Governor McMaster Previews 2023 Public Safety Proposals for General Assembly

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Today, Governor McMaster previewed numerous public safety proposals that he will ask the General Assembly to consider during the 2023 legislative session starting in January. 

To close the revolving door, Governor McMaster will propose sweeping bond and sentencing reform for violent criminals and repeat offenders. In an effort to keep illegal guns out of the hands of criminals and juveniles, the governor is also proposing strengthening criminal penalties for illegal gun possession to include graduated mandatory minimum felony sentences. In addition, the governor will propose raising the bar on magistrate judge qualifications, while calling on the Senate to make their selection process more transparent and accountable.

“Law enforcement officers know who the repeat criminals are,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “They commit over 80% of the crimes. Where law enforcement needs our help is with stronger laws to keep illegal guns out of the hands of criminals and juveniles, and with new laws to keep repeat violent criminals and career criminals behind bars and not out on bail. And we must ensure the public has confidence in who and how our magistrate judges are appointed.” 

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