Senate introduces AI consumer-protection bill, recognizes teachers and nurses, adopts Suits and Sneakers Day and advances multiple bills

The South Carolina Senate opened with a devotional, completed roll call and proceeded through a packed agenda that included bill introductions, ceremonial recognitions, committee reports and calendar actions.

Senator Lieber introduced the "Consumer Protections and Interactions with Artificial Intelligence Systems Act," saying the measure "empowers the AG to make sure that the AI is operating in good faith, not doing extreme nefarious things, and protecting the South Carolinians." The bill was referred to the Banking and Insurance Committee for further review.

The chamber also adopted a resolution recognizing March 4, 2026, as "Suits and Sneakers Day" by unanimous consent. Senators welcomed visitors from the Community Medical Center of Kershaw County and teachers from Ware Shoals School District 51; a separate introduction highlighted Florence County's 2025–2026 teachers of the year.

The Medical Affairs Committee presented and the Senate adopted an amendment updating tuberculosis screening requirements for residential care facilities and nursing homes. As Senator from Greenwood explained, "The old rule was 14 days. We're going to expand it to 3 months." The amendment ties the definition of low risk to CDC guidance and clarifies timeframes for negative tests and employment-start stipulations.

Multiple bills received third readings or were placed on the calendar, including measures on intercollegiate NIL disclosure exemptions, foster care board standards, adding the Department of Consumer Affairs to the executive branch roster, telehealth for veterinary services and other items. The Senate moved into executive session to consider nominations and later adjourned to meet Tuesday at noon.

Senator Devine, welcoming nurses to the chamber, told the visitors that their "dedication does not go unnoticed" and thanked them for their service to communities across South Carolina. The Senate concluded routine business before adjourning.