The proposed bill, known as the "Sentencing Enhancements for Crimes Against Minors Act," aims to strengthen penalties for individuals convicted of crimes against minors in South Carolina. It introduces a new Article 22 to Chapter 3, Title 16 of the South Carolina Code, which defines "crimes against a minor" and establishes mandatory additional terms of imprisonment based on the age of the victim and the nature of the offense. For instance, if the victim is aged twelve to eighteen, a misdemeanor offense would incur an additional year of imprisonment, while a felony would result in an additional five years. For victims aged eleven or younger, the penalties increase to two years for misdemeanors and ten years for felonies. Repeat offenders face double the mandatory additional term, and these terms cannot be suspended or reduced through parole or probation.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals convicted of crimes against minors cannot evade criminal responsibility through a verdict or plea of not guilty by reason of insanity. This means that claims of insanity or diminished mental capacity will not affect the imposition of the additional prison terms or alter the overall sentence. The legislation emphasizes the importance of protecting minors and ensuring that offenders serve their full sentences, while still allowing for mental health treatment during incarceration. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval and will apply to offenses committed thereafter.