The bill H. 3048 aims to amend Section 17-5-130 of the South Carolina Code of Laws to revise the qualifications required for coroners in the state. Key changes include the introduction of a requirement for coroners to undergo a fingerprint and background check conducted by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) prior to the general election. This new requirement mandates that fingerprints be submitted no later than 130 days before the election, and the results of the background check must be filed with the county executive committee of the candidate's political party or the county election commission for those seeking nomination by petition.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific qualifications for coroners, including citizenship, residency, age, educational attainment, and experience in death investigation. It also establishes training requirements for coroners, including a basic training session to be completed within a year of election or appointment, and annual in-service training. The bill provides for the establishment of a Coroners Training Advisory Committee to oversee training requirements and qualifications, and it stipulates that counties will bear the costs of training for coroners and deputy coroners. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 17-5-130
02/19/2025: 17-5-130
02/25/2025: 17-5-130
Latest Version: 17-5-130
12/06/2024: 17-5-130