Bill > H4001

This bill amends South Carolina's existing liquor sales law to allow local governing bodies to authorize the sale of alcoholic liquors on Sundays under specific conditions. Currently, selling alcohol on Sundays is generally prohibited, but the bill introduces a process for counties and municipalities to hold referendums to permit Sunday alcohol sales between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. To do so, either at least 10% of qualified voters must petition for a referendum or the local governing body can call for one by ordinance. If a majority of voters approve, the South Carolina Department of Revenue can issue a permit to licensed retail dealers, which requires a $3,000 annual fee (with some potential fee waivers). The referendum can only be held once every 48 months in a given county or municipality, and if a municipality spans multiple counties, it can conduct its own referendum to authorize sales in parts of the municipality not covered by a county referendum. Violations of the Sunday sales restrictions can result in escalating fines and potential imprisonment, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses. The bill would take effect upon the Governor's approval.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4001&session=126&summary=B