The bill S. 533 aims to enhance the powers and responsibilities of the Legislative Audit Council in South Carolina. It introduces a new section, 2-15-130, granting the Council the authority to issue subpoenas and compel sworn testimony from state agencies and their employees, as well as access to various records and documents necessary for audits. Additionally, the bill amends existing sections to expand the qualifications for the Director of the Legislative Audit Council, ensuring that the position is filled by individuals with appropriate experience and education.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the access provisions in Section 2-15-61, allowing the Legislative Audit Council to access all records and facilities of state agencies, with specific exceptions, and mandates that agencies provide requested records promptly. It also establishes penalties for non-compliance, including fines and potential dismissal for state employees. Lastly, the bill clarifies the confidentiality of the Council's records in Section 2-15-120, ensuring that audit working papers remain confidential and not subject to public disclosure, while also outlining penalties for violations of this confidentiality.

Statutes affected:
04/02/2025: 2-15-130, 2-15-40, 2-15-61, 2-15-120
04/04/2025: 2-15-130, 2-15-40, 2-15-61, 2-15-120
Latest Version: 2-15-130, 2-15-40, 2-15-61, 2-15-120