Bill > H3649

This bill establishes a new annual accountability process for South Carolina's two U.S. Senators, requiring them to appear before a joint session of the state's General Assembly each year on March 26th to discuss their congressional activities. The bill creates a special six-member Joint Legislative Committee on the United States Senate (three representatives from each legislative chamber) that will receive the senators' voting records at least 30 days before the annual meeting. During this mandatory appearance, senators must discuss congressional actions, pending legislation, their voting records, and explain how their work relates to South Carolina's interests. The bill also mandates that the senior senator maintain routine contact with the committee's co-chairs, and the committee will periodically poll legislators about pending federal matters. Additionally, the committee must publish an annual report evaluating each senator's performance, specifically noting any actions they believe are inconsistent with the U.S. Constitution. The bill's rationale stems from a constitutional interpretation that senators, despite being popularly elected, still fundamentally represent their state legislature and should be accountable to state representatives. This legislation is set to take effect upon the governor's approval and will begin its annual process in 2026.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3649&session=126&summary=B