South Carolina Merges Three Health Agencies into New Department

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Governor Henry McMaster has signed legislation consolidating three state agencies into a single entity, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. This move merges the Department of Mental Health, the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, and the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services.

The consolidation aims to address overlapping services and improve efficiency. Senator Tom Davis (R–Beaufort), a sponsor of the bill, noted that the current structure often leads to confusion among those seeking assistance. He stated that the reform is expected to enhance service delivery, reduce redundancy, and increase accountability.

Under the new structure, the department will be led by a director appointed by the governor, replacing the previous model where agency leaders reported to unelected boards. Governor McMaster emphasized that this change is intended to streamline leadership and make agencies more responsive to public needs.

The legislation takes effect immediately, with the transition process anticipated to span several months.