The bill H. 3506 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Article 29 to Chapter 1, Title 1, which provides specific definitions and rules of construction regarding human biological sexes for the purposes of state laws, administrative regulations, and guidelines. It asserts that there are only two sexes, male and female, which correspond to distinct biological characteristics observable at or before birth. The bill emphasizes that an individual's sex is not determined by self-identification and seeks to clarify the meanings of terms related to sex and gender, including "woman," "man," "girl," "boy," and "gender." It also states that the definitions of "sex," "male," and "female" do not prevent reasonable accommodations for individuals with disorders of sex development.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the term "gender" should be considered synonymous with sex when referring to males and females, but not as a substitute for concepts like gender identity or expression. The legislation aims to eliminate confusion surrounding the definitions of sex and gender, asserting that separate facilities or sports leagues based on physical differences do not constitute unequal treatment under the law. The bill includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part is deemed unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still stand. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.