It has been a long six days. Endless emails, letters, and phone calls to State Legislatures, Senators, and the Governor by thousands of homeschoolers fighting for the end of H3478. The Facebook page has been hopping with posts on current news about the bill. I have never had the privilege to be this close to a cause. I am truly amazed at the power of homeschoolers.
Late today, we have received word that Rep. Brannon (author of H3478) has written a letter to Rep. Phil Owens, the chairman of the Education and Public Works Committee and to Rep. Andy Patrick, the chairman of the K-12 Subcommittee. This was what Rep. Brannon had to say:
"I write to ask that H. 3478 remain in subcommittee without
hearing. I no longer support this bill in its current form and do not
want the bill to become law. I’ve talked with Representatives Horne and
Anthony and have informed them of my decision. They both concur."
Don't do a victory dance just yet. Read between the lines. He no longer supports the bill in its current form. Key words: Current Form.
Rep. Brannon has heard the masses of homeschoolers in the state of South Carolina. He is trying to appease us and 'kill' the bill. H3478 will never truly be dead. Like a phoenix it will rise again, just in another form.
We must be vigilant and watch for the next piece of proposed legislation from Representatives Brannon, Horne, Anthony, or anyone else. If we become complacent, the wolf may just slip through the door!
