Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits payment card networks from requiring or incentivizing the use of a merchant category code (MCC) in a way that distinguishes firearms retailers from other retailers in South Carolina.

Highlights:

• Defines "merchant category code" as the code, approved by the international organization for standardization of firearm retailers, that is assigned to a retailer based on the types of goods and services offered to a retailer's customers (Sec. 1).

• Defines "covered entity" as an entity, or agent of an entity, that establishes a relationship with a retailer for the purpose of processing credit, debit, or prepaid transactions (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits any government entity or official from knowingly creating or recording a list of privately owned firearms or their owners, except when it is part of a criminal investigation (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits payment card networks or covered entities from using merchant category codes to distinguish firearm retailers from other types of retailers (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes the South Carolina Attorney General to investigate violations and enforce the law, including issuing cease-and-desist notices and seeking court injunctions (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes courts to issue civil fines up to $1,000 if an entity fails to comply and continues illegal practices after 30 days of being ordered to stop (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that this act is effective upon passage (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text