The bill S. 279 proposes several amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws concerning the Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW). It stipulates that the Executive Director of DEW will be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, rather than being nominated by the DEW Review Committee. The bill also introduces specific qualifications for the Executive Director, including educational requirements and relevant experience in business, labor, and employment. Additionally, it removes the requirement that the Review Committee must find a nominee qualified before the Governor can appoint them, as well as the provision that the Committee must nominate three qualified applicants for the Governor's consideration.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the structure and responsibilities of the DEW Review Committee. It maintains the composition of the Committee but eliminates the requirement for the Committee to find a person qualified for the Executive Director position before appointment. The Committee will still be responsible for screening candidates for the DEW Appellate Panel and conducting performance reviews of the Executive Director. The amendments aim to streamline the appointment process and clarify the qualifications necessary for the Executive Director, while also adjusting the Committee's role in the nomination process. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/28/2025: 41-29-20, 41-29-35, 41-27-710, 41-27-720
03/13/2025: 41-29-20, 41-29-35, 41-27-710, 41-27-720
Latest Version: 41-29-20, 41-29-35, 41-27-710, 41-27-720