Bill > H3040

This bill amends South Carolina's existing law on unlawfully discharging firearms, expanding the list of prohibited locations to include various public spaces like schools, churches, shopping areas, movie theaters, parking lots, and other gathering places with three or more people. The bill maintains the existing penalties of up to $1,000 in fines and/or up to 10 years in prison for discharging a firearm at dwellings, buildings, structures, vehicles, or other occupied conveyances. The key change is in subsection (C), which introduces a mandatory life imprisonment without parole sentence for anyone who causes bodily injury during such an offense, unless the action would otherwise qualify for a murder charge. This legislation aims to enhance criminal penalties for drive-by shootings and other incidents involving unlawful firearm discharge that result in physical harm, with the goal of deterring such dangerous actions and protecting public safety. The bill will take effect immediately upon the Governor's approval.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3040&session=126&summary=B