Bill > S0687

This bill requires public entities in South Carolina to include provisions in contracts for public works projects mandating that any iron or steel products permanently incorporated into the project must be produced in the United States. The bill defines key terms such as "produced in the United States" (meaning all manufacturing processes except final steel refining occur within the U.S.) and "iron or steel product" (materials composed primarily of iron or steel). There are several exceptions to this requirement: if U.S.-produced iron or steel products are not available in sufficient quantity or quality, would increase project costs by more than 25%, or would be inconsistent with public interest. The bill also allows minimal use of foreign steel and iron materials (up to 0.1% of total project steel/iron costs or $2,500) and permits foreign materials that comprise 5% or less of a domestically produced product. Electrical components are exempt from these requirements, and the bill must be applied consistently with international agreements. The State Fiscal Accountability Authority will develop implementation guidelines, and the law does not apply to Department of Transportation contracts already subject to federal Buy America requirements. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0687&session=126&summary=B