The bill S. 1018 aims to amend various sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws concerning scholarship programs, specifically the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship Program and the LIFE Scholarship. It introduces the Classic Learning Test (CLT) as an approved assessment for receiving scholarships, alongside the existing SAT and ACT scores. The amendments to Section 59-104-20 outline new eligibility criteria for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship, which now includes a minimum score of 1200 on the SAT or equivalent ACT/CLT score, and a cumulative GPA requirement. Additionally, the bill modifies the qualifications for the LIFE Scholarship in Section 59-149-50 to incorporate ACT and CLT scores, ensuring that students can qualify based on these assessments.

Furthermore, the bill updates the definition of "talented and qualified resident" in Section 59-26-20 to include students who achieve certain scores on the ACT and CLT, thereby broadening the criteria for scholarship eligibility. The proposed changes are designed to enhance access to scholarship opportunities for South Carolina students and to ensure that the assessment methods reflect a wider range of academic achievements. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
03/17/2026: 59-104-20, 59-149-50, 59-26-20
Latest Version: 59-104-20, 59-149-50, 59-26-20