Bills & Legislation

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-115 SO AS TO PROHIBIT AN INDIVIDUAL'S CREDIT SCORE FROM BEING THE BASIS OF ANY PERSONNEL ACTION, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.

Credit Score for Employment Criteria

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 19 TO TITLE 37 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE REPORTING OF MEDICAL DEBT INFORMATION AND CERTAIN OTHER INFORMATION THAT IS NOT RELEVANT TO THE CREDIT OR PAYMENT HISTORY OF A CONSUMER, TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, TO PROVIDE MEANS FOR INVESTIGATING VIOLATIONS, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

Consumer credit reports

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-75 SO AS TO PROVIDE SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES MAY NOT DELEGATE THEIR AUTHORITY OR APPOINT PROXIES TO VOTE OR OTHERWISE ACT ON THEIR BEHALF, TO PROVIDE ANY ACTIONS TAKEN BY SUCH DELEGATIONS OR PROXIES ARE NULL AND VOID AB INITIO, AND TO PROVIDE TRUSTEES WHO DELEGATE THEIR AUTHORITY OR APPOINT PROXIES TO VOTE OR OTHERWISE ACT FOR THEM ARE SUBJECT TO REMOVAL BY THE GOVERNOR.

School board proxy vote ban

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO CREATE THE "COASTAL STRUCTURAL STABILITY STUDY COMMITTEE" TO EXAMINE CURRENT MEASURES FOR INSPECTING COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS THAT ARE SIX FLOORS OR MORE IN HEIGHT CONSTRUCTED ALONG THE SOUTH CAROLINA COAST AND ON THE CHARLESTON PENINSULA TO EVALUATE THEIR STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS, TO REQUIRE THE STUDY COMMITTEE TO DEVELOP RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPROVING SUCH MEASURES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE STUDY COMMITTEE, TO REQUIRE THE STUDY COMMITTEE TO PREPARE A REPORT WITH FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISSOLUTION OF THE STUDY COMMITTEE.

Coastal Structural Stability Study Committee

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO CREATE THE "WEAPONS DETECTORS IN SCHOOLS STUDY COMMITTEE" TO EVALUATE WHETHER IT IS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST TO REQUIRE THE INSTALLATION AND USE OF WEAPONS DETECTORS AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN THIS STATE AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP AND DUTIES OF THE STUDY COMMITTEE.

Weapons Detectors in Schools Study Committee

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-40-435 SO AS TO IMPOSE UPON LANDLORDS A DUTY TO PROVIDE CERTAIN SECURITY TO PROTECT TENANTS FROM CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES OF THIRD PARTIES, TO PROVIDE LANDLORDS WHO ARE NEGLIGENT IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THIS DUTY MAY BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES PROXIMATELY CAUSED TO THE TENANT BY SUCH CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES, TO IMPOSE RELATED DUTIES CONCERNING SECURITY MEASURES THAT MUST BE PROVIDED, AND TO PROVIDE A NECESSARY DEFINITION.

Landlord liability

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "HEALTHY RENTAL HOUSING ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 27-40-635 SO AS TO PROVIDE REMEDIES FOR TENANTS OF RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROPERTIES WITH MOLD THAT MATERIALLY AFFECTS THE HEALTH OR SAFETY OF THE TENANT OR AUTHORIZED OCCUPANT OF THE RENTAL PROPERTY; BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT, SO AS TO DEFINE ADDITIONAL NECESSARY TERMINOLOGY; BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-420, RELATING TO CERTAIN WRITTEN DISCLOSURES THAT LANDLORDS MUST MAKE TO RESIDENTIAL TENANTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE WRITTEN DISCLOSURE OF VISIBLE EVIDENCE OF MOLD IN AREAS READILY ACCESSIBLE WITHIN THE INTERIOR OF THE DWELLING UNIT, AND TO PROVIDE OPTIONS FOR A TENANT TO WHOM THE LANDLORD DISCLOSES THE PRESENCE OF SUCH MOLD; BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-440, RELATING TO LANDLORD OBLIGATIONS TO MAINTAIN RENTAL UNITS AND PREMISES, SO AS TO PROVIDE LANDLORDS SHALL MAINTAIN THE RENTAL UNITS AND PREMISES IN A CONDITION APPROPRIATE TO PREVENT THE ACCUMULATION OF MOISTURE AND THE GROWTH OF MOLD, AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN NOTICE REQUIREMENTS WHEN SUCH MOISTURE OR MOLD IS FOUND; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-510, RELATING TO THE OBLIGATIONS OF TENANTS WITH RESPECT TO RENTAL UNITS AND PREMISES, SO AS TO PROVIDE TENANTS SHALL USE REASONABLE EFFORTS TO MAINTAIN THE PREMISES IN A CONDITION APPROPRIATE TO PREVENT THE ACCUMULATION OF MOISTURE AND THE GROWTH OF MOLD, AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN NOTICE REQUIREMENTS WHEN SUCH MOISTURE OR MOLD IS FOUND.

Residential rental property

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-35, RELATING TO PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF CEMETERIES, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE GOVERNING BODY OF A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY TO ADOPT BY ORDINANCE THE REQUIREMENT THAT CEMETERY OWNERS AND OPERATORS SHALL MAINTAIN, PRESERVE, AND PROTECT THE CEMETERY, AND TO PROVIDE ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURES.

Cemetery preservation and protection

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-250 SO AS TO REQUIRE ONE UNIT OF INSTRUCTION IN ADVANCED MANUFACTURING BE OFFERED IN MIDDLE SCHOOLS AND HIGH SCHOOLS; BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-260 SO AS TO REQUIRE ONE UNIT OF INSTRUCTION IN HARBOR PILOTAGE BE OFFERED IN MIDDLE SCHOOLS AND HIGH SCHOOLS; AND TO PROVIDE THE INSTRUCTION PROVIDED IN THIS ACT MUST BE OFFERED BEGINNING WITH THE 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR.

Advanced manufacturing and pilotage instruction

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-1050, RELATING TO JURY VOIR DIRE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ATTORNEY-CONDUCTED JURY VOIR DIRE BY ORAL AND DIRECT QUESTIONING; BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-1060, RELATING TO THE DRAWING OF JURY PANELS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE NUMBER OF JURORS TO BE DRAWN IS WITHIN THE DISCRETION OF THE TRIAL JUDGE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-1080, RELATING TO THE DRAWING OF SECOND JURY PANELS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT PANELS MUST BE MADE UP OF TWENTY JURORS.

Voir Dire

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-125 SO AS TO PROVIDE A BASE STATE MINIMUM WAGE AND A SCHEDULE TO GRADUALLY IMPLEMENT AN ADJUSTED MINIMUM WAGE TO TEN DOLLARS AND TEN CENTS PER HOUR OVER A THREE-YEAR PERIOD, TO PROVIDE A METHOD FOR CALCULATING FUTURE MANDATORY ADJUSTMENTS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE NOTIFICATION OF THESE ADJUSTMENTS TO EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR AN EMPLOYER TO FAIL TO PAY THE STATE MINIMUM WAGE OR TO RETALIATE AGAINST AN EMPLOYEE FOR CERTAIN ACTIONS REGARDING ENFORCEMENT OF THE STATE MINIMUM WAGE LAW, TO PROVIDE REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS, TO PROVIDE A FIVE-YEAR STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT ACTIONS BROUGHT PURSUANT TO THIS ACT MAY BE BROUGHT AS A CLASS ACTION UNDER STATE LAW.

Minimum wage

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-39-70 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT LANDLORDS MAY NOT REQUIRE POTENTIAL TENANTS TO PROVIDE THEIR CREDIT SCORE ON A RENTAL APPLICATION OR AS A CONDITION TO A RENTAL AGREEMENT.

Rental agreements

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-35 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO JOB APPLICATION MAY INCLUDE QUESTIONS RELATED TO CONVICTIONS OF A CRIME, UNLESS THE CRIME FOR WHICH THE APPLICANT WAS CONVICTED DIRECTLY RELATES TO THE POSITION OF EMPLOYMENT SOUGHT OR THE OCCUPATION FOR WHICH THE LICENSE IS SOUGHT, TO PROVIDE A RELATED POLICY STATEMENT, AND TO PROVIDE NECESSARY DEFINITIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS, IN ORDER TO GIVE A BETTER CHANCE FOR APPLICANTS TO BE CONSIDERED FOR EMPLOYMENT PRIOR TO THE STAGE IN THE APPLICATION PROCESS WHEN BACKGROUND CHECKS ARE CONDUCTED.

Criminal convictions on employment applications

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 1, TITLE 59, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE "SOUTH CAROLINA SERVICE YEAR PROGRAM" IN THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE PURPOSES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE PROGRAM, TO ESTABLISH THE OFFICE OF SERVICE AND CIVIC INNOVATION IN THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR AND TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE OFFICE, TO ESTABLISH THE "SOUTH CAROLINA SERVICE YEAR PROGRAM FUND" AND TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSES OF THE FUND, TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN PRIVACY AND RELATED MEASURES.

South Carolina Service Year Act

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 34-3-105 SO AS TO LIMIT FEES THAT CERTAIN BANKS OR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN THIS STATE MAY CHARGE FOR CASH TRANSFERS, DEPOSITS, OR WITHDRAWALS CONDUCTED AT AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINES.

ATM fee limits

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 31-3-60 SO AS TO REQUIRE PUBLIC HOUSING AUTHORITIES AND AGENCIES TO PROVIDE CERTAIN HOUSING TO DISPLACED RESIDENTS.

Renter assistance

Wendell G. GilliardDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 41-8-125 SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN LAW ENFORCEMENT ENTITIES AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND WORKFORCE ARE ENTITLED TO RECEIVE COPIES OF E-VERIFY DOCUMENTATION MAINTAINED BY EMPLOYERS, TO PROVIDE EMPLOYERS SHALL PROVIDE SUCH COPIES UPON REQUEST, AND TO PROVIDE SUCH REQUESTING PARTIES SHALL RELY ON THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO VERIFY THE EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY OF AN EMPLOYEE AND MAY NOT INDEPENDENTLY MAKE A FINAL DETERMINATION REGARDING SUCH A VERIFICATION.

E-Verify documentation

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "REJECTING RACISM IN POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 TO CHAPTER 101, TITLE 59, SO AS TO ENTITLE THE ARTICLE "REJECTING RACISM IN POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION"; TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSE OF THE ACT; TO PROVIDE NECESSARY DEFINITIONS; AND TO ENACT PROVISIONS TO PREVENT DISCRIMINATION, TO PROMOTE THE INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS AND FACULTY OF PUBLIC K-12 AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THIS STATE, AND TO PROTECT THE FREE EXCHANGE OF IDEAS ACCORDING TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION AND THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE.

Rejecting Racism in Postsecondary Education Act

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-205 SO AS TO PROVIDE PUBLIC SCHOOLS SHALL ESTABLISH DISCIPLINARY CLASSROOMS EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE ASSIGNMENT OF STUDENTS SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINE NOT MERITING SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION, TO PROVIDE ASSIGNMENT DECISIONS ARE DISCRETIONARY FOR TEACHERS IN CONSULTATION WITH PRINCIPALS AND SCHOOL COUNSELORS OR OTHER MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS, TO PROVIDE STAFFING AND FUNCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR DISCIPLINARY CLASSROOMS, TO REQUIRE THE DEVELOPMENT OF INDIVIDUAL PROGRESS PLANS FOR REASSIGNING DISCIPLINARY CLASSROOM STUDENTS TO THEIR CLASSROOMS, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED RIGHTS FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS OF STUDENTS ASSIGNED TO DISCIPLINARY CLASSROOMS.

Designated discliplinary classrooms

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PLACE A MORATORIUM ON THE ENFORCEMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW ORDINANCES FOR COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES UNTIL JULY 1, 2028.

Residential architectural review enforcement suspension

William M. "Bill" ChumleyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-425, RELATING TO INSTRUCTIONAL DAYS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE INSTRUCTIONAL DAYS MAY NOT BEGIN BEFORE 8:30 IN THE MORNING; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-10, RELATING TO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY STANDARDS FOR PUBLIC ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOLS, SO AS TO REVISE THE STANDARDS TO REQUIRE AN OVERALL INCREASE IN MANDATORY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY MINUTES, TO REQUIRE DAILY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, TO REQUIRE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TO INCLUDE INSTRUCTIONAL PLAY AND UNSTRUCTURED PLAY IN ADDITION TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-30, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITY DIRECTORS, SO AS TO REQUIRE DESIGNATIONS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DIRECTORS IN MIDDLE SCHOOLS AND TO REVISE DUTIES OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DIRECTORS TO INCLUDE DEVELOPMENT OF INSTRUCTIONAL PLAY AND UNSTRUCTURED PLAY FOR ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS.

Physical activity in schools

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-4800, RELATING TO SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS LICENSE PLATES, DISTRIBUTION OF FEES, AND PREPAID APPLICATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THESE LICENSE PLATES SHALL NOT CONTAIN A CONFEDERATE FLAG, AND TO PROVIDE UPON REVALIDATION OF THESE SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES, SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES THAT DO NOT CONTAIN A CONFEDERATE FLAG MUST BE ISSUED TO REPLACE SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES THAT CONTAIN CONFEDERATE FLAGS.

Special license plate, Sons of Confederate veterans

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 TO CHAPTER 13, TITLE 24 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS MAY CONDITIONALLY RELEASE INMATES WHO ARE SERVING SENTENCES FOR THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION, MANUFACTURE, SALE, OR DISTRIBUTION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, AND OFFER THE INMATES THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENROLL IN CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY TREATMENT PROGRAMS.

Conditional release

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-4530, RELATING TO ILLUMINATION OF REAR REGISTRATION PLATES, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE, AND TO PROVIDE VEHICLES MAY NOT BE STOPPED FOR HAVING INOPERABLE TAIL LAMPS OR SEPARATE LAMPS IN THE ABSENCE OF A VIOLATION OF ANOTHER LAW.

Registration plate, illumination

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 2 TO TITLE 23 SO AS TO CREATE THE "SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-240, RELATING TO THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN STATE OFFICERS BY THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-7-920, RELATING TO THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION ON PROSECUTION COORDINATION, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-10, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENTS OF STATE GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-90, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE THE TERM "DIVISION OF PUBLIC SAFETY" FOR THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 2-13-240, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS TO VARIOUS ENTITIES, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY"; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 5-3-90, 5-7-110, 9-11-180, 10-11-80, 11-35-710, 12-28-1910, 12-28-2325, 13-7-70, 13-7-160, 14-1-206, 14-1-207, 14-1-208, 14-1-212, 17-22-350, 23-1-230, AND 23-1-240, RELATING TO THE SCOPE OF THE PROVISIONS THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STRUCTURE, ORGANIZATION, POWERS, AND DUTIES OF MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS, THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY'S CONTRIBUTIONS INTO THE STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM ON BEHALF OF ACTIVE HIGHWAY PATROL MEMBER EMPLOYEES, PARKING ON CERTAIN STATE PARKING LOTS, STATE PROCUREMENT CODE EXEMPTIONS, THE INSPECTION OF FUEL AND SHIPPING PAPERS, LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE PROVIDED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, PAYING TAXES AND THE DELEGATION OF COLLECTION OF TAXES, RULES AND REGULATIONS REGARDING THE TRANSPORTATION OF MATERIALS, REGULATIONS RELATING TO THE TRANSPORTATION OF NUCLEAR MATERIALS, COURT ASSESSMENTS AND SURCHARGES, TRAFFIC EDUCATION PROGRAM FEES, THE USE OF BODY-WORN CAMERAS, AND THE FIRST RESPONDERS ADVISORY COMMITTEE, ALL SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY," OR "DIVISION OF PUBLIC SAFETY"; BY AMENDING CHAPTER 6, TITLE 23, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, SO AS TO REESTABLISH IT AS A DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 23-23-30, 23-25-20, 36-9-410, 38-55-530, 38-55-570, 38-77-1120, 39-9-230, 43-5-1250, 44-4-130, 54-17-60, 56-1-190, 56-1-286, 56-1-460, 56-1-1320, 56-1-1760, 56-1-2220, 56-1-2230, 56-3-662, 56-3-663, 56-3-840, 56-3-8710, 56-5-330, 56-5-380, 56-5-765, 56-5-1270, 56-5-1300, 56-5-1320, 56-5-1330, 56-5-1340, 56-5-1350, 56-5-1520, 56-5-1535, 56-5-2930, 56-5-2933, 56-5-2945, 56-5-2951, 56-5-2953, 56-5-3660, 56-5-3670, 56-5-3680, 56-5-3690, 56-5-3890, 56-5-3900, 56-5-4010, 56-5-4030, 56-5-4035, 56-5-4070, 56-5-4075, 56-5-4140, 56-5-4160, 56-5-4170, 56-5-4240, 56-5-4630, 56-5-4840, 56-5-4880, 56-5-4970, 56-5-5015, 56-5-5080, 56-5-5120, 56-5-5140, 56-5-5810, 56-5-5870, 56-5-5880, 56-5-6170, 56-5-6525, 56-5-6560, 56-5-6565, 56-7-10, 56-7-12, 56-7-30, 56-9-350, 56-10-45, 56-10-552, 56-11-20, 56-11-40, 56-19-420, 56-35-50, 57-3-180, 58-23-50, 58-23-1120, 59-67-20, 59-67-260, 59-67-570, 61-6-2900, 61-6-4250, AND 61-6-4290, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL, THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS HALL OF FAME COMMITTEE, RESERVE DETENTION OFFICERS, THE UNLAWFUL SALE OR DISPOSAL OF PERSONAL PROPERTY SUBJECT TO A SECURITY INTEREST, INSURANCE FRAUD AND REPORTING IMMUNITY, MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT AND THE MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE FRAUD-REPORTING IMMUNITY ACT, THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE METRIC SYSTEM, THE STATEWIDE NETWORK OF MASS TRANSIT SYSTEMS, THE EMERGENCY HEALTH POWERS ACT, ACTIVITIES OF THE MARITIME SECURITY COMMISSION AND THE NAVAL MILITIA, MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVERS' LICENSES, CARRYING AND DISPLAY OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE, THE COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE DRUG TESTING ACT, THE REGISTRATION AND LICENSING OF MOTOR VEHICLES, NASCAR SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES, THE DEFINITION OF CERTAIN TERMS, THE INVESTIGATION OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, CORONER REPORTS, ACCIDENT REPORTS, DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, THE OPERATION OF MOTORCYCLES ALONG THE STATE'S HIGHWAYS, UNLAWFUL USE OF WIRELESS DEVICES WHILE OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES, COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLES AND THEIR DRIVERS, MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTIONS, SAFETY BELT EDUCATION PROGRAMS, THE REGULATION OF TRAFFIC TRAVELING ALONG THE STATE'S HIGHWAYS, THE PRINTING, ORDERING AND ISSUANCE OF TRAFFIC TICKETS, VERIFICATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE, THE CONFISCATION OF REGISTRATION CERTIFICATES AND LICENSE PLATES, THE UNINSURED ENFORCEMENT FUND, THE ROAD TAX ON MOTOR CARRIERS, MOTOR VEHICLE CERTIFICATES OF TITLE, DIESEL IDLING RESTRICTIONS, CERTAIN PERMITS ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, MOTOR VEHICLE CARRIERS, THE TRANSPORTATION OF SCHOOL CHILDREN, AND THE TRANSPORTATION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, ALL SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY," OR "DIVISION OF PUBLIC SAFETY"; AND BY AMENDING SECTIONS 23-3-10, 23-3-680, AND 23-3-690, ALL RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ITS DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS ARE TRANSFERRED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY.

SC Dept. of Law Enforcement and Public Safety; created

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-77-300, RELATING TO THE ALLOWANCE OF ATTORNEY'S FEES IN STATE-INITIATED ACTIONS, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE EXCEPTION FOR DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES' CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT ACTIONS.

Attorney Fees, DSS Actions

William H. BaileyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 24-21-50, RELATING TO THE CONDUCT OF PAROLE, PARDON, AND CLEMENCY HEARINGS, SO AS TO PROVIDE POTENTIAL PAROLEES BEING CONSIDERED FOR PAROLE OR THEIR COUNSEL HAVE A RIGHT TO CONFRONT WITNESSES THAT APPEAR BEFORE THE BOARD DURING THEIR HEARINGS, AND ALL TESTIMONY PRESENTED AT PAROLE HEARINGS MUST BE TAKEN UNDER OATH.

Parole, pardon, and clemency hearings

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "LIVE AND LET LIVE ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 TO CHAPTER 32, TITLE 1 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE STATE GOVERNMENT FROM DISCRIMINATING AGAINST CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS BASED ON THEIR BELIEFS REGARDING MARRIAGE AND A PERSON'S SEX; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Live and Let Live Act

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-17-780 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE OPERATION OF VEHICLES ON THE BEACHES OF THIS STATE, WITH EXCEPTIONS, AND TO CREATE CRIMINAL PENALTIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 48-39-370 SO AS TO RESTRICT THE USE OF VEHICLES BY AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENTAL EMPLOYEES DURING CERTAIN MONTHS OF THE YEAR.

Beach Vehicle Operation Restriction Act

William H. BaileyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-55 SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN HOSPITALS TO COLLECT DATA ON THE IMMIGRATION STATUS OF PATIENTS, TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS TO REPORT SUCH INFORMATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO REPORT ANNUALLY TO THE GOVERNOR AND GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON THE DATA, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Hospitals

Thomas BeachRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 20-3-15 SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE CORROBORATION OF EVIDENCE IN CERTAIN DIVORCE ACTIONS THROUGH AFFIDAVITS.

Divorce

Neal A. CollinsRepublican

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO CREATE A STUDY COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE MATERNAL MORTALITY RATES AMONG NON-HISPANIC BLACK WOMEN IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND HOW THE RATES VARY FROM RATES EXPERIENCED BY OTHER WOMEN AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; TO PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY COMMITTEE'S MEMBERSHIP; AND TO REQUIRE THE STUDY COMMITTEE TO PREPARE A REPORT AFTER WHICH THE STUDY COMMITTEE IS DISSOLVED.

Maternal Mortality Study Committee

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PRESSLEY CAVIN STUTTS JR.

Prescriptions

James Mikell "Mike" BurnsRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 63-7-2410 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO COLLECT INFORMATION ABOUT OUTCOMES OF YOUTH WHO HAVE AGED OUT OF FOSTER CARE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Foster Care

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 44-53-370, 44-53-375, AND 44-53-450, ALL RELATING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE OFFENSES AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO DECRIMINALIZE POSSESSION OF TWENTY-EIGHT GRAMS OR ONE OUNCE OR LESS OF MARIJUANA OR TEN GRAMS OR LESS OF HASHISH AND AUTHORIZE LAW ENFORCEMENT TO ISSUE A CIVIL CITATION FOR POSSESSION OF THAT SAME QUANTITY OF MARIJUANA OR HASHISH; TO DECREASE PENALTIES FOR FIRST OFFENSE POSSESSION OF LESS THAN ONE GRAM OF METHAMPHETAMINE OR COCAINE BASE AND REQUIRE COMPLETION OF A DRUG TREATMENT OR REHABILITATION PROGRAM AS PART OF THE SENTENCE; AND TO REQUIRE THE COURT TO PLACE PERSONS ON PROBATION WHO ARE GUILTY OF A FIRST OFFENSE POSSESSION OF CERTAIN CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.

Marijuana

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 24-13-185 SO AS TO PROVIDE INMATES SHALL NOT BE DENIED VISITATION RIGHTS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES AND TO PROVIDE ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES MAY BE USED TO ALLOW INMATES TO COMMUNICATE WITH VISITORS.

Prisoners

J. Todd RutherfordDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-100 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FERTILIZED HUMAN EGGS OR HUMAN EMBRYOS THAT EXIST IN ANY FORM OUTSIDE OF THE UTERUS OF A HUMAN BODY ARE NOT CONSIDERED AN UNBORN CHILD OR OTHER TERM CONNOTATING A HUMAN BEING FOR ANY PURPOSE UNDER STATE LAW.

Human Embryos

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-820, RELATING TO GUARDIAN AD LITEM QUALIFICATIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN PRIVATE CUSTODY OR VISITATION ACTIONS IN THE FAMILY COURT TO BE ATTORNEYS.

Guardians ad Litem

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-6-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026, AN ADULT SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF AGE OR YOUNGER WHOSE INCOME IS AT OR BELOW ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-THREE PERCENT OF THE FEDERAL POVERTY LEVEL, WITH A FIVE PERCENT INCOME DISREGARD, IS ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICAID AS PROVIDED FOR IN THE PATIENT PROTECTION AND AFFORABLE CARE ACT, AND AMENDMENTS TO THAT ACT.

Medicaid Expansion

Kambrell H. GarvinDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 20-3-625 SO AS TO REQUIRE CLEAR AND CONVINCING EVIDENCE THAT THE OWNER OF NONMARITAL PROPERTY INTENDED FOR THE PROPERTY TO TRANSMUTE INTO MARITAL PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF APPORTIONING MARITAL PROPERTY IN A DIVORCE ACTION.

Divorce

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY REPEALING SECTION 63-17-390 RELATING TO CHILD SUPPORT ORDER WARRANTS.

Child Support

Gil GatchRepublican

H 3102

John Richard C. KingDemocrat

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-34-20, RELATING TO THE OPERATION OF TATTOO FACILITIES, SO AS TO ELIMINATE CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-34-100, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL TATTOOING, SO AS TO ELIMINATE CERTAIN PROHIBITIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-34-110, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION OF LICENSING TATTOO FACILITIES WITHIN A CERTAIN PROXIMITY TO CHURCHES, SCHOOLS, OR PLAYGROUNDS, SO AS TO ALLOW ISSUANCE OF A LICENSE WITH THE EXPRESS APPROVAL OF ANY SUCH CHURCH, SCHOOL, OR PLAYGROUND.

Tattoo Facilities

Brandon GuffeyRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-3-130, RELATING TO ALIMONY, SO AS TO ESTABLISH PARAMETERS AS TO WHAT CONSTITUTES REASONABLY ANTICIPATED EARNINGS FOR MARRIAGES OF A CERTAIN DURATION.

Alimony

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-830, RELATING TO RESPONSIBILITIES OF GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN PRIVATE CUSTODY AND VISITATION ACTIONS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT GUARDIANS AD LITEM FROM MAKING RECOMMENDATIONS IN THEIR REPORT TO THE COURT.

Guardians ad Litem

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 TO CHAPTER 22, TITLE 17 SO AS TO CREATE A PILOT "BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONDITIONAL DISCHARGE PROGRAM" TO OPERATE IN CERTAIN COUNTIES AS DETERMINED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT IN COORDINATION WITH CIRCUIT SOLICITORS AND DEFENSE ATTORNEYS TO OFFER AN ALTERNATIVE TO INCARCERATION FOR CERTAIN OFFENDERS WITH BEHAVIORAL HEALTH DISORDERS; TO ESTABLISH CRITERIA FOR THE PILOT PROGRAM; TO REQUIRE CERTAIN EXECUTIVE BRANCH DEPARTMENTS TO FACILITATE SERVICES OF THE PILOT PROGRAM, INCLUDING TREATMENT AND VOCATIONAL SERVICES; TO REQUIRE DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING TO SOUTH CAROLINA COURT ADMINISTRATION, THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND THE GOVERNOR; TO CREATE AN ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR ASSISTING WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PILOT PROGRAM, INCLUDING MEMBERSHIP AND DUTIES; TO CREATE A TRUST FUND FOR PURPOSES OF THE PILOT PROGRAM; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Behavioral Health Conditional Dismissal Program

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-130-65 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE CIVIL AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR FAILING TO SEEK TREATMENT FOR OPIOID USE DISORDERS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Fentanyl

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-60, RELATING TO ORDERS OF PROTECTION, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE COURT TO AWARD CERTAIN RELIEF AFTER HOLDING A HEARING.

Orders of Protection

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-3-820 AND 63-3-850, RELATING IN PART TO THE APPOINTMENT AND COMPENSATION OF AN ATTORNEY FOR A GUARDIAN AD LITEM, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE ATTORNEY'S FEE BE AUTHORIZED BY THE COURT.

Guardians ad Litem

Gil GatchRepublican

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-63-145 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO ISSUE UPON RECEIPT OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTATION A CERTIFICATE OF FOREIGN BIRTH FOR A CHILD WITH UNITED STATES CITIZENSHIP WHO IS BORN IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY TO A PARENT WHO IS A RESIDENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-63-140, RELATING TO SUPPLEMENTARY OR AMENDED BIRTH CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CORRECTION.

Certificate of Foreign Birth

Thomas E. "Tommy" PopeRepublican