The bill H. 4716 proposes an amendment to Section 26, Article V of the South Carolina Constitution regarding the appointment of magistrates. The amendment stipulates that magistrates will be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the General Assembly, rather than solely by the Senate. Additionally, it introduces a requirement for a majority vote from each chamber of the General Assembly for such appointments. The bill also seeks to delete existing provisions that allow the General Assembly to determine the terms of office and the civil and criminal jurisdiction of magistrates, establishing instead a uniform term of four years for magistrates, continuing until their successors are appointed and qualified.

To implement this amendment, it will be submitted to the qualified electors during the next general election for representatives. Voters will have the opportunity to express their approval or disapproval of the proposed changes through a ballot that clearly outlines the modifications to the appointment process and the terms of office for magistrates.