This week, members of the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police took a powerful step in advocating for law enforcement by spending a full day at the Statehouse. From early morning conversations at our Legislative Breakfast to direct engagement with lawmakers, this event underscored the FOP’s unwavering commitment to ensuring law enforcement officers have the support, resources, and legislative backing they need.
A Strong Showing from the FOP
Members from all across the state—including representatives from our Legislative Committee, State Board, and local lodges—came together to make our presence known. Alongside our lobbyist firm, Stewart Konduros and Associates, we engaged in meaningful conversations with legislators and their staff, ensuring that the concerns of South Carolina’s law enforcement community remain front and center.
High-Level Support from the General Assembly
The impact of our advocacy was clear from the very beginning. The first person through the door at our Legislative Breakfast was Senator Thomas Alexander, President of the Senate, who reaffirmed his support for law enforcement. His attendance set the tone for a morning filled with productive discussions on the critical legislation that affects officers across the state.
Throughout the breakfast, we distributed one-sheets outlining our legislative priorities, equipping lawmakers with clear, actionable information on the issues that matter most. Our efforts didn’t stop at breakfast—this was just the start of a full day dedicated to amplifying the FOP’s voice in the halls of the Statehouse.
Advocating for Stronger Laws
One of the major highlights of the day came when Representative Luck invited the FOP to speak before a subcommittee hearing testimony on vehicle pursuits. This presented a key opportunity to advocate for H3127, a bill that would increase penalties for offenders who flee from law enforcement. The message was clear: officers put their lives on the line to protect the public, and the consequences for those who endanger them by refusing to stop must be stronger.
A Moment of Recognition for Law Enforcement
Our presence at the Statehouse did not go unnoticed. Later in the day, Representative Mark Smith—this year’s FOP Legislator of the Year—recognized the Fraternal Order of Police on the floor of the House. The response was overwhelming. Every member of the House stood in applause, showing their appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of law enforcement officers.
Not long after, Senator Brian Adams echoed this recognition on the Senate Floor, further cementing the impact of our advocacy efforts. These moments serve as a powerful reminder that when we stand together, our voice is heard.
Our Efforts Are Paying Off
Leading up to this event, FOP members worked tirelessly to call legislators and encourage their attendance—and it paid off. Many lawmakers personally expressed their appreciation for the outreach and emphasized how much those calls mattered. This proves that direct engagement makes a difference and strengthens our ability to influence policy decisions that impact law enforcement.
Building on This Momentum
This Legislative Breakfast was a success, but it is just one step in a much larger effort. Advocacy is not a one-time event—it’s a continuous commitment. That’s why we’ve already secured our 2026 Legislative Breakfast, ensuring that we maintain a strong and consistent presence in the legislative process.
Now, more than ever, it is crucial for our members to stay engaged. Whether it’s attending events, reaching out to legislators, or simply staying informed, every effort contributes to strengthening our collective voice.
The FOP will continue to fight for the rights, safety, and well-being of South Carolina’s law enforcement officers. Together, we are making a difference.
