The bill H. 3552 proposes significant changes to the election process in South Carolina by abolishing runoff elections. It introduces a new provision, Section 7-13-42, which states that the candidate receiving the most votes in a primary election will be considered the nominee, regardless of whether they achieve a majority. Additionally, the bill amends several existing sections of the South Carolina Code to remove references to runoff elections and to make conforming changes throughout the election laws. This includes amendments to voter registration deadlines and procedures related to special primary elections, early voting, and the canvassing of election results.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing laws that pertain to second primaries or runoffs, the requirement for a majority vote in the first primary, and methods for determining what constitutes a majority vote. The changes aim to streamline the election process and eliminate the need for runoff elections, which can prolong the electoral timeline. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval and will apply to all primaries conducted after March 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 7-13-42, 7-5-150, 7-11-55, 7-13-25, 7-17-280, 7-17-510, 7-13-50
Latest Version: 7-13-42, 7-5-150, 7-11-55, 7-13-25, 7-17-280, 7-17-510, 7-13-50