The bill H. 4522 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 16-15-420, which establishes the offense of sexual grooming of a minor. The bill defines key terms such as "actor," "communication," "harmful to minors," "minor," "pattern of conduct or communication," "sexual activity," and "sexually explicit nudity," all of which are referenced from existing law. Under this new section, an actor who engages in a pattern of conduct or communication that includes explicit descriptions of sexual activity or representations of sexually explicit nudity directed at a minor is committing the offense of sexual grooming.

The bill stipulates that such an offense is classified as a felony, with penalties including a fine of up to five thousand dollars or imprisonment for a maximum of five years. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a mistake of age is not a valid defense in prosecutions under this section. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
05/06/2025: 16-15-420
Latest Version: 16-15-420