The bill H. 4971 proposes amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically by adding Section 57-5-200, which mandates the Department of Transportation (DOT) to transfer ownership of all roads that are one half mile or less to the respective counties by December 31, 2028. The counties receiving these roads will be responsible for their maintenance, ensuring they meet state highway maintenance standards and remain in good repair. Additionally, the DOT is required to transfer sufficient funds to the counties to assist with the maintenance of these newly acquired roads.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 12-28-2740 by removing the requirement that at least twenty-five percent of a county's apportionment of "C" funds must be spent on the state highway system for construction, improvements, and maintenance. This change allows for greater flexibility in how counties can allocate their funds, enabling them to use up to seventy-five percent of "C" construction funds for local road projects and other related activities without the previous restrictions. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/15/2026: 57-5-200, 12-28-2740
Latest Version: 57-5-200, 12-28-2740