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 amendments to Section 16-23-440, which outlines the penalties for discharging firearms unlawfully.

The revised penalties create a tiered structure, significantly increasing fines and prison sentences for offenders. Under the new provisions, individuals found guilty of discharging firearms into occupied structures face a maximum fine of $20,000 and up to ten years in prison, while those causing bodily injury to an occupant could face fines of $50,000 and up to fifteen years of imprisonment. This legislative change reflects a commitment to enhancing public safety and addressing gun violence more rigorously in South Carolina.

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