The bill H. 5350 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the South Carolina General Assembly to recognize the significant issue of child abuse and neglect in the state. It declares April 1, 2026, as "Children's Advocacy Center Day" in South Carolina. The resolution highlights the critical role of Children's Advocacy Centers, which served over 14,000 child victims of abuse in 2025, marking a 71% increase since 2016. It emphasizes the various forms of maltreatment faced by children, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, and psychological maltreatment, and acknowledges the efforts of these centers in providing advocacy and support services.
The resolution calls for the General Assembly to take a moment to reflect on the growing problem of child abuse and its impact on society. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of combating child maltreatment and recognizes the valuable work done by Children's Advocacy Centers in South Carolina. Additionally, a copy of the resolution will be presented to Thomas Knapp, the president and CEO of the South Carolina Network of Children's Advocacy Centers, to honor their contributions to the cause.