The bill H. 4539 aims to amend several sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws to increase penalties for illegal fires, specifically targeting actions such as burning lands without consent, willfully setting fires, and negligently allowing fires to spread. Key amendments include raising fines and imprisonment terms for various offenses. For instance, the penalties for a first offense of burning lands without consent will now range from a fine of $500 to $2,000 and imprisonment for up to two years, while subsequent offenses will incur even harsher penalties, including felony charges for third offenses with fines starting at $10,000 and imprisonment for up to 20 years.

Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that suspends fire regulation exemptions during declared emergencies related to forest fires, ensuring stricter compliance during critical times. It also mandates that individuals convicted under these sections are liable for court costs and attorney's fees for damages incurred due to their actions. The bill is currently under consideration in the House Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environmental Affairs.

Statutes affected:
05/08/2025: 16-11-150, 16-11-170, 16-11-180, 48-35-55, 48-35-60
Latest Version: 16-11-150, 16-11-170, 16-11-180, 48-35-55, 48-35-60