Bills & Legislation

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-67-520, RELATING TO THE TRANSPORTATION OF HANDICAPPED SCHOOL-AGE PERSONS ON PUBLIC SCHOOL BUSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PUBLIC SCHOOL BUS THAT TRANSPORTS ONE OR MORE CERTAIN HANDICAPPED PERSONS MUST HAVE AN ADULT ATTENDANT TO ACCOMPANY THE PERSON OR PERSONS ON THE BUS WHILE BEING TRANSPORTED, TO PROVIDE THE SCHOOL BUS DRIVER MAY NOT SIMULTANEOUSLY SERVE AS AN ATTENDANT, AND TO PROVIDE BUSES MAY HAVE MULTIPLE ATTENDANTS BUT ARE ONLY REQUIRED TO HAVE ONE ATTENDANT.

Special needs student school bus attendants

Richard L. "Richie" YowRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-440, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE AND SUMMARY COURT JURISDICTION FOR THIS OFFENSE, SO AS TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR PERSONS WHO VIOLATE THIS PROVISION AND ALSO ARE FOUND TO BE UNDOCUMENTED ILLEGAL ALIENS.

Driving without a license

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-67-520, RELATING TO THE TRANSPORTATION OF HANDICAPPED PERSONS ON PUBLIC SCHOOL BUSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS WHO PROVIDE SUCH TRANSPORTATION HAVE A LEGITIMATE EDUCATIONAL INTEREST IN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE BEHAVIOR OR HEALTH OF THE HANDICAPPED STUDENTS THAT COULD HAVE A HEALTH OR SAFETY IMPACT, AND MUST BE GIVEN SUMMARIES OF SUCH INFORMATION BY SCHOOL DISTRICTS.

Handicapped student information for school bus safety

Richard L. "Richie" YowRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 47-5-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE UNDER THE INDIRECT SUPERVISION OF A VETERINARIAN, CERTAIN ANIMAL CONTROL AUTHORITY OFFICIALS MAY ADMINISTER RABIES VACCINATIONS.

Rabies vaccinations

William H. BaileyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-520 SO AS TO PROVIDE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO DRIVE MOTOR VEHICLES WITH DRIVERS' LICENSES NOT RECOGNIZED IN THIS STATE AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY.

Driver's licenses

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 46-3-290 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF THE "CERTIFIED SC GROWN" DESIGNATION ON FOOD OR FOOD PRODUCTS THAT CONTAIN MESSENGER RIBONUCLEIC ACID AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

Certified SC Grown designation

James Mikell "Mike" BurnsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 24-3-185 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS SHALL PROVIDE INMATES CERTAIN INFORMATION REGARDING THE RESTORATION OF THEIR VOTING RIGHTS UPON THEIR RELEASE FROM CUSTODY.

Inmate voting rights

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-14-170 SO AS TO PROVIDE IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR MANUFACTURERS, FACTORY BRANCHES, FACTORY REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRIBUTORS, WHOLESALERS, DISTRIBUTOR BRANCHES, DISTRIBUTOR REPRESENTATIVES, OR RECREATIONAL VEHICLE DEALERS TO ENGAGE IN UNFAIR METHODS OF COMPETITION AND UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE ACTS OR PRACTICES, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

Unfair trade practices

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE ARTICLE, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERMS "ASSAULT WEAPON" AND "HIGH-CAPACITY MAGAZINES"; AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 16-23-220, 16-23-230, AND 16-23-240, ALL RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL TRANSPORTATION, STORING, KEEPING, OR POSSESSING, AND SALE, RENTAL, OR GIVING AWAY OF MACHINE GUNS, MILITARY FIREARMS, SAWED-OFF SHOTGUNS OR RIFLES, RESPECTIVELY, ALL SO AS TO INCLUDE ASSAULT WEAPONS AND HIGH-CAPACITY MAGAZINES IN THE LIST OF ITEMS BANNED BY THE PROVISIONS OF THE STATUTES.

Firearms

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 53-5-10, RELATING TO STATE LEGAL HOLIDAYS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE NINETEENTH DAY OF JUNE - JUNETEENTH SHALL BE A STATE LEGAL HOLIDAY.

Establish Junteenth as a State holiday

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 26-1-100, RELATING TO FEES FOR NOTARIAL ACTS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM FEES THAT NOTARIES MAY CHARGE FOR NOTARIAL ACTS TO TEN DOLLARS.

Notary fees

Thomas R. "Randy" LigonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-450 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION SHALL DEVELOP AND MANAGE A STATEWIDE SEXUAL EXTORTION INVESTIGATION AND OUTCOME DATABASE.

Sexual extortion database

Brandon GuffeyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-80-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES THROUGH WHICH A FIRE DEPARTMENT THAT ASSUMES THE COST OF TRAINING A FIREFIGHTER MAY BE REIMBURSED FOR THESE COSTS BY OTHER FIRE DEPARTMENTS THAT SUBSEQUENTLY HIRE THE FIREFIGHTER WITHIN A CERTAIN PERIOD OF TIME.

Firefighter training reimbursement

Steven Wayne LongRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "TRUMP CRIMINAL BACKGROUND RECORDS CHECK BAN ACT"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-35 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE REHABILITATION OF CRIMINAL OFFENDERS AND TO ASSIST THEM IN THE RESUMPTION OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF CITIZENSHIP BY PROVIDING THAT NO PERSON MAY BE DISQUALIFIED FROM PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT, NOR MAY A PERSON BE DISQUALIFIED FROM PURSUING, PRACTICING, OR ENGAGING IN ANY OCCUPATION FOR WHICH A LICENSE IS REQUIRED SOLELY OR IN PART BECAUSE OF A PRIOR CONVICTION OF A CRIME, UNLESS THE CRIME FOR WHICH HE WAS CONVICTED DIRECTLY RELATES TO THE POSITION OF EMPLOYMENT SOUGHT OR THE OCCUPATION FOR WHICH THE LICENSE IS SOUGHT, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED DEFINITIONS, EXCEPTIONS, POLICIES, AND PROCEDURES.

Trump Criminal Background Records Check Ban Act

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-20-50, RELATING TO PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER SALARY SCHEDULES, SO AS TO PROVIDE EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT SHALL PAY EACH CERTIFIED SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER WHO IS TEACHING SPECIAL EDUCATION COURSES FULL-TIME IN THE DISTRICT AN ANNUAL SALARY OF AT LEAST FIFTY-TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS BEGINNING WITH THE 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR.

Special education teacher salaries

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-11-720, RELATING TO ENTITIES WHOSE EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR STATE HEALTH AND DENTAL INSURANCE PLANS, SO AS TO INCLUDE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS.

School board member benefits

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 41-43-40, 41-43-70, AND 41-43-280, ALL RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA JOBS-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, SO AS TO REVISE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE AND REFERENCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 2-7-65, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS THAT STATE AGENCIES JUSTIFY THEIR ANNUAL BUDGET APPPORIATIONS REQUESTS, SO AS TO REVISE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 41-43-170 RELATING TO THE CREATING AND PURPOSES OF THE GUARANTY FUND BY THE AUTHORITY, SECTION 41-43-180 RELATING TO DETERMINATION OF ECONOMICALLY DISTRESSED AREAS, AND SECTION 41-43-200 RELATING TO COLLECTION AND DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION AND DATA.

Jobs-Economic Development Authority

William M. "Bill" HixonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 39-15-50 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE LABELING OF FOOD OR FOOD PRODUCTS THAT CONTAIN MESSENGER RIBONUCLEIC ACID AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY.

Food labels

James Mikell "Mike" BurnsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-104-27 SO AS TO ESTABLISH DURATIONS FOR PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIPS, AND TO MAKE PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR ACCELERATED UNDERGRADUATE-TO-GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-149-60, RELATING TO THE DURATION OF LIFE SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO MAKE LIFE SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR ACCELERATED UNDERGRADUATE-TO-GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS.

State-funded scholarships extend to accelerated programs

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-26-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE AFTER JULY 1, 2027, A PERSON WHO RECEIVES, RENEWS, OR MAINTAINS ANY EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE AUTHORIZED BY THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND ISSUED BY THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL HOLD A MASTER'S DEGREE THAT MEETS DEPARTMENT REGULATIONS APPROPRIATE TO HIS TEACHING FIELD AND LEVEL, TO PROVIDE THE BOARD MAY NOT AUTHORIZE, AND THE DEPARTMENT MAY NOT AWARD, AN EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE TO A PERSON WHO DOES NOT HOLD SUCH A MASTER'S DEGREE, AND TO PROVIDE SCHOOL DISTRICTS MAY NOT EMPLOY A TEACHER WHO DOES NOT HOLD SUCH A MASTER'S DEGREE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-3-10, RELATING TO APPOINTMENT, COMPENSATION, AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE A CANDIDATE FOR THE OFFICE OF STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION SHALL MEET REQUIRED STATUTORY ACADEMIC AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS OF THAT OFFICE, INCLUDING HAVING BEEN AWARDED THE RELEVANT MASTER'S DEGREE, PRIOR TO FILING FOR CANDIDACY OR THE FILING IS RENDERED VOID AND THE NAME OF THE CANDIDATE MAY NOT APPEAR ON ANY PRIMARY OR GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT FOR THE OFFICE OF STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION IN THE ELECTION FOR WHICH THE FILING WAS MADE.

Teacher and State Superintendent of Education credentials

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-322 SO AS TO PROVIDE A STUDENT WHOSE PERFORMANCE ON A STATEWIDE ACADEMIC ASSESSMENT IN EITHER ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS OR MATHEMATICS REQUIRED BY THE EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT ACT INDICATES THAT THE STUDENT IS PERFORMING TWO OR MORE GRADE LEVELS BELOW HIS GRADE LEVEL OF ENROLLMENT DURING THE TESTING MUST BE RETAINED AT THAT GRADE LEVEL UNTIL ADDITIONAL TESTING DEMONSTRATES PERFORMANCE AT HIS GRADE LEVEL OF ENROLLMENT.

Student academic progress and results

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-940 SO AS TO PROVIDE SCHOOL DISTRICTS SHALL DEVELOP FOR EACH OF THEIR SCHOOLS A SUMMARY DETAILING RACIAL DISPARITY IN STUDENT PERFORMANCE ON CERTAIN NATIONAL ACADEMIC ASSESSMENTS AND PROVIDE EACH SCHOOL WITH ITS REPORT, TO PROVIDE SCHOOLS SHALL POST THEIR REPORTS ON THEIR FRONT DOORS, TO REQUIRE REPORTS INCLUDE FIVE-YEAR TREND CHARTS, AND TO PROVIDE DISTRICTS ANNUALLY SHALL UPDATE THE SUMMARIES AND TREND CHARTS.

Racial disparity in academic testing results

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-5-68, RELATING TO THE UNIFORM GRADING SCALE USED IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SO AS TO ENSURE HIGH SCHOOL GRADE POINT AVERAGES ARE A MEANINGFUL INDICATOR OF ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT BY DIRECTING THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO REVISE ITS UNIFORM GRADING SCALE BEFORE JULY 1, 2027, TO ACHIEVE MAKING THE ASSIGNMENT OF GRADES IN HIGH SCHOOL SUBJECTS ALIGN WITH CONTENT MASTERY AS MEASURED BY THE ACT OR OTHER STANDARDIZED NATIONAL ASSESSMENTS DESIGNATED BY THE STATE BOARD FOR MEASURING A PARTICULAR SUBJECT, TO PROVIDE ONLY ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE MAY BE CONSIDERED IN HIGH SCHOOL SUBJECT GRADE ASSIGNMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD SHALL ESTABLISH A TASK FORCE TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THESE MANDATES.

Grade inflation prohibition

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-32-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAM TEAMS SHALL CONSIDER THE NEED FOR AGE-APPROPRIATE AND DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE INSTRUCTION FOR THE SUBJECTS TAUGHT UNDER THE COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAM WHEN DEVELOPING INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES, TO PROVIDE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL ESTABLISH GUIDELINES FOR TEAMS TO USE WHEN CARRYING OUT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS OF SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARDS AND SCHOOLS.

Individualized education programs

Seth RoseDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-15-220, RELATING TO DENTAL SPECIALTIES RECOGNIZED BY THE AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION FOR WHICH SPECIAL LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF DENTISTRY IS REQUIRED, SO AS TO INCLUDE DENTAL SPECIALTIES RECOGNIZED BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF DENTAL SPECIALTIES SUBJECT TO THESE LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-15-250, RELATING TO THE GRANTING OF DENTAL SPECIALTY LICENSES WITHOUT BOARD EXAMINATION TO DIPLOMATES OF CERTAIN NATIONAL CERTIFYING BOARDS, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE AMERICAN BOARD OF DENTAL SPECIALTIES AMONG SUCH NATIONAL CERTIFYING BOARDS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-15-260, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF DENTAL SPECIALTY LICENSES TO APPLICANTS WHO COMPLY WITH EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE COMPLIANCE WITH EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICAN BOARD OF DENTAL SPECIALTIES AS AN ALTERNATIVE.

Dental specialties needing special licensure

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-18-75 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PRIVATE INVESTIGATION BUSINESS FROM DISCLOSING CERTAIN INFORMATION AND KNOWINGLY REPRESENTING MULTIPLE PARTIES WITH OPPOSING INTERESTS IN CIVIL OR CRIMINAL MATTERS AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

Private investigators

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-440 SO AS TO PROVIDE A STUDENT MUST BE EXEMPT FROM PAYING OUT-OF-STATE TUITION AT A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND MUST BE ELIGIBLE FOR CERTAIN STATE-SPONSORED SCHOLARSHIPS AND TUITION ASSISTANCE IF HE ATTENDED A HIGH SCHOOL IN THIS STATE FOR THREE OR MORE YEARS, GRADUATED FROM A HIGH SCHOOL IN THE STATE OR RECEIVED THE EQUIVALENT OF A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA IN THIS STATE, REGISTERS AS AN ENTERING STUDENT OR IS CURRENTLY ENROLLED IN A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION NO EARLIER THAN THE FALL SEMESTER OF THE 2026-2027 ACADEMIC YEAR, AND, IF LACKING LAWFUL IMMIGRATION STATUS, FILES AN AFFIDAVIT WITH THE INSTITUTION STATING HE HAS FILED AN APPLICATION TO LEGALIZE HIS IMMIGRATION OR WILL FILE AN APPLICATION WHEN ELIGIBLE; TO PROVIDE A STUDENT WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A STATE-SPONSORED SCHOLARSHIP OR TUITION ASSISTANCE UNDER THIS ACT ALSO MUST MEET OTHER QUALIFICATIONS OF THE STATE-SPONSORED SCHOLARSHIP OR TUITION ASSISTANCE TO RECEIVE THE SCHOLARSHIP OR TUITION ASSISTANCE; TO PROVIDE STUDENT INFORMATION OBTAINED IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS ACT MUST BE CONFIDENTIAL; AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION TO ADOPT RULES AND REGULATIONS NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT.

In-State college tuition rates

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "BAN THE BOX ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-23 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO JOB APPLICATION MAY INCLUDE QUESTIONS RELATED TO CRIMINAL CONVICTIONS UNLESS THE CONVICTION DIRECTLY RELATES TO THE EMPLOYMENT OR LICENSURE SOUGHT, TO PROVIDE A RELATED POLICY STATEMENT, AND TO PROVIDE NECESSARY DEFINITIONS, EXCLUSIONS, AND RELATED REQUIREMENTS.

Ban the Box Act

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-140 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY COVENANT NOT TO COMPETE THAT A NONPROFIT CORPORATION WITH AN ANNUAL GROSS REVENUE EXCEEDING ONE BILLION DOLLARS HAS WITH CURRENT AND FORMER EMPLOYEES IS NULL, VOID, AND UNENFORCEABLE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT NO SUCH COVENANT MAY BE ENTERED INTO WITH FUTURE EMPLOYEES.

Noncompete covenants

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-150-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE LOTTERY COMMISSION LAWFULLY MAY OWN, MARKET, AND REGULATE CERTAIN CASH DEPOSIT-ACTIVATED GAMES OF SKILL MACHINES THAT SKILLED PLAYERS MAY PLAY TO EARN PRIZES; TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION SHALL MAINTAIN OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL OF THESE GAMES OF SKILL MACHINES; AND TO PROVIDE PERSONS EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER LAWFULLY MAY PLAY THESE MACHINES AND ESTABLISHMENTS APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION LAWFULLY MAY POSSESS THE MACHINES.

Lottery Commission

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-557 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH SEX OFFENDERS MAY HAVE CONTACT OR CUSTODY WITH THEIR OR ANY OTHER MINOR CHILDREN, TO PROVIDE OFFENDERS MUST REPORT THE NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF THEIR MINOR CHILDREN TO THE COURT, AND TO PROVIDE THE SOLICITOR MUST PROVIDE NONOFFENDING PARENTS INFORMATION ABOUT SAFEGUARDING MINORS FROM OFFENDING PARENTS.

Sex offenders

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-5-20, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE SUPREME COURT TO PROMULGATE RULES AND REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE PRACTICE OF LAW AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA BAR, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SUPREME COURT MAY PROMULGATE RULES AND REGULATIONS DEFINING AND REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF LAW SUBJECT TO STATUTORY LAW AND DETERMINING THE QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW AND THE LICENSURE OF ATTORNEYS IN THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE THAT ANY PROVISION OF LAW OR RULE THAT REQUIRES AN ATTORNEY TO BE A MEMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA BAR IS SUPERSEDED AND OF NO FORCE AND EFFECT, AND TO DELETE INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS RELATED TO THE BAR; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-5-310, RELATING TO PRACTICING LAW OR SOLICITING THE LEGAL CAUSE OF ANOTHER WITHOUT BEING ENROLLED AS A MEMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA BAR, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO PERSON MAY PRACTICE LAW UNLESS HE IS LICENSED BY THE SUPREME COURT, AND TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A PERSON BE A MEMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA BAR.

Requirements for practicing law

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 24-13-40, RELATING TO THE COMPUTATION OF TIME SERVED BY PRISONERS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ALLOWS PRISONERS TO USE TIME SPENT UNDER MONITORED HOUSE ARREST AGAINST THEIR SENTENCE WHEN COMPUTING TIME SERVED BY PRISONERS.

Credit for time served

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 17, TITLE 47 SO AS TO PROVIDE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO ADVERTISE, OFFER FOR SALE, OR SELL PLANT-BASED MEAT PRODUCTS AS "MEAT," "CLEAN-MEAT," OR "MEAT-FOOD" PRODUCTS AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

Plant-based and insect-based meats

John Gregory "Jay" KilmartinRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 24-21-950, RELATING TO GUIDELINES FOR DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY FOR PARDON SO AS TO MAKE GRAMMATICAL AND TECHNICAL CHANGES, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT REQUIRES INMATES BE CONSIDERED FOR PARDONS BEFORE PAROLE ELIGIBILITY DATES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Pardon eligibility guidelines

John R. McCravy IIIRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-1538, RELATING TO EMERGENCY SCENE MANAGEMENT AND DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "EMERGENCY SERVICES PERSONNEL" TO INCLUDE TOW TRUCK OPERATORS.

Emergency scene management

Steven Wayne LongRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-47-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "FIRST RESPONDER"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 23-47-85 SO AS TO PROVIDE 911 PROFESSIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS ARE ENTITLED TO CERTAIN BENEFITS.

Statewide telecommunications system

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-320, RELATING TO ISSUANCE OF TAGS FOR HUNTING AND TAKING DEER AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE PERSONS MAY USE PRINTED COPIES OF TAGS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES AND MUST POSSESS TAGS WHEN TAGGING DEER BUT NOT WHILE HUNTING; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-544, RELATING TO WILD TURKEY TAGS, SO AS TO PROVIDE PERSONS MAY USE PRINTED COPIES OF TAGS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES AND MUST POSSESS TAGS WHEN TAGGING WILD TURKEY BUT NOT WHILE HUNTING.

Deer and wild turkey tags

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-1-240, RELATING TO BODY-WORN CAMERAS, SO AS TO PROVIDE PERSONS WHO ARE SUBJECTS IN DATA RECORDED BY BODY-WORN CAMERAS MAY REQUEST AND MUST RECEIVE RECORDED DATA WITHOUT PURSUING ACTIONS UNDER THE RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE OR CIVIL PROCEDURE, OR BY OBTAINING COURT ORDERS.

Requesting body-worn camera data

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA JUVENILE JUSTICE REFORM ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-1-20, RELATING TO POLICY REGARDING THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S CODE, SO AS TO INCLUDE WITHIN THE STATEMENT A PROVISION TO ESTABLISH A POLICY REGARDING THE CARE AND GUIDANCE OF CHILDREN WITHIN THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM; SO AS TO ADD ARTICLE 6 TO CHAPTER 19, TITLE 63, SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH CIRCUIT SOLICITOR TO ESTABLISH A JUVENILE OFFENDER CIVIL CITATION PROGRAM TO PROVIDE A CIVIL DIVERSION PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN WHO HAVE COMMITTED ACTS OF DELINQUENCY, AND TO ESTABLISH ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-17-425, RELATING TO STUDENT THREATS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A STUDENT TO MAKE A THREAT TO COMMIT AN ACT OF MASS VIOLENCE AT A SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR UNIVERSITY, OR AT A SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR UNIVERSITY SPONSORED ACTIVITY, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-430, RELATING TO CARRYING A WEAPON ON SCHOOL PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO CARRY, WHILE ON ELEMENTARY OR SECONDARY SCHOOL PROPERTY, A KNIFE, FIREARM, OR OTHER WEAPON WITH THE INTENT BY THE PERSON TO INFLICT SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-1-40, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE FROM THE DEFINITION THE PLAYING OR LOITERING IN A BILLIARD ROOM; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-520, RELATING TO THE TRAFFIC AND WILDLIFE JURISDICTION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AGE OF CONCURRENT JURISDICTION FROM PERSONS UNDER SEVENTEEN YEARS OF AGE TO PERSONS UNDER EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-310, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED TO REPORT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A PERSON EMPLOYED BY A LAWYER MUST REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE IF THE SUSPICION ARISES IN THE COURSE OF THE LEGAL REPRESENTATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE FROM THE DEFINITION THE PLAYING OR LOITERING IN A BILLIARD ROOM; BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 TO CHAPTER 19, TITLE 63, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE "CHILDREN'S BILL OF RIGHTS," TO PROVIDE THAT A CHILD HAS THE RIGHT TO BE TREATED WITH BASIC HUMAN DIGNITY, TO BE PROVIDED NECESSARY CARE, MEDICAL TREATMENT, FOOD, EDUCATION, ACCESS TO FAMILY, ADVOCATES, AND LAWYERS, AND TO BE FREE FROM ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND HARASSMENT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICATION OF THESE RIGHTS; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-210 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT MUST ARRANGE FOR A CHILD FIFTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR YOUNGER TO MEET WITH LEGAL COUNSEL PRIOR TO A CUSTODIAL INTERROGATION EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-340, RELATING TO ANNUAL REPORTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REPORT MUST INCLUDE SPECIFIC STATISTICS RELATING TO CHILDREN REFERRED TO THE DEPARTMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-350, RELATING TO COMMUNITY SERVICES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO DEVELOP AND UTILIZE STRUCTURED DECISION-MAKING TOOLS FOR ALL KEY POINTS OF THE JUVENILE JUSTICE PROCESS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-360, RELATING TO INSTITUTIONAL SERVICES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE CHILD EVALUATION TO BE CONDUCTED BY THE DEPARTMENT TO INCLUDE A BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL ASSESSMENT AND A DETERMINATION OF THE CHILD'S MENTAL HEALTH FUNCTIONING; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-362 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT BEFORE SUBMITTING A PETITION FOR A CHILD IN ITS CUSTODY FOR A MISDEMEANOR THAT WOULD CARRY A MAXIMUM TERM OF IMPRISONMENT OF FIVE YEARS OR LESS, THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE MUST ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE THE SITUATION THROUGH AVAILABLE ADMINISTRATIVE APPROACHES; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-365 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF SOLITARY CONFINEMENT ON A CHILD AND PROVIDE LIMITS FOR THE USE OF CORRECTIVE ROOM RESTRICTIONS UPON CHILDREN WITHIN THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-370, RELATING TO INTERDEPARTMENTAL AGREEMENTS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO ESTABLISH AGREEMENTS WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO PROVIDE REENTRY SERVICES FOR CHILDREN RETURNING TO SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES FROM THE DEPARTMENT'S CUSTODY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-500 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT THE DEPARTMENT ESTABLISH AT LEAST ONE PRE-DETENTION INTERVENTION PROGRAM IN EACH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT AND TO ESTABLISH PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND ELIGIBILITY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-520 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE JUVENILE JUSTICE IMPROVEMENT FUND, TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO DIVERT MONEYS SAVED FROM DECREASED RELIANCE ON OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT TO FUND COMMUNITY INTERVENTION PROGRAMS INCLUDING EDUCATIONAL, MENTAL HEALTH, AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-810, RELATING TO TAKING A CHILD INTO CUSTODY, SO AS TO REMOVE A DUPLICATIVE NOTIFICATION PROVISION BY LAW ENFORCEMENT TO SCHOOL PRINCIPALS AND TO REQUIRE THAT ANY CHILD SEVENTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER, WHO HAS BEEN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY BUT WHO HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED TO A PARENT OR GUARDIAN, MUST HAVE A BOND HEARING BEFORE A MAGISTRATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-820, RELATING TO OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT, SO AS TO LIMIT SECURE PRETRIAL DETENTION TO CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE IT IS THE LEAST RESTRICTIVE APPROPRIATE OPTION AND IF THE CHILD IS CHARGED WITH A CRIME THAT WOULD BE A FIVE-YEAR FELONY OR GREATER, HAS EXHAUSTED COMMUNITY BASED ALTERNATIVES, OR IS CHARGED WITH UNLAWFUL STUDENT THREATS OR FAILURE TO STOP FOR A BLUE LIGHT, TO REMOVE THE ELIGIBILITY OF JUVENILES CHARGED AS AN ADULT TO BE HOUSED IN ADULT DETENTION FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-830, RELATING TO DETENTION HEARINGS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COURT TO ORDER A CHILD DETAINED IN AN APPROVED HOME, PROGRAM, OR FACILITY OTHER THAN A SECURE JUVENILE DETENTION FACILITY WHILE AWAITING TRIAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1010, RELATING TO INTAKE AND PROBATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A CHILD BROUGHT BEFORE THE FAMILY COURT SHALL HAVE A PRESUMPTION FOR DIVERSION IF CERTAIN CONDITIONS ARE MET OR IF THE SOLICITOR HAS GOOD CAUSE TO BELIEVE THAT DIVERSION WOULD BE INSUFFICIENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1020, RELATING TO INSTITUTING PROCEEDINGS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SERVICES TO BE OFFERED BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT MAY ACCEPT A REFERRAL FOR A STATUS OFFENSE OR FOR SCHOOL-BASED OFFENSES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1030, RELATING TO PREHEARING INQUIRY, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT THE PREHEARING INVESTIGATION IS OPTIONAL AND TO ESTABLISH THE PARENTS' RIGHT TO RECEIVE NOTICE OF THE CHARGES AND THEIR RIGHTS TO AN ATTORNEY; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1030, RELATING TO PREHEARING INQUIRY, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT THE PREHEARING INVESTIGATION IS OPTIONAL AND TO ESTABLISH THE PARENTS' RIGHT TO RECEIVE NOTICE OF THE CHARGES AND THEIR RIGHTS TO AN ATTORNEY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1050 SO AS TO PROHIBIT CHARGING A FEE TO A CHILD AS A CONDITION OF DIVERSION AND TO LIMIT THE AMOUNT OF RESTITUTION REQUIRED OF A CHILD IN DIVERSION TO FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1070 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT THE FAMILY COURT MAY ADJOURN A CRIMINAL PROCEEDING AGAINST A JUVENILE IN CONTEMPLATION OF DISMISSAL UPON COMPLETION OF CERTAIN CONDITIONS ESTABLISHED BY THE COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1210, RELATING TO TRANSFER OF JURISDICTION, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE TRANSFER TO GENERAL SESSIONS FOR A CHILD FOURTEEN OR FIFTEEN YEARS OF AGE, TO ALLOW A CHILD WHO IS TRANSFERRED TO GENERAL SESSIONS WHO HAS BEEN CHARGED WITH MURDER TO BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A SENTENCE LESS THAN THE MANDATORY MINIMUM, AND TO ALLOW THE DETERMINATION BY THE COURT TO TRANSFER THE CHILD'S CASE TO GENERAL SESSIONS TO BE IMMEDIATELY APPEALABLE TO THE SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1410, RELATING TO ADJUDICATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE COURT TO ORDER THE LEAST RESTRICTIVE APPROPRIATE PLACEMENT FOR A CHILD ADJUDICATED DELINQUENT, TO LIMIT THE LENGTH OF PROBATION, TO LIMIT PROBATION TO NOT EXTEND AFTER A CHILD'S TWENTIETH BIRTHDAY, TO LIMIT THE IMPOSITION OF RESTITUTION FOR A CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF SIXTEEN UNLESS IT IS PROVEN THAT THE CHILD HAS THE ABILITY TO PAY, TO PROHIBIT THE CHILD FROM BEING ORDERED TO PAY FOR DRUG SCREENS UNLESS THE CHILD HAS INSURANCE TO COVER THE COST, AND TO ALLOW FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO PLACE THE CHILD ON ADMINISTRATIVE SUPERVISION TO PAY FOR RESTITUTION OR COMPLETE COMMUNITY SERVICE; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1415 SO AS TO ALLOW THE CIRCUIT SOLICITORS TO OPERATE ONE OR MORE SPECIALTY TREATMENT COURTS IF ALLOWED BY THE SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1440, RELATING TO COMMITMENT, SO AS TO LIMIT THE PLACEMENT OF A CHILD INTO THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO REQUIRE THE COURT TO ISSUE INDIVIDUALIZED FINDINGS AS TO WHY THE COMMITMENT IS THE LEAST RESTRICTIVE SENTENCING OPTION TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC AND REHABILITATE THE CHILD, TO PROHIBIT THE COMMITMENT OF A CHILD WHO HAS BEEN ADJUDICATED FOR A STATUS OFFENSE OR A PROBATION REVOCATION RELATED TO A STATUS OFFENSE, TO ALLOW THE COURT TO SENTENCE A CHILD WHO HAS COMMITTED AN OFFENSE WHICH CARRIES FIFTEEN YEARS OR MORE TO A DETERMINATE SENTENCE OF UP TO ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY DAYS, AND TO LIMIT THE CONSECUTIVE SENTENCING TO NOT EXCEED THE TIME ELIGIBLE FOR AN INDETERMINATE SENTENCE, TO LIMIT THE ELIGIBILITY FOR RESIDENTIAL EVALUATIONS, AND TO ALLOW FOR THE CHILD TO GET TIME SERVED CREDIT FOR COMMITMENTS TO SHORT-TERM ALTERNATIVE PLACEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1450, RELATING TO COMMITMENT OF JUVENILE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS OR MENTAL RETARDATION, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT A CHILD MAY NOT BE COMMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE WHO IS HANDICAPPED BY MENTAL ILLNESS OR A DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1480 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FAMILY COURT MAY CONDUCT POST DISPOSITIONAL REVIEWS TO DETERMINE IF THE PURPOSES OF THE CRIMINAL SENTENCING HAVE BEEN MET AND THE CHILD'S SENTENCE MAY BE CLOSED, THE HEARING BEING HELD ONLY AFTER ONE YEAR OR IF THE CHILD IS IN THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE, THEN AFTER SIX MONTHS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1810, RELATING TO DETERMINATION OF RELEASE, SO AS TO REMOVE THE AUTHORITY OF THE COURT TO COMMIT A CHILD TO SECURE CUSTODY FOR A PROBATION REVOCATION IF THE CHILD IS ON PROBATION FOR A STATUS OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1820, RELATING TO BOARD OF JUVENILE PAROLE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE RELEASING ENTITY TO DETERMINE THE LENGTH OF STAY GUIDELINES ARE BASED ON EVIDENCE BASED BEST PRACTICES, THE RISKS OF REOFFENDING, AND THE SEVERITY OF THE OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1835, RELATING TO COMPLIANCE REDUCTIONS FOR PROBATIONERS AND PAROLEES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNITY-BASED SANCTIONS FOR TECHNICAL VIOLATIONS OF PROBATION OR PAROLE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2020, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY, SO AS TO REMOVE A REFERENCE TO A DELETED CRIMINAL OFFENSE, TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO NOTIFY THE ADMINISTRATION OF A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY OF AN ENROLLED STUDENT'S CHARGES DELINEATED WITHIN THIS SECTION, AND TO ADD ASSAULT AND BATTERY IN THE FIRST OR SECOND DEGREES TO THE LIST OF CRIMES THAT MUST BE DISCLOSED TO SCHOOL OFFICIALS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2030, RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT RECORDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2050, RELATING TO PETITION FOR EXPUNGEMENT OF OFFICIAL RECORDS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE EXPUNGEMENT OF ALL OFFICIAL RECORDS RELATED TO THE ADJUDICATION OR DISPOSITION OF A STATUS OFFENSE UPON THE PERSON REACHING EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS HE COMPLETES ANY PENDING FAMILY COURT DISPOSITION AND TO REQUIRE THAT A CHILD SHALL NOT BE CHARGED FOR THE EXPUNGEMENT OF HIS RECORDS ORDERED UNDER THIS SECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1970 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR A STUDENT WHO HAS TRANSFERRED BECAUSE OF HOMELESSNESS, STATUS AS A VICTIM OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT, ADJUDICATIONS OF DELINQUENCY, OR PLACEMENT IN A FACILITY FOR MENTAL HEALTH OR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES MUST CONTACT THE STUDENT'S PRIOR SCHOOL WITHIN TWO DAYS OF ENROLLMENT AND TO REQUIRE THE PREVIOUS SCHOOL DISTRICT TO SEND THE STUDENT'S RECORDS WITHIN TWO DAYS OF REQUEST TO THE NEW SCHOOL, AND TO REQUIRE THAT THE STUDENT RECEIVE TIMELY ASSISTANCE, EQUAL ACCESS, AND PRIORITY PLACEMENT RELATING TO THE TRANSFER; BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1980 SO AS TO REQUIRE SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO PROVIDE SCHOOL LIAISONS TO ASSIST STUDENTS TRANSFERRING DUE TO INVOLVEMENT IN THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-24-60, RELATING TO REQUIREMENT OF SCHOOL OFFICIALS TO CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES WHEN CRIMINAL CONDUCT OCCURS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL OFFICIALS MUST CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT IF A PERSON COMMITS AN ACTION AT A SCHOOL OR SCHOOL-SPONSORED EVENT THAT WOULD BE A FELONY OR A CRIME PUNISHABLE BY FIVE YEARS OR MORE, OR IF THE ACTION RESULTS IN SERIOUS INJURY; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-210, RELATING TO GROUNDS FOR WHICH TRUSTEES MAY EXPEL, SUSPEND, OR TRANSFER PUPILS, SO AS TO LIMIT THE AUTHORITY OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT TO EXPEL, SUSPEND, OR TRANSFER A PUPIL EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-1320, RELATING TO REFERRAL OR PLACEMENT OF STUDENTS IN ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL PROGRAMS, SO AS TO RESTRICT THE AUTOMATIC PLACEMENT OF A CHILD RETURNING FROM THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO AN ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY REPEALING SECTION 63-19-2420 RELATING TO LOITERING IN A BILLIARD ROOM; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 63-19-2430 RELATING TO PLAYING PINBALL.

S.C. Juvenile Justice Reform Act

Tameika Isaac DevineDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-2-140 SO AS TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS, AND FOR THE REGISTRATION AND OPERATION OF UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLES ON THE HIGHWAYS OF THIS STATE.

Utility Terrain Vehicles

Kevin HardeeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY REPEALING SECTION 56-1-250 RELATING TO CANCELLATION OF DRIVERS' LICENSES OR PERMITS OF MINORS UPON DEATH OF PERSONS SIGNING THE MINOR'S APPLICATION FOR LICENSES OR PERMITS.

Driver's license

William M. "Bill" HixonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 60-9-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER OF ALLOCATING AMOUNTS APPROPRIATED FOR AID TO COUNTY LIBRARIES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THESE FUNDS COUNTY LIBRARIES MUST CERTIFY TO THE STATE LIBRARY THAT THEY DO NOT OFFER ANY BOOKS OR MATERIALS THAT APPEAL TO THE PRURIENT INTERESTS OF CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF SEVENTEEN IN CHILDREN, YOUTH, OR TEEN BOOK SECTIONS AND ARE ONLY AVAILABLE WITH PARENTAL CONSENT, AND TO PROVIDE COUNTY LIBRARIES MUST RECERTIFY COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PROVISION QUARTERLY BEFORE IT MAY RECEIVE A DISBURSEMENT OF THESE FUNDS.

Library funding

Rex F. RiceRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-1-260 SO AS TO PROVIDE COMPANIES THAT MAINTAIN IN-VEHICLE SECURITY SYSTEMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES MUST RELEASE VEHICLE LOCATION INFORMATION TO LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS.

Emergency release of vehicle location information

Kevin HardeeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-40-250 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ADDITIONAL PER PUPIL FUNDING FOR CHARTER SCHOOLS WITH A CERTAIN POVERTY INDEX OR LOCATED IN A CERTAIN COUNTY.

Charter Schools

Nathan BallentineRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 34-3-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A BANK MAY NOT ALLOW A GOVERNMENTAL TAX COLLECTION AGENCY TO COLLECT CERTAIN CUSTOMER DATA.

Banking reporting requirements

James Mikell "Mike" BurnsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "STOP SURPRISE BILLS ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-292 SO AS TO PROHIBIT INSURERS AND HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS FROM ENGAGING IN SURPRISE BILLING; AND BY ADDING SECTION 39-5-45 SO AS TO MAKE IT AN UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICE FOR AN INSURER OR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER TO ENGAGE IN THE PRACTICE OF SURPRISE BILLING.

Stop Surprise Bills

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-1230 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT OVERTIME INCOME IS EXEMPT FROM CERTAIN TAXES.

Overtime income tax exemption

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 7, TITLE 58 SO AS TO ESTABLISH PROVISIONS RELATING TO PETROLEUM PIPELINES, TO PROVIDE FOR APPLICATIONS, PERMITTING, AND HEARINGS, TO SET REQUIREMENTS FOR RENDERING FINAL ORDERS, TO PROVIDE FOR REHEARINGS, TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, TO ALLOW THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO REQUIRE RECORDS PRODUCTION, TO PROVIDE FOR DISCOVERY, TO EMPLOY EXPERT WITNESSES, TO PROVIDE THAT A PETROLEUM PIPELINE COMPANY MAY REQUEST REASONABLE ACCESS TO PROPERTY ON A PROPOSED SITE FOR SURVEY PURPOSES, TO PROVIDE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR A SPILL OR AN ACCIDENTAL RELEASE, TO PROVIDE FOR EMINENT DOMAIN AND HEARINGS BEFORE THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; AND TO DESIGNATE SECTIONS 58-7-10 THROUGH 58-7-70 AS ARTICLE 1, ENTITLED "SPECIAL PROVISIONS AFFECTING GAS, WATER, OR PETROLEUM PIPELINE COMPANIES.

Petroleum Pipelines

William M. "Bill" HixonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 14-8-10, RELATING TO THE COURT OF APPEALS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF JUDGES FROM NINE TO FIFTEEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 14-8-20, RELATING TO THE TERMS OF OFFICE FOR JUDGES ON THE COURT OF APPEALS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH STAGGERED TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 14-8-80, RELATING TO THE COURT SITTING IN PANELS OR AS A WHOLE, AND THE ASSIGNMENT OF MEMBERS TO PANELS BY THE CHIEF JUDGE, AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF CASES BETWEEN THE PANELS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHIEF JUDGE ESTABLISH TWO PANELS TO PRESIDE OVER CRIMINAL MATTERS, TWO PANELS TO PRESIDE OVER CIVIL MATTERS, AND A FIFTH PANEL TO MAINTAIN APPROXIMATELY EQUAL CASELOADS BETWEEN THE PANELS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 14-8-90, RELATING TO WHEN THE COURT MAY SIT EN BANC, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF JUDGES FOR A PETITION OR MOTION FOR THE COURT TO SIT EN BANC FROM SIX TO TEN, AND TO PROVIDE THAT TEN JUSTICES CONSTITUTE A QUORUM.

Civil and Criminal Courts of Appeals Panels

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat