summary
Introduced
02/18/2026
02/18/2026
In Committee
02/18/2026
02/18/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
126th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Section 16-17-520, Relating To Disturbances Of Religious Worship, So As To Further Define Unlawful Conduct For Purposes Of The Offense Of Disturbing Religious Worship, And To Increase The Penalty For A Violation To A Felony.
AI Summary
This bill amends South Carolina law to further define and increase penalties for disturbing religious worship, making it a felony offense. Previously, disturbing religious worship was a misdemeanor, but this bill expands the definition of unlawful conduct to include wilfully and maliciously disturbing or interrupting religious gatherings, whether in person or through virtual means like video conferences, at a tax-exempt place of worship, even if the disturbance occurs on the property but not within the immediate assembly area. The bill also increases the penalty for a violation from a fine of up to one hundred dollars or imprisonment of up to one year to a felony punishable by a fine of up to five years.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Referred to Committee on Judiciary (on 02/18/2026)
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0934&session=126&summary=B |
| BillText | https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/prever/934_20260218.htm |
Loading...