Bill > S0753

This bill amends South Carolina law to update the qualifications for becoming a county coroner, introducing more stringent requirements and a new background check process. The bill maintains existing basic qualifications such as being a U.S. citizen, county resident, registered voter, at least 21 years old, and having a high school diploma, while adding a new requirement that candidates must be fingerprinted and undergo a criminal background check through the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Candidates must file the background check results with their political party's county executive committee or county election commission. The bill also expands the professional qualifications for coroners, allowing candidates to qualify through various pathways including death investigation experience, academic degrees in relevant fields, law enforcement certification, forensic science training, medical doctorate, or nursing degree. Additionally, the bill mandates that first-term coroners complete a basic training session through the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy within a year of election and requires annual in-service training. A newly established Coroners Training Advisory Committee will oversee coroner qualifications, certification, and potential performance reviews, with the power to recommend sanctions or suspension. The bill takes effect upon the Governor's approval, aiming to professionalize and standardize coroner qualifications across South Carolina counties.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0753&session=126&summary=B