Local Politics

Following $3.5B error, lawmakers want SC's top accountant to become appointed job

This push from senators follows the ongoing unraveling of a $3.5 billion accounting error made over the course of years in the comptroller's office, which had been unintentionally double-counting money sent to colleges and universities.

Posted 2024-03-31T12:45:13+00:00 - Updated 2024-03-31T12:45:13+00:00

WIS

South Carolina lawmakers are looking to give the governor power to pick South Carolina’s top accountant, a position currently chosen by voters.

This week, senators unanimously passed a resolution to make the comptroller general an appointed position instead of an elected one.

The question will appear on the ballot this year if House members also pass that resolution. Then a majority of voters would have to approve it for that change to be enacted because it requires altering the state constitution.

This push from senators follows the ongoing unraveling of a $3.5 billion accounting error made over the course of years in the comptroller’s office, which had been unintentionally double-counting money sent to colleges and universities.