The bill S. 753 proposes amendments to Section 17-5-130 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which outlines the qualifications for coroners in the state. Key changes include the introduction of a requirement for candidates to undergo fingerprinting and a comprehensive background check conducted by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) prior to the general election. This new requirement aims to ensure that individuals seeking the office of coroner do not have felony convictions or offenses involving moral turpitude. Additionally, the bill specifies that candidates must file a sworn affidavit detailing their qualifications, including their educational background and experience in death investigation.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that coroners complete a basic training session determined by the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy within a specified timeframe after their election or appointment. It also establishes ongoing training requirements for coroners and deputy coroners, including a minimum of sixteen hours of annual training. The bill outlines the formation of a Coroners Training Advisory Committee to oversee training requirements and qualifications for coroners, ensuring that they meet the necessary standards for their role. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the professionalism and accountability of coroners in South Carolina.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 17-5-130
Latest Version: 17-5-130