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 in proximity to schools. The proposed changes expand the definition of locations where such offenses are considered separate criminal offenses to include child care facilities and day programs. Specifically, the bill stipulates that it is illegal to distribute, sell, purchase, manufacture, or unlawfully possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance within a one-half mile radius of various educational institutions, public playgrounds, and now, child care facilities and day programs.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which a person can be convicted of these offenses, emphasizing the requirement for the individual to have knowledge of their proximity to the specified locations and to have actually committed the offense within that radius. It also clarifies that a person cannot be convicted if they were stopped by law enforcement for a controlled substance offense but did not actually commit the offense within the designated areas. This legislation is set to 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