Workplace Issues in South Carolina
Key South Carolina Law
South Carolina Code Section 1-13-80 (South Carolina Human Affairs Law)
South Carolina's Human Affairs Law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, age (40+), national origin, or disability. It applies to employers with 15 or more employees and is administered by the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission.
View official statuteProcedural Details in South Carolina
South Carolina Agencies & Resources
South Carolina Human Affairs Commission
Investigates employment discrimination complaints under the Human Affairs Law. File within 180 days of the discriminatory act.
South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
Handles wage payment complaints, workers' compensation, and some labor standards enforcement.
EEOC Charlotte District Office
Handles federal employment discrimination charges for South Carolina workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in South Carolina?
Under the South Carolina Human Affairs Law, workers have 180 days from the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission. EEOC dual-filing extends the federal window to 300 days. After investigation, workers may request a right-to-sue notice to file in federal court.
What is the minimum wage in South Carolina?
South Carolina follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. South Carolina has no state minimum wage law above the federal floor and prohibits local governments from enacting higher minimum wages.
Does South Carolina protect sexual orientation in employment?
South Carolina's Human Affairs Law does not expressly protect sexual orientation or gender identity. Workers may rely on the federal Bostock v. Clayton County interpretation of Title VII for federal protections.
What wrongful termination protections exist in South Carolina?
South Carolina courts recognize a narrow public policy exception to at-will employment — an employer cannot fire a worker for exercising a legally protected right or for reasons that violate a clearly expressed statutory public policy. Workers who are fired for filing workers' compensation claims or for jury duty may have wrongful termination claims. The exception is narrow and tied to specific statutory policy.
Related Workplace Issues Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.
Have a Specific Situation in South Carolina?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.