South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 45 - STATE ELECTION COMMISSION
South Carolina Code of Regulations (SC Code R.45) – State Election Commission
Purpose:
Chapter 45 outlines the regulations, guidelines, and procedures for conducting elections in South Carolina, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. The regulations provide detailed rules for voter registration, election procedures, the conduct of elections, and the certification of election results.
Key Areas Covered:
Definitions and General Provisions
Definitions of important electoral terms such as “voter,” “election official,” “absentee ballots,” and “election district.”
General provisions to guide all parties involved in the election process, ensuring transparency, fairness, and compliance with state laws.
Voter Registration
Regulations governing the registration of voters in South Carolina, including eligibility criteria (e.g., citizenship, residency, and age).
Procedures for voter registration, both online and by mail.
Maintenance and updating of voter registration rolls and the handling of address changes, name changes, and inactive voters.
Election Procedures
Guidelines for conducting elections at various levels (local, state, and federal elections).
Information on the design and distribution of ballots, the establishment of polling locations, and the assignment of election officials.
Rules for early voting, absentee voting, and voting by mail, including requirements for ballots and procedures for handling absentee ballots.
Provisions for the security and integrity of voting machines, ballot boxes, and other election-related materials.
Election Officials and Polling Places
Criteria for selecting and training election officials, poll workers, and other personnel involved in the election process.
Rules for the establishment and operation of polling places, including accessibility for disabled voters and security measures to prevent fraud or misconduct.
Guidelines for the conduct of election day activities and ensuring that polling locations run smoothly.
Campaign Finance and Electioneering
Regulations surrounding campaign contributions, expenditures, and the reporting of financial transactions by candidates and political committees.
Rules for the conduct of electioneering activities, including the placement of campaign materials, signs, and advertisements near polling locations.
Provisions for enforcing campaign finance laws and penalties for non-compliance.
Voting Procedures and Ballot Counting
Instructions for voters on casting ballots and the handling of various types of ballots (e.g., provisional ballots, absentee ballots, etc.).
The process for counting votes and the certification of election results.
Guidelines for resolving issues with ballots, including disputes over validity and proper marking.
Election Challenges and Disputes
Procedures for challenging election results, including deadlines for filing complaints or disputes.
The role of the State Election Commission in investigating and resolving election-related complaints and discrepancies.
Provisions for recounting votes in close elections or when fraud or errors are suspected.
Reporting and Certification of Election Results
The timeline and process for the reporting of unofficial election results on election night and the official certification process.
Rules regarding the public release of election results and the handling of incomplete or disputed results.
Special Elections and Procedures
Rules governing special elections, such as those for filling vacant offices or addressing referenda.
Regulations for conducting elections for local or municipal offices outside the regular election cycle.
Administration and Enforcement
The South Carolina State Election Commission (SCEC) oversees the enforcement of these regulations and is responsible for ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and according to the law.
The Commission has the authority to investigate complaints, conduct audits, and impose penalties for violations of election laws and regulations.
Summary:
Chapter 45 of the South Carolina Code of Regulations lays out the procedures for all aspects of election administration within the state. This includes voter registration, election procedures, campaign finance, election challenges, and the handling of election results. The overarching goal is to ensure fair, transparent, and secure elections for all citizens.
RELATED Blog
0 comments