The bill S. 744 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 27-37-170, which allows individuals to apply for the expungement of their civil eviction records. Under this new provision, a person can seek expungement from the magistrate court in their county if they have not experienced any additional evictions for a minimum of five years following their last eviction. The magistrate court is required to verify this by conducting a search through the public index or using another reasonable method to ensure no other evictions have occurred during that timeframe.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the South Carolina Office of Court Administration will set the fees associated with civil expungement. This legislation is designed to provide individuals with a pathway to clear their eviction records, potentially aiding in their ability to secure housing in the future. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.
Statutes affected: 12/10/2025: 27-37-170
Latest Version: 27-37-170