Bill > H4767

This bill, titled the "Physician Noncompete Contract Prohibition Act," aims to protect patient choice by prohibiting noncompete clauses in contracts with physicians in South Carolina. It declares that any contract clause preventing a physician from practicing medicine in a certain area, continuing to treat existing patients at their request, or establishing new patient relationships after leaving an employer is void and against public policy. While generally prohibiting these restrictions, the bill allows employers to recoup certain expenses like relocation costs, signing bonuses, or recruitment expenses if the physician has worked for less than three years, provided these costs are clearly outlined in the initial contract. It also permits employers to protect legitimate business interests such as trade secrets and confidential information. The bill specifies that these new rules apply to contracts signed or renewed on or after the act's effective date.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4767&session=126&summary=B