Senate committee forwards Hope Blackley—s statewide DNR board nomination to full Senate unanimously

The Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee voted unanimously to move Hope Blackley's nomination to the Department of Natural Resources board to the full Senate for confirmation after a short hearing on Oct. 12.

Blackley, a Spartanburg County resident and governmental liaison at South Carolina State University, appeared before the committee, was sworn in, answered committee questions about her background and affiliations, and said she would draw on administrative and regulatory experience while learning more about hunting and fishing matters as needed.

Norman Pulliam, identified in the hearing as a former long-term chairman of the DNR board, told the committee he supported the governor's choice and described Blackley as experienced in state government and active in Spartanburg. Tom Mulligan, introduced at the hearing as the DNR director, was also recognized at the start of the meeting.

Committee staff (Mr. Cole) confirmed the panel had received Blackley's personal data questionnaire, background check, credit report and driving record and asked whether there were changes; Blackley said there were none. Committee members asked about her ties to groups that oppose hunting or fishing; Blackley said she does not have affiliations with groups that oppose hunting or fishing and said she serves on the board of the South Carolina Heritage Corridor. She also described personal outdoor activities such as hiking and camping and said she fished as a child.

Several senators offered endorsements in the hearing. One member said Blackley's prior public-service roles, including time as a clerk of court in Spartanburg and work in congressional offices, made her well suited for the post. Another senator said he would move a favorable report at the appropriate time.

When the committee moved to a vote, members present indicated "aye." The chairman noted the vote was unanimous and recorded proxies from Senators Cromer, Turner and Young in the affirmative.

If the full Senate confirms Blackley, she will join the DNR board as the governor's statewide appointee; committee discussion did not include a formal vote of confirmation, only the committee's favorable report to the Senate.