The bill S. 70 aims to enhance local school governance in South Carolina by establishing a framework for ethical conduct among school board members. It introduces a new Article 5 to Chapter 19, Title 59 of the South Carolina Code, which includes Section 59-19-710 that emphasizes the promotion of high ethical standards. Section 59-19-720 provides a definition of "board member," encompassing individuals on various educational boards. Section 59-19-730 mandates the State Board of Education to create and periodically revise a model code of ethics for local school boards, which must be adopted by local boards within three months of its release. Local boards are also required to submit their adopted codes to the Department of Education within thirty days and cannot implement codes that restrict open discussions among members.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 59-19-45 to require the State Board of Education to develop a model training program for local school board members, which must be reviewed every three years. Local boards must adopt their training programs within three months of the state model's adoption. The bill also stipulates that all newly elected or appointed board members must complete an orientation program within one year of taking office, covering essential topics such as ethics and conflicts of interest. The State Department of Education is tasked with reimbursing school districts for conducting these orientations, subject to budget constraints. The provisions related to the model code of ethics and training program will take effect upon the Governor's approval, with a completion deadline set for December 31, 2025.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 59-19-710, 59-19-720, 59-19-730, 59-19-45
02/11/2026: 59-19-710, 59-19-720, 59-19-730, 59-19-45
02/17/2026: 59-19-710, 59-19-720, 59-19-730, 59-19-45
Latest Version: 59-19-710, 59-19-720, 59-19-730, 59-19-45