TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "STATE HEALTH CARE FREEDOM ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-285 SO AS TO NOT ELECT TO ESTABLISH OR OPERATE AN AMERICAN HEALTH BENEFIT EXCHANGE AS PROVIDED FOR IN THE FEDERAL "PATIENT PROTECTION AND AFFORDABLE CARE ACT" OF 2010.

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

SECTION    1. This act shall be known as the 'State Health Care Freedom Act'.

SECTION 2. Chapter 71, Title 38 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 38-71-285.    The State shall not elect to establish or operate an American Health Benefit Exchange as provided for in the federal 'Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act' of 2010."

SECTION    3.    This act takes effect upon signature of the Governor.