The bill H. 3558 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by revising Article 23 of Chapter 1, Title 1, which pertains to calls for constitutional amending conventions made to Congress. The bill proposes to retitle the article and introduces new sections that define essential terms and outline the qualifications, appointment process, oath, and duties of commissioners who will represent South Carolina at an Article V convention. Key provisions include the repeal of Joint Resolution 775 of 1976 and the disavowal of any previous calls for a constitutional convention made prior to the enactment of this bill.
The bill establishes specific qualifications for commissioners, such as being a U.S. citizen, a resident of South Carolina for at least five years, at least 25 years old, and a registered voter. It also prohibits individuals with certain backgrounds, such as federal lobbyists or those with felony convictions in the last ten years, from serving as commissioners. The General Assembly will appoint seven commissioners and one alternate, who can be recalled or removed as necessary. Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the advisory committee, which will oversee the commissioners and ensure compliance with the commissioning resolution. Violations of the established rules can lead to penalties, including removal from office.