The bill S. 325 proposes significant changes to the structure and governance of the Department of Consumer Affairs in South Carolina. It amends Section 1-30-10 of the South Carolina Code to officially include the Department of Consumer Affairs within the executive branch of state government. Additionally, it introduces Section 1-30-145, which outlines the transition of the Department of Consumer Affairs from its previous governance under the Commission on Consumer Affairs to being headed by an administrator appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. This transition involves the transfer of all employees, funds, and assets from the Commission to the newly established Department.

Furthermore, the bill makes several amendments to existing sections of the South Carolina Code, including Section 37-6-103, which clarifies the definition of "administrator" as the officer appointed by the Governor. It also modifies the roles and responsibilities of the administrator and the Commission, effectively dissolving the Commission on Consumer Affairs and replacing it with the administrator's leadership. The bill includes provisions for the administrator's qualifications, duties, and the process for appointing deputies, while ensuring that the administrator operates independently from any businesses regulated by the Department. Overall, the bill aims to streamline consumer affairs governance and enhance the efficiency of consumer protection in South Carolina.

Statutes affected:
02/06/2025: 1-30-10, 1-30-145, 37-6-103, 37-6-104
02/12/2025: 1-30-10, 1-30-145, 37-6-103, 37-6-104
04/16/2025: 1-30-10, 1-30-145, 37-6-103, 37-6-104
04/22/2025: 1-30-10, 1-30-145, 37-6-103, 37-6-104
Latest Version: 1-30-10, 1-30-145, 37-6-103, 37-6-104