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Five new laws are taking effect across South Carolina on July 1, bringing changes that could impact students, schools, taxpayers and access to services. Here is a summary:
New rules for school grading (read the bill)
South Carolina is changing how public schools assign grades, with a new law requiring that report card scores reflect a student’s actual work. The measure bans districts from requiring teachers to give minimum grades higher than what a student earns. Districts that continue those policies could face a reduction in state funding. It also limits the use of credit and content recovery programs by requiring students to complete all original assignments before retaking a course. The law directs the State Board of Education to review and update the statewide grading policy.
“Smart Heart Act” requires emergency plans in schools (read the bill)
Another law focuses on student safety by requiring every public school to develop a cardiac emergency response plan. Schools must have automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, available on campus and accessible at athletic events, including some off-site locations. The law also requires training for school personnel and coordination with emergency responders. It takes effect now, with full implementation expected in the coming school years.
2-1-1 service shifts to Consumer Affairs (read the bill)
211 Network moving to the SC Dept. of Consumer Affairs: Oversight of South Carolina’s 2-1-1 network, which connects residents to services such as housing, food, and utility assistance, is being transferred to the Department of Consumer Affairs. The change establishes the agency as the statewide coordinator for the service and requires standardized reporting, data collection, and oversight. State officials say the move is intended to improve access to information and strengthen coordination of health and human services.
Changes to taxes and exemptions (read the bill)
A separate law makes several updates to state tax rules. The measure excludes certain government payments tied to next-generation 911 systems from taxable “gross proceeds,” and exempts some nonprofit chamber of commerce events from admissions taxes. It also expands a sales tax exemption for certain computer equipment to include related parties connected to the taxpayer.
Continuing education requirements updated for funeral professionals (read the bill)
Another law updates continuing education requirements for licensed funeral service professionals. Licensees must complete four credit hours annually, including one hour focused on ethics. At least half of those hours must be completed in person, while the rest may be done through remote learning. The law also includes exceptions for certain long-tenured licensees and allows flexibility during emergencies such as natural disasters or pandemics.
Source: Count on 2 News
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