The bill H. 4398 seeks to amend Section 54-7-670 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to hobby licenses for the recovery of objects from submerged archaeological and paleontological sites. The amendment specifically allows for the recovery of objects using a magnet, in addition to hand collection. It clarifies that the recovery of materials is limited to those that can be obtained without excavation and prohibits the use of powered mechanical dredging and lifting devices, with the exception of personal flotation devices.

Under the new provisions, individuals with a hobby license are permitted to collect a reasonable number of artifactual items and fossil specimens from submerged lands, provided these items are exposed or resting on the bottom sediments. The bill emphasizes that no materials may be recovered unless they can be obtained by hand or magnet, and it requires individuals to contact a museum before recovering specimens that are part of a joined or interrelated fossil. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
04/23/2025: 54-7-670
Latest Version: 54-7-670