South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

South Carolina House Bill H3151

Introduced
1/14/25  

Caption

Sunscreen devices

Impact

The amendment proposed in HB 3151 has significant implications for vehicle owners and manufacturers in South Carolina. By adjusting the permissible light transmission levels, the bill aims to strike a balance between driver comfort and safety. This change may require owners of existing vehicles to evaluate compliance, particularly if their vehicle's existing sunscreening does not meet the new standards. Furthermore, the bill supports safety regulations while adapting to modern preferences for vehicle customization.

Summary

House Bill 3151 aims to amend Section 56-5-5015 of the South Carolina Code of Laws to revise the permitted levels of light transmission for sunscreening devices installed on vehicle windshields, side windows, and rear windows. The bill specifies that sunscreening devices must be nonreflective and sets forth minimum light transmission percentages for these devices. For instance, the combined light transmission of the sunscreening device with any factory-installed material must be no less than 27% for side and rear windows. This change is intended to enhance vehicle safety by providing clear visibility while still allowing for some degree of sun protection.

Contention

Notably, while the bill may seem straightforward, it could spark discussions about vehicle modifications and state regulation on personal property. Stakeholders, including automotive businesses and safety advocates, may have differing views on the flexibility allowed in sunscreening devices. Questions may arise around enforcement, possible penalties for non-compliance, and the effectiveness of these regulations in improving road safety compared to previous standards.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SC HB5038

Relating to motor vehicle windshield sunscreening devices.

SC HB1126

Relating to sunscreening devices installed on a motor vehicle that displays or qualifies for the issuance of a judicial specialty license plate.

SC H3851

Sunscreen devices

SC HB368

Relating To Motor Vehicle Sun Screening Devices.

SC HB368

Relating To Motor Vehicle Sun Screening Devices.

SC HB226

Relating To Windshield Tinting.

SC SB1237

Relating To Motor Vehicles.

SC SB1237

Relating To Motor Vehicles.

SC A2294

Eliminates sales tax on baby necessities and sunscreen.

SC S2277

Eliminates sales tax on baby necessities and sunscreen.

Similar Bills

HI SB2426

Relating To Environmental Protection.

HI SB840

Relating To Environmental Protection.

HI SB840

Relating To Environmental Protection.

NH SB432

Authorizing the application of sunscreen in schools and camps without a licensed health care provider's note or prescription and establishing a skin cancer prevention education program.

HI HR15

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Collaborate With The Department Of Education And State Public Charter School Commission To Develop A Student Coral Stewardship Program.

HI HCR13

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Collaborate With The Department Of Education And State Public Charter School Commission To Develop A Student Coral Stewardship Program.

HI SR16

Requesting The Division Of Aquatic Resources To Collaborate With The Department Of Education And State Public Charter School Commission To Develop And Propose A Framework For A Student Coral Stewardship Program.

HI SCR19

Requesting The Department Of Education And State Public Charter School Commission To Collaborate With The Division Of Aquatic Resources Of The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Develop And Propose A Framework For A Student Coral Stewardship Program.