H.3745 would specify that prosecutions for ethics violations can be commenced against non-legislative public officials and employees within four years of these officials or employees leaving office. The bill would also specify prosecutions for lobbying law violations can be commenced against member of the General Assembly or its staff within four years of legislators or legislative employees leaving office or employment.

There is already a four year statute of limitations on these violations, but it doesn’t hurt to specify that lawmakers, other public officials, and public employees cannot cut short their window for prosecution by leaving state office or employment.

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.