The proposed bill, known as the Parental Bill of Rights, aims to establish and protect the fundamental rights of parents regarding the upbringing, education, and healthcare of their children in South Carolina. It introduces a new chapter to the South Carolina Code of Laws, which outlines specific parental rights, including the right to direct their child's education and moral training, access school records, and make healthcare decisions. The bill also mandates that school districts develop parental involvement policies and prohibits healthcare providers from offering services to minors without written parental consent. Additionally, it asserts that the provisions of this chapter take precedence over any state of emergency declarations.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 63-5-340 to raise the age at which a minor can consent to health services from sixteen to eighteen years. It establishes a legal framework for parents to seek remedies in cases where their rights are violated, allowing them to pursue claims in state or federal court and potentially recover attorney fees and costs if successful. Overall, the legislation emphasizes the importance of parental authority and involvement in their children's lives while limiting government interference in these rights.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 63-5-340
Latest Version: 63-5-340
12/06/2024: 63-5-340