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H 5543

Col. Walter Todd Exit

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Beth Bernstein and 1 co-sponsor

Requests SCDOT name I-26 Exit 54 in Laurens County as Col. Walter Blakely Todd Memorial Exit with markers, acknowledging his military and public service.

Referred to Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions
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Bill Summary · H 5543

Summary of Bill H 5543 (Session 2025-2026, South Carolina)

Title

Col. Walter Todd Exit

Type and Procedural Status

  • Type: Concurrent Resolution
  • Purpose: Request action by the Department of Transportation (SCDOT)
  • Introduced: 2026-04-16
  • Referred to: Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions
  • Sponsors: Primary (none listed); Co-sponsors: Rep. Doug Gilliam, Rep. Beth Bernstein

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill requests that the South Carolina Department of Transportation name Interstate Highway 26 Exit 54 in Laurens County as the “Col. Walter Blakely Todd Memorial Exit” and place appropriate markers or signs bearing this designation at that location.
  • It honors Colonel Walter Blakely Todd, U.S. Army (Ret.), in recognition of his military service, public service, and community leadership.

Key Provisions

  • Formal Request to SCDOT: The General Assembly asks the Department to designate Exit 54 (I-26) in Laurens County as “Col. Walter Blakely Todd Memorial Exit.”
  • Signage Requirement: The designation should be accompanied by appropriate markers or signs at the exit bearing the memorial name.
  • Official Communication: A copy of the resolution would be sent to the Department of Transportation to implement or consider the designation.

Who/What Is Affected

  • Government/Agency: South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is the primary agency involved, as the body with authority to name highway exits and place markers.
  • Geographic Area: Interstate 26 Exit 54 in Laurens County, South Carolina.
  • Memorialization: Recognition of Col. Walter Blakely Todd, a retired U.S. Army officer and notable public servant in South Carolina.

Background on Honoree (Context Provided in Bill)

  • Col. Walter Blakely Todd had a long military career, participating in World War II (Normandy landing), Korea, and Vietnam, with various command and staff roles.
  • He received multiple military decorations (e.g., Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Air Medal, campaign medals).
  • After military service, he held public service roles in South Carolina, including positions within state government and community colleges, and was awarded the Order of the Palmetto.
  • The bill provides a biographical overview to justify the memorial designation.

Timelines and Process Considerations

  • The bill is a concurrent resolution, meaning it expresses the sentiment of both chambers but does not, by itself, create binding law. It requests action by SCDOT.
  • If/as adopted, SCDOT would determine the feasibility, process, and precise timing for implementing the naming and signage.
  • The resolution would also likely require any standard state procedures for naming roads/exits and for erecting official markers.

Potential Impact

  • Honor and recognition of Col. Todd's legacy at a specific interstate exit.
  • Public awareness of his service among travelers and residents.
  • Minor, non-monetary administrative action by SCDOT to modify signage and official designations at Exit 54, subject to SCDOT criteria and standards.

Note: This summary reflects the bill’s stated purpose and proposed action. It does not alter existing law but seeks to procure a commemorative designation through agency action.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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