COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Committee on Children unveiled its annual report on Thursday, spotlighting critical issues affecting children, including sex trafficking and online safety.
The annual report, shaped by extensive testimony from teachers, parents, students, and advocates across the state, often leads to legislative changes at the State House.
"Protecting our children is our number one goal,” said Deputy Solicitor Bronwyn McElveen.
According to the latest report, child sex trafficking cases are increasing, with 357 cases involving 460 children, with 90% of them related to sex trafficking.
McElveen highlighted the need to extend legal protections for children involved in nonviolent offenses due to trafficking.
Another major issue outlined in the report is the threat of AI-generated child sexual abuse material.
"They are creating AI-generated images of minors that don't really exist, but they are used to produce child pornography. We have to address this unique issue."
The report also highlighted the lack of oversight for guardians ad litem in private cases, raising concerns about potential loopholes for individuals seeking access to children.
The committee also wants to require childcare employees to be certified in first aid CPR, or SafeSleep.
"We're one of the few states that do not require all caregivers to have essential training," said Rep. Beth Bernstein.
Other priorities outlined in the report include reducing the state's high maternal mortality and eviction rates.
According to the report, eviction rates for adults living with children are double the rates of adults living alone.
South Carolina is among the few states that do not require mothers to be screened for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, according to the report. Several initiatives include working with pediatric practices to incorporate screening and using alternative forms of screening, such as by text and phone.
McElveen noted a new intensive drug for postpartum mood and anxiety orders, which was tested in South Carolina.
“With a 14-day pill without hospitalization is key, both for the mother and the child in the bonding phases and throughout the state. It helps everybody,” said McElveen.
In recent years, the report has played a crucial role in passing laws to improve South Carolina's adoption and fostering processes, guarantee paid family leave for state employees, and implement more regulations around vaping.
In recent years, the report helped pass laws to improve South Carolina's adoption and fostering processes, guarantee paid family leave for state employees, and put more regulations around vaping.