Ask South Carolina: The Legislative Process
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Posted By: Hija Chang on January 20, 2026 Note: This is a simplified version of the South Carolina Legislative Process for childhood education purposes. A more detailed version can be viewed here. First Reading The First Reading is often referred to as the "Introduction" since this is the beginning of the process of a Bill becoming an Act. Committee Reference Bill is referred to a committee that specializes in whatever subject it covers. Committee Report Once the committee has finishing looking over the bill, it creates a report detailing any recommendations. Second Reading After a period when all the members are allowed to debate or amend the bill, a vote is held to give the Bill second reading and move it forward in the process. Third Reading There must be at least one legislative day between the second and third reading. This is when members can further debate or amend the bill. After the reading, it is signed by the Clerk of the chamber and sent to the other body. Second Chamber The Bill must go through all the previous steps again in the second chamber. Ratification After both bodies have given the Bill three readings and the Clerks have signed, the bill can be ratified. After ratification, the Bill is sent to the Governor. Governor The Governor can then sign the Bill to make it an Act, or if the Bill is not signed by the Governor after five days it will become an Act. Act A Bill that has become an Act has the force of law and can be referred to as statewide legislation. Unless specified, an Act will become effective on the 20th day after the approval by the Governor. The Legislative Process Note: This is a simplified version of the South Carolina Legislative Process for childhood education purposes. A more detailed version can be viewed here. https://www.studentconnection.scstatehouse... The South Carolina Student Connection site is maintained by the Legislative Services Agency . Contact Us. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Hija Chang
Management, See Moss Interactive Bellarmine University class of 2021 Member Since January 2011 |
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