The bill S. 249 proposes amendments to Section 2-20-30 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which governs the public hearing process for nonjudicial candidates. The amendments eliminate the requirement that hearings be conducted no later than two weeks prior to the election date. Additionally, the bill stipulates that candidates may not obtain pledges or commitments until the twelfth day after the names of the nominees have been released. Furthermore, it mandates that a minimum of twenty-two days must pass between the release of the nominations report and the election date.

The bill also outlines the procedures for public hearings, including the requirement for candidates to submit written statements of their proposed testimony 48 hours prior to the hearing. It ensures that all testimony is given under oath and establishes penalties for providing false information. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor and will apply to elections occurring after July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
01/21/2025: 2-20-30
Latest Version: 2-20-30