House Ethics to refund former candidates’ fines

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The House Ethics Committee is refunding fines imposed on former candidates who were tossed from primary ballots following a state Supreme Court ruling.

The committee voted unanimously Tuesday to refund fines issued to since-decertified candidates for not filing financial disclosure forms on time.

Ethics Chairman Roland Smith says fines starting at $100 are automatically issued when the deadline passes. Some disputed candidates paid the fines. Smith was unsure of the number fined or total collected. He says it’s only fair to return the money.

Nearly 200 candidates were tossed from the June 12 ballots after justices ruled state law requires those seeking office to turn in financial disclosure forms when they file their candidacy. That includes dozens for House and Senate seats.

The Election Commission is refunding their filing fees.