The bill H. 4001 seeks to amend Section 61-6-4160 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which currently prohibits the sale of alcoholic liquors on Sundays, Christmas Day, and during certain periods proclaimed by the Governor. The proposed amendment allows local governing bodies to authorize the sale of alcoholic liquors on Sundays under specific conditions. It establishes a framework for issuing permits for Sunday sales, which can occur between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in counties or municipalities that approve such sales through a majority vote in a referendum.

The bill outlines the process for conducting referendums, including the requirement for a petition from at least ten percent of qualified electors and the stipulation that a referendum cannot be held more than once every forty-eight months by the same governing body. It also specifies that the expenses for conducting the referendum will be borne by the county or municipality. Additionally, the bill includes penalties for violations of its provisions, categorizing offenses into first, second, and third offenses with corresponding fines and imprisonment terms. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
02/13/2025: 61-6-4160
Latest Version: 61-6-4160