The bill S. 526 aims to amend Section 48-39-280 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to beach preservation appeals policies and procedures. The proposed changes include provisions that would stay any enforcement action during the pendency of an appeal, ensuring that landowners are not adversely affected while their appeals are being processed. Additionally, if an administrative law judge reverses the agency's decision, the agency will be responsible for covering the attorney fees and costs incurred by the appellant. This shift places a financial responsibility on the agency in cases where their decisions are overturned.

The bill outlines the process for landowners or authorized representatives to request a review of baseline or setback lines established by the agency. It specifies the timeline for review conferences and the issuance of decisions, ensuring that landowners are informed of their rights to contest decisions made by the agency. The inclusion of a stay on enforcement actions and the potential for the agency to bear legal costs represents a significant change in how appeals are handled, aiming to provide greater protection and support for landowners involved in disputes over beach preservation regulations.

Statutes affected:
04/01/2025: 48-39-280
04/02/2025: 48-39-280
04/15/2025: 48-39-280
04/18/2025: 48-39-280
Latest Version: 48-39-280