The bill S. 177 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 17-13-180, which stipulates that the scent of marijuana, cannabis, or hemp—whether burnt or not—cannot be used by law enforcement as the sole basis for reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop, search, seize, or arrest an individual or vehicle. Specifically, it prohibits law enforcement officers from stopping a person or vehicle or conducting searches based solely on the detection of marijuana odor.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that any repeal or amendment of existing laws does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities that were established under those laws. This ensures that all laws that are repealed or amended by this act remain in effect for the purpose of sustaining any ongoing legal matters or rights as they existed prior to the enactment of this bill. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/14/2025: 17-13-180
Latest Version: 17-13-180