The bill H. 4478 aims to amend Section 48-35-50 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the authority of the State Forester to prohibit fires for public safety. The amendment requires that when the State Forester issues a directive to prohibit fires or open burning, they must notify the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. This division is then responsible for broadcasting the prohibition on all telecommunication devices throughout South Carolina.

The proposed changes include the insertion of a requirement for notification to the Emergency Management Division and the obligation for that division to disseminate the information widely. This ensures that the public is promptly informed of any fire prohibitions, enhancing safety measures during critical fire risk periods. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
05/01/2025: 48-35-50
05/01/2025-A: 48-35-50
Latest Version: 48-35-50