The bill H. 4684 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding emergency scene management and the penalties associated with unlawfully approaching stationary authorized emergency vehicles. It revises the penalty for such violations, increasing the fine from a range of $300 to $500 to a new range of $500 to $1,000. Additionally, the bill introduces the definition of "significantly reduce the speed," specifying that it means operating a vehicle at least twenty miles an hour below the posted speed limit. The Department of Public Safety is also tasked with compiling and publishing an annual report on citations issued under this section.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 56-1-720 to establish that four points must be assessed against a driver's motor vehicle operating record for unlawfully approaching stationary authorized emergency vehicles. This aligns with the overall goal of enhancing safety for emergency services personnel and ensuring compliance with traffic regulations near emergency scenes. The bill is set to take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Latest Version: 56-5-1538, 56-1-720