The bill H. 5271 aims to amend Section 43-5-15 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to applications for public aid and assistance. The proposed amendment mandates that the Department of Social Services must verify the citizenship status and eligibility of applicants before approving any applications for assistance. Specifically, it stipulates that the department cannot approve an application without confirming that the applicant is a United States citizen and meets the eligibility criteria for the requested benefits, unless federal law dictates otherwise.

This legislative change emphasizes the importance of ensuring that public assistance is provided only to eligible citizens, thereby tightening the verification process for applicants. The bill is currently under consideration in the House Committee on Ways and Means and will take effect upon receiving approval from the Governor.

Statutes affected:
02/26/2026: 43-5-15
Latest Version: 43-5-15