S.C. Code Ann. § 9-1-1940

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person whose membership in the South Carolina Retirement System became effective on or after January 1, 1951, and who had twenty or more years creditable service performed prior to July 1, 1945, shall receive the benefits and come under the provisions of Section 9-1-1920, Code of Laws of South Carolina, 1976, as amended.