The South Carolina Freedom Caucus has filed a lawsuit against the House Ethics Commission to be recognized as a full legislative caucus. The lawsuit has been filed in federal court and lists the House Ethics Committee as defendants.
The Freedom Caucus is classified as a “special legislative interest caucus” and state law specifically forbids it from raising money and participating in any activity that would influence the outcome of an election or ballot measure.
Representative Adam Morgan (R – 20), Chairman of the SC Freedom Caucus said “South Carolina law prohibits the Freedom Caucus from enjoying the same privileges as other caucuses. Caucuses formed on the basis of political party, race, and gender can engage in core political speech, raise money, and influence the outcome of an election. Caucuses formed on the basis of conservative ideology cannot” and “That violates the First Amendment.”
