Caucus Press Release: GOP Gives Grand Jury Environmental Powers
Apr 6, 2005
Majority Leader Merrill
SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS / MEDIA OFFICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
COLUMBIA -- The state grand jury will have the power to investigate environmental crimes under a bill proposed by Majority Leader Jim Merrill and approved by the House Wednesday.
"This is much-needed legislation that will give the state new power to prosecute those who do intentional damage to the environment," Merrill said. "This bill is long overdue."
By a vote of 100-2, the bill received second reading. It gives the grand jury the power to investigate environmental crimes, react to potential terrorist threats and enforce South Carolina's rules without relying on the federal government.
Environmental investigations have traditionally been the domain of the Department of Health and Environmental Control. The grand jury has broader powers, mainly the ability to subpoena information.
"I'm very pleased by the manner in which disparate groups came together to find common ground on this bill," Merrill said.
The bill was amended so to trigger an investigation by the grand jury, a crime must be willful and have more than $3 million in anticipated damage. Investigations would still be conducted using DHEC's expertise.
The bill has been endorsed by Attorney General Henry McMaster.
"Currently, state prosecutors are helpless to investigate and prosecute environmental crimes using standard police techniques," the Attorney General said. "Thanks to the leadership of the House and Representative Merrill, we are one step closer to protecting our health, safety and natural heritage."
The bill will receive a routine third reading Thursday. A similar bill was approved by the Senate a few weeks ago.
For More Information:
Majority Leader Jim Merrill
(803) 734-3138
-30-
Click for a PDF copy of this press release.
|
