Bill > H4650

This bill amends South Carolina's custodial interference law by expanding the age of children protected under the statute from sixteen to eighteen years old. The bill defines custodial interference as several specific actions, including taking or transporting a child away from a legal custodian with the intent to conceal the child, refuse to return the child as required by a court custody or visitation order, or retain the child beyond approved visitation time without cause or communication. The legislation establishes varying levels of criminal penalties depending on the circumstances: a standard violation could result in a felony conviction with up to five years imprisonment, while returning the child within three days reduces the charge to a misdemeanor with up to three years imprisonment. If the child is taken using physical force or threats, the offense becomes a more serious felony with potential imprisonment of up to ten years. Additionally, the person who commits custodial interference may be required to pay the legal custodian's travel expenses, attorney's fees, and other related costs. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval and does not alter any pending legal actions or rights that existed prior to its implementation.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4650&session=126&summary=B