The bill H. 5545 aims to enhance the security of election systems in South Carolina by prohibiting state agencies and local governments from acquiring election-related equipment or services from companies owned or controlled by foreign adversaries. It introduces a new section, 7-13-1630, to the South Carolina Code of Laws, defining key terms such as "company," "control," and "foreign adversary." The bill mandates that vendors seeking to provide election-related services must certify under penalty of perjury that they are not owned or controlled by a foreign adversary. Contracts that violate this provision would be voidable, and vendors providing false certifications could face civil penalties and contract termination.

Additionally, the bill allows for the continued use of existing election systems and equipment under contract as of the effective date until the contract expires or until July 1, 2029. The State Election Commission is empowered to grant temporary waivers for continued use if no reasonable alternatives are available and if such use does not compromise election integrity. The bill emphasizes compliance with federal law and requires any waivers to be reported to the Governor and the General Assembly.

Statutes affected:
04/16/2026: 7-13-1630
Latest Version: 7-13-1630