Bill > H3792

This bill amends Act 106 of 2021 regarding the Clarendon County School District, making several key changes to how school board elections are conducted and how the district manages its finances. The bill modifies the election process for school board trustees, specifying a precise filing period in August and mandating that election results be determined using a nonpartisan plurality method with potential runoffs. It also adjusts the board's responsibilities, requiring them to submit an annual budget to the Clarendon County Council for approval, starting in the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The budget must be detailed, including line-item breakdowns and salary information for administrators. Additionally, the bill grants the school district fiscal autonomy beginning in 2024, allowing the board to impose an annual tax levy with some restrictions, such as a maximum two-mill increase per year that would require voter approval in a referendum if it exceeds that limit. The bill also clarifies that board trustees will elect their own chairman and officers, and outlines various powers and duties of the board, including employing a superintendent, establishing administrative departments, and adopting school district policies. The changes aim to provide more structured governance and financial oversight for the Clarendon County School District.

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3792&session=126&summary=B