The bill H. 3046 seeks to strengthen South Carolina's legal framework regarding the sexual exploitation of minors, particularly focusing on morphed images. It introduces definitions for "identifiable minor" and "morphed image" in Section 16-15-375, expanding the scope of sexual exploitation offenses to include these morphed images. Offenders found guilty of such crimes will be classified as Tier II offenders on the sex offender registry. Additionally, the bill allows for minors charged with offenses related to morphed images to have their cases heard in family court as misdemeanors for first offenses, with the possibility of mandating behavioral health counseling.

The bill also amends sections related to sex offender registration and criminal solicitation of minors. It prohibits adult offenders classified as Tier III from requesting termination of their registration with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and outlines specific criteria for those who may file such requests, including successful completion of treatment programs and a clean record for the past ten years. Furthermore, it clarifies the unlawful nature of contacting minors for sexual activities and reinforces prohibitions against employing minors in sexually explicit situations. A severability clause is included to ensure the validity of remaining provisions if any part of the act is deemed unconstitutional, and the bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 16-15-375, 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410, 23-3-430, 23-3-462, 16-15-342, 16-15-387, 44-48-30
02/26/2025: 16-15-375, 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410, 23-3-430, 23-3-462, 16-15-342, 16-15-387, 44-48-30
02/27/2025: 16-15-375, 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410, 23-3-430, 23-3-462, 16-15-342, 16-15-387, 44-48-30
Latest Version: 16-15-375, 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410, 23-3-430, 23-3-462, 16-15-342, 16-15-387, 44-48-30
12/06/2024: 16-15-375, 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410, 23-3-430, 23-3-462, 16-15-342, 16-15-387, 44-48-30