The bill H. 3556 proposes amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws concerning the authority and procedures of the state executive committee of political parties in handling primary protests and contests. It expands the committee's jurisdiction to include protests and contests related to county officers, less than county officers, and municipal officers. Additionally, the bill allows the state executive committee to adopt a resolution requiring that any protest or contest be accompanied by a bond with surety, which would cover the costs of the hearing if the challenge is denied. Appeals from the committee's decisions would be directed to the Supreme Court, which must prioritize these cases.

Furthermore, the bill amends the timeline for hearings on primary protests and contests, requiring the committee to conduct hearings within two weeks of the filing deadline. It also stipulates that protests and contests related to municipal primaries must be filed and decided according to the same procedures established for other primary contests. The bill repeals several existing sections related to primary protests and contests, streamlining the process and consolidating the relevant legal framework. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 7-17-560, 7-17-570, 5-15-80, 7-17-520
Latest Version: 7-17-560, 7-17-570, 5-15-80, 7-17-520