The bill, H. 4486, is a House Resolution introduced in the South Carolina General Assembly to honor the life and legacy of the Honorable Joseph Hayne Rainey on the occasion of his birthday, June 21. Rainey, born into slavery in Georgetown, South Carolina, in 1832, became a significant figure in American politics as the first African American to serve in the United States House of Representatives. His contributions during the Reconstruction era included championing racial equality, advocating for public education, and defending the constitutional rights of all Americans, which have left a lasting impact on the state and the nation.

The resolution expresses the pride of the South Carolina House of Representatives in recognizing Rainey's historic contributions and the inspiration he provides to current and future leaders. It concludes with a directive to present a copy of the resolution to the Joseph Rainey Center for Public Policy, an institution dedicated to empowering civic-minded public servants, thereby ensuring that Rainey's legacy continues to influence the pursuit of justice and equality.