Issue Position: Economy

Issue Position

Richie firmly believes that economic growth via the free enterprise system is the basis of true freedom for all Americans. He believes that excessive government regulations, unnecessary fees, wasteful government spending, burdensome over-taxation and frivolous lawsuits are endangerments to personal liberty and improved quality of life for all South Carolinians. As a fiscal conservative, Richie will support lower taxes, favorable capital gains policies, tort reform, targeted waste/fraud reduction legislation and meaningful government spending reform at all levels.

Richie believes that District 53 has continuously been under-served by its elected state level representatives. Chesterfield and Lancaster Counties are tied for the 14th worst unemployment figures in the state. This is unacceptable.

Richie will vigorously promote District 53 and he will lead the effort to educate the "world" about "us". We have good schools, an enviable quality of life, strong Christian values, a strong work ethic, a diverse economic base and abundant natural resources. Just like South Carolina as a whole, District 53 has a strong base in manufacturing, agriculture and tourism with each of these segments offering tremendous growth opportunities for this area. Through coordinated
cooperation, we will reclaim the high ground of economic development.

Richie has assembled an informal group of District 53 business owners,
professionals and civic leaders that have made themselves available to discuss their concerns, needs and ideas with him on a continual basis. These folks represent a cross section of diverse industries and vocations from across the district. These business owners, educators and executives have shared with Richie many of the issues they face daily. The top three problems as relayed by these community leaders are excessive regulations, high/numerous taxes and energy cost. They also are very apprehensive about health insurance and where that entire industry is headed. Even with the successful repeal of OBAMACARE, we still have major insurance reforms that must be immediately addressed. This group will continue to be invaluable as Richie works in Columbia to help alleviate the problems/obstacles that daily impede their ability to efficiently and successfully get their jobs done.

The newly formed Chesterfield County Economic Development Alliance has a 5-year plan that is inclusive, specific, realistic and very well organized. This public/private partnership is exactly the kind of united effort our area needs to get the economy back on track. It includes major strategies and tactics designed to attract business and capital investment including workforce development education/training, new business recruitment and infrastructure improvements. Richie's involvement will include but not be limited to advocating for state
funded projects, expediting communication with private sector industry leaders and working with all local officials on marketing and educational opportunities.

Tourism is one of the top industries in South Carolina and is growing in
economic importance in District 53. Studies commissioned by several towns in the district have all drawn the conclusion that this area is perfectly positioned to take advantage of our unique terrain, large rural land areas, rich historic legacy and close proximity to large urban populations like Charlotte, Columbia, Greensboro, and Raleigh to enhance our own tourism segment growth.

Some significant strides have already been made with new entities representing world class equestrian, motocross and automotive facilities/events now calling District 53 home. Richie will work diligently to educate everyone about these seemingly hidden treasures and leverage their success into even more economic opportunities.

Agriculture is one of District 53's largest industries and District 53 farmers represent the best in innovation, entrepreneurship and stewardship. The future success of all South Carolina farmers is endangered, as the government seeks to take over farm production with needless, uninformed and often ill-advised regulations. Richie believes government must respect the private property rights of farmers and empower them to make decisions about the most productive use
of their principal asset--their land. As a South Carolina house member, Richie will consistently vote to protect private property rights and leave decisions about how to run farms to our very capable farmers.

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