Bills & Legislation

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.

Hemp Derived Canabis

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

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING "JADEN'S LAW"; BY ADDING SECTION 50-21-118 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF VARIOUS LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES, FIRST RESPONDERS, AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICE PROVIDERS WHEN CERTAIN BOATING ACCIDENTS OCCUR, AND TO PROVIDE BOAT LANDINGS MUST BE CLEARLY IDENTIFIED.

Jaden's Law

Jermaine L. Johnson, Sr.Democrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE DEFINITION OF "HOUSEHOLD MEMBER" AND TO DEFINE "DATING RELATIONSHIP"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-40, RELATING TO PETITIONS FOR AN ORDER OF PROTECTION, SO AS TO DESIGNATE PEOPLE WHO CAN APPLY FOR AN ORDER OF PROTECTION ON BEHALF OF A MINOR.

Domestic Violence

Beth E. BernsteinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-560 SO AS TO PROVIDE PERSONS WHO ARE REQUIRED TO REGISTER AS SEX OFFENDERS MAY PETITION THE COURT TO TERMINATE THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENT TEN YEARS FROM THE DATE OF INITIAL REGISTRATION UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-460, RELATING TO BIANNUAL REGISTRATION FOR LIFE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE MAXIMUM PERIOD OF REGISTRATION IS FIFTEEN YEARS.

Sex offenders

John Richard C. KingDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-3-130, RELATING TO ALIMONY, SO AS TO DEFINE "EARNING POTENTIAL.

Alimony

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-15-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO CHILD CUSTODY, SO AS TO ADD A DEFINITION FOR "LEGAL CUSTODY.

Legal Custody

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-3-130, RELATING TO ALIMONY, SO AS TO DEFINE "SUPPORTED SPOUSE.

Alimony

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-590, RELATING TO CONDUCT OF CERTAIN FAMILY COURT HEARINGS, SO AS TO REQUIRE A JURY TRIAL IN LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES.

Family Court

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 43-5-12 SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT CHILDREN BEING CARED FOR BY NONPARENTAL CAREGIVERS IN A HOUSEHOLD QUALIFIED TO RECEIVE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM BENEFITS MUST BE COUNTED AS MEMBERS OF THE HOUSEHOLD FOR BENEFIT CALCULATION PURPOSES.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

Leon D. "Doug" GilliamRepublican

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 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 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 CHAPTER 12 TO TITLE 44 SO AS TO CREATE THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF HEALTH AND POLICY TO INCLUDE THE DEPARTMENTS OF HEALTH FINANCING, PUBLIC HEALTH, AGING, INTELLECTUAL AND RELATED DISABILITIES, AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DUTIES OF THE SECRETARY OF THE OFFICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-10, RELATING TO DEPARTMENTS OF STATE GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-17-370, RELATING TO THE MEDIATION OF GRIEVANCES BY THE STATE HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR, SO AS TO ADD THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND POLICY AND CERTAIN STAFF OF THE COMPONENT DEPARTMENTS; BY REPEALING CHAPTER 49 OF TITLE 44 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG ABUSE SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 44-1-20, 44-1-80, 44-1-90, 44-1-100, 44-1-110, 44-1-130, 44-1-140, 44-1-151, 44-1-152, 44-1-165, 44-1-170, 44-1-180, 44-1-190, 44-1-200, 44-1-210, 44-1-215, 44-1-220, 44-1-230, 44-1-260, 44-1-280, 44-1-290, 44-1-300, AND 44-1-310, ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-1-315, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CORRECTION; BY REPEALING SECTIONS 44-1-30, 44-1-40, 44-1-50, 44-1-70, 44-1-143, 44-1-145, AND 44-1-148 ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 6, TITLE 44, AND SECTIONS 44-6-140, 44-6-146, 44-6-150, 44-6-170, 44-6-190, 44-6-400, 44-6-530, 44-6-540, 44-6-720, 44-6-730, AND 44-6-1010, ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES PERTAINING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FINANCING; BY REPEALING ARTICLE 5 OF CHAPTER 6, TITLE 44 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 44-7-77, 44-7-80, 44-7-84, 44-7-90, 44-7-130, 44-7-150, 44-7-170, 44-7-190, 44-7-200, 44-7-210, 44-7-260, 44-7-265, 44-7-266, 44-7-370, 44-7-392, 44-7-510, 44-7-570, 44-7-1420, 44-7-1440, 44-7-1490, 44-7-1590, 44-7-1660, 44-7-1690, 44-7-2420, 44-7-2430, 44-7-2450, 44-7-2460, 44-7-2550, 44-7-2910, 44-7-2940, 44-7-3430, 44-7-3455, AND 44-7-3460, ALL RELATING TO HOSPITALS AND OTHER HEALTH SERVICES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY REPEALING SECTION 44-7-180 RELATING TO THE STATE HEALTH PLANNING COMMITTEE; BY AMENDING CHAPTER 9, TITLE 44, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES PERTAINING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH; BY ADDING SECTIONS 44-9-95 AND 44-9-105 SO AS TO ADD TO THE CHAPTER PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO SERVICES AND TREATMENT FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS AND TO ADDRESS SERVICE CONTRACTS BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND SERVICE PROVIDERS; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 44-20-10, 44-20-20, 44-20-30, 44-20-210, 44-20-220, 44-20-230, 44-20-240, 44-20-250, 44-20-255, 44-20-260, 44-20-270, 44-20-280, 44-20-290, 44-20-300, 44-20-310, 44-20-320, 44-20-330, 44-20-340, 44-20-350, 44-20-355, 44-20-360, 44-20-365, 44-20-370, 44-20-375, 44-20-378, 44-20-380, 44-20-385, 44-20-390, 44-20-400, 44-20-410, 44-20-420, 44-20-430, 44-20-440, 44-20-490, 44-20-510, 44-20-710, 44-20-740, 44-20-900, AND ARTICLE 7, CHAPTER 20, TITLE 44, ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES PERTAINING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INTELLECTUAL AND RELATED DISABILITIES; BY ADDING SECTION 44-20-372 SO AS TO ADDRESS SERVICE CONTRACTS BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OF INTELLECTUAL AND RELATED DISABILITIES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 43-21-10, 43-21-20, 43-21-40, 43-21-60, 43-21-70, 43-21-80, 43-21-100, 43-21-110, 43-21-120, 43-21-130, AND 43-21-140, ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT ON AGING, ALL SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 48-6-60, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

Executive Office of Health Policy

Lee HewittRepublican

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 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 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 R. Spann-WilderDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE SALES TAX SO AS TO EXEMPT BABY FORMULA, BABY FOOD, AND DIAPERS FOR BABIES AND CHILDREN.

Sales tax exemption

Beth E. BernsteinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-390 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE, DEFINE TERMS, AND ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO ADD THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO THE TERMINATION OF SEX OFFENDER REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO CLARIFY WHEN AN OFFENDER MAY FILE A REQUEST FOR TERMINATION OF THE REQUIREMENT.

AI Child Abuse

Paula Rawl CalhoonRepublican

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 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 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 "SOUTH CAROLINA SPORTS WAGERING ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 55 TO TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE OPERATION OF SPORTS WAGERING AND ANCILLARY ACTIVITIES ARE LAWFUL IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO CREATE THE SOUTH CAROLINA SPORTS WAGERING COMMISSION, TO PROVIDE A PRIVILEGE TAX, TO PROVIDE FOR LICENSES, TO PROVIDE FOR PERSONS WHO ARE INELIGIBLE TO ENGAGE IN WAGERING IN THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMISSION SHALL PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, TO PROVIDE ENFORCEMENT, AND TO PROVIDE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-19-135 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO ENGAGES IN SPORTS WAGERING IS NOT IN VIOLATION OF CERTAIN LAWS.

Interactive Sports Wagering

Murphy

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 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 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 AMENDING SECTION 59-26-110, RELATING TO MANDATORY TEACHER TRAINING IN YOUTH SUICIDE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION AS A CONDITION TO RENEWING THEIR CREDENTIALS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SUCH TRAINING FOR INDIVIDUALS EMPLOYED IN A KINDERGARTEN THROUGH TWELFTH GRADE SCHOOL OR INSTITUTION OF HIGHTER EDUCATION.

Youth suicide awareness and prevention training in schools

Beth E. BernsteinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-375, RELATING TO STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS AND CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE, SO AS TO INCLUDE PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND SCHOOLS SERVING KINDERGARTEN THROUGH TWELFTH GRADE, AND TO PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF DELIVERY OF INFORMATION FOR SCHOOLS THAT DO NOT ISSUE IDENTIFICATION CARDS.

Student ID cards

Paula Rawl CalhoonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOCIAL WORK INTERSTATE COMPACT ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 63, TITLE 40 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSE, FUNCTIONS, OPERATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE COMPACT; AND TO DESIGNATE THE EXISTING PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 63, TITLE 40 AS ARTICLE 1, ENTITLED "GENERAL PROVISIONS.

Social Workers Compact

Leon D. "Doug" GilliamRepublican

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 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 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 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 ADDING SECTION 7-11-5 SO AS TO REQUIRE PRIMARY ELECTIONS FOR COUNTY, STATE, AND FEDERAL OFFICES, EXCEPT FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT, TO BE CONDUCTED AS NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY ELECTIONS IN WHICH THE TWO CANDIDATES RECEIVING THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF VOTES ADVANCE TO THE GENERAL ELECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-10, RELATING TO METHODS OF NOMINATING CANDIDATES, SO AS TO REPLACE REFERENCES TO POLITICAL PARTY PRIMARIES AND CONVENTIONS WITH THE CONDUCTING OF A NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-15, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS TO RUN AS A CANDIDATE IN GENERAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW ALL PERSONS SEEKING NOMINATION VIA NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY TO FILE A STATEMENT OF INTENTION OF CANDIDACY ACCOMPANIED BY EITHER A FILING FEE OR A NOMINATING PETITION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT WRITE-IN CANDIDACIES ARE PERMITTED FOR ANY OFFICE ON THE NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY BALLOT, BUT NOT ON THE GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-40, RELATING TO THE CONDUCT OF PARTY PRIMARIES, SO AS TO REPLACE REFERENCES TO POLITICAL PARTY PRIMARIES WITH NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY, TO PROVIDE THAT ALL CANDIDATES FOR AN OFFICE TO BE VOTED ON IN THE NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY ARE LISTED ON A SINGLE BALLOT REGARDLESS OF POLITICAL PARTY AFFILIATION, IF ANY, AND TO ALLOW A CANDIDATE TO CHOOSE TO HAVE A PARTY WITH WHICH HE AFFILIATES DESIGNATED BY HIS NAME ON THE BALLOT; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-330, RELATING TO FORM OF GENERAL ELECTION BALLOTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES AND REMOVE INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING STRAIGHT TICKET VOTING; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-350, RELATING TO CERTIFICATION OF CANDIDATES, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT THE TOP TWO VOTE EARNERS FOR AN OFFICE FROM THE NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY ARE TO BE CERTIFIED FOR INCLUSION ON THE GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-351, RELATING TO NOMINEES BY PETITION, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE DEADLINES FOR SUBMITTING NOMINATING PETITIONS WITH REGARDS TO THE NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY AS OPPOSED TO THE GENERAL ELECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-360, RELATING TO PLACE ON BALLOT FOR WRITE-IN NAMES, SO AS TO REQUIRE SUCH PLACES ON NONPARTISAN OPEN PRIMARY BALLOTS, BUT NOT ON GENERAL ELECTION BALLOTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-610, RELATING TO PRIMARY BALLOT SPECIFICATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-611, RELATING TO ARRANGEMENT OF OFFICIAL COUNTY AND STATE PRIMARY BALLOTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY REPEALING SECTION 7-11-30 RELATING TO CONVENTION NOMINATION OF CANDIDATES, SECTION 7-11-210 RELATING TO PARTY PLEDGE FILING REQUIREMENTS, AND SECTION 7-13-50 RELATING TO SECOND AND OTHER PRIMARIES.

Blanket primaries

Beth E. BernsteinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-375, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS APPLICABLE TO CERTAIN OFFENSES AGAINST MINORS PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 16-15-385 THROUGH 16-15-425, SO AS TO DEFINE "IDENTIFIABLE MINOR" AND "MORPHED IMAGE"; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCORPORATE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN WITHIN THE PURVIEW OF THIS SECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCORPORATE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN WITHIN THE PURVIEW OF THIS SECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCORPORATE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN WITHIN THE PURVIEW OF THIS SECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCORPORATE THOSE CONVICTED OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE WITHIN THE CLASSIFICATION OF TIER II OFFENDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE TIME AFTER WHICH THE OFFENDER MAY REQUEST TERMINATION OF THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENT.

MPIC

Paula Rawl CalhoonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 22-1-10, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT, TERM, AND JURISDICTION OF MAGISTRATES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH TWO CLASSES OF MAGISTRATES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPOINTMENT, TERM, AND QUALIFICATIONS OF CLASS 2 MAGISTRATES; BY AMENDING SECTION 22-1-15, RELATING TO MAGISTRATES PRESENTLY SERVING, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 22-1-30, RELATING TO SUSPENSION, REMOVAL, OR NONREAPPOINTMENT OF MAGISTRATES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 22-2-5, RELATING TO ELIGIBILITY EXAMINATIONS FOR MAGISTRATES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES AND SUBJECT CLASS 2 MAGISTRATES TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF CHAPTER 19, TITLE 2 OF THE S.

Magistrates

Donald Ryan McCabe, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "MEETING TRANSPARENCY ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 2-1-260 SO AS TO REQUIRE MEETINGS OF LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES TO BE MADE AVAILABLE ONLINE AS WELL AS CERTAIN DOCUMENTS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-180 SO AS TO REQUIRE SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS TO BE MADE AVAILABLE ONLINE.

Meeting Transparency Act

Robert J. "Rob" HarrisRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "EARMARK TRANSPARENCY ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 2-1-270 SO AS TO SET FORTH THE MANNER IN WHICH EARMARKS MAY BE AWARDED.

Earmark Transparency Act

Robert J. "Rob" HarrisRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "U.

U.S. Senate Accountability Act

Josiah MagnusonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-840, RELATING TO AGE EXEMPTION FROM JURY SERVICE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AGE FOR EXEMPTION FROM SIXTY-FIVE YEARS TO SEVENTY YEARS.

Juror age exemption

James Mikell "Mike" BurnsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 12 TO CHAPTER 17, TITLE 58 ENTITLED "UTILITY FACILITIES CROSSING OR PARALLELING RAILROADS" SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS; TO ESTABLISH APPLICABILITY OF THE ACT; TO REQUIRE A UTILITY TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION; TO PROVIDE STANDARDIZED FEES; TO ALLOW FOR THE CONTINUATION OF EXISTING AGREEMENTS; AND TO PROVIDE A DISPUTE RESOLUTION MECHANISM THROUGH THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION.

Railroad crossing fees

Gary S. Brewer, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 36 TO TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR A PEER-TO-PEER CAR SHARING PROGRAM, TO OUTLINE INSURANCE AND LIABILITY PROCEDURES, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS.

Peer-to-peer Car Sharing

Gary S. Brewer, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "FREEDOM TO READ PROTECTIONS AND RESPECT FOR SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALIST AUTONOMY ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 59-31-55 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO AFFIRM CERTAIN RIGHTS CONCERNING STUDENT ACCESS TO DIVERSE AND DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE READING MATERIAL, TO PROVIDE THE RIGHT FOR SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALISTS TO AUTONOMOUSLY MAKE CERTAIN DECISIONS ABOUT CURATING AND MAINTAINING MATERIALS IN THEIR SCHOOL LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER COLLECTIONS, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR FORMAL CHALLENGES TO SUCH MATERIALS, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED RIGHTS OF PUBLIC SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALISTS AND OTHER PUBLIC SCHOOL PROFESSIONALS WHEN PERFORMING RELATED PROFESSIONAL DUTIES IN GOOD FAITH.

Freedom to Read Protections and Respect for School Librarian Autonomy

Heather BauerDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT FORTY-TWO AND THREE QUARTERS PERCENT OF THE NET DEPRECIATED VALUE OF BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY.

Property tax exemption

John Richard C. KingDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-310, RELATING TO OPEN SEASONS FOR HUNTING ANTLERED DEER, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE OPEN SEASON IN GAME ZONES 1 AND 2 FOR HUNTING ANTLERED DEER WITH ARCHERY EQUIPMENT AND FIREARMS IS OCTOBER 11 THROUGH JANUARY 15.

Open season for deer hunting

Robert J. "Rob" HarrisRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3150, RELATING TO DETERMINING WHEN AN ASSESSABLE TRANSFER OF INTEREST OCCURS, SO AS TO EXCLUDE TRANSFERS MADE AMONGST RELATED DESCENDANTS TO CLEAR THE TITLE OF THE HEIRS' PROPERTY.

Heirs' property

Kathy LandingRepublican

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS AND TO DECLARE APRIL 1, 2025, AS "SOUTH CAROLINA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

SCAAP Day in SC

Beth E. BernsteinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-1-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "EXEMPT COMMERCIAL POLICIES"; AND BY ADDING CHAPTER 105 TO TITLE 38 SO AS TO REQUIRE INSURERS OFFERING LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE TO ESTABLISH RISK-BASED PRICING, TO ESTABLISH A LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE FUND, AND TO REQUIRE ANNUAL REPORTING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE, AMONG OTHER THINGS.

Liquor Liability

David MartinRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "BOOSTING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALL STARTUPS (BOSS) ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-532 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS FROM THE CORPORATE INCOME TAX FOR CERTAIN SMALL BUSINESSES.

Boosting Opportunities for Small Startups Act

David MartinRepublican