SC House considers shifting monument decisions from cities to lawmakers

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– State lawmakers are considering a bill that would make it more difficult to alter or remove historical monuments, reviving debate over how the state preserves and interprets its past.

The proposal, dubbed the “Heritage Act 2.” would strengthen a 2000 law that already limits changes to monuments and memorials across the state.

Supporters say the measure is designed to protect historical sites from political influence, while critics argue it could restrict efforts to provide a fuller context about the people and events those monuments represent.

The bill is currently being debated in the South Carolina House.

With the legislative session scheduled to end May 14, it remains unclear whether lawmakers will pass the measure this year.