LGBT rights in South Carolina | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Status | Legal since 2003 (Lawrence v. Texas) |
| Gender identity | Altering sex on birth certificate does not require sex reassignment surgery |
| Discrimination protections | None statewide except in employment June 15, 2020 |
| Family rights | |
| Recognition of relationships | Same-sex marriage since 2014 |
| Adoption | Same-sex couples allowed to adopt |
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in the U.S. state of South Carolina may face some legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Same-sex sexual activity is legal in South Carolina as a result of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Lawrence v. Texas, although the state legislature has not repealed its sodomy laws. Same-sex couples and families headed by same-sex couples are eligible for all of the protections available to opposite-sex married couples.[1] However, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity is not banned statewide.
In February 2017, South Carolina voters elected their first openly gay lawmaker to the South Carolina House of Representatives. Jason Elliott represents the 22nd District (which includes part of Greenville) and is a member of the Republican Party.[2]
- ^ Hurley, Lawrence (November 20, 2014). "Supreme Court allows gay marriage to proceed in South Carolina". Reuters. Retrieved February 16, 2023.
- ^ "Jason Elliott, South Carolina's First Openly Gay Lawmaker, Believes State Is Changing". On Top Magazine. February 5, 2017. Retrieved February 16, 2023.