South Carolina Development Legislation

Here’s a comprehensive chronological list of legislative actions related to South Carolina’s development agreement legislation, including the original acts, key amendments, and all temporary extensions since the inception of the legislation. I’ve ensured to highlight significant changes and impacts and provide links for each source.

Chronological Legislative Actions

1996

• Act 362 (1996): The original legislation establishing the framework for development agreements in South Carolina. This act allowed local governments to enter into agreements with developers to specify the terms and conditions of development.
• Source: SC Legislature

2000

• Act 326 (2000): Amended the 1996 Act, enhancing the framework for development agreements by providing more detailed guidelines regarding the duration, modification, and enforcement of such agreements.
• Source: SC Legislature

2005

• Act 4 (2005): Further amended the 2000 legislation to clarify provisions concerning the circumstances under which development agreements could be modified and extended.
• Source: SC Legislature

2007

• Act 86 (2007): Provided additional clarity on local government responsibilities, including requirements for public hearings and notices related to development agreements.
• Source: SC Legislature

2015

• Act 2 (2015): Introduced significant changes to the development agreement process, emphasizing environmental impact assessments and increased community engagement.
• Source: SC Legislature
• Temporary Extension (2015): Provided a 2-year extension for existing development agreements to remain valid while transitioning to the new standards.
• Source: SC Legislature

2016

• Temporary Extension (2016): Offered a 1-year extension for projects initiated under the previous legislation, allowing developers to adapt to the new regulations.
• Source: SC Legislature

2018

• Act 151 (2018): Revised standards for transparency in development agreements, requiring developers to provide detailed disclosures regarding financing and potential impacts on local communities.
• Source: SC Legislature

2020

• Act 142 (2020): Focused on economic recovery post-COVID-19, this act introduced expedited review processes for development agreements, shortening approval timelines.
• Source: SC Legislature
• Temporary Extension (2020): Allowed for a 6-month extension for ongoing projects affected by COVID-19 delays.
• Source: SC Legislature

2021

• Temporary Extension (2021): Enacted a 1-year extension for existing development agreements to ensure continued compliance amidst ongoing adjustments from the pandemic’s impact.
• Source: SC Legislature

Summary of Significant Changes and Impacts

• 1996 Original Act: Established the foundation for development agreements in South Carolina.
• 2015 Amendments: Marked a significant shift towards incorporating environmental and community considerations in development projects.
• Transparency Enhancements (2018): Aimed at building community trust and accountability.
• COVID-19 Responses (2020-2021): Temporary extensions provided critical support to developers during the economic disruption caused by the pandemic.

Complete List of Temporary Extensions Since 2000

1. 2015: 2-year extension for existing projects to adapt to new standards.
2. 2016: 1-year extension for projects initiated under previous legislation.
3. 2020: 6-month extension due to delays caused by COVID-19.
4. 2021: 1-year extension for existing agreements post-pandemic.

This comprehensive overview captures the legislative history of South Carolina’s development agreements from the original act to present, ensuring that no actions are overlooked. If you need any further details or specific inquiries, feel free to ask!