On February 17, 2026, South Carolina Governor John Smith signed an amendment to the state constitution that pertains to gun rights. The amendment, known as the Second Amendment Preservation Act, received overwhelming support from both the state House and Senate before being signed into law.The Second Amendment Preservation Act solidifies South Carolina's commitment to protecting the rights of its citizens to bear arms. The amendment explicitly states that the right to keep and bear arms is a fundamental individual right that cannot be infringed upon by the state government. It also prohibits any state or local government entity from passing laws or regulations that would restrict the right to bear arms in any way.Governor Smith praised the amendment, stating that it affirms the state's commitment to upholding the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. He emphasized that the amendment is not just about gun rights, but about safeguarding the liberties and freedoms of all South Carolinians.The signing of the Second Amendment Preservation Act comes at a time when gun rights and gun control have been hot-button issues across the country. Supporters of the amendment argue that it is necessary to protect citizens' rights to self-defense and to ensure that the government does not overstep its bounds in regulating firearms.However, critics of the amendment have raised concerns about the potential implications for public safety and the ability of law enforcement to effectively regulate firearms. Some worry that the amendment could lead to an increase in gun violence and make it more difficult to enforce gun laws in the state.Despite these criticisms, Governor Smith remains steadfast in his support for the Second Amendment Preservation Act, stating that it is a crucial step in preserving the rights and freedoms of South Carolina residents. The amendment is set to go into effect immediately, with state officials already beginning the process of implementing the new regulations outlined in the law.Overall, the signing of the Second Amendment Preservation Act marks a significant development in South Carolina constitutional law and sets the stage for continued debates and discussions on gun rights in the state.