The bill H. 3059 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 16-17-485, which defines the term "tracking device" and establishes the offense of unlawful tracking. A "tracking device" is described as an electronic device, such as a GPS, intended to track the location of a motor vehicle. The bill makes it unlawful for any person, including law enforcement or private investigators, to install or use a tracking device on a motor vehicle without the knowledge and consent of the vehicle's owner or authorized operator. Violators of this provision would be guilty of a misdemeanor, facing a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to one year.

The bill also outlines specific exceptions to the unlawful tracking provisions. These exceptions include the use of tracking devices for providing navigational information, emergency assistance, missing vehicle assistance, and diagnostic services, as well as situations where the lessee of a vehicle has been informed in writing about the tracking. Additionally, parents or legal guardians are permitted to track vehicles owned or leased by them that are operated by their children under the age of eighteen. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 16-17-485
Latest Version: 16-17-485
12/06/2024: 16-17-485