 South Carolina Boaters
Let's work to eliminate the property tax on boats.
The following is a letter I sent to my state senator and representative. I invite all to use any or all of it as you see fit and sent it to your elected state representatives.
Dear Senator or Representative:
The current edition of Boat/US Magazine points out that South Carolina’s property tax on boats, at 10.5%, is one of the most onerous taxes in the nation.
If you own a boat for 10 years in South Carolina, you pay for your boat twice: once for the initial purchase, and once to local government by means of property tax.
Recreational boating is an important industry in South Carolina. Major boat manufacturers, such as Beneteau, Scout, Sea Fox, and Stingray are all located in South Carolina. South Carolina, the 26th largest state in the country, ranks 9th in state boat registrations. Thousands of people have jobs in boat factories, boat dealerships, marinas, and related fields.
The boating industry pumps millions and millions of dollars into the state economy.
Yet, South Carolina boaters are faced with one of the highest taxes in the nation.
Reducing this tax would not affect state tax revenues, but would be made up at the local level by a slightly more balanced property tax rate.
In 1993, Rhode Island eliminated sales and property tax on boats. As a result, Rhode Island has attracted over 35 boat manufacturers, and non-residents are keeping their boats in Rhode Island, meaning more business not only for the boating industry, but also for hotels and restaurants.
South Carolina has the opportunity to follow the Rhode Island model. Given the high number of boat owners in your district, I hope that you will work toward eliminating this burdensome tax.
Albin 31
Charleston, SC | 
