Bill > H3486

This Joint Resolution proposes an amendment to the South Carolina Constitution to allow the General Assembly, the state's legislative body, to conduct its annual sessions remotely or virtually under specific emergency circumstances. The key provisions state that if events like war, social unrest, contagious diseases, epidemics, pandemics, natural disasters, or acts of God make it unsafe for lawmakers to gather in person at the state capitol in Columbia, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives can determine that remote or virtual meetings are necessary. This change aims to ensure the continuity of government operations during crises by enabling legislators to continue their work using technology, even if they cannot physically convene. The proposed amendment will be put to a vote of the state's qualified electors at the next general election.