The "Earmark Transparency Act" aims to enhance the transparency and accountability of earmark funding in South Carolina. The bill introduces a new section, 2-1-270, to the South Carolina Code of Laws, which mandates that all requests for earmark projects or programs included in appropriations bills must be documented in writing using a specific form designed by the Chairpersons of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee. This form must detail the member's name, date of request, requested amount, project description, intended use of funds, and the recipient entity's name. Additionally, the completed form must be filed with the relevant committees and posted on the General Assembly's website within 24 hours.

The bill also establishes restrictions on earmark awards, prohibiting them from being granted to organizations with governing board members who are current or immediate family members of General Assembly members. Furthermore, it stipulates that earmarks can only be passed through to private entities that are registered and in good standing with the Secretary of State's Office. The definition of an earmark is clarified to include appropriations for specific projects not originating from a written agency budget request or prior appropriations acts. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/12/2024: 2-1-270
Latest Version: 2-1-270