The bill S. 631 aims to amend Section 23-3-535 of the South Carolina Code of Laws to impose new residency restrictions on certain sex offenders. Specifically, it makes 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. The bill also clarifies definitions related to these facilities and establishes penalties for violations, which range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the number of offenses. Additionally, it mandates that local law enforcement agencies notify sex offenders of any violations and provide them with a list of prohibited areas.

Importantly, the bill includes a provision that protects individuals who owned or rented property before the effective date of the act from being required to relocate due to these new residency restrictions, as long as their residency has been continuous and lawful. This exception aims to prevent undue hardship on those who may have established their homes prior to the enactment of the new law. The bill is currently under consideration in the Senate Committee on Judiciary.

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