South Carolina § 9-9-5 - System prospectively closed.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 9-9-5 — System prospectively closed., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-9-5. System prospectively closed.
(A) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Retirement System for Members of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina (GARS) established pursuant to this chapter is closed to nonmembers and persons who otherwise would have been required or eligible to become members of GARS, instead shall join the South Carolina Retirement System or the State Optional Retirement Program in the manner provided by law.
(B) For purposes of this section, a "nonmember" is an individual first elected to serve in the General Assembly at or after the general election of 2012.
(C) Nothing in this section may be construed to alter or otherwise diminish the rights of persons who are active contributing members or special contributing members of the Retirement System for Members of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina or who are retired members of that system or who are beneficiaries of deceased members of that system.
HISTORY: 2012 Act No. 278, Pt II, SECTION 17, eff July 1, 2012.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 9-9-5
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 9-9-5 cover?
Section 9-9-5 ("System prospectively closed.") 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 § 9-9-5?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 9-9-5" (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 § 9-9-5 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.