The bill S. 316 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by introducing new sections that provide guidelines and protections for the Attorney General in enforcement actions. Specifically, it establishes that when the Attorney General acts in the name of the State, they do so in the public interest and not as a representative of any state department or agency. This section clarifies that such departments and agencies are not parties to these actions, and their documents are not under the Attorney General's control. Additionally, the bill allows the Attorney General to pursue the remedy of disgorgement in relevant actions and grants privilege to materials prepared during investigations into potential violations, ensuring that these materials remain protected even after the investigation concludes.
Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the authority and protections for the Attorney General while reinforcing the independence of their actions from state agencies. It is designed to facilitate more effective enforcement of laws in the public interest and to safeguard sensitive materials related to investigations. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.
Statutes affected: 02/05/2025: 1-7-95, 39-5-55, 39-5-85
Latest Version: 1-7-95, 39-5-55, 39-5-85