S.C. Code Ann. § 12-4-30: Appointment of director; disposition of contested cases.

(A) The department is governed in matters of policy and administration by a director appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The director may be removed from office pursuant to the provisions of Section 1-3-240.

(B) All contested cases, as defined by Section 1-23-310 must be heard by an administrative law judge pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 23 of Title 1.