Watch: Senate Continues Debate on Refugees Bill

Columbia , S.C. (WOLO) — On Thursday, the South Carolina senate continued debate on a bill that would affect refugees placed in South Carolina through the federal government’s resettlement program.

The bill mandates all refugees placed in the Palmetto State register with the Department of Social Services. It also creates a civil liability if a refugee would commit an act of terror and it requires that no state funding be used to assist refugees. However, senators dispute whether the bill is constitutional.

“What this bill does is it discriminates against people from specific countries so I think it’s unconstitutional in the broadest terms,” said Senator Brad Hutto.

“It’s unconstitutional to the citizens of South Carolina to bring in folks that come from a country that welcomes terror,” said Senator Kevin Bryant.

Senator Hutto disagrees with the bill and argues refugees should have access to funding for certain benefits.

“They deserve to have an education just like you’d want your family to have if you and your children became refugees,” said Senator Hutto.

While senators in favor of the bill say some portions of the bill are non-negotiable they say there is a chance they will reach a compromise on the issue of state funding.

“If we can come to some common ground on some various essential services such as law enforcement and education and if we can back away from food stamps and medicaid and all other benefits the refugees may take advantage of we might find some common ground,” said Senator Bryant.

The senate will continue their debate on the bill next week. Several amendments are on the table.