Bill S. 979 amends Section 4-37-30 of the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance local funding for transportation projects through the imposition of sales and use taxes or tolls. The amendments empower county governing bodies to enact ordinances for a sales and use tax that can be allocated for various projects, including greenways, necessary infrastructure, and drainage facility maintenance aimed at flood prevention. The bill also introduces optional ballot language for counties to seek voter approval for extending the tax term or for replacement purposes, ensuring transparency and public involvement in the decision-making process.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for conducting referendums related to the imposition of tolls, including requirements for public hearings and notice publication. It specifies that tolls can be imposed for a maximum of twenty-five years, with provisions for the use of excess revenues. The governing body is tasked with prioritizing net proceeds from tolls for project completion or general fund allocation for infrastructure. The bill also allows for the issuance of toll revenue bonds to finance transportation facilities and clarifies that it serves as an alternative financing method for highway and bridge projects without affecting existing municipal or county funding. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
03/05/2026: 4-37-30
Latest Version: 4-37-30