The bill H. 4466 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding two new sections that prohibit discrimination by financial institutions and insurers based on certain personal characteristics. Specifically, Section 37-6-130 prohibits financial institutions from denying or canceling services based on a person's political opinions, religious beliefs, or affiliations, among other factors. It emphasizes that determinations about service provision must be based on risk factors unique to each customer, while allowing institutions with a religious purpose to consider religious beliefs in their assessments. Similarly, Section 38-57-330 establishes that insurers cannot discriminate against individuals based on political or religious affiliations and must base their service decisions on sound underwriting principles.
Both sections include detailed lists of factors that cannot be used for discrimination, such as social credit scores related to political opinions, lawful firearm ownership, and compliance with environmental or social governance standards. Violations of these provisions are classified as unfair or deceptive acts under the South Carolina Consumer Protection Code, subjecting offenders to penalties and remedies outlined in that code. The bill is currently under consideration in the House Committee on Labor, Commerce, and Industry.
Statutes affected: 04/30/2025: 37-6-130, 38-57-330
Latest Version: 37-6-130, 38-57-330