Bills & Legislation

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-1180 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COUNTY CHAIRPERSON OF A CERTIFIED POLITICAL PARTY MAY INSTRUCT COUNTY ELECTION OFFICIALS CONDUCTING A HAND COUNT AUDIT TO INCLUDE ADDITIONAL PRECINCTS, OFFICES, OR BOTH.

Hand count audits

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "COMPETITIVE EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 59-18-300, RELATING TO THE ADOPTION OF EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS IN CERTAIN CORE ACADEMIC AREAS, SO AS TO INCLUDE SPANISH AMONG THESE AREAS, AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ESTABLISH EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS FOR SPANISH BEFORE DECEMBER 1, 2026, TO BE IMPLEMENTED BEGINNING WITH THE 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-18-310, RELATING TO THE STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT PROGRAM TO PROMOTE STUDENT LEARNING AND MEASURE STUDENT PERFORMANCE ON STATE STANDARDS, SECTION 59-18-320, RELATING TO THE REVIEW AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE STATEWIDE ASSESSMENTS, SECTION 59-18-325, RELATING TO THE SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM, SECTION 59-18-350, RELATING TO THE CYCLICAL REVIEW OF STATEWIDE STANDARDS AND ASSESSMENTS, AND SECTION 59-18-900, RELATING TO PERFORMANCE RATINGS OF SCHOOLS, ALL SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.

Competitive Education Employment Act

Michael F. Rivers, Sr.Democrat

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO RATIFY A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA PROVIDING THAT EQUALITY OF RIGHTS UNDER THE LAW MUST NOT BE DENIED OR ABRIDGED ON ACCOUNT OF SEX.

Equality of rights; US Constitution

Leonidas E. "Leon" StavrinakisDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-25 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE INSTALLATION AND USE OF VIDEO CAMERAS IN EACH RESIDENT ROOM IN CERTAIN RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES, TO PROVIDE LEGAL GUARDIANS OF SUCH PATIENTS MUST BE ALLOWED TO REMOTELY MONITOR CARE OF THE PATIENTS USING THESE CAMERAS, AND TO PROVIDE ANY RECORDINGS MADE USING THE CAMERAS MUST BE SECURED AND AVAILABLE ONLY TO THE RESIDENT, HIS FAMILY MEMBER, OR HIS LEGAL GUARDIAN, IN ORDER TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THE HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 1996.

Residential care security monitoring

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE INTENTION OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO ENSURE LEGISLATION INTRODUCED IN THE ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-SIXTH SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY CLEARLY ARTICULATES ITS TRUE INTENT AS IT PERTAINS TO MATTERS OF CERTAIN PUBLIC IMPORTANCE, AND TO CHARACTERIZE THIS INTENTION AS THE "CRADLE TO GRAVE COMMITMENT.

Cradle To Grave Commitment for Legislative Intent

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-26-42 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL ANNUALLY DEVELOP AND APPROVE GUIDELINES FOR A PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM IN ALL TEACHING AREAS, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE ALL DISTRICTS ANNUALLY SHALL PROVIDE THE PROGRAM AS IN-SERVICE TRAINING TO TEACHERS EMPLOYED BY THE DISTRICT AT NO COST TO THE TEACHERS, TO PROVIDE ALL TEACHERS ANNUALLY SHALL COMPLETE THE PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE ANNUAL COMPLETION OF THE PROGRAM DURING EACH YEAR OF A PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE RENEWAL CYCLE WILL SATISFY ALL RENEWAL CREDIT REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATOR PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE RENEWAL IN THAT CYCLE, AMONG OTHER THINGS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICATION OF THIS REQUIREMENT TO CERTIFICATE RENEWAL CYCLES THAT BEGIN AFTER JUNE 30, 2026 AND CERTIFICATE RENEWAL CYCLES THAT BEGAN BEFORE JUNE 30, 2026.

Teacher certificate renewal credit requirements

Leon D. "Doug" GilliamRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SECURE, ACCURATE, AND VERIFIABLE ELECTIONS ACT" OR THE "SAVE ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-3-20, RELATING TO THE DUTIES OF THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SO AS TO REQUIRE SEPARATE LISTS FOR ACTIVE, INACTIVE, AND ARCHIVED VOTER REGISTRATIONS AND PROVIDE A LIST TO QUALIFIED ELECTORS FOR FREE; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-160, RELATING TO VOTER REGISTRATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A VOTER REGISTRATION PERIOD OF TEN YEARS, REQUIRE VALID IDENTIFICATION TO REGISTER TO VOTE, AND FOR THE COUNTY BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS TO ISSUE A VOTER IDENTIFICATION CARD FOR EACH REGISTRATION; BY ADDING SECTION 7-5-200 SO AS TO PERMIT ONLY PAPER POLL BOOKS AT VOTING LOCATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 7-7-715 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MAXIMUM POPULATION OF EACH PRECINCT, REQUIRE A NEW PRECINCT WITHIN ONE YEAR OF POPULATION EXCEEDING THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT AND PROVIDE FOR A PENALTY FOR VIOLATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-72, RELATING TO MANAGERS OF ELECTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE FOUR ELECTION MANAGERS FOR EACH TWO HUNDRED FIFTY REGISTERED VOTERS; BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-700 SO AS TO REQUIRE ONLY QUALIFIED ELECTORS WHO COMPLY WITH ALL CONSTITUTIONAL AND STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS TO VOTE IN AN ELECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-730, RELATING TO THE DELIVERY, MARKING, AND DEPOSIT OF BALLOTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE INITIALS OF TWO POLL MANAGERS ON EACH BALLOT; BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-870 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR PAPER BALLOTS AND HAND COUNT OF THOSE BALLOTS; BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-880 SO AS TO REQUIRE CHAIN OF CUSTODY REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL VOTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-1110, RELATING TO COUNTING BALLOTS AND RESULTS DECLARATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PUBLIC HAS ACCESS TO VIEW THE BALLOT COUNT PROCESS PROVIDED THERE IS NO INTERFERENCE WITH THE PROCESS; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-1160, RELATING TO COUNTY REPORTING OF ELECTION RESULTS TO THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH COUNTY BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS TO POST ITS ELECTION RESULTS BEFORE NOTIFICATION OF UNOFFICIAL RESULTS TO THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-15-320, RELATING TO PERSONS QUALIFIED TO VOTE BY ABSENTEE BALLOT, SO AS TO REQUIRE ONLY U.

Secure, Accurate, and Verifiable Elections Act

Robert J. "Rob" HarrisRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-43-320 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO PROHIBIT INDIVIDUALS FROM GAINING ACCESS TO CEMETERIES, BURIAL GROUNDS, OR GRAVES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY.

Cemeteries

Michael F. Rivers, Sr.Democrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "BUDGET TRANSPARENCY ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 11-11-60, SECTION 6-1-2020, AND SECTION 30-4-170 SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN PUBLIC BODIES TO MAKE AVAILABLE CERTAIN SALARY INFORMATION WITH EITHER THE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION OR ON ITS OWN WEBSITE.

Budget Transparency Act

Robert J. "Rob" HarrisRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-7-3450, RELATING TO RESOLUTION OF A HOSPITAL PATIENT'S PERSONAL MEDICAL CARE CONCERNS, SO AS TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS TO PROVIDE A LIST OF AGENCIES TO THE PATIENT'S FAMILY TO WHICH COMPLAINTS ABOUT A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER OR FACILITY MAY BE REPORTED.

Hospitals

Annie E. McDanielDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 53-3-230, RELATING TO PENN CENTER HERITAGE DAY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN ANNUAL PARADE.

Penn Center Heritage parade

Michael F. Rivers, Sr.Democrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-520, RELATING TO MALICIOUS INJURY TO A TREE, HOUSE, OUTSIDE FENCE, OR FIXTURE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXCEPTION OF TRIMMING TREE LIMBS THAT ENCROACH UPON A PROPERTY LINE.

Tree Limbs Encroaching Over Property Lines

Lucas AtkinsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "HEALTHY STUDENTS ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-10, RELATING TO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY STANDARDS FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE NINETY MINUTES OF WEEKLY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS, TO INCLUDE SECOND GRADE STUDENTS AMONG THOSE WHOSE FITNESS STATUSES MUST BE REPORTED, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO PROVIDE A SUMMARY REPORT OF THE FITNESS STATUS OF STUDENTS IN CERTAIN GRADES IN EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-310, RELATING TO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MEAL AND COMPETITIVE FOOD NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE RESTRICTIONS ON THE APPLICATION OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS TO THE SCHOOL YEAR; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-330, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF COORDINATED SCHOOL HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCILS TO PERFORM CERTAIN FUNCTIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE PROVISIONS CONCERNING POLICIES LIMITING VENDING MACHINE AND SNACK FOOD SALES; TO REDESIGNATE CHAPTER 10, TITLE 59 OF THE S.

Healthy Students Act

Robert Q. WilliamsDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-165 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL SHALL DEVELOP A MINIMUM SET OF STANDARDS THAT A STATE OR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY MUST FOLLOW WHEN ESTABLISHING AND IMPLEMENTING A MEDIATION PROGRAM AS AN ALTERNATE METHOD OF RESOLVING LAW ENFORCEMENT MISCONDUCT COMPLAINTS.

Mediation

Rosalyn D. Henderson-Myers, Ph.D.Democrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-820, RELATING TO GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN PRIVATE CUSTODY OR VISITATION CASES, SO AS TO MAKE CERTAIN CHANGES REGARDING CASES IN WHICH ATTORNEY AND LAY GUARDIANS AD LITEM MAY BE APPOINTED.

Private Guardians ad Litem

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 43-35-87, RELATING TO FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION OF VULNERABLE ADULTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR TRAINING OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTION STAFF, TO ALLOW A VULNERABLE ADULT TO DESIGNATE TRUSTED PERSONS FOR FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION NOTIFICATION PURPOSES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Vulnerable Adults

Tiffany Spann-WilderDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-63-74, RELATING IN PART TO MEDICAL CERTIFICATIONS OF CAUSE OF DEATH, SO AS TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS TO PROVIDE TO A DECEASED PATIENT'S FAMILY THE CAUSE OF DEATH TO BE TRANSMITTED TO THE BUREAU OF VITAL STATISTICS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Death Certificates

Annie E. McDanielDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-268 SO AS TO PROHIBIT HEALTHCARE FACILITIES FROM INITIATING DISCUSSIONS ABOUT "DO NOT RESUSCITATE ORDERS" WITH PATIENTS AND PATIENTS' FAMILY MEMBERS, WITH EXCEPTIONS.

Healthcare Facilities

Annie E. McDanielDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-2570, RELATING TO GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO A CHILD, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE GROUNDS OF WILFUL FAILURE TO VISIT THE CHILD AND WILFUL FAILURE TO SUPPORT THE CHILD IN THE CASE OF AN INCARCERATED PARENT.

Termination of Parental Rights

Rosalyn D. Henderson-Myers, Ph.D.Democrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-268 SO AS TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS TO PROVIDE A WRITTEN PLAN OF CARE AND OTHER INFORMATION TO A PATIENT'S FAMILY.

Hospitals

Annie E. McDanielDemocrat

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO CREATE A STUDY COMMITTEE TO STUDY THE POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF MEDICAID EXPANSION IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Medicaid Expansion Study Committee

Rosalyn D. Henderson-Myers, Ph.D.Democrat

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE HEALTHCARE MARKET REFORM MEASURES STUDY COMMITTEE; TO PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY COMMITTEE'S MEMBERSHIP AND NONVOTING ADVISORY BOARD; TO ESTABLISH THE DUTIES OF THE STUDY COMMITTEE; TO REQUIRE THE STUDY COMMITTEE TO ISSUE A REPORT WITH FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Healthcare Market Reform Measures Study Committee

Rosalyn D. Henderson-Myers, Ph.D.Democrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HANDS-FREE AND DISTRACTED DRIVING ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-3890, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL USE OF A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICE WHILE OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH IT IS UNLAWFUL TO USE A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICE, TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING AND PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL REVISIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-720, RELATING TO POINTS THAT MAY BE ASSESSED AGAINST A PERSON'S DRIVING RECORD FOR MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A SECOND OR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING IS A TWO-POINT VIOLATION, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SHALL NOTIFY MOTORISTS OF THE HANDS-FREE REQUIREMENTS AT CERTAIN POINTS ALONG THE STATE'S INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.

South Carolina Hands-free Act

Tom Young, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1308, RELATING TO THE FILING OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS BY CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO REQUIRE CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES TO FILE CAMPAIGN BANK ACCOUNT STATEMENTS FOR THE PREVIOUS QUARTER'S CAMPAIGN REPORT CONTEMPORANEOUSLY WITH THEIR CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURES.

Campaign Bank Account Statements

Tom Young, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-410, RELATING TO AN ELECTION TO COME UNDER THE NATURAL GAS RATE STABILIZATION ACT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT AN ELECTION SHALL REMAIN IN EFFECT UNTIL THE NEXT GENERAL RATE PROCEEDING; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-415, RELATING TO THE DURATION OF AN ELECTION AND THE WITHDRAWAL OF A REQUEST TO COME UNDER THE NATURAL GAS RATE STABILIZATION ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ELECTION BY A UTILITY UNDER THE NATURAL GAS RATE STABILIZATION ACT SHALL REMAIN IN EFFECT FOR FIVE YEARS AND THAT THE UTILITY MAY OPT OUT; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-420, RELATING TO THE CONTENTS OF AN ORDER, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS FOR FIGURES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-450, RELATING TO THE REVIEW OF REPORTS AND PROPOSED TARIFF RATE ADJUSTMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF SHALL PROPOSE CHANGES TO RATE DESIGN; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-470, RELATING TO THE REVIEW OF INITIAL ORDERS, SCOPE, AND RULE TO SHOW CAUSE FOR WHY A FULL RATE PROCEEDING SHOULD NOT BE INITIATED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE RIGHT OF REGULATORY STAFF TO FILE CERTAIN ACTIONS IS NOT LIMITED; AND BY ADDING SECTION 58-5-416 SO AS TO PROVIDE A LIMITATION ON THE DURATION OF ELECTION.

Natural Gas Rate Stabilization Act

Tom Young, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 22-1-10, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF MAGISTRATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A MAGISTRATE MAY SERVE IN HOLDOVER STATUS FOR NO MORE THAN FOURTEEN DAYS AT THE END OF HIS TERM, TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR MAY APPOINT A TEMPORARY MAGISTRATE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT ANY MAGISTRATE OR MAGISTRATE CANDIDATE WHO HAS BEEN REPRIMANDED BY THE SUPREME COURT OR ANY OTHER DISCIPLINARY AUTHORITY MAY NOT BE APPOINTED OR REAPPOINTED UNLESS APPROVED BY A MAJORITY OF THE SENATE AFTER THE SENATE IS INFORMED OF THE REPRIMAND OR DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

Magistrates

Tom Young, Jr.Republican

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A SPECIFIED PROCEDURE FOR THE ENACTMENT OR REPEAL OF LAWS BY INITIATIVE PETITION AND REFERENDUM, TO AMEND THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, BY ADDING SECTION 1B TO ARTICLE III SO AS TO PROVIDE THE NUMBER OF SIGNATURES REQUIRED AND THE TIME PERIOD OVER WHICH THE SIGNATURES MUST BE COLLECTED, TO REQUIRE IN AN INITIATIVE THE AMOUNT AND SOURCE OF REVENUE FOR IMPLEMENTATION, TO PROVIDE THOSE MATTERS WHICH MAY NOT BE THE SUBJECT OF AN INITIATIVE PETITION, AND TO REQUIRE A CERTIFIED INITIATIVE TO BE FILED WITH EACH BRANCH OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, WHICH BY MAJORITY VOTE MAY ADOPT, AMEND, OR REJECT THE INITIATIVE; TO PROVIDE THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, BE PLACED ON THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTION FOR REPRESENTATIVES; TO AMEND THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, BY ADDING SECTION 4 TO ARTICLE XVI SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PROCEDURE FOR AN INITIATIVE METHOD OF AMENDING THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE; AND TO PROVIDE THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE XVI OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, BE PLACED ON THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTION FOR REPRESENTATIVES.

Ballot Initiative

Margie Bright MatthewsDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-17-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ELIGIBLE TO HOLD THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK OF COURT OF COMMON PLEAS.

Clerk of Court Requirements

Margie Bright MatthewsDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION BANK ACT"; AND BY ADDING CHAPTER 59 TO TITLE 11 SO AS TO CREATE THE "SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION BANK," TO ESTABLISH A GOVERNING BOARD, TO PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS OF THE BANK, TO FUND THE BANK, TO PROVIDE LIABILITY PROTECTIONS, TO PROVIDE FOR DEPOSITS, TO PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, TO PROVIDE FOR LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD FUNDING REQUEST REQUIREMENTS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.

SC Education Bank Act

Ronnie A. SabbDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-292 AND SECTION 38-71-820 BOTH SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS AND OUTLINE THE APPLICABILITY AND REQUIREMENTS FOR COST SHARING FOR INSURERS; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-2270 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS AND OUTLINE THE APPLICABILITY AND REQUIREMENTS FOR COST SHARING FOR PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGERS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-2200, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING PHARMACY BENEFITS MANAGERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.

Pharmacy insurance benefits cost-sharing

Michael W. GambrellRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-140, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF LICENSES AND PERMITS FOR THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS, BEER, AND WINE, SO AS TO A PERSON LICENSED OR PERMITTED UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THIS TITLE WHO MAINTAINS A LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICY OR A GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICY WITH A LIQUOR LIABILITY ENDORSEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 61-2-145 MUST SURRENDER HIS LICENSE UPON THE THIRD OCCURRENCE DURING ANY ONE CALENDAR YEAR OF AN EVENT OR SERIES OF EVENTS THAT ACTIVATES COVERAGE FOR THE INSURED; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-145, RELATING TO LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE REQUIRED FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO REDUCE THE REQUIREMENT FROM ONE MILLION DOLLARS TO TWO HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-3-530, RELATING TO A THREE YEAR TIME PERIOD FOR THE COMMENCEMENT OF ACTIONS OTHER THAN FOR THE RECOVERY OF REAL PROPERTY SHALL BE AS PRESCRIBED IN THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS SO AS TO ADD ANY ACTION ON A POLICY OF INSURANCE REQUIRED PURSUANT TO SECTION 61-2-145; BY ADDING SECTION 15-38-12 SO AS TO PROVIDE A NECESSARY DEFINITION; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-38-15, RELATING TO JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PLAINTIFF THAT IS FIFTY PERCENT OR GREATER AT FAULT FOR THE INCIDENT RESULTING IN THE DAMAGES FOR WHICH HE IS SEEKING RECOVERY, THEN THE JURY SHALL RETURN A VERDICT FOR THE DEFENDANT, AND IF THE PLAINTIFF IS NOT FIFTY PERCENT OR MORE AT FAULT THEN THE DEFENDANTS ARE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES IN DIRECT PROPORTION TO THEIR PERCENTAGE OF FAULT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 15-33-135, RELATING TO PUNITIVE DAMAGES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT PUNITIVE DAMAGES ON ANY ACTION ON A POLICY OF INSURANCE REQUIRED PURSUANT TO SECTION 61-2-145.

Tort Reform

Josh KimbrellRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-250 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP AND ADOPT ACADEMIC STANDARDS THAT INCORPORATE THE BIBLE INTO ITS CURRICULUM FOR WORLD HISTORY, THE HISTORY OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION, UNITED STATES HISTORY, SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORY, AND LITERATURE.

School Curriculum

Josh KimbrellRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 56 TO TITLE 46, SO AS TO REGULATE THE SALE AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRODUCTS CONTAINING HEMP-DERIVED CANNABINOID; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-380, RELATING TO TOBACCO-FREE SCHOOL CAMPUS POLICY, SO AS TO ADD REFERENCES TO HEMP-DERIVED CANNABINOIDS.

Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids

Deon T. TedderDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-455, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT SCHOOLS ALLOT TIME FOR THE RECITATION OF THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE, SO AS TO REQUIRE PUPILS TO SALUTE THE UNITED STATES FLAG AND RECITE THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.

Pledge

Mike ReichenbachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-1-65, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY/SECOND AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT OF 2024, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE MUST DISMISS SELECT PENDING UNLAWFUL HANDGUN POSSESSION CHARGES.

Dismissal of pending Handgun possession charges

Deon T. TedderDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-31-9010 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTS OF THIS STATE WHO OWN OR POSSESS FIREARMS SHALL OBTAIN AND CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE THAT COVERS LOSSES OR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM ANY NEGLIGENT OR ACCIDENTAL USE OF THE FIREARM, TO PROVIDE THAT PROOF INSURANCE MUST BE DISPLAYED UPON DEMAND BY LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIE FOR VIOLATIONS.

Firearm Liability Insurance

Tameika Isaac DevineDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 24-3-180, RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION AND CLOTHES FOR DISCHARGED INMATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE INMATE MUST BE PROVIDED WITH WRITTEN NOTICE THAT THE INMATE IS ELIGIBLE TO REGISTER TO VOTE AND INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING HOW TO REGISTER TO VOTE; BY ADDING SECTION 24-13-190 SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 24-21-280, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF PROBATION AGENTS AND THE AUTHORITY TO ENFORCE CRIMINAL LAWS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CONVICTED OF A FELONY WHO, BY COMPLETING SUPERVISION, HAS COMPLETED ALL TERMS OF HIS SENTENCE MUST BE PROVIDED WITH THE CONTACT INFORMATION OF THE VOTER REGISTRATION BOARD; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-120, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR REGISTRATION AND PERSONS DISQUALIFIED FROM REGISTERING OR VOTING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON FORMERLY DISQUALIFIED FROM VOTING MUST PROVIDE VERIFICATION AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION THAT HE HAS SERVED HIS SENTENCE.

Voting Rights Notification

Tameika Isaac DevineDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 48-1-91 SO AS TO REQUIRE ANY PERSON POSSESSING A NPDES PERMIT WHICH ALLOWS THE DISCHARGE OF EFFLUENT INTO STATE WATERS TO POST A SIGN, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REQUIREMENTS OF THAT SIGN, AND TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES TO WAIVE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION.

NPDES Outlet Sign

Tameika Isaac DevineDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-221 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FIRST THIRTY THOUSAND DOLLARS OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF A SMALL BUSINESS IS EXEMPT FROM COUNTY, MUNICIPAL, SCHOOL, AND SPECIAL ASSESSMENT REAL ESTATE PROPERTY TAXES.

Small Business Property Tax Relief

Carlisle KennedyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-170 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL DEVELOP A MODEL USE OF FORCE POLICY THAT MAY BE ADOPTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES, TO MANDATE USE OF FORCE TRAINING AT THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, TO PROVIDE THAT A LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY THAT DOES NOT IMPLEMENT A USE OF FORCE POLICY LOSES QUALIFIED IMMUNITY FOR ITS OFFICERS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IN A DEPARTMENT THAT DOES NOT ADOPT AN APPROVED USE OF FORCE POLICY ARE NOT SUBJECT TO QUALIFIED IMMUNITY FOR ANY INCIDENT THAT OCCURS WHICH WOULD BE ADDRESSED BY THE MODEL USE OF FORCE POLICY.

Use of Force

Tameika Isaac DevineDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 2-3-21 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ADDITIONAL IN-DISTRICT COMPENSATION TO BE USED TO HIRE PRIVATE SECURITY OR INSTALL SECURITY DEVICES.

In-district expenses

Matthew W. "Matt" LeberRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-15-36 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR COURT ORDERED THIRD-PARTY MONITORING AS AN ADDITIONAL CONDITION FOR BOND AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS.

Condition for Bond

Thomas C. AlexanderRepublican

S 0153

Matthew W. "Matt" LeberRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "EMERGENCY ORDER BALANCE OF POWERS ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-420, RELATING TO PROCLAMATIONS BY THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS IN WHICH A PROCLAMATION SHALL TERMINATE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-440, RELATING TO DECLARATIONS OF A STATE OF EMERGENCY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS IN WHICH A DECLARED STATE OF EMERGENCY SHALL TERMINATE.

Emergency Order Balance of Powers Act

George E. "Chip" Campsen IIIRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-215(N), (P), AND (S), RELATING TO CONCEALABLE WEAPON PERMITS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PERMITS TO BE AUTOMATICALLY ISSUED UPON CERTAIN CONDITIONS AND TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH OUT-OF-STATE PERMITS MUST BE HONORED.

Concealed Weapon Permit Program

George E. "Chip" Campsen IIIRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-63-100, RELATING TO THE PROCESS THROUGH WHICH A PERSON MAY MAKE CHANGES TO HIS BIRTH CERTIFICATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT GENDER CHANGES TO A PERSON'S BIRTH CERTIFICATE MAY ONLY BE TO CHANGE FROM MALE TO FEMALE OR FROM FEMALE TO MALE, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES AND TIMING LIMITATIONS OF GENDER CHANGES.

Vital Statistics - Changes to Birth Certificates

Daniel B. "Danny" Verdin IIIRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "CAMPUS FREE EXPRESSION ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 TO TITLE 59, CHAPTER 101, SO AS TO LIST AND PROTECT FREE EXPRESSION RIGHTS; TO IDENTIFY PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE OUTDOOR AREAS OF PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION CAMPUSES AS PUBLIC FORUMS; TO GUARANTEE EXISTING EXPRESSIVE ACTIVITY PROTECTIONS; TO PERMIT PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO CHARGE SECURITY FEES FOR EXPRESSIVE ACTIVITIES BASED ON NEUTRAL CRITERIA; TO PROVIDE FOR CAUSES OF ACTION FOLLOWING A VIOLATION OF EXPRESSIVE RIGHTS; AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.

Campus Free Expression Act

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-21-870, RELATING TO PERSONAL WATERCRAFT AND BOATING SAFETY, SO AS TO REQUIRE ANY PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF THIRTEEN TO WEAR A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE ON ANY SIZE VESSEL UNLESS THE PERSON IS IN THE CABIN OR BELOW DECK OF THE VESSEL.

Personal Floatation Device

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-90, RELATING TO THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF EYEGLASSES IS THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE PURCHASE LESS ANY INSURANCE BENEFITS PAID.

Gross Proceeds of Sales

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-13-180 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SCENT OF MARIJUANA ALONE DOES NOT PROVIDE LAW ENFORCEMENT WITH REASONABLE SUSPICION OR PROBABLE CAUSE TO SUPPORT A STOP, SEARCH, SEIZURE, OR ARREST.

Search and Seizure, Marijuana Odor

Deon T. TedderDemocrat