The bill S. 399 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 16-11-635, which establishes penalties for individuals who unlawfully enter transportation facilities, including public transportation systems, after being warned not to do so by authorized personnel. Specifically, it classifies such actions as a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $200 or imprisonment for up to 30 days. The bill outlines the process for issuing a written warning, which must be delivered in the presence of a law enforcement officer, and includes details such as the nature of the violation, the duration of the prohibition, and the procedure for appealing the warning.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals wishing to contest the warning must request a hearing from the transit authority within five business days, with the authority required to hold the hearing within ten business days. The enforcement of this section is designated to law enforcement officers within their jurisdictions, and it clarifies that these provisions are supplementary to existing laws regarding trespass or unlawful entry. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
02/27/2025: 16-11-635
Latest Version: 16-11-635