The bill H. 4253 aims to amend various sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws to clarify and update legal provisions regarding parental rights in cases of assisted reproduction. It establishes that the family court has exclusive jurisdiction to hear cases related to assisted reproduction parental rights, and it updates definitions related to paternity to include terms such as "assisted reproduction," "donor," and "intended parent." The bill also modifies the jurisdictional language to ensure consistency across related sections, including provisions for voluntary paternity agreements.

Key amendments include the stipulation that a donor of sperm or ova is legally treated as if they are not the natural parent unless there is a written agreement to the contrary. Additionally, it affirms that intended parents who conceive through assisted reproduction are recognized as the legal and natural parents, with their spouses also being recognized as such if they consented in writing. The bill emphasizes the importance of written agreements and the court's role in approving settlements and voluntary agreements related to these matters. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
03/27/2025: 63-3-530, 63-17-10, 63-17-20, 63-17-40
Latest Version: 63-3-530, 63-17-10, 63-17-20, 63-17-40