Bill > S0143

This bill amends South Carolina law to expand protections for individuals in dating relationships by modifying two key sections of the state's domestic abuse statutes. Specifically, the bill updates the definition of "household member" to explicitly include persons who are currently or have previously been in a dating relationship, and clarifies what constitutes a dating relationship by outlining factors such as relationship length, nature of interaction, frequency of contact, and time since termination. Additionally, the bill broadens who can file a petition for an order of protection on behalf of minors, allowing not just household members but also parents, guardians, legal counsel, or other appropriate adults to seek protection for minors in their household. The changes aim to provide more comprehensive legal protection for individuals experiencing abuse, recognizing that domestic violence can occur in various types of relationships beyond marriage or cohabitation. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor, potentially offering expanded legal recourse for victims of domestic abuse who may not have previously been covered under existing statutes.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=143&session=126&summary=B