The bill S. 723 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding penalties for sexual exploitation of minors. It proposes to increase the minimum penalties for first degree sexual exploitation from three years to five years of imprisonment, and for second degree sexual exploitation from two years to three years. Additionally, the bill introduces a structured penalty system for third degree sexual exploitation based on the number of images possessed, with penalties ranging from two to ten years depending on the quantity of images. It also stipulates that individuals required to register as sex offenders who violate these provisions must serve a minimum of five years.

The bill further clarifies that a mistake of age is not a valid defense in prosecutions under these sections. It maintains that offenses committed by minors related to morphed images will be treated as misdemeanors and adjudicated in family court, where behavioral health counseling may be mandated. The proposed changes are designed to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the protection of minors from sexual exploitation and to ensure that penalties reflect the severity of the offenses.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410
12/10/2025-A: 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410
Latest Version: 16-15-395, 16-15-405, 16-15-410