A senate RESOLUTION

TO CONGRATULATE the National Conference of State Legislatures UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS fiftieth ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND the organization FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are pleased to recognize the National Conference of State Legislatures as it celebrates this important milestone; and

Whereas, the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) was founded in 1975, and has evolved during the past half-century to become the premier organization solely dedicated to serving state and territorial legislators and legislative staff; and

Whereas, NCSL was created from the merger of three organizations that served or represented state legislatures and that shared the belief that legislative service is one of democracy's worthiest pursuits; and

Whereas, a bipartisan organization, NCSL has three objectives: to advance the effectiveness, independence, and integrity of state legislatures; to foster interstate communication and cooperation; and to ensure states a strong, cohesive voice in the federal system; and

Whereas, our nation's state legislatures are America's laboratories of democracy and have continually shown that they are the bodies to tackle emerging challenges. State legislatures are where people from very different backgrounds, representing very different communities, can come together and find common ground; and

Whereas, over the years, NCSL has facilitated the exchange of ideas, provided critical research and information, and encouraged a rigorous review of complex issues confronting our communities, states, and nation. NCSL also strives to strengthen the bonds between America's state legislatures and the international community; and

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate greatly appreciate the dedication and commitment of the National Conference of State Legislatures to serving the people and the State of South Carolina.  Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, congratulate the National Conference of State Legislatures upon the occasion of its fiftieth anniversary and commend the organization for its many years of dedicated service to the people and the State of South Carolina.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the president of the National Conference of State Legislatures.

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