Equality Brief: Edition 6

Welcome back to The Equality Brief

Welcome back to The Equality Brief, AFFA’s regular update bringing you the latest in LGBTQ+ policy, advocacy, and community news across South Carolina. As legislative threats continue to mount, we remain committed to keeping you informed and equipped to take action.

New Attacks on LGBTQ+ Youth and Local Governance

In just the past 24 hours, South Carolina’s LGBTQ+ community has been dealt two serious blows. Attorney General Alan Wilson sent a letter to Columbia City Council urging them to repeal their ordinance banning conversion therapy for minors—an ordinance designed to protect youth from a practice widely condemned by major medical and mental health organizations. This move directly undermines local efforts to create safer, healthier communities for queer youth. You can read the letter here.

In tandem with this, a new budget amendment was introduced at the state level that would penalize municipalities like Columbia for passing these protections. Under this amendment, cities could face the loss or clawback of critical state funds simply for choosing to protect their residents. This is both an attack on LGBTQ+ youth and an attempt to strip local governments of their power to act in the public’s interest.

We're closely monitoring these developments, and we’ll share action items as more details emerge.

H.3927 on Hold—But Not Gone

H.3927, the anti-DEI bill that passed the House earlier this session, has not yet moved out of committee in the South Carolina Senate. While this delay is encouraging, the bill remains a serious threat. If advanced, it would dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across schools, colleges, and state agencies—restricting training, programming, and even public discussion of race, gender, and LGBTQ+ identities.

There’s still time to speak up. Tell your senators to reject this harmful bill.

Senate Votes to Remove State Treasurer Curtis Loftis

In a historic move, the South Carolina Senate voted 33–8 to remove State Treasurer Curtis Loftis from office following the discovery of a $1.8 billion accounting error. The discrepancy, which went unreported for years, stemmed from unbalanced entries during a system transition and was uncovered by forensic accountants. Loftis is accused of neglecting his duties and failing to inform lawmakers of the issue. He denies wrongdoing. The matter now goes to the House, which must approve the removal by a two-thirds vote. If that happens, it will mark the first time in state history that a public official has been removed through this process.

The Finish Line is in Sight

With just a few weeks left in the 2025 legislative session, we’re entering the final push. A lot can still happen—both good and bad—and every call, email, and public statement continues to make a difference. If you’re feeling exhausted, know that you’re not alone. The pace has been intense, but our community is still showing up, and that matters. Hang on—we’re almost there.

Stay Connected

• Be informed – Follow AFFA and our advocacy partners for the latest updates.

• Take action – Call your representatives, attend advocacy events, and amplify LGBTQ+ voices.

• Support one another – Check in with your friends, family, and colleagues.

• Get involved – Volunteer with AFFA, donate, and be a part of the movement.

A Final Note

In moments like these—when LGBTQ+ protections are under threat and basic rights are up for debate—your voice and your presence matter more than ever. We’ll keep you informed, and we’ll continue to show up together.

Take care of yourself, stay connected, and remember:

You can’t pour from an empty cup.

In solidarity,

The AFFA Action Team