Statehouse Dispatch: Feb. 2, 2026 – ACLU of South Carolina

When we can, we highlight good ideas in the Statehouse. They do exist! Here are two bills that have a chance of passing — if we speak up and let lawmakers know we support them.

Senate Bill 385 would protect the wellness of pregnant people when they enter the carceral system. Under this bill, if a person informs medical staff upon entering a jail or prison that they are pregnant and then test positive on a pregnancy test, they would be eligible for release on bail for the duration of the pregnancy and 12 weeks after the birth of a child. Pregnant people would only be eligible if they are deemed not to be a threat to themselves or others.

This bill currently has one sponsor, Sen. Tameika Isaac Devine of Richland County. One way to improve a bill’s likelihood of passing is to find more cosponsors. Look up your state senator using the Find Your Legislators page and let them know you support S. 385.

Another bill in need of more co-sponsors is Senate Bill 16, which would stop the state from committing children to the Department of Juvenile Justice for “status offenses,” or behaviors that are only illegal because of someone’s status as a minor. Examples of status offenses include truancy and delinquency.

Before committing a child to DJJ for incorrigibility, parents or guardians would have to show they have tried counseling first. This bill would make several positive changes to ensure children are given a chance at rehabilitation rather than confinement or punishment.