Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Tim Scott has shared his views on increasing investment and opportunity in underserved communities through an op-ed published in Fox News. As Black History Month concludes, Scott emphasizes the importance of affordable housing, small business growth, financial inclusion, and expanding Opportunity Zones to support struggling communities nationwide.

Reflecting on his personal history, Scott recounts the sacrifices made by his family that enabled him to succeed. "My grandfather was born in South Carolina in 1921 and was forced out of school in the third grade because there was no need for an 'educated Black boy,'" he shares. Despite these challenges, Scott's grandfather instilled a spirit of resilience in him with advice: "You can be a victim, or you can be victorious – but you cannot be both."

Scott outlines a plan built around three legislative proposals aimed at empowering underserved communities. These include boosting affordable housing through the "ROAD to Housing Act," which seeks to make homeownership more accessible by removing outdated barriers and modernizing public housing.

In addition to housing, Scott focuses on entrepreneurship as a tool for economic mobility. His proposed "Empowering Main Street in America Act" aims to expand capital access for entrepreneurs, particularly those from underserved areas. The bill is supported by fellow Republicans on the Senate Banking Committee.

Scott also highlights the success of his Opportunity Zones initiative, which has attracted nearly $85 billion in investments for distressed communities without displacing residents. He advocates for renewing the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" alongside this initiative to continue driving investments into needy areas.

"The celebration of Black history should not be limited to a single month; it is deeply rooted in our country’s past, and we should cherish it every day," Scott concludes.