NO. 43

Members of the House, 49th Annual Citadel Alumni Association Legislative Barbecue, the Goodman Building, State Fairgrounds, by the Governmental Affairs Committee of The Citadel Alumni Association, on behalf of the Citadel alumni and friends of The Citadel.

Members of the House and staff, breakfast, Room 112, Blatt Bldg., by the Office of the State Treasurer.

Members of the House and staff, luncheon, State House Grounds, by the South Carolina Hospital Association.

Members of the House, reception, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, by the Affordable Housing Coalition of South Carolina.

Members of the House, reception, the Offices of Parker Poe, 11th Floor, 1221 Main Street, Suite 1100, by the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation.

Members of the House and staff, breakfast, Room 112, Blatt Bldg., by the Palmetto Trail.

TO WELCOME THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT, THE HONORABLE JOHN W. KITTREDGE, AND TO INVITE HIM TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION IN THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH

CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AT 12:00 NOON, ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026.

H. 4679 (Word version)--Reps. C. Mitchell, Cox, M. M. Smith, Wooten, Chapman, W. Newton, Herbkersman, Wickensimer, Guest and McCravy: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA DRONE REGULATION AND PUBLIC SAFETY ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 55-1-110 SO AS TO ESTABLISH GUIDELINES FOR DRONE OPERATIONS, AND PENALTIES FOR UNLAWFUL DRONE USE.
(Prefiled--Tuesday, December 16, 2025)
(Judiciary Com.--January 13, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 4706 (Word version)--Reps. Rutherford, Neese, Chumley and Hartnett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 15-1-350 SO AS TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN RACING FACILITIES, UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, FROM BEING SUBJECT TO NUISANCE AND TAKING CAUSES OF ACTION FROM A SURROUNDING LANDOWNER.
(Prefiled--Tuesday, December 16, 2025)
(Judiciary Com.--January 13, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 4248 (Word version)--Reps. Herbkersman, Bradley, Erickson, Hixon, Pope, Hewitt, Cobb-Hunter, Forrest and M. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 39-25-220 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT ALL SHRIMP AND SHRIMP PRODUCTS SOLD IN THIS STATE HAVE A LABEL NOTING THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN OF THE SHRIMP.
(Agri., Natl. Res. and Environ. Affrs. Com.--March 27, 2025)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 5069 (Word version)--Reps. T. Moore, Bradley, Wooten, Brittain, Bernstein, Holman, Ford, Wetmore, Stavrinakis, B. Newton, Rivers, Anderson, Kirby, McDaniel, Caskey, Erickson, Reese, Chapman, Govan, Yow, Bustos, Martin, Sessions, Gatch, M. M. Smith, D. Mitchell, Guest, Neese, Pedalino, Bauer, W. Newton, Gilreath, Gilliam, Luck, Pope, Ligon, Cox, J. L. Johnson, Guffey, Bowers, Jordan, Collins, Duncan, Teeple, Lawson, Sanders, Montgomery, Ballentine, Brewer, Gagnon, Haddon, Hartnett, Hartz, Herbkersman, Hiott, Hixon, Jones, Lowe, Robbins, Cromer and Oremus: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 61 TO TITLE 48 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE "SOUTH CAROLINA PROTECTED LANDS AND CONSERVATION COORDINATION ACT"; TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; TO RECOGNIZE CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES AS AN IMPORTANT STATE INTEREST; TO ESTABLISH A STATEWIDE PROTECTED LAND BENCHMARK; AND TO PROVIDE FOR COORDINATION OF LAND PROTECTION PROJECTS AND ANNUAL REPORTING TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.
(Ways and Means Com.--January 29, 2026)
(Recalled and referred to Agri., Natl. Res. and Environ. Affrs. Com.--March 24, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 5111 (Word version)--Reps. Forrest, Lastinger and Hartz: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 5-31-60 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PROPERTY OWNERS TO DRILL, OPERATE, AND MAINTAIN PRIVATE WATER WELLS ON AGRICULTURAL OR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY; TO PROHIBIT COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES FROM MANDATING CONNECTION TO MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEMS ABSENT A DOCUMENTED PUBLIC HEALTH THREAT; TO ESTABLISH PRIMA FACIE EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE; TO PREEMPT CONFLICTING LOCAL ORDINANCES; AND TO PROVIDE FOR ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES.
(Agri., Natl. Res. and Environ. Affrs. Com.--February 05, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 5217 (Word version)--Reps. Hixon, Haddon and Forrest: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-9-650, RELATING TO DEER HUNTING, SO AS

TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF ANTERLESS DEER TAGS AND DECREASE THE NUMBER OF ANTLERED DEER TAGS.
(Agri., Natl. Res. and Environ. Affrs. Com.--February 19, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 5473 (Word version)--Rep. Lowe: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 15 TO CHAPTER 19, TITLE 50 SO AS TO PROHIBIT FISHING ON THE J. FOSTER JEFFORDS CAUSEWAY IN FLORENCE COUNTY.
(Agri., Natl. Res. and Environ. Affrs. Com.--March 31, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

S. 337 (Word version)--Senator Reichenbach: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-13-640, RELATING TO THE POSSESSION OF BLUE CATFISH, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A DAILY LIMIT OF SEVENTY-FIVE BLUE CATFISH IN STATE WATERWAYS OTHER THAN IN LAKE MARION, LAKE MOULTRIE, AND THE UPPER REACH OF THE SANTEE RIVER.
(Agri., Natl. Res. and Environ. Affrs. Com.--March 20, 2025)
(Favorable--February 18, 2026)
(Recommitted--February 24, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

S. 463 (Word version)--Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-21-125, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON SWIMMING NEAR PUBLIC LANDINGS ON LAKES OR RESERVOIRS OWNED OR MAINTAINED BY AN INVESTOR-OWNED UTILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR RESTRICTIONS ON SWIMMING NEAR PUBLIC BOATING LANDINGS ON LAKES OR RESERVOIRS OWNED OR MAINTAINED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY.
(Agri., Natl. Res. and Environ. Affrs. Com.--April 23, 2025)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

S. 32 (Word version)--Senators Grooms, Leber, Rice, Reichenbach, Climer, Garrett, Jackson and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "PREGNANCY RESOURCE ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3383 SO AS

TO PROVIDE FOR A TAX CREDIT FOR VOLUNTARY CASH CONTRIBUTIONS MADE TO A PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER OR CRISIS PREGNANCY CENTER AND TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR THE CREDIT.
(Ways and Means Com.--April 23, 2025)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 5057 (Word version)--Reps. Ballentine, Cobb-Hunter and Taylor: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-150-420 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT LOTTERY RETAILERS MAY USE CERTAIN LOTTERY TICKET VENDING MACHINES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-21-2710, RELATING TO TYPES OF MACHINES AND DEVICES PROHIBITED BY LAW, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXCEPTION.
(Judiciary Com.--January 29, 2026)
(Recalled and referred to Ways and Means Com.--March 24, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 4611 (Word version)--Reps. T. Moore, Collins, C. Mitchell, B. Newton, Pope, Clyburn, Spann-Wilder, Martin, Teeple, Schuessler, Hewitt, Willis, M. M. Smith, Erickson and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 8-11-150 AND 8-11-151, BOTH RELATING TO PAID PARENTAL LEAVE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PAID PARENTAL LEAVE APPLIES TO STILLBIRTHS.
(Prefiled--Tuesday, December 16, 2025)
(Ways and Means Com.--January 13, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 5018 (Word version)--Rep. G. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-1-1210, RELATING TO ANNUAL SALARIES OF CERTAIN STATE OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SALARIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MUST BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-160, RELATING TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION AND SALARY INCREASES FOR AGENCY HEADS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SALARIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MUST BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO AUTHORIZE A STUDY EVERY FOUR YEARS TO RECOMMEND SALARY RANGES FOR THE GOVERNOR AND LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-165, RELATING TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION AND ITS DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
(Ways and Means Com.--January 27, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 5173 (Word version)--Reps. Hewitt, Bannister and G. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-7-130, RELATING TO HEALTHCARE FACILITY DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE DEFINITION OF HOSPITAL.
(Ways and Means Com.--February 11, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

S. 831 (Word version)--Senators Grooms, Jackson, Kimbrell, Sutton and Bennett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 57-1-25 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY AND DEFINE ITS MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-1-360, RELATING TO THE CHIEF INTERNAL AUDITOR, SO AS TO CLARIFY QUALIFICATIONS AND SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-1-370, RELATING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LONG-RANGE STATEWIDE TRANSPORTATION PLAN, SO AS TO MANDATE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DEVELOPING THE PLAN; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-20, RELATING TO RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARIES; BY ADDING SECTION 57-3-205 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO ENTER INTO PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-615, RELATING TO HIGHWAY TOLLS AND

USAGE, SO AS TO ALLOW THE IMPOSITION OF TOLLS IN CERTAIN SITUATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 57-3-790 SO AS TO WAIVE THE STATE'S IMMUNITY; BY ADDING SECTION 57-3-800 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO ENTER INTO RECIPROCAL AGREEMENTS WITH OTHERS TO ENFORCE TOLL VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-820, RELATING TO THE CONSENT OF A MUNICIPALITY TO WORK ON STATE HIGHWAYS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CANCELLATION OF PROJECTS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-830, RELATING TO THE ASSENT OF MUNICIPALITY TO PLANS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT COSTS CAUSED BY AN UNREASONABLE DELAY ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MUNICIPALITY; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-105 SO AS TO IDENTIFY AND TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OF NON-ESSENTIAL ROADS TO THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-1085 SO AS TO IMPOSE FEES ON NEW DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN THE STATE IN ORDER TO MITIGATE CONGESTION CAUSED BY ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1320, RELATING TO TURNPIKE PROJECT DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE NONTAX REVENUES OR OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS AS A SOURCE FOR FUNDING TURNPIKE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1330, RELATING TO GENERAL POWERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO CONTRACT WITH OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS IN DESIGNATING, ESTABLISHING, PLANNING, ABANDONING, FINANCING, IMPROVING, CONSTRUCTING, MAINTAINING, AND REGULATING TURNPIKE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1335, RELATING TO THE FEASIBILITY STUDIES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO COMPLETE A FEASIBILITY STUDY PRIOR TO A BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION QUALIFYING AS TURNPIKE FACILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1340, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL POWERS OF THE DEPARTMENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1350, RELATING TO A REQUEST FOR AN ISSUANCE OF TURNPIKE BONDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-

1360, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY AUTHORITY UPON RECEIPT OF REQUEST, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RESOLUTION APPROVING ANY PROPOSED TURNPIKE BONDS MAY NOT BE ADOPTED UNLESS THE STATE BOARD CONDUCTS A HEARING BEFORE APPROVAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1380, RELATING TO TURNPIKE REVENUE PLEDGED FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT TURNPIKE BONDS ISSUED BY THIS ARTICLE DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN INDEBTEDNESS OF THE STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1390, RELATING TO BOND INTEREST, MATURITY, AND REDEMPTION, SO AS TO UPDATE TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1400, RELATING TO THE SALE OF BONDS AND EXPENSES INCIDENT TO SALE, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1410, RELATING TO THE EXECUTION OF BONDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1420, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION OF BOND PROCEEDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROCEEDS DERIVED FROM THE SALE OF TURNPIKE BONDS MUST BE APPLIED ONLY TO THE PURPOSES AUTHORIZED BY THIS ARTICLE AND PROVIDED IN THE BOND RESOLUTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1430, RELATING TO DENOMINATIONS OF TURNPIKE BONDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TURNPIKE BONDS MUST EACH BE IN THE DENOMINATION OF ONE THOUSAND OR FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS OR SOME MULTIPLE THEREOF OR SUCH LARGER DENOMINATIONS AS MAY BE AUTHORIZED BY THE AUTHORITY IN THE BOND RESOLUTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1440, RELATING TO THE FORM OF BONDS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT TURNPIKE BONDS ISSUED PURSUANT TO THIS ARTICLE MAY BE IN THE FORM OF NEGOTIABLE COUPON BONDS, PAYABLE TO BEARER; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1450, RELATING TO THE RESOLUTION TO ISSUE BONDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT AND THE AUTHORITY MAY RELY ON THE WORK PRODUCT OF THIRD-PARTY PROFESSIONALS TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL, FEASIBILITY, OR PRACTICABILITY STUDIES RELATED TO THE TURNPIKE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION

57-5-1460, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE STATE TREASURER UPON RECEIPT OF THE BOND RESOLUTION, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1480, RELATING TO THE PROVISION THAT IT IS LAWFUL FOR FIDUCIARIES AND SINKING FUND COMMISSIONS TO INVEST IN TURNPIKE BONDS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1490, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO PAY TOLLS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1495, RELATING TO THE COLLECTION OF TOLLS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTRONIC TOLL COLLECTION SYSTEM" AND ADD THAT A CERTIFICATE THAT A TOLL VIOLATION HAS OCCURRED BASED UPON ELECTRONIC MEANS IS PRIMA FACIE EVIDENCE OF THE VIOLATION; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-1710 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO USE PHASED DESIGN-BUILD AS A PROJECT DELIVERY METHOD AND PROSCRIBE THE PROCEDURE FOR ENTERING INTO A PHASED DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACT; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-1720 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO AWARD HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS USING A CONSTRUCTION MANAGER/GENERAL CONTRACTOR PROCEDURE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-11-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO STATE HIGHWAY BONDS, SO AS TO DEFINE "ALTERNATIVE FUEL FEES"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-645, RELATING TO ALTERNATIVE FUEL FEES FOR VEHICLES POWERED BY ELECTRICITY, HYDROGEN, AND FUELS OTHER THAN MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO INCREASE FEES, PROVIDE FOR ADJUSTMENT OF THE FEES, AND TO CREDIT THE FEES TO THE STATE HIGHWAY FUND; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-43-140, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE BANK, SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION AS AN EX OFFICIO MEMBER; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-35-710, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO INCLUDE AN EXEMPTION FOR THE PURCHASE AND MANAGEMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BY THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION; BY

ADDING SECTION 12-28-315 SO AS TO PRESCRIBE A USER FEE ON ELECTRICITY CONSUMED WHEN USING A PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2740, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF A GASOLINE USER FEE AMONG COUNTIES, REQUIREMENTS FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS, AND COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEES AND PROCEDURES FOR USING "C" FUNDS REVENUES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2920, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION OF TOLL ROADS, SO AS TO DEFINE HOW FUNDS DERIVED FROM TOLLS MAY BE USED.
(Ways and Means Com.--March 24, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 5071 (Word version)--Reps. Erickson, Crawford, G. M. Smith, Willis, Kirby, Garvin, Hixon, Montgomery, Martin, Brewer, Teeple, Bradley, Gilliam, Robbins, Hiott, B. Newton, Rankin, Hager, Sessions, Hewitt, Landing, Bowers, Wooten, Whitmire, Guffey, Taylor, Hartz, Oremus, Forrest, Guest, Vaughan, Davis, J. E. Johnson, Bannister, W. Newton, Pope, Jordan, Haddon, Herbkersman, Brittain, M. M. Smith, Ligon, Gagnon, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, Moss, Pedalino, Stavrinakis and Chapman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 57-1-410, RELATING TO THE SECRETARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT THE SECRETARY INSTEAD OF THE COMMISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-10, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENTS OF STATE GOVERNMENT AND THEIR GOVERNING BODIES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES THAT PART OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS A SEVEN-MEMBER COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-105, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNING AUTHORITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION; BY AMENDING

SECTION 11-43-140, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE BANK, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CHAIRMAN OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION AS A DIRECTOR, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION IS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 57-1-10, 57-1-40, 57-1-370, AND 57-1-430, ALL RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, AND ITS DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION AND ITS RESPONSIBILITIES, TO ALLOW THE GOVERNOR TO APPOINT THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION AND REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SUBMIT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AN ITEMIZED PROJECT LIST TO BE FUNDED FOR THE FISCAL YEAR IN WHICH THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WOULD ENACT ITS ANNUAL GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-50, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF HIGHWAY DISTRICTS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE THE TERM "DEPARTMENT" FOR THE TERM "COMMISSION"; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-1-90, RELATING TO MOTORCYCLES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-210, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION CONTRACTING WITH PUBLIC TRANSIT SYSTEMS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-700, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SERVING AS AN AGENT FOR COUNTIES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-50, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF CERTAIN ROADS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-90, RELATING TO BELT LINES AND SPURS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-340, RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF REAL ESTATE, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 57-13-10, 57-13-20, 57-13-40, AND 57-13-50, ALL RELATING TO BRIDGES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-25-120, RELATING TO

DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 57-25-140, 57-25-150, 57-25-170, 57-25-200, AND 57-25-210, ALL RELATING TO SIGNS ALONG THE HIGHWAYS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 57-1-310 AND 57-1-330, BOTH RELATING TO THE COMPOSITION OF THE COMMISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO REMOVE AT-LARGE MEMBERS; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 9, CHAPTER 5, TITLE 57, RELATING TO TURNPIKE PROJECTS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN DESIGNATIONS OF TURNPIKE FACILITIES, TO PROVIDE THAT TURNPIKE BONDS ARE SPECIAL LIMITED OBLIGATIONS OF THE STATE AS SPECIFIED IN THE BOND RESOLUTION, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 57-1-25 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY AND TO SET FORTH ITS DUTIES AND MEMBERSHIP; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-105 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN NONESSENTIAL ROADS, TO ESTABLISH THE SYSTEM REALIGNMENT FUND TO AID IN THE TRANSFER, AND TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL AUTHORITIES TO COUNTIES IN WHICH ALL SUCH NONESSENTIAL ROADS HAVE BEEN TRANSFERRED; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-1-360, RELATING TO THE CHIEF INTERNAL AUDITOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A CERTIFIED INTERNAL AUDITOR AND A CERTIFIED FRAUD EXAMINER TO HOLD THE POSITION; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-20, RELATING TO THE DIVISION DEPUTY DIRECTORS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO DESIGNATE SUCH OFFICIALS AS DEPUTY SECRETARIES AND TO ESTABLISH THE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR PLANNING; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-35-710, RELATING TO CERTAIN TRANSPORTATION EXEMPTIONS TO THE PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE THE EXEMPTIONS; BY ADDING SECTIONS 57-5-1710 AND 57-5-1720 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PHASED DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTORS AND CONSTRUCTION

MANAGER/GENERAL CONTRACTORS; BY ADDING SECTION 57-3-790 SO AS TO SPECIFY THE CONDITIONS IN WHICH THE STATE WAIVES ITS IMMUNITY UNDER THE ELEVENTH AMENDMENT OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 57-5-820 AND 57-5-830, BOTH RELATING TO MUNICIPALITIES AND ROADWORK, SO AS TO SPECIFY PROCEDURES WHEN A MUNICIPALITY OBJECTS TO CERTAIN ROADWORK; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-615, RELATING TO HIGHWAY TOLLS, SO AS TO SPECIFY THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH A TOLL MAY BE IMPOSED ON A STATE HIGHWAY; BY ADDING SECTIONS 57-3-240 AND 57-3-250 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO ENTER INTO RECIPROCAL AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER JURISDICTIONS AND PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS, AND TO SPECIFY CONDITIONS OF SUCH AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2740, RELATING TO "C" FUNDS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF SUCH FUNDS, TO SPECIFY THE MEMBERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEES, TO PROVIDE FOR BONDING OF "C" FUNDS, TO DELETE PROVISIONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR A CRIME REGARDING UNDUE INFLUENCE ON CERTAIN OFFICIALS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2920, RELATING TO TOLLS, SO AS TO SPECIFY WHEN TOLL REVENUES MAY BE EXPENDED; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-645, RELATING TO A ROAD USE FEE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF THE ALTERNATE FUEL FEE AND CREDIT THE REVENUE TO THE STATE HIGHWAY FUND; BY ADDING SECTION 12-28-360 SO AS TO IMPOSE A TAX ON ELECTRICITY CONSUMED WHEN USING CERTAIN PUBLIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 57-11-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF STATE HIGHWAY BONDS, SO AS TO DEFINE "ALTERNATIVE FUEL FEES".
(Ways and Means Com.--January 29, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 4382 (Word version)--Rep. Sessions: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-398, RELATING TO THE SALE OF PRODUCTS

CONTAINING EPHEDRINE OR PSEUDOEPHEDRINE; SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT MANUFACTURERS OF THESE PRODUCTS PAY MONTHLY FEES ASSOCIATED WITH DATA COLLECTION AND TO ESTABLISH A PENALTY FOR FAILURE OF MANUFACTURERS TO COMPLY.
(Labor, Com. & Ind. Com.--April 23, 2025)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 5216 (Word version)--Reps. Chapman, Brewer, Sessions, Gagnon, Sanders, Hager and Vaughan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-10-30, RELATING TO THE ADOPTION OF THE 2009 EDITION OF THE ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, SO AS TO LIMIT ITS APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCTION FALLING WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 6-10-40, RELATING TO APPEAL BY LOCAL JURISDICTION FOR VARIANCE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT STATEWIDE MODIFICATIONS NOT FALLING WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE MAY BE MADE IN THE SAME MANNER AS OTHER BUILDING CODES.
(Labor, Com. & Ind. Com.--February 19, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 3771 (Word version)--Reps. Hartnett, Erickson, M. M. Smith, Wetmore, Bradley, Stavrinakis, Hewitt, Hager, Lawson, Teeple, Brewer, Herbkersman, Landing, Bustos, Spann-Wilder and Kirby: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 50-23-37 SO AS TO REQUIRE OWNERS OF CERTAIN BOATS ANCHORED IN THE WATERS OF THIS STATE TO MAINTAIN MARINE RECOVERY INSURANCE ON THEIR BOATS, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
(Labor, Com. & Ind. Com.--January 16, 2025)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 4103 (Word version)--Reps. B. J. Cox, B. Newton, Atkinson, Ballentine, Bauer, Collins, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Govan, Guest, Guffey, Hager, Hardee, Herbkersman, Holman, Hosey, Howard, J. E. Johnson, Kilmartin, Kirby, Lawson, Magnuson, McCabe, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan,

Oremus, Rivers, Rose, Sanders, M. M. Smith, Taylor, White, Wooten, Bailey, Gilliam, Spann-Wilder, Calhoon, Wetmore, Bowers, Landing, Weeks, Hixon, Bernstein, Beach, Erickson, Vaughan, Chapman, Yow, Caskey, Bustos, Ligon, Wickensimer, McDaniel, Rankin, Waters, Lastinger, Grant and Brewer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-37-35 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTOMETRY MAY ISSUE RESTRICTED VOLUNTEER MEMBER LICENSES TO OPTOMETRISTS FROM OTHER STATES WHO MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SUPERVISION, DURATION, AND REGULATION OF SUCH LICENSES, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-10, RELATING TO MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTOMETRY, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF OPTOMETRISTS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-30, RELATING TO LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PRACTICE OF OPTOMETRY, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES THAT CONSTITUTE THE PRACTICE OF OPTOMETRY; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-40, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD SHALL REQUIRE LICENSED OPTOMETRISTS TO MEET EDUCATIONAL AND COMPETENCE REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED BY THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-245, RELATING TO EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT, SO AS TO ALLOW EXAMINATION EQUIVALENTS AS DETERMINED BY THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-290, RELATING TO THE PURCHASING, PRESCRIBING, AND ADMINISTERING PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS BY OPTOMETRISTS, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS AND LIMIT THE PERMISSIBLE USE OF SUCH MEDICATIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-310, RELATING TO REFERRALS FOR TREATMENT OF EYE DISEASES, SO AS TO REMOVE PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE TREATMENT OF GLAUCOMA AND

PROVISION OF SURGERY; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-330, RELATING TO USE OF OPTOMETRISTS' SERVICES AUTHORIZED FOR AGENCY AND SCHOOL-REQUIRED EXAMINATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE OPTOMETRISTS MAY PROVIDE VISION OR EYE CARE SERVICES AT A SCHOOL IF APPROVED BY THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE INDIVIDUAL SCHOOL; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-420, RELATING TO PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING CERTAIN LICENSEES, SO AS TO DELETE THE EXISTING PROVISIONS, TO PROVIDE PERSONS LICENSED AS OPTOMETRISTS IN THIS STATE MAY CONTINUE PRACTICING UNDER CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS EXCEPT THAT SUCH PERSONS LICENSED BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2013, MUST FULFILL CREDENTIALING REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM CERTAIN TREATMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-79-30, RELATING TO PROVISIONS LIMITING LIABILITY FOR VOLUNTEER HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS UNDER MEDICAL MALPRACTICE INSURANCE LAWS, SO AS TO REMOVE A PROVISION CONCERNING NOTICE REQUIREMENTS TO PATIENTS, AND TO INCLUDE OPTOMETRISTS AMONG THE VOLUNTEERS INCLUDED IN THESE PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-30-310, RELATING TO IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY FOR FREE HEALTHCARE SERVICES, SO AS TO INCLUDE VOLUNTEER OPTOMETRISTS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 40-37-300 RELATING TO ESTABLISHING PHARMACIES OR SELLING PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS, AND DISPENSING CONTACT LENSES.
(Med., Mil., Pub. & Mun. Affrs. Com.--February 26, 2025)
(Recalled and referred to Labor, Com. & Ind. Com.--January 14, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--April 02, 2026)

H. 5309 (Word version)--Rep. Erickson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 64 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO ENACT THE "INTERSTATE TEACHER MOBILITY COMPACT," TO PROVIDE THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA HEREBY ENTERS THE COMPACT WITH ANY AND ALL STATES LEGALLY JOINING THEREIN ACCORDING TO THE TERMS OF THE

COMPACT, AND TO ADOPT THE TERMS OF THE COMPACT IN ITS SUBSTANTIAL FORM.
(Educ. & Pub. Wks. Com.--March 04, 2026)
(Favorable--April 02, 2026)

H. 4756 (Word version)--(Debate adjourned until Tue., Apr. 14, 2026--April 01, 2026)

H. 3557 (Word version)--Reps. B. Newton, Pedalino, Taylor, Guest, Crawford, Schuessler and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-15, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS TO RUN AS A CANDIDATE IN GENERAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO SHORTEN THE CANDIDATE FILING PERIOD, TO REQUIRE ALL CANDIDATES FROM EACH POLITICAL PARTY IN THIS STATE TO PAY A FILING FEE, AND TO AUTHORIZE POLITICAL PARTIES TO CHARGE A CERTIFICATION FEE TO ALL CANDIDATES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-210, RELATING TO THE FILING OF PARTY PLEDGES BY CANDIDATES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE DATE BY WHICH A PARTY PLEDGE MUST BE FILED.
(Pending question: Shall the House concur in the Senate Amendments--April 02, 2026)

H. 4758 (Word version)--Reps. W. Newton, Bradley, Brewer, Chapman, Crawford, Davis, Duncan, Erickson, Forrest, Gilliam, Guest, Hartz, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Lawson, Ligon, Lowe, Martin, McGinnis, T. Moore, B. Newton, Oremus, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Robbins, Schuessler, G. M. Smith, Taylor, Teeple, Vaughan, Whitmire, Willis, Wooten and McCravy: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 46-55-5 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSE OF THIS CHAPTER IS TO ENCOURAGE THE LAWFUL CULTIVATION, HARVESTING, AND MANUFACTURING OF HEMP; BY AMENDING SECTION 46-55-10, RELATING TO

INDUSTRIAL HEMP CULTIVATION TERMS AND DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL TERMS AND THEIR DEFINITIONS, AND TO REVISE THE DEFINITIONS OF EXISTING TERMS; AND BY ADDING SECTIONS 46-55-70, 46-55-80, AND 46-55-90 SO AS TO REGULATE THE DISTRIBUTION AND SALE OF CONSUMABLE HEMP, TO PROVIDE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS CHAPTER MAY NOT BE CONSTRUED TO LIMIT INTERSTATE COMMERCE, OR TO PROHIBIT THE LAWFUL POSSESSION, MANUFACTURE, SALE, OR DISTRIBUTION OF CERTAIN CBD PRODUCTS, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.
(Prefiled--Tuesday, December 16, 2025)
(Judiciary Com.--January 13, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--January 29, 2026)
(Requests for debate by Reps. Anderson, Ballentine, Bauer, Bernstein, Brittain, Caskey, Cobb-Hunter, Duncan, Gilliam, Hewitt, Hiott, Jones, Kirby, Magnuson, Martin, McCravy, B. Newton, Oremus, Pope, M.M. Smith and Taylor--February 03, 2026)
(Debate adjourned--April 01, 2026)

H. 4042 (Word version)--Reps. Kilmartin, White, Gilreath, Cromer, Guffey, Harris, Hager, McCravy, Edgerton, Terribile, Magnuson, Lastinger, D. Mitchell, Sessions, Chapman, Brewer, Lawson, Oremus, Hartz, Vaughan, Pedalino, Teeple, Landing, Rankin, Schuessler, Ligon,
Long, Sanders, Ford, T. Moore, Forrest, Chumley, Bowers, Taylor and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-150 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE OVER-THE-COUNTER SALE OF IVERMECTIN TABLETS.
(Med., Mil., Pub. & Mun. Affrs. Com.--February 19, 2025)
(Fav. With Amdt.--March 25, 2026)
(Requests for debate by Reps. Bamberg, Cobb-Hunter, Grant, Hart, Henderson-Myers, Hosey, J.L. Johnson, Jones, King, Kirby, Luck, Reese, M.M. Smith, Waters and Williams--March 26, 2026)
(Debate adjourned until Thu., Apr. 02, 2026--April 01, 2026)

H. 4737 (Word version)--Reps. McGinnis and Grant: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-35 SO AS TO CREATE A MANDATORY

ORIENTATION TRAINING PROGRAM FOR NEW MEMBERS OF THE BOARDS OF TRUSTEES OF THE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROGRAM, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED DUTIES OF THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD SECRETARY OF EACH INSTITUTION.
(Prefiled--Tuesday, December 16, 2025)
(Educ. & Pub. Wks. Com.--January 13, 2026)
(Fav. With Amdt.--March 25, 2026)
(Requests for debate by Reps. Anderson, Dillard, Gilliard, Govan, Hart, J.L. Johnson, Jones, King, Rivers, Waters and Weeks--March 26, 2026)
(Debate adjourned--April 01, 2026)

H. 4270 (Word version)--Reps. Schuessler, B. J. Cox, McGinnis, Yow, Jones, Vaughan, Kirby, Dillard, Wetmore, Bauer, Collins, Wickensimer, Brewer, Gilliard, Bernstein, Bannister, Willis, J. L. Johnson, Guest, King, Chapman, Herbkersman, Bradley, Brittain, Burns, Martin, Calhoon, Lowe, C. Mitchell, Oremus, Atkinson, Sessions, Haddon and Waters: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 60-2-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN PUBLIC RECORDS.
(Judiciary Com.--March 27, 2025)
(Fav. With Amdt.--March 26, 2026)
(Requests for debate by Reps. Beach, Cromer, Edgerton, Frank, Gilreath, Harris, Magnuson, McCabe, Pace, Terribile and White--March 31, 2026)

H. 3197 (Word version)--Reps. Erickson, G. M. Smith, Wooten, Pope, Martin, W. Newton, Grant, Robbins, Vaughan, Alexander, Govan, Hartnett, Henderson-Myers and Kirby: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-1-485 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A STATEWIDE WORKFORCE READINESS GOAL; BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-245 SO AS TO PROVIDE REMEDIATION IN COURSES IN LITERACY AND MATHEMATICS TO HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS SEEKING POST-SECONDARY STUDIES BUT LACKING REQUISITE ACADEMIC PREPARATION, TO PROVIDE THIS COURSEWORK MAY BE USED TO MEET HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED IMPLEMENTATION

REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, AND THE STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM; BY ADDING SECTION 59-39-105 SO AS TO PROVIDE HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS SHALL COMPLETE AND SUBMIT A FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID BEFORE GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL, TO PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS, TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THESE PROVISIONS, AND TO MAKE THESE PROVISIONS APPLICABLE BEGINNING WITH THE 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-26-35, RELATING TO EDUCATOR PREPARATION PROGRAM EVALUATIONS AND THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATOR PREPARATION REPORT CARD, SO AS TO TRANSFER PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY FOR CONDUCTING THESE EVALUATIONS AND PRODUCING THIS REPORT CARD TO THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, AMONG OTHER THINGS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-140 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND WORKFORCE SHALL MAINTAIN AND PROVIDE FREE ONLINE ACCESS TO INFORMATION REGARDING THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF COLLEGE MAJORS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
(Prefiled--Thursday, December 05, 2024)
(Educ. & Pub. Wks. Com.--January 14, 2025)
(Fav. With Amdt.--March 26, 2026)
(Requests for debate by Reps. Beach, Cromer, Edgerton, Frank, Gilreath, Harris, Kilmartin, Magnuson, Pace, Terribile and White--March 31, 2026)

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