The bill H. 4260 seeks to amend Section 10-1-165 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, expanding the protections for monuments and memorials on public property. It prohibits the relocation, removal, disturbance, or alteration of various historical monuments, including those dedicated to significant wars and events, as well as monuments related to African American history. The bill also introduces a provision that allows the State Treasurer to withhold disbursements from the Local Government Fund for any county or municipality that violates these protections. Additionally, it establishes that the state and its subdivisions cannot claim sovereign immunity in civil actions related to these violations.

Furthermore, the bill grants standing to individuals and organizations to bring civil actions against violations, allowing for injunctive relief, declaratory relief, and recovery of damages for restoration costs. It also mandates the Department of History and Archives to create regulations for affinity organizations to maintain and restore monuments. Lastly, it prohibits counties, municipalities, or school districts from transferring ownership of the real property beneath or necessary for accessing these monuments to private entities. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
03/27/2025: 10-1-165
Latest Version: 10-1-165