Bill > H4623

This bill amends South Carolina law to restrict the Department of Social Services and child-placing agencies from requiring foster parents to disclose specific details about firearms in their homes. The legislation prohibits these agencies from mandating that foster parents reveal the types of firearms they own or notify the agencies about any changes in their firearm ownership. Additionally, if an agency accidentally obtains information about firearms in a foster parent's home, they are only permitted to use that information to confirm the presence of firearms, not for any other purpose. The bill establishes a civil penalty of up to $5,000 for agencies that improperly use or disclose such information, with the attorney general empowered to pursue legal action. Furthermore, the bill classifies information about firearms in foster parents' homes as confidential and exempt from Freedom of Information Act disclosure requirements. The new law would take effect immediately upon the Governor's approval, potentially providing greater privacy protections for foster parents regarding their firearm ownership.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4623&session=126&summary=B