South Carolina House Bill H3248

South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25
• Refer: 1/14/25

Caption

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-116-10; SECTION 59-116-20; SECTION 59-116-30; SECTION 59-116-80; AND SECTION 59-116-120, ALL RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT AND CONDUCT OF CAMPUS SECURITY DEPARTMENTS BY PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE GOVERNOR'S SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS, THE GOVERNOR'S SCHOOL FOR AGRICULTURE AT JOHN DE LA HOWE, AND THE GOVERNOR'S SCHOOL FOR ARTS AND HUMANITIES AMONG THE INSTITUTIONS THAT MAY ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN SUCH CAMPUS SECURITY DEPARTMENTS.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would directly modify existing statutes that govern the establishment of campus security departments. It would empower the boards of trustees of these Governor's Schools not only to create their own safety and security departments but also to appoint campus police officers with law enforcement capabilities. This change aims to address safety concerns on campuses frequented by students and faculty, ensuring that they have access to adequate police protection similar to that available at traditional colleges and universities in the state.

Summary

House Bill 3248 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by expanding the definition of institutions that can establish and conduct campus security departments to include the Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics, the Governor’s School for Agriculture at John de la Howe, and the Governor’s School for Arts and Humanities. The bill seeks to align these schools with other higher education institutions in terms of having dedicated security personnel, thereby enhancing safety protocols and law enforcement on their campuses.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the appropriateness of granting law enforcement powers to campus security at these specialized schools. Concerns could be raised about the potential for unnecessary policing and the implications of law enforcement presence in educational environments, particularly given the unique nature of Governor's Schools, which focus on advanced and specialized education. Advocates argue that enhancing security at these institutions is necessary for fostering a safe environment for all students, while critics may worry about the potential misuse of such authority.