New Laws Shape South Carolina as 2025 Approaches
COLUMBIA, S.C. — As South Carolina nears the end of 2024, several new laws are beginning to take effect, alongside significant legislative changes enacted earlier this year. Unlike many states, South Carolina’s laws typically go into effect upon the governor’s signature or at the start of the fiscal year on July 1, making January 1’s implementation of three local bills in Lancaster, Florence, and Laurens counties a rare occurrence.
Among the major laws that took effect in 2024, the "Open Carry Without a Permit" law allows individuals to carry firearms openly without needing a permit. Additionally, a ban was enacted on gender-affirming care for minors, aligning South Carolina with 24 other states in limiting access to hormone therapies for transgender youth. Noteworthy changes in the state budget, effective in July, include a reduction in income taxes, a ban on cell phones in state schools, and a raise in teacher salaries, establishing a minimum of $47,000.
Looking ahead, two significant laws are set to come into effect on July 1, 2025. The first involves judicial reform, restructuring the Judicial Selection Commission to enhance transparency and oversight in the selection of judges. The second, the Seizure Safe Schools Act, mandates seizure training and healthcare planning for students with seizure disorders in schools.
As lawmakers prepare to reconvene on January 14, 2025, they intend to prioritize unfinished business, including exploring private school voucher legislation and addressing energy challenges facing the state.
Stay tuned to News19 for ongoing coverage of these developments as South Carolina navigates this evolving legislative landscape.
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