The bill H. 3613 proposes the creation of the Executive Office of Health and Policy in South Carolina, which will integrate the Departments of Health Financing, Public Health, Aging, Intellectual and Related Disabilities, and Behavioral Health. The office will be led by a Secretary of Health and Policy, appointed by the Governor with legislative consent, who will be responsible for developing a comprehensive State Health Services Plan and overseeing regulations from the various departments. The bill also includes amendments to the South Carolina Code, such as repealing Chapter 49 related to the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services, and outlines interim appointments for department directors to ensure a smooth transition during the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant changes to the Department of Public Health, including its renaming and the establishment of new procedures for managing public health emergencies and shellfish violations. It emphasizes the importance of data sharing and administrative service consolidation among health departments, while also creating new committees and councils to enhance oversight and service delivery. The bill aims to improve the state's public health infrastructure, streamline health services, and ensure compliance with health regulations, ultimately enhancing the coordination and efficiency of health services across South Carolina.

Statutes affected:
12/12/2024: 1-30-10, 8-17-370, 44-1-20, 44-1-315, 44-1-30, 44-6-140, 44-7-77, 44-7-180, 44-9-95, 44-20-10, 44-20-372, 43-21-10, 48-6-60
Latest Version: 1-30-10, 8-17-370, 44-1-20, 44-1-315, 44-1-30, 44-6-140, 44-7-77, 44-7-180, 44-9-95, 44-20-10, 44-20-372, 43-21-10, 48-6-60