South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

South Carolina House Bill H4682

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-23-60, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATES OF COMPLIANCE BY THE LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL, AND INFORMATION TO BE SUBMITTED RELATING TO THE QUALIFICATION OF CANDIDATES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT CERTIFICATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE ALL CANDIDATES FOR CERTIFICATION MUST HOLD A VALID CURRENT DRIVER'S LICENSE FROM ANY JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED STATES.

Impact

The proposed amendments are designed to enhance the vetting process for law enforcement candidates. By requiring a current and valid driver's license, the bill sets a foundational standard that may reduce instances of non-compliance among candidates regarding other aspects of the certification process. Moreover, this change aligns with the objectives of the Law Enforcement Training Council in promoting effective and ethical policing throughout South Carolina.

Summary

House Bill 4682 introduces amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically addressing the qualifications for candidates seeking law enforcement certification. The bill mandates that all candidates must hold a valid driver's license from any jurisdiction in the United States. This requirement aims to streamline the certification process by ensuring that all law enforcement candidates have met a basic criterion essential for their role in public safety.

Contention

Notable discussions surrounding H4682 revolve around the implications of the driver's license requirement. Proponents argue that by upholding a standard that includes valid driving credentials, the bill effectively addresses concerns over candidate character and accountability. In contrast, critics may raise questions about the fairness of excluding candidates who have faced issues with licensing but possess otherwise exemplary qualifications. This tension could drive further legislative dialogue regarding the bill's potential impact on candidate diversity and recruitment within law enforcement agencies.

Companion Bills

SC H4678

Similar To A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-23-60, RELATING TO CERTIFICATES OF COMPLIANCE ISSUED TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL, SO AS TO PROVIDE LAW ENFORCEMENT CANDIDATES MUST HOLD DRIVERS' LICENSES ISSUED BY ANY JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED STATES; TO PROVIDE FINDINGS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; AND TO PROVIDE THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY SHALL REMOVE ANY REQUIREMENT THAT OFFICERS HOLD SOUTH CAROLINA DRIVERS' LICENSES OR RESIDE IN THE STATE AS CONDITIONS OF CERTIFICATION OR EMPLOYMENT.

Previously Filed As

SC H4678

Law enforcement recruitment

SC H3799

Law Enforcement Officer Certificates of Compliance

SC H4681

Sheriff candidate qualifications

SC H3139

Warrant, execution

SC H5136

Fentanyl

SC H3048

Coroner Qualifications

SC H3285

Continuing law enforcement education credits and EMS training

SC H3524

Department of Crime Victim Services Training, Provider Certification, and Statistical Analysis

SC H3557

Candidate filing

SC H4965

Probate judge qualifications

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