The bill S. 631 aims to amend Section 23-3-535 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which governs the residency limitations for certain sex offenders. The proposed changes make it unlawful for a sex offender to reside within one thousand feet of a school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, school bus stop, or public playground. Additionally, the bill specifies that property owners or renters who were already residing in these areas before the bill's effective date will not be required to relocate, provided their residency has been continuous and lawful.

The bill also outlines the penalties for sex offenders who violate these residency restrictions, with increasing consequences for repeat offenses. Local law enforcement agencies are tasked with notifying offenders of violations and providing them with a list of prohibited areas. Furthermore, school districts are required to inform local law enforcement of school bus stop locations and to communicate the presence of nearby sex offenders to parents or guardians. The bill emphasizes that local governments cannot impose stricter penalties or alter the designated residency boundaries established in this legislation.

Statutes affected:
05/01/2025: 23-3-535
Latest Version: 23-3-535