The bill H. 4678 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically Section 23-23-60, which pertains to the certification of law enforcement officers by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Training Council. The proposed changes include allowing law enforcement candidates to hold a driver's license issued by any jurisdiction in the United States, rather than being restricted to South Carolina licenses. Additionally, the bill seeks to eliminate the requirement that officers must reside in South Carolina to be certified or employed, addressing recruitment challenges faced by communities near state borders.

The General Assembly recognizes that neighboring states, such as North Carolina, do not impose residency limitations for law enforcement employment, which can hinder South Carolina's ability to attract qualified candidates. By removing these restrictions, the bill aims to enhance public safety, broaden the talent pool for law enforcement positions, and provide greater flexibility for municipalities experiencing workforce shortages. The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy is tasked with revising certification standards and application procedures accordingly.

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 23-23-60
Latest Version: 23-23-60