In Columbia, South Carolina, a suite of new laws enacted by state lawmakers and signed by Governor Henry McMaster in 2025 is poised to take effect in 2026. These legislative changes are anticipated to significantly influence schools, roads, and communities throughout the state.

“Last year, we focused on passing laws pertaining to fentanyl, retail theft, and internet crimes, all aimed at enhancing the safety of our children,” stated House Speaker Murrell Smith, representing Sumter. “We also advanced school choice legislation for the second time, which is now operational and delivering promising outcomes.”

Crackdown on Distracted Driving: From Warnings to Fines

One of the most notable changes South Carolinians will encounter is the enforcement of the state’s hands-free and distracted driving law. Although this regulation was officially enacted in September 2025, drivers have been in a period of adjustment, receiving warnings instead of fines as part of a public awareness campaign.

This educational grace period will conclude on February 28, 2026, at which point law enforcement officers will commence issuing fines to violators.

“There’s life-and-death reasons to hang up the phone,” said State Rep. Bill Taylor (R – Aiken). “Just a few seconds of distraction and there’s tragedy.”

Gov. Henry McMaster said distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of preventable crashes across the state.

“To see them unnecessarily hurt, damaged, to see families suffering from just acts of inattention is something that’s just a crying shame,” McMaster said.

State officials hope full enforcement will reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities on South Carolina roadways.

Liquor Liability Insurance Reform

Another major law taking effect in 2026 involves liquor liability insurance reform, a long-debated issue at the Statehouse. The new law changes how insurance requirements are applied to businesses that serve alcohol, allowing liability standards to vary based on employee training, safety practices, and risk reduction programs.

Supporters argue the change will help lower skyrocketing insurance premiums for bars and restaurants while still holding businesses accountable.

“That’s a real win for business and industry in South Carolina,” said Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey (R – Edgefield). “And at the same time, it balances to ensure that we protect innocent victims.”

Business owners across the state have said rising insurance costs have forced some establishments to reduce hours or close altogether, adding urgency to the reform.

Despite the changes, legislative leaders acknowledge the issue is far from settled. Both House and Senate leaders have said additional liability reforms are likely to be debated during the upcoming session.

During a House caucus press conference in early December, Speaker Smith referenced broader legislation that stalled last session but could resurface.

“I think the more to be done was—we had S. 244, which had medical malpractice reform, which had homebuilder liability and some other issues,” Smith said. “Chairman Newton has been holding hearings on those issues, and he intends to start moving legislation when we get back in session.”

What’s Next

As the 2026 legislative session begins in January, lawmakers say they will continue reviewing how newly implemented laws are working while considering additional changes in education, public safety, infrastructure, and tax policy.

State leaders encourage residents to stay informed as enforcement dates approach, noting that several of the laws taking effect next year could have direct impacts on daily life.