South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

South Carolina House Bill H5508

Introduced
4/14/26  

Caption

A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND ALAYSHA MAPLE FOR BEING NAMED THE 2025 DAILY JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA PRESS ASSOCIATION.

Summary

H5508 is a simple House resolution honoring Alaysha Maple, the Next Gen News Editor and public safety and arts and entertainment reporter for the Sumter Item, for being named the 2025 Daily Journalist of the Year by the South Carolina Press Association. The resolution recites her background, professional achievements, award-winning reporting, mentorship of student interns, and community involvement, and formally commends her for excellence in journalism. The measure does not create new law, appropriate funds, or alter state policy. Instead, it serves as a ceremonial recognition by the House of Representatives and directs that a copy of the resolution be presented to Maple. Its practical effect is limited to public acknowledgment and legislative commendation of an individual journalist and her work.

Impact

H5508 has no substantive impact on South Carolina statutes, regulations, or government programs. As a commemorative resolution, it does not amend the code, impose duties, or change rights for any person or entity. Its effect is symbolic, reflecting the House’s recognition of journalistic achievement and community service.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and celebratory. The bill text praises Maple’s reporting, professionalism, mentorship, and community engagement, and there is no indication of opposition or controversy in the available context. No votes or committee transcripts are provided, but the measure appears to be a consensual honorary resolution.

Contention

There are no notable points of contention in the available materials. Because the resolution is honorary and nonbinding, it does not appear to raise policy disputes, fiscal concerns, or legal objections. The only emphasis is on Maple’s distinction as the first Black woman to receive the award and the first Sumter Item reporter to do so, which is presented as a point of recognition rather than disagreement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SC SR113

Commend South Panola High School Senior Gabriella Russo for receiving "Mississippi High School Journalist of the Year" Award.

SC H5703

Dr. Akil E. Ross, SC Superintendent of the Year

SC H3822

Tracie Swilley 2025 National High School Principal of the Year

SC H5297

Taylor Rivers

SC H5715

A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE CHAD SARVIS, AYNOR HIGH SCHOOL HEAD BASEBALL COACH, ON BEING NAMED 2026 CLASS AAA STATE BASEBALL COACH OF THE YEAR BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA BASEBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION.

SC H5375

Louis Berry, Farmer of the Year

SC H5038

Robert Clark- Veteran of the Year

SC H4500

Rita Wilson, SC Female Small Business Owner of the Year

SC H5601

Christie Palladino 2027 SC Teacher of the Year

SC H3816

Tessie Bridges, SC Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year

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