Committee approves expansion of drug-free buffer zones to childcare sites

A South Carolina committee voted to advance legislation that would make it unlawful to distribute controlled substances within the protected zones around childcare facilities and day programs, extending existing buffers that already apply to schools, playgrounds and colleges.

Miss Baker summarized the bill for the committee, saying it "would add childcare facilities and day programs to the list of places where distribution of controlled substances is prohibited," matching the current half-mile radius protections around other educational sites.

Sally Foster, director of the South Carolina Sheriffs Association, told lawmakers the bill "closes a dangerous gap" and would give prosecutors clearer grounds for charging offenses that occur near childcare settings. Foster suggested committee drafters consider faith-based child-care sites that operate playgrounds attached to church facilities.

Connolly Ann Ragley of the South Carolina Department of Social Services said DSS regulates childcare centers and their playgrounds and that the bill as written would likely encompass faith-based facilities that are part of the licensed site. Ragley said DSS oversees approximately 2,400 childcare facilities in South Carolina and described the bill as a likely benefit for children and families.

A senator moved for a favorable report; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote with no recorded opposition. The chair announced bill 504 "passed a full committee" and it will move to full committee for further review.