At the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police, our mission goes beyond advocacy—it is a deep commitment to the well-being of every law enforcement officer who stands on the front lines to protect our communities. These brave men and women deserve more than fair treatment; they deserve unwavering support, secure futures, and the peace of mind that their rights are protected. Our legislative priorities are more than just policies—they are the foundation of a safer, stronger future for all those who wear the badge.
We are the only police organization in South Carolina with lobbyists actively working at the Statehouse in Columbia and in Washington, D.C. Our presence in these legislative halls ensures that the voices of law enforcement professionals are heard, their rights defended, and their protection prioritized at every level of government.
IN SOUTH CAROLINA
RETURN TO WORK LEGISLATION
The law enforcement profession is facing a crisis—a shortage of qualified candidates that is leaving agencies stretched thin and communities vulnerable. Our retired officers possess invaluable experience and knowledge that our communities desperately need. Allowing them to return to work without unnecessary restrictions will provide immediate relief to agencies struggling to recruit and retain qualified personnel. We are fighting for legislation that grants law enforcement retirees the same opportunities that other professions, like teaching, enjoy. This is not just about fairness—it’s about strengthening our forces with the experienced officers our communities rely on to stay safe.
PENSION REFORM
The future of law enforcement depends on our ability to recruit new officers, but proposed changes to the pension system threaten to make this even more difficult. The expected reforms may not affect current officers, but they strike at the heart of what future officers will depend on: a secure retirement after years of service and sacrifice. Our pension system is more than just a benefit—it includes essential disability protections that reflect the unique dangers officers face every day. Weakening these protections and shifting to a defined contribution plan will not only diminish the security new officers need but also severely undermine our efforts to recruit the next generation of law enforcement professionals. We will stand firm in defending our pension system, protecting the benefits and safeguards that officers deserve.
RETIREE PENSION COST OF LIVING ALLOWANCE INCREASES
Our retirees have given the best years of their lives in service to our communities, often at great personal sacrifice. After years of dedication and selflessness, they deserve financial security that honors their commitment. Unfortunately, without regular Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) increases, the pensions they rely on are slowly eroded by inflation. This neglect threatens their ability to live comfortably and with dignity in retirement. We are fighting for legislation that guarantees consistent COLA adjustments, ensuring that our retired officers can keep pace with rising living costs and maintain the stability they earned through years of protecting and serving. Failing to make these adjustments is a disservice to those who have already given so much.
FARGO’S AND HYCO’S LAW
K9 officers are more than just animals—they are trusted partners and fellow officers who serve alongside us in some of the most dangerous situations. Their loyalty and bravery are unmatched, and their contributions to public safety are invaluable. Sadly, the threats they face are as real as those encountered by any human officer. Since September 2023 alone, three K9 officers—Rico, Coba, and Mikka—have been tragically killed by gunfire in the line of duty. These heartbreaking losses underscore the urgent need to strengthen penalties for those who harm or kill police animals. FARGO’S and HYCO’S LAW aims to ensure that anyone who injures or kills a K9 officer faces severe consequences, reflecting the irreplaceable role these brave animals play in keeping our officers and communities safe. Their protection is our priority, and we will not rest until justice for K9 officers is enshrined in law.
HALO PROTECTION
In today’s increasingly tense environment, officers are often forced to perform their duties while being surrounded by bystanders, which can quickly escalate into dangerous confrontations. Officers need space to act without interference, ensuring they can focus on their duties without fear of being obstructed or distracted by those in close proximity. The HALO Bill will establish a 25-foot buffer around officers engaged in official duties, providing them the necessary space to safely perform their jobs while also preventing bystanders from becoming unintentionally involved in potentially hazardous situations. This buffer zone is not just about officer safety—it’s about safeguarding the public as well. By reducing interference, we can prevent unnecessary confrontations and ensure a safer environment for everyone involved.
LAW ENFORCEMENT BILL OF RIGHTS
Every day, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect our communities, often facing intense scrutiny and the potential for life-altering accusations. The stakes are incredibly high for those who dedicate themselves to this profession, and they deserve clear legal protections that ensure fairness, due process, and justice. The Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights is more than just legislation—it is a vital safeguard for officers during investigations and disciplinary actions, ensuring they are not unfairly targeted or subjected to unjust scrutiny. Modeled after successful laws in other states, this bill will provide the protections our officers need when they are most vulnerable, allowing them to serve with the confidence that their rights will be defended. At SCFOP, we believe it is only right that those who risk everything for the safety of others have their own rights secured.
BRADY-GIGLIO DUE PROCESS LEGISLATION
An officer’s credibility is a cornerstone of their career, and when it is called into question, the consequences can be devastating. Too often, officers find their reputations tarnished and their careers derailed without the opportunity for fair and adequate defense. This is not just an attack on the individual officer—it undermines the very integrity of the justice system itself. We are fighting for legislation that guarantees due process for officers facing Brady-Giglio claims, ensuring that they are not unjustly punished without proper procedural protections. This legislation is essential to safeguarding the rights of officers while maintaining the fairness and balance our justice system depends on. Every officer deserves the right to defend their credibility, and we will not stop until these protections are firmly in place.
MANDATORY CARDIAC SCREENING FOR OFFICERS
Law enforcement is a physically demanding profession, where officers regularly face high-stress situations that push their bodies to the limit. Tragically, too many officers have suffered life-threatening or even fatal cardiac events while on duty due to undiagnosed heart conditions. These are not isolated incidents—they are preventable tragedies. We are advocating for legislation that mandates periodic cardiac screenings for officers, ensuring that heart conditions are detected early before they become deadly. This is more than just a preventative health measure; it is a necessary safeguard to save lives and keep our officers healthy and capable of serving their communities. By prioritizing the health and safety of our officers, we can prevent unnecessary loss and protect those who protect us.
NON-FATAL STRANGULATION LAW
Non-fatal strangulation is one of the most dangerous forms of assault, often leaving little visible evidence but causing severe internal injuries, long-term health risks, and even death. Shockingly, South Carolina remains the last state without a specific law addressing this serious crime. The urgency for such legislation cannot be overstated—research shows that offenders who commit non-fatal strangulation are far more likely to escalate their violence, often leading to future homicides. Even more alarming is the increased risk these offenders pose to law enforcement officers, as they are significantly more likely to assault officers during encounters. Passing a comprehensive non-fatal strangulation law is not just about protecting victims in the immediate sense; it is about preventing future tragedies and safeguarding our officers from known, violent offenders. South Carolina must act now to join the rest of the nation in recognizing the lethal potential of non-fatal strangulation and implement this crucial law.
NATIONALLY
“Social Security Fairness Act” has PASSED!
The FOP strongly supports legislation to restore full Social Security benefits for law enforcement officers by repealing both the “Windfall Elimination Provision” (WEP) and the “Government Pension Offset” (GPO).
Support the “Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act”
The FOP strongly supports legislation to guarantee the right of public employees to bargain collectively with their employers over hours, wages and conditions of employment. Such legislation should mandate that State laws provide minimum collective bargaining rights to their public safety employees while prohibiting strikes and lockouts. States with collective bargaining laws already on the books would be exempt from the Federal statute. Such legislation is unlikely to be introduced in this Congress.
Support H.R. 964, the “Law Enforcement Officers’ Equity Act”
The FOP strongly supports legislation expanding the definition of “law enforcement officer” for salary and retirement benefits to include all Federal law enforcement officers.
Latest Statehouse Report
- Statehouse Report – 01/14/2025
Governor
- Governor of South Carolina is Henry McMaster (R – Richland) since January 24, 2017. His current term ends on January 13, 2027.
- FY26 Executive Budget Book – FINAL WEB VERSION.pdf
General Assembly
The South Carolina Legislature is divided into two parts called bodies (The House of Representatives and the Senate) and combined the bodies form the General Assembly.
House of Representatives
- Speaker of the House is Murrell Smith (R – Sumter) since May 12, 2022
- Speaker Pro Tempore – Tommy Pope (R – York)
- Majority Leader is Davy Hiott (R–Pickens)
- Minority Leader is Todd Rutherford (D– Richland)
- 124 seats
- 2 year terms (next election Tuesday, November 3, 2026)
- Currently there are Republicans (88); Democrats (35); (1 vacancy District 113 – March 25, 2025)
- Qualifications: qualified to vote in state elections; 21 years of age; a resident of the district in which he/she seeks to represent; has not been convicted of or pled guilty to a felony or voter fraud or bribery unless 15 years has elapsed since time was served.
South Carolina Senate
- One major rule change passed. The Senate President and Majority Leader now can sponsor a resolution to remove a chairman from a committee that will go before the Rules Committee and the entire Senate.
- President of the Senate is Thomas Alexander (R – Oconee) since December 6, 2021
- Majority Leader is Shane Massey (R – Edgefield)
- Minority Leader is Brad Hutto (D – Orangeburg)
- 46 senators
- 4 year terms (next election November 7, 2028)
- Currently there are – Republicans (34); Democrats (12) NOTE: 13 new members (9 Republicans/4 Democrats)
- Qualifications: qualified to vote in state elections; 25 years of age; a resident of the district in which he/she seeks to represent; has not been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a felony or voter fraud or bribery unless 15 years has elapsed since time was served.
126th Session of the South Carolina General Assembly – 1st Regular Session (2025)
- Members of the bodies convene on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 (second Tuesday in January)
- This is the first year of a two-year session
- Legislation not enacted during the 2025 session will hold its place in the legislative process and carry over to the 2026 session
- The crossover deadline is April 10th (rule 5.12) for legislation to pass from one chamber to the other; after this date a 2/3 vote of the receiving chamber is required to consider a bill
- Statutory Sine Die date – Thursday, May 8, 2025 (second Thursday in May) unless an extension is agreed to by a two-thirds vote of both bodies. Normally, the House and Senate meet in statewide session on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and for local matters on Friday. The Governor may call the General Assembly into a special session if necessary, beyond the regular session.
SCFOP House Legislation
Bill # Sponsor(s) Position Description Status H.3016 Rep. Rutherford Monitor Interrogation of Child Who Violated Criminal Law or Ordinance Referred to Judiciary H.3034 Reps. Collins and Wooten Priority Police Animals – Fargo, Hyco, Rico, Coba, Wick and Mikka’s Law Referred to Judiciary H.3052 Reps. Pope and Wooten Support Enhanced Penalties for Assault on Law Enforcement Officer Referred to Judiciary H.3053 Reps. Pope et. al. Monitor Violent Crimes, Discharging Firearms into Dwellings – Amends Section 16-1-60 Relating to Offenses of Discharging Firearms into Dwellings Referred to Judiciary H.3055 Reps Wooten et. al Monitor Harassment and Stalking – Amends Section 16-3-1700 Related to Establishing Patterns Regarding Harassment, Stalking and Other Penalties Referred to Judiciary H.3068 Rep. Rutherford Monitor Restricts Forfeiture Procedures Referred to Judiciary H.3093 Rep. Moss Support Enhanced Penalties for Assaulting a First Responder or Healthcare Worker Referred to Judiciary H.3124 Reps. Pope et. al. – Creates Penalties for Intentional or Unintentional Exposure to Fentanyl of First Responders Referred to Judiciary H.3126 Rep. Pope Monitor Creation of the South Carolina Department of Law Enforcement and Public Safety Referred to Judiciary H.3127 Rep. Robbins, Wooten and Lawson Support Enhancing penalties for Failure to Stop Referred to Judiciary H.3131 Rep. Rutherford Monitor Disallows Law Enforcement from Purchasing Cell Site Simulator Referred to Judiciary H.3133 Rep. Rutherford Monitor Disallows Law Enforcement from Stopping Vehicles that don’t have License Plate Illumination Referred to Education and Public Works H.3134 Rep. Rutherford Monitor Disallows Law Enforcement from Purchasing Cell Site Simulator Referred to Judiciary H.3139 Rep. Rutherford Monitor Certification of Law Enforcement Officers Referred to Judiciary H.3155 Rep. Rutherford Monitor Automatic License Plate Readers – Adds 23-1-235 to Provide Only Certain Entities May Use LPRs; Provides Where LPRs Can Be Installed; Provides how Information Obtained May be Used Referred to Judiciary H.3159 Rep. Yow Support Allows Retired Officer to Carry a Concealed Weapon Referred to Judiciary H.3170 Rep. Beach Monitor Unlawful to Drive Vehicles with Drivers’ Licenses Not Recognized. Referred to Education and Public Works H.3176 Rep. Davis Support Enhanced Penalties for Failure to Stop and Wilfully Leading to a High Speed Chase Referred to Judiciary H.3258 Reps. Pope et. al. Monitor Requires Department of Education to Install Mobile Panic Alert Systems in All Public Schools Referred to Education and Public Works H.3259 Reps. Pope and Gilliam Support First Responder Automobile Insurance Premiums Referred to Labor, Commerce and Industry H.3261 Reps. Pope and Gilliam Support Workers’ Comp to Include Coverage for PTSD for First Responders Referred to Labor, Commerce and Industry H.3276 Reps. Pope et. al. Monitor South Carolina Hands Free Act Referred to Judiciary H.3281 Reps. McCravy et. al. Support Fallen First Responders Advocate Position Referred to Judiciary H.3283 Rep. Long – CWP on College Campuses – Amends 16-23-420 to Delete Restrictions Place on Holders of CWPs on Carrying Firearms on College Campuses Referred to Judiciary H.3285 Rep. Landing Monitor Education of Law Enforcement Officers or EMS to Include Training Course in Autism Referred to Judiciary H.3288 Rep. J.L. Johnson Monitor Allows Persons who are Subjects of Body Camera Video Data to Receive Footage by Simple Request. Referred to Judiciary H.3289 Rep. J.L. Johnson Monitor Include 911 Operators as “First Responders” Referred to Ways and Means H.3392 Rep. Moss Support Enhanced Penalties for Assaulting a Healthcare Worker or Emergency Response Employee Referred to Judiciary H.3295 Rep. Hardy Support Release of Vehicle Location Information to Law Enforcement Agency in Emergency Situations. Referred to Judiciary H.3315 Rep. Collins Support Authorize Correctional Officers to Serve Warrants without Magistrate Endorsing the Warrant. Referred to Judiciary H.3363 Rep. B. Newton, et.al. Support Catawba Nation to Become An Employer Under PEBA. Referred To Ways and Means H.3410 Rep. Hardee Support Property (Vehicle) Tax Exemption for Former First Responders Referred To Ways and Means H.3416 Rep. Kilmartin Support Retirement income Tax Deduction for First Responders Referred To Ways and Means H.3421 Rep. Long Monitor Retirement Investment Commission Cannot Invest Funds with China Referred To Ways and Means H.3434 Rep. Oremus No Stance Earnings Limitation Elimination for School Bus Drivers Referred To Ways and Means H.3437 Reps. Pope et. al. Priority Return to Work (Critical Need) for Law Enforcement Referred To Ways and Means H.3460 Rep. Wooten Support Disclosure of Electronic Communication to Law Enforcement, Solicitors and Attorney General Referred to Judiciary H.3461 Rep Lawson Support Excludes First Responder Wages from SC Gross Income Referred To Ways and Means H.3500 Rep. Rutherford No Stance Income Tax Deductions Referred To Ways and Means H.3522 Reps. Caskey et. al. Priority Defines Strangulation Referred to Judiciary H.3535 Reps. Wooten et. al. Priority Helping Alleviate Lawful Obstruction (HALO) Act Referred to Judiciary H.3536 Rep. Rep. Taylor No Stance South Carolina Hands Free Act Referred to Judiciary H.3542 Rep. Williams Priority Lifting the 10,000 limitation in both the PORS and SCRS if an individual retires before January 2, 2026 Referred To Ways and Means H.3551 Rep. B. Newton and Gilliam No Stance Income Tax Exemption for Managers and Clerks of Elections Referred To Ways and Means H.3650 Reps. G.M. Smith et. al. Monitor Discharging Firearms into Dwellings and other Structures – amends 16-1-60 Relating to Violent crime Offense to Include the Offense of Discharging Firearms at or into a Dwelling, House, other Building Structure, Vehicle, Aircraft, Watercraft, etc. Referred To Judiciary SCFOP Senate Legislation
Bill # Sponsor(s) Position Description Status S.8 Senator Jackson Monitor Training Council to Set Policies and Procedures for Vehicle Pursuits Referred To Judiciary S.64 Senator Hembree Priority Retirement Income Tax Deduction for First Responders Referred To Finance S.71 Senator Hembree Support Enhanced Penalties for Convictions for Assault and Battery Against a Law Enforcement Officer During the Performance of their Official Duties Referred to Judiciary S.74 Senator Hembree Support Disclosure of Electronic Communications and Other Records Referred to Judiciary S.90 Senator Young Monitor Hands Free Act Referred To Transportation S.102 Senators Gambrell and Massey No Stance Millage Rate Increase Limitations Referred To Finance S.107 Senator Rice Monitor Retirement Earnings Limitation – the Earnings Limitation is Equal to the Annual Retirement Earnings Test Exempt Lower Amount as Set by the Social Security Administration, the Amount of Which for 2024 was $22,320. Referred To Finance S.111 Senator Rice Support Enhanced Penalties for Vehicle Pursuit Referred To Transportation S.118 Senator Adams Support Constables Not Subject to Earnings Limitation Referred To Finance S.119 Senator Adams Support Lifts the 10,000 Earnings Limitation in Both the PORS and SCRS if an Individual is Separated from Employment for 90 Days Referred To Finance S.126 Senator Johnson Monitor Relating to Definitions, so as to Include Additional Information in the Definition of “Personal Contact Information” and to Define “Disclosed Records” Referred to Judiciary S.127 Senator Johnson Support Adds Catawba Nation to PORS Referred To Finance S.142 Senator Devine Monitor CJIS to Develop Use of Force Model Policy, Mandate Use of Force Training Through CJA, LE Agency That Does Not Implement Use of Force Policy Loses Qualified Immunity. A Department That Does Not Adopt an Approved Use of Force Policy is Not Subject to Qualified Immunity for Any Incident that Occurs Which Would be Addressed by the Model Use of Force Policy. Referred To Judiciary S.145 Senator Devine Monitor Constitutional Carry/Second Amendment Preservation Act Repeal Referred To Judiciary S.149 Senator Devine Monitor Juvenile Justice Reform Act Referred To Judiciary S.175 Senator Zell Priority Helping Alleviate Lawful Obstruction (HALO) Act Referred To Judiciary
