South Carolina General Assembly
114th Session, 2001-2002
Journal of the House of Representatives


Printed Page 4251 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Wednesday, June 5, 2002
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The House assembled at 10:00 a.m.
Deliberations were opened with prayer by Rev. Charles E. Seastrunk, Jr. as follows:

Our thought for the day is from Psalm 107: "O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good."
Lord God of all nations, You have revealed Your will to Your people and promised Your help to us all. Help us to hear and do what You command that those who govern may serve with humility and with genuine concern for all people. You have chosen these women and men to serve. Guide them to make the right decisions and do the right thing. Hear our prayer, O God. Amen.

Pursuant to Rule 6.3, the House of Representatives was led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America by the SPEAKER.

After corrections to the Journal of the proceedings of yesterday, the SPEAKER ordered it confirmed.

MOTION ADOPTED

Rep. VAUGHN moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Doug Brister of Greenville, which was agreed to.

SILENT PRAYER

The House stood in silent prayer for Representative Alex Harvin who is in the hospital.

SILENT PRAYER

The House stood in silent prayer for former Representative Brenda Council of Orangeburg who is in the hospital.


Printed Page 4252 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

S. 887--COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE APPOINTED

The following was received from the Senate:

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

Columbia, S.C., May 30, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon its amendments to S. 887:

S. 887 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Ryberg, Gregory, Hutto, Matthews, Short and Moore: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 4-10-320, 4-10-330, AND 4-10-340, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE COMMISSION CREATED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF A COUNTY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CAPITAL PROJECTS SALES TAX ACT, THE REFERENDUM REQUIRED BEFORE THE TAX MAY BE IMPOSED, AND THE DATE THE TAX IS IMPOSED AND TERMINATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMISSION SHALL RECOMMEND THE WORDING OF THE REFERENDUM QUESTION TO THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE COUNTY WHICH MAY ALTER THIS RECOMMENDED WORDING ONLY BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE AND PROVIDE WHAT CONSTITUTES A TWO-THIRDS VOTE, TO PROVIDE FOR A REVISED DATE FOR THE REFERENDUM IN CASES OF A SUBSEQUENT IMPOSITION OF THE TAX AND DELETE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUATION OF THE TAX WITHOUT INTERRUPTION IN A SUBSEQUENT IMPOSITION, AND TO REVISE THE FACTORS FOR DETERMINING THE TERMINATION OF THE TAX.
and asks for a Committee of Conference and has appointed Senators Hayes, Pinckney and Courson of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate.

Very respectfully,
President

Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. MCCRAW, VAUGHN and J. R. SMITH to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.


Printed Page 4253 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5409 (Word version) -- Rep. Littlejohn: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND DR. TOM ABBOTT FOR HIS OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE AS PRINCIPAL OF COWPENS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND TO WISH HIM MANY YEARS OF HEALTH AND HAPPINESS UPON HIS RETIREMENT.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

ROLL CALL

The roll call of the House of Representatives was taken resulting as follows:

Allison                Altman                 Bales
Barfield               Barrett                Battle
Bingham                Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, J.              Brown, R.              Campsen
Carnell                Cato                   Chellis
Clyburn                Coates                 Cobb-Hunter
Coleman                Cooper                 Dantzler
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Emory                  Fleming                Freeman
Frye                   Gilham                 Gourdine
Hamilton               Harrell                Harrison
Haskins                Hayes                  Hines, J.
Hinson                 Hosey                  Howard
Huggins                Jennings               Keegan
Kelley                 Kennedy                Kirsh
Koon                   Law                    Leach
Littlejohn             Lloyd                  Loftis
Lourie                 Lucas                  Mack
Martin                 McCraw                 McGee
McLeod                 Meacham-Richardson     Merrill
Miller                 Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Ott                    Owens                  Parks
Perry                  Phillips               Rice
Riser                  Rivers                 Rodgers
Sandifer               Scarborough            Scott
Sharpe                 Sheheen                Simrill

Printed Page 4254 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Sinclair               Smith, D.C.            Smith, F.N.
Smith, J.E.            Smith, J.R.            Smith, W.D.
Snow                   Stille                 Stuart
Talley                 Taylor                 Thompson
Townsend               Trotter                Vaughn
Walker                 Webb                   White
Wilder                 Wilkins                Witherspoon
Young, A.              Young, J.

STATEMENT OF ATTENDANCE

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Wednesday, June 5.

Karl Allen                        William Bowers
Mack Hines                        Bessie Moody-Lawrence
Bill Cotty                        H.B. "Chip" Limehouse
Thomas Rhoad                      David Weeks
Seth Whipper                      Denny Neilson
Todd Rutherford                   Daniel Tripp
Ralph Davenport                   G. Murrell Smith
Richard Quinn                     Jerry Govan
Brenda Lee

Total Present--118

DOCTOR OF THE DAY

Announcement was made that Dr. Jerry Reves of Charleston is the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

STATEMENTS BY REPS. WALKER AND W. D. SMITH

Reps. WALKER and W. D. SMITH made statements relative to Rep. ALLISON'S service in the House.

STATEMENT BY REP. ALLISON

Rep. ALLISON made a statement relative to her service in the House.

MOTION NOTED

Rep. G. BROWN moved to reconsider the vote whereby Veto No. 5 was overridden on H. 4878 and the motion was noted.


Printed Page 4255 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

H. 4337--RECONSIDERED, SENATE AMENDMENTS AMENDED AND RETURNED TO THE SENATE

Rep. PERRY moved to reconsider the vote whereby the Senate Amendments to the following Bill were amended, which was agreed to:

H. 4337 (Word version) -- Reps. Campsen, Chellis, Barfield, Harrell and Easterday: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3910, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DUE DATES FOR QUARTERLY PAYMENTS OF ESTIMATED STATE INCOME TAX BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ESTIMATED INCOME TAX PAYMENT REFORM ACT", SO AS TO CHANGE THE DUE DATE FOR THE FIRST CORPORATE INCOME TAX ESTIMATED PAYMENT FROM MARCH 15 TO APRIL 15.

Rep. PERRY proposed the following Amendment No. 5A (Doc Name COUNCIL\NBD\AMEND\11836AC02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
/SECTION   __.   A.   Section 12-6-1140(10) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(10)   three hundred dollars for taxable year 1999 and three thousand dollars for taxable year 2000 for a volunteer firefighter, or rescue squad member, or volunteer member of a Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Response Team not otherwise eligible for this exemption. For taxable years after 2000, the Board of Economic Advisors annually shall estimate a maximum deduction that may be permitted under this section for a taxable year based on an individual income tax revenue loss of three million one hundred thousand dollars attributable to this deduction and shall certify that maximum deduction to the Department of Revenue and for the applicable taxable year, the maximum deduction amount must not exceed the lesser of the certified estimate or three thousand dollars. Only a volunteer earning a minimum number of points pursuant to Section 23-9-190 is eligible for this deduction."
B.   Section 23-9-190 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 100 of 1999, is amended to read:

"Section 23-9-190.   (A)   The State Fire Marshal shall establish a performance-based point system for volunteer firefighters, and volunteer rescue squad members, and volunteer members of a Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Response Team. Members receiving annually a minimum number of points set by the Fire Marshal are


Printed Page 4256 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

eligible for the deduction allowed pursuant to Section 12-6-1140. Points must be awarded for a year as follows:

(1)   Participation in approved training, including:

(a)   Certified interior firefighter;

(b)   Emergency vehicle driver training;

(c)   Pump operations;

(d)   Incident command systems;

(e)   Rural water supply;

(f)   Automobile extrication;

(g)   Certified instructor training;

(h)   Certified inspector training;

( i)   Certified public fire education training;

( j)   Officer training.;

(k)   HAZMAT operations;

( l)   HAZMAT technician;

(m)   HAZMAT specialist.

(2)   Possessing a commercial or Class E drivers license;

(3)   Participation in first aid/medical training such as:

(a)   First responder;

(b)   EMT--basic;

(c)   EMT--intermediate;

(d)   Paramedic.

(4)   Participation in public fire education programs;

(5)   Attendance at meetings;

(6)   Station staffing; and

(7)   Volunteer response.

(B)   The Fire Marshal shall, in consultation with the South Carolina State Firemen's Association and in the case of volunteer HAZMAT Teams, county emergency services directors:

(1)   Develop a standardized form and recordkeeping system and provide a master copy of all information and forms to each fire department, and rescue squad, and HAZMAT Response Team in the State;

(2)   Provide training to the various fire chiefs or rescue squad leaders and county emergency services directors on the use of the forms and the outline of the program;

(3)   Advertise the availability of the program.

(C)   The local fire chief/rescue squad leader and county emergency services director shall:


Printed Page 4257 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(1)   Provide written records to each member by January 31 of the year following the applicable tax year that shows the points obtained by each member for the previous tax year;

(2)   Maintain a copy of records for each member for at least seven years;

(3)   Certify the report for each member; and

(4)   Provide to the Department of Revenue by January 31 of the year following the applicable tax year copies of the records forwarded to members pursuant to item (1) of this subsection. Each member's social security number must be included in the copies forwarded to the department."
C.   Section 12-6-1140(9) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(9)   DELETED Three thousand dollars for a person serving as a reserve police officer. For purposes of this item, a reserve police officer is a person eligible to perform police functions under the provisions of Chapter 28 of Title 23 who, during the applicable taxable year, actually performed police functions. The department may require the taxpayer to provide the documentation necessary to determine eligibility for this deduction."
D.   Notwithstanding the general effective date of this act, this section takes effect upon approval by the Governor and applies for taxable years beginning after 2003./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. PERRY explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The Senate amendments, as amended, were then agreed to and the Bill was ordered returned to the Senate.

ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Joint Resolutions were read the third time, passed and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title of each be changed to that of an Act, and that they be enrolled for ratification:

S. 1313 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Gregory and Short: A JOINT RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF YORK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 (FORT MILL) TO IMPOSE


Printed Page 4258 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

AN ADDITIONAL PROPERTY TAX NOT TO EXCEED FOUR MILLS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2002-2003 ONLY.

S. 1303 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL CERTIFICATION, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2683, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

S. 721--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 721 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 6, TITLE 61, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ALCOHOL BEVERAGE CONTROL ACT, SO AS TO ADD SECTION 61-6-710, ESTABLISHING A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE TO BE ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE FOR A PERSON WHO MANUFACTURES FOOD ITEMS SUCH AS SAUCES AND MARINADES IN WHICH THERE IS AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE INGREDIENT AND WHO DOES SO UNDER AN AGREEMENT WITH THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE MANUFACTURER, AND TO ALLOW THE PURCHASE OF THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE IN CONTAINERS HOLDING QUANTITIES GREATER THAN THE QUANTITIES SOLD TO THE CONSUMER, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MUST ESTABLISH THE FORM OF APPLICATION AND CONDITIONS FOR ISSUANCE OF THE LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-33-210, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TAXES ON LICENSES ISSUED UNDER TITLE 61, SO AS TO INCLUDE A TAX FOR THE SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-2-175, RELATING TO SHIPPING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES INTO THE STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY BE SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO A RESIDENT WHO HOLDS A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2900, RELATING TO THE SHIPMENT OR TRANSFER OF IMPORTED ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY BE SHIPPED TO A PERSON


Printed Page 4259 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

HOLDING A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-4050, RELATING TO THE PURCHASE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS FROM LICENSED RETAIL DEALERS SO AS TO ADD ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS PURCHASED PURSUANT TO A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE.

Rep. J. YOUNG proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\AMEND\9241HTC02):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
/ SECTION   __.   A.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 61-6-1035.   Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 61-6-1500, the sampling of wines containing over sixteen percent by volume of alcohol, cordials, and other distilled spirits sold in a retail alcoholic liquor store is authorized if the sampling is conducted as follows:

(1)     No sample may be offered from more than four products at any one time.

(2)     No more than one bottle of each of the four products to be sampled may be opened.

(3)     The sampling must be held in a designated tasting area of the retail liquor store and all open bottles must be visible at all times. All open bottles must be removed at the conclusion of the tasting.

(4)     Samples must be less than one-half ounce for each product sampled.

(5)     No person may be served more than one sample of each product.

(6)     No sampling may be offered for longer than four hours.

(7)     At least ten days before the sampling, a letter detailing the specific date and hours of the sampling must be mailed first class to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

(8)     No sample may be offered to, or allowed to be consumed by, an intoxicated person or a person under the age of twenty-one years. This person must not be allowed to loiter on the store premises.

(9)     The tastings must be conducted by the manufacturer or an agent of the manufacturer, and must not be conducted by a wholesaler, retailer, or employee of a wholesaler or retailer.

(10)     No retail alcoholic liquor store may offer more than one sampling per day.
B.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:


Printed Page 4260 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"Section 61-6-1560.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a retail dealer, wholesaler, or producer may offer discounts on alcoholic liquors or nonalcoholic items through the use of premiums, coupons, or stamps redeemable by mail." /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. J. YOUNG explained the amendment.

Reps. LOFTIS, COATES, KELLEY, EASTERDAY, WHITE, J. BROWN, WILDER, SNOW and HAYES requested debate on the Bill.

S. 410--RECOMMITTED

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 410 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Bauer, Mescher, Holland, Ryberg, Ford, Wilson, Leatherman, J. V. Smith, Verdin, Hutto, Reese, Passailaigue, Leventis, Alexander, Gregory, McConnell, Waldrep, Giese, Martin, Drummond, Moore, Anderson, Land, McGill, Ritchie, Elliott, Glover, Pinckney, Hawkins, Branton and Fair: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 1, TITLE 8, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PUBLIC OFFICERS, BY ADDING SECTION 8-1-135 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OF A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION IS NOT CONSIDERED A DUAL OFFICEHOLDER FOR THE PURPOSES OF SECTION 3, ARTICLE VI OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, IF HE HOLDS AN OFFICE IN ANOTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION.

Rep. MCLEOD proposed the following Amendment No. 2 (Doc Name COUNCIL\SWB\AMEND\5478ZCW02):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 2 in its entirety and inserting:
/SECTION   2.   Section 8-1-130 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-1-130.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for purposes of the prohibition against holding two offices of honor or profit provided in the Constitution of this State, the prohibition does not apply to:

(1)   officers in the militia;

(2)   notaries public;


Printed Page 4261 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(3)   Any member members of a lawfully and regularly organized fire department,;

(4)   constable constables, including constables who are serving as school board members; or

(5)   delegates to a constitutional convention." /
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 3 in its entirety and inserting:
/SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. MCLEOD explained the amendment.

Rep. MCLEOD spoke in favor of the amendment.

Rep. ALTMAN moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Judiciary, which was agreed to.

ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Joint Resolution was taken up, read the second time, and ordered to a third reading:

S. 1259 (Word version) -- Senator Fair: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA COVENANT MARRIAGE STUDY COMMITTEE, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP, SCOPE OF STUDY, AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, AND TO ABOLISH THE STUDY COMMITTEE UPON SUBMISSION OF ITS REPORT.

Rep. EASTERDAY explained the Joint Resolution.

H. 5202--CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED

CONFERENCE REPORT
H. 5202
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 4, 2002

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 5202 (Word version) -- Reps. Miller, Snow, Kelley, Barfield, Harvin and Kennedy: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO CREATE A COMMITTEE COMPOSED OF APPOINTEES MADE BY THE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS REPRESENTING HORRY, GEORGETOWN,


Printed Page 4262 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

AND WILLIAMSBURG COUNTIES TO STUDY THE ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH THE DELIVERY OF WATER AND SEWER SERVICES TO THE USERS IN THESE THREE COUNTIES WITH THE FOCUS OF THE STUDY BEING ON THE FEASIBILITY OF ESTABLISHING A THREE-COUNTY REGIONAL WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY.

Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/   SECTION   1.   (A)   There is established the Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg Counties Water and Sewer Study Committee composed of fifteen members. Five members must be appointed by the legislative delegations representing Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg Counties. In making the appointments, consideration should be given to appointing persons with knowledge and expertise in the delivery of water and sewer services in the three-county area.

(B)   The committee shall meet as soon as practicable after appointment and shall organize itself by electing one of its members as chairman and such other officers as the committee may consider necessary.

(C)   The committee shall study:

(1)   the issues associated with the delivery of water and sewer services to the users in Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg Counties;

(2)   the problems confronting counties, municipalities, special purpose districts, and public service districts in Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg Counties in the delivery of water and sewer services which have resulted from rapid growth and development of recent years;

(3)   all phases of the delivery of water and sewer services in the three-county area give adequate consideration to long-range planning in order to facilitate the orderly delivery of water and sewer services to the users in the three-county area; and

(4)   the feasibility of establishing a regional water and sewer authority comprising the entities presently providing water and sewer services in Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg Counties.


Printed Page 4263 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(D)   The committee shall make a report to the legislative delegations representing Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg Counties no later than March 1, 2003, at which time the committee shall dissolve.

SECTION   2.   This joint resolution takes effect upon approval by the Governor.   /

Amend title to read:
/ A JOINT RESOLUTION TO CREATE A COMMITTEE COMPOSED OF APPOINTEES MADE BY THE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS REPRESENTING HORRY, GEORGETOWN, AND WILLIAMSBURG COUNTIES TO STUDY THE ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH THE DELIVERY OF WATER AND SEWER SERVICES TO THE USERS IN THESE THREE COUNTIES WITH THE FOCUS OF THE STUDY BEING ON THE FEASIBILITY OF ESTABLISHING A THREE-COUNTY REGIONAL WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY. /

Thomas C. Alexander               Vida O. Miller
Luke A. Rankin                    Liston D. Barfield
Arthur Ravenel, Jr.               John J. "Bubber" Snow
On Part of the Senate.            On Part of the House.

Rep. MILLER explained the Conference Report.

The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 5202--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Joint Resolution having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act and that it be enrolled for ratification.

S. 873--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE WITHDRAWN AND REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

Upon the withdrawal of requests for debate by Reps. J. R. SMITH, HARRELL, SCARBOROUGH, COOPER, LUCAS, SINCLAIR, BALES, WITHERSPOON, HARRISON, SHARPE and MCGEE the following Bill was taken up:


Printed Page 4264 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

S. 873 (Word version) -- Senators Glover, Ford, McGill, Anderson, Patterson, O'Dell, Hutto, Land, Short, Holland, Leventis and Moore: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 8-21-310, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SCHEDULE OF FEES AND COSTS TO BE COLLECTED IN EACH COUNTY BY CLERKS OF COURT, REGISTERS OF DEEDS, OR COUNTY TREASURERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR UNIFORM FEE INCREASES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-24-90, RELATING TO THE CALCULATION OF THE DOCUMENTARY STAMP FEES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE COUNTY'S PORTION OF THE DOCUMENTARY STAMP FEE.

Rep. J. R. SMITH explained the Bill.

Rep. ALTMAN moved to table the Bill.

Rep. J. R. SMITH demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 16; Nays 89

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Altman                 Campsen                Coates
Delleney               Easterday              Hamilton
Kirsh                  Leach                  Loftis
Lucas                  Meacham-Richardson     Neilson
Scarborough            Simrill                Weeks
White

Total--16

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allison                Bales                  Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bingham
Bowers                 Brown, G.              Brown, J.
Brown, R.              Cato                   Chellis
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Coleman
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Edge                   Emory                  Fleming
Freeman                Frye                   Gilham
Gourdine               Harrell                Harrison
Haskins                Hayes                  Hines, J.

Printed Page 4265 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Hines, M.              Hinson                 Hosey
Howard                 Huggins                Jennings
Keegan                 Kennedy                Koon
Law                    Limehouse              Littlejohn
Lloyd                  Lourie                 Mack
Martin                 McCraw                 McGee
McLeod                 Merrill                Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Ott                    Parks                  Perry
Phillips               Quinn                  Rhoad
Rice                   Riser                  Rivers
Rodgers                Rutherford             Sandifer
Scott                  Sheheen                Sinclair
Smith, D.C.            Smith, F.N.            Smith, J.E.
Smith, J.R.            Smith, W.D.            Snow
Stille                 Stuart                 Talley
Taylor                 Thompson               Townsend
Trotter                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   Wilkins                Witherspoon
Young, A.              Young, J.

Total--89

So, the House refused to table the Bill.

Reps. KIRSH, ALTMAN, WEEKS, COATES and MEACHAM-RICHARDSON requested debate on the Bill.

R. 373, H. 4878--VETO 4 -- DEBATE ADJOURNED ON MOTION TO RECONSIDER,
VETO 6 -- RECONSIDERED AND OVERRIDDEN,
VETOES 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 -- CONTINUED, VETOES 9 AND 13 -- SUSTAINED

The Veto on the following Act was taken up:

(R373) H. 4878 -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING, JULY 1, 2002; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE


Printed Page 4266 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THE FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

VETO 4-- DEBATE ADJOURNED ON THE MOTION TO RECONSIDER

Veto #4. The Senate, page 227, Section 54A, Item "Other Operating Expenses General Funds $1,920,848."

The motion of Rep. HARRELL to reconsider the vote whereby Veto No. 4 was overridden was taken up.

Rep. HARRELL moved to adjourn debate on the motion to reconsider, which was agreed to.

VETO 6--RECONSIDERED AND OVERRIDDEN

Veto #6. Legislative Department, page 379, Section 54.23, "Legislative Carry Forward."

The motion of Rep. BALES to reconsider the vote whereby Veto No. 6 was sustained was taken up.

Rep. BALES moved to table the motion to reconsider.

Rep. HARRELL demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 40; Nays 63

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Bales                  Battle                 Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, R.
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Coleman
Emory                  Freeman                Gourdine
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hines, M.
Hosey                  Jennings               Kennedy
Lloyd                  Lourie                 Mack
McCraw                 McLeod                 Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Ott                    Parks                  Phillips
Rhoad                  Rivers                 Rutherford
Sheheen                Smith, F.N.            Smith, J.E.

Printed Page 4267 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Snow                   Weeks                  Whipper
Wilder

Total--40

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allison                Altman                 Barfield
Barrett                Bingham                Campsen
Cato                   Chellis                Cooper
Cotty                  Dantzler               Delleney
Easterday              Edge                   Frye
Gilham                 Hamilton               Harrell
Harrison               Haskins                Hinson
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Kirsh                  Koon                   Law
Leach                  Limehouse              Loftis
Lucas                  McGee                  Meacham-Richardson
Merrill                Neilson                Owens
Perry                  Rice                   Riser
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scarborough
Sharpe                 Simrill                Sinclair
Smith, D.C.            Smith, J.R.            Smith, W.D.
Stille                 Stuart                 Talley
Taylor                 Thompson               Townsend
Trotter                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   White                  Wilkins
Witherspoon            Young, A.              Young, J.

Total--63

So, the House refused to table the motion to reconsider.

The question then recurred to the motion to reconsider, which was agreed to.

SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE IN CHAIR

Rep. WILKINS spoke against the Veto.
Rep. JENNINGS spoke in favor of the Veto.
Rep. WILKINS spoke against the Veto.
Rep. HARRELL spoke against the Veto.


Printed Page 4268 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

The question was put, shall the Item become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 78; Nays 34

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Allison                Altman
Barfield               Barrett                Bingham
Brown, J.              Campsen                Cato
Chellis                Cooper                 Cotty
Dantzler               Davenport              Delleney
Easterday              Edge                   Fleming
Frye                   Gilham                 Gourdine
Hamilton               Harrell                Harrison
Haskins                Hinson                 Howard
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Kennedy                Kirsh                  Koon
Law                    Leach                  Limehouse
Littlejohn             Loftis                 Lucas
Martin                 McCraw                 McGee
Meacham-Richardson     Merrill                Owens
Perry                  Phillips               Quinn
Rice                   Riser                  Rodgers
Sandifer               Scarborough            Sharpe
Simrill                Sinclair               Smith, D.C.
Smith, F.N.            Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.R.
Smith, W.D.            Snow                   Stille
Stuart                 Talley                 Taylor
Thompson               Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   White                  Wilkins
Witherspoon            Young, A.              Young, J.

Total--78

Those who voted in the negative are:

Bales                  Battle                 Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, R.
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Emory
Freeman                Govan                  Hayes
Hines, J.              Hines, M.              Hosey

Printed Page 4269 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Jennings               Lloyd                  Lourie
Mack                   McLeod                 Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Neilson                Ott                    Parks
Rivers                 Rutherford             Scott
Smith, J.E.            Weeks                  Whipper
Wilder

Total--34

So, the Veto of the Governor was overridden and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

VETO 5-- MOTION TO RECONSIDER TABLED

Veto #5. General & Temporary, page 434, Section 72.98, Item "Due to unanticipated costs associated with the legal defense of reapportionment legislation and other civil litigation and the resulting impact on the budgets of the House and the Senate, the Budget and Control Board is directed to transfer the amount of $1.3 million from board reserve accounts to A01 Senate reserve account and the amount of $1.3 million from board reserve accounts to A05 House revenue reserve account. The Comptroller General shall establish expenditure authorization for the amount transferred."

The motion of Rep. G. BROWN to reconsider the vote whereby Veto No. 5 was overridden was taken up.

Rep. EASTERDAY moved to table the motion to reconsider.

Rep. J. E. SMITH demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 75; Nays 35

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Allison                Altman
Barfield               Barrett                Bingham
Brown, G.              Brown, J.              Campsen
Cato                   Chellis                Cooper
Cotty                  Dantzler               Davenport
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Fleming                Frye                   Gilham

Printed Page 4270 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Hamilton               Harrell                Harrison
Haskins                Hinson                 Howard
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Koon                   Law                    Leach
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Loftis
Lucas                  Martin                 McCraw
McGee                  Meacham-Richardson     Merrill
Owens                  Perry                  Phillips
Quinn                  Rice                   Riser
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scarborough
Sharpe                 Simrill                Smith, D.C.
Smith, F.N.            Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.R.
Smith, W.D.            Stille                 Stuart
Talley                 Taylor                 Thompson
Townsend               Tripp                  Trotter
Vaughn                 Walker                 Webb
Weeks                  White                  Wilder
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Young, A.

Total--75

Those who voted in the negative are:

Bales                  Battle                 Bowers
Breeland               Brown, R.              Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter            Emory                  Freeman
Gourdine               Hayes                  Hines, J.
Hines, M.              Hosey                  Jennings
Kennedy                Kirsh                  Lloyd
Lourie                 Mack                   McLeod
Miller                 Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Ott
Parks                  Rhoad                  Rivers
Rutherford             Scott                  Smith, J.E.
Snow                   Whipper

Total--35

So, the motion to reconsider was tabled.


Printed Page 4271 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

VETO 8-- CONTINUED

Veto #8. Health and Human Services, page 328, Section 8.38, "Silver Card Plus Program."

Rep. QUINN moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

SPEAKER IN CHAIR

VETO 9-- SUSTAINED

Veto #9. Department of Education, page 303, Section 1.76, "EAA Funding."

Rep. HARRELL spoke against the Veto.

The question was put, shall the Item become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 65; Nays 47

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Altman                 Barfield
Barrett                Bingham                Brown, J.
Campsen                Cato                   Chellis
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Davenport              Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Fleming                Frye
Gilham                 Hamilton               Harrell
Harrison               Haskins                Hinson
Howard                 Huggins                Keegan
Kelley                 Koon                   Law
Leach                  Limehouse              Littlejohn
Loftis                 Lucas                  Martin
Meacham-Richardson     Merrill                Owens
Perry                  Quinn                  Rice
Riser                  Rodgers                Sandifer
Scarborough            Sinclair               Smith, D.C.
Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.R.            Stille
Stuart                 Talley                 Taylor
Thompson               Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Walker                 Webb

Printed Page 4272 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

White                  Wilkins                Witherspoon
Young, A.              Young, J.

Total--65

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allen                  Bales                  Battle
Bowers                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, R.              Clyburn                Coates
Cobb-Hunter            Coleman                Emory
Freeman                Gourdine               Govan
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hines, M.
Hosey                  Jennings               Kennedy
Kirsh                  Lloyd                  Lourie
Mack                   McCraw                 McGee
McLeod                 Miller                 Moody-Lawrence
Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.             Neilson
Ott                    Parks                  Phillips
Rhoad                  Rivers                 Rutherford
Scott                  Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, F.N.            Smith, J.E.            Snow
Weeks                  Wilder

Total--47

So, the Veto of the Governor was sustained and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

VETO 10-- CONTINUED

Veto #10. Commission on Higher Education, page 319, Section 5A.28, "Election Day Closings."

Rep. HARRELL spoke against the Veto.
Rep. JENNINGS spoke in favor of the Veto.

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 11-- DEBATE ADJOURNED

Veto #11. General & Temporary, page 432, Section 72.97, Item "Adjutant General's Office: $771,748 must be transferred to the General Fund from Subfund 4418 National Guard Pensions."


Printed Page 4273 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. HARRELL moved to adjourn debate on the veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 12-- DEBATE ADJOURNED

Veto #12. General & Temporary, page 432, Section 72.97, Item "Adjutant General's Office: $1,779 must be transferred to the General Fund from Subfund 4332 Ng Pension Operating Expenses."

Rep. HARRELL moved to adjourn debate on the veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 13-- DEBATE ADJOURNED

Veto #13. General & Temporary, page 432, Section 72.97, Item "Budget and Control Board: $225,583 must be transferred to the General Fund from Subfund 4261 Retirement System-Admin."

Rep. HARRELL moved to adjourn debate on the veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 14-- DEBATE ADJOURNED

Veto #14. Department of Corrections, page 367, Section 37.27, "Release of Inmates."

Rep. HARRELL moved to adjourn debate on the veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 15-- CONTINUED

Veto #15. Department of Health and Human Services, page 78, Section 8, Item "Executive Director General Funds $116,199."

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 16-- CONTINUED

Veto #16. Department of Social Services, page 107, Section 13, Item "Commissioner/s General Funds $129,484."

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 17-- CONTINUED

Veto #17. Department of Commerce, page 157, Section 27, Item "Other Operating Expenses General Funds $129,685."


Printed Page 4274 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 18-- CONTINUED

Veto #18. Department of Revenue, page 281, Section 64, Item "Other Operating Expenses General Funds $182,500."

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 19-- CONTINUED

Veto #19. Department of Corrections, page 179, Section 37, Item "Other Operating Expenses General Funds $152,032."

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 11-- CONTINUED

Veto #11. General & Temporary, page 432, Section 72.97, Item "Adjutant General's Office: $771,748 must be transferred to the General Fund from Subfund 4418 National Guard Pensions."

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 12-- CONTINUED

Veto #12. General & Temporary, page 432, Section 72.97, Item "Adjutant General's Office: $1,779 must be transferred to the General Fund from Subfund 4332 Ng Pension Operating Expenses."

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

VETO 13-- SUSTAINED

Veto #13. General & Temporary, page 432, Section 72.97, Item "Budget and Control Board: $225,583 must be transferred to the General Fund from Subfund 4261 Retirement System-Admin."

Rep. HARRELL spoke against the Veto.
Rep. JENNINGS spoke in favor of the Veto.
Rep. HARRELL spoke against the Veto.

The question was put, shall the Item become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 69; Nays 44


Printed Page 4275 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Allison                Altman                 Barfield
Barrett                Bingham                Brown, J.
Campsen                Cato                   Chellis
Coates                 Cooper                 Cotty
Dantzler               Davenport              Delleney
Easterday              Edge                   Fleming
Frye                   Gilham                 Hamilton
Harrell                Harrison               Haskins
Hinson                 Howard                 Huggins
Keegan                 Kelley                 Koon
Law                    Leach                  Limehouse
Littlejohn             Loftis                 Lucas
McGee                  Meacham-Richardson     Merrill
Owens                  Perry                  Quinn
Rice                   Riser                  Rodgers
Sandifer               Scarborough            Simrill
Sinclair               Smith, D.C.            Smith, G.M.
Smith, J.R.            Smith, W.D.            Stille
Stuart                 Talley                 Taylor
Thompson               Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   White                  Wilkins
Witherspoon            Young, A.              Young, J.

Total--69

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allen                  Bales                  Battle
Bowers                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, R.              Carnell                Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter            Coleman                Emory
Freeman                Gourdine               Govan
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hines, M.
Hosey                  Jennings               Kirsh
Lloyd                  Lourie                 Mack
McCraw                 McLeod                 Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Ott                    Parks                  Phillips
Rhoad                  Rivers                 Rutherford
Scott                  Sheheen                Smith, F.N.

Printed Page 4276 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Smith, J.E.            Snow                   Weeks
Whipper                Wilder

Total--44

So, the Veto of the Governor was sustained and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

VETO 14-- CONTINUED

Veto #14. Department of Corrections, page 367, Section 37.27, "Release of Inmates."

Rep. HARRELL moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

H. 4426--CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED

CONFERENCE REPORT
H. 4426
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., May 30, 2002

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 4426 (Word version) -- Reps. Merrill and Law: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2010, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SUNDAY MINIBOTTLE SALE PERMITS AND THE REFERENDUM APPROVAL REQUIRED IN A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY BEFORE SUNDAY MINIBOTTLE SALE PERMITS MAY BE ISSUED IN THE COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A REFERENDUM MAY BE ORDERED IN A MUNICIPALITY IN PART OF WHICH SUNDAY MINIBOTTLE SALE PERMITS MAY BE ISSUED PURSUANT TO A COUNTY REFERENDUM BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE MUNICIPALITY OR BY A MAJORITY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION WHO REPRESENT THE MUNICIPALITY AND TO PROVIDE THAT A MAJORITY "NO" VOTE IN THE MUNICIPAL REFERENDUM DOES NOT AFFECT THE ISSUING OF SUNDAY MINIBOTTLE SALE PERMITS IN THAT PORTION OF THE MUNICIPALITY WHERE THESE PERMITS WERE LAWFUL.

Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:


Printed Page 4277 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:
/   SECTION   1.   Section 61-6-2010 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 391 of 2000, is further amended by adding a subsection at the end to read:

"(D)(1)   The municipal governing body may order a referendum on the question of the issuance of temporary permits to allow the possession, sale, and consumption of alcoholic liquors in sealed containers of two ounces or less in the following circumstances:

(a)   parts of the municipality are located in more than one county;

(b)   as a result of a favorable vote in a county referendum held pursuant to this section, permits may be issued in only the parts of the municipality located in that county; and

(c)   the proposed referendum would authorize issuance of permits in the remaining parts of the municipality.

(2)   The method of ordering a referendum provided in this subsection is in addition to the petition method provided in subsection (C). An unfavorable vote in a municipal referendum does not affect the authority to issue these permits in the part of the municipality located in a county where these permits may be issued.

(3)   Upon receipt of a copy of the ordinance filed with the municipal election commission at least sixty days before the date of the general election, the commission must conduct the referendum at the time of the general election and publish and certify its results in the same manner as provided in subsection (C). Subsection (C)(2) does not apply to this referendum."

SECTION   2.   Section 61-6-1540(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   Except as provided in subsection (B), no other goods, wares, or merchandise may be kept or stored in or sold in or from a retail alcoholic liquor store or place of business, and no place of amusement may be maintained in or in connection with the store. However, retail dealers may sell:

(1)   drinking glassware packaged together with alcoholic liquors if the glassware and alcoholic liquors are packaged together by the wholesaler or producer in packaging provided by the producer.;

(2)   Retail dealers also may sell nonalcoholic items, other than beer or wine, packaged together with alcoholic liquors if the nonalcoholic items and alcoholic liquors are in sealed packages and are


Printed Page 4278 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

packaged together by the alcoholic liquor producer at its place of business.; and

(3)   lottery tickets under the provisions of Chapter 150 of Title 59."
SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.   /

Amend title to conform.

/s/John Wesley Matthews           /s/Jeff Young
/s/William Clarence Mescher       J. Gary Simrill
/s/Lawrence Kelly Grooms          /s/James Merrill
Part of the Senate.              On Part of the House.

Rep. J. YOUNG explained the Conference Report.

The Conference Report was adopted by a division vote of 58 to 17 and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4426--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act and that it be enrolled for ratification.

S. 322--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS GRANTED

Rep. EASTERDAY moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request:

S. 322 (Word version) -- Senators Mescher, Grooms and Branton: A BILL TO AMEND SUBARTICLE 4, ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM, SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THIS PROGRAM COURT-APPOINTED GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN CUSTODY DISPUTES IN FAMILY COURT, TO PROVIDE THAT A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN A CUSTODY DISPUTE MAY CHARGE UP TO FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR SERVICES RENDERED IN A CASE, TO PROVIDE THAT CIVIL AND CRIMINAL IMMUNITY DOES NOT APPLY TO A GUARDIAN AD LITEM WHO CHARGES FOR SERVICES RENDERED, AND TO REQUIRE A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN A CUSTODY DISPUTE TO BE AT LEAST THIRTY


Printed Page 4279 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

YEARS OF AGE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE FAMILY COURT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IN ORDERING A MENTAL OR PSYCHIATRIC EXAMINATION IN CUSTODY DISPUTES, THE COURT MUST MAKE FINDINGS OF FACT THAT THERE IS PROBABLE CAUSE TO ORDER THE EXAMINATION AND THAT IT IS NECESSARY TO MAKE A DETERMINATION IN THE CASE.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 90; Nays 18

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Bales                  Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bingham
Bowers                 Brown, G.              Brown, J.
Campsen                Carnell                Cato
Chellis                Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Coleman                Cooper                 Cotty
Dantzler               Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Emory                  Freeman
Gilham                 Govan                  Hamilton
Harrell                Harrison               Haskins
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hinson
Howard                 Huggins                Jennings
Keegan                 Kelley                 Kirsh
Koon                   Law                    Leach
Limehouse              Lourie                 Lucas
Martin                 McCraw                 McGee
McLeod                 Meacham-Richardson     Merrill
Miller                 Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Neilson                Ott                    Owens
Perry                  Phillips               Quinn
Rhoad                  Rice                   Riser
Rivers                 Rodgers                Sandifer
Sharpe                 Simrill                Sinclair
Smith, D.C.            Smith, F.N.            Smith, J.E.
Smith, J.R.            Smith, W.D.            Snow
Stille                 Stuart                 Talley
Taylor                 Tripp                  Trotter
Vaughn                 Webb                   Whipper

Printed Page 4280 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

White                  Wilder                 Wilkins
Witherspoon            Young, A.              Young, J.

Total--90

Those who voted in the negative are:

Altman                 Breeland               Brown, R.
Coates                 Fleming                Frye
Gourdine               Hines, M.              Hosey
Kennedy                Lloyd                  Mack
Moody-Lawrence         Rutherford             Scarborough
Smith, G.M.            Thompson               Weeks

Total--18

So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.

The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference. The SPEAKER appointed Reps. EASTERDAY, COLEMAN and SINCLAIR to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

S. 322--FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED

FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
S. 322
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., May 30, 2002

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
S. 322 (Word version) -- Senators Mescher, Grooms and Branton: A BILL TO AMEND SUBARTICLE 4, ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM, SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THIS PROGRAM COURT-APPOINTED GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN CUSTODY DISPUTES IN FAMILY COURT, TO PROVIDE THAT A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN A CUSTODY DISPUTE MAY CHARGE UP TO FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR SERVICES RENDERED IN A CASE, TO PROVIDE THAT CIVIL AND CRIMINAL IMMUNITY DOES NOT APPLY TO A GUARDIAN AD LITEM WHO CHARGES


Printed Page 4281 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

FOR SERVICES RENDERED, AND TO REQUIRE A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN A CUSTODY DISPUTE TO BE AT LEAST THIRTY YEARS OF AGE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE FAMILY COURT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IN ORDERING A MENTAL OR PSYCHIATRIC EXAMINATION IN CUSTODY DISPUTES, THE COURT MUST MAKE FINDINGS OF FACT THAT THERE IS PROBABLE CAUSE TO ORDER THE EXAMINATION AND THAT IT IS NECESSARY TO MAKE A DETERMINATION IN THE CASE.

Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:
/   SECTION   1.   This act shall be cited as the "South Carolina Private Guardian Ad Litem Reform Act".

SECTION   2.   Subarticle 2, Article 11, Chapter 7, Title 20 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 20-7-1545.   (A)   In a private action before the family court in which custody or visitation of a minor child is an issue, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem only when it determines that:

(1)   without a guardian ad litem, the court will likely not be fully informed about the facts of the case and there is a substantial dispute which necessitates a guardian ad litem; or

(2)   both parties consent to the appointment of a guardian ad litem who is approved by the court;

(B)   The court has absolute discretion in determining who will be appointed as a guardian ad litem in each case. A guardian ad litem must be appointed to a case by a court order.

Section 20-7-1547.   (A)   A guardian ad litem may be either an attorney or a layperson. A person must not be appointed as a guardian ad litem pursuant to Section 20-7-1545 unless he possesses the following qualifications:

(1)   a guardian ad litem must be twenty-five years of age or older;

(2)   a guardian ad litem must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent;

(3)   an attorney guardian ad litem must annually complete a minimum of six hours of family law continuing legal education credit


Printed Page 4282 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

in the areas of custody and visitation; however, this requirement may be waived by the court;

(4)   for initial qualification, a lay guardian ad litem must have completed a minimum of nine hours of continuing education in the areas of custody and visitation and three hours of continuing education related to substantive law and procedure in family court. The courses must be approved by the Supreme Court Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization;

(5)   a lay guardian ad litem must observe three contested custody merits hearings prior to serving as a guardian ad litem. The lay guardian must maintain a certificate showing that observation of these hearings has been completed. This certificate, which shall be on a form approved by Court Administration, shall state the names of the cases, the dates and the judges involved and shall be attested to by the respective judge; and

(6)   lay guardians ad litem must complete annually six hours of continuing education courses in the areas of custody and visitation.

(B)   A person shall not be appointed as a guardian ad litem pursuant to 20-7-1545 who has been convicted of any crime listed in Chapter 3 of Title 16, Offenses Against the Person; in Chapter 15 of Title 16, Offenses Against Morality and Decency; in Chapter 25 of Title 16, Criminal Domestic Violence; in Article 3 of Chapter 53 of Title 44, Narcotics and Controlled Substances; or convicted of the crime of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, provided for in Section 16-17-490.

(C)   No person may be appointed as a guardian ad litem pursuant to Section 20-7-1545 if he is or has ever been on the Department of Social Services Central Registry of Abuse and Neglect.

(D)   Upon appointment to a case, a guardian ad litem must provide an affidavit to the court and to the parties attesting to compliance with the statutory qualifications. The affidavit must include, but is not limited to, the following:

(1)   a statement affirming that the guardian ad litem has completed the training requirements provided for in subsection (A);

(2)   a statement affirming that the guardian ad litem has complied with the requirements of this section, including a statement that the person has not been convicted of a crime enumerated in subsection (B); and

(3)   a statement affirming that the guardian ad litem is not nor has ever been on the Department of Social Services Central Registry of Child Abuse and Neglect pursuant to Section 20-7-650.


Printed Page 4283 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(E)   The court may appoint an attorney for a lay guardian ad litem. A party or the guardian ad litem may petition the court by motion for the appointment of an attorney for the guardian ad litem. This appointment may be by consent order. The order appointing the attorney must set forth the reasons for the appointment and must establish a method for compensating the attorney.

Section 20-7-1549.   (A)   The responsibilities and duties of a guardian ad litem include, but are not limited to:

(1)   representing the best interest of the child;

(2)   conducting an independent, balanced, and impartial investigation to determine the facts relevant to the situation of the child and the family. An investigation must include, but is not limited to:

(i)     obtaining and reviewing relevant documents, except that a guardian ad litem must not be compensated for reviewing documents related solely to financial matters not relevant to the suitability of the parents as to custody, visitation, or child support. The guardian ad litem shall have access to the child's school records and medical records. The guardian ad litem may petition the family court for the medical records of the parties;

(ii)   meeting with and observing the child on at least one occasion;

(iii)   visiting the home settings if deemed appropriate;

(iv)   interviewing parents, caregivers, school officials, law enforcement, and others with knowledge relevant to the case;

(v)   obtaining the criminal history of each party when determined necessary; and

(vi)   considering the wishes of the child, if appropriate;

(3)   advocating for the child's best interest by making specific and clear suggestions, when necessary, for evaluation, services, and treatment for the child and the child's family. Evaluations or other services suggested by the guardian ad litem must not be ordered by the court, except upon proper approval by the court or by consent of the parties;

(4)   attending all court hearings related to custody and visitation issues, except when attendance is excused by the court or the absence is stipulated by both parties. A guardian must not be compensated for attending a hearing related solely to a financial matter if the matter is not relevant to the suitability of the parents as to custody, visitation, or child support. The guardian must provide accurate, current information directly to the court, and that information must be relevant to matters pending before the court;


Printed Page 4284 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(5)   maintaining a complete file, including notes. A guardian's notes are his work product, and are not subject to subpoena; and

(6)   presenting to the court and all parties clear and comprehensive written reports including, but not limited to, a final written report regarding the child's best interest. The final written report may contain conclusions based upon the facts contained in the report. The final written report must be submitted to the court and all parties no later than twenty days prior to the merits hearing, unless that time period is modified by the court, but in no event later than ten days prior to the merits hearing. The ten-day requirement for the submission of the final written report may only be waived by mutual consent of both parties. The final written report must not include a recommendation concerning which party should be awarded custody; nor may the guardian ad litem make a recommendation as to the issue of custody at the merits hearing unless requested by the court for reasons specifically set forth on the record. The guardian ad litem is subject to cross-examination on the facts and conclusions contained in the final written report. The final written report must include the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of those interviewed during the investigation.

(B)   A guardian ad litem may submit briefs, memoranda, affidavits, or other documents on behalf of the child. A guardian ad litem may also submit affidavits at the temporary hearing. Any report or recommendation of a guardian ad litem must be submitted in a manner consistent with the South Carolina Rules of Evidence and other state law.

Section 20-7-1551.   A guardian ad litem must not mediate, attempt to mediate, or act as a mediator in a case to which he has been appointed. However, nothing in this section shall prohibit a guardian ad litem from participating in a mediation or a settlement conference with the consent of the parties.

Section 20-7-1553.   (A)   At the time of appointment of a guardian ad litem, the family court judge must set forth the method and rate of compensation for the guardian ad litem, including an initial authorization of a fee based on the facts of the case. If the guardian ad litem determines that it is necessary to exceed the fee initially authorized by the judge, the guardian must provide notice to both parties and obtain the judge's written authorization or the consent of both parties to charge more than the initially authorized fee.

(B)   A guardian appointed by the court is entitled to reasonable compensation, subject to the review and approval of the court. In


Printed Page 4285 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

determining the reasonableness of the fees and costs, the court must take into account:

(1)   the complexity of the issues before the court;

(2)   the contentiousness of the litigation;

(3)   the time expended by the guardian;

(4)   the expenses reasonably incurred by the guardian;

(5)   the financial ability of each party to pay fees and costs; and

(6)   any other factors the court considers necessary.

(C)   The guardian ad litem must submit an itemized billing statement of hours, expenses, costs, and fees to the parties and their attorneys pursuant to a schedule as directed by the court.

(D)   At any time during the action, a party may petition the court to review the reasonableness of the fees and costs submitted by the guardian ad litem or the attorney for the guardian ad litem.

Section 20-7-1555.     A guardian ad litem appointed by the family court in a custody or visitation action must, upon notice of the appointment, provide written disclosure to each party:

(1)   of the nature, duration, and extent of any relationship the guardian ad litem or any member of the guardian's immediate family residing in the guardian's household has with any party;

(2)   of any interest adverse to any party or attorney which might cause the impartiality of the guardian ad litem to be challenged; and

(3)   any membership or participation in any organization related to child abuse, domestic violence, or drug and alcohol abuse.

Section 20-7-1557.     A   guardian ad litem may be removed from a case at the discretion of the court."

SECTION   3.   Section 20-7-420(37) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(37)   To appoint guardians ad litem and determine their compensation, fees, and costs and to assess as compensation, fees, and costs against the person represented by the guardian ad litem or against any other person or party involved in the action in actions pertaining to custody or visitation pursuant to Section 20-7-1545."

SECTION   4.   (A)   Section 20-7-1555 of the 1976 Code is redesignated as Section 20-7-1525, and Section 20-7-1557 is redesignated Section 20-7-1535, both of which are to be placed within Subarticle 1, Article 11, Chapter 7, Title 20 of the 1976 Code.

(B)   Subarticle 1, Article 11, Chapter 7, Title 20 of the 1976 Code is renamed "Special Custody and Visitation Provisions".

(C)   Subarticle 2, Article 11, Chapter 7, Title 20 of the 1976 Code is renamed "Private Guardians ad Litem".


Printed Page 4286 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

SECTION   5.   This act takes effect on January 15, 2003 and applies to a guardian ad litem appointed in a custody case on or after the effective date./

Amend title to conform.

/s/Larry A. Martin                /s/Michael E. Easterday
Robert L. Waldrep, Jr.            /s/Phillip K. "Phil" Sinclair
/s/C. Bradley Hutto               Creighton B. Coleman
Part of the Senate.               On Part of the House.

S. 322--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act and that it be enrolled for ratification.

H. 4337--COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE APPOINTED

The following was received from the Senate:

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it nonconcurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 4337:

H. 4337 (Word version) -- Reps. Campsen, Chellis, Barfield, Harrell and Easterday: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3910, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DUE DATES FOR QUARTERLY PAYMENTS OF ESTIMATED STATE INCOME TAX BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ESTIMATED INCOME TAX PAYMENT REFORM ACT", SO AS TO CHANGE THE DUE DATE FOR THE FIRST CORPORATE INCOME TAX ESTIMATED PAYMENT FROM MARCH 15 TO APRIL 15.

Very respectfully,
President

On motion of Rep. PERRY, the House insisted upon its amendments.


Printed Page 4287 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. PERRY, CAMPSEN and KIRSH to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

R. 382, H. 4260--GOVERNOR'S VETO CONTINUED

The Veto on the following Act was taken up:

(R382) H. 4260 (Word version) -- Reps. Sharpe and Ott: AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 5, TITLE 47, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RABIES CONTROL, SO AS TO REVISE DEFINITIONS AND ADD NEW DEFINITIONS, TO PROHIBIT THE SALE OF OFFSPRING BORN TO A CARNIVORE OR OTHER ANIMAL CROSSBRED WITH A WILD CARNIVORE, TO RESTRICT PUBLIC EXHIBITIONS OF WILD CARNIVORES AND OTHER ANIMALS FOR WHICH A RABIES VACCINE DOES NOT EXIST, TO REVISE RABIES REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, TO CHANGE THE TIME WITHIN WHICH A PHYSICIAN IS REQUIRED TO REPORT AN ANIMAL BITE FROM TWELVE HOURS TO THE NEXT WORKING DAY, TO REVISE QUARANTINE REQUIREMENTS, AND TO REVISE THE PUNISHMENT FOR CHAPTER VIOLATIONS TO THE MAXIMUM PENALTIES.

Rep. WITHERSPOON moved to continue the Veto, which was agreed to.

R. 388, H. 4879--VETO 1 -- DEBATE ADJOURNED,
VETO 2 -- OVERRIDDEN

The Veto on the following Act was taken up:

(R388) H. 4879 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO ENACT THE BUDGET PROVISO CODIFICATION ACT.

VETO 1-- DEBATE ADJOURNED

Veto #1. Section 7, page 64, "Continuum of Care transferred."

Rep. HARRELL moved to adjourn debate on the veto, which was agreed to.

SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE IN CHAIR


Printed Page 4288 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

VETO 2-- OVERRIDDEN

Veto #2. Section N (54.41), page 30, "Section 2-1-220 amendment."

Rep. WILKINS spoke against the Veto.
Rep. HARRELL spoke against the Veto.

The question was put, shall the Item become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 79; Nays 35

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Allison                Altman
Barfield               Barrett                Bingham
Brown, J.              Campsen                Cato
Chellis                Coates                 Coleman
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Fleming                Frye                   Gilham
Hamilton               Harrell                Harrison
Haskins                Hinson                 Howard
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Kirsh                  Koon                   Law
Leach                  Limehouse              Littlejohn
Loftis                 Lucas                  Martin
McCraw                 McGee                  Meacham-Richardson
Merrill                Owens                  Perry
Phillips               Quinn                  Rice
Riser                  Rodgers                Sandifer
Scarborough            Sharpe                 Sheheen
Simrill                Sinclair               Smith, D.C.
Smith, F.N.            Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.R.
Smith, W.D.            Snow                   Stille
Stuart                 Talley                 Taylor
Thompson               Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   White                  Wilder
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Young, A.
Young, J.

Total--79


Printed Page 4289 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Those who voted in the negative are:
Bales                  Battle                 Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, R.
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Emory
Freeman                Gourdine               Govan
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hines, M.
Hosey                  Jennings               Kennedy
Lloyd                  Lourie                 Mack
McLeod                 Miller                 Moody-Lawrence
Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.             Neilson
Ott                    Parks                  Rivers
Rutherford             Scott                  Smith, J.E.
Weeks                  Whipper

Total--35

So, the Veto of the Governor was overridden and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

Rep. TROTTER moved that the House recede until 2:00 p.m., which was agreed to.

THE HOUSE RESUMES

At 2:00 p.m. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

The SPEAKER granted Rep. F. N. SMITH a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

The SPEAKER granted Rep. SINCLAIR a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.

ACTING SPEAKER DELLENEY IN CHAIR

POINT OF QUORUM

The question of a quorum was raised.
A quorum was later present.

SPEAKER IN CHAIR


Printed Page 4290 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

H. 3756--DEBATE ADJOURNED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3756 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins and Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO FAMILY COURT JURISDICTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FAMILY COURT HAS EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION TO HEAR AND DETERMINE MATTERS RELATING TO THE VALIDITY OF PREMARITAL AGREEMENTS AND THE EFFECT OF THESE AGREEMENTS ON ISSUES OTHERWISE WITHIN FAMILY COURT JURISDICTION.

Rep. HARRISON moved to adjourn debate on the Senate Amendments, which was agreed to.

H. 3485--SENATE AMENDMENTS AMENDED AND RETURNED TO THE SENATE

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3485 (Word version) -- Reps. Phillips, Littlejohn, McCraw and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 22, CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE PLATES TO MEMBERS OF MUNICIPAL COUNCILS, COUNTY COUNCILS, AND COUNTY CORONERS BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY FOR PRIVATE PASSENGER MOTOR VEHICLES OWNED BY THEM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISSUE SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES TO MAYORS.

Rep. RICE proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\PT\AMEND\1043DW02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, SECTION 2, by striking lines 13, 14, and 15 and inserting:
/ councils, and to county coroners, and mayors of this State for private passenger motor vehicles owned by them. The department may also issue special motor vehicle license plates to former members of the General Assembly who are eligible to receive retirement benefits


Printed Page 4291 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

under the General Assembly Retirement System of this State for private passenger motor vehicles owned by them. The /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. RICE explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The Senate amendments, as amended, were then agreed to and the Bill was ordered returned to the Senate.

H. 3978--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3978 (Word version) -- Rep. Merrill: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-93-100, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM REGULATION FOR GENERATORS OF LESS THAN FIFTY POUNDS OF INFECTIOUS WASTE, SO AS TO REQUIRE SHARPS TO BE MANAGED PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF CHAPTER 93 AND REGULATIONS PROMULGATED UNDER THAT CHAPTER.

Rep. WITHERSPOON explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

H. 5291--DEBATE ADJOURNED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 5291 (Word version) -- Reps. Bingham, Huggins and Riser: A BILL TO DIRECT THE LEXINGTON COUNTY OFFICIAL CHARGED WITH THE RESPONSIBILITY OF COLLECTING DELINQUENT TAXES, IN CONNECTION WITH THE REQUIREMENT FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES ON A WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTOR BE CURRENT BEFORE THE TITLE TO THESE ITEMS MAY BE TRANSFERRED, THAT THIS PROHIBITION ON THE


Printed Page 4292 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

TRANSFER OF TITLE APPLIES ONLY FOR PROPERTY TAXES DUE FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEGINNING AFTER 1999, THAT USED WATERCRAFT AND USED OUTBOARD MOTORS OBTAINED FROM A LICENSED DEALER ON OR AFTER OCTOBER 3, 2000, ARE FREE OF THE LIEN FOR THE PAYMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEFORE 2000, AND THAT NO REFUNDS OF PROPERTY TAXES ON WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTORS ARE PAYABLE FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEFORE.

Rep. BINGHAM moved to adjourn debate on the Senate Amendments, which was agreed to.

H. 4835--SENATE AMENDMENTS AMENDED AND RETURNED TO THE SENATE

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 4835 (Word version) -- Reps. Carnell, Keegan, Harrell, A. Young and Quinn: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-47-55, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ANNUAL PERMANENT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM WHICH IS REQUIRED TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE JOINT BOND REVIEW COMMITTEE AND THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD, SO AS TO CHANGE THE NAME OF THE SUBMISSION TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PERMANENT IMPROVEMENT PLAN WHICH WOULD SERVE AS AN OUTLINE FOR AN AGENCY'S PERMANENT IMPROVEMENT ACTIVITIES FOR THE NEXT FIVE-YEAR PERIOD; AND TO AMEND ACT 1377 OF 1968, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF STATE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT BONDS, SO AS TO DELETE SECTION 5 WHICH REQUIRES STATE AGENCIES AND INSTITUTIONS TO SUBMIT AN OVERALL PLAN SEEKING APPROVAL OF REQUESTS FOR FUNDING OF PERMANENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS OR OF THE ESTABLISHMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECTS PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED UNDER ACT 1377 OF 1968 (STATE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT BOND ACT).

Rep. J. R. SMITH proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\AMEND\9231HTC02), which was adopted:


Printed Page 4293 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 3 in its entirety.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. J. R. SMITH explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The Senate amendments, as amended, were then agreed to and the Bill was ordered returned to the Senate.

S. 1007--RECOMMITTED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 1007 (Word version) -- Senators Bauer, Gregory, Ravenel, Ritchie, Branton, Hawkins, Fair, Hayes and Kuhn: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 23-1-240 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MONIES FOR THE PREMIUMS FOR TORT LIABILITY INSURANCE FOR STATE CONSTABLES OBTAINED THROUGH THE OFFICE OF INSURANCE SERVICES OF THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD AND FOR WORKERS' COMPENSATION INSURANCE MUST BE PROVIDED BY APPROPRIATIONS TO THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION; AND SECTION 42-1-135 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERM "EMPLOYEE" FOR PURPOSES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA WORKERS' COMPENSATION LAW INCLUDES ALL SOUTH CAROLINA STATE CONSTABLES WHILE PERFORMING DUTIES IN CONNECTION WITH THEIR APPOINTMENT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 42-7-65, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF "AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE" FOR CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF PERSONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA WORKERS' COMPENSATION LAW, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE FOR ALL VOLUNTEER STATE CONSTABLES SERVING WITHOUT COMPENSATION IS THIRTY-SEVEN AND ONE-HALF PERCENT OF THE AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE IN THE STATE FOR THE PRECEDING FISCAL YEAR.


Printed Page 4294 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. CATO moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry, which was agreed to.

S. 1246--NONCONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS

The Senate amendments to the following Joint Resolution were taken up for consideration:

S. 1246 (Word version) -- Senator Moore: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A COMMITTEE TO STUDY REVISIONS IN THE MANNER IN WHICH THE IMPROVEMENT RATINGS OF SCHOOLS UNDER THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT IS DETERMINED.

The House refused to agree to the Senate amendments and a message was ordered sent accordingly.

H. 4481--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 4481 (Word version) -- Reps. Keegan, Neilson and Riser: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-395 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT, WHEN ANY PERSON IS ACTIVATED FOR FULL-TIME MILITARY SERVICE DURING A TIME OF NATIONAL CRISIS AND THEREFORE IS REQUIRED TO CEASE ATTENDING A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING WITHOUT COMPLETING AND RECEIVING A GRADE IN ONE OR MORE COURSES, THE TUITION AND FEES PAID BY THAT STUDENT TO THE INSTITUTION FOR THE SEMESTER OR QUARTER IS REQUIRED TO BE REFUNDED TO THE STUDENT, TO PROVIDE FOR PROPORTIONATE REFUNDS OF ROOM AND BOARD AND OTHER FEES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER DESIGNATED ASSISTANCE, INCLUDING FREE TUITION WITHIN A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS FOLLOWING DEACTIVATION TO COMPLETE THESE COURSES.

Rep. COOPER explained the Senate Amendments.


Printed Page 4295 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

H. 4402--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 4402 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughn, Merrill, Altman, Rodgers, Walker and Leach: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 43-3-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO COUNTY BOARDS OF SOCIAL SERVICES, WHICH SERVE IN AN ADVISORY CAPACITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, IN ITS SOLE DISCRETION, HAS THE AUTHORITY TO TERMINATE A COUNTY BOARD OF SOCIAL SERVICES.

Rep. VAUGHN explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

H. 3789--SENATE AMENDMENTS AMENDED AND RETURNED TO THE SENATE

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3789 (Word version) -- Reps. Fleming, Harrison, Quinn, J. Young, Altman, Wilkins, Riser, Sandifer, Scott, Weeks and A. Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-5-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL MEMBERS OF COUNTY BOARDS OF REGISTRATION, COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSIONS, AND COMBINED COUNTY BOARDS OF REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS COMMISSIONS MUST BE APPOINTED FOR STAGGERED TERMS OF FOUR YEARS AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE INITIAL APPOINTMENT OF THESE MEMBERS TO ENSURE THE STAGGERING OF TERMS; TO AMEND CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN


Printed Page 4296 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

ELECTION TO BE CONDUCTED IN EVERY EVEN AND ODD-NUMBERED YEAR TO FILL SEATS OF ALL ELECTED BODIES WHOSE ELECTIONS TO FILL THOSE SEATS ARE PROVIDED BY LAW AT A TIME OTHER THAN AT THE TIME OF THE GENERAL ELECTION AND REQUIRE GOVERNING BODIES AND COUNTIES CONDUCTING A REFERENDUM TO AUTHORIZE GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT TO CONDUCT THE REFERENDUM AT THE TIME OF THE GENERAL ELECTION OR ON THE FIRST TUESDAY FOLLOWING THE FIRST MONDAY IN NOVEMBER IN AN ODD-NUMBERED YEAR; BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-1115 SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR HAND COUNTS IF A VOTING MACHINE MALFUNCTIONS AND TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR LOCAL COMMISSIONS TO FOLLOW WHEN HAND COUNTS ARE CONDUCTED; BY ADDING SECTION 7-17-75 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT WHEN A LOSING CANDIDATE PROTESTS AN ELECTION ON ANY GROUNDS, OTHER THAN ON THE DISPARITY OF THE NUMBER OF BALLOTS CAST, THAT CANDIDATE MUST PAY ALL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROTEST INCLUDING COSTS INCURRED BY THE STATE OR COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION TO THE WINNING CANDIDATE IF THE BOARD HEARING THE PROTEST DETERMINES THAT THE PROTEST IS FRIVOLOUS AND WITHOUT MERIT; BY ADDING SECTION 7-15-335 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEFORE EACH ELECTION, THE COUNTY BOARD OF REGISTRATION OR ITS DESIGNEE SHALL OFFER QUALIFIED RESIDENTS OF NURSING HOMES AND ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES THE OPPORTUNITY TO APPLY FOR ABSENTEE BALLOTS; BY ADDING SECTION 7-15-470 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A COUNTY BOARD OF REGISTRATION TO USE OTHER MEANS OF VOTING ABSENTEE INSTEAD OF BY PAPER BALLOT IF CERTIFIED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AND TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES TO EFFECTUATE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-10, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL OF MEMBERS OF COUNTY BOARDS OF REGISTRATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO NOTIFY THE RESPECTIVE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS, OTHER APPOINTING AUTHORITIES, AND

Printed Page 4297 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

THE GOVERNOR OF THE PROGRESS EACH COUNTY REGISTRATION BOARD MEMBER HAS MADE TOWARD COMPLETION OF THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM REQUIRED BY THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-35, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A COMBINED ELECTION AND REGISTRATION COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO NOTIFY THE RESPECTIVE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS, OTHER APPOINTING AUTHORITIES, AND THE GOVERNOR OF THE PROGRESS EACH COMBINED COUNTY REGISTRATION BOARD AND ELECTION COMMISSION MEMBER HAS MADE TOWARD COMPLETION OF THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM REQUIRED BY THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF ELECTION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO NOTIFY THE RESPECTIVE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS, OTHER APPOINTING AUTHORITIES, AND THE GOVERNOR OF THE PROGRESS EACH COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION MEMBER HAS MADE TOWARD COMPLETION OF THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM REQUIRED BY THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-190, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CONDUCTING A SPECIAL ELECTION TO FILL A VACANCY IN OFFICE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A SPECIAL ELECTION IS SCHEDULED TO BE HELD NO MORE THAN FIFTEEN DAYS AFTER A GENERAL ELECTION, THE SPECIAL ELECTION MUST BE HELD ON THE SAME DAY AS THE GENERAL ELECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-860, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT, QUALIFICATIONS, IDENTIFICATION, AND CONDUCT OF POLL WATCHERS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE WATCHER TO BE A QUALIFIED VOTER OF THE STATE RATHER THAN THE COUNTY WHERE HE IS TO WATCH; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1120, RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF IMPROPERLY MARKED BALLOTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A HAND COUNT IS CONDUCTED PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 7-13-1115, THE INTENT OF THE VOTER MUST BE CLEAR FROM THE FACE OF THE BALLOT PURSUANT TO POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ESTABLISHED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1340, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF VOTE

Printed Page 4298 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

RECORDERS, SO AS TO ADD REFERENCES TO OPTICAL SCAN VOTING DEVICES AND DELETE PROVISIONS REQUIRING SEPARATE VOTES FOR PRESIDENT; TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-330, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TIME OF APPLICATION FOR AN ABSENTEE BALLOT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY FORM FOR REQUESTING AN APPLICATION FOR AN ABSENTEE BALLOT MUST BE APPROVED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION PRIOR TO USE; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO REPRESENTS HIMSELF AS AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE FOR A QUALIFIED ELECTOR AND WHO SIGNS AN OATH IN VIOLATION OF SECTION 7-25-190 IS SUBJECT TO THE PENALTIES FOR THAT OFFENSE.

Reps. HARRISON and FLEMING proposed the following Amendment No. 1A (Doc Name COUNCIL\GJK\AMEND\ 21449DW02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:

/SECTION   1.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-5-15.   (A)   All members of boards of registration, county election commissions, and combined county boards of registration and county election commissions must be appointed for terms of two years. All terms begin on the date of appointment and end on March thirty-one of the year the term ends.

(B)   A member of a county board of registration, county election commission, or a combined county board of registration and county election commission may be removed for cause by the Governor upon recommendation of the State Election Commission.

(C)   Nothing in this section may be construed to prevent a legislative delegation from recommending to the Governor the removal of a board or commission member pursuant to Section 7-13-70."

SECTION   2.   Article 1, Chapter 5, Title 7 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-5-25.   (A)   Failure by a member of a county registration board, a combined county election and registration commission, or a county election commission to complete or make satisfactory progress toward completion of the certification and training requirements of Section 7-5-10, 7-5-35, or 7-13-70, as applicable, and as determined by the State Election Commission, constitutes neglect of duty for which the member must be removed from office by the Governor.


Printed Page 4299 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(B)   No later than February fifteenth of every even-numbered year, the State Election Commission shall report to the Governor and the respective legislative delegation or other recommending authority the progress of the officials named in subsection (A) of this section toward completion of the training and certification requirements applicable to these officials."

SECTION   3.   Chapter 13, Title 7 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

  "Article 2

Uniform Election Procedure Act

Section 7-13-210.   (A)   For purposes of this article, 'governing body' means the governing body of a municipality, school board, school district, special purpose district, or public service district, which include, but are not limited to, water, sewer, fire, recreation, soil conservation, and other similar district offices.

(B)   Notwithstanding any other provision of law or special act providing for the election of the members of a governing body, beginning at the time of the general election of 2002 and every year thereafter as appropriate, members of a governing body must be elected in elections to be conducted at the same time as the general election or on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November in an odd-numbered year as follows:

(1)   If the term for which a current member of a governing body expires in an even-numbered year, that member's term is extended until his successor is elected and qualifies in the manner provided in this article at the general election.

(2)   If the term for which a current member of a governing body expires in an odd-numbered year, that member's term is extended until his successor is elected and qualifies in the manner provided in this article on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November.

Section 7-13-220.   If a member of a governing body is currently elected at the time of the general election or on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November, the provisions of this article control the election of that member.

Section 7-13-230.   A member of a governing body currently elected in a nonpartisan election as provided by law shall continue to be elected in that manner except that the date of the nonpartisan election must be at the same time in the appropriate even-numbered or odd-number year as provided in Section 7-3-210(B).


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Section 7-13-240.   The terms for a member elected to a governing body are as now provided by law for that governing body.

Section 7-13-250.   Candidates for these offices, which are filled in nonpartisan elections on the effective date of this article, must be nominated by the method provided by law for the office affected with the appropriate authority conducting the election.

Section 7-13-260.   The elections provided for in this article including, but not limited to, all dates and times for the conduct of elections currently provided for in the general election in Title 7 apply to and also must be used for the election conducted on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November in an odd-numbered year and must be conducted pursuant to the provisions of Title 7, mutatis mutandis, except as otherwise provided for in this section. The cost of the election must be borne by the governing body elected at the times specified in this article on a pro rata basis determined by the entity charged by law with conducting the election.

Section 7-13-270.   Members of a governing body shall continue to be elected from the district at large, from specified election districts, or in such other manner as is now provided by law for that governing body.

Section 7-13-280.   Vacancies in these offices must be filled as provided by law.

Section 7-13-290.   The results of these elections must be determined in the manner provided by law for that governing body.

Section 7-13-300.   A referendum on the question of raising the bonded indebtedness limit of a governing body, including a county and any other referendum, must be held either at the time of the general election or on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November of an odd-numbered year."

SECTION   4.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-13-1115.   (A)   Hand counts of election results may only be conducted if the machine used for the original count malfunctions and that malfunction is certified by the State Election Commission. The State Election Commission must also certify that the hand count is necessary. If another machine can be substituted for the malfunctioning machine within forty-eight hours of the discovery of the malfunction, the substituted machine must be used and the necessity of the hand count may not be certified. All hand counts must be conducted at the direction of the State Election Commission.


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(B)   The State Election Commission is directed to establish policies and procedures for all recounts which must be followed by local election commissions."

SECTION   5.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-17-75.   (A)   For purposes of this section:

(1)   'Frivolous' means the basis or factual content of the protest, excluding technical aspects, is of no significance for purposes of stating a claim upon which relief may be granted.

(2)   'Without merit' means without credible evidence that the election law or a candidate's rights in an election have been violated in a manner or to the degree necessary to change the outcome of the election.

(B)   If a candidate protests an election on any ground other than the disparity of the number of ballots cast, and if the board hearing the protest determines the protest was frivolous and without merit, the losing candidate who filed the frivolous protest is liable to the winning candidate and to the board hearing the protest for all costs incurred by the winning candidate in connection with the protest, and for all administrative costs incurred by the board in connection with hearing the protest, respectively."

SECTION   6.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-15-335.   Before each primary for the general election and the general election, the county board of registration or a trained and certified designee of the board shall, after prior notification, visit each nursing home or assisted living facility in the county, and offer residents who are qualified the opportunity to apply for an absentee ballot. If the voter needs assistance in completing the application, the board member or designee must provide such assistance and return the completed application to the office of the voter registration board. After determining qualification, the board member or designee must deliver the appropriate absentee ballots to each applicant, provide assistance if necessary and requested, return the voted ballots to the absentee precinct, and deposit the sealed envelope containing the voted ballots in the ballot box provided. All provisions and safeguards established by law regarding absentee voting that are not in conflict with this section are not affected by these provisions."

SECTION   7.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-15-470.   Notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter, a county board of registration may use other methods of voting by absentee ballot instead of by paper ballot. No voting machine or voting system, other than a paper-based system, may be used for in-person


Printed Page 4302 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

absentee voting that has not received written certification from the State Election Commission that the voting machine or voting system meets all statutory requirements for use in the State and certification that the machine can be secured against voting at times other than business hours of the county board of registration, that the results of elections can be held secure from release until the time for counting ballots at any polling place, and votes cast using the machine can be challenged and held secure until the hearing on challenged ballots required by Section 7-13-830 is held. The State Election Commission must develop standards and guidelines for these purposes."

SECTION   8.   Section 7-13-190(B) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 412 of 1998, is further amended to read:

"(B)   In partisan elections, whether seeking nomination by political party primary or political party convention, filing by these candidates shall open for the office at twelve o'clock noon on the third Friday after the vacancy occurs for a period to close ten days later at twelve o'clock noon. If seeking nomination by petition, the petitions must be submitted not later than twelve o'clock noon, sixty days prior to the election. Verification of these petitions must be made not later than twelve o'clock noon forty-five days prior to the election. If seeking nomination by political party primary or political party convention, filing with the appropriate official is the same as provided in Section 7-11-15 and if seeking nomination by petition, filing with the appropriate official is the same as provided in Section 7-11-70.

A primary must be held on the eleventh Tuesday after the vacancy occurs. A runoff primary must be held on the thirteenth Tuesday after the vacancy occurs. The special election must be on the eighteenth Tuesday after the vacancy occurs. If the eighteenth Tuesday after the vacancy occurs is no more than sixty days prior to before, or no more than fifteen days after the general election, the special election shall be held on the same day as the general election. If the filing period closes on a state holiday, then filing must be held open through the succeeding weekday. If the date for an election falls on a state holiday, it must be set for the next succeeding Tuesday. For purposes of this section, state holiday does not mean the general election day."

SECTION   9.   Section 7-13-860 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 434 of 1996, is further amended to read:

"Section 7-13-860.   Each candidate who is not unopposed in a primary and each nonpartisan candidate, including announced write-in candidates in a general or special election, may appoint a watcher for any voting place where his name appears on the ballot. However, in


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any general or special election, all candidates who are certified by a political party must be jointly represented at each polling place by not more than two watchers from the party for each one thousand registered voters or fraction thereof registered at the polling place. Each watcher appointed hereunder under this section must be a qualified voter in the county where he is to watch State, and must be certified, in writing, to the managers of the voting precinct to which assigned. This certification must be signed by the primary or nonpartisan candidate or, in the case of watchers jointly representing all candidates of a political party, by an appropriate party official. Watchers must, at all times, wear visible identification specifying the candidate or party, as appropriate, which they represent. The identification badge of a poll watcher may not exceed four and one-fourth inches by four and one-fourth inches with individual letters on the badge not exceeding one-quarter inch in height or width. Badges may not be a color that has a fluorescent quality. After qualification, watchers must be placed in an area designated by the poll managers where the watchers can observe the entire election process at that polling place. No watcher may conduct himself in a manner that will interfere in the orderly conduct of the election or influence any voter in the casting of his ballot."

SECTION   10.   Section 7-13-1120 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 7-13-1120.   (A)   If a voter marks more names than there are persons to be elected or nominated to an office or if for any reason it is impossible to determine the voter's choice for any office to be filled, his ballot shall must not be counted for such the office; but this shall not vitiate the ballot, so far as properly marked. Nothing herein in this section shall may be construed to prevent any voter in a general or special election from voting for any qualified person, other than those whose names are printed on the ballot, by writing in the name of the person opposite the office.

(B)   The integrity of the ballot is the voter's responsibility. If a hand count, pursuant to Section 7-13-1115, is conducted the intent of the voter must be clear from the face of the ballot pursuant to policies and procedures established by the State Election Commission."

SECTION   11.   Section 7-13-1340 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 103 of 1999, is further amended to read:

"Section 7-13-1340.   No vote recorder or optical scan voting device shall may be adopted or used unless it shall, at the time, satisfy the following requirements:


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(a)   It shall provide provides facilities for voting for such the candidates as may be nominated and upon such the questions as may be submitted;

(b)   It shall permit permits each elector, at other than primaries, to vote a straight party or body ticket, with the exception of candidates for the offices of presidential electors, in one operation; and, in one operation, to vote for all the candidates of one party or body for presidential electors; and, in one operation, to vote for all the candidates of one party or body for every office to be voted for, except those offices as to which he votes for individual candidates and the offices of presidential electors;

(c)   Except as provided in subsection (b) for presidential electors, it shall permit permits each elector, at other than primaries, to vote a ticket selected from the nominees of any and all parties or bodies, from independent nominations, and from persons not in nomination;

(d)   It shall permit permits each elector to vote, at any election, for any person and for any office for whom and for which he is lawfully entitled to vote, whether or not the name of such the person or persons appears upon a ballot label as a candidate for election, and to vote for as many persons for an office as he is entitled to vote for, and to vote for or against any question upon which he is entitled to vote;

(e)   When when used in conjunction with a tabulating machine, it shall preclude the counting of votes for any candidate, or upon any question, for whom or upon which an elector is not entitled to vote, and shall preclude the counting of votes for more persons for any office than he is entitled to vote for or for fewer than he is required to vote for, and shall preclude the counting of votes for any candidate for the same office or upon any question more than once;

(f)   It shall permit voting in absolute secrecy, so that no person can see or know for whom any other elector has voted or is voting, save an elector whom he has assisted or is assisting in voting, as prescribed by law;

(g)   It shall must be constructed of material of good quality, in a neat and workmanlike manner;

(h)   It shall, when properly operated, record correctly and accurately every vote cast;

(i)   It shall must be so constructed that an elector may readily learn the method of operating it; and

(j)     It shall must be safely transportable. and

(k)   If if approved after July 1, 1999, or if an upgrade in software, hardware, or firmware is submitted for approval as required by Section


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7-13-1330(C), the voting system must be able to electronically transmit vote totals for all elections to the State Election Commission in a format and time frame specified by the commission."

SECTION   12.   Section 7-15-330 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 193 of 1989, is amended to read:

"Section 7-15-330.   To vote by absentee ballot, a qualified elector or a member of his immediate family must request an application to vote by absentee ballot in person, by telephone, or by mail in writing from the county registration board, or at an extension office of the board of registration as established by the county governing body, for the county of the voter's residence. Any form for requesting an application for an absentee ballot that is produced and distributed by a candidate or political party must be approved by the State Election Commission before its use. The commission's written approval and a copy of the form must be on file at the commission's office and available for public inspection. A person requesting an application for a qualified elector as the qualified elector's authorized representative must request an application to vote by absentee ballot in person or by mail in writing only and must himself be a registered voter and must sign an oath to the effect that he fits the statutory definition of a representative. A person who represents himself as an authorized representative for a qualified elector who fraudulently signs the required oath is in violation of Section 7-25-190 and, upon conviction, is subject to the penalties for that offense. This signed oath must be kept on file with the board of registration until the end of the calendar year or until all contests concerning a particular election have been finally determined, whichever is later. A candidate or a member of a candidate's paid campaign staff, including volunteers reimbursed for time expended on campaign activity, is not allowed to request applications for absentee voting for any person designated in this section unless the person is a member of the immediate family. A request for an application to vote by absentee ballot may be made anytime during the calendar year in which the election in which the qualified elector desires to be permitted to vote by absentee ballot is being held. However, completed applications must be returned to the county registration board in person or by mail before 5:00 p.m. on the fourth day before the day of the election. Applications must be accepted by the county board of registration until 5:00 p.m. on the day immediately preceding the election for those who appear in person and are qualified to vote absentee pursuant to Section 7-15-320. A member of the immediate family of a person who is admitted to a hospital as an


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emergency patient on the day of an election or within a four-day period before the election may obtain an application from the registration board on the day of an election, complete it, receive the ballot, deliver it personally to the patient who shall vote, and personally carry the ballot back to the board of registration. The board of registration shall serially number each absentee ballot application form and keep a record book in which must be recorded the number of the form, the name, home address, and absentee mailing address of the person for whom the absentee ballot application form is requested; the name, address, voter registration number, and relationship of the person requesting the form, if other than the applicant; the date upon which the form is requested; and the date upon which the form is issued. This information becomes a public record at 9:00 a.m. on the day immediately preceding the election, except that forms issued for emergency hospital patients must be made public by 9:00 a.m. on the day following an election. A person Any voter who violates the provisions of this section is subject to the penalties provided for in Section 7-25-170 7-25-20."

SECTION   13.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-13-1885.   As part of the canvassing and announcement of the results an election required by Section 7-13-1880, the entity charged by law with conducting the election shall report the aggregate number of electors signing the poll list. This number must be included in the report of the entity charged by law with conducting the election to the State Election Commission."

SECTION   14.   Section 7-13-110 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 337 of 2000, is further amended to read:

"Section 7-13-110.   All managers of election for the various polling places in the State must be residents and registered electors of the respective counties in which they are appointed to work or in an adjoining county. Any A person at least sixteen years of age who has completed the training required by Section 7-13-72 and who is not otherwise disqualified by law may be appointed as a poll manager's assistant by the appropriate county election commission. Sixteen and seventeen-year-olds A sixteen or seventeen-year-old appointed as a poll manager's assistants assistant may not serve as chairman of the managers or clerk in the polling place to which they are appointed. They Sixteen and seventeen-year-olds must serve under supervision of the chairman of the managers of the polling place, and their specific duties must be prescribed by the county election commission. No polling place in this State may employ more than one One sixteen or


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seventeen-year-old assistant poll manager may be appointed for every two regular poll workers appointed to work in a precinct."

SECTION   15.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-13-310.   A referendum on the question of raising the millage limit of a governing body must be held either at the time of the general election or on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November of an odd-numbered year."

SECTION   16.   A.   In order that counties of the State of South Carolina shall be eligible to receive the maximum allowable 'block grant' matching funds for a voter improvement program provided by federal funding created in United States Senate Bill S-565 and United States House of Representatives Bill HR-3295 as currently in conference committees of the Congress, a state committee is hereby established consisting of five members, two of whom shall be members of the Senate appointed by the President Pro Tempore, two of whom shall be members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House, and one of whom shall be the chairman of the State Election Commission, all members to serve ex officio. The committee, once the federal legislation becomes law, shall establish a state application plan and certification criteria and specifications under the plan in order that counties within the State, who are interested in doing so, will have a state application plan in place as required under the above referenced federal provisions in order to apply for and timely meet necessary guidelines for early qualification for the purpose of receiving maximum 'block grant' matching federal funding of eight or ninety percent as provided under these federal provisions.

The committee shall organize and elect those officers as it considers necessary. Once the state application plan is established, the committee shall be dissolved and administration of the plan on the state level shall be performed by the State Election Commission.

B.   Notwithstanding the general effective date of this act, this section takes effect upon approval of this act by the Governor.

SECTION   17.   This act takes effect January 1, 2003. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. FLEMING explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The Senate amendments, as amended, were then agreed to and the Bill was ordered returned to the Senate.


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H. 3144--DEBATE ADJOURNED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3144 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, W. D. Smith, Vaughn, Delleney, Walker, Merrill, Cotty, Thompson, Edge, Simrill and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LOBBYIST'S REPORTING OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-35, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOBBYISTS' PRINCIPALS' REPORTING OF LOBBYING EXPENDITURES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE AGENCY OR DEPARTMENT REPORT OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING THE REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-90, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ACTS PROHIBITED OF LOBBYISTS' PRINCIPALS, ACTS PROHIBITED OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES, EXCEPTIONS, AND DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXCLUDE CABINET OFFICERS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-100, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN THE ETHICS, GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CAMPAIGN REFORM ACT, SO AS TO DELETE WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTION", A BALLOT MEASURE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-320, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A NOTICE OF WAIVER BE FORWARDED TO THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION AFTER A COMPLAINT HAS BEEN DISMISSED WHEN IT DOES NOT ALLEGE FACTS SUFFICIENT TO CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-530, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ETHICS COMMITTEES, SO AS TO INCLUDE LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS COMMITTEES WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF A COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1300, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROVISIONS RELATING TO CAMPAIGN PRACTICES, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "COMMITTEE" TO INCLUDE AN INDIVIDUAL WHO, TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF AN ELECTIVE


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OFFICE, MAKES INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES AGGREGATING FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS OR MORE DURING AN ELECTION CYCLE, TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTION" TO DELETE BALLOT MEASURE WITHIN ITS DEFINITION, TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURE" TO INCLUDE AN EXPENDITURE MADE UPON CONSULTATION WITH A COMMITTEE OR AGENT OF A COMMITTEE OR A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE OR AN AGENT OF A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE, BY DEFINING "BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE" AND "INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF AN ELECTIVE OFFICE"; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1302, RELATING TO MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS OF CONTRIBUTIONS BY A CANDIDATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1304, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT COMMITTEES RECEIVING AND SPENDING FUNDS MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WHICH RECEIVES OR EXPENDS MORE THAN ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS IN THE AGGREGATE DURING AN ELECTION CYCLE TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF A BALLOT MEASURE TO FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION AND DELETE THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE STATEMENT TO BE FILED BY A COMMITTEE WHICH RECEIVES OR EXPENDS MORE THAN FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1306, RELATING TO THE CONTENTS OF A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WHERE APPLICABLE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1308, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FILING OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS BY CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE MAKING OF INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES WITHIN THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1309, SO AS TO REQUIRE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE REQUIRED TO FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION MUST FILE AN INITIAL CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORT WHEN IT RECEIVES OR EXPENDS CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS TOTALING CERTAIN SPECIFIED AMOUNTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1310, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE RECIPIENTS OF CERTAIN CAMPAIGN REPORTS AND COPIES OF THEM AND THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION REVIEW, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE

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REQUIREMENT TO SEND CAMPAIGN REPORTS TO THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1316, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED FROM POLITICAL PARTIES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A POLITICAL PARTY FROM RECEIVING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH ITS PARTY COMMITTEES OR LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS COMMITTEES WHICH TOTAL CERTAIN AGGREGATE AMOUNTS AND PROVIDE THAT A CONTRIBUTION GIVEN IN VIOLATION OF SUBSECTION (A) OF THIS SECTION MAY NOT BE KEPT BY THE RECIPIENT, BUT WITHIN TEN DAYS REMIT IT TO THE CHILDREN'S TRUST FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1324, RELATING TO ANONYMOUS CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THESE CONTRIBUTIONS TO A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1332, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONTRIBUTIONS AND EXPENDITURES, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE AS WELL AS A COMMITTEE AND DELETE FROM THE PROHIBITION AN ORGANIZATION OR COMMITTEE OF AN ORGANIZATION TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ORGANIZATION COMMITTEE FROM A PERSON OTHER THAN ITS MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1333 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE NOT-FOR PROFIT-CORPORATIONS AND COMMITTEES FORMED BY NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1354, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE IDENTIFICATION OF A PERSON INDEPENDENTLY PAYING FOR ELECTION-RELATED COMMUNICATION, SO AS TO DELETE A BALLOT MEASURE FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1366, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AS A LOCATION OF THESE REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1368, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF CAMPAIGN FILING REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEES WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1370, RELATING TO THE USE OF UNEXPENDED CONTRIBUTIONS BY A CANDIDATE AFTER AN ELECTION, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WITHIN THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION;

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TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1372, RELATING TO TECHNICAL VIOLATIONS OF RULES ON CAMPAIGN REPORTS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION FOR THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AS THE AGENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR DETERMINING ERRORS OR OMISSIONS ON CAMPAIGN REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1510, RELATING TO THE PENALTY FOR LATE FILING OF OR FAILURE TO FILE A REPORT OR STATEMENT, SO AS TO DELETE THE FIVE HUNDRED DOLLAR MAXIMUM FINE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1520, RELATING TO A VIOLATION OF CHAPTER 13 OF TITLE 8, SO AS TO MAKE CERTAIN VIOLATIONS OF ARTICLE 13 OF CHAPTER 8 A MISDEMEANOR AND PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

Rep. HARRISON proposed the following Amendment No. 1A (Doc Name COUNCIL\PT\AMEND\1060DW02):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-30(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Each lobbyist, no later than April tenth and October tenth of each year, must file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that lobbyist's lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods shall be are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and shall be are from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-20(C) must be reported no later than December thirty-first of that January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   2.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-35(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Except as otherwise provided by Section 2-17-90(E), each lobbyist's principal, no later than April tenth and October tenth of each year, must file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that lobbyist's principal's expenditures attributable to lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods shall be are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and shall be are from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying


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activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-25(C) must be reported no later than December thirty-first of that January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   3.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-40(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Each state agency or department shall must, no later than April first tenth and October first tenth of each year, file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that agency's lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-25(C) must be reported no later than January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   4.   Section 2-17-90(A)(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(1)   as to members of the General Assembly, a function to which a member of the General Assembly is invited if the entire membership of the House, the Senate, or the General Assembly is invited, or one of the committees, subcommittees, joint committees, legislative caucuses, or county legislative delegations of the General Assembly of which the legislator is a member is invited. However, the Speaker of the House and Speaker Pro Tempore of the House may be included in an invitation to one of the above groups. In addition, invitations may be extended at national and regional conventions and conferences to all members in attendance;"
SECTION   5.   Section 2-17-90(A) of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"(7)   as to cabinet officers, a function to which all cabinet officers are invited."
SECTION   6.   Section 2-17-90(B) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(B)   No lobbyist's principal or person acting on behalf of a lobbyist's principal may provide to a public official or a public employee pursuant to subsections (A)(1), (A)(2), (A)(3), (A)(4), or (A)(5), or (A)(7) the value of lodging, transportation, entertainment, food, meals, or beverages exceeding twenty-five dollars in a day and


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two hundred dollars in a calendar year per public official or public employee."
SECTION   7.   Section 8-13-100(12) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(12)   'Election' means:

(a)   a general, special, primary, or runoff election;

(b)   a convention or caucus of a political party held to nominate a candidate; or

(c)   the election of delegates to a constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of this State; or

(d)   a ballot measure."
SECTION   8.   Section 8-13-320(10)(b) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(b)   If the commission or its executive director determines that the complaint does not allege facts sufficient to constitute a violation, the commission shall must dismiss the complaint and notify the complainant and respondent, and the entire matter must be stricken from public record unless the respondent, by written authorization to the State Ethics Commission, waives the confidentiality of the existence of the complaint and authorizes the release of information about the disposition of the complaint."
SECTION   9.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-365.   (A)   The commission must establish a system of electronic filing for disclosures and reports from all candidates and entities. In accordance with Article 13 of this chapter, reports required to be filed with the commission by candidates and committees for statewide and legislative offices after November 2, 2004, must be filed using an Internet-based filing system as prescribed by the commission. The information contained in the campaign disclosure form, with the exception of social security numbers, campaign bank account numbers, and tax ID numbers, must be publicly accessible, searchable, and transferable.

(B)   All disclosures and reports required to be filed in accordance with Article 13 of this chapter by candidates and committees for statewide and legislative offices for the election cycle beginning November 3, 2004, must be filed electronically according to requirements established by the commission. The commission remains the appropriate supervisory office for those candidates and committees set forth in Section 8-13-1300(1).


Printed Page 4314 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(C)   The Ethics Commission must submit to the General Assembly a report no later than January 10, 2006, concerning the effectiveness of mandatory electronic filing, and must make recommendations as to the implementation of mandatory filing for all other candidates and entities."
SECTION   10.   Section 8-13-530(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(1)   upon the filing of a complaint, investigate possible violations of breach of a privilege governing a member of the appropriate house, the alleged breach of a rule governing a member of, legislative caucus committees for, or candidate for the appropriate house, misconduct of a member of, legislative caucus committees for, or candidate for the appropriate house, or a violation of this chapter or Chapter 17 of Title 2;"
SECTION   11.   Section 8-13-1300(6) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(6)   'Committee' means an association, a club, an organization, or a group of persons which, to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure, receives contributions or makes expenditures in excess of five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle. It also means an individual a person who, to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure, makes:

(a)   contributions aggregating at least fifty thousand dollars during an election cycle to, or at the request of, a candidate or a committee, or a combination of them.; or

(b)   independent expenditures aggregating five hundred dollars or more during an election cycle for the election or defeat of a candidate.

'Committee' includes a party committee, a legislative caucus committee, a noncandidate committee, or a committee that is not a campaign committee for a candidate but that is organized for the purpose of influencing an election."
SECTION   12.   Section 8-13-1300(9) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(9)   'Election' means:

(a)   a general, special, primary, or runoff election;

(b)   a convention or caucus of a political party held to nominate a candidate; or

(c)   the election of delegates to a constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of this State; or


Printed Page 4315 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(d)   a ballot measure."
SECTION   13.   Section 8-13-1300(17) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(17)   'Independent expenditure' means:

(a)   an expenditure made by a person to advocate the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate or ballot measure; and

(b)   when taken as a whole and in context, the expenditure made by a person expressly to urge a particular result in an election to influence the outcome of an elective office or ballot measure but which is not:

(i)     made to;

(ii)   controlled by;

(iii)   coordinated with;

(iv)   requested by; or

(v)   made upon consultation with a candidate or an agent of a candidate; or a committee or agent of a committee; or a ballot measure committee or an agent of a ballot measure committee.

Expenditures by party committees or expenditures by legislative caucus committees based upon party affiliation are considered to be controlled by, coordinated with, requested by, or made upon consultation with a candidate or an agent of a candidate."
SECTION   14.   Section 8-13-1300 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding appropriately numbered items at the end to read:

"( )   'Ballot measure committee' means:

(a)   an association, club, an organization, or a group of persons which, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, receives contributions or makes expenditures in excess of two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle;

(b)   a person, other than an individual, who, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, makes contributions aggregating at least fifty thousand dollars during an election cycle to, or at the request of, a ballot measure committee; or

(c)   a person, other than an individual, who, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, makes independent expenditures aggregating two thousand five hundred dollars or more during an election cycle.

( )   'Influence the outcome of an elective office' means:

(a)   expressly advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate using words including or substantially similar to 'vote for', 'elect', 'cast your ballot for', 'Smith for Governor', 'vote against', 'defeat', or 'reject'; or


Printed Page 4316 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(b)   communicating campaign slogans or individual words that, taken in context, have no other reasonable meaning other than to urge the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate including or substantially similar to slogans or words such as 'Smith's the One', 'Jones 2000', 'Smith/Jones', 'Jones!', or 'Smith-A man for the People!'

( )   'Coordinated with' means:

Discussion or negotiation between a candidate or a candidate's agent and: (a) a person; (b) an agent of a person; (c) any other agent of a candidate; or (d) any combination of these concerning, but not limited to, a political communication's:

(1)   contents, including the specific wording of print, broadcast, or telephone communications; appearance of print or broadcast communications; the message or theme of print or broadcast communications;

(2)   timing, including the proximity to general or primary elections, proximity to other political communications, and proximity to other campaign events;

(3)   location, including the proximity to other political communications, or geographical targeting, or both;

(4)   mode, including the medium (phone, broadcast, print, etc.) of the communication;

(5)   intended audience, including the demographic or political targeting, or geographical targeting; and

(6)   volume, including the amount, frequency, or size of the political communication."
SECTION   15.   Section 8-13-1302 of the 1976 Code, added by Act 248 of 1991, is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1302.   A candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee shall must maintain and preserve an account of:

(1)   the total of contributions accepted by the candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee;

(2)   the name and address of each person making a contribution and the date of receipt of each contribution;

(3)   the total of expenditures made by or on behalf of the candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee;

(4)   the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure; and

(5)   all receipted bills, canceled checks, or other proof of payment for each expenditure.


Printed Page 4317 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(B)   The candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee must maintain and preserve all receipted bills and accounts required by this article for four years."
SECTION   16.   Section 8-13-1304 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1304.   (A)   A committee, except an out-of-state committee, which receives or expends more than five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of an elective office or ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after receiving the contribution or making the expenditure. An out-of-state committee which expends more than five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after making the expenditure.

(B)   A ballot measure committee, except an out-of-state committee, which receives or expends more than two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after receiving the contribution or making the expenditure. An out-of-state ballot measure committee which expends more than two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after making the expenditure."
SECTION   17.   Section 8-13-1306 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1306.   (A)   The statement of organization of a committee or a ballot measure committee must include:

(1)   the full name of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(2)   the complete address and telephone number of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(3)   the date the committee or ballot measure committee was organized;

(4)   a summary of the purpose of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(5)   the name and address of a corporation or an organization that sponsors the committee or ballot measure committee or is affiliated


Printed Page 4318 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

with the committee or ballot measure committee. If the committee or ballot measure committee is not sponsored by or affiliated with a corporation or an organization, the committee or ballot measure committee must specify the trade, profession, or primary interest of contributors to the committee or ballot measure committee;

(6)   the full name, address, telephone number, occupation, and principal place of business of the chairman and treasurer of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(7)   the full name, address, telephone number, occupation, and principal place of business of the custodian of the books and accounts, if other than the custodian is not one of the designated officers;

(8)   the full name and address of the depository in which the committee or ballot measure committee maintains its campaign account and the number of the account; and

(9)   a certification of the statement by the chairman and the treasurer.

(B)   The name of the committee or ballot measure committee designated on the statement of organization must incorporate the full name of the sponsoring entity, if any. An acronym or abbreviation may be used in other communications if the acronym or abbreviation commonly is known or clearly recognized by the general public.

(C)   The chairman must notify the State Ethics Commission in writing of a change in information previously reported in a statement of organization no later than ten business days after the change."
SECTION   18.   Section 8-13-1308 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding a new subsection to read:

"(G)   Notwithstanding any other reporting requirements in this chapter, a political party, legislative caucus committee, and a party committee must file a certified campaign report upon the receipt of anything of value which total in the aggregate five hundred dollars or more. For purposes of this section, 'anything of value' includes contributions received which may be used for the payment of operation expenses of a political party, legislative caucus committee, or a party committee. A political party must also comply with the reporting requirements of subsections (B), (C), and (F) of Section 8-13-1308 in the same manner as a candidate or committee."
SECTION   19.   Section 8-13-1308(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1308.   (A)   Upon the receipt or expenditure of campaign contributions or the making of independent expenditures totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, of five hundred dollars or more,


Printed Page 4319 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

a candidate or committee required to file a statement of organization pursuant to Section 8-13-1304(A) must file an initial certified campaign report within ten days of these initial receipts or expenditures. However, a candidate or a committee that who does not receive or expend campaign contributions totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, of five hundred dollars or more must file an initial certified campaign report fifteen days before an election. In addition to the mandatory requirements of Section 8-13-365(B), any candidate or committee may file electronically."
SECTION   20.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1309.   (A)   Upon the receipt or expenditure of campaign contributions or the making of independent expenditures totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, two thousand five hundred dollars or more, a ballot measure committee required to file a statement of organization pursuant to Section 8-13-1304(B) must file an initial certified campaign report within ten days of these initial receipts or expenditures.

(B)   Following the filing of an initial certified campaign report, additional certified campaign reports must be filed within ten days following the end of each calendar quarter in which contributions are received or expenditures are made, whether before or after a ballot measure election until the campaign account undergoes final disbursement pursuant to the provisions of Section 8-13-1370(C).

(C)   At least fifteen days before a ballot measure election, a certified campaign report must be filed showing contributions of more than one hundred dollars and expenditures to or by the ballot measure committee for the period ending twenty days before the ballot measure election. The ballot measure committee must maintain a current list during the period before the ballot measure election commencing at the beginning of the calendar quarter of the election of all contributions of more than one hundred dollars. The list must be open to public inspection upon request.

(D)   Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (B) and (C), if a pre-election campaign report provided for in subsection (C) is required to be filed within thirty days of the end of the prior quarter, a ballot measure committee must combine the quarterly report provided for in subsection (B) and the pre-election report and file the combined report subject to the provisions of subsection (C) no later than fifteen days before the ballot measure election.

(E)   Certified campaign reports detailing campaign contributions and expenditures must contain:


Printed Page 4320 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(1)   the total of contributions accepted by the ballot measure committee;

(2)   the name and address of each person making a contribution of more than one hundred dollars and the date of receipt of each contribution;

(3)   the total expenditures made by or on behalf of the ballot measure committee; and

(4)   the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made from campaign funds, including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure."
SECTION   21.   Section 8-13-1310 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1310.   (A)   All persons required to file certified campaign reports under this article must file those reports with the appropriate supervisory office.

(B)   The Senate Ethics Committee and the House of Representatives Ethics Committee must forward a copy of each statement filed with it to the State Ethics Commission within five business days of receipt.

(C)   Within five days of receipt, a copy of all campaign reports received by the State Ethics Commission must be forwarded to the State Election Commission and the clerk of court in the county of residence of the person required to file.

(D)   As provided in Section 8-13-1372, the State Election Ethics Commission must review all statements forwarded to it by the State Ethics Commission for inadvertent and unintentional errors or omissions."
SECTION   22.   Section 8-13-1316 of the 1976 Code, added by Act 248 of 1991, is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1316.   (A)   Within an election cycle, a candidate may not accept or receive contributions from a political party through its party committees or legislative caucus committees and a political party through its party committees or legislative caucus committees may not give to a candidate contributions which total in the aggregate more than:

(1)   fifty thousand dollars in the case of a candidate for statewide office; or

(2)   five thousand dollars in the case of a candidate for any other office.

(B)   Party expenditures for partisan multi-candidate promotions for four or more candidates, including candidates for the United States


Printed Page 4321 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Senate or the United States House of Representatives, where each candidate receives substantially equal treatment, both in terms of time or length discussed and prominence in presentation, shall not be included in the contribution limits under subsection (A). However, multi-candidate promotional expenditures are limited to:

(1)   the operation of telephone banks;

(2)   the preparation, mailing, and distribution of campaign materials including newspaper, television, and radio advertisements; or

(3)   voter registration and ballot information.

(C)   The recipient of a contribution given in violation of subsection (A) may not keep the contribution, but within ten days must remit the contribution to the Children's Trust Fund."
SECTION   23.   Section 8-13-1324 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1324.   (A)   A person may not make an anonymous contribution to a candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee, and a candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee may not accept an anonymous contribution from an individual except at a ticketed event where food or beverages are served or where political merchandise is distributed and where the price of the ticket is twenty-five dollars or less and goes toward defraying the cost of food, beverages, or political merchandise in whole or in part.

(B)   The recipient of an anonymous contribution given in violation of subsection (A) or the recipient of any other anonymous contribution may not keep the contribution but within seven days must remit the contribution to the Children's Trust Fund."
SECTION   24.   Section 8-13-1332 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1332.   It is unlawful for:

(1)   a committee or ballot measure committee to make a contribution or expenditure by using:

(a)   anything of value secured by physical force, job discrimination, financial reprisals, or threat of the same;

(b)   dues, fees, or other monies required as a condition of membership in a labor organization, or as a condition of employment; or

(c)   monies obtained by the committee or the ballot measure committee in a commercial transaction.

(2)   a person to solicit an employee for a contribution and fail to inform the employee of the political purposes of the committee or ballot measure committee and of the employee's right to refuse to


Printed Page 4322 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

contribute without any advantage or promise of an advantage conditioned upon making the contribution or reprisal or threat of reprisal related to the failure to make the contribution; and

(3)   a corporation or committee of a corporation to solicit contributions to the corporation or committee from a person other than its shareholders, directors, executive or administrative personnel, and their families;, except as provided in Section 8-13-1333

(4)   an organization or committee of an organization to solicit contributions to the organization or committee from a person other than its members and their families."
SECTION   25.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1333.   (A)   Not-for-profit corporations and committees formed by not-for-profit corporations may solicit contributions from the general public;

(B)   An organization or a committee of an organization may solicit contributions from the general public."
SECTION   26.   Section 8-13-1348(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1348.   (A)   No candidate, committee, public official, or political party, or ballot measure committee may use campaign funds to defray personal expenses which are unrelated to the campaign or the office if the candidate is an officeholder; nor may these funds be converted to personal use. The prohibition of this subsection does not extend to the incidental personal use of campaign materials or equipment nor to an expenditure used to defray any ordinary expenses incurred in connection with an individual's duties as a holder of elective office."
SECTION   27.   Section 8-13-1354 of the 1976 Code, as amended by Act 6 of 1995 is further amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1354.   A candidate, committee, or other person which makes an expenditure in the distribution, posting, or broadcasting of a communication to voters supporting or opposing a public official, or a candidate, or a ballot measure must place his name and address on the printed matter or have his name spoken clearly on a broadcast so as to identify accurately the person and his address. Campaign buttons, balloons, yard signs, or similar items are exempt from this requirement."
SECTION   28.   Section 8-13-1366 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1366.   Certified campaign reports must be made available for public inspection at the office of the State Ethics


Printed Page 4323 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Commission, the State Election Commission, the Senate Ethics Committee, the House of Representatives Ethics Committee, and the county clerk of court within two business days of receipt. The commissions, ethics committees, and county clerks of court may shall not require any information or identification as a condition of viewing a report or reports. The commissions commission, ethics committees, and the county clerks of court shall must ensure that the reports are available for copying or purchase at a reasonable cost."
SECTION   29.   Section 8-13-1368 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1368.   (A)   A candidate is not exempt from the campaign filing requirements as provided in this article until after an election in which the candidate is a candidate or is defeated and after the candidate no longer accepts contributions, incurs expenditures, or pays for expenditures incurred.

(B)   Committees or ballot measure committees may dissolve only after no longer accepting contributions, incurring expenditures, or paying for expenditures incurred.

(C)   If a committee or a ballot measure committee owes or is owed money, the committee or a ballot measure committee may dissolve, but must report the status of the debt annually on the same schedule as active committees or ballot measure committees until all debts are resolved. The method of resolution to eliminate these debts, including contributions accepted and payment for expenditures incurred, must be stated on the report.

(D)   A final report may be filed at the time or before a scheduled filing is due. The form must be marked 'final' and include a list of the material assets worth one hundred dollars or more and state their disposition."
SECTION   30.   Section 8-13-1370(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   A committee or ballot measure committee required to file reports under this article which has an unexpended balance of funds upon final disbursement not otherwise obligated for expenditures incurred to further the committee's or ballot measure committee's purposes must designate how the surplus funds are to be distributed. The surplus funds must be:

(1)   contributed to the state's general fund;

(2)   returned pro rata to all contributors;

(3)   (a)   if a committee, contributed to a political party or to another committee;


Printed Page 4324 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(b)   or if a ballot measure committee, to another ballot measure committee;

(4)   contributed to an organization exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; or

(5)   distributed using a combination of these options."
SECTION   31.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1371.   (A)   A ballot measure committee may not use or permit the use of contributions solicited for or received by the ballot measure committee for any purpose other than the purpose for which the ballot measure committee was originally created, unless a person making the contribution gives written authorization for a different use other than for which it was originally intended.

(B)   The State Ethics Commission shall have jurisdiction to seize all funds in a ballot measure committee's account and distribute them in accordance with subsection (D) of this section when the ballot measure committee violates the provisions of this section.

(C)   Within sixty days after the election or referendum at which the ballot measure committee attempted to influence the outcome of the election or referendum, the funds remaining in the ballot measure committee's account after the election or referendum must be distributed in accordance with subsection (D) of this section.

(D)   The seized funds must be:

(1)   contributed to the state's general fund;

(2)   contributed to an organization exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;

(3)   returned pro rata to all contributors; or

(4)   distributed using a combination of these options."
SECTION   32.   Section 8-13-1372 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1372.   (A)   The State Election Ethics Commission, in its discretion, may determine that errors or omissions on campaign reports are inadvertent and unintentional and not an effort to violate a requirement of this chapter and may be handled as technical violations which are not subject to the provisions of this chapter pertaining to ethical violations. Technical violations must remain confidential unless requested to be made public by the candidate filing the report. In lieu of all other penalties, the State Election Ethics Commission may assess a technical violations penalty not to exceed fifty dollars.

(B)   A violation, other than an inadvertent or unintentional violation, must be referred to the appropriate supervisory office for appropriate action."


Printed Page 4325 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

SECTION   33.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1373.   If the Attorney General, after request by the State or any of its political subdivisions, refuses to defend an action brought in a court of competent jurisdiction challenging any provision of this chapter, the Budget and Control Board, using funds appropriated to it, must defend the action brought against the State or its political subdivision."
SECTION   34.   Section 8-13-1510 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1510.   Except as otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, a person required to file a report or statement under this chapter who files a late statement or report or fails to file a required statement or report must be assessed a civil penalty as follows:

(1)   a fine of one hundred dollars if the statement or report is not filed within five days after the established deadline provided by law in this chapter; or

(2)   after notice has been given by certified or registered mail that a required statement or report has not been filed, a fine of ten dollars a day for each additional calendar day in which the required statement is not filed, not exceeding five hundred dollars."
SECTION   35.   Section 8-13-1520 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1520.   (A)   Except as otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, a person who violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars or be imprisoned for not more than one year, or both. A violation of the provisions of this chapter does not necessarily subject a public official to the provisions of Section 8-13-560.

(B)   Except as otherwise specifically provided for in Article 13 of this chapter, a person who violates any provision of Article 13 is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five hundred percent of the amount of contributions or anything of value that should have been reported pursuant to Article 13 but not less than five thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both.

(C)   A violation of the provisions of this chapter does not necessarily subject a public official to the provisions of Section 8-13-560."
SECTION   36.   The repeal or amendment by this act of any law, whether temporary or permanent or civil or criminal, does not affect


Printed Page 4326 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities founded thereon, or alter, discharge, release, or extinguish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under the repealed or amended law, unless the repealed or amended provision so expressly provides. After the effective date of this act, all laws repealed or amended by this act must be taken and treated as remaining in full force and effect for the purpose of sustaining any pending or vested right, civil action, special proceeding, criminal prosecution, or appeal existing as of the effective date of this act, and for the enforcement of rights, duties, penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities as they stood under the repealed or amended laws.
SECTION   37.   If any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or the validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words thereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.
SECTION   38.   This act takes effect January 1, 2003. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. HARRISON explained the amendment.

Rep. HARRISON moved to adjourn debate on the Senate Amendments, which was agreed to.

H. 5021--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 5021 (Word version) -- Rep. Ott: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT THE INTERCHANGES OF INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 95 WITH HIGHWAY 301 AND HIGHWAY 6 IN ORANGEBURG COUNTY MAY BE MOWED BEYOND THIRTY FEET FROM THE PAVEMENT.

Rep. COATES moved to adjourn debate on the Senate Amendments.


Printed Page 4327 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. OTT moved to table the motion, which was agreed to by a division vote of 28 to 13.

Rep. OTT explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

S. 1131--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 1131 (Word version) -- Senators Patterson, Giese, Courson and Jackson: A BILL TO ENACT THE "RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ACT" BY PROVIDING FOR THE IMPOSITION OF A SPECIAL ONE PERCENT SALES AND USE TAX IN RICHLAND COUNTY FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY YEARS WITH THE REVENUE OF THE TAX USED TO DEFRAY GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT SERVICE OR OTHERWISE DEFRAY THE COSTS OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS OF RICHLAND COUNTY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TAX MAY BE IMPOSED ONLY AFTER ITS APPROVAL IN A REFERENDUM HELD IN THE COUNTY, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REFERENDUM, AND TO PROVIDE THAT, IF IMPOSED, THE TAX MUST BE COLLECTED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND REMITTED TO THE RICHLAND COUNTY TREASURER FOR THE RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TAX IS IMPOSED AND IS SUBJECT TO THE SAME EXEMPTIONS AND MAXIMUM TAXES AS PROVIDED IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA SALES TAX ACT EXCEPT FOR AN ADDITIONAL EXEMPTION FOR FOOD ITEMS WHICH LAWFULLY MAY BE PURCHASED WITH UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOOD COUPONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE METHOD OF APPLYING THE REVENUES OF THE TAX TO SCHOOL DISTRICT GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT SERVICE.

Rep. MCLEOD moved to adjourn debate upon the Senate Amendments until Thursday, June 6.


Printed Page 4328 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. QUINN moved to table the motion.

Rep. QUINN demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 16; Nays 2

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Bales                  Bingham                Brown, J.
Edge                   Frye                   Harrison
Haskins                Huggins                Koon
Neal, J.H.             Quinn                  Riser
Rutherford             Scott                  Smith, J.E.
Stuart

Total--16

Those who voted in the negative are:

Lloyd                  McLeod

Total--2

So, the motion to adjourn debate was tabled.

Rep. MCLEOD spoke against the Senate Amendments.

The question then recurred to concur or nonconcur in the Senate Amendments.

Rep. SCOTT demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 15; Nays 1

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Bales                  Bingham                Brown, J.
Cotty                  Harrison               Howard
Huggins                Lourie                 Neal, J.H.
Parks                  Quinn                  Riser
Rutherford             Scott                  Smith, J.E.

Total--15


Printed Page 4329 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Those who voted in the negative are:
McLeod

Total--1

So, the Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

STATEMENT FOR THE JOURNAL

I would like the record to show that I oppose S. 1131 and urge non-concurrence with the Senate amendments. S. 1131 should be referred to a Conference Committee so that the harmful provisions relating to the Lexington-Richland School District 5 school board can be removed.

S. 1131 (Word version) contains provisions which would restructure the School District 5 school board such that school board members would no longer be elected via non numbered seats with the winners receiving a plurality of votes. Instead, S. 1131 requires that District 5 school board members be elected via numbered seats with election by a majority vote, with if necessary, a runoff. This provision would preclude a candidate from the Chapin community being elected to the school board because the Irmo area of Lexington County having a population of about 33,000 people will always outvote the Chapin area which has a population of about 10,000.

The change in governance of the Lexington-Richland School District 5 school board will have a highly detrimental impact on School District 5 and the schools located therein which is the standard by which other school districts in South Carolina are judged.

Rep. Walt McLeod

S. 1131--MOTION TO RECONSIDER TABLED

Rep. J. E. SMITH moved to reconsider the vote whereby the Senate Amendments were concurred in to the following Bill:

S. 1131 (Word version) -- Senators Patterson, Giese, Courson and Jackson: A BILL TO ENACT THE "RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ACT" BY PROVIDING FOR THE IMPOSITION OF A SPECIAL ONE PERCENT SALES AND USE TAX IN RICHLAND COUNTY FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY YEARS WITH THE REVENUE OF THE TAX USED TO DEFRAY GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT SERVICE OR OTHERWISE


Printed Page 4330 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

DEFRAY THE COSTS OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS OF RICHLAND COUNTY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TAX MAY BE IMPOSED ONLY AFTER ITS APPROVAL IN A REFERENDUM HELD IN THE COUNTY, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REFERENDUM, AND TO PROVIDE THAT, IF IMPOSED, THE TAX MUST BE COLLECTED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND REMITTED TO THE RICHLAND COUNTY TREASURER FOR THE RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TAX IS IMPOSED AND IS SUBJECT TO THE SAME EXEMPTIONS AND MAXIMUM TAXES AS PROVIDED IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA SALES TAX ACT EXCEPT FOR AN ADDITIONAL EXEMPTION FOR FOOD ITEMS WHICH LAWFULLY MAY BE PURCHASED WITH UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOOD COUPONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE METHOD OF APPLYING THE REVENUES OF THE TAX TO SCHOOL DISTRICT GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT SERVICE.

Rep. LOURIE moved to table the motion to reconsider, which was agreed to.

H. 4683--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 4683 (Word version) -- Reps. Campsen and Barfield: A BILL TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA STUDENT-LED MESSAGE ACT"; TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-1-441 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE GOVERNING BODY OF A SCHOOL BOARD OR SCHOOL DISTRICT TO ADOPT A POLICY THAT PERMITS THE USE OF A BRIEF OPENING OR CLOSING MESSAGE BY A STUDENT AT A HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION EXERCISE AND TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH THIS MESSAGE MAY BE DELIVERED; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-1-442 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE GOVERNING BODY OF A SCHOOL BOARD OR SCHOOL DISTRICT TO ADOPT A POLICY THAT PERMITS THE USE OF A BRIEF OPENING OR CLOSING MESSAGE BY A STUDENT AT A HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC OR OTHER EVENT


Printed Page 4331 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

AND TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH THIS MESSAGE MAY BE DELIVERED.

Rep. CAMPSEN explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

S. 1096--ORDERED RECOMMITTED TO THE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS, PURSUANT TO RULE 4.8

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 1096 (Word version) -- Senator Moore: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-140, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO IT BEING UNLAWFUL TO CARRY WEAPONS WHILE HUNTING RACCOONS, OPOSSUMS, OR FOX DURING THE PERIOD IT IS LAWFUL TO HUNT THEM WITHOUT WEAPONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS LAWFUL TO RUN RACCOONS WITH DOGS AT ANY TIME DURING THE YEAR.

Rep. WITHERSPOON explained the Senate Amendments.

The SPEAKER, citing Rule 4.8, ordered the Bill recommitted to the Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs.

H. 3595--RECOMMITTED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3595 (Word version) -- Reps. Thompson, A. Young, Hinson, Law, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Meacham-Richardson, Sandifer and White: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 2, TITLE 37, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LIMITATIONS ON AGREEMENTS AND PRACTICES IN CONNECTION WITH CONSUMER CREDIT SALES AND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 37, RELATING TO LIMITATIONS ON CONSUMER LOAN


Printed Page 4332 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

AGREEMENTS, BY ADDING SECTIONS 37-2-418 AND 37-3-418, BOTH SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SPECIFIC RESTRICTIONS ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF APPLICATIONS AND ADVERTISING AND ANY OTHER FORM OF SOLICITATION FOR OWNERSHIP OF A SELLER CREDIT CARD OR A LENDER CREDIT CARD BY A CREDIT CARD ISSUER ON THE CAMPUS OF A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THE STATE.

Rep. CATO moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry, which was agreed to.

H. 4771--SENATE AMENDMENTS AMENDED AND RETURNED TO THE SENATE

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 4771 (Word version) -- Reps. Keegan, Knotts, Hosey, Whipper, Clyburn, Frye, Gourdine, J. Hines, Kelley, Leach, Littlejohn and Whatley: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED CONCERNING THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF ARCHITECTS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "EMERITUS ARCHITECT"; TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-230, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR LICENSURE AS AN ARCHITECT, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CANADIAN ARCHITECTURAL CERTIFICATION BOARD AS AN ACCREDITING BODY OF SCHOOLS OR PROGRAMS FOR ARCHITECTS; TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-250, RELATING TO LICENSE RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXEMPT EMERITUS ARCHITECTS FROM CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS UNLESS RETURNING TO ACTIVE PRACTICE; TO ADD SECTION 40-3-255 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL EXAMINERS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION AND RESEARCH FUND, TO ALLOCATE REVENUE FROM RENEWAL FEES TO THE FUND, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE FUND; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-290, RELATING TO THOSE PERSONS AND ACTIVITIES EXEMPT FROM LICENSURE AND REGULATION AS AN ARCHITECT, SO AS TO REVISE A BUILDING CODE REFERENCE.


Printed Page 4333 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. CATO proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\NBD\AMEND\11889AC02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting Section 5 of the bill in its entirety, which reads as follows:
/SECTION   5.   The Labor Commerce, and Industry Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate shall conduct joint public hearings at various locations in the State relating to exceptions to the International Building Code and the Residential Building Code. These hearings must be completed before January 1, 2003./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. CATO explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The Senate amendments, as amended, were then agreed to and the Bill was ordered returned to the Senate.

H. 3823--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3823 (Word version) -- Reps. Altman, Hinson, Campsen and Easterday: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-3-130, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ALIMONY AND SECTION 20-3-150, RELATING TO THE SEGREGATION OF CHILD SUPPORT AND ALIMONY IN A COURT ORDER, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALIMONY IS TERMINATED UPON THE CONTINUED COHABITATION OF THE SUPPORTED SPOUSE AND TO DEFINE "CONTINUED COHABITATION".

Rep. EASTERDAY explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.


Printed Page 4334 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

S. 237--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 237 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 40, CHAPTER 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS, SO AS TO CONFORM THIS CHAPTER TO THE STATUTORY ORGANIZATIONAL FRAMEWORK ESTABLISHED FOR PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL BOARDS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, TO PROVIDE CITATION PENALTIES, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS, RESIDENTIAL SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS, AND HOME INSPECTORS.

Rep. CATO explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

S. 1203--RECOMMITTED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 1203 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE FEDERAL MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY AND PROHIBITIONS CONCERNING THE HUNTING OF WATERFOWL, SO AS TO REVISE PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO THE HUNTING OF MIGRATORY BIRDS AND WATERFOWL AND PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS SECTION.

Rep. WITHERSPOON moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs, which was agreed to.


Printed Page 4335 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

S. 379--RECOMMITTED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 379 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-15, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA MARINE RESOURCES ACT OF 2000, BY ADDING DEFINITIONS OF "SKIM-BOW NET", AND "STRETCH"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-330, RELATING TO RECREATIONAL FISHING, EQUIPMENT, AND COMMERCIAL MINNOW TRAPS, BY ADDING A PROVISION TO PROVIDE FOR A PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1510, RELATING TO SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR SHAD AND HERRING, TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF SKIM-BOW NETS SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SKIM-BOW NETS MUST BE USED FROM HIGH LAND OR STRUCTURES AFFIXED TO HIGH LAND WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED DEVICES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-15, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA MARINE RESOURCES ACT OF 2000, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE "ANADROMOUS", "DREDGE", "HERRING", "PEELER TRAP", "STRIKER", AND "TRAWLING"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-65, RELATING TO SEIZURE AND DISPOSITION OF CONTRABAND, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERISHABLE ITEMS SEIZED THE SALE OF WHICH IS NOT ILLEGAL PER SE MAY BE DONATED TO A NON-PROFIT ENTITY OR DESTROYED IN THE DISCRETION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, THAT PERISHABLE ITEMS SEIZED THE SALE OF WHICH IS ILLEGAL ONLY BECAUSE OF THE PLACE, MANNER, OR METHOD BY WHICH IT WAS SEIZED MUST BE SOLD, AND TO PROVIDE FOR RETENTION OF THE PROCEEDS OF PERISHABLE ITEMS SOLD UNTIL FINAL ADJUDICATION OF THE CASE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-70, RELATING TO THE SALE OF CONFISCATED DEVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MUST SELL CONFISCATED DEVISES NOT USED OR DESTROYED BY THE DEPARTMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-300, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL SALTWATER FISHING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR RESIDENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RESIDENT MUST ALSO OBTAIN THE LICENSE FOR THE PRIVILEGE OF SELLING, EXCHANGING, OR BARTERING FISH


Printed Page 4336 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

OR PRODUCTS TAKEN OR LANDED BY THE RESIDENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-310, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL SALTWATER FISHING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR NONRESIDENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A NONRESIDENT MUST ALSO OBTAIN THE LICENSE FOR THE PRIVILEGE OF SELLING, EXCHANGING, OR BARTERING FISH OR PRODUCTS TAKEN OR LANDED BY THE RESIDENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-325, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT LICENSES, FEES, AND THE TAGGING OF EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO PERSON MAY HOLD OR APPLY FOR A SEPARATE LICENSE RESULTING IN AVOIDANCE OF LICENSE FEE DIFFERENTIALS, AND THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY REQUIRE AN OWNER TO AFFIX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS AND TAGS TO COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-335, CHANNEL NET LICENSES AND RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO REGULATE PREFERENCES FOR LICENSES, PROVIDE THAT APPLICANTS MUST BE SIXTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND A RESIDENT OF THIS STATE, AND THAT ONLY ONE CHANNEL NET LICENSE MAY BE ISSUED TO A PERSON; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-350, RELATING TO DISPLAY OF LICENSES, PERMITS, AND VESSEL'S IDENTIFICATION DECALS, SO AS TO REQUIRE DISPLAY OF IDENTIFICATION DECALS ON THE PORT AND STARBOARD SIDES OF A VESSEL; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-360, RELATING TO WHOLESALE SEAFOOD DEALERS AND LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON OR ENTITY WHO BUYS, HANDLES, OR SELLS LIVE OR FRESH SALTWATER FISH OR SALTWATER FISH PRODUCTS LANDED IN THIS STATE, REGARDLESS OF WHERE TAKEN, MUST OBTAIN A WHOLESALE SEAFOOD DEALER LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-370, RELATING TO PURCHASE OR REMOVAL OF SALTWATER FISHERY PRODUCTS NOT HANDLED BY A LICENSED WHOLESALE SEAFOOD DEALER FROM THIS STATE FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO PERSONS RECEIVING LIVE BAIT FROM A LICENSED LIVE BAIT DEALER OR TO PERSONS OR ENTITIES RECEIVING CULTURED PRODUCTS FROM PERSONS THAT SOLELY PRODUCE FISH OR FISHERY PRODUCTS REARED AS OFFSPRING FROM BROOD STOCK IN CAPTIVITY; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-505, RELATING TO NET USE REQUIREMENTS

Printed Page 4337 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

AND RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO HAUL SEINE MAY BE SET WITHIN FIVE HUNDRED YARDS OF ANY PUBLIC FISHING PIER; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-510, RELATING TO CHANNEL NETS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE NUMBER OF BUOYS REQUIRED TO MARK CHANNEL NETS FROM ONE TO THREE AND PROVIDE FOR THEIR LOCATION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN SET NO CHANNEL NET MAY BE UNATTENDED FOR MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-515, RELATING TO CHANNEL NETS AND TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICES MUST CONFORM TO SPECIFICATIONS OF THE NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE FOR SOFT TURTLE EXCLUSION DEVICES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-520, RELATING TO CHANNEL NET VIOLATIONS, FORFEITURE OF LICENSES, AND SEIZURE OF EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SEIZURE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS DO NOT APPLY TO REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO DISTANCES FROM THE CENTERLINE OF MARKED NAVIGATION CHANNELS IF THE DISTANCE IS GREATER THAN THREE HUNDRED FEET; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-545, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL CRAB TRAPS AND ESCAPE VENT REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE NUMBER, SIZE, AND LOCATION OF CIRCULAR ESCAPE VENTS IN COMMERCIAL CRAB TRAPS, AND TO PROVIDE AN EXEMPTION FOR PEELER TRAPS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-550, RELATING TO TRAP BUOY SIZES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MINNOW TRAPS USED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES MUST UTILIZE FLOATS NO SMALLER THAN FIVE INCHES MARKED WITH THE OPERATOR'S NAME AND BAIT DEALER LICENSE NUMBER, AND THAT NO PERSON MAY ACQUIRE MORE THAN ONE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER REQUIRED FOR EACH LICENSED COMMERCIAL SALTWATER FISHERMAN LICENSED TO FISH TRAPS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-715, RELATING TO TRAWLING RESTRICTION AREAS WITHIN THE GENERAL TRAWLING ZONE, SO AS TO STRIKE THE WORD "BECOMING"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-765, RELATING TO USE OF TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICES, SO AS TO STRIKE A PROVISION THAT CERTAIN TRAWL NETS ARE CONTRABAND; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-960, RELATING TO RECREATIONAL SHELLFISH BOTTOM HARVESTS, SO AS TO STRIKE A PROVISION THAT NO PERSON MAY GATHER

Printed Page 4338 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

MORE THAN ONE PERSONAL LIMIT OF SHELLFISH PER DAY ON MORE THAN TWO CALENDAR DAYS PER ANY SEVEN DAY PERIOD AND INSERT A PROVISION THAT NO PERSON MAY HARVEST SHELLFISH RECREATIONALLY ON MORE THAN TWO CALENDAR DAYS PER ANY SEVEN DAY PERIOD; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-965, RELATING TO TAKING SHELLFISH FROM BOTTOMS DESIGNATED FOR COMMERCIAL HARVEST AND INDIVIDUAL HARVESTER PERMITS, SO AS TO LIMIT THE APPLICATION OF THE SECTION TO BOTTOMS OR WATERS UNDER PERMIT FOR SHELLFISH CULTURE OR MARICULTURE, EXCLUDE COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN FROM THE APPLICATION OF THE SECTION, AND TO COMBINE AND EXPAND THE PROVISIONS FOR PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1505, RELATING TO PROMULGATION OF REGULATIONS AS TO ZONES, CATCH LIMITS, AND RELATED MATTERS, SO AS TO STRIKE THE LANGUAGE MAKING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF LAW EFFECTIVE UNTIL THE PROVISIONS ARE PROMULGATED REGULATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1510, RELATING TO SPECIAL PROVISIONS AS TO SHAD AND HERRING, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF SKIM-BOW NETS WITHIN THE SPECIAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO SHAD AND HERRING; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1540, RELATING TO NET PLACEMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO NET MAY BE SET WITHIN SIX HUNDRED FEET OF ANY GILL NET PREVIOUSLY SET, OR DRIFTED WITHIN SIX HUNDRED FEET OF ANOTHER DRIFTING NET; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1560, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR OFFENSES FOR WHICH NO PENALTY HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED, SO AS TO STRIKE CERTAIN OBSOLETE LANGUAGE FROM THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1915, RELATING TO CHARTER FISHING VESSEL AND PUBLIC PIER LOGS, SO AS TO STRIKE "BOAT" AND INSERT "FISHING VESSEL", REVISE CERTAIN PENALTY PROVISIONS TO INCLUDE A TERM OF IMPRISONMENT, AND PROHIBIT ISSUING CHARTER FISHING VESSEL LICENSES UNTIL THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION ARE MET; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2505, RELATING TO POINT SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION, SO AS TO DELETE A DUPLICATE PROVISION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2510, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF SALTWATER PRIVILEGES FOR

Printed Page 4339 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

ACCUMULATION OF POINTS, SO AS TO CONFORM LANGUAGE BY STRIKING "BOAT" AND INSERTING "FISHING VESSEL"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2515, RELATING TO NOTICE AND REVIEW OF SUSPENSION OF SALTWATER PRIVILEGES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT REVIEW OF SUSPENSION OF SALTWATER PRIVILEGES MUST BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2520, RELATING TO APPEALS, SO AS TO CHANGE A REFERENCE TO THE APPEAL AUTHORITY FROM ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE CODE TO ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE CODE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2725, RELATING TO SHARK CATCH LIMITS, SO AS TO DELETE AN OBSOLETE REFERENCE TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SHARKS OF THE ATLANTIC OCEAN; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2730, RELATING TO FEDERAL FISHING REGULATIONS BEING THE LAW OF THE STATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE SALES RESTRICTIONS WITHIN THE SECTION AND PROVIDE THAT THE FEDERAL REGULATIONS APPLY STATEWIDE INCLUDING IN STATE WATERS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-21-175, RELATING TO WATERCRAFT BEING REQUIRED TO HEAVE TO AND PERMIT BOARDING BY LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE PASSENGERS AMONG THOSE WHO MAY BE GUILTY OF VIOLATING THE SECTION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE OPERATOR, CREW, AND PASSENGERS OF ANY WATERCRAFT OPERATING IN STATE WATERS ARE REQUIRED TO COOPERATE WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS OR U. S. COAST GUARD PERSONNEL; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 50-5-120 AND 50-5-2735 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Rep. WITHERSPOON moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs, which was agreed to.

S. 830--POINT OF ORDER

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 830 (Word version) -- Senators Giese, Hayes, Courson and Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY


Printed Page 4340 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

ADDING SECTION 8-11-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT STATE AND LOCAL OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES ARE ENTITLED TO CERTAIN PAID LEAVES OF ABSENCE IN ORDER TO BE AN ORGAN DONOR.

POINT OF ORDER

Rep. J. BROWN made the Point of Order that the Senate Amendments were improperly before the House for consideration since its number and title have not been printed in the House Calendar at least one statewide legislative day prior to second reading.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.

S. 1208--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

S. 1208 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A BILL TO ENACT "STEPHANIE'S LAW"; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-510, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED OR PERMITTED TO REPORT CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO DETERMINE WHETHER PREVIOUS REPORTS HAVE BEEN MADE REGARDING A CHILD OR SUBJECT OF A REPORT AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO MAINTAIN A RECORD OF INFORMATION RECEIVED THAT IS NOT INVESTIGATED; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-650, RELATING TO DUTIES OF LOCAL CHILD PROTECTIVE AGENCIES, SO AS TO RE-CATEGORIZE UNFOUNDED REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-655, RELATING TO THE CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES APPEALS PROCESS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT CERTAIN RECORDS BE PURGED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-680, RELATING TO THE CENTRAL REGISTRY OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CENTRAL REGISTRY OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT MUST NOT CONTAIN INFORMATION FROM REPORTS CLASSIFIED AS UNFOUNDED.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.


Printed Page 4341 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

H. 4876--NONCONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 4876 (Word version) -- Reps. Koon, Frye, Rhoad and Ott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-140, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO IT BEING UNLAWFUL TO CARRY WEAPONS WHILE HUNTING RACCOONS, OPOSSUMS, OR FOX DURING THE PERIOD IT IS LAWFUL TO HUNT THEM WITHOUT WEAPONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS LAWFUL TO RUN RACCOONS WITH DOGS AT ANY TIME DURING THE YEAR.

Rep. WITHERSPOON explained the Senate Amendments.

The House refused to agree to the Senate amendments and a message was ordered sent accordingly.

S. 1308--ADOPTED AND SENT TO SENATE

The following Concurrent Resolution was taken up:

S. 1308 (Word version) -- Senator Peeler: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME INTERSTATE 85 IN CHEROKEE COUNTY AS THE "VETERANS MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" IN HONOR AND MEMORY OF THE VETERANS OF CHEROKEE COUNTY FOR THEIR FAITHFUL SERVICE TO THIS STATE AND OUR NATION AND REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS AND MARKERS REFLECTING THIS DESIGNATION.

Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:

That the members of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina request the Department of Transportation to name Interstate 85 in Cherokee County as the "Veterans Memorial Highway" in honor and memory of the veterans of Cherokee County for their faithful service to this State and our nation and request the department erect appropriate signs and markers reflecting this designation.


Printed Page 4342 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the South Carolina Department of Transportation.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted and sent to the Senate.

H. 5381--AMENDED, ADOPTED AND SENT TO SENATE

The following Concurrent Resolution was taken up:

H. 5381 (Word version) -- Rep. Talley: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO CONDUCT A STUDY OF THE TRAFFIC PATTERNS OF TANKER TRUCKS THAT LEAVE THE OIL RESERVES LOCATED ALONG SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 295 IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY AND TRAVEL TO INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS 26 AND 85 TO DETERMINE THE MOST FEASIBLE AND SAFEST ROUTE FOR THESE TRUCKS TO TRAVEL AND TO REPORT ITS FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY BY JANUARY 8, 2003.

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, request the Department of Transportation to conduct a study of the traffic patterns of tanker trucks that leave the oil reserves located along South Carolina Highway 295 in Spartanburg County and travel to Interstate Highways 26 and 85 to determine the most feasible route, with safety for area residents as the foremost concern, for these trucks to travel and report its findings and conclusions to the President Pro Tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives by January 8, 2003. The study must include a public meeting held in Spartanburg County.

Be it further resolved that the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, request the Department of Transportation to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of a southeastern connector between Interstate Highway 26 and Interstate Highway 85 and the potential benefit to Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties of an I26-I85 southeastern connector, and to report the findings and conclusions to the President Pro Tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives by January 8, 2003.


Printed Page 4343 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Director of the Department of Transportation.

Rep. TALLEY proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\GGS\AMEND\22629CM02), which was adopted:
Amend the concurrent resolution, as and if amended, by striking /input from interested parties / on line 34, and by striking line 35 and inserting /a public meeting held in Spartanburg /.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. TALLEY explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

Rep. W. D. SMITH proposed the following Amendment No. 2 (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\AMEND\9244HTC02), which was adopted:
Amend the concurrent resolution, as and if amended, by inserting after line 37:
/ Be it further resolved that the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, request the Department of Transportation to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of a southeastern connector between Interstate Highway 26 and Interstate Highway 85 and the potential benefit to Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties of an I26-I85 southeastern connector, and to report the findings and conclusions to the President Pro Tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives by January 8, 2003. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. TALLEY explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The Concurrent Resolution, as amended, was adopted and ordered sent to the Senate.

RECURRENCE TO THE MORNING HOUR

Rep. MCLEOD moved that the House recur to the Morning Hour, which was agreed to.


Printed Page 4344 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEE

Rep. FLEMING, from the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions, submitted a favorable report on:

H. 5406 (Word version) -- Reps. Moody-Lawrence, Delleney, Kirsh, McCraw, Meacham-Richardson and Simrill: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME THE INTERCHANGE OF STATE HIGHWAY 901 AND INTERSTATE 77 AT EXIT 73 IN YORK COUNTY IN HONOR OF SAMUEL R. FOSTER, FORMER MEMBER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Rep. FLEMING, from the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions, submitted a favorable report on:

S. 1318 (Word version) -- Senator J. V. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES TO TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION BY ADOPTING THE "ACCESS TO CANCER THERAPIES ACT OF 2001" (H.R. 1624; S.913) WHICH WILL PROVIDE MEDICARE COVERAGE FOR ALL ORAL ANTI-CANCER DRUGS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5410 (Word version) -- Reps. McLeod, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith,


Printed Page 4345 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND FORMER JUDGE MARGIE FULLER CANNON, A PIONEER WOMAN JUDGE IN SOUTH CAROLINA'S JUDICIARY WHO SERVED WITH GREAT DISTINCTION FOR A QUARTER OF A CENTURY, TO CONGRATULATE HER ON HER OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE IN HER COMMUNITY AS A CHARLESTON COUNTY MAGISTRATE, AND TO EXTEND EVERY GOOD WISH TO HER AND HER FAMILY DURING HER RETIREMENT AND IN ALL OF HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

The Resolution was adopted.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5411 (Word version) -- Reps. Owens, Campsen, Wilder, Huggins, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE FURMAN UNIVERSITY, ONE OF THIS NATION'S MOST OUTSTANDING


Printed Page 4346 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

UNIVERSITIES, ON THE OCCASION OF ITS ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

INTRODUCTION OF BILL

The following Bill was introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committee:

H. 5412 (Word version) -- Rep. McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-18-500, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AN ACADEMIC PLAN FOR A STUDENT LACKING SKILLS TO PERFORM AT CURRENT GRADE LEVEL, SO AS TO DESIGNATE THAT A STUDENT REQUIRED TO ATTEND A COMPREHENSIVE REMEDIATION PROGRAM IS "AT RISK OF BEING RETAINED" INSTEAD OF "ON ACADEMIC PROBATION", TO PROVIDE FOR APPEAL OF A REQUIREMENT TO ATTEND A COMPREHENSIVE REMEDIATION PROGRAM LIKE APPEALS OF SUMMER SCHOOL OR RETENTION REQUIREMENTS, TO PROVIDE FOR REVIEW OF A STUDENT'S PROGRESS AND A RETENTION DECISION BASED ON CERTAIN WEIGHTED FACTORS INCLUDING A SIXTY PERCENT CONSIDERATION OF CLASSROOM PERFORMANCE AND A FIFTEEN PERCENT CONSIDERATION OF STATEWIDE STANDARDS-BASED ASSESSMENT SCORES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL REVIEWS OF PROGRESS AND FOR ASSISTANCE.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5413 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Weeks, J. Young, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon,


Printed Page 4347 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon and A. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SORROW AT THE DEATH OF DR. WILSON GREENE OF SUMTER COUNTY, AND EXTENDING SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

R. 388, H. 4879--VETO 1 -- SUSTAINED

The Veto on the following Act was taken up:

(R388) H. 4879 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO ENACT THE BUDGET PROVISO CODIFICATION ACT.

VETO 1-- SUSTAINED

Veto #1. Section 7, page 64, "Continuum of Care transferred."

Rep. HARRELL spoke against the Veto.
Rep. J. E. SMITH spoke in favor of the Veto.
Rep. JENNINGS spoke in favor of the Veto.

The question was put, shall the Item become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 64; Nays 44

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Altman                 Barfield               Barrett
Bingham                Brown, J.              Campsen
Carnell                Cato                   Chellis
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Delleney               Easterday              Edge

Printed Page 4348 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Fleming                Frye                   Gilham
Hamilton               Harrell                Harrison
Haskins                Hinson                 Howard
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Koon                   Law                    Leach
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Loftis
Lucas                  Martin                 Meacham-Richardson
Merrill                Owens                  Perry
Quinn                  Rice                   Riser
Sandifer               Scarborough            Smith, D.C.
Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.R.            Smith, W.D.
Stille                 Stuart                 Talley
Taylor                 Thompson               Townsend
Tripp                  Trotter                Vaughn
Walker                 Webb                   White
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Young, A.
Young, J.

Total--64

Those who voted in the negative are:

Bales                  Battle                 Bowers
Breeland               Brown, R.              Clyburn
Coates                 Coleman                Davenport
Emory                  Freeman                Gourdine
Govan                  Hayes                  Hines, J.
Hosey                  Jennings               Kennedy
Kirsh                  Lee                    Lloyd
Lourie                 Mack                   McCraw
McGee                  McLeod                 Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Neilson                Ott                    Parks
Rhoad                  Rivers                 Rutherford
Scott                  Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, J.E.            Snow                   Weeks
Whipper                Wilder

Total--44

So, the Veto of the Governor was sustained and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.


Printed Page 4349 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

RECURRENCE TO THE MORNING HOUR

Rep. HARRELL moved that the House recur to the Morning Hour, which was agreed to.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 4771:

H. 4771 (Word version) -- Reps. Keegan, Knotts, Hosey, Whipper, Clyburn, Frye, Gourdine, J. Hines, Kelley, Leach, Littlejohn and Whatley: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED CONCERNING THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF ARCHITECTS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "EMERITUS ARCHITECT"; TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-230, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR LICENSURE AS AN ARCHITECT, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CANADIAN ARCHITECTURAL CERTIFICATION BOARD AS AN ACCREDITING BODY OF SCHOOLS OR PROGRAMS FOR ARCHITECTS; TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-250, RELATING TO LICENSE RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXEMPT EMERITUS ARCHITECTS FROM CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS UNLESS RETURNING TO ACTIVE PRACTICE; TO ADD SECTION 40-3-255 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL EXAMINERS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION AND RESEARCH FUND, TO ALLOCATE REVENUE FROM RENEWAL FEES TO THE FUND, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE FUND; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-290, RELATING TO THOSE PERSONS AND ACTIVITIES EXEMPT FROM LICENSURE AND REGULATION AS AN ARCHITECT, SO AS TO REVISE A BUILDING CODE REFERENCE.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.


Printed Page 4350 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on H. 4878, R. 373, Veto #3, by a vote of 31 to 12.

Veto #3. House of Representatives, page 228, Section 54B, Item "Other Operating Expenses General Funds $2,556,675."

(R373) H. 4878 -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING, JULY 1, 2002; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THE FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on H. 4878, R. 373, Veto #5, by a vote of 30 to 12.

Veto #5. General & Temporary, page 434, Section 72.98, Item "Due to unanticipated costs associated with the legal defense of reapportionment legislation and other civil litigation and the resulting impact on the budgets of the House and the Senate, the Budget and Control Board is directed to transfer the amount of $1.3 million from board reserve accounts to A01 Senate reserve account and the amount of $1.3 million from board reserve accounts to A05 House revenue


Printed Page 4351 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

reserve account. The Comptroller General shall establish expenditure authorization for the amount transferred."

(R373) H. 4878 -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING, JULY 1, 2002; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THE FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5414 (Word version) -- Reps. Harvin and Kelley: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF DR. THOMAS H. BYRD III OF CARY, NORTH CAROLINA, WHO DIED ON MONDAY, MAY 27, 2002.

The Resolution was adopted.

INTRODUCTION OF BILL

The following Bill was introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committee:

H. 5415 (Word version) -- Rep. McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-18-500, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AN ACADEMIC PLAN FOR A STUDENT LACKING SKILLS TO PERFORM AT CURRENT GRADE LEVEL, SO AS TO DESIGNATE THAT A STUDENT REQUIRED TO ATTEND A COMPREHENSIVE REMEDIATION PROGRAM IS "AT RISK OF BEING RETAINED" INSTEAD OF "ON ACADEMIC PROBATION", TO PROVIDE FOR APPEAL OF A REQUIREMENT TO ATTEND A COMPREHENSIVE REMEDIATION PROGRAM LIKE APPEALS OF SUMMER SCHOOL OR RETENTION


Printed Page 4352 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

REQUIREMENTS, TO PROVIDE FOR REVIEW OF A STUDENT'S PROGRESS AND A RETENTION DECISION BASED ON CERTAIN WEIGHTED FACTORS INCLUDING A FORTY PERCENT CONSIDERATION OF CLASSROOM PERFORMANCE AND A THIRTY PERCENT CONSIDERATION OF STATEWIDE STANDARDS-BASED ASSESSMENT SCORES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL REVIEWS OF PROGRESS AND FOR ASSISTANCE.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works

R. 373, H. 4878-- VETO 4 -- MOTION TO RECONSIDER TABLED

The Veto on the following Act was taken up:

(R373) H. 4878 -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING, JULY 1, 2002; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THE FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

VETO 4-- MOTION TO RECONSIDER TABLED

Veto #4. The Senate, page 227, Section 54A, Item "Other Operating Expenses General Funds $1,920,848."

The motion of Rep. HARRELL to reconsider the vote whereby Veto 4 was overridden was taken up.

Rep. HARRELL moved to table the motion to reconsider, which was agreed to.

H. 3756--DEBATE ADJOURNED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3756 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins and Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO FAMILY COURT JURISDICTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FAMILY COURT HAS EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION TO HEAR AND DETERMINE


Printed Page 4353 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

MATTERS RELATING TO THE VALIDITY OF PREMARITAL AGREEMENTS AND THE EFFECT OF THESE AGREEMENTS ON ISSUES OTHERWISE WITHIN FAMILY COURT JURISDICTION.

Rep. HARRISON moved to adjourn debate on the Senate Amendments, which was agreed to.

H. 5291--DEBATE ADJOURNED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 5291 (Word version) -- Reps. Bingham, Huggins and Riser: A BILL TO DIRECT THE LEXINGTON COUNTY OFFICIAL CHARGED WITH THE RESPONSIBILITY OF COLLECTING DELINQUENT TAXES, IN CONNECTION WITH THE REQUIREMENT FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES ON A WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTOR BE CURRENT BEFORE THE TITLE TO THESE ITEMS MAY BE TRANSFERRED, THAT THIS PROHIBITION ON THE TRANSFER OF TITLE APPLIES ONLY FOR PROPERTY TAXES DUE FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEGINNING AFTER 1999, THAT USED WATERCRAFT AND USED OUTBOARD MOTORS OBTAINED FROM A LICENSED DEALER ON OR AFTER OCTOBER 3, 2000, ARE FREE OF THE LIEN FOR THE PAYMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEFORE 2000, AND THAT NO REFUNDS OF PROPERTY TAXES ON WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTORS ARE PAYABLE FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEFORE.

Rep. BINGHAM moved to adjourn debate upon the Senate Amendments until Thursday, June 6, which was agreed to.

H. 3144--SENATE AMENDMENTS AMENDED AND RETURNED TO THE SENATE

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3144 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, W. D. Smith, Vaughn, Delleney, Walker, Merrill, Cotty, Thompson, Edge, Simrill and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LOBBYIST'S


Printed Page 4354 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

REPORTING OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-35, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOBBYISTS' PRINCIPALS' REPORTING OF LOBBYING EXPENDITURES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE AGENCY OR DEPARTMENT REPORT OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING THE REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-90, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ACTS PROHIBITED OF LOBBYISTS' PRINCIPALS, ACTS PROHIBITED OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES, EXCEPTIONS, AND DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXCLUDE CABINET OFFICERS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-100, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN THE ETHICS, GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CAMPAIGN REFORM ACT, SO AS TO DELETE WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTION", A BALLOT MEASURE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-320, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A NOTICE OF WAIVER BE FORWARDED TO THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION AFTER A COMPLAINT HAS BEEN DISMISSED WHEN IT DOES NOT ALLEGE FACTS SUFFICIENT TO CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-530, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ETHICS COMMITTEES, SO AS TO INCLUDE LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS COMMITTEES WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF A COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1300, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROVISIONS RELATING TO CAMPAIGN PRACTICES, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "COMMITTEE" TO INCLUDE AN INDIVIDUAL WHO, TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF AN ELECTIVE OFFICE, MAKES INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES AGGREGATING FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS OR MORE DURING AN ELECTION CYCLE, TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTION" TO DELETE BALLOT MEASURE WITHIN ITS DEFINITION, TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURE" TO INCLUDE AN EXPENDITURE MADE UPON CONSULTATION WITH A COMMITTEE OR AGENT OF A COMMITTEE OR A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE OR AN

Printed Page 4355 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

AGENT OF A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE, BY DEFINING "BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE" AND "INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF AN ELECTIVE OFFICE"; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1302, RELATING TO MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS OF CONTRIBUTIONS BY A CANDIDATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1304, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT COMMITTEES RECEIVING AND SPENDING FUNDS MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WHICH RECEIVES OR EXPENDS MORE THAN ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS IN THE AGGREGATE DURING AN ELECTION CYCLE TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF A BALLOT MEASURE TO FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION AND DELETE THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE STATEMENT TO BE FILED BY A COMMITTEE WHICH RECEIVES OR EXPENDS MORE THAN FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1306, RELATING TO THE CONTENTS OF A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WHERE APPLICABLE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1308, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FILING OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS BY CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE MAKING OF INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES WITHIN THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1309, SO AS TO REQUIRE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE REQUIRED TO FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION MUST FILE AN INITIAL CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORT WHEN IT RECEIVES OR EXPENDS CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS TOTALING CERTAIN SPECIFIED AMOUNTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1310, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE RECIPIENTS OF CERTAIN CAMPAIGN REPORTS AND COPIES OF THEM AND THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION REVIEW, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT TO SEND CAMPAIGN REPORTS TO THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1316, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED FROM POLITICAL PARTIES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A POLITICAL PARTY FROM RECEIVING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH ITS PARTY COMMITTEES OR LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS COMMITTEES WHICH TOTAL CERTAIN AGGREGATE AMOUNTS AND PROVIDE THAT A

Printed Page 4356 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

CONTRIBUTION GIVEN IN VIOLATION OF SUBSECTION (A) OF THIS SECTION MAY NOT BE KEPT BY THE RECIPIENT, BUT WITHIN TEN DAYS REMIT IT TO THE CHILDREN'S TRUST FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1324, RELATING TO ANONYMOUS CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THESE CONTRIBUTIONS TO A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1332, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONTRIBUTIONS AND EXPENDITURES, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE AS WELL AS A COMMITTEE AND DELETE FROM THE PROHIBITION AN ORGANIZATION OR COMMITTEE OF AN ORGANIZATION TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ORGANIZATION COMMITTEE FROM A PERSON OTHER THAN ITS MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1333 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS AND COMMITTEES FORMED BY NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1354, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE IDENTIFICATION OF A PERSON INDEPENDENTLY PAYING FOR ELECTION-RELATED COMMUNICATION, SO AS TO DELETE A BALLOT MEASURE FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1366, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AS A LOCATION OF THESE REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1368, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF CAMPAIGN FILING REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEES WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1370, RELATING TO THE USE OF UNEXPENDED CONTRIBUTIONS BY A CANDIDATE AFTER AN ELECTION, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WITHIN THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1372, RELATING TO TECHNICAL VIOLATIONS OF RULES ON CAMPAIGN REPORTS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION FOR THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AS THE AGENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR DETERMINING ERRORS OR OMISSIONS ON CAMPAIGN REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1510, RELATING TO THE PENALTY FOR LATE FILING OF OR FAILURE TO FILE A REPORT OR STATEMENT, SO AS TO

Printed Page 4357 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

DELETE THE FIVE HUNDRED DOLLAR MAXIMUM FINE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1520, RELATING TO A VIOLATION OF CHAPTER 13 OF TITLE 8, SO AS TO MAKE CERTAIN VIOLATIONS OF ARTICLE 13 OF CHAPTER 8 A MISDEMEANOR AND PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

Rep. HARRISON proposed the following Amendment No. 3A (Doc Name COUNCIL\PT\AMEND\21460SD02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-30(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Each lobbyist, no later than April tenth and October tenth of each year, must file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that lobbyist's lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods shall be are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and shall be are from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-20(C) must be reported no later than December thirty-first of that January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   2.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-35(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Except as otherwise provided by Section 2-17-90(E), each lobbyist's principal, no later than April tenth and October tenth of each year, must file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that lobbyist's principal's expenditures attributable to lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods shall be are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and shall be are from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-25(C) must be reported no later than December thirty-first of that January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   3.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-40(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:


Printed Page 4358 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"Each state agency or department shall must, no later than April first tenth and October first tenth of each year, file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that agency's lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-25(C) must be reported no later than January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   4.   Section 2-17-90(A)(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(1)   as to members of the General Assembly, a function to which a member of the General Assembly is invited if the entire membership of the House, the Senate, or the General Assembly is invited, or one of the committees, subcommittees, joint committees, legislative caucuses, or county legislative delegations of the General Assembly of which the legislator is a member is invited. However, the Speaker of the House and Speaker Pro Tempore of the House may be included in an invitation to one of the above groups. In addition, invitations may be extended at national and regional conventions and conferences to all members in attendance;"
SECTION   5.   Section 2-17-90(A) of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"(7)   as to cabinet officers, a function to which all cabinet officers are invited."
SECTION   6.   Section 2-17-90(B) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(B)   No lobbyist's principal or person acting on behalf of a lobbyist's principal may provide to a public official or a public employee pursuant to subsections (A)(1), (A)(2), (A)(3), (A)(4), or (A)(5), or (A)(7) the value of lodging, transportation, entertainment, food, meals, or beverages exceeding twenty-five dollars in a day and two hundred dollars in a calendar year per public official or public employee."
SECTION   7.   Section 8-13-100(12) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(12)   'Election' means:

(a)   a general, special, primary, or runoff election;


Printed Page 4359 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(b)   a convention or caucus of a political party held to nominate a candidate; or

(c)   the election of delegates to a constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of this State; or

(d)   a ballot measure."
SECTION   8.   Section 8-13-320(10)(b) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(b)   If the commission or its executive director determines that the complaint does not allege facts sufficient to constitute a violation, the commission shall must dismiss the complaint and notify the complainant and respondent, and the entire matter must be stricken from public record unless the respondent, by written authorization to the State Ethics Commission, waives the confidentiality of the existence of the complaint and authorizes the release of information about the disposition of the complaint."
SECTION   9.   Section 8-13-530(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(1)   upon the filing of a complaint, investigate possible violations of breach of a privilege governing a member of the appropriate house, the alleged breach of a rule governing a member of, legislative caucus committees for, or candidate for the appropriate house, misconduct of a member of, legislative caucus committees for, or candidate for the appropriate house, or a violation of this chapter or Chapter 17 of Title 2;"
SECTION   10.   Section 8-13-1300(6) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(6)   'Committee' means an association, a club, an organization, or a group of persons which, to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure, receives contributions or makes expenditures in excess of five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle. It also means an individual a person who, to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure, makes:

(a)   contributions aggregating at least fifty thousand dollars during an election cycle to, or at the request of, a candidate or a committee, or a combination of them.; or

(b)   independent expenditures aggregating five hundred dollars or more during an election cycle for the election or defeat of a candidate.

'Committee' includes a party committee, a legislative caucus committee, a noncandidate committee, or a committee that is not a


Printed Page 4360 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

campaign committee for a candidate but that is organized for the purpose of influencing an election."
SECTION   11.   Section 8-13-1300(9) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(9)   'Election' means:

(a)   a general, special, primary, or runoff election;

(b)   a convention or caucus of a political party held to nominate a candidate; or

(c)   the election of delegates to a constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of this State; or

(d)   a ballot measure."
SECTION   12.   Section 8-13-1300(17) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(17)   'Independent expenditure' means:

(a)   an expenditure made by a person to advocate the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate or ballot measure; and

(b)   when taken as a whole and in context, the expenditure made by a person expressly to urge a particular result in an election to influence the outcome of an elective office or ballot measure but which is not:

(i)     made to;

(ii)   controlled by;

(iii)   coordinated with;

(iv)   requested by; or

(v)   made upon consultation with a candidate or an agent of a candidate; or a committee or agent of a committee; or a ballot measure committee or an agent of a ballot measure committee.

Expenditures by party committees or expenditures by legislative caucus committees based upon party affiliation are considered to be controlled by, coordinated with, requested by, or made upon consultation with a candidate or an agent of a candidate."
SECTION   13.   Section 8-13-1300 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding appropriately numbered items at the end to read:

"( )   'Ballot measure committee' means:

(a)   an association, club, an organization, or a group of persons which, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, receives contributions or makes expenditures in excess of two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle;

(b)   a person, other than an individual, who, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, makes contributions aggregating at least


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fifty thousand dollars during an election cycle to, or at the request of, a ballot measure committee; or

(c)   a person, other than an individual, who, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, makes independent expenditures aggregating two thousand five hundred dollars or more during an election cycle.

( )   'Influence the outcome of an elective office' means:

(a)   expressly advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate using words including or substantially similar to 'vote for', 'elect', 'cast your ballot for', 'Smith for Governor', 'vote against', 'defeat', or 'reject'; or

(b)   communicating campaign slogans or individual words that, taken in context, have no other reasonable meaning other than to urge the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate including or substantially similar to slogans or words such as 'Smith's the One', 'Jones 2000', 'Smith/Jones', 'Jones!', or 'Smith-A man for the People!'

( )   'Coordinated with' means:

Discussion or negotiation between a candidate or a candidate's agent and: (a) a person; (b) an agent of a person; (c) any other agent of a candidate; or (d) any combination of these concerning, but not limited to, a political communication's:

(1)   contents, including the specific wording of print, broadcast, or telephone communications; appearance of print or broadcast communications; the message or theme of print or broadcast communications;

(2)   timing, including the proximity to general or primary elections, proximity to other political communications, and proximity to other campaign events;

(3)   location, including the proximity to other political communications, or geographical targeting, or both;

(4)   mode, including the medium (phone, broadcast, print, etc.) of the communication;

(5)   intended audience, including the demographic or political targeting, or geographical targeting; and

(6)   volume, including the amount, frequency, or size of the political communication."
SECTION   14.   Section 8-13-1302 of the 1976 Code, added by Act 248 of 1991, is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1302.   A candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee shall must maintain and preserve an account of:


Printed Page 4362 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(1)   the total of contributions accepted by the candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee;

(2)   the name and address of each person making a contribution and the date of receipt of each contribution;

(3)   the total of expenditures made by or on behalf of the candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee;

(4)   the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure; and

(5)   all receipted bills, canceled checks, or other proof of payment for each expenditure.

(B)   The candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee must maintain and preserve all receipted bills and accounts required by this article for four years."
SECTION   15.   Section 8-13-1304 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1304.   (A)   A committee, except an out-of-state committee, which receives or expends more than five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of an elective office or ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after receiving the contribution or making the expenditure. An out-of-state committee which expends more than five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after making the expenditure.

(B)   A ballot measure committee, except an out-of-state committee, which receives or expends more than two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after receiving the contribution or making the expenditure. An out-of-state ballot measure committee which expends more than two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after making the expenditure."
SECTION   16.   Section 8-13-1306 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:


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"Section 8-13-1306.   (A)   The statement of organization of a committee or a ballot measure committee must include:

(1)   the full name of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(2)   the complete address and telephone number of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(3)   the date the committee or ballot measure committee was organized;

(4)   a summary of the purpose of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(5)   the name and address of a corporation or an organization that sponsors the committee or ballot measure committee or is affiliated with the committee or ballot measure committee. If the committee or ballot measure committee is not sponsored by or affiliated with a corporation or an organization, the committee or ballot measure committee must specify the trade, profession, or primary interest of contributors to the committee or ballot measure committee;

(6)   the full name, address, telephone number, occupation, and principal place of business of the chairman and treasurer of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(7)   the full name, address, telephone number, occupation, and principal place of business of the custodian of the books and accounts, if other than the custodian is not one of the designated officers;

(8)   the full name and address of the depository in which the committee or ballot measure committee maintains its campaign account and the number of the account; and

(9)   a certification of the statement by the chairman and the treasurer.

(B)   The name of the committee or ballot measure committee designated on the statement of organization must incorporate the full name of the sponsoring entity, if any. An acronym or abbreviation may be used in other communications if the acronym or abbreviation commonly is known or clearly recognized by the general public.

(C)   The chairman must notify the State Ethics Commission in writing of a change in information previously reported in a statement of organization no later than ten business days after the change."
SECTION   17.   Section 8-13-1308 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding a new subsection to read:

"(G)   Notwithstanding any other reporting requirements in this chapter, a political party, legislative caucus committee, and a party committee must file a certified campaign report upon the receipt of


Printed Page 4364 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

anything of value which total in the aggregate five hundred dollars or more. For purposes of this section, 'anything of value' includes contributions received which may be used for the payment of operation expenses of a political party, legislative caucus committee, or a party committee. A political party must also comply with the reporting requirements of subsections (B), (C), and (F) of Section 8-13-1308 in the same manner as a candidate or committee."
SECTION   18.   Section 8-13-1308(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1308.   (A)   Upon the receipt or expenditure of campaign contributions or the making of independent expenditures totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, of five hundred dollars or more, a candidate or committee required to file a statement of organization pursuant to Section 8-13-1304(A) must file an initial certified campaign report within ten days of these initial receipts or expenditures. However, a candidate or a committee that who does not receive or expend campaign contributions totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, of five hundred dollars or more must file an initial certified campaign report fifteen days before an election."
SECTION   19.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1309.   (A)   Upon the receipt or expenditure of campaign contributions or the making of independent expenditures totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, two thousand five hundred dollars or more, a ballot measure committee required to file a statement of organization pursuant to Section 8-13-1304(B) must file an initial certified campaign report within ten days of these initial receipts or expenditures.

(B)   Following the filing of an initial certified campaign report, additional certified campaign reports must be filed within ten days following the end of each calendar quarter in which contributions are received or expenditures are made, whether before or after a ballot measure election until the campaign account undergoes final disbursement pursuant to the provisions of Section 8-13-1370(C).

(C)   At least fifteen days before a ballot measure election, a certified campaign report must be filed showing contributions of more than one hundred dollars and expenditures to or by the ballot measure committee for the period ending twenty days before the ballot measure election. The ballot measure committee must maintain a current list during the period before the ballot measure election commencing at the beginning of the calendar quarter of the election of all contributions of


Printed Page 4365 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

more than one hundred dollars. The list must be open to public inspection upon request.

(D)   Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (B) and (C), if a pre-election campaign report provided for in subsection (C) is required to be filed within thirty days of the end of the prior quarter, a ballot measure committee must combine the quarterly report provided for in subsection (B) and the pre-election report and file the combined report subject to the provisions of subsection (C) no later than fifteen days before the ballot measure election.

(E)   Certified campaign reports detailing campaign contributions and expenditures must contain:

(1)   the total of contributions accepted by the ballot measure committee;

(2)   the name and address of each person making a contribution of more than one hundred dollars and the date of receipt of each contribution;

(3)   the total expenditures made by or on behalf of the ballot measure committee; and

(4)   the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made from campaign funds, including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure."
SECTION   20.   Section 8-13-1310 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1310.   (A)   All persons required to file certified campaign reports under this article must file those reports with the appropriate supervisory office.

(B)   The Senate Ethics Committee and the House of Representatives Ethics Committee must forward a copy of each statement filed with it to the State Ethics Commission within five business days of receipt.

(C)   Within five days of receipt, a copy of all campaign reports received by the State Ethics Commission must be forwarded to the State Election Commission and the clerk of court in the county of residence of the person required to file.

(D)   As provided in Section 8-13-1372, the State Election Ethics Commission must review all statements forwarded to it by the State Ethics Commission for inadvertent and unintentional errors or omissions."
SECTION   21.   Section 8-13-1316 of the 1976 Code, added by Act 248 of 1991, is amended to read:


Printed Page 4366 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"Section 8-13-1316.   (A)   Within an election cycle, a candidate may not accept or receive contributions from a political party through its party committees or legislative caucus committees and a political party through its party committees or legislative caucus committees may not give to a candidate contributions which total in the aggregate more than:

(1)   fifty thousand dollars in the case of a candidate for statewide office; or

(2)   five thousand dollars in the case of a candidate for any other office.

(B)   Party expenditures for partisan multi-candidate promotions for four or more candidates, including candidates for the United States Senate or the United States House of Representatives, where each candidate receives substantially equal treatment, both in terms of time or length discussed and prominence in presentation, shall not be included in the contribution limits under subsection (A). However, multi-candidate promotional expenditures are limited to:

(1)   the operation of telephone banks;

(2)   the preparation, mailing, and distribution of campaign materials including newspaper, television, and radio advertisements; or

(3)   voter registration and ballot information.

(C)   The recipient of a contribution given in violation of subsection (A) may not keep the contribution, but within ten days must remit the contribution to the Children's Trust Fund."
SECTION   22.   Section 8-13-1324 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1324.   (A)   A person may not make an anonymous contribution to a candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee, and a candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee may not accept an anonymous contribution from an individual except at a ticketed event where food or beverages are served or where political merchandise is distributed and where the price of the ticket is twenty-five dollars or less and goes toward defraying the cost of food, beverages, or political merchandise in whole or in part.

(B)   The recipient of an anonymous contribution given in violation of subsection (A) or the recipient of any other anonymous contribution may not keep the contribution but within seven days must remit the contribution to the Children's Trust Fund."
SECTION   23.   Section 8-13-1332 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1332.   It is unlawful for:


Printed Page 4367 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(1)   a committee or ballot measure committee to make a contribution or expenditure by using:

(a)   anything of value secured by physical force, job discrimination, financial reprisals, or threat of the same;

(b)   dues, fees, or other monies required as a condition of membership in a labor organization, or as a condition of employment; or

(c)   monies obtained by the committee or the ballot measure committee in a commercial transaction;

(2)   a person to solicit an employee for a contribution and fail to inform the employee of the political purposes of the committee or ballot measure committee and of the employee's right to refuse to contribute without any advantage or promise of an advantage conditioned upon making the contribution or reprisal or threat of reprisal related to the failure to make the contribution; and

(3)   a corporation or committee of a corporation to solicit contributions to the corporation or committee from a person other than its shareholders, directors, executive or administrative personnel, and their families;, except as provided in Section 8-13-1333

(4)   an organization or committee of an organization to solicit contributions to the organization or committee from a person other than its members and their families."
SECTION   24.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1333.   (A)   Not-for-profit corporations and committees formed by not-for-profit corporations may solicit contributions from the general public;

(B)   An organization or a committee of an organization may solicit contributions from the general public."
SECTION   25.   Section 8-13-1348(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1348.   (A)   No candidate, committee, public official, or political party, or ballot measure committee may use campaign funds to defray personal expenses which are unrelated to the campaign or the office if the candidate is an officeholder; nor may these funds be converted to personal use. The prohibition of this subsection does not extend to the incidental personal use of campaign materials or equipment nor to an expenditure used to defray any ordinary expenses incurred in connection with an individual's duties as a holder of elective office."
SECTION   26.   Section 8-13-1354 of the 1976 Code, as amended by Act 6 of 1995 is further amended to read:


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"Section 8-13-1354.   A candidate, committee, or other person which makes an expenditure in the distribution, posting, or broadcasting of a communication to voters supporting or opposing a public official, or a candidate, or a ballot measure must place his name and address on the printed matter or have his name spoken clearly on a broadcast so as to identify accurately the person and his address. Campaign buttons, balloons, yard signs, or similar items are exempt from this requirement."
SECTION   27.   Section 8-13-1366 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1366.   Certified campaign reports must be made available for public inspection at the office of the State Ethics Commission, the State Election Commission, the Senate Ethics Committee, the House of Representatives Ethics Committee, and the county clerk of court within two business days of receipt. The commissions, ethics committees, and county clerks of court may shall not require any information or identification as a condition of viewing a report or reports. The commissions commission, ethics committees, and the county clerks of court shall must ensure that the reports are available for copying or purchase at a reasonable cost."
SECTION   28.   Section 8-13-1368 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1368.   (A)   A candidate is not exempt from the campaign filing requirements as provided in this article until after an election in which the candidate is a candidate or is defeated and after the candidate no longer accepts contributions, incurs expenditures, or pays for expenditures incurred.

(B)   Committees or ballot measure committees may dissolve only after no longer accepting contributions, incurring expenditures, or paying for expenditures incurred.

(C)   If a committee or a ballot measure committee owes or is owed money, the committee or a ballot measure committee may dissolve, but must report the status of the debt annually on the same schedule as active committees or ballot measure committees until all debts are resolved. The method of resolution to eliminate these debts, including contributions accepted and payment for expenditures incurred, must be stated on the report.

(D)   A final report may be filed at the time or before a scheduled filing is due. The form must be marked 'final' and include a list of the material assets worth one hundred dollars or more and state their disposition."


Printed Page 4369 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

SECTION   29.   Section 8-13-1370(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   A committee or ballot measure committee required to file reports under this article which has an unexpended balance of funds upon final disbursement not otherwise obligated for expenditures incurred to further the committee's or ballot measure committee's purposes must designate how the surplus funds are to be distributed. The surplus funds must be:

(1)   contributed to the state's general fund;

(2)   returned pro rata to all contributors;

(3)   (a)   if a committee, contributed to a political party or to another committee;

(b)   or if a ballot measure committee, to another ballot measure committee;

(4)   contributed to an organization exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; or

(5)   distributed using a combination of these options."
SECTION   30.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1371.   (A)   A ballot measure committee may not use or permit the use of contributions solicited for or received by the ballot measure committee for any purpose other than the purpose for which the ballot measure committee was originally created, unless a person making the contribution gives written authorization for a different use other than for which it was originally intended.

(B)   The State Ethics Commission shall have jurisdiction to seize all funds in a ballot measure committee's account and distribute them in accordance with subsection (D) of this section when the ballot measure committee violates the provisions of this section.

(C)   Within sixty days after the election or referendum at which the ballot measure committee attempted to influence the outcome of the election or referendum, the funds remaining in the ballot measure committee's account after the election or referendum must be distributed in accordance with subsection (D) of this section.

(D)   The seized funds must be:

(1)   contributed to the state's general fund;

(2)   contributed to an organization exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;

(3)   returned pro rata to all contributors; or

(4)   distributed using a combination of these options."
SECTION   31.   Section 8-13-1372 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:


Printed Page 4370 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"Section 8-13-1372.   (A)   The State Election Ethics Commission, in its discretion, may determine that errors or omissions on campaign reports are inadvertent and unintentional and not an effort to violate a requirement of this chapter and may be handled as technical violations which are not subject to the provisions of this chapter pertaining to ethical violations. Technical violations must remain confidential unless requested to be made public by the candidate filing the report. In lieu of all other penalties, the State Election Ethics Commission may assess a technical violations penalty not to exceed fifty dollars.

(B)   A violation, other than an inadvertent or unintentional violation, must be referred to the appropriate supervisory office for appropriate action."
SECTION   32.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1373.   If the Attorney General, after request by the State or any of its political subdivisions, refuses to defend an action brought in a court of competent jurisdiction challenging any provision of this chapter, the Budget and Control Board, using funds appropriated to it, must defend the action brought against the State or its political subdivision."
SECTION   33.   Section 8-13-1510 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1510.   Except as otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, a person required to file a report or statement under this chapter who files a late statement or report or fails to file a required statement or report must be assessed a civil penalty as follows:

(1)   a fine of one hundred dollars if the statement or report is not filed within five days after the established deadline provided by law in this chapter; or

(2)   after notice has been given by certified or registered mail that a required statement or report has not been filed, a fine of ten dollars a day for each additional calendar day in which the required statement is not filed, not exceeding five hundred dollars."
SECTION   34.   Section 8-13-1520 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1520.   (A)   Except as otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, a person who violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars or be imprisoned for not more than one year, or both. A violation of the provisions of this chapter does not necessarily subject a public official to the provisions of Section 8-13-560.


Printed Page 4371 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(B)   Except as otherwise specifically provided for in Article 13 of this chapter, a person who violates any provision of Article 13 is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five hundred percent of the amount of contributions or anything of value that should have been reported pursuant to Article 13 but not less than five thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both.

(C)   A violation of the provisions of this chapter does not necessarily subject a public official to the provisions of Section 8-13-560."
SECTION   35.   The repeal or amendment by this act of any law, whether temporary or permanent or civil or criminal, does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities founded thereon, or alter, discharge, release, or extinguish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under the repealed or amended law, unless the repealed or amended provision so expressly provides. After the effective date of this act, all laws repealed or amended by this act must be taken and treated as remaining in full force and effect for the purpose of sustaining any pending or vested right, civil action, special proceeding, criminal prosecution, or appeal existing as of the effective date of this act, and for the enforcement of rights, duties, penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities as they stood under the repealed or amended laws.
SECTION   36.   If any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or the validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words thereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.
SECTION   37.   This act takes effect January 1, 2003. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. HARRISON explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

Rep. HARRISON proposed the following Amendment No. 1A (Doc Name COUNCIL\PT\AMEND\1060DW02), which was tabled:


Printed Page 4372 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-30(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Each lobbyist, no later than April tenth and October tenth of each year, must file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that lobbyist's lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods shall be are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and shall be are from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-20(C) must be reported no later than December thirty-first of that January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   2.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-35(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Except as otherwise provided by Section 2-17-90(E), each lobbyist's principal, no later than April tenth and October tenth of each year, must file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that lobbyist's principal's expenditures attributable to lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods shall be are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and shall be are from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-25(C) must be reported no later than December thirty-first of that January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   3.   The first paragraph of Section 2-17-40(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Each state agency or department shall must, no later than April first tenth and October first tenth of each year, file a report with the State Ethics Commission covering that agency's lobbying during that filing period. The filing periods are from January first to March thirty-first for the April tenth report, and from April first to September thirtieth for the October tenth report. Any lobbying activity not reflected on the October tenth report and not reported on a statement of termination pursuant to Section 2-17-25(C) must be reported no later than January tenth of the succeeding year. Each report must be in a


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form prescribed by the State Ethics Commission and be limited to and contain:"
SECTION   4.   Section 2-17-90(A)(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(1)   as to members of the General Assembly, a function to which a member of the General Assembly is invited if the entire membership of the House, the Senate, or the General Assembly is invited, or one of the committees, subcommittees, joint committees, legislative caucuses, or county legislative delegations of the General Assembly of which the legislator is a member is invited. However, the Speaker of the House and Speaker Pro Tempore of the House may be included in an invitation to one of the above groups. In addition, invitations may be extended at national and regional conventions and conferences to all members in attendance;"
SECTION   5.   Section 2-17-90(A) of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"(7)   as to cabinet officers, a function to which all cabinet officers are invited."
SECTION   6.   Section 2-17-90(B) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(B)   No lobbyist's principal or person acting on behalf of a lobbyist's principal may provide to a public official or a public employee pursuant to subsections (A)(1), (A)(2), (A)(3), (A)(4), or (A)(5), or (A)(7) the value of lodging, transportation, entertainment, food, meals, or beverages exceeding twenty-five dollars in a day and two hundred dollars in a calendar year per public official or public employee."
SECTION   7.   Section 8-13-100(12) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(12)   'Election' means:

(a)   a general, special, primary, or runoff election;

(b)   a convention or caucus of a political party held to nominate a candidate; or

(c)   the election of delegates to a constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of this State; or

(d)   a ballot measure."
SECTION   8.   Section 8-13-320(10)(b) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(b)   If the commission or its executive director determines that the complaint does not allege facts sufficient to constitute a violation, the


Printed Page 4374 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

commission shall must shall dismiss the complaint and notify the complainant and respondent, and the entire matter must be stricken from public record unless the respondent, by written authorization to the State Ethics Commission, waives the confidentiality of the existence of the complaint and authorizes the release of information about the disposition of the complaint."
SECTION   9.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-365.   (A)   The commission must establish a system of electronic filing for disclosures and reports from all candidates and entities. In accordance with Article 13 of this chapter, reports required to be filed with the commission by candidates and committees for statewide and legislative offices after November 2, 2004, must be filed using an Internet-based filing system as prescribed by the commission. The information contained in the campaign disclosure form, with the exception of social security numbers, campaign bank account numbers, and tax ID numbers, must be publicly accessible, searchable, and transferable.

(B)   All disclosures and reports required to be filed in accordance with Article 13 of this chapter by candidates and committees for statewide and legislative offices for the election cycle beginning November 3, 2004, must be filed electronically according to requirements established by the commission. The commission remains the appropriate supervisory office for those candidates and committees set forth in Section 8-13-1300(1).

(C)   The Ethics Commission must submit to the General Assembly a report no later than January 10, 2006, concerning the effectiveness of mandatory electronic filing, and must make recommendations as to the implementation of mandatory filing for all other candidates and entities."
SECTION   10.   Section 8-13-530(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(1)   upon the filing of a complaint, investigate possible violations of breach of a privilege governing a member of the appropriate house, the alleged breach of a rule governing a member of, legislative caucus committees for, or candidate for the appropriate house, misconduct of a member of, legislative caucus committees for, or candidate for the appropriate house, or a violation of this chapter or Chapter 17 of Title 2."
SECTION   11.   Section 8-13-1300(6) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:


Printed Page 4375 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"(6)   'Committee' means an association, a club, an organization, or a group of persons which, to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure, receives contributions or makes expenditures in excess of five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle. It also means an individual a person who, to influence the outcome of an elective office or a ballot measure, makes:

(a)   contributions aggregating at least fifty thousand dollars during an election cycle to, or at the request of, a candidate or a committee, or a combination of them.; or

(b)   independent expenditures aggregating five hundred dollars or more during an election cycle for the election or defeat of a candidate.

'Committee' includes a party committee, a legislative caucus committee, a noncandidate committee, or a committee that is not a campaign committee for a candidate but that is organized for the purpose of influencing an election."
SECTION   12.   Section 8-13-1300(9) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(9)   'Election' means:

(a)   a general, special, primary, or runoff election;

(b)   a convention or caucus of a political party held to nominate a candidate; or

(c)   the election of delegates to a constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of this State; or

(d)   a ballot measure."
SECTION   13.   Section 8-13-1300(17) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(17)   'Independent expenditure' means:

(a)   an expenditure made by a person to advocate the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate or ballot measure; and

(b)   when taken as a whole and in context, the expenditure made by a person expressly to urge a particular result in an election to influence the outcome of an elective office or ballot measure but which is not:

(i)     made to;

(ii)   controlled by;

(iii)   coordinated with;

(iv)   requested by; or


Printed Page 4376 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(v)   made upon consultation with a candidate or an agent of a candidate; or a committee or agent of a committee; or a ballot measure committee or an agent of a ballot measure committee.

Expenditures by party committees or expenditures by legislative caucus committees based upon party affiliation are considered to be controlled by, coordinated with, requested by, or made upon consultation with a candidate or an agent of a candidate."
SECTION   14.   Section 8-13-1300 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding appropriately numbered items at the end to read:

"( )   'Ballot measure committee' means:

(a)   an association, club, an organization, or a group of persons which, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, receives contributions or makes expenditures in excess of two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle;

(b)   a person, other than an individual, who, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, makes contributions aggregating at least fifty thousand dollars during an election cycle to, or at the request of, a ballot measure committee; or

(c)   a person, other than an individual, who, to influence the outcome of a ballot measure, makes independent expenditures aggregating two thousand five hundred dollars or more during an election cycle.

( )   'Influence the outcome of an elective office' means:

(a)   expressly advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate using words including or substantially similar to 'vote for', 'elect', 'cast your ballot for', 'Smith for Governor', 'vote against', 'defeat', or 'reject'; or

(b)   communicating campaign slogans or individual words that, taken in context, have no other reasonable meaning other than to urge the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate including or substantially similar to slogans or words such as 'Smith's the One', 'Jones 2000', 'Smith/Jones', 'Jones!', or 'Smith-A man for the People!'

( )   'Coordinated with' means:

Discussion or negotiation between a candidate or a candidate's agent and: (a) a person; (b) an agent of a person; (c) any other agent of a candidate; or (d) any combination of these concerning, but not limited to, a political communication's:

(1)   contents, including the specific wording of print, broadcast, or telephone communications; appearance of print or broadcast


Printed Page 4377 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

communications; the message or theme of print or broadcast communications;

(2)   timing, including the proximity to general or primary elections, proximity to other political communications, and proximity to other campaign events;

(3)   location, including the proximity to other political communications, or geographical targeting, or both;

(4)   mode, including the medium (phone, broadcast, print, etc.) of the communication;

(5)   intended audience, including the demographic or political targeting, or geographical targeting; and

(6)   volume, including the amount, frequency, or size of the political communication."
SECTION   15.   Section 8-13-1302 of the 1976 Code, added by Act 248 of 1991, is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1302.   A candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee shall must maintain and preserve an account of:

(1)   the total of contributions accepted by the candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee;

(2)   the name and address of each person making a contribution and the date of receipt of each contribution;

(3)   the total of expenditures made by or on behalf of the candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee;

(4)   the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure; and

(5)   all receipted bills, canceled checks, or other proof of payment for each expenditure.

(B)   The candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee must maintain and preserve all receipted bills and accounts required by this article for four years."
SECTION   16.   Section 8-13-1304 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1304.   (A)   A committee, except an out-of-state committee, which receives or expends more than five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of an elective office or ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after receiving the contribution or making the expenditure. An out-of-state committee which expends more than five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of an


Printed Page 4378 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

elective office or a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after making the expenditure.

(B)   A ballot measure committee, except an out-of-state committee, which receives or expends more than two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after receiving the contribution or making the expenditure. An out-of-state ballot measure committee which expends more than two thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate during an election cycle to influence the outcome of a ballot measure must file a statement of organization with the State Ethics Commission no later than five days after making the expenditure."
SECTION   17.   Section 8-13-1306 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1306.   (A)   The statement of organization of a committee or a ballot measure committee must include:

(1)   the full name of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(2)   the complete address and telephone number of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(3)   the date the committee or ballot measure committee was organized;

(4)   a summary of the purpose of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(5)   the name and address of a corporation or an organization that sponsors the committee or ballot measure committee or is affiliated with the committee or ballot measure committee. If the committee or ballot measure committee is not sponsored by or affiliated with a corporation or an organization, the committee or ballot measure committee must specify the trade, profession, or primary interest of contributors to the committee or ballot measure committee;

(6)   the full name, address, telephone number, occupation, and principal place of business of the chairman and treasurer of the committee or ballot measure committee;

(7)   the full name, address, telephone number, occupation, and principal place of business of the custodian of the books and accounts, if other than the custodian is not one of the designated officers;


Printed Page 4379 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(8)   the full name and address of the depository in which the committee or ballot measure committee maintains its campaign account and the number of the account; and

(9)   a certification of the statement by the chairman and the treasurer.

(B)   The name of the committee or ballot measure committee designated on the statement of organization must incorporate the full name of the sponsoring entity, if any. An acronym or abbreviation may be used in other communications if the acronym or abbreviation commonly is known or clearly recognized by the general public.

(C)   The chairman must notify the State Ethics Commission in writing of a change in information previously reported in a statement of organization no later than ten business days after the change."
SECTION   18.   Section 8-13-1308 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding a new subsection to read:

"(G)   Notwithstanding any other reporting requirements in this chapter, a political party, legislative caucus committee, and a party committee must file a certified campaign report upon the receipt of anything of value which total in the aggregate five hundred dollars or more. For purposes of this section, 'anything of value' includes contributions received which may be used for the payment of operation expenses of a political party, legislative caucus committee, or a party committee. A political party must also comply with the reporting requirements of subsections (B), (C), and (F) of Section 8-13-1308 in the same manner as a candidate or committee."
SECTION   19.   Section 8-13-1308(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1308.   (A)   Upon the receipt or expenditure of campaign contributions or the making of independent expenditures totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, of five hundred dollars or more, a candidate or committee required to file a statement of organization pursuant to Section 8-13-1304(A) must file an initial certified campaign report within ten days of these initial receipts or expenditures. However, a candidate or a committee that who does not receive or expend campaign contributions totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, of five hundred dollars or more must file an initial certified campaign report fifteen days before an election. In addition to the mandatory requirements of Section 8-13-365(B), any candidate or committee may file electronically."
SECTION   20.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:


Printed Page 4380 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"Section 8-13-1309.   (A)   Upon the receipt or expenditure of campaign contributions or the making of independent expenditures totaling, in an accumulated aggregate, two thousand five hundred dollars or more, a ballot measure committee required to file a statement of organization pursuant to Section 8-13-1304(B) must file an initial certified campaign report within ten days of these initial receipts or expenditures.

(B)   Following the filing of an initial certified campaign report, additional certified campaign reports must be filed within ten days following the end of each calendar quarter in which contributions are received or expenditures are made, whether before or after a ballot measure election until the campaign account undergoes final disbursement pursuant to the provisions of Section 8-13-1370(C).

(C)   At least fifteen days before a ballot measure election, a certified campaign report must be filed showing contributions of more than one hundred dollars and expenditures to or by the ballot measure committee for the period ending twenty days before the ballot measure election. The ballot measure committee must maintain a current list during the period before the ballot measure election commencing at the beginning of the calendar quarter of the election of all contributions of more than one hundred dollars. The list must be open to public inspection upon request.

(D)   Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (B) and (C), if a pre-election campaign report provided for in subsection (C) is required to be filed within thirty days of the end of the prior quarter, a ballot measure committee must combine the quarterly report provided for in subsection (B) and the pre-election report and file the combined report subject to the provisions of subsection (C) no later than fifteen days before the ballot measure election.

(E)   Certified campaign reports detailing campaign contributions and expenditures must contain:

(1)   the total of contributions accepted by the ballot measure committee;

(2)   the name and address of each person making a contribution of more than one hundred dollars and the date of receipt of each contribution;

(3)   the total expenditures made by or on behalf of the ballot measure committee; and

(4)   the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made from campaign funds, including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure."


Printed Page 4381 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

SECTION   21.   Section 8-13-1310 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1310.   (A)   All persons required to file certified campaign reports under this article must file those reports with the appropriate supervisory office.

(B)   The Senate Ethics Committee and the House of Representatives Ethics Committee must forward a copy of each statement filed with it to the State Ethics Commission within five business days of receipt.

(C)   Within five days of receipt, a copy of all campaign reports received by the State Ethics Commission must be forwarded to the State Election Commission and the clerk of court in the county of residence of the person required to file.

(D)   As provided in Section 8-13-1372, the State Election Ethics Commission must review all statements forwarded to it by the State Ethics Commission for inadvertent and unintentional errors or omissions."
SECTION   22.   Section 8-13-1316 of the 1976 Code, added by Act 248 of 1991, is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1316.   (A)   Within an election cycle, a candidate may not accept or receive contributions from a political party through its party committees or legislative caucus committees and a political party through its party committees or legislative caucus committees may not give to a candidate contributions which total in the aggregate more than:

(1)   fifty thousand dollars in the case of a candidate for statewide office; or

(2)   five thousand dollars in the case of a candidate for any other office.

(B)   Party expenditures for partisan multi-candidate promotions for four or more candidates, including candidates for the United States Senate or the United States House of Representatives, where each candidate receives substantially equal treatment, both in terms of time or length discussed and prominence in presentation, shall not be included in the contribution limits under subsection (A). However, multi-candidate promotional expenditures are limited to:

(1)   the operation of telephone banks;

(2)   the preparation, mailing, and distribution of campaign materials including newspaper, television, and radio advertisements; or

(3)   voter registration and ballot information.


Printed Page 4382 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(C)   The recipient of a contribution given in violation of subsection (A) may not keep the contribution, but within ten days must remit the contribution to the Children's Trust Fund."
SECTION   23.   Section 8-13-1324 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1324.   (A)   A person may not make an anonymous contribution to a candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee, and a candidate, or committee, or ballot measure committee may not accept an anonymous contribution from an individual except at a ticketed event where food or beverages are served or where political merchandise is distributed and where the price of the ticket is twenty-five dollars or less and goes toward defraying the cost of food, beverages, or political merchandise in whole or in part.

(B)   The recipient of an anonymous contribution given in violation of subsection (A) or the recipient of any other anonymous contribution may not keep the contribution but within seven days must remit the contribution to the Children's Trust Fund."
SECTION   24.   Section 8-13-1332 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1332.   It is unlawful for:

(1)   a committee or ballot measure committee to make a contribution or expenditure by using:

(a)   anything of value secured by physical force, job discrimination, financial reprisals, or threat of the same; or

(b)   dues, fees, or other monies required as a condition of membership in a labor organization, or as a condition of employment; or

(c)   monies obtained by the committee or the ballot measure committee in a commercial transaction;

(2)   a person to solicit an employee for a contribution and fail to inform the employee of the political purposes of the committee or ballot measure committee and of the employee's right to refuse to contribute without any advantage or promise of an advantage conditioned upon making the contribution or reprisal or threat of reprisal related to the failure to make the contribution; and

(3)   a corporation or committee of a corporation to solicit contributions to the corporation or committee from a person other than its shareholders, directors, executive or administrative personnel, and their families;, except as provided in Section 8-13-1333


Printed Page 4383 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(4)   an organization or committee of an organization to solicit contributions to the organization or committee from a person other than its members and their families."
SECTION   25.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1333.   (A)   Not-for-profit corporations and committees formed by not-for-profit corporations may solicit contributions from the general public;

(B)   An organization or a committee of an organization may solicit contributions from the general public."
SECTION   26.   Section 8-13-1348(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1348.   (A)   No candidate, committee, public official, or political party, or ballot measure committee may use campaign funds to defray personal expenses which are unrelated to the campaign or the office if the candidate is an officeholder; nor may these funds be converted to personal use. The prohibition of this subsection does not extend to the incidental personal use of campaign materials or equipment nor to an expenditure used to defray any ordinary expenses incurred in connection with an individual's duties as a holder of elective office."
SECTION   27.   Section 8-13-1354 of the 1976 Code, as amended by Act 6 of 1995 is further amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1354.   A candidate, committee, or other person which makes an expenditure in the distribution, posting, or broadcasting of a communication to voters supporting or opposing a public official, or a candidate, or a ballot measure must place his name and address on the printed matter or have his name spoken clearly on a broadcast so as to identify accurately the person and his address. Campaign buttons, balloons, yard signs, or similar items are exempt from this requirement."
SECTION   28.   Section 8-13-1366 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1366.   Certified campaign reports must be made available for public inspection at the office of the State Ethics Commission, the State Election Commission, the Senate Ethics Committee, the House of Representatives Ethics Committee, and the county clerk of court within two business days of receipt. The commissions, ethics committees, and county clerks of court may shall not require any information or identification as a condition of viewing a report or reports. The commissions commission, ethics committees,


Printed Page 4384 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

and the county clerks of court shall must ensure that the reports are available for copying or purchase at a reasonable cost."
SECTION   29.   Section 8-13-1368 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1368.   (A)   A candidate is not exempt from the campaign filing requirements as provided in this article until after an election in which the candidate is a candidate or is defeated and after the candidate no longer accepts contributions, incurs expenditures, or pays for expenditures incurred.

(B)   Committees or ballot measure committees may dissolve only after no longer accepting contributions, incurring expenditures, or paying for expenditures incurred.

(C)   If a committee or a ballot measure committee owes or is owed money, the committee or a ballot measure committee may dissolve, but must report the status of the debt annually on the same schedule as active committees or ballot measure committees until all debts are resolved. The method of resolution to eliminate these debts, including contributions accepted and payment for expenditures incurred, must be stated on the report.

(D)   A final report may be filed at the time or before a scheduled filing is due. The form must be marked 'final' and include a list of the material assets worth one hundred dollars or more and state their disposition."
SECTION   30.   Section 8-13-1370(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   A committee or ballot measure committee required to file reports under this article which has an unexpended balance of funds upon final disbursement not otherwise obligated for expenditures incurred to further the committee's or ballot measure committee's purposes must designate how the surplus funds are to be distributed. The surplus funds must be:

(1)   contributed to the state's general fund;

(2)   returned pro rata to all contributors;

(3)   (a)   if a committee, contributed to a political party or to another committee;

(b)   or if a ballot measure committee, to another ballot measure committee;

(4)   contributed to an organization exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; or

(5)   distributed using a combination of these options."
SECTION   31.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:


Printed Page 4385 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"Section 8-13-1371.   (A)   A ballot measure committee may not use or permit the use of contributions solicited for or received by the ballot measure committee for any purpose other than the purpose for which the ballot measure committee was originally created, unless a person making the contribution gives written authorization for a different use other than for which it was originally intended.

(B)   The State Ethics Commission shall have jurisdiction to seize all funds in a ballot measure committee's account and distribute them in accordance with subsection (D) of this section when the ballot measure committee violates the provisions of this section.

(C)   Within sixty days after the election or referendum at which the ballot measure committee attempted to influence the outcome of the election or referendum, the funds remaining in the ballot measure committee's account after the election or referendum must be distributed in accordance with subsection (D) of this section.

(D)   The seized funds must be:

(1)   contributed to the state's general fund;

(2)   contributed to an organization exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;

(3)   returned pro rata to all contributors; or

(4)   distributed using a combination of these options."
SECTION   32.   Section 8-13-1372 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1372.   (A)   The State Election Ethics Commission, in its discretion, may determine that errors or omissions on campaign reports are inadvertent and unintentional and not an effort to violate a requirement of this chapter and may be handled as technical violations which are not subject to the provisions of this chapter pertaining to ethical violations. Technical violations must remain confidential unless requested to be made public by the candidate filing the report. In lieu of all other penalties, the State Election Ethics Commission may assess a technical violations penalty not to exceed fifty dollars.

(B)   A violation, other than an inadvertent or unintentional violation, must be referred to the appropriate supervisory office for appropriate action."
SECTION   33.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 8-13-1373.   If the Attorney General, after request by the State or any of its political subdivisions, refuses to defend an action brought in a court of competent jurisdiction challenging any provision of this chapter, the Budget and Control Board, using funds appropriated


Printed Page 4386 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

to it, must defend the action brought against the State or its political subdivision."
SECTION   34.   Section 8-13-1510 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1510.   Except as otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, a person required to file a report or statement under this chapter who files a late statement or report or fails to file a required statement or report must be assessed a civil penalty as follows:

(1)   a fine of one hundred dollars if the statement or report is not filed within five days after the established deadline provided by law in this chapter; or

(2)   after notice has been given by certified or registered mail that a required statement or report has not been filed, a fine of ten dollars a day for each additional calendar day in which the required statement is not filed, not exceeding five hundred dollars."
SECTION   35.   Section 8-13-1520 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 8-13-1520.   (A)   Except as otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, a person who violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars or be imprisoned for not more than one year, or both. A violation of the provisions of this chapter does not necessarily subject a public official to the provisions of Section 8-13-560.

(B)   Except as otherwise specifically provided for in Article 13 of this chapter, a person who violates any provision of Article 13 is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five hundred percent of the amount of contributions or anything of value that should have been reported pursuant to Article 13 but not less than five thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both.

(C)   A violation of the provisions of this chapter does not necessarily subject a public official to the provisions of Section 8-13-560."
SECTION   36.   The repeal or amendment by this act of any law, whether temporary or permanent or civil or criminal, does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities founded thereon, or alter, discharge, release, or extinguish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under the repealed or amended law, unless the repealed or amended provision so expressly provides. After the effective date of this act, all laws repealed or amended by this act must be taken and


Printed Page 4387 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

treated as remaining in full force and effect for the purpose of sustaining any pending or vested right, civil action, special proceeding, criminal prosecution, or appeal existing as of the effective date of this act, and for the enforcement of rights, duties, penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities as they stood under the repealed or amended laws.
SECTION   37.   If any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or the validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words thereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.
SECTION   38.   This act takes effect January 1, 2003. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. HARRISON moved to table the amendment, which was agreed to.

Rep. SHEHEEN proposed the following Amendment No. 2A (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\AMEND\9243HTC02), which was tabled:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
/ SECTION   __.   A.   Section 2-17-20(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   Each lobbyist who ceases to engage in lobbying requiring him to register under this section must file a written statement with the State Ethics Commission acknowledging the termination of lobbying. The written statement of termination is effective immediately. Each lobbyist who files a written statement of termination under this section must file reports required by this chapter for any reporting period during which he the lobbyist was registered engaged in lobbying requiring him to register under this section."
B.   Section 2-17-25(G) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(G)   A lobbyist must reregister annually with the State Ethics Commission by January fifth of each year. Registration is for the remainder of the calendar year. Any provisions of this chapter apply


Printed Page 4388 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

for the remainder of the calendar year in which a lobbyist is registered, regardless of termination of lobbying activities during that year."
C.   Section 2-17-25(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   Each lobbyist's principal who ceases to authorize lobbying requiring him to register under this section must file a written statement with the State Ethics Commission acknowledging the termination of lobbying. The written statement of termination is effective immediately. Each lobbyist's principal who files a written statement of termination under this section must file reports required by this chapter for any reporting period during which he the lobbyist's principal was registered under this section."
D.   Section 2-17-25(G) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(G)   A lobbyist's principal must reregister annually with the State Ethics Commission by January fifth of each year. Registration is for the remainder of the calendar year. Any provisions of this chapter apply for the remainder of the calendar year in which a lobbyist's principal is registered, regardless of termination of authorization of lobbying activities during that year." /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. SHEHEEN explained the amendment.

Rep. HARRISON moved to table the amendment.

Rep. SHEHEEN demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 58; Nays 42

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Altman                 Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bingham
Cato                   Chellis                Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter            Cooper                 Dantzler
Davenport              Edge                   Fleming
Frye                   Gilham                 Govan
Harrell                Harrison               Hinson
Howard                 Huggins                Keegan
Kelley                 Kirsh                  Koon
Leach                  Lee                    Limehouse
Littlejohn             Mack                   Martin

Printed Page 4389 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Meacham-Richardson     Neal, J.H.             Ott
Parks                  Perry                  Quinn
Riser                  Rutherford             Sandifer
Scarborough            Sharpe                 Simrill
Smith, J.R.            Smith, W.D.            Stille
Stuart                 Townsend               Trotter
Vaughn                 Walker                 White
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Young, A.
Young, J.

Total--58

Those who voted in the negative are:

Bales                  Bowers                 Breeland
Brown, G.              Brown, R.              Campsen
Coleman                Cotty                  Delleney
Easterday              Emory                  Freeman
Hamilton               Haskins                Hayes
Hines, J.              Hosey                  Jennings
Lloyd                  Lourie                 Lucas
McCraw                 McGee                  McLeod
Merrill                Miller                 Moody-Lawrence
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Rice
Rivers                 Sheheen                Smith, D.C.
Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.E.            Snow
Talley                 Taylor                 Thompson
Webb                   Weeks                  Wilder

Total--42

So, the amendment was tabled.

The Senate amendments, as amended, were then agreed to and the Bill was ordered returned to the Senate.

S. 721--REQUEST FOR DEBATE WITHDRAWN

Rep. SNOW withdrew his request for debate on S. 721 (Word version); however, other requests for debate remained on the Bill.


Printed Page 4390 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

MOTION PERIOD

The motion period was dispensed with on motion of Rep. WALKER.

S. 12--ORDERED TO THIRD READING

Debate was resumed on the following Bill, the pending question being the consideration of amendments:

S. 12 (Word version) -- Senators Richardson, Mescher, Grooms, McConnell and Branton: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 40, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE ORGANIZATION, OPERATION, AND GOVERNANCE OF CHARTER SCHOOLS.

AMENDMENT NO. 5--RECONSIDERED AND TABLED

Rep. McGEE proposed the following Amendment No. 5 (Doc Name COUNCIL\PT\AMEND\1046DW02), which was tabled:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 12-4, Section 59-40-50(B)(7) as contained in SECTION 1, by striking lines 14 through 27 and inserting:
/     (6)(7)   admit all children eligible to attend public school in a school district who are eligible to apply for admission to a charter school operating in that school district, subject to space limitations. However, under no circumstances may a charter school enrollment differ from the racial composition of the school district by more than ten percent. If the number of applications exceeds the capacity of a program, class, grade level, or building, students shall must be accepted by lot, and there is no appeal to the sponsor; /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. LOFTIS moved to reconsider the vote whereby Amendment No. 5 was adopted, which was agreed to.

Rep. TOWNSEND moved to table the amendment, which was agreed to.


Printed Page 4391 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Pursuant to Rule 7.7 the Yeas and Nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 88; Nays 15

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Bales                  Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bingham
Bowers                 Campsen                Carnell
Cato                   Chellis                Clyburn
Coates                 Cooper                 Cotty
Dantzler               Davenport              Delleney
Easterday              Edge                   Emory
Fleming                Freeman                Frye
Gilham                 Gourdine               Hamilton
Harrell                Harrison               Haskins
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hinson
Hosey                  Huggins                Jennings
Keegan                 Kelley                 Kirsh
Koon                   Law                    Leach
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Loftis
Lourie                 Lucas                  Martin
McCraw                 McGee                  Meacham-Richardson
Merrill                Miller                 Neal, J.H.
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Ott
Owens                  Perry                  Quinn
Rhoad                  Rice                   Riser
Sandifer               Scarborough            Sharpe
Sheheen                Simrill                Smith, D.C.
Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.E.            Smith, J.R.
Smith, W.D.            Stille                 Talley
Taylor                 Thompson               Townsend
Tripp                  Trotter                Vaughn
Walker                 Webb                   White
Wilder                 Wilkins                Young, A.
Young, J.

Total--88

Those who voted in the negative are:

Altman                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, R.              Cobb-Hunter            Govan

Printed Page 4392 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Howard                 Mack                   McLeod
Moody-Lawrence         Rivers                 Rutherford
Scott                  Stuart                 Weeks

Total--15

So, the Bill was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

S. 232--RECOMMITTED

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 232 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 27, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROPERTY AND CONVEYANCES BY ADDING CHAPTER 42 ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA VACATION RENTAL ACT" SO AS TO REGULATE THE BUSINESS OF RENTAL MANAGEMENT OF VACATION TIME RENTAL PROPERTY, TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS WITH REGARD TO THIS REGULATION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE STATUS OF VACATION RENTALS ON TRANSFERRED PROPERTY, TO PROHIBIT A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY FROM BANNING VACATION RENTALS EXCEPT PURSUANT TO SPECIFIC AUTHORIZATION FOR SUCH BANS ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY BY GENERAL LAW, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A TENANT IN POSSESSION OF PROPERTY UNDER A VACATION RENTAL IS SUBJECT TO A MANDATORY EVACUATION ORDER.

Rep. EDGE moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry, which was agreed to.

S. 638--DEBATE ADJOURNED

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 638 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 53, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPECIAL DAYS BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-150 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MARCH SIXTH OF EACH YEAR IS LYMPHEDEMA D-DAY IN SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO ENCOURAGE SOUTH CAROLINIANS TO WEAR A BUTTERFLY ON LYMPHEDEMA D-DAY AS A SYMBOL OF CARING AND


Printed Page 4393 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

HOPE FOR THOSE LIVING AND COPING WITH LYMPHEDEMA AND THE DEBILITATING CONDITION ASSOCIATED WITH LYMPHEDEMA.

Rep. BINGHAM moved to adjourn debate on the Bill until Friday, June 7, which was agreed to.

S. 42--DEBATE ADJOURNED

Rep. CATO moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill until Thursday, June 6, which was adopted:

S. 42 (Word version) -- Senators J. V. Smith, Giese, Reese and Branton: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 81 SO AS TO PLACE THE STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION AND TO CONFORM THIS CHAPTER TO THE STATUTORY ORGANIZATIONAL FRAMEWORK ESTABLISHED FOR PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF VARIOUS ATHLETES AND ATHLETIC EVENTS; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 7, TITLE 52, RELATING TO THE STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION AND TO COUNTY ATHLETIC COMMISSIONS.

S. 464--AMENDED AND ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 464 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 23, TITLE 59 SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR APPLICABLE STANDARDS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND CODES WHICH APPLY TO THE CONSTRUCTION, IMPROVEMENT, OR RENOVATION OF PUBLIC SCHOOL BUILDINGS AND PROPERTY, AND TO REQUIRE THE CONSTRUCTION, IMPROVEMENT, OR RENOVATION OF PUBLIC SCHOOL BUILDINGS AND PROPERTY TO BE INSPECTED BY THE STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION OR THE SUPERINTENDENT'S DESIGNEE BEFORE OCCUPANCY; AND TO REPEAL ARTICLE, 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 59, OF THE 1976


Printed Page 4394 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

CODE RELATING TO SCHOOL BUILDING CODES AND INSPECTIONS.

The Education and Public Works Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\GJK\AMEND\ 21384DW02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
/   SECTION   ____.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 59-104-25.   (A)   For the purposes of applying for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarships, beginning with students graduating in 2002 and thereafter, a 'magnet school' is defined as any public school within a school district whose enrollment is open to all students of that district with all of the following characteristics:

(a)   is attended by students outside their attendance zone who could not attend it if it were not a magnet school;

(b)   emphasizes an academic theme or specialization; and

(c)   was established for desegregation purposes.

(B)   For all students in magnet schools as defined in subsection (A), whenever a student meets all criteria for applying for the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship except for rank in class, the student may use the rank in class from the high school he or she would have attended had there been no magnet school so long as by submitting an application for a Palmetto Fellows Scholarship, the magnet school student does not cause the regular high school to exceed the five percent limitation from its sophomore or junior class for these scholarships.

(C)   The magnet high schools shall be responsible for obtaining official documentation from the regular high school that the magnet high school student is within the top five percent of either the sophomore or junior class. This documentation must be submitted with the student's Palmetto Fellows Scholarship application supporting documents. The official documentation shall include the name of the regular high school, the number in the class and whether it is the sophomore or junior year, and the student's exact rank in that class. Once the Commission on Higher Education has received all eligible applications, the commission shall ensure that the sending high schools do not exceed five percent of their classes with the inclusion of the magnet school applicants."
/SECTION   ____.   Article 21, Chapter 53, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:


Printed Page 4395 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

"Article 21
Vocational Career and Technology Training

Section 59-53-1810.   The State of South Carolina hereby accepts the provisions of an act of Congress entitled: 'To Provide for the Promotion of Vocational Education; to Provide for Cooperation with the States in the Promotion of Such Education in Agriculture and the Trades and Industries; to Provide for Cooperation with the States in the Preparation of Teachers of Vocational Subjects; and to Appropriate Money and Regulate Its Expenditure', and hereby designates and constitutes the State Board of Education as the South Carolina State Board of Vocational Career and Technology Training to cooperate with the United States Government in putting such law into operation.

Section 59-53-1820.   The State Board of Vocational Career and Technology Training may cooperate with any local or state agency for the advancement of agricultural and industrial education.

Section 59-53-1830.   The State Treasurer is hereby created and appointed custodian of all funds coming to the State from the United States under the provisions of the act referred to in Section 59-53-1810 and shall be is responsible on his bond for the correct and proper handling of such the funds. All moneys monies appropriated by the State or paid into the State Treasury from the United States for the purpose set forth in Sections 59-53-1810 to 59-53-1870 shall must be paid out upon the order of the State Board of Education, duly countersigned and approved by the secretary of the board, and itemized vouchers shall must be filed with the Comptroller General as in the case of other funds.

Section 59-53-1840.   There shall must be appropriated annually, out of the State Treasury, for the promotion of vocational career and technology education in agriculture, subjects, industrial subjects and home economic engineering or industrial technology, and family and consumer science subjects, a sum not less than the amount which may be apportioned to the State from the funds appropriated by the Congress of the United States in an act entitled 'An Act to Provide for the Promotion of Vocational Education; to Provide for Cooperation with the States in the Promotion of such Education in Agriculture and the Trades and Industries; to Provide for Cooperation with the States in the Preparation of Teachers of Vocational Subjects; and to Appropriate Money and Regulate its Expenditure', approved February 23, 1917.

Section 59-53-1850.   Moneys Monies appropriated under the terms of Sections 59-53-1810 to 59-53-1870 shall must be paid out


Printed Page 4396 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

upon the order of the State Board of Education, duly countersigned and approved by the secretary of the State Board of Education Clemson University, and itemized vouchers shall must be filed with the Comptroller General as in the case of other funds.

For high schools and joint vocational career and technology schools having a vocational career and technology agriculture program, monies appropriated for this purpose shall must be disbursed for use by such the schools to conduct vocational career and technology agriculture programs on a full-time twelve-month per year basis. The provisions of this section shall not prohibit monies appropriated for vocational career and technology agriculture to be used in programs of less than twelve months per each year. The local school board shall decide whether all or any part of its vocational career and technology agricultural program shall be 12 twelve months or less than 12 twelve months after consideration of the local board's needs assessment for vocational career and technology agriculture and the findings of the State Department of Education's Clemson University's review of the local vocational career and technology agricultural program.

Section 59-53-1860.   The State Board of Education may use the funds appropriated by Sections 59-53-1810 to 59-53-1870 for the payment of the salaries of teachers, supervisors, or directors of vocational career and technology subjects, for the purchase of supplies and equipment to be used by vocational career and technology classes, for the maintenance of classes for training teachers of vocational career and technology subjects or for the administration of vocational career and technology education, including necessary supervision and clerical help.

Due to the special characteristics of agriculture education work experiences which require instruction during the summer and on a year-round basis, monies appropriated for this purpose shall must be available on a full-time twelve-month per year basis to those high schools and joint vocational career and technology schools whose teachers of vocational career and technology agriculture are responsible for the following programs of instruction on a full-time basis during the interim between academic years:

(a)   supervision and instruction of students in agriculture experience programs;

(b)   group and individual instruction of farmers and agribusinessmen;

(c)   supervision of student members of 'Future Farmers of America' who are involved in leadership training or other activities as


Printed Page 4397 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

part of their vocational career and technology education instructional program; and

(d)   any program of vocational career and technology agriculture established by the State Board of Education.

Section 59-53-1870.   The State Board of Education shall adopt rules and regulations governing the expenditures of moneys monies appropriated by Sections 59-53-1810 to 59-53-1870 and shall make the same known to the various school districts of the State in order that they may know the conditions under which they are entitled to share in the funds available for vocational career and technology education.

On or before December 30, 1980, the The State Board of Education shall adopt instructional program standards for vocational career and technology programs and a needs assessment format which includes instructional requirements for the special characteristics of the different vocational career and technology programs, using as a guide for vocational career and technology agriculture the standards of quality vocational career and technology programs in agriculture/agribusiness education developed by the vocational career and technology agricultural education profession. The instruction program standards for vocational career and technology agriculture programs shall include the instructional programs for the interim between academic years which are itemized in Section 59-53-1860 of the 1976 Code, as amended.

These instructional program standards shall be incorporated in the South Carolina State Plan for Vocational- Technical Career and Technology Education as adopted by the State Board of Education. The instructional standards adopted by the State Board of Education shall must be used to evaluate all vocational career and technology programs.

Local programs of vocational career and technology agriculture education and the school district's needs assessment for agriculture education programs shall must be reviewed by the State Department of Education Clemson University consultants for agriculture education with the participation of an advisory team consisting at minimum of a member of the local advisory committee for vocational career and technology agriculture, a member of the local advisory council for vocational career and technology education, and a teacher-educator for agriculture education from Clemson University. The findings of such these reviews shall include an explicit statement of the vocational career and technology agricultural education needs of the students and the agriculture community served by such the local program. Any


Printed Page 4398 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

member of this review team shall must be allowed to include a minority opinion in the findings of the review. These reviews shall must be scheduled by the State Department of Education Clemson University at intervals adequate to assure local program compliance with the State Plan for Vocational and Technical Career and Technology Education. Whenever a high school or joint vocational career and technology school's annual report, as required by Section 59-20-60, the S. C. Education Finance Act of 1977, on programmatic needs fails to justify or continue offering on a full-time twelve-month per year basis any existing vocational career and technology agriculture education program, the school district board of trustees for such the school shall include and consider the findings of the State Department of Education Clemson University review of the local vocational career and technology agriculture program in the needs assessment of such the district board of trustee's comprehensive annual and long-range plan for meeting program needs.

Section 59-53-1880.   For the purpose of developing and maintaining vocational career and technology education facilities and programs to serve an area not exclusively within the boundaries of a single school district, the school districts serving such an area are empowered to affiliate with each other under such the terms and conditions, not in conflict with this section and Section 59-53-1890, as they see fit. The affiliation shall must be evidenced by a written instrument to be filed with the secretary and administrative officer of the State Board of Education and with the county boards of education concerned.

Section 59-53-1890.   The affiliation agreement shall provide:

(a)   for the affiliating school districts to appoint a liaison committee which shall recommend organizational and administrative procedures and measures to assure adequate accounting procedures;

(b)   procedures by which vocational career and technology education funds appropriated by the federal, state, or county government may be applied for and received;

(c)   procedures by which one of the affiliating school districts may hold title for the benefit of all to real and personal property acquired with such funds; and

(d)   that each of the affiliating school districts shall have an equity in such the joint assets to the extent that the assessed tax value of the property within such the school district bears to the aggregate assessed tax value of the property within the combined area of the school districts. If less than an entire school district is served by such


Printed Page 4399 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

vocational the career and technology education facilities or programs, only the area served shall must be considered in computing equities in joint assets.

Section 59-53-1900.   Any group of two or more school districts of the State, without regard to county lines, may join to create vocational career and technology school boards (hereinafter referred to as boards) to construct, operate, govern, supervise, manage, and control vocational schools. Provided, however However, that the provisions of this section shall not be applicable to any school district with a vocational career and technology center serving only those students residing within its geographical limits. Each board shall consist of six appointed members, to be apportioned among the districts joining in the creation of the board as the districts may agree. Members shall must be selected by the school boards of trustees from the members of their respective district school boards of trustees. The terms of the members of the board shall must be concurrent with their terms on the district school board of trustees. In the event that If vacancies occur or members of the boards cease to be members of their respective boards of trustees, such the vacancies shall must be filled by members from the same school board of trustees of which the withdrawing member was a member, selected by the trustees of that district or county.

The superintendent of each participating district shall serve as an ex officio non-voting nonvoting member of the board. The superintendents shall must be administrative members of the board and shall jointly nominate staff and assume such responsibilities and perform such duties as may be prescribed by law or by regulations of the State Board of Education or as may be prescribed by the vocational career and technology school board.

As soon as convenient after June 4, 1975 the The respective boards of trustees of participating districts shall select their members and the boards shall convene and organize by electing one member as chairman and one as vice chairman. The terms of chairman and vice chairman shall be are for one year. The boards shall have such other officers and prescribe terms thereof as deemed considered necessary.

The members of the boards shall must be paid such compensation as the boards may provide by resolution; provided, that such the compensation shall not exceed fifty dollars per meeting and mileage at a rate of fourteen cents per mile.

Section 59-53-1910.   The vocational career and technology school shall not constitute a separate school district but shall be a joint project for the establishment of a vocational career and technology school by


Printed Page 4400 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

the cooperating school districts. The vocational career and technology school shall must be funded by the respective district boards, as the district boards may agree upon. The costs of acquiring real property and the improvements thereon on it are to be borne by the respective district boards according to their agreement thereon.

Section 59-53-1920.   The boards shall must be fully empowered to operate, govern, supervise, manage, control, direct, acquire, construct, maintain, improve, and extend the facilities of the schools. To that end, the boards shall have the following powers to:

(1)   To have perpetual succession.;

(2)   To sue and be sued.;

(3)   To adopt, use, and alter an institutional seal.;

(4)   To define a quorum for meetings.;

(5)   To establish a principal office.;

(6)   To make bylaws for the management and regulation of their affairs.;

(7)   To acquire, build, construct, equip, maintain, and operate a vocational career and technology school or schools.;

(8)   To select a vocational career and technology school director or directors.;

(9)   To accept gifts or grants of services, properties, or monies from private individuals or entities, from the State of South Carolina, the United States, or its agencies thereof. ;

(10)   To make contracts and execute and deliver all instruments necessary or convenient for the carrying on of the business of the vocational career and technology school.;

(11)   To acquire in the name of the cooperating districts, as tenants in common, by purchase or gift, all land and interest therein in it which the boards shall, in their discretion, deem consider necessary to enable them to fully and adequately discharge their responsibilities.;

(12)   To appoint officers, agents, and employees and prescribe their duties, fix their compensation, and determine if and to what extent they shall must be bonded for the faithful performance of their duties; and to make contracts for construction, architectural, engineering, legal, and other services and materials.;

(13)   To determine each school year the student capacity of the vocational career and technology school, with the capacity to be apportioned by agreement among the cooperating districts. In the event that in If any school year any of the respective boards fail to fulfill their quota, the other boards shall must be permitted to fill such the unused allocation with students from their county. The boards


Printed Page 4401 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

utilizing the unused allocation shall pay for each student on a pro rata part of the year's current operating expenses based upon the budget. This amount shall must be paid at the beginning of the fiscal year, except that the actual cost shall may not be computed until the end of the current school year or the end of each semester and adjustments shall must be made at that time. Nothing herein shall in this section must be construed to limit the cost of maintenance, support, and operations of the vocational career and technology schools jointly.; and

(14)   To perform all other actions necessary or convenient to carry out any responsibility, function, or power committed or granted to the boards.

Section 59-53-1930.   The boards shall conduct their affairs on the fiscal year basis employed by the State. As soon after the close of each fiscal year as may be practicable, an audit of school affairs shall must be made by a certified public accountant, to be designated by the boards. Copies of such the audits, incorporated into annual reports of the boards, shall must be filed with the cooperating school districts.

Section 59-53-1940.   It shall be is unlawful for any a person to wilfully injure or destroy, or in any manner hurt, damage, tamper with, or impair the facilities of a vocational board, or any part thereof of it. Any A person violating the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction, shall must be fined not less than ten dollars nor more than one hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than thirty days at the discretion of the court, and shall must be further liable to pay the cost of all damages.

Section 59-53-1950.   The General Assembly shall provide funds in the annual general appropriation appropriations act for the purchase of equipment for vocational career and technology training pursuant to the Department of Education's State Plan for vocational-technical education Career and Technology Education. The highest priority in funding for vocational career and technology education must be given to job preparatory workforce preparation, occupational proficiency courses in areas related to:

(a)   current high technology trades, businesses, and industries;

(b)   high labor market and high labor intensive demand;

(c)   small business management; and

(d)   new and emerging trades, industries, and businesses which foster and enhance the economic development, stability, and diversification of the State's economy.

Section 59-53-1960.   Commencing with 1987-88, to To continue existing job preparatory workforce preparation programs, other than


Printed Page 4402 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

vocational career and technology agriculture, fifty percent of the graduates available for placement must be placed during the prior three years in the area for which training was provided. Each graduate of a job preparatory vocational workforce preparation career and technology education program must be surveyed by his school district ten months after graduation to determine job placement status. The school districts shall make an annual report to the State Board of Education of the findings of its survey. The State Board of Education shall report the results of the district surveys to the Governor, General Assembly, and the Advisory Council on Vocation Technical Career and Technology Education. The State Board of Education may waive the fifty percent requirement upon recommendation of the school district, if the district can demonstrate that a program responds to the employment needs of new or expanding businesses or industries. Students must be advised prior to before enrollment in a job preparatory workforce preparation program of possible discontinuation of the program, if placement data indicate possible discontinuation, and of the employment outlook for graduates of the program. Students enrolling in vocational career and technology programs which are not preparatory for employment must be clearly advised of this fact by the school district.

Section 59-53-1970.   South Carolina's evolving economy, new conditions in the workplace, and changing needs of employers combined with the provisions of basic skills remedial programs, increased course requirements, and modernization of equipment require a reassessment of the state's efforts to prepare young people for employment. To assist the General Assembly and the Governor in reviewing the state's vocational education system for grades 9 through 12, the South Carolina Advisory Council on Vocational and Technical Education is directed to conduct an intensive study of how the vocational education system can best prepare young people with skills employers will require between the years 1990 and 2000.

This study shall provide the General Assembly with:

(1)   data on and analysis of students' use of the vocational education system, delineating among participation in courses, between occupational and non-occupational courses of study, and between students who participate in a complete sequence of courses as opposed to those who take only one or two courses;

(2)   recommendations for the creation of a new management information system which will provide the General Assembly with more timely, accurate, and useful information about student


Printed Page 4403 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

participation in, completion of, and placement from various vocational education programs, and the effects of students' participation in these programs;

(3)   a demographic and achievement profile of students who enroll in, complete, and are placed from vocational education courses;

(4)   a report of employers' expectations of and experiences with the vocational education system, based on interviews with a representative sample of employers in South Carolina;

(5)   a report of students' perceptions of and experiences with the vocational education system, based on interviews with a representative sample of current and former public school students;

(6)   recommendations for how the vocational education system can best meet the training and employment needs of low achieving students who do not seek post-secondary education;

(7)   recommendations for how the programs of the vocational education system can be better coordinated with other state agencies concerned with education, training, and employment to best serve young people who do not seek post-secondary education;

(8)   report on South Carolina's labor needs between 1990 and 2000 which can be met by students who successfully complete programs provided by the vocational education system.

The House Education and Public Works Committee and the Senate Education Committee shall designate committee staff to serve as liaisons with the staff of the South Carolina Advisory Council on Vocational and Technical Education to provide advice about how the study can be designed, implemented, and reported so as to be most useful to the General Assembly. Components of the study must be issued serially, as completed. The South Carolina Advisory Council on Vocational and Technical Education is authorized to seek funding from private sources to facilitate the study, and to subcontract with appropriate public and private entities to conduct any of the various components of the study. The study must be completed no later than April, 1986. Reserved.

Section 59-53-1980.   The Governor shall appoint a committee to study all areas of career and technology training in South Carolina. The committee is composed of representatives of the business community, the General Assembly, and the various agencies involved in career and technology training. Based on the findings of the committee, the Governor shall make recommendations to the General Assembly related to a coordinated statewide program of career and technology training which addresses the following concerns:


Printed Page 4404 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

a.   duplication of services and people served.;

b.   need for a comprehensive assessment of future job opportunities in South Carolina and the relationships of those opportunities to the direction of future job training efforts.;

c.   Need for a unified plan to coordinate job training efforts.;

d.   Need for a standard management information system.;

e.   Insufficient emphasis on entrepreneur training and information and service occupations.;

f.   Narrow missions of Special Schools.;

g.   Training systems not prepared to handle federal cutbacks in funding.;

h.   Insufficient coordination with private employers to provide job training.;

i.   Insufficient coordination of training needs for special target groups.;

j.   Lack of coordination of illiteracy efforts with job training programs.; and

k.   Other barriers which prevent a coordinated, accessible, and efficient job training effort in South Carolina."
SECTION   ____.Section 59-18-1580 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 400 of 1998, is amended to read:

"Section 59-18-1580.   (A)   If recommendations approved by the State Board of Education are not satisfactorily implemented by the school district according to the time line developed by the State Board of Education, or if student performance has not made the expected progress and the school district is designated as unsatisfactory, the district superintendent and members of the board of trustees must shall appear before the State Board of Education to outline the reasons why a state of emergency should must not be declared in the district.

(B)   The state superintendent, with the approval of the State Board of Education, is granted authority to do any of the following:

(1)   furnish continuing advice and technical assistance in implementing the recommendations of the State Board of Education to include establishing and conducting a training program for the district board of trustees and the district superintendent to focus on roles and actions in support of increases in student achievement;

(2)   arbitrate personnel matters between the district board and district superintendent when the State Board of Education is informed that the district board is considering dismissal of the superintendent, and the parties agree to arbitration;


Printed Page 4405 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

(3)   recommend to the Governor that the office of superintendent be declared vacant. If the Governor declares the office vacant, the state superintendent may furnish an interim replacement until the vacancy is filled by the district board of trustees or until an election is held as provided by law to fill the vacancy if the superintendent who is replaced is elected to such office. District boards of trustees negotiating contracts for the superintendency shall include a provision that the contract is void should the Governor declare that office of superintendency vacant pursuant to this section. This contract provision does not apply to any existing contracts but to new contracts or renewal of contracts; and

(3)(4)   declare a state of emergency in the school district and assume management of the school district.

(C)   The district board of trustees may appoint at least two nonvoting members to the board from a pool nominated by the Education Oversight Committee and the State Department of Education. The appointed members shall have demonstrated high levels of knowledge, commitment, and public service, must be recruited and trained for service as appointed board members by the Education Oversight Committee and the State Department of Education, and shall represent the interests of the State Board of Education on the district board. Compensation for the nonvoting members must be paid by the State Board of Education in an amount equal to the compensation paid to the voting members of the district board."
SECTION   ____.Section 59-18-700 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 400 of 1998, is amended to read:

"Section 59-18-700.   The criteria governing the adoption of All instructional materials shall be revised by the State Board of Education to require that placed on the approved list of instructional materials and textbooks for use in the public schools of this State pursuant to State Board of Education regulations the content of such materials reflect shall contain the substance and level of performance outlined in the grade and subject specific educational academic standards adopted by the state board State Board of Education."
SECTION   ____.   Section 59-31-45 of the 1976 Code is repealed.
SECTION   ____.   Section 59-19-90(8) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(8)   Charge matriculation and incidental fees. Charge and collect matriculation and incidental fees from the pupils when allowed by any special act of the General Assembly students; however, regulations or


Printed Page 4406 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

policies adopted by the board regarding charges and collections must take into account the students' ability to pay and must hold the fee to a minimum reasonable amount. Fees may not be charged to students eligible for free lunches and must be reduced pro rata for students eligible for reduced price lunches;" /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. TOWNSEND explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

Reps. ALLISON, TOWNSEND, OTT and JENNINGS proposed the following Amendment No. 2 (Doc Name COUNCIL\GJK\AMEND\ 21389DW02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
/SECTION   ____.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 59-18-1515.   Notwithstanding any provisions of law, by April thirtieth of every year, each unsatisfactory and below average school visited by an external review team must publish the strategies to improve student performance as outlined in their revised school renewal plan in a local audited newspaper. For schools not visited by an external review team, this requirement is waived."
SECTION   ____.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 59-139-100.   Notwithstanding any provisions of law, by April thirtieth of every year, an annual district strategic plan or annual update, or both, and school renewal plan or annual update must be completed. The annual district programmatic report must be completed and a summary sent to parents and constituents." /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. ALLISON explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

Rep. LOFTIS proposed the following Amendment No. 3 (Doc Name COUNCIL\NBD\AMEND\11812AC02), which was tabled:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting lines 18 and 19 on page 464-13.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.


Printed Page 4407 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. LOFTIS explained the amendment.

Rep. TOWNSEND spoke against the amendment.
Rep. LOFTIS spoke in favor of the amendment.

Rep. TOWNSEND moved to table the amendment.

Rep. LOFTIS demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 46; Nays 41

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Bales                  Battle                 Bingham
Bowers                 Brown, G.              Brown, J.
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Cotty
Dantzler               Emory                  Freeman
Gilham                 Gourdine               Govan
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hosey
Jennings               Kennedy                Kirsh
Lee                    Littlejohn             Lloyd
Lourie                 Lucas                  Martin
McLeod                 Miller                 Neal, J.M.
Neilson                Ott                    Parks
Rivers                 Rodgers                Scott
Sheheen                Smith, D.C.            Smith, J.E.
Stille                 Townsend               Walker
Webb                   Weeks                  Wilder
Young, J.

Total--46

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allison                Cato                   Chellis
Coates                 Cooper                 Davenport
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Fleming                Frye                   Hamilton
Harrell                Haskins                Hinson
Keegan                 Kelley                 Koon
Leach                  Limehouse              Loftis
McGee                  Meacham-Richardson     Merrill
Perry                  Quinn                  Rhoad

Printed Page 4408 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rice                   Riser                  Scarborough
Simrill                Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.R.
Thompson               Tripp                  Trotter
Vaughn                 White                  Wilkins
Witherspoon            Young, A.

Total--41

So, the amendment was tabled.

Reps. BALES and QUINN proposed the following Amendment No. 4 (Doc Name AMENDMENTS\3073MM02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
/ SECTION __.   Section 59-104-20 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 289 of 2000, is further amended by adding at the end:

"Any student that, as a senior in high school, received a Palmetto Fellows Scholarship award but declined the scholarship may be eligible to reapply for the annual scholarship if he transfers to a South Carolina public senior institution of higher learning as defined in Section 59-103-5 after attending an out-of-state senior higher education institution if the following criteria are met:

(1)   a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale; and

(2)   a minimum of thirty credit hours earned each academic year after graduation from high school.

The annual award of these scholarship funds shall be based on the availability of funds after all eligible high school seniors and continuing Palmetto Fellows have been awarded a scholarship. The number of semesters or academic years a student attended an out-of-state institution are to be deducted from the number of semesters or academic years a student is eligible for the scholarship."
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. BALES explained the amendment.

Rep. QUINN spoke in favor of the amendment.

ACTING SPEAKER CATO IN CHAIR


Printed Page 4409 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Rep. SCOTT spoke in favor of the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

Pursuant to Rule 7.7 the Yeas and Nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 96; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Altman                 Bales
Barfield               Battle                 Bingham
Bowers                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Campsen                Carnell                Cato
Chellis                Clyburn                Coates
Cobb-Hunter            Cooper                 Cotty
Dantzler               Davenport              Delleney
Easterday              Edge                   Emory
Fleming                Freeman                Frye
Gilham                 Gourdine               Govan
Hamilton               Harrell                Harrison
Haskins                Hayes                  Hines, J.
Hinson                 Hosey                  Huggins
Jennings               Keegan                 Kelley
Kennedy                Kirsh                  Koon
Law                    Leach                  Limehouse
Littlejohn             Lourie                 Lucas
Mack                   Martin                 McCraw
McGee                  McLeod                 Meacham-Richardson
Merrill                Miller                 Moody-Lawrence
Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.             Neilson
Ott                    Owens                  Parks
Quinn                  Rice                   Riser
Rivers                 Rodgers                Sandifer
Scarborough            Scott                  Sheheen
Simrill                Smith, D.C.            Smith, G.M.
Smith, J.E.            Smith, J.R.            Stille
Thompson               Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   Weeks                  Whipper

Printed Page 4410 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

White                  Wilder                 Wilkins
Witherspoon            Young, A.              Young, J.

Total--96

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

H. 5312--CONTINUED

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 5312 (Word version) -- Reps. Loftis, Allen, Cato, F. N. Smith and Vaughn: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT PUBLIC FUNDS MAY BE USED TO OFFER COSMETOLOGY LICENSING PREPARATORY COURSES AT TWO PRIVATELY FUNDED AND ONE PUBLICLY FUNDED POST-SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN GREENVILLE COUNTY.

Rep. LOFTIS moved to continue the Bill, which was agreed to.

S. 1047--AMENDED AND ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 1047 (Word version) -- Senator Saleeby: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 61-6-1035 SO AS TO PERMIT THE SAMPLING OF WINES CONTAINING OVER SIXTEEN PERCENT BY VOLUME OF ALCOHOL, CORDIALS, AND OTHER DISTILLED SPIRITS SOLD IN A RETAIL ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR STORE UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

The Judiciary Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\GJK\AMEND\21403SD02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, in Section 61-6-1035 of the 1976 code, as contained in SECTION 1, by adding a new item (10) to read:

/   (10)   No retail alcoholic liquor store may offer more than one sampling per day. /


Printed Page 4411 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Amend further, as and if amended, by adding a new SECTION appropriately numbered to read:
/   SECTION   ___.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 61-6-1560.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a retail dealer, wholesaler, or producer may offer discounts on alcoholic liquors or nonalcoholic items through the use of premiums, coupons, or stamps redeemable by mail." /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. J. YOUNG explained the amendment.

Rep. KELLEY spoke against the amendment.
Rep. COATES spoke against the amendment.
Rep. J. YOUNG spoke in favor of the amendment.

Rep. KIRSH moved to continue the Bill.

Rep. J. YOUNG demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Yeas 30; Nays 59

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Campsen                Carnell                Clyburn
Coates                 Cooper                 Cotty
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Emory                  Frye                   Gourdine
Hamilton               Haskins                Keegan
Kelley                 Kirsh                  Leach
Loftis                 Lucas                  Meacham-Richardson
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Parks
Simrill                Stille                 Vaughn
Weeks                  White                  Witherspoon

Total--30

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allison                Bales                  Battle
Bingham                Bowers                 Breeland
Brown, G.              Brown, J.              Cato
Chellis                Dantzler               Fleming

Printed Page 4412 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Freeman                Gilham                 Harrison
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hinson
Hosey                  Jennings               Kennedy
Koon                   Law                    Limehouse
Littlejohn             Lourie                 Mack
McCraw                 McGee                  McLeod
Merrill                Miller                 Neal, J.H.
Ott                    Perry                  Quinn
Rhoad                  Rice                   Rivers
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scarborough
Scott                  Sheheen                Smith, D.C.
Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.E.            Smith, J.R.
Smith, W.D.            Snow                   Talley
Thompson               Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Webb                   Whipper
Wilkins                Young, J.

Total--59

So, the House refused to continue the Bill.

SPEAKER IN CHAIR

Rep. KELLEY spoke against the amendment.
Rep. EASTERDAY spoke against the amendment.

The amendment was then adopted.

Pursuant to Rule 7.7 the Yeas and Nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 55; Nays 37

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Bales                  Battle                 Bingham
Bowers                 Breeland               Brown, J.
Cato                   Chellis                Clyburn
Coates                 Cobb-Hunter            Dantzler
Edge                   Fleming                Freeman
Harrison               Hayes                  Hines, J.
Hinson                 Hosey                  Howard
Jennings               Kennedy                Lee

Printed Page 4413 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Limehouse              Lourie                 Mack
McCraw                 McGee                  McLeod
Meacham-Richardson     Merrill                Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Ott                    Perry
Rhoad                  Rivers                 Rodgers
Sandifer               Scarborough            Scott
Sheheen                Smith, G.M.            Smith, J.E.
Smith, W.D.            Snow                   Talley
Tripp                  Trotter                Webb
Whipper                Wilkins                Young, A.
Young, J.

Total--55

Those who voted in the negative are:

Campsen                Carnell                Cooper
Cotty                  Davenport              Delleney
Easterday              Emory                  Frye
Gilham                 Gourdine               Hamilton
Haskins                Keegan                 Kelley
Kirsh                  Koon                   Law
Leach                  Littlejohn             Loftis
Lucas                  Martin                 Neal, J.H.
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Parks
Rice                   Simrill                Smith, D.C.
Stille                 Thompson               Townsend
Vaughn                 Weeks                  White
Witherspoon

Total--37

So, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

RECURRENCE TO THE MORNING HOUR

Rep. WHITE moved that the House recur to the Morning Hour, which was agreed to.


Printed Page 4414 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on H. 4878, R. 373, Veto #4, by a vote of 30 to 12.

Veto #4. The Senate, page 227, Section 54A, Item "Other Operating Expenses General Funds $1,920,848."

(R373) H. 4878 -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING, JULY 1, 2002; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THE FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on H. 4878, R. 373, Veto #6, by a vote of 29 to 12.

Veto #6. Legislative Department, page 379, Section 54.23, "Legislative Carry Forward."

(R373) H. 4878 -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING, JULY 1, 2002; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE


Printed Page 4415 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THE FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on H. 4878, R. 373, Veto #7, by a vote of 30 to 12.

Veto #7. Legislative Department, page 380, Section 54.41, "General Assembly Exemption."

(R373) H. 4878 -- Ways and Means Committee: AN ACT TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING, JULY 1, 2002; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THE FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 3485:

H. 3485 (Word version) -- Reps. Phillips, Littlejohn, McCraw and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 22, CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56, CODE OF


Printed Page 4416 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE PLATES TO MEMBERS OF MUNICIPAL COUNCILS, COUNTY COUNCILS, AND COUNTY CORONERS BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY FOR PRIVATE PASSENGER MOTOR VEHICLES OWNED BY THEM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISSUE SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES TO MAYORS.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 4771:

H. 4771 (Word version) -- Reps. Keegan, Knotts, Hosey, Whipper, Clyburn, Frye, Gourdine, J. Hines, Kelley, Leach, Littlejohn and Whatley: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED CONCERNING THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF ARCHITECTS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "EMERITUS ARCHITECT"; TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-230, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR LICENSURE AS AN ARCHITECT, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CANADIAN ARCHITECTURAL CERTIFICATION BOARD AS AN ACCREDITING BODY OF SCHOOLS OR PROGRAMS FOR ARCHITECTS; TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-250, RELATING TO LICENSE RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXEMPT EMERITUS ARCHITECTS FROM CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS UNLESS RETURNING TO ACTIVE PRACTICE; TO ADD SECTION 40-3-255 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL EXAMINERS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION AND RESEARCH FUND, TO ALLOCATE REVENUE FROM RENEWAL


Printed Page 4417 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

FEES TO THE FUND, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE FUND; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-290, RELATING TO THOSE PERSONS AND ACTIVITIES EXEMPT FROM LICENSURE AND REGULATION AS AN ARCHITECT, SO AS TO REVISE A BUILDING CODE REFERENCE.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

H. 3789--COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE APPOINTED

The following was received from the Senate:

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

Columbia, S.C., June 5, 2002
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it nonconcurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 3789:

H. 3789 (Word version) -- Reps. Fleming, Harrison, Quinn, J. Young, Altman, Wilkins, Riser, Sandifer, Scott, Weeks and A. Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-5-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL MEMBERS OF COUNTY BOARDS OF REGISTRATION, COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSIONS, AND COMBINED COUNTY BOARDS OF REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS COMMISSIONS MUST BE APPOINTED FOR STAGGERED TERMS OF FOUR YEARS AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE INITIAL APPOINTMENT OF THESE MEMBERS TO ENSURE THE STAGGERING OF TERMS; TO AMEND CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN ELECTION TO BE CONDUCTED IN EVERY EVEN AND ODD-NUMBERED YEAR TO FILL SEATS OF ALL ELECTED BODIES WHOSE ELECTIONS TO FILL THOSE SEATS ARE PROVIDED BY LAW AT A TIME OTHER THAN AT THE TIME OF THE GENERAL ELECTION AND REQUIRE GOVERNING BODIES AND COUNTIES CONDUCTING A REFERENDUM TO AUTHORIZE GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT TO CONDUCT THE REFERENDUM AT THE TIME OF THE GENERAL ELECTION OR ON THE FIRST TUESDAY FOLLOWING THE


Printed Page 4418 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

FIRST MONDAY IN NOVEMBER IN AN ODD-NUMBERED YEAR; BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-1115 SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR HAND COUNTS IF A VOTING MACHINE MALFUNCTIONS AND TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR LOCAL COMMISSIONS TO FOLLOW WHEN HAND COUNTS ARE CONDUCTED; BY ADDING SECTION 7-17-75 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT WHEN A LOSING CANDIDATE PROTESTS AN ELECTION ON ANY GROUNDS, OTHER THAN ON THE DISPARITY OF THE NUMBER OF BALLOTS CAST, THAT CANDIDATE MUST PAY ALL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROTEST INCLUDING COSTS INCURRED BY THE STATE OR COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION TO THE WINNING CANDIDATE IF THE BOARD HEARING THE PROTEST DETERMINES THAT THE PROTEST IS FRIVOLOUS AND WITHOUT MERIT; BY ADDING SECTION 7-15-335 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEFORE EACH ELECTION, THE COUNTY BOARD OF REGISTRATION OR ITS DESIGNEE SHALL OFFER QUALIFIED RESIDENTS OF NURSING HOMES AND ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES THE OPPORTUNITY TO APPLY FOR ABSENTEE BALLOTS; BY ADDING SECTION 7-15-470 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A COUNTY BOARD OF REGISTRATION TO USE OTHER MEANS OF VOTING ABSENTEE INSTEAD OF BY PAPER BALLOT IF CERTIFIED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AND TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES TO EFFECTUATE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-10, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL OF MEMBERS OF COUNTY BOARDS OF REGISTRATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO NOTIFY THE RESPECTIVE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS, OTHER APPOINTING AUTHORITIES, AND THE GOVERNOR OF THE PROGRESS EACH COUNTY REGISTRATION BOARD MEMBER HAS MADE TOWARD COMPLETION OF THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM REQUIRED BY THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-35, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A COMBINED ELECTION AND REGISTRATION COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO NOTIFY THE RESPECTIVE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS, OTHER APPOINTING AUTHORITIES, AND THE GOVERNOR OF THE

Printed Page 4419 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

PROGRESS EACH COMBINED COUNTY REGISTRATION BOARD AND ELECTION COMMISSION MEMBER HAS MADE TOWARD COMPLETION OF THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM REQUIRED BY THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF ELECTION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO NOTIFY THE RESPECTIVE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS, OTHER APPOINTING AUTHORITIES, AND THE GOVERNOR OF THE PROGRESS EACH COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION MEMBER HAS MADE TOWARD COMPLETION OF THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM REQUIRED BY THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-190, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CONDUCTING A SPECIAL ELECTION TO FILL A VACANCY IN OFFICE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A SPECIAL ELECTION IS SCHEDULED TO BE HELD NO MORE THAN FIFTEEN DAYS AFTER A GENERAL ELECTION, THE SPECIAL ELECTION MUST BE HELD ON THE SAME DAY AS THE GENERAL ELECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-860, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT, QUALIFICATIONS, IDENTIFICATION, AND CONDUCT OF POLL WATCHERS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE WATCHER TO BE A QUALIFIED VOTER OF THE STATE RATHER THAN THE COUNTY WHERE HE IS TO WATCH; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1120, RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF IMPROPERLY MARKED BALLOTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A HAND COUNT IS CONDUCTED PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 7-13-1115, THE INTENT OF THE VOTER MUST BE CLEAR FROM THE FACE OF THE BALLOT PURSUANT TO POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ESTABLISHED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1340, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF VOTE RECORDERS, SO AS TO ADD REFERENCES TO OPTICAL SCAN VOTING DEVICES AND DELETE PROVISIONS REQUIRING SEPARATE VOTES FOR PRESIDENT; TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-330, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TIME OF APPLICATION FOR AN ABSENTEE BALLOT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY FORM FOR REQUESTING AN APPLICATION FOR AN ABSENTEE BALLOT MUST BE APPROVED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION PRIOR TO USE; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO

Printed Page 4420 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

REPRESENTS HIMSELF AS AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE FOR A QUALIFIED ELECTOR AND WHO SIGNS AN OATH IN VIOLATION OF SECTION 7-25-190 IS SUBJECT TO THE PENALTIES FOR THAT OFFENSE.

Very respectfully,
President

On motion of Rep. HARRISON, the House insisted upon its amendments.

Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. FLEMING, ALTMAN and SCOTT to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

S. 379--RECALLED FROM COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

On motion of Rep. WITHERSPOON, with unanimous consent, the following Bill was ordered recalled from the Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs:

S. 379 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-15, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA MARINE RESOURCES ACT OF 2000, BY ADDING DEFINITIONS OF "SKIM-BOW NET", AND "STRETCH"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-330, RELATING TO RECREATIONAL FISHING, EQUIPMENT, AND COMMERCIAL MINNOW TRAPS, BY ADDING A PROVISION TO PROVIDE FOR A PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1510, RELATING TO SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR SHAD AND HERRING, TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF SKIM-BOW NETS SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SKIM-BOW NETS MUST BE USED FROM HIGH LAND OR STRUCTURES AFFIXED TO HIGH LAND WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED DEVICES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-15, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA MARINE RESOURCES ACT OF 2000, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE "ANADROMOUS", "DREDGE", "HERRING", "PEELER TRAP", "STRIKER", AND "TRAWLING"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-65, RELATING TO SEIZURE AND DISPOSITION OF


Printed Page 4421 . . . . . Wednesday, June 5, 2002

CONTRABAND, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERISHABLE ITEMS SEIZED THE SALE OF WHICH IS NOT ILLEGAL PER SE MAY BE DONATED TO A NON-PROFIT ENTITY OR DESTROYED IN THE DISCRETION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, THAT PERISHABLE ITEMS SEIZED THE SALE OF WHICH IS ILLEGAL ONLY BECAUSE OF THE PLACE, MANNER, OR METHOD BY WHICH IT WAS SEIZED MUST BE SOLD, AND TO PROVIDE FOR RETENTION OF THE PROCEEDS OF PERISHABLE ITEMS SOLD UNTIL FINAL ADJUDICATION OF THE CASE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-70, RELATING TO THE SALE OF CONFISCATED DEVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MUST SELL CONFISCATED DEVISES NOT USED OR DESTROYED BY THE DEPARTMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-300, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL SALTWATER FISHING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR RESIDENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RESIDENT MUST ALSO OBTAIN THE LICENSE FOR THE PRIVILEGE OF SELLING, EXCHANGING, OR BARTERING FISH OR PRODUCTS TAKEN OR LANDED BY THE RESIDENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-310, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL SALTWATER FISHING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR NONRESIDENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A NONRESIDENT MUST ALSO OBTAIN THE LICENSE FOR THE PRIVILEGE OF SELLING, EXCHANGING, OR BARTERING FISH OR PRODUCTS TAKEN OR LANDED BY THE RESIDENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-325, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT LICENSES, FEES, AND THE TAGGING OF EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO PERSON MAY HOLD OR APPLY FOR A SEPARATE LICENSE RESULTING IN AVOIDANCE OF LICENSE FEE DIFFERENTIALS, AND THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY REQUIRE AN OWNER TO AFFIX IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS AND TAGS TO COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-335, CHANNEL NET LICENSES AND RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO REGULATE PREFERENCES FOR LICENSES, PROVIDE THAT APPLICANTS MUST BE SIXTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND A RESIDENT OF THIS STATE, AND THAT ONLY ONE CHANNEL NET LICENSE MAY BE ISSUED TO A PERSON; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-350, RELATING TO DISPLAY OF LICENSES, PERMITS, AND VESSEL'S IDENTIFICATION DECALS, SO AS TO REQUIRE DISPLAY OF IDENTIFICATION DECALS ON THE PORT AND STARBOARD

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SIDES OF A VESSEL; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-360, RELATING TO WHOLESALE SEAFOOD DEALERS AND LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON OR ENTITY WHO BUYS, HANDLES, OR SELLS LIVE OR FRESH SALTWATER FISH OR SALTWATER FISH PRODUCTS LANDED IN THIS STATE, REGARDLESS OF WHERE TAKEN, MUST OBTAIN A WHOLESALE SEAFOOD DEALER LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-370, RELATING TO PURCHASE OR REMOVAL OF SALTWATER FISHERY PRODUCTS NOT HANDLED BY A LICENSED WHOLESALE SEAFOOD DEALER FROM THIS STATE FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO PERSONS RECEIVING LIVE BAIT FROM A LICENSED LIVE BAIT DEALER OR TO PERSONS OR ENTITIES RECEIVING CULTURED PRODUCTS FROM PERSONS THAT SOLELY PRODUCE FISH OR FISHERY PRODUCTS REARED AS OFFSPRING FROM BROOD STOCK IN CAPTIVITY; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-505, RELATING TO NET USE REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO HAUL SEINE MAY BE SET WITHIN FIVE HUNDRED YARDS OF ANY PUBLIC FISHING PIER; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-510, RELATING TO CHANNEL NETS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE NUMBER OF BUOYS REQUIRED TO MARK CHANNEL NETS FROM ONE TO THREE AND PROVIDE FOR THEIR LOCATION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN SET NO CHANNEL NET MAY BE UNATTENDED FOR MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-515, RELATING TO CHANNEL NETS AND TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICES MUST CONFORM TO SPECIFICATIONS OF THE NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE FOR SOFT TURTLE EXCLUSION DEVICES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-520, RELATING TO CHANNEL NET VIOLATIONS, FORFEITURE OF LICENSES, AND SEIZURE OF EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SEIZURE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS DO NOT APPLY TO REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO DISTANCES FROM THE CENTERLINE OF MARKED NAVIGATION CHANNELS IF THE DISTANCE IS GREATER THAN THREE HUNDRED FEET; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-545, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL CRAB TRAPS AND ESCAPE VENT REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE NUMBER, SIZE, AND LOCATION OF CIRCULAR ESCAPE

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VENTS IN COMMERCIAL CRAB TRAPS, AND TO PROVIDE AN EXEMPTION FOR PEELER TRAPS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-550, RELATING TO TRAP BUOY SIZES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MINNOW TRAPS USED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES MUST UTILIZE FLOATS NO SMALLER THAN FIVE INCHES MARKED WITH THE OPERATOR'S NAME AND BAIT DEALER LICENSE NUMBER, AND THAT NO PERSON MAY ACQUIRE MORE THAN ONE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER REQUIRED FOR EACH LICENSED COMMERCIAL SALTWATER FISHERMAN LICENSED TO FISH TRAPS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-715, RELATING TO TRAWLING RESTRICTION AREAS WITHIN THE GENERAL TRAWLING ZONE, SO AS TO STRIKE THE WORD "BECOMING"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-765, RELATING TO USE OF TURTLE EXCLUDER DEVICES, SO AS TO STRIKE A PROVISION THAT CERTAIN TRAWL NETS ARE CONTRABAND; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-960, RELATING TO RECREATIONAL SHELLFISH BOTTOM HARVESTS, SO AS TO STRIKE A PROVISION THAT NO PERSON MAY GATHER MORE THAN ONE PERSONAL LIMIT OF SHELLFISH PER DAY ON MORE THAN TWO CALENDAR DAYS PER ANY SEVEN DAY PERIOD AND INSERT A PROVISION THAT NO PERSON MAY HARVEST SHELLFISH RECREATIONALLY ON MORE THAN TWO CALENDAR DAYS PER ANY SEVEN DAY PERIOD; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-965, RELATING TO TAKING SHELLFISH FROM BOTTOMS DESIGNATED FOR COMMERCIAL HARVEST AND INDIVIDUAL HARVESTER PERMITS, SO AS TO LIMIT THE APPLICATION OF THE SECTION TO BOTTOMS OR WATERS UNDER PERMIT FOR SHELLFISH CULTURE OR MARICULTURE, EXCLUDE COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN FROM THE APPLICATION OF THE SECTION, AND TO COMBINE AND EXPAND THE PROVISIONS FOR PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1505, RELATING TO PROMULGATION OF REGULATIONS AS TO ZONES, CATCH LIMITS, AND RELATED MATTERS, SO AS TO STRIKE THE LANGUAGE MAKING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF LAW EFFECTIVE UNTIL THE PROVISIONS ARE PROMULGATED REGULATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1510, RELATING TO SPECIAL PROVISIONS AS TO SHAD AND HERRING, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF SKIM-BOW NETS WITHIN THE SPECIAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO SHAD AND HERRING; TO AMEND

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SECTION 50-5-1540, RELATING TO NET PLACEMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO NET MAY BE SET WITHIN SIX HUNDRED FEET OF ANY GILL NET PREVIOUSLY SET, OR DRIFTED WITHIN SIX HUNDRED FEET OF ANOTHER DRIFTING NET; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1560, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR OFFENSES FOR WHICH NO PENALTY HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED, SO AS TO STRIKE CERTAIN OBSOLETE LANGUAGE FROM THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1915, RELATING TO CHARTER FISHING VESSEL AND PUBLIC PIER LOGS, SO AS TO STRIKE "BOAT" AND INSERT "FISHING VESSEL", REVISE CERTAIN PENALTY PROVISIONS TO INCLUDE A TERM OF IMPRISONMENT, AND PROHIBIT ISSUING CHARTER FISHING VESSEL LICENSES UNTIL THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION ARE MET; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2505, RELATING TO POINT SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION, SO AS TO DELETE A DUPLICATE PROVISION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2510, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF SALTWATER PRIVILEGES FOR ACCUMULATION OF POINTS, SO AS TO CONFORM LANGUAGE BY STRIKING "BOAT" AND INSERTING "FISHING VESSEL"; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2515, RELATING TO NOTICE AND REVIEW OF SUSPENSION OF SALTWATER PRIVILEGES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT REVIEW OF SUSPENSION OF SALTWATER PRIVILEGES MUST BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2520, RELATING TO APPEALS, SO AS TO CHANGE A REFERENCE TO THE APPEAL AUTHORITY FROM ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE CODE TO ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE CODE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2725, RELATING TO SHARK CATCH LIMITS, SO AS TO DELETE AN OBSOLETE REFERENCE TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SHARKS OF THE ATLANTIC OCEAN; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-2730, RELATING TO FEDERAL FISHING REGULATIONS BEING THE LAW OF THE STATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE SALES RESTRICTIONS WITHIN THE SECTION AND PROVIDE THAT THE FEDERAL REGULATIONS APPLY STATEWIDE INCLUDING IN STATE WATERS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-21-175, RELATING TO WATERCRAFT BEING REQUIRED TO HEAVE TO AND PERMIT BOARDING BY LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE PASSENGERS AMONG THOSE

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WHO MAY BE GUILTY OF VIOLATING THE SECTION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE OPERATOR, CREW, AND PASSENGERS OF ANY WATERCRAFT OPERATING IN STATE WATERS ARE REQUIRED TO COOPERATE WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS OR U. S. COAST GUARD PERSONNEL; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 50-5-120 AND 50-5-2735 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Rep. J. YOUNG moved that the House do now adjourn, which was agreed to.

RETURNED WITH CONCURRENCE

The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:

H. 5384 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, Huggins, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE, APPRECIATE, AND REMEMBER WITH DIGNITY AND RESPECT THE LIFE AND GOOD WORKS OF JAMES F. "JIM" HENDRIX, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION, TO CONVEY THAT THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA REALIZE TO THE FULLEST EXTENT THE LOSS SUSTAINED BY HIS FAMILY AND COUNTLESS FRIENDS, AND TO OFFER THIS HEARTFELT TESTIMONY OF TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY OF OUR BELOVED FRIEND.


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H. 5392 (Word version) -- Reps. J. M. Neal and Emory: A HOUSE RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE CONGRATULATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO MR. SEAN MICAH CAUTHEN OF KERSHAW IN LANCASTER COUNTY ON HIS EARNING THE EAGLE SCOUT AWARD TO BE PRESENTED IN CEREMONIES AT THE SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH IN KERSHAW.

H. 5393 (Word version) -- Reps. Phillips, McCraw and Littlejohn: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE COACHES AND PLAYERS OF THE NATIONALLY RANKED MEN'S VARSITY LACROSSE TEAM OF LIMESTONE COLLEGE OF GAFFNEY, FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING LACROSSE PROGRAM, TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON WINNING THE NCAA DIVISION II MEN'S NATIONAL LACROSSE CHAMPIONSHIP FOR 2002, THEIR SECOND NATIONAL LACROSSE CHAMPIONSHIP IN THREE YEARS, AND TO WISH THEM EVERY SUCCESS IN ALL OF THEIR FUTURE ACADEMIC AND ATHLETIC ENDEAVORS.

H. 5394 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, J. Hines, Lucas, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE DEEP APPRECIATION AND SINCERE GRATITUDE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE DARLINGTON COUNTY EMERGENCY MEDICAL


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SERVICES FOR THEIR HEROIC EFFORTS AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE IN PROVIDING LIFE-SAVING ASSISTANCE TO REPRESENTATIVE DENNY NEILSON AT HER DEVASTATING ACCIDENT ON FEBRUARY 8, 2001.

H. 5395 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, G. Brown, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST GRATITUDE AND SINCERE APPRECIATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE BISHOPVILLE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FOR THEIR PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE IN ADMINISTERING LIFE-SAVING ASSISTANCE TO REPRESENTATIVE DENNY NEILSON AT HER DEVASTATING ACCIDENT ON FEBRUARY 8, 2001.

H. 5396 (Word version) -- Rep. Neilson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING ROLAND "ROCKY" GANNON FOR BEING SELECTED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA AVIATION ASSOCIATION AS THE 2002 AVIATOR OF THE YEAR AND CONGRATULATING HIM ON BEING INDUCTED INTO THE SOUTH CAROLINA AVIATION HALL OF FAME.

H. 5397 (Word version) -- Reps. Jennings, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-


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Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND AND THANK THE HONORABLE MARION P. CARNELL OF WARE SHOALS FOR HIS NEARLY FORTY YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE AS A MEMBER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND TO WISH HIM WELL IN ALL OF HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

H. 5398 (Word version) -- Reps. Askins, Scarborough, Allen, Allison, Altman, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE FIREFIGHTERS OF NEW YORK CITY'S ENGINE COMPANY 53 AND LADDER COMPANY 43 FOR THEIR COURAGEOUS EFFORTS DURING THE


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TERRORIST ATTACKS OF SEPTEMBER 11 AND TO THANK THEM FOR THE HOSPITALITY THEY HAVE SHOWN TO OFFICIALS OF THE PALMETTO STATE.

H. 5402 (Word version) -- Rep. Harrison: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND COLONEL DAVID H. "DAVE" BRUNJES FOR HIS NEARLY THIRTY YEARS OF OUTSTANDING AND DEDICATED SERVICE AS A COMMISSIONED OFFICER IN BOTH THE UNITED STATES ARMY AND THE UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE, AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM FOR HIS SUCCESSFUL TENURE AS COMMANDER OF THE 12TH LEGAL SUPPORT ORGANIZATION, FORT JACKSON, SOUTH CAROLINA.

MOTION NOTED

Rep. COATES moved to reconsider the vote whereby S. 1047 (Word version), as amended, was given a second reading and the motion was noted.

ADJOURNMENT

At 5:30 p.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. VAUGHN, adjourned in memory of Doug Brister of Greenville, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.

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