD team wrote.

“If it becomes clear this week that the tensions with Iran are short-lived, then oil prices will come back to the 60s,” said Rob Thummel, portfolio manager at $9 billion investment manager Tortoise Capital, in emailed remarks to USA TODAY.

Has South Carolina hit highest record average gas prices?

Despite the current spike in gas prices due to the conflict, South Carolina has not yet surpassed its highest recorded average prices, according to AAA.

The record for regular unleaded gasoline in the state was $4.609 per gallon on June 12, 2022.

Diesel hit a peak of $5.638 per gallon on June 10, 2022.

March gas price outlook: What drivers need to know about gas prices

As reported by USA TODAY on Feb. 28, the national average for U.S. gas prices is likely to push above $3 a gallon on March 2 for the first time this year.

Over the next couple of weeks, prices will likely hit at least $3.10 to $3.15 a gallon.

There’s also a normal seasonal increase in gas prices around this time of year, driven by seasonal pipeline maintenance, the transition to more expensive summer-blend fuel, and an increase in driving, according to GasBuddy analysis.

Rob Thummel, portfolio manager at $9 billion investment manager Tortoise Capital, expects gas prices to rise in roughly the same rate as oil prices over the coming weeks.

If crude jumps 10%, gas prices will as well, said Thummel.

Upstate SC Gas landscape

According to GasBuddy, in Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson, gas prices have shown similar trends to the national average, with drivers experiencing gradual increases at the pump.

Upstate South Carolina stations are adjusting prices in response to crude oil fluctuations and seasonal factors. Here’s the latest prices as of Mondy, March 2 at noon:

Greenville gas prices

Stop-A-Minit: 1091 S Piedmont Hwy., recently reported $2.47
Power Trac: 470 Bessie Road, recently reported $2.47
BP: 1631 White Horse Road, recently reported $2.49
Payal Express Mart: 1800 Easley Bridge Road, recently reported $2.49

Spartanburg gas prices

QuikTrip: 21 Fairview Church Road, recently reported $2.26
Walmart Neighborhood Market: 201 Cedar Springs Road, recently reported $2.27
Costco Wholesale: 211 W Blackstock Road, recently reported $2.31
Sam’s Club, 200 Peachwood Center Drive, recently reported $2.31

Anderson gas prices

Spinix: 3221 S Murray Ave., recently reported $2.31.
Raceway: 4606 Clemson Blvd., recently reported $2.34.
BP: 501 E Greenville St., recently reported $2.39.
Sam’s Club: 3812 Liberty Hwy., recently reported $2.44

Travis Jacque Rose is the trending news reporter for the Greenville News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at trose@gannett.com

Source link

South-Carolina

Rev. Jesse Jackson returns home to South Carolina to lie in state

Published

1 day ago

March 2, 2026

Press Room

Rev. Jesse Jackson returns home to South Carolina to lie in state

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — After a long career of fighting for civil rights, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. is visiting his home for one last time to lie in state at the South Carolina capitol on Monday.

The final full honors from the state where he was born is a far cry from his childhood in segregated Greenville, where in 1960 he couldn’t go inside the local library’s much better funded whites-only branch to check out a book he needed.

Jackson led seven Black high school students into that segregated branch, where they sat down and read books and magazines until they were arrested. The branches closed, then quietly reopened for all.

With that action, Jackson launched his career — and crusade — fighting for equality for all. He would catch the attention of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and join the voting rights march King led from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.

Jackson died Feb. 17 at age 84 after battling a rare neurological disorder that affected his mobility and ability to speak in his later years.

The South Carolina services are part of two weeks of events. It began with Jackson’s body lying in repose and the public invited last week to his Rainbow PUSH Coalition’s Chicago headquarters.

After South Carolina, Jackson will be returned to Chicago for a large celebration of life gathering at a megachurch and the final homegoing services at the headquarters of Rainbow PUSH. Plans for a service in Washington, D.C., to honor him have been postponed until a later date.

Nationally, Jackson advocated for the poor and underrepresented for voting rights, job opportunities, education and health care. He scored diplomatic victories with world leaders.

Trough his Rainbow PUSH Coalition, he channeled cries for Black pride and self-determination into corporate boardrooms, pressuring executives to make America a more open and equitable society. He stepped forward as the Civil Rights Movement’s torchbearer after King’s assassination, and would run for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988.

Jackson continued to be active in his home state, pushing in 2003 for Greenville County to honor King by matching the federal holiday in his honor and in 2015 by advocating for removing the Confederate flag from South Carolina Statehouse grounds after nine Black worshipers were killed in a racist shooting at a Charleston church.

Jackson is just the second Black man to lie in state at the South Carolina capitol. State Sen. Clementa Pinckney was honored in 2015 after he was shot and killed in the Charleston church shooting.

___

Associated Press writer Sophia Tareen in Chicago contributed to this report.

Source link