Senate approves amendment toughening penalties on prostitution purchasers
March 25, 2025 | Standing, Senate, Committees, Legislative, South Carolina
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In a significant session on March 25, 2025, the South Carolina Senate made strides in addressing issues related to prostitution and the management of abandoned boats in state waterways.
One of the key discussions centered around Senate Bill 235, which aims to toughen penalties for individuals purchasing sex in South Carolina. Senator Kimbrell from Spartanburg introduced Amendment 1A, which was adopted after a thorough debate. This amendment seeks to revert to existing penalties for prostitution while increasing penalties for those soliciting sex. Under the new structure, first and second offenses will remain misdemeanors, but a third offense will escalate to a felony. This change is intended to align South Carolina's laws with neighboring states, particularly North Carolina, which is set to implement stricter measures this summer. Senator Kimbrell highlighted the urgency of this amendment, citing alarming statistics of solicitation in counties like York and Spartanburg, and emphasized the need to deter potential offenders from crossing state lines to exploit vulnerabilities in South Carolina's laws.
In addition to the discussions on prostitution, the Senate also addressed environmental concerns through Senate Bill 367, which focuses on the removal of abandoned and derelict boats from state waterways. The committee amendment clarifies definitions related to abandoned boats, ensuring that law enforcement and private sectors have clear guidelines for identifying and managing these vessels. The amendment removes vague terms that could lead to confusion, thereby streamlining the process for addressing derelict boats that pose hazards to the environment and public safety.
Both bills reflect the Senate's commitment to enhancing public safety and environmental stewardship in South Carolina. As these measures progress, they are expected to have a direct impact on community safety and the preservation of local waterways. The Senate's actions today signal a proactive approach to pressing issues that affect residents across the state.
One of the key discussions centered around Senate Bill 235, which aims to toughen penalties for individuals purchasing sex in South Carolina. Senator Kimbrell from Spartanburg introduced Amendment 1A, which was adopted after a thorough debate. This amendment seeks to revert to existing penalties for prostitution while increasing penalties for those soliciting sex. Under the new structure, first and second offenses will remain misdemeanors, but a third offense will escalate to a felony. This change is intended to align South Carolina's laws with neighboring states, particularly North Carolina, which is set to implement stricter measures this summer. Senator Kimbrell highlighted the urgency of this amendment, citing alarming statistics of solicitation in counties like York and Spartanburg, and emphasized the need to deter potential offenders from crossing state lines to exploit vulnerabilities in South Carolina's laws.
In addition to the discussions on prostitution, the Senate also addressed environmental concerns through Senate Bill 367, which focuses on the removal of abandoned and derelict boats from state waterways. The committee amendment clarifies definitions related to abandoned boats, ensuring that law enforcement and private sectors have clear guidelines for identifying and managing these vessels. The amendment removes vague terms that could lead to confusion, thereby streamlining the process for addressing derelict boats that pose hazards to the environment and public safety.
Both bills reflect the Senate's commitment to enhancing public safety and environmental stewardship in South Carolina. As these measures progress, they are expected to have a direct impact on community safety and the preservation of local waterways. The Senate's actions today signal a proactive approach to pressing issues that affect residents across the state.
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