The bill H. 3126 seeks to establish the "South Carolina Department of Law Enforcement and Public Safety" as a new administrative agency, which will incorporate the existing functions of the Department of Public Safety and the State Law Enforcement Division. It outlines the appointment process for the department's director, who will serve a four-year term, and includes provisions for the director's removal. The bill also amends various sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws to replace references to the "Department of Public Safety" with the new department's name, ensuring consistency in terminology across legal frameworks.

Additionally, the bill introduces several key provisions aimed at enhancing public safety operations, including the creation of a "Body-Worn Cameras Fund" to support law enforcement agencies, the establishment of a framework for commissioning former law enforcement officers as Special Constables, and the formation of the South Carolina Public Safety Coordinating Council. It also addresses vehicle safety regulations, including the enforcement of protective equipment standards for two-wheeled motorized vehicle operators and the management of roadside vehicle inspections. Overall, the bill aims to streamline operations within the new department while improving safety regulations and enforcement mechanisms across the state.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 1-3-240, 1-7-920, 1-30-10, 1-30-90, 2-13-240, 5-3-90, 23-23-30, 23-3-10
02/04/2025: 1-3-240, 1-7-920, 1-30-10, 1-30-90, 2-13-240, 5-3-90, 23-23-30, 23-3-10
Latest Version: 1-3-240, 1-7-920, 1-30-10, 1-30-90, 2-13-240, 5-3-90, 23-23-30, 23-3-10