The bill H. 3650 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding the offense of discharging firearms at or into various structures, including dwellings, vehicles, and other conveyances, to the list of violent crimes defined in Section 16-1-60. This inclusion emphasizes the seriousness of such actions and aligns them with other violent offenses. Additionally, the bill proposes changes to Section 16-23-440, which outlines penalties for discharging firearms unlawfully. The amendments create a tiered penalty structure, increasing fines and prison sentences based on the severity of the offense, particularly when bodily injury occurs to an occupant.

Specifically, the bill stipulates that individuals found guilty of discharging firearms into occupied structures or vehicles could face fines of up to twenty thousand dollars and imprisonment for up to ten years. If an occupant is struck or injured as a result of the discharge, the penalties increase to fines of up to fifty thousand dollars and imprisonment for up to fifteen years. These changes are intended to enhance public safety and deter individuals from engaging in such dangerous behavior. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/12/2024: 16-1-60, 16-23-440
02/26/2025: 16-1-60, 16-23-440
04/16/2025: 16-1-60, 16-23-440
Latest Version: 16-1-60, 16-23-440