The bill H. 3271 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 59-101-440, which provides specific criteria under which students can be exempt from paying out-of-state tuition at public institutions of higher education in South Carolina. To qualify, a student must have attended a high school in South Carolina for three or more years, graduated from a high school or received an equivalent diploma in the state, and either register as an entering student or be currently enrolled no earlier than the fall semester of the 2026-2027 academic year. Additionally, if the student lacks lawful immigration status, they must file an affidavit with the institution indicating their intention to legalize their immigration status.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that students eligible for state-sponsored scholarships or tuition assistance must also meet the specific qualifications of those programs. It ensures that any student information collected during the implementation of this act remains confidential and mandates the Commission on Higher Education to adopt necessary rules and regulations to enforce these provisions. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 59-101-440
Latest Version: 59-101-440
12/06/2024: 59-101-440