South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

South Carolina House Bill H5331

Introduced
3/5/26  

Caption

A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2740, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF GASOLINE USER FEES AMONG COUNTIES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF THE GASOLINE USER FEE AND TO DELETE A PROVISION REQUIRING A PERCENTAGE OF "C" FUNDS BE EXPENDED ON THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM.

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to increase the total funds available for the upkeep and development of highways, thus benefiting local economies by improving transportation networks. The funds would be distributed among counties based on three key ratios: land area, population, and rural road mileage. This equitable distribution aims to ensure that all counties receive appropriate funding based on their specific needs and conditions, maximizing the benefits of the increased user fee.

Summary

House Bill 5331 seeks to amend Section 12-28-2740 of the South Carolina Code of Laws by increasing the gasoline user fee and altering the distribution of these funds among counties. The proposed changes include an increment of the user fee, which will bolster revenue allocated to various transportation needs, specifically those concerning maintenance and improvements of the state highway system. The bill aims to address the infrastructure funding shortfall that many counties face and promote better road conditions across the state.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding H5331 could arise from the implications of altering existing funding distributions. Some stakeholders may argue that increasing the gasoline user fee might disproportionately affect lower-income individuals who rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Additionally, the changes in how funds are allocated could lead to disputes among counties regarding fairness and adequacy of the funding received for road projects. Some might also express concerns about the long-term sustainability of relying on user fees for transportation funding, especially as vehicle fuel efficiency improves and electric vehicles become more prevalent.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SC H4971

Department of Transportation

SC H3832

Film incentives

SC H5637

Perpetual Care Cemetery Care and Maintenance Trust Funds

SC H4457

Insurer liquidation

SC H3853

Redevelopment fees

SC H5140

Regulation of Notarial Fees

SC H4142

Tort Claims Act, limits increased

SC H3190

Notary fees

SC H5243

Credit against withholding

SC H5071

Department of Transportation

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