COLUMBIA, S.C. — A key deadline that could determine what bills do and don't become laws has passed at the South Carolina State House.
It's known as Crossover Week and lawmakers rush to pass dozens of bills during that time.
The House passed more than 30 bills, including legalizing horse race betting, six weeks of paid family leave for teachers, and eliminating the 6% sales tax on feminine hygiene products.
“The notion of removing the tax on menstrual products is one that is, quite frankly, about equity," said Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter (D-Orangeburg).
The Republican party passed several of its priorities, including the "Transparency in Education Act," a near-total abortion ban, and what proponents call a 'Constitutional Carry' bill.
"Hopefully, we can move a parental bill of rights and get rid of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training," said Freedom Caucus Chairman Rep. R.J. May (R-Lexington).
Abortion legislation remains at a standstill, with the Senate insisting on a six-week ban, and the House refusing to budge on a total ban.
School choice was also a priority for GOP lawmakers who passed two school voucher programs and open enrollment which would allow students to attend any public school in the state.
“Hopefully, we’ll see some great innovation in schools by making it a little bit more competition," said Rep. Bill Hager (R-Hampton).
However, not everyone is a fan of the move.
“Whatever damage is going to be done by funneling tax dollars to private schools, most of my constituents don’t think that’s a good idea," said Cobb-Hunter.
Earlier this year, the state House moved to allow the repeal of a constitutional prohibition on funding private schools with public dollars.
Lawmakers are also close to finalizing the state's $13 billion spending plan, which includes raises for state employees and teachers.
“They're more than deserving. Educators, law enforcement, you know they’re on the front lines daily," said Rep. Leon Howard (D-Richland), who sits on the budget-writing committee.
A bill legalizing medical marijuana, which passed the state Senate last year, is likely dead this year. It's unclear if a bill banning gender-affirming care will garner enough support to be revived, as well.
Whether South Carolina becomes the 49th state to enact hate crimes legislation, also falls on the state Senate, where lawmakers refused to take it up last year.
"Something has to be done because innocent lives are being lost every day in South Carolina," said May.
This is the first year of a two-year session, which means bills stay in whatever place they're at when the legislature adjourns in May.
So far, six bills have been signed into law this year by Gov. Henry McMaster.