The bill S. 665 proposes the establishment of the "South Carolina-Bahamas Trade Commission" by adding Chapter 80 to Title 39 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. The commission aims to enhance bilateral trade and investment between South Carolina and The Bahamas and will consist of fifteen members appointed by various state leaders, including the Speaker of the House, the President of the Senate, and the Governor. The appointments will include representatives from the House and Senate, state institutions of higher education, Bahamian-American communities, and South Carolina business organizations. Members will serve staggered terms, with initial terms varying from two to four years, and will not receive compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses.
The commission's responsibilities will include promoting business and academic exchanges, initiating joint policy actions, and addressing mutual economic support and infrastructure investment. It is required to report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly annually. Additionally, the commission is authorized to raise funds through various means to support its activities, with provisions allowing the Department of Commerce to use appropriated funds if necessary. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.