South Carolina § 44-4-550 - Specimen collection and testing.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 44-4-550 — Specimen collection and testing., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 44-4-550. Specimen collection and testing.
(A)(1) DHEC may, for such period as the state of public health emergency exists, collect or cause to be collected specimens and perform tests on any person or animal, living or deceased, and acquire any previously collected specimens or test results that are reasonable and necessary to respond to the public health emergency.
(2) Specimens shall be collected only from those individuals who agree to have specimens collected or who agree to have tests performed.
(3) All specimens must be clearly marked.
(4) Specimen collection, handling, storage, and transport to the testing site must be performed in a manner that will reasonably preclude specimen contamination or adulteration and provide for the safe collection, storage, handling, and transport of the specimen.
(5) Any person authorized to collect specimens or perform tests must use chain of custody procedures to ensure proper recordkeeping, handling, labeling, and identification of specimens to be tested. This requirement applies to all specimens, including specimens collected using on-site testing kits.
(B) Any business, facility, or agency authorized to collect specimens or perform tests must provide such support as is reasonable and necessary to aid in a relevant criminal investigation.
HISTORY: 2002 Act No. 339, SECTION 24, eff July 2, 2002.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 44-4-550
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 44-4-550 cover?
Section 44-4-550 ("Specimen collection and testing.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Carolina § 44-4-550?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 44-4-550" (South Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 44-4-550 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.