S.0698

Military chaplains in South Carolina must be ordained and endorsed, and they have the privilege to refuse disclosing confidential communications.

The bill amends the South Carolina Code to add Section 25-1-180, establishing criteria for military chaplains. Chaplains must be properly ordained and endorsed by a recognized military-endorsing agency. They must also possess privileged communication with all militia members, authorized dependents, and authorized personnel. Chaplains may not disclose confidential communications made as formal acts of religion or matters of conscience. Neither a commander nor a court may require a chaplain to disclose such communications if a privilege exists. The act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.