summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
126th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amend Section 26, Article V Of The Constitution Of South Carolina, 1895, Relating To The Appointment Of Magistrates, So As To Provide That They Shall Be Appointed By The Governor By And With The Advice And Consent Of The General Assembly Rather Than By The Advice And Consent Of The Senate; To Provide For A Majority Vote Of Each Chamber Of The General Assembly; To Delete Provisions Providing The General Assembly Shall Provide For Magistrates' Terms Of Office And Their Civil And Criminal Jurisdiction; And To Provide For Terms Of Office Of Magistrates Of Four Years And Until Their Successors Are Appointed And Qualified.
AI Summary
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to change how magistrates are appointed in South Carolina. Currently, magistrates are appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, but the amendment would modify this process to require advice and consent from the entire General Assembly (both the Senate and House of Representatives). The proposed amendment would also standardize magistrates' terms to four years and specify that they serve until their successors are appointed and qualified. Additionally, the amendment would remove language that previously required the General Assembly to specify magistrates' terms of office and jurisdictional details. To become effective, the proposed amendment must be submitted to voters at the next general election, with voters choosing to approve or reject the change by marking "Yes" or "No" on their ballot. If approved by voters, this amendment would alter the constitutional process for selecting and appointing magistrates in South Carolina, broadening the legislative body's role in the appointment process.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Member(s) request name added as sponsor: White (on 01/20/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4716&session=126&summary=B |
| BillText | https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/prever/4716_20251217.htm |
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