The bill H. 3739 aims to amend Section 23-1-212 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the enforcement of state criminal laws by federal law enforcement officers. The primary change introduced by this bill is the inclusion of special agents of the Department of Defense in the definition of "federal law enforcement officer." This addition recognizes the authority of various Department of Defense investigative divisions, such as the Army Criminal Investigation Division, Naval Criminal Investigation Division, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and Defense Criminal Investigative Service, to enforce state laws.

The bill specifies that federal law enforcement officers are full-time employees of the federal government authorized to carry firearms while performing their duties. By expanding the definition to include Department of Defense special agents, the bill enhances the scope of federal law enforcement presence in South Carolina, potentially improving collaboration between state and federal agencies in law enforcement efforts. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/15/2025: 23-1-212
Latest Version: 23-1-212