A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2956 SO AS TO PROVIDE MINIMUM AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR PERSONS CONVICTED OF CERTAIN DRIVING WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS VIOLATIONS.
Summary
H4301 would add a new section to the South Carolina Code requiring certain drivers convicted of DUI offenses to maintain a higher level of automobile liability insurance in order to operate a motor vehicle in the state. The requirement applies to persons convicted under Sections 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2933, which cover driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and related offenses. For one year after conviction, the driver would have to carry minimum coverage of $250,000 for bodily injury to one person, $500,000 for bodily injury to two or more persons, and $250,000 for property damage in a single accident.
The bill also requires the insurance carrier to file proof of financial responsibility with the Department of Motor Vehicles. If enacted, it would create a new statutory insurance condition tied specifically to DUI convictions, adding to the state’s motor vehicle and licensing framework and potentially affecting convicted drivers’ ability to lawfully drive and obtain affordable coverage.
Impact
This bill would amend Title 56 of the South Carolina Code by adding Section 56-5-2956, creating a new post-conviction insurance requirement for DUI offenders. It would not change the underlying DUI offenses themselves, but it would impose a separate civil/administrative condition on driving privileges by requiring enhanced liability coverage for one year and DMV-filed proof of insurance. The practical effect would fall on convicted drivers, insurers, and the Department of Motor Vehicles, with likely consequences for reinstatement or continued lawful operation of a vehicle after a qualifying conviction.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate, amendment activity, or partisan division in the available record. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears to reflect a public-safety approach aimed at ensuring higher financial responsibility from drivers convicted of DUI-related offenses. The caption and structure suggest a straightforward regulatory proposal rather than a broad policy overhaul.
Contention
The main likely point of contention is whether the proposed insurance minimums are proportionate and workable for people convicted of DUI offenses. Supporters would likely argue that higher coverage protects the public from losses caused by impaired drivers and encourages responsibility after conviction. Opponents could argue that the required limits are unusually high, may be difficult or expensive to obtain, and could function as a barrier to driving or reintegration for affected individuals. Another possible issue is administrative enforcement, since the bill places proof-filing responsibility on the insurance carrier and the DMV would need to track compliance.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage; minimum required under motor vehicle liability policies for a individual convicted of driving under the influence or reckless driving; increase
Revises personal injury protection coverage for basic automobile insurance policies from $15,000 to $20,000 and requires $50,000 minimum personal injury protection coverage for standard automobile liability insurance policies.