The bill S. 504 aims to amend Section 44-53-445 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which addresses the distribution of controlled substances near educational institutions. The proposed changes expand the definition of locations where such offenses are considered separate criminal offenses to include not only public and private elementary, middle, and secondary schools, but also childcare facilities and day programs. This amendment is intended to enhance the protection of children in these environments from the dangers associated with controlled substances.

In addition to the inclusion of childcare facilities and day programs, the bill specifies that for a conviction to occur, the individual must have knowledge of their proximity to these locations and must have engaged in the distribution or possession of controlled substances within the specified radius. Furthermore, it clarifies that a person cannot be convicted if they were stopped by law enforcement within the designated area but did not actually commit the offense there. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
03/26/2025: 44-53-445
04/02/2025: 44-53-445
Latest Version: 44-53-445