The bill S. 92 proposes amendments to Section 22-1-10 of the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding the appointment and tenure of magistrates. It stipulates that a magistrate may serve in a holdover capacity for no more than fourteen days after their term expires. If a new magistrate is not appointed within this timeframe due to the Senate's failure to provide advice and consent, the Governor is authorized to make a temporary appointment until a permanent one is confirmed. Additionally, the bill establishes that any magistrate or magistrate candidate who has been reprimanded by the Supreme Court or any other disciplinary authority cannot be appointed or reappointed unless a majority of the Senate approves the appointment after being informed of the reprimand or disciplinary action.

The bill also includes provisions requiring county governing bodies to inform their respective Senators about the number of magistrate positions available, work hours, compensation, and assignments at least ninety days before the commencement of terms. If this information is not provided, the previous terms' conditions will remain in effect. Furthermore, it ensures that a magistrate's work hours, compensation, and location remain consistent throughout their term, with specific exceptions for changes allowed by statute or authorized by the county governing body after a significant change in conditions. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 22-1-10
Latest Version: 22-1-10