Although the higher gas tax may have more of a “surplus” than originally predicted, it is the intent of the general assembly to actually have some fiscal responsibility and some reserves in case of an unintended tragedy like a pandemic.

With the conservative approach that SC continues to take, it sets us up to be ready and responsible for events like the ones happening now. This money will not be just thrown out like we have seen from the federal level where there apparently isn’t any thought of the debt we are incurring for our children and grandchildren.

Our constitution requires SC to have a balanced budget and the extra monies that come in, although unpredicted, will go to ensure that we are ready not reactive.

SC Rep. Chris Wooten, Lexington