South Carolina Law > Code of Laws > Title 53

SECTION 53-3-10.Arbor Day.

The first Friday of December of each year is set apart as Arbor Day and as a part of the observance of Arbor Day the officials, teachers, supervisors, principals and superintendents of the public schools are directed to observe the first Friday in December in each year as South Carolina Arbor Day with appropriate ceremonies, including the planting of trees on school property, and all civic, patriotic and fraternal organizations are requested to lend their assistance in the observance of such day in an appropriate manner.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 64-101; 1952 Code Section 64-101; 1942 Code Section 5387; 1940 (41) 1824.

SECTION 53-3-20.Frances Willard Day.

The fourth Friday in October in each year shall be set apart and designated in the public schools as Frances Willard Day and in each public school it shall be the duty of such school to prepare and render a suitable program on the day to the end that the children of the State may be taught the evils of intemperance.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 64-102; 1952 Code Section 64-102; 1942 Code Section 5389; 1932 Code Section 5433; Civ. C. '22 Section 2698; 1918 (30) 791.

SECTION 53-3-30.General Pulaski's Memorial Day.

The Governor shall issue a proclamation calling upon officials of the government to display the flag of the United States on all governmental buildings on October eleventh of each year and inviting the people of the State to observe the day in schools and churches or other suitable places with appropriate ceremonies in commemoration of the death of General Casimir Pulaski.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 64-103; 1952 Code Section 64-103; 1942 Code Section 5390; 1932 (37) 1268.

SECTION 53-3-35.General Francis Marion Memorial Day.

The twenty-seventh day of February of each year is designated as "General Francis Marion Memorial Day" in honor of this South Carolina Revolutionary War hero.

HISTORY: 2007 Act No. 18, Section 2, eff May 2, 2007.

SECTION 53-3-40.Mother's Day.

The Governor is requested to issue annually a proclamation calling upon the State officials to display the United States flag and the flag of this State on all State and school buildings and the people of the State to display the flag at their homes, lodges, churches, places of business and other suitable places on the second Sunday in May, known as Mother's Day, founded by Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as a public expression of love and reverence for the homes of the State, especially for their mothers and other patriotic women therein, and the Governor is requested to urge the celebration of Mother's Day in such proclamation in such a way as will deepen home ties and inspire better homes and closer union between the State, its homes and their sons and daughters.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 64-104; 1952 Code Section 64-104; 1942 Code Section 5704; 1932 Code Section 5704; 1923 (33) 240.

SECTION 53-3-45.Family Respect Day.

The Friday immediately preceding Mother's Day of each year is designated "Family Respect Day" in recognition of the important role the family unit plays in a healthy and productive society.

HISTORY: 2001 Act No. 4, Section 5, eff November 30, 2000.

SECTION 53-3-50.Grandmother's Day.

The second Sunday in October of each year is hereby officially designated "Grandmother's Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 64-104.1; 1970 (56) 2278.

SECTION 53-3-60.South Carolina Day.

The public schools shall observe Calhoun's birthday, the eighteenth of March of each year, as South Carolina Day and on that day the school officers and teachers shall conduct such exercises as will conduce to a more general knowledge and appreciation of the history, resources and possibilities of this State. If such day shall fall on Saturday or Sunday the Friday nearest to March eighteenth shall be so observed and if any school shall not be in session on such date, the celebration may be held before the close of the term. The State Superintendent of Education shall suggest such topics or programs as he may deem appropriate for the celebration of South Carolina Day.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 64-105; 1952 Code Section 64-105; 1942 Code Section 5388; 1932 Code Section 5432; Civ. C. '22 Section 2697; Civ. C. '12 Section 1810; 1906 (25) 22.

SECTION 53-3-65.Spirit of '45 Day.

The second Sunday in August is hereby designated as "Spirit of '45 Day" to commemorate the anniversary of the end of World War II.

HISTORY: 2014 Act No. 257 (H.4788), Section 1, eff June 6, 2014.

SECTION 53-3-70.Loyalty Day.

May first of every year shall be designated as Loyalty Day in this State.

HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 64-106; 1957 (50) 127.

SECTION 53-3-75.Eartha Kitt Day.

January seventeenth of each year, the birthday of the late actress, singer, and native South Carolinian Eartha Mae Kitt, is declared to be "Eartha Kitt Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2016 Act No. 171 (H.3036), Section 2, eff May 12, 2016.

Editor's Note

2016 Act No. 171, preamble, provides as follows:

"SECTION 1. (A) The General Assembly finds that it is important to support efforts to increase tourism in the State, the state's number one industry, and particularly to encourage cultural tourism with an emphasis on increasing visitors to undiscovered South Carolina rural areas outside of well-known tourist destinations in the State. The state's recognition and subsequent celebration of the lives of prominent native South Carolinians is one outstanding way to support this effort and the 2.5 million media campaign by the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism to attract both in-state and out-of-state visitors to the lesser-known areas of our great State.

"(B) The late Eartha Mae Kitt was a nationally and internationally known actress, singer, and cabaret star who was born in the town of North, South Carolina, a small community in Orangeburg County, on January 17, 1927. Her mother was of Cherokee and African-American descent and her father of German or Dutch descent. She was raised by Anna Mae Riley, an African-American woman whom she believed to be her mother. After Riley's death, she was sent to live in New York City with Mamie Kitt, who she learned was her biological mother. She had no knowledge of her father, except that his surname was Kitt and that he was supposedly a son of the owner of the farm where she had been born.

"(C) Ms. Kitt began her career as a member of the Katherine Dunham Company in 1943 and remained a member of the troupe until 1948. A talented singer with a distinctive voice, she had many hits including her most recognizable hit, 'Santa Baby', which was released in 1953. Ms. Kitt's unique style was enhanced as she became fluent in the French language during her years performing in Europe. Her English-speaking performances always seemed to be enriched by a soft French feel. She had skill in other languages too, as she spoke four languages and sang in seven, which she effortlessly demonstrated in many of the live recordings of her cabaret performances.

"(D) In 1950, Orson Welles gave Ms. Kitt her first starring role as Helen of Troy in his staging of 'Dr. Faustus'. Orson Welles and Ms. Kitt were very close professionally and he once referred to her as the 'most exciting woman in the world'. Throughout the rest of the 1950s and early 1960s, Ms. Kitt would record, work in film, television, and nightclubs, and return to the Broadway stage in 'Mrs. Patterson' during the 1954-1955 season, and in 'Shinbone Alley' in 1957. Also, in the 1960s, the television series 'Batman' featured her as Catwoman after Julie Newmar left the role, and is perhaps her most famous television role.

"(E) In 1968, during the administration of President Lyndon B. Johnson, she encountered a professional setback after she made anti-war statements during a White House luncheon. Ms. Kitt was invited to a White House luncheon and was asked by Lady Bird Johnson about the Vietnam War. She replied, 'You send the best of this country off to be shot and maimed. No wonder the kids rebel and take pot'. There was extreme public reaction to Ms. Kitt's statements, both pro and con, and for a period of time thereafter, she devoted her energies primarily to performances in Europe and Asia.

"(F) Eartha Kitt was throughout her career a favorite of international audiences. She became a cultural icon among many audiences outside the United States through her famous Monty Python sketch 'The Cycling Tour', which she performed before an enthusiastic crowd in Moscow, where an amnesiac believes he is first Clodagh Rodgers, then Trotsky, and finally Ms. Kitt. She was also widely followed in the United Kingdom as a recording artist. In 1984, 'Where Is My Man', the first certified gold record of her career, reached the Top 40 on the UK Singles Chart where it peaked at #36. Her 1989 follow-up hit 'Cha-Cha Heels', featuring Bronski Beat, received a positive response from UK dance clubs and reached #32 in the charts in that country.

"(G) In her personal life, she married John Williams McDonald, an associate of a real estate investment company on June 6, 1960. They divorced in 1965. Their only child, a daughter named Kitt, was born on November 26, 1961. Kitt McDonald married Charles Lawrence Shapiro in 1987 and had two children, Jason and Rachel Shapiro. A long-time Connecticut resident, Ms. Kitt lived in a converted barn on a sprawling farm in the Merryall section of New Milford for many years and was active in local charities and causes throughout Litchfield County. In 2002, Ms. Kitt moved to the southern Fairfield County, Connecticut town of Weston, to be near her daughter's family where she died from colon cancer on Christmas Day, 2008.

"(H) In 2014, the Orangeburg Times and Democrat recognized the talented songstress with the highly distinctive singing style on Day 5 of its 'Vintage Orangeburg County' series, '100 Objects in 100 Days'. The series highlighted the rich cultural history of Orangeburg County and told the stories of people, places, objects, and 'things' that express the unique nature of Orangeburg County. The list would not be complete without the inclusion of the one-of-a-kind Eartha Mae Kitt.

"(I) The members of the General Assembly believe it would be a fitting tribute to her memory and career, and an example to young South Carolinians of what a person with talent, drive, and ambition can achieve regardless of circumstances, if her birthday were officially recognized as 'Eartha Kitt Day' in South Carolina each year. In addition, establishing an official day to commemorate the life of this native South Carolinian could potentially positively impact the State economically as such a day may attract visitors to the State to patronize its businesses as this remarkable woman is celebrated thereby promoting cultural tourism in the State."

SECTION 53-3-80.Martin Luther King Day.

The third Monday of January of each year, is declared to be Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 1975 (59) 34; 2000 Act No. 246, Section 2, eff May 1, 2000.

Editor's Note

The preamble to 1975 Act No. 31 (1975 (59) 34) provides:

"Whereas, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., dedicated his work to his race, the nation, and the world; and

"Whereas, in rememberance of his devoted life and teachings of the moral injustices committed to the oppressed; and

"Whereas, his voice was recognized in this nation as a voice of the Blacks, the poor, and the underprivileged, always carrying their flag; and

"Whereas, he gave his life to his belief and principles that all men should be treated with justice and equality; and

"Whereas, his tragic death made all Americans more aware of the challenge to make our lives and the lives of others better; and

"Whereas, the General Assembly desires to perpetuate his memory. Now, therefore,

"Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:"

Effect of Amendment

The 2000 amendment substituted "The third Monday of January of each year" for "January fifteenth of each year, Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday".

SECTION 53-3-85.Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom Day; World Sickle Cell Day.

(A) The nineteenth day of June of each year is designated as "Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom Day" to commemorate and reflect on the freedom of African Americans and their contributions to this State and nation.

(B) In addition to the provisions of subsection (A), the nineteenth day of June of each year also is recognized as "Sickle Cell Day in South Carolina" in commemoration of "World Sickle Cell Day" as created by the United Nations by resolution. The African Union (2005), the UNESCO (2005), the WHO (2006), and the United Nations (2008) recognize sickle cell disease as a public health priority with an estimated five hundred thousand persons born each year with the disease. The nineteenth day of June has been chosen to raise awareness of the genetic disease and support and encourage research, treatment, and management of sickle cell disease.

HISTORY: 2008 Act No. 228, Section 2, eff May 14, 2008; 2018 Act No. 237 (H.3195), Section 1, eff May 17, 2018.

Effect of Amendment

2018 Act No. 237, Section 1, inserted the (A) designator, and added (B), providing that the nineteenth day of June is also recognized as "Sickle Cell Day in South Carolina".

SECTION 53-3-90.Family Week designated.

The last week in August of each year is declared "Family Week in South Carolina." The Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism shall develop a plan to promote the celebration of Family Week. The plan shall include, but not be limited to, the promotion of local festivals, pageants, field days, picnics, reunions and similar activities which would encourage participation by families as a unit.

HISTORY: 1978 Act No. 398 Section 1.

Editor's Note

The preamble to 1978 Act No. 398 provides:

"Whereas, throughout the history of the United States the family unit, along with the church and schools, has been the most important institution in the development of the strength and prosperity of the nation; and

"Whereas, it seems that the American family's influence on the national scene is lessening because of a deterioration of the cohesiveness of the family induced by many undermining forces on the national society; and

"Whereas, the waning of the influence of the American family has resulted in the weakening of the moral and spiritual fiber of the American people, bringing about an increase in crime, including child abuse, alcohol abuse and drug abuse and other crippling problems, to the extent that even the economy of the nation has suffered; and

"Whereas, the General Assembly believes strongly in the importance of the family and recognizes it as a vital structure for the rebuilding of a strong and wholesome society. Now, therefore,

"Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:"

SECTION 53-3-100.Family Week: creation of committee to choose "South Carolina Family of the Year".

A committee is created to choose and honor the "South Carolina Family of the Year" which must be recognized by the presentation of an appropriate award by the Governor on Saturday of "Family Week in South Carolina". The committee is composed of one member appointed by the Governor and one member appointed by the head of each of the following state agencies: the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, the Department of Youth Services, the South Carolina Commission on Aging, the Department of Social Services, the Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, and the Department of Agriculture Clemson College Extension Service. The terms of the members are for four years and until their successors are appointed and qualify. The committee shall meet as soon after the appointment of its members as practicable and organize by electing one of its members as chairman, one as secretary, and such other officers that it may determine. The expenses of the committee must be paid by the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from funds appropriated for this purpose.

HISTORY: 1978 Act No. 398 Section 2; 1988 Act No. 600.

SECTION 53-3-105.Fibromyalgia Awareness Day.

The twelfth day of May of each year is designated as "Fibromyalgia Awareness Day" in South Carolina to educate employers, physicians, and citizens of South Carolina of the debilitating effects of fibromyalgia.

HISTORY: 2008 Act No. 196, Section 2, eff April 15, 2008.

SECTION 53-3-110.Garden Week designated.

The week beginning the first Sunday of June each year is designated "Garden Week".

HISTORY: 1982 Act No. 364.

Editor's Note

The preamble to 1982 Act No. 364, effective May 6, 1982, provides as follows:

"Whereas, the gardeners of this State produce a variety of foods for their own use as well as for their neighbors; and

"Whereas, gardens also yield flowers of great diversity and breathtaking beauty; and

"Whereas, gardening is a pleasant and productive full- or part-time activity for a large number of citizens; and

"Whereas gardeners help to preserve and foster the traditional American spirit of independence and individual initiative; and

"Whereas, gardening instills in all Americans a great appreciation for nature and the beauty of this country, an appreciation which fosters respect and care for the environment. Now, therefore,

"Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:"

SECTION 53-3-115.Golden-September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

The month of September of every year is declared "Golden-September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month" in South Carolina to honor and give courage to all those children in our State who are fighting this terrible disease.

HISTORY: 2013 Act No. 25, Section 2, eff May 3, 2013.

Editor's Note

2013 Act No. 25, Section 1, provides as follows:

"SECTION 1. The General Assembly finds that:

"(1) cancer is a disease that affects Americans of every sex, gender, race, and ethnicity;

"(2) it is a particularly horrible disease when it strikes children; and

"(3) to declare the month of September of each year as 'Childhood Cancer Awareness Month' in South Carolina and to designate it as 'Golden-September' would honor and give courage to all those children in our State who are fighting this terrible disease."

SECTION 53-3-117.Water Safety Awareness Month.

The month of May of every year is declared "Water Safety Awareness Month" in South Carolina to promote an understanding of water safety practices and the critical importance of water safety in an effort to reduce drowning deaths among children in this State.

HISTORY: 2016 Act No. 180 (H.5218), Section 1, eff May 23, 2016.

Editor's Note

2016 Act No. 180, preamble, provides as follows:

"Whereas, drowning ranks as one of the leading causes of death in our nation; and

"Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 2005 to 2009, there was an average of three thousand five hundred fifty-three unintentional drownings (nonboating related) in the United States, an average of ten deaths per day; and

"Whereas, children aged five to fourteen most often drown in swimming pools and open water such as rivers, lakes, dams, and canals; and

"Whereas, a swimming pool is fourteen times more likely than a motor vehicle to be involved in the death of a child aged four and under; and

"Whereas, understanding the precious gift South Carolina children are to the future of this State, the General Assembly seeks to bring awareness of the importance of water safety by designating the month of May as 'Water Safety Awareness Month'."

SECTION 53-3-120.Purple Heart Day.

The seventh day of August of each year is designated as Purple Heart Day in South Carolina to honor the decoration itself and those men and women who have received it.

HISTORY: 2000 Act No. 342, Section 1, eff June 6, 2000; 2013 Act No. 21, Section 1, eff May 3, 2013.

Effect of Amendment

The 2013 amendment substituted "seventh day of August of" for "third Saturday in February".

SECTION 53-3-125.Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down Festival Weekend.

The third Saturday in September of each year is designated "Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down Festival Weekend" in South Carolina in recognition of the cultural significance of this tradition in Horry County.

HISTORY: 2014 Act No. 182 (H.4993), Section 1, eff May 16, 2014.

SECTION 53-3-130.Golf week designated.

The last week in April in each year is designated as "Golf Week" in South Carolina. The Governor shall issue appropriate proclamations to commemorate "Golf Week" which must be observed throughout South Carolina with appropriate ceremonies and events to recognize the:

(1) economic impact of the golf industry in South Carolina;

(2) importance of the state's junior golfers;

(3) importance of turfgrass research.

HISTORY: 1995 Act No. 29, Section 1, eff April 10, 1995.

Editor's Note

The preamble of 1995 Act No. 29 provides as follows:

"Whereas, a University of South Carolina and South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism study shows golf generating more than six hundred forty-four million dollars annually for the state's economy, putting it on a par with the state's larger industries; and

"Whereas, given that the National Golf Foundation ranks South Carolina just behind Florida as the nation's most popular golfing spot for tourists, this staggering amount of revenue isn't surprising; and

"Whereas, the study, which is the state's first economic impact study of South Carolina's golf industry, finds that the golf course operations generate employment for more than fourteen thousand full-time workers; and

"Whereas, the study showed:

"(1) Out-of-state and international tourists, mostly from Canada and Germany, account for thirty-eight percent of South Carolina golfers

"(2) Sixty-three cents of every dollar spent by South Carolina's golf industry is respent in the state's economy

"(3) More than four hundred sixteen industries, including golf courses, utility companies, liability insurance companies, chemical/fertilizer manufacturers, and golf vehicle dealers, benefit directly from the state's golf industry

"(4) More than sixteen million, seven hundred thousand dollars in sales, excise, and admission taxes are generated annually by golf-related industries. Additional benefits include the creation of jobs and property tax revenue; and

"Whereas, the members of the General Assembly recognize the importance of raising funds for research to promote environmentally sound turfgrass management. The continued success of the golf industry is dependent on research-based answers to the environmental concerns of the public; and

"Whereas, Golf Week in South Carolina will allow the South Carolina Junior Golf Association and the South Carolina Chapter of the Professional Golfers of America to seek support to increase the education and advancement of junior golf throughout the State and will allow the South Carolina Turfgrass Foundation to pursue research and education relating to environmentally sensitive turfgrass management. Now, therefore,".

SECTION 53-3-140."Carolina Day" declared.

June twenty-eighth of each year, the anniversary of the Battle of Fort Sullivan in 1776, is declared to be "Carolina Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 1996 Act No. 280, Section 1, eff May 6, 1996.

SECTION 53-3-150.Patriot Day, Constitution Day, and Patriotism Week observations.

(A) The week which includes the eleventh day of November in each year is designated as "Patriotism Week" in South Carolina. The Governor shall issue appropriate proclamations to commemorate "Patriotism Week" which must be observed throughout South Carolina with appropriate ceremonies and events to:

(1) recognize the important contributions made by our military veterans to American society;

(2) honor the supreme sacrifices made by our veterans in defending the freedoms and protections afforded by the United States Constitution; and

(3) memorialize those men and women who lost their lives in military service.

(B) The State Superintendent of Education shall require school districts to:

(1) observe "Patriot Day", "Constitution Day", and "Patriotism Week" by holding appropriate ceremonies, events, and assemblies on school grounds, including time allotted for youth patriotic society addresses to students as provided in Section 59-1-465; and

(2) develop appropriate curricula that focus on the purposes of "Patriot Day", "Constitution Day", and "Patriotism Week".

(C) Commissioners and directors of state agencies and governing bodies of political subdivisions shall encourage participation by public employees in ceremonies and events during "Patriotism Week".

HISTORY: 2001 Act No. 4, Section 6, eff November 30, 2000; 2022 Act No. 177 (S.969), Section 3, eff July 1, 2023.

Editor's Note

2022 Act No. 177, preamble and Section 4, provide as follows:

"Whereas, July 30, 2016, marked the 60th anniversary of 'In God We Trust' as the official motto of the United States; and

"Whereas, in 2011, by resolution of the United States House of Representatives, with the concurrence of the United States Senate, the United States Congress reaffirmed 'In God We Trust' as the official motto of the United States and supported and encouraged the public display of the national motto in all public buildings, public schools, and other governmental institutions; and

"Whereas, 'In God We Trust' appears over the south entrance to the United States Senate Chamber and above the Speaker's rostrum in the Chamber of the United States House of Representatives; and

"Whereas, the motto has been an integral part of the society of the United States since its founding and first appeared on U.S. coins in 1864; and

"Whereas, 'Dum spiro spero', which translates to 'While I breathe, I hope' is perhaps the most well known of South Carolina's two mottos and appears on the State Seal that was adopted in 1776; and

"Whereas, reflecting the character and beliefs of the citizens of South Carolina, 'Dum spiro spero' illustrates the inherent spirit of South Carolinians to overcome obstacles and face each day with the courage and determination to do what is just in the face of adversity; and

"Whereas, 'Animis opibusque parati', which translates to 'Prepared in Mind and Resources', is the other South Carolina state motto. It is especially fitting that this motto appear in state schools, as it reflects the central aim of South Carolina's education system."

"SECTION 4. The provisions of this act take effect July 1, 2023."

Effect of Amendment

2022 Act No. 177, Section 3, in (B), substituted "require" for "encourage", in (1), inserted "'Patriot Day', 'Constitution Day', and" following "observe" and ", including time allotted for youth patriotic society addresses to students as provided in Section 59-1-465" following "school grounds", and in (2), inserted "'Patriot Day', 'Constitution Day', and".

SECTION 53-3-160.September eleventh.

The eleventh day of September of each year is designated as a State Day of Remembrance for the victims of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and for the firefighters, law enforcement, National Guard, emergency service personnel, and 911 telecommunicators who risk their lives and contribute every day to ensure the safety of South Carolina's citizens.

HISTORY: 2002 Act No. 268, Section 1, eff May 20, 2002.

SECTION 53-3-165.POW/MIA Recognition Day.

(A) The third Friday in September of each year is declared to be "POW/MIA Recognition Day" in South Carolina. The Governor shall issue a proclamation each year calling upon the people of South Carolina to observe "POW/MIA Recognition Day" with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

(B) Flags atop state and local public buildings must be flown at half-staff at least until noon on "POW/MIA Recognition Day".

(C) The POW/MIA flag shall be flown or displayed on "POW/MIA Recognition Day" in South Carolina on the grounds or in public lobbies if the flags are provided, except for the State Capitol Building and the State House grounds.

(D) As used in this section, the term "POW/MIA flag" means the National League of Families POW/MIA flag recognized officially and designated by Section 2 of Public Law 101-355.

HISTORY: 2004 Act No. 192, Section 2, eff March 26, 2004.

SECTION 53-3-166.Bill of Rights Day.

(A) December fifteenth of each year, the anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights of the United States Constitution, is declared to be "Bill of Rights Day" in South Carolina.

(B) All governmental bodies in the State are encouraged to observe the annual Bill of Rights Day in a manner that brings to mind the meaning and importance of each of its ten provisions.

HISTORY: 2006 Act No. 295, Section 1, eff May 31, 2006.

SECTION 53-3-170.South Carolina State Guard Week.

The first week of June of each year is designated as South Carolina State Guard Week."

HISTORY: 2004 Act No. 240, Section 1, eff May 24, 2004.

SECTION 53-3-185.Vietnam Veterans Survivors' and Remembrance Day.

The first Friday in May of each year is declared to be "Vietnam Veterans Survivors' and Remembrance Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2006 Act No. 268, Section 2, eff May 2, 2006.

SECTION 53-3-195.Veterans' Spouses and Families Day.

In gratitude and acknowledgment of the many and varied contributions of the spouses and families of this country's veterans and their sacrifices for the benefit of the freedom we so richly enjoy, the Friday after Thanksgiving Day each year is designated as "A Day of Recognition for Veterans' Spouses and Families" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2014 Act No. 204 (H.4527), Section 1, eff June 2, 2014.

SECTION 53-3-200.Italian American Heritage Month.

The month of October of every year is designated "Italian American Heritage Month" in South Carolina in order to recognize Italian Americans for their many contributions to our State and nation.

HISTORY: 2015 Act No. 6 (S.411), Section 1, eff March 27, 2015.

SECTION 53-3-205.Post-Traumatic Stress Injury Awareness Day.

June twenty-seventh of each year is designated as South Carolina Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) Awareness Day.

HISTORY: 2016 Act No. 162 (H.4816), Section 1, eff April 21, 2016.

Editor's Note

2016 Act No. 162, preamble, provides as follows:

"Whereas, the brave men and women who proudly serve the United States Armed Forces by risking their lives to protect our nation and its ideals deserve the investment of all possible resources to their long-term psychological, physical and emotional health; and

"Whereas, the acronym PTSI refers to the term post-traumatic stress injury; and

"Whereas, post-traumatic stress injury occurs after a person has experienced severe trauma and can result from the stress produced in combat, as well as in car accidents, plane crashes, bombings, child abuse or natural disaster; and

"Whereas, post-traumatic stress injuries can be characterized by numerous symptoms including: flashbacks, avoidance, hyper-vigilance, depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and thoughts of suicide; and

"Whereas, more than two million American service men and women have been deployed by the United States Armed Forces since September 11, 2001; and

"Whereas, many members of the United States Armed Forces deploy more than once, increasing the risk of developing post-traumatic stress injuries; and

"Whereas, the reference to the word 'disorder' when describing a post-traumatic stress injury may imply a negative connotation; and

"Whereas, this negative connotation can discourage United States Armed Forces service men and women, as well as other citizens who experience post-traumatic stress injuries from seeking and receiving aid; and

"Whereas, the establishment of Post-Traumatic Stress Injury Awareness Day would raise public awareness of the injury; and

"Whereas, the establishment of Post-Traumatic Stress Injury Awareness Day also would increase awareness of the need to develop effective treatments and aid the effort to eliminate any negative stigmas associated with post-traumatic stress injuries. Now, therefore, [text of act]."

SECTION 53-3-210.South Carolina Day of Service.

The third Saturday in May of each year is declared to be "South Carolina Day of Service" in South Carolina; and all South Carolinians are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand to make a positive difference in our great State.

HISTORY: 2016 Act No. 235 (H.5020), Section 1, eff June 3, 2016.

Editor's Note

2016 Act No. 235, preamble, provides as follows:

"Whereas, while 2015 was a year of unparalleled tragedies and other difficult challenges in South Carolina, the compassion, faith, and courageous endeavors of our people and communities set the Palmetto State apart, showing that in times of need we come together, neighbors helping neighbors; and

"Whereas, sustained efforts to fill unmet community needs through such activities as checking on neighbors, delivering meals, removing litter and beautifying an area, mentoring a student, or repairing a building will continue to unite the citizens of our State; and

"Whereas, Leadership South Carolina Class of 2016 is establishing an annual South Carolina Day of Service on the third Saturday of May to support and celebrate the spirit of the Palmetto State by encouraging our residents to give back to their communities and State in a meaningful, yet simple, way; and

"Whereas, an annual South Carolina Day of Service provides a unique opportunity to volunteer as an individual, group, school, or business to create a better South Carolina."

SECTION 53-3-215.South Carolina Native Plant Week.

The third week in October of each year is declared to be "South Carolina Native Plant Week" in South Carolina, and all South Carolinians are encouraged to recognize the essential value and importance of the native plants of South Carolina to our state's history, economic landscape, and environment.

HISTORY: 2018 Act No. 140 (H.4005), Section 1, eff March 12, 2018.

SECTION 53-3-220.Fibroid Tumor Awareness Month.

The month of July of each year is designated as "Fibroid Tumor Awareness Month" to raise awareness of the impact fibroid tumors have on women's health.

HISTORY: 2018 Act No. 181 (S.79), Section 1, eff May 15, 2018.

SECTION 53-3-225.Barbers' Day.

The third Wednesday in February of each year is designated as "Barbers' Day" in South Carolina in recognition of the cultural significance of barbering and the invaluable contributions of the practice of barbering in the Palmetto State.

HISTORY: 2019 Act No. 30 (S.12), Section 1, eff May 13, 2019.

Editor's Note

2019 Act No. 30, preamble, provides as follows:

"Whereas, the practice of barbering has a long history, with razors having been found among relics of the Bronze Age, around 3500 B.C., in Egypt; and

"Whereas, although in modern times barbers are best known for providing haircuts and clean shaves, the work of barbers has evolved over the centuries, including serving as surgeons and dentists during the Middle Ages; and

"Whereas, barbershops enjoy a special cultural significance in America, serving as gathering places where issues of the day are discussed and friendships are fostered; and

"Whereas, in South Carolina today, over 4,100 barbers are engaged in this distinguished occupation, proudly serving thousands of South Carolinians daily. Now, therefore, [text of Act]."

SECTION 53-3-230.Penn Center Heritage Day.

The second Saturday of November of each year is designated as 'Penn Center Heritage Day' in South Carolina to promote and preserve Penn Center's true history and culture through its commitment to education, community development, and social justice.

HISTORY: 2018 Act No. 228 (H.4913), Section 1, eff May 18, 2018.

SECTION 53-3-240.Dr. Ronald McNair Day.

The twenty-first day of October of each year is designated as "Dr. Ronald McNair Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2018 Act No. 141 (H.4858), Section 1, eff March 12, 2018.

SECTION 53-3-250.Atomic Veterans Day.

The sixteenth day of July of each year is designated as "Atomic Veterans Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2020 Act No. 131 (H.4439), Section 1, eff April 10, 2020.

SECTION 53-3-260.Historically Black Colleges and Universities Day.

The third Tuesday in February of each year is designated as "Historically Black Colleges and Universities Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2022 Act No. 120 (H.4576), Section 1, eff February 15, 2022.

SECTION 53-3-270.Robert Smalls Day.

The thirteenth day of May each year is designated as "Robert Smalls Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2023 Act No. 34 (H.3142), Section 1, eff May 16, 2023.

SECTION 53-3-280.Women in Hunting and Fishing Awareness Day.

The third Saturday in November of each year is designated as "Women in Hunting and Fishing Awareness Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2023 Act No. 42 (H.3868), Section 1, eff May 16, 2023.

Code Commissioner's Note

At the direction of the Code Commissioner, Section 53-3-270, as added by 2023 Act No. 42, Section 1, was redesignated as Section 53-3-280 to accommodate the addition of Section 53-3-270, added by 2023 Act No. 34, Section 1.

SECTION 53-3-290.Clog Dancing Day.

The eighth day of August of each year is designated as "Clog Dancing Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2023 Act No. 49 (H.4291), Section 1, eff May 16, 2023.

Code Commissioner's Note

At the direction of the Code Commissioner, Section 53-3-270, as added by 2023 Act No. 49, Section 1, was redesignated as Section 53-3-290 to accommodate the addition of Section 53-3-270, added by 2023 Act No. 34, Section 1.

SECTION 53-3-300.Water Professionals Day.

The first Monday of March of each year is designated as "Water Professionals Day" in South Carolina.

HISTORY: 2024 Act No. 105 (H.3799), Section 1, eff February 5, 2024.

Code Commissioner's Note

At the direction of the Code Commissioner, Section 53-3-270, as added by 2024 Act No. 105, Section 1, was redesignated as Section 53-3-300 to accommodate the addition of Section 53-3-270, added by 2023 Act No. 34, Section 1.

SECTION 53-3-310.Middle Level Education Month.

The month of March of each year is designated as "Middle Level Education Month" to recognize the importance of middle level education for students.

HISTORY: 2024 Act No. 110 (H.4352), Section 1, eff February 5, 2024.

Code Commissioner's Note

At the direction of the Code Commissioner, Section 53-3-270, as added by 2024 Act No. 110, Section 1, was redesignated as Section 53-3-310 to accommodate the addition of Section 53-3-270, added by 2023 Act No. 34, Section 1.

Editor's Note

2024 Act No. 110, preamble, provides as follows:

"Whereas, middle school, also known as intermediate school or junior high school, is an important time in a student's educational development. Students develop more critical thinking skills and begin to choose electives based on their personal interests; and

"Whereas, the middle school creates a positive environment for adolescents to develop socially, emotionally, psychologically, and academically; and

"Whereas, middle school students are on a journey to discover their identities as individuals. Guidance through communication is key, when dealing with young adults; and

"Whereas, the essential role that middle school education plays in the formative years of adolescents is contributed to the dedication and hard work of the middle school educators, administrators, and support personnel; and

"Whereas, middle school educators, parents, and guardians must provide students with proper orientation and supervision, ensuring all students will be college and career ready; and

"Whereas, middle school eighth-grade level is a critical year because testing at this grade level provides statistics of a student's ability to succeed; and

"Whereas, parents are less involved than they are in elementary school giving students more freedom and independence but also more responsibility. Students in middle school experience a more rigorous course load and can take advanced classes in subjects in which they excel; and

"Whereas, middle school is a significant time in every student's educational journey and deserves to be recognized for its importance. Now, therefore, [text of Act]."