The bill H. 4520 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by introducing new requirements for voter registration and the conduct of primary elections. Specifically, it mandates that voter registration must include a selection for party affiliation, allowing voters to change their registered party affiliation once annually, provided that any changes are submitted at least sixty days before a primary election. This addition is encapsulated in the new Section 7-5-172.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that all primary elections in South Carolina will be closed primaries, meaning that only voters registered with a specific political party can participate in that party's primary election. This provision is detailed in the new Section 7-13-17, which specifies that only registered Republicans can vote in the Republican primary, only registered Democrats in the Democratic primary, and similarly for other officially recognized political parties. The State Election Commission is tasked with developing and implementing the necessary procedures to maintain accurate records of party affiliations and changes. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
05/06/2025: 7-5-172, 7-13-17
Latest Version: 7-5-172, 7-13-17