As a state representative in South Carolina, Representative Pendarvis has long held the belief that economic empowerment is how we solve out state’s most pressing needs. It’s what he ran on and has been a guiding principle in the legislative work he’s done over the last six years. His goal is to give as many people the tools necessary to be active participants in the economy, thereby giving South Carolina the the framework by which we can build thriving and self-sustaining communities.

Most notably, he has been at the forefront of reimagining how Opportunity Zones look in South Carolina. In 2020, Rep. Pendarvis led a multistate tour of states that have enacted legislation to help “supercharge” opportunities in a way that promotes equitable and sustainable growth. The tour drew the interest of, and led to meetings with, his congressional delegation and the governor’s office. He is most proud of being able to shape the conversation.