Bills & Legislation

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "CASH BERRY CHILDCARE SAFETY AND QUALITY RATING ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 63-13-220 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A CHILDCARE FACILITY SAFETY AND QUALITY GRADING SYSTEM AND TO PROMULGATE APPLICABLE REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENT THE SYSTEM; TO REQUIRE LICENSED CHILDCARE FACILITIES TO POST THEIR GRADE ON A PLACARD IN A PROMINENT LOCATION AND TO PROHIBIT TAMPERING WITH THE PLACARD; TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH A SEARCHABLE ONLINE DATABASE WITH CHILDCARE FACILITY GRADES AND INSPECTION HISTORY; TO ALLOW CHILDCARE FACILITIES TO REQUEST REINSPECTIONS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES FOR CHILDCARE FACILITIES THAT FAIL TO DISPLAY THEIR ASSIGNED GRADE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Childcare Facilities

David MartinRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-1093 SO AS TO CREATE DOXING AS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

Anti-Doxxing Act

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-1-315 SO AS TO PROVIDE EACH PUBLIC ELEMENTARY, MIDDLE, OR SECONDARY SCHOOL IN THIS STATE SHALL DISPLAY IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE IN EACH CLASSROOM OF THE SCHOOL A POSTER OR FRAMED COPY OF THE TEN COMMANDMENTS THAT MEETS CERTAIN SPECIFIED REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ACQUISITION OF SUCH POSTERS AND DONATIONS OF SURPLUS POSTERS.

Display of Ten Commandments in public schools

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-130, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF LICENSES AND LICENSE EXAMINATIONS ADMINISTERED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DRIVER'S LICENSE EXAMINATIONS MAY BE ADMINISTERED IN ENGLISH ONLY.

Driver's license

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 39-1-100 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN MANUFACTURERS' WARRANTIES ON HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEMS AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFER TO NEW OWNERS IN THE EVENT OF A TRANSFER OF THE REAL PROPERTY.

Warranty Transfer

Cody T. MitchellRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 39-5-39, RELATING TO AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISING IN A FALSE, DECEPTIVE, OR MISLEADING MANNER, SO AS TO DEFINE FALSE ADVERTISING; TO PROVIDE THAT ANY ADVERTISING FOR LEGAL SERVICES THAT REFERENCES A SETTLEMENT OBTAINED ON BEHALF OF A CLIENT MUST DISCLOSE THE AMOUNT OF ATTORNEY FEES AND LITIGATION COSTS DEDUCTED FROM THE RECOVERY; TO REQUIRE THE LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT TO CLARIFY THAT ANY REFERENCED RESULTS ARE NOT REPRESENTATIVE OF ALL CASES AND THAT OUTCOMES DEPEND ON THE SPECIFIC FACTS OF EACH CASE; AND TO PROVIDE THAT ANY ADVERTISING FOR LEGAL SERVICES THAT STATES THAT THE FILING OF A LAWSUIT IS AGAINST AN INSURANCE COMPANY OR OTHER THIRD PARTY MUST DISCLOSE THE FACT THAT ANY LAWSUIT WOULD BE FILED AGAINST AN INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS THAT WOULD BE NAMED AS THE DEFENDANT AND THAT THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS ONLY PROVIDING THE COVERAGE ON BEHALF OF THE NAMED INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS BASED ON A POLICY PURCHASED BY THE INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS.

Lawyer Advertising Unfair Practice

William H. BaileyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-600, RELATING TO ASSAULT AND BATTERY OFFENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ASSAULT AND BATTERY OF A HIGH AND AGGRAVATED NATURE OCCURS WHEN A PERSON THREATENS, INTIMIDATES, HARASSES, STALKS, OR OTHERWISE INJURES A FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OR CORRECTIONS OFFICER; A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL, HEALTHCARE WORKER, OR AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE EMPLOYEE; OR AN EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONAL DURING OR BECAUSE OF THE PERSON'S OFFICIAL DUTIES.

Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated nature, certain victims

Joseph S. "Joe" WhiteRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-10-970, RELATING TO USE OF LOCAL OPTION TOURISM DEVELOPMENT FEE REVENUES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT UP TO FIFTY PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT RETAINED MAY BE USED BY THE MUNICIPALITY TO PROVIDE A CREDIT AGAINST PROPERTY TAX LIABILITY.

Tourism Development Fee

William G. "Bill" HerbkersmanRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "FORMING OPEN AND ROBUST UNIVERSITY MINDS (FORUM) ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 148 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE MEASURES TO PROTECT EXPRESSIONS BY STUDENTS AND STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS IN CERTAIN PLACES ON THE CAMPUSES OF PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS FOR POLICIES AND PROCEDURES, TO PROVIDE SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES OF PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING, AND TO PROVIDE MEANS OF REDRESS FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS ACT, AMONG OTHER THINGS.

FORUM Act of 2026

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-250 SO AS TO PROHIBIT SCHOOL DISTRICTS FROM REQUIRING TEACHERS TO ASSIGN A MINIMUM GRADE OR SCORE THAT EXCEEDS THE STUDENT'S ACTUAL PERFORMANCE.

Public school grading

Fawn M. PedalinoRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-3-25 SO AS TO DELINEATE ACTIONS THAT CONSTITUTE THE PRACTICE OF REGISTERED INTERIOR DESIGN AND SPECIFY EXCLUSIONS; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 40-3-5; 40-3-10; 40-3-20; 40-3-30; 40-3-80; 40-3-110; 40-3-115; 40-3-130; 40-3-140; 40-3-150; 40-3-200; 40-3-230; 40-3-240; 40-3-250; 40-3-260; 40-3-270; 40-3-280; 40-3-290; 40-3-300; 40-3-310; AND 40-3-320, ALL RELATING TO THE REGULATION OF ARCHITECTS, SO AS TO INCORPORATE PROVISIONS SIMILARLY REGULATING REGISTERED INTERIOR DESIGNERS; AND BY REDESIGNATING CHAPTER 3, TITLE 40, AS "ARCHITECTS AND REGISTERED INTERIOR DESIGNERS.

Interior Designers

Carla SchuesslerRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTIONS 63-7-2630 AND 63-9-765 SO AS TO REQUIRE FAMILY COURTS TO CONSIDER THE APPROPRIATENESS OF NO-CONTACT ORDERS OR SUPERVISED-CONTACT ORDERS WHEN TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS OR FINALIZING ADOPTIONS; TO AUTHORIZE THESE ORDERS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Child Welfare

Carla SchuesslerRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA FOSTERING FUTURES ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 111, TITLE 59, SO AS TO REQUIRE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO WAIVE TUITION AND FEES FOR CERTAIN CURRENT AND FORMER FOSTER YOUTH; TO PROVIDE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND LIMITS; AND TO REQUIRE INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT AND REPORTING.

South Carolina Fostering Futures Act

Carla SchuesslerRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-17-410, RELATING TO EMERGENCY ADMISSIONS OF INDIVIDUALS SUFFERING FROM MENTAL ILLNESS WHO POSE A DANGER TO THEMSELVES OR OTHERS, SO AS TO MAKE CHANGES TO THE ADMISSION AND COMMITMENT PROCESS, TO ENSURE THAT THE TREATING FACILITY HAS A COMPLETE MEDICAL HISTORY OF THESE PATIENTS, INCLUDING PRIOR HOSPITALIZATIONS, TO SPECIFY INFORMATION THAT MUST BE INCLUDED IN REPORTS OF DESIGNATED EXAMINERS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-17-580, RELATING TO INDIVIDUALS WITH MENTAL ILLNESS WHO DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE COURT-ORDERED OUTPATIENT TREATMENT, SO AS TO ADDRESS REQUIREMENTS OF SUPPLEMENTAL OR RULE TO SHOW CAUSE HEARINGS TO ADDRESS NONCOMPLIANCE; AND BY ADDING SECTION 44-12-70 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES TO MAINTAIN AN INTEGRATED DATABASE WITH COMPLETE MEDICAL RECORDS OF PATIENTS SERVED AT DEPARTMENT FACILITIES, A REGISTRY OF ORDERS OF TREATMENT, AND AN INVENTORY OF AVAILABLE FACILITY BEDS AND WAITLISTS.

Mental Illness

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS OVER THE AGE OF SEVENTY.

Property Tax Exemption

Donald G. "Don" ChapmanRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR ONE PERSONAL MOTOR VEHICLE FOR INDIVIDUALS OVER SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF AGE.

Motor Vehicle Property Tax Exemption

Donald G. "Don" ChapmanRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 53-1-20, RELATING TO COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES EXEMPT FROM THE PROHIBITION ON SUNDAY PUBLIC SPORTS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO CAMPUS EVENTS AND LAND USE APPROVAL, TO PROVIDE THAT NO COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY MAY PROHIBIT, RESTRICT, CONDITION, DELAY, OR REQUIRE LAND USE APPROVAL FOR EVENTS HELD ON THE CAMPUS OF A STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING BASED ON ZONING ORDINANCES OR LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS, AND TO CLARIFY THE APPLICATION OF GENERALLY APPLICABLE SAFETY LAWS.

University Campus Events Zoning

Thomas F. "Tom" Hartnett, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 25-11-730 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS SHALL ADOPT CRITERIA FOR ADMISSIONS TO AND DISCHARGES FROM SOUTH CAROLINA VETERANS HOMES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE SUBMISSION OF SUCH CRITERIA.

Veterans' homes

Wendell K. JonesDemocrat

A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO HONOR ALEX PRETTI AND HIS COMMITMENT TO CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND CIVIC VALUES, TO CONDEMN HIS MURDER BY FEDERAL AGENTS, AND TO CALL ON THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO HOLD TO ACCOUNT THOSE INDIVIDUALS WHO VIOLATE THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS OF UNITED STATES CITIZENS.

Alex Pretti

Heather BauerDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-116-45 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ADDITIONAL INCOME EARNED BY A CAMPUS POLICE OFFICER IS EXEMPT FROM THE DUAL EMPLOYMENT LIMITATION IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Campus police officer dual employment

Seth RoseDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 60-2-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PUBLIC EVICTION NOTICES THAT DID NOT RESULT IN AN ORDER OF EVICTION OR WRIT OF EJECTMENT BE REMOVED FROM THE PUBLIC INDEX IF AN ORDER OF EVICTION OR WRIT OF EJECTMENT WAS NOT FILED WITHIN THIRTY DAYS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT RESOLVED EVICTION FILINGS AND RECORDS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PUBLIC INDEX SIX YEARS AFTER THE FINAL DISPOSITION.

Removal of Certain Public Records

Ed SuttonDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "CHILD RAPIST DEATH PENALTY ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-655, RELATING TO CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT WITH A MINOR, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEATH PENALTY SHALL BE ENFORCED UNDER THIS SECTION NOTWITHSTANDING PREVIOUS DECISIONS OF THE SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES.

Child Rapist Death Penalty Act

Jordan S. PaceRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-58-50, RELATING TO REGULATION OF A QUALIFIED LOAN ORIGINATOR, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR EXPERIENCED QUALIFIED LOAN ORIGINATORS.

Qualified Loan Originator

Jason ElliottRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 25, TITLE 17 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATED TO PROFITS FROM A CRIME, TO PROVIDE A PRIORITY LIEN IN FAVOR OF THE STATE UPON ANY PROFITS OF CRIME PAYABLE TO OR ACCRUING TO A CONVICTED PERSON OR ANOTHER PERSON ON HIS BEHALF, TO PROVIDE LIEN ATTACHMENT AT THE TIME OF CONVICTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PROCEEDS, AND TO GIVE THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL THE AUTHORITY TO TAKE LEGAL ACTION AS NECESSARY TO PERFECT AND ENFORCE THE LIEN.

Profits from Crime

Stephen L. GoldfinchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 32 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATED TO THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC CHOICE; TO ALLOW AN ELIGIBLE CUSTOMER TO PERMIT ITS ELECTRICITY DEMAND FROM A THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC SUPPLIER; TO REQUIRE THE ELIGIBLE CUSTOMER TO PROVIDE ARRANGEMENT FOR FIRM TRANSMISSION SERVICE OF THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC TO THE INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIER'S TRANSMISSION SYSTEM; TO NOT HOLD THE INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIER LIABLE FOR ANY COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC SUPPLY; TO REQUIRE THE INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIER TO HAVE REMOTE CUTOFF CAPABILITIES IN PLACE FOR THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC SUPPLY; TO ASSIGN THE COST OF REQUIRED TRANSMISSION UPGRADES; TO REQUIRE A CUSTOMER TO CONTINUE TO PAY FOR CAPITAL COSTS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; TO REQUIRE AN INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIER TO PROVIDE COST-OF-SERVICE SUPPLY TO CUSTOMERS OR CUSTOMER LOAD RETURNING FROM A PERIOD OF RETAIL ACCESS SERVICE ON THE SAME TERMS, RATES, AND PRIORITY AS A NEW CUSTOMER REQUESTING SERVICE; AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO APPROVE A TARIFF CONTAINING A PRO FORMA CONTRACT AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.

Third-Party Electric Supplier

Michael JohnsonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-600, RELATING TO ASSAULT AND BATTERY OFFENSES, SO AS TO ADD THAT ASSAULT AND BATTERY OF A HIGH AND AGGRAVATED NATURE OCCURS WHEN A PERSON INJURES A CORRECTIONS OFFICER IN THE DISCHARGE OF OR BECAUSE OF THEIR OFFICIAL DUTIES.

Assault and Battery, corrections officials

Gary S. Brewer, Jr.Republican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-2-10, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF STATE AND FEDERAL INSURANCE LAWS IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO INCREASE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS BY INSURERS, PHARMACY BENEFITS MANAGERS, AND HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-2210, RELATING TO LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR PHARMACY BENEFITS MANAGERS, SO AS TO INCREASE LICENSE APPLICATION AND RENEWAL FEES.

Insurance penalties and fees

Heath SessionsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-9-145, RELATING TO COUNTY CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICERS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 47-3-20, RELATING TO THE AUTHORIZATION OF LOCAL ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL ORDINANCES, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY TO ALLOW CLASS 3 ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICERS TO CARRY FIREARMS.

Animal Control Officers

Jason S. LuckDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 11-27-110, RELATING TO LEASE PURCHASE OR FINANCING AGREEMENTS SUBJECT TO CONSTITUTIONAL DEBT LIMITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXPANDED DEFINITION OF FINANCING AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-27-40, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF THE NEW ARTICLE X ON BONDS OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY MEMBER OF A LOCAL GOVERNING BODY WHO KNOWINGLY VOTES IN FAVOR OF A PROPOSED ACTION THAT VIOLATES SECTION 14 OF THE NEW ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION IS GUILTY OF MISCONDUCT IN OFFICE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 11-27-50, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF THE NEW ARTICLE X ON BONDS OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY MEMBER OF A GOVERNING BODY OF THE STATE'S SCHOOL DISTRICTS WHO VOTES IN FAVOR OF A PROPOSED ACTION THAT KNOWINGLY VIOLATES SECTION 15 OF THE NEW ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION IS GUILTY OF MISCONDUCT IN OFFICE.

Financing Agreements

Thomas D. "Tom" CorbinRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SENTENCING ENHANCEMENTS FOR CRIMES AGAINST MINORS ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 22 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 16 SO AS TO ESTABLISH ADDITIONAL TERMS OF IMPRISONMENT FOR PERSONS CONVICTED OF CRIMES AGAINST MINORS AND TO PROHIBIT THE AVOIDANCE OR REDUCTION OF CRIMINAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR PERSONS CONVICTED OF CRIMES AGAINST MINORS DUE TO A VERDICT OR PLEA OF NOT GUILTY BY REASON OF INSANITY.

Enhanced Punishment for Crimes Against Minors

Kathy LandingRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-50, RELATING TO ESTABLISHMENT OF MUNICIPAL WARD LINES AND THE TIME FOR GENERAL AND SPECIAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTIONS BE HELD ON ONE OF CERTAIN ENUMERATED DATES; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-60, RELATING TO MUNICIPALITIES ADOPTING METHODS OF NOMINATING CANDIDATES AND DETERMINING ELECTION RESULTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY MUNICIPALITY WHICH ELECTS TO HOLD PARTISAN ELECTIONS FOR MUNICIPAL OFFICES IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING ALL COSTS AND EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONDUCT OF A MUNICIPAL PRIMARY; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-120, RELATING TO VOTE COUNTING IN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW MUNICIPALITIES TO DETERMINE WHEN NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS MAY BE QUALIFIED AND THEIR TERMS COMMENCE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A CANDIDATE DECLARED ELECTED HAS THE RIGHT TO TAKE THE OATH OF OFFICE AND PERFORM THE DUTIES OF THAT OFFICE PENDING THE OUTCOME OF AN APPEAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-130, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR CONTESTING THE RESULTS OF A MUNICIPAL ELECTION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DEADLINE FOR FILING A WRITTEN NOTICE OF A CONTEST, AND TO REQUIRE A MUNICIPAL ELECTION COMMISSION TO CONDUCT A HEARING ON A CONTEST BY A CERTAIN DATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-140, RELATING TO APPEALS FROM DECISIONS REGARDING MUNICIPAL ELECTION CONTESTS, SO AS TO REMOVE LANGUAGE INDICATING A NOTICE OF APPEAL STAYS FURTHER PROCEEDINGS PENDING APPEAL, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A COURT SHALL GIVE SUCH APPEALS FIRST PRIORITY OF CONSIDERATION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-145, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY TO CONDUCT MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS TO COUNTY BOARDS OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE COUNTY BOARDS OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS TO CONDUCT MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS FOR MUNICIPALITIES THAT ELECT TO TRANSFER THIS AUTHORITY.

Municipal elections

Brandon NewtonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "INJURED WORKERS TRANSPARENCY ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 42-15-45 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FORMS USED BY INJURED WORKERS TO FILE WORKERS COMPENSATION CLAIMS AND FORMS USED BY WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE CARRIERS TO DENY BENEFITS MUST PROVIDE CERTAIN EXPLICIT NOTICE OF NONREPRESENTATION AND APPEALS RIGHTS TO THE INJURED WORKERS, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF THE WORKERS COMPENSATION COMMISSION.

Injured Workers Transparency Act

Marvin "Mark" SmithRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-605 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "STRANGULATION," CREATE THE OFFENSES OF STRANGULATION AND AGGRAVATED STRANGULATION, PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR THE OFFENSES, AND PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION.

Strangulation

Micajah P. "Micah" Caskey IVRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-600, RELATING TO ASSAULT AND BATTERY OFFENSES, SO AS TO ADD THAT ASSAULT AND BATTERY OF A HIGH AND AGGRAVATED NATURE OCCURS WHEN A PERSON INJURES A CORRECTIONS OFFICER IN THE DISCHARGE OF OR BECAUSE OF THEIR OFFICIAL DUTIES.

Assault and Battery, corrections officials

Brian AdamsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-221 SO AS TO CREATE A TEN THOUSAND DOLLAR PROPERTY TAX CREDIT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES.

Small Business Property Tax Relief

Carlisle KennedyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODES OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2960 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CONVICTED OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE RESULTING IN THE DEATH OF A PARENT OR GUARDIAN MUST BE ORDERED TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT UNTIL THE CHILD OR DEPENDENT REACHES THE AGE OF TWENTY-TWO.

Driving Under the Influence

James E. TeepleRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-1-20, RELATING TO INSURANCE LAW DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "CONTINGENT DEFERRED ANNUITY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-69-220, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS FROM OPERATION OF THE STANDARD NONFORFEITURE LAW FOR INDIVIDUAL DEFERRED ANNUITIES, SO AS TO ADD AN EXCEPTION FOR CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE STANDARD NONFORFEITURE LAW FOR INDIVIDUAL DEFERRED ANNUITIES, AND TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE MAY PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR NONFORFEITURE BENEFITS FOR CONTINGENT DEFERRED ANNUITIES IN THE DISCRETION OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-44-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE MANAGING GENERAL AGENTS ACT, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE.

Contingent Deferred Annuities

Thomas R. "Randy" LigonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-67 SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTIFICATION OF PUBLIC SCHOOL STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACHES, TO ESTABLISH CERTIFICATION STANDARDS, REQUIRE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT, AND ESTABLISH OVERSIGHT AND COMPLIANCE PROCEDURES, AMONG OTHER THINGS.

Public School Strength and Conditioning Coaches

Travis A. MooreRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 TO CHAPTER 55, TITLE 44 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES TO CONDUCT TESTING FOR URINARY METABOLITES IN CERTAIN WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITIES AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR ITS FINDINGS.

Testing of drinking water

Sarita L. EdgertonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-1140, RELATING TO TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES ON LICENSED PREMISES, SO AS TO MODIFY THE TIME DURING WHICH TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES CAN OCCUR.

Micro-distillery tastings

William G. "Bill" HerbkersmanRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-600, RELATING TO RETIRED PERSONNEL, IDENTIFICATION CARDS, AND QUALIFICATION FOR CARRYING CONCEALED WEAPONS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT RESTRICTS THE CARRYING OF CONCEALED WEAPONS ONTO CERTAIN PREMISES, AND TO PROVIDE AT NO CHARGE, THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION SHALL ISSUE CONCEALED WEAPON PERMITS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES TO CERTAIN HOLDERS OF QUALIFIED RETIRED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CREDENTIALS.

Law enforcement officers

Richard L. "Richie" YowRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "DATA CENTER SITING ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-10 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO DATA CENTER SITING; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-20 SO AS TO REQUIRE A CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION BEFORE A DATA CENTER MAY BEGIN OPERATIONS IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICATION PROCESS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-30 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CERTIFICATION PROCEEDING PROCESS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-40 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PARTIES TO A CERTIFICATION PROCEEDING; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-50 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EVALUATIVE CRITERIA FOR CONSIDERATION OF AN APPLICATION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION OF A RECORD OF ANY HEARING AND TESTIMONY TAKEN CERTIFICATION PROCEEDING; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-70 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTING OR DENYING AN APPLICATION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-80 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF AN ORDER BY THE COMMISSION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-90 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY STANDARDS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-100 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR WATER EFFICIENCY STANDARDS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-110 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL REPORTING ON COMPLIANCE WITH WATER EFFICIENCY STANDARDS AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY STANDARDS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE ADEQUACY ASSESSMENTS, TO PROVIDE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR REASONABLE BUFFER REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-130 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION'S ROLE CONCERNING RATES, AGREEMENTS BETWEEN UTILITIES AND DATA CENTERS, AND COST ALLOCATION METHODOLOGIES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-140 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR DECOMMISSIONING PLANS AND FINANCIAL ASSURANCES ASSOCIATED WITH DECOMMISSIONING; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-150 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE INTERACTION BETWEEN THE PROVISIONS OF THIS CHAPTER AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT LAND USE PLANNING; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-160 SO AS TO REQUIRE DATA CENTERS TO IMPLEMENT REASONABLE MEASURES TO MINIMIZE NOISE, VIBRATION, AND LIGHT IMPACTS RESULTING FROM THEIR OPERATION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-170 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROTECTIONS FOR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION SHARED BY DATA CENTER OPERATORS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-180 SO AS TO CLARIFY THE INTERACTION BETWEEN THIS CHAPTER AND OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-44-190 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES; TO PROVIDE FOR REGULATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION, THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF, AND THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES; PROVIDE THAT FOR TWO YEARS AFTER ENACTMENT THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES SHALL PRIORITIZE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND GUIDANCE OVER ENFORCEMENT TO FACILITATE INDUSTRY TRANSITION TO THE NEW REQUIREMENTS; AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO CREATE A GENERIC DOCKET BY THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO IMPLEMENT THIS ACT AND DEVELOP REGULATIONS; AND PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL REPORTING BY THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION.

Data Centers

Luke A. RankinRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-97 SO AS TO ESTABLISH UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES; TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; TO LIMIT THE EXCUSAL OF STUDENTS FROM CORE ACADEMIC CLASSES; TO RESTRICT THE USE OF INSTRUCTIONAL FUNDS FOR INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES; TO ESTABLISH ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY AND INDEPENDENT ACADEMIC REVIEW REQUIREMENTS; AND TO PROVIDE RELATED SCHOOL DISTRICT POLICIES, OVERSIGHT, AND ENFORCEMENT REQUIREMENTS.

Uniform Requirements for Interscholastic Activity Participation Act

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-23-1610, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS APPLICABLE TO THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "PERSONAL VEHICLE"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 58-23-1610, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "PREARRANGED RIDE.

Transportation Network Companies

Ed SuttonDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PROTECTION OF MINORS FROM PORNOGRAPHY AND OBSCENITIES ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-375, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS APPLICABLE TO THE ARTICLE REGARDING OBSCENITY LAWS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITIONS OF "HARMFUL TO MINORS" AND "MATERIAL" TO INCLUDE ANY PORTION OF MATERIALS AND PERFORMANCES THAT MAY BE CONSIDERED OBSCENE, AND TO DEFINE THE TERM "PROFANE LANGUAGE"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-385, RELATING TO THE OFFENSES OF DISSEMINATING HARMFUL MATERIAL TO MINORS AND EXHIBITING HARMFUL PERFORMANCES TO MINORS, DEFENSES, AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO LIMIT THE AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE PROVIDED BY THE STATUTE ONLY TO THE TEACHING OF AGE-APPROPRIATE SEX EDUCATION AND HUMAN BIOLOGY CURRICULUM.

Protection of Minors from Pornography and Obscenities Act

Rex F. RiceRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-33-130 SO AS TO PROVIDE ALL K-12 PUBLIC SCHOOLS SHALL RECORD ALL SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE RETENTION AND DISCLOSURE OF RECORDINGS, TO PROVIDE CONSENT AND PRIVACY REQUIREMENTS, TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, TO PROVIDE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS OF SCHOOLS, AND TO PROHIBIT THE COMMERCIAL USE OF RECORDINGS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.

Mandatory recording of public school instruction

James Mikell "Mike" BurnsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 30-5-25 SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS TO IMPLEMENT AND MAINTAIN A PROPERTY RECORDING NOTIFICATION SYSTEM, TO PROVIDE SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, TO REQUIRE THAT THE SERVICE BE OFFERED AT NO COST TO PROPERTY OWNERS, TO AUTHORIZE COUNTIES TO CONTRACT FOR SYSTEM SERVICES, TO PROVIDE IMMUNITY FOR SYSTEM FAILURES EXCEPT IN CASES OF GROSS NEGLIGENCE OR INTENTIONAL MISCONDUCT, AND TO ESTABLISH AN IMPLEMENTATION DEADLINE.

Property Recording Notification Systems

James Mikell "Mike" BurnsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 60-11-75 SO AS TO PROVIDE PLAQUES, MARKERS, OR OTHER MESSAGES ON HISTORICAL MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS ON PROPERTY OWNED BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS OF THE STATE OR SCHOOL DISTRICTS ARE SUBJECT TO REVIEW AND APPROVAL BY THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS FOR A RELATED REVIEW AND APPROVAL PROCESS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 60-11-30, RELATING TO OBJECTS AND PURPOSES OF THE DEPARTMENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.

Historical monuments

Steven Wayne LongRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PROXY ADVISOR TRANSPARENCY ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO REQUIRE PROXY ADVISORS TO ISSUE SPECIFIED DISCLOSURES WHEN MAKING CERTAIN RECOMMENDATIONS WITHOUT RELYING ON A WRITTEN FINANCIAL ANALYSIS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT A VIOLATION OF THIS ARTICLE IS A DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICE SUBJECT TO THE INVESTIGATORY AND ENFORCEMENT POWERS OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, AS WELL AS A PRIVATE RIGHT OF ACTION BY ANY AGGRIEVED PERSON.

Proxy Advisory Transparency Act

Brandon NewtonRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 44-2-20, 44-2-40, 44-2-60, 44-2-130, AND 44-2-150, ALL RELATING TO THE STATE UNDERGROUND PETROLEUM ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE BANK ACT, SO AS TO CHANGE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS, TO INCREASE THE FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR REHABILITATION OF CONTAMINATED SITES, TO REVISE AN ANNUAL RENEWAL FEE SCHEDULE, TO CHANGE THE COMPOSITION OF THE SUPERB ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

State Underground Petroleum Environmental Response Bank Act

William M. "Bill" HixonRepublican