The bill S. 398 proposes an amendment to Section 22-1-10 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically regarding the appointment requirements for magistrates in counties with populations under fifty thousand. The amendment allows individuals with four years of full-time military or law enforcement experience to be eligible for appointment as magistrates, waiving the previous requirement of holding a four-year baccalaureate degree. This change is intended to broaden the pool of candidates for magistrate positions in smaller counties, potentially enhancing the qualifications of those serving in these roles.

The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria for magistrates, including citizenship, residency, age, and educational qualifications. The existing requirements stipulate that candidates must be U.S. citizens, residents of South Carolina for at least five years, at least twenty-one years old, and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. The amendment introduces a new provision that, starting July 1, 2025, will allow individuals with relevant military or law enforcement experience to bypass the baccalaureate degree requirement, thereby facilitating the appointment of qualified individuals who may not have pursued traditional higher education. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
02/26/2025: 22-1-10
Latest Version: 22-1-10