Panel advances 'street takeover' bill after supporters cite danger, members seek clearer spectator language

The South Carolina House Criminal Law Subcommittee advanced House Bill 42 92, the Roadway Safety and Protection Act, which aims to target participants, organizers, aiders and intentional spectators of coordinated street‑takeover events.

Representative Martin, the bills sponsor, said such events have increased over the past two to three years and described recent incidents in Fort Mill and elsewhere where hundreds of vehicles blocked roadways, causing safety and property‑damage concerns. "These have happened in Spartanburg, down in Simpsonville, up in Charlotte, and now they're coming over to Fort Mill," Martin said.

JJ Jones, a retired deputy sheriff who testified in support, described witnessing 100–150 cars shut down a major highway and said the events posed immediate danger to drivers and residents. "I urge you to realize the importance of this bill," Jones said.

Representative Seth Rose pressed the sponsor about the provision covering spectators, asking whether ordinary bystanders or passersby who record an event could be criminalized. Representative Martin said the intent is not to penalize someone "at the wrong place at the wrong time" and that the language is meant to capture people who intentionally go to watch or videotape these events; he welcomed tighter language and amendments in full committee.

Representative Robbie Robbins suggested aligning penalties so first offenses for participants are misdemeanors, escalating to felonies on repeat offenses; members agreed to consider amendments at full committee.

With no additional speakers, the subcommittee ordered a favorable report by roll call: Chairman Jeff Johnson, Representative William Bailey, Representative Robbie Robbins and Representative Seth Rose voted "Aye." The bill will be placed on the full Judiciary Committee agenda for further drafting and debate.