The "South Carolina Parental Rights to Affirm Biological Sex in Child Welfare and Placement Act" aims to establish guidelines regarding child welfare proceedings by emphasizing the importance of a child's biological sex. The bill mandates that courts and agencies consider affirming a child's biological sex as a positive factor in cases related to custody, welfare, abuse, neglect, and foster care placements. It defines key terms such as "biological sex," "gender confusion," and "affirmation of biological sex," and asserts that parents and legal guardians have the right to encourage their children to align with their biological sex without facing negative repercussions in legal evaluations or proceedings.

Additionally, the bill prohibits South Carolina agencies from being compelled to adhere to federal guidelines that conflict with its provisions, particularly regarding gender identity affirmation in foster care placements. It protects caregivers from being penalized for refusing medical procedures aimed at altering a child's biological sex and requires the South Carolina Department of Social Services and Family Court system to update their policies accordingly. The Department is also tasked with submitting annual reports to the General Assembly on the implementation of these provisions.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 63-7-50
Latest Version: 63-7-50
12/06/2024: 63-7-50