South Carolina’s first responders put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe, and their families share in that sacrifice every step of the way. If their loved one is tragically killed in the line of duty, the family’s impact begins immediately and lasts a lifetime.
Here’s your quick update on several bills related to first responders and their families currently moving through the State House. Bill status current as of 2/17/26.
1) Continued health coverage for surviving first responder families: These bills address the gap that families can face when employer-sponsored coverage ends after a line-of-duty death. H.5139 and S.850 are identical companion bills introduced in both chambers to help the measure move more quickly.
H.5139, the Honor Our First Responders Act
- STATUS: House Ways and Means Committee
S.850, Honor our First Responders Act
- STATUS: Finance Committee
2) Gold Shield Day designation
S.868 was recently introduced in the Senate. If enacted, it would designate June 1 as Gold Shield Day. A formal designation matters because it creates a consistent, statewide moment of recognition, helps keep public awareness focused on the sacrifices made by first responder families, and encourages communities, schools, and organizations to honor those families in a meaningful and visible way each year. It affirms our values and makes clear that South Carolina sees these families and will never forget their sacrifice.
S.868, Gold Shield Day Designation
- STATUS: Senate floor for a vote.
With the General Assembly in session, this is an important time for lawmakers to hear from constituents about the challenges facing first responder families. As these bills move forward, awareness and thoughtful engagement from community members across South Carolina will be important.
Public contact information for South Carolina legislators is available here.
Thank you for staying informed. As always, in the great State of South Carolina, we value those who serve.
