Subcommittee gives favorable report to bill shielding motorsports facilities from nuisance suits

The House General Laws Subcommittee on Wednesday gave a favorable report to H4706, a bill intended to prevent nuisance lawsuits against motorsports facilities that were lawfully established and remain in compliance with permitting and safety laws.

Chairman Case Britton opened the meeting and introduced the measure, saying the bill would protect racetracks built before nearby property transfers and operate in compliance with law. ‘‘If a motorsports facility was established lawfully and continues to operate in compliance with the law, it should not be forced out by newcomers,’’ said Tiara Hubbard, testifying for the Specialty Equipment Market Association and the Performance Racing Industry.

Industry witnesses and track owners described local economic impact and community services. Michael Cummings, identified as owner of Carolina Motorsports Park, said the facility operates roughly 200 days a year, provides first‑responder training, and requires substantial capital for upkeep — ‘‘it cost over $1,000,000 a mile to repave these tracks,’’ he told the subcommittee. Candace Robertson, owner of South Carolina Motorplex, described her track’s history since 1961 and recounted a recent developer zoning attempt to place homes adjacent to her facility.

Representative John McCravie said he supported moving the bill forward but urged a drafting change to clarify coverage applies to existing tracks rather than facilities that obtain permits and never construct a track. After discussion the committee ordered a roll call and announced that H4706 received a favorable report; the hearing recorded three ayes during the roll call announcement.

The legislation’s supporters told committee members the bill would provide stability to multigenerational, family‑owned motorsports businesses and help secure financing for large capital projects, while opponents or amendment proponents urged careful drafting to avoid creating perverse incentives for unbuilt, permitted projects.

The subcommittee did not take additional amendments at this meeting. Documents and testimony submitted for the record were requested to be filed with the subcommittee clerk.