South Carolina General Assembly
116th Session, 2005-2006
Journal of the Senate

Wednesday, May 17, 2006
(Statewide Session)


Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by Senator ALEXANDER as follows:

Let us hear the words as found in Exodus 15:2:

The Lord is my strength and my song. He is my God -- my Father's God and I will exalt Him.

Let us pray.

Almighty God, we give You thanks for all Your blessings of life and thank You for being our strength and for walking with us every step of our path -- our help in ages past and our hope for the future. Bless us all this day right where we are. As your servants, we give You the praise, glory and honor.
Amen.

The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.

Doctor of the Day

Senator HUTTO introduced Dr. Gary Delaney of Orangeburg, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence

At 2:05 P.M., Senator WILLIAMS requested a leave of absence until 5:00 P.M.

Leave of Absence

At 4:30 P.M., Senator SCOTT requested a leave of absence until 7:30 P.M.

Motion to Ratify Adopted

At 2:38 P.M., Senator McCONNELL asked unanimous consent to make a motion to invite the House of Representatives to attend the Senate Chamber for the purpose of ratifying Acts at 11:30 A.M. on Thursday, May 25, 2006.

There was no objection and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 1426 (Word version) -- Senators Ritchie, Cleary and Ford: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE NONLEGISLATIVE MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIAL MERIT SELECTION COMMISSION, THE COMMISSION STAFF, AND THE MEMBERS OF THE CITIZENS COMMITTEES ON JUDICIAL QUALIFICATIONS ON THE TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF HISTORIC LEGISLATION REFORMING THE JUDICIAL SELECTION PROCESS FOR THE EXEMPLARY SERVICE THEY PERFORM IN EVALUATING THE QUALIFICATIONS AND CHARACTER OF CANDIDATES FOR JUDICIAL OFFICE IN THE STATE.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 1427 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 4-11-290, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DISSOLUTION OF SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS, SO AS TO ALLOW A DISTRICT TO BE DISSOLVED IF THE DISTRICT HAS OUTSTANDING INDEBTEDNESS PAYABLE FROM REVENUES DERIVED FROM THE PROVISION OF ONE OR MORE GOVERNMENTAL SERVICES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE METHOD BY WHICH A DISTRICT WITH OUTSTANDING INDEBTEDNESS MAY BE DISSOLVED.
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Read the first time and, on motion of Senator MATTHEWS, with unanimous consent, S. 1427 was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1427--Ordered to a Second and Third Reading

On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, with unanimous consent, S. 1427 was ordered to receive a second and third reading on the next two consecutive legislative days.

S. 1428 (Word version) -- Senator Lourie: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR VIRGINIA LACY OF COLUMBIA FOR HER OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE EDUCATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA'S YOUTH AND TO WISH HER THE VERY BEST UPON HER RETIREMENT.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1429 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPON THE DEATH OF HENRY CLAY BERRY OF ORANGEBURG COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1430 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF LILLIE RUTH WARREN OWENS AND TO EXTEND TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1431 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson, Knotts, Ford, McGill, Scott and O'Dell: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 18 TO CHAPTER 1, TITLE 1, SO AS TO REQUIRE A PERSON TO HAVE A FOUR-YEAR DEGREE FROM AN ACCREDITED COLLEGE OR INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING TO HOLD OFFICE AS GOVERNOR, LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR, SECRETARY OF STATE, ATTORNEY GENERAL, TREASURER, SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION, COMPTROLLER GENERAL, COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE, OR ADJUTANT GENERAL.
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Senator JACKSON spoke on the Bill.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 5159 (Word version) -- Reps. Scott, Agnew, Allen, Altman, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clark, Clemmons, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Emory, Frye, Funderburk, Govan, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kennedy, Kirsh, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Norman, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rhoad, Rice, Rivers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Simrill, Sinclair, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Townsend, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Witherspoon and Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE RIDGE VIEW HIGH SCHOOL "BLAZERS" TRACK AND FIELD TEAM OF RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 ON ITS AAAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE AND TO HONOR ITS ATHLETES AND THEIR COACHES ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 5160 (Word version) -- Rep. Huggins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPON THE PASSING OF MRS. JOAN CAROLYN HIGHTOWER LEWIS, AND TO OFFER HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 5161 (Word version) -- Rep. Agnew: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR LUKE CHRISTIE OF DUE WEST, SOUTH CAROLINA, WHO HAS BEEN NAMED THE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION'S 2006 NATIONAL GOODWILL AMBASSADOR AND TO WISH HIM AND HIS FAMILY ALL THE BEST AS THEY TRAVEL THE COUNTRY SPREADING THE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION'S MESSAGE OF HOPE AND COMPASSION.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 5162 (Word version) -- Reps. Govan, Rivers, Bowers, Agnew, Allen, Altman, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, Brady, Branham, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clark, Clemmons, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Emory, Frye, Funderburk, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kennedy, Kirsh, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Norman, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rhoad, Rice, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Simrill, Sinclair, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Townsend, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Witherspoon and Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER-4 FREDERICK JENKINS FOR TWENTY-SEVEN YEARS OF HEROIC SERVICE IN THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS AND TO HONOR HIM ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT FOR PROUDLY DEFENDING HIS COUNTRY IN TIME OF NEED.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 5163 (Word version) -- Reps. McGee, Branham, Coates, J. Hines, M. Hines, Agnew, Allen, Altman, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Brady, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clark, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Emory, Frye, Funderburk, Govan, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kennedy, Kirsh, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, Martin, McCraw, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Norman, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rhoad, Rice, Rivers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Simrill, Sinclair, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Townsend, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Witherspoon and Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO OFFER THE WARMEST CONGRATULATIONS TO THE HONORABLE AND MRS. BAXTER HICKS HARWELL, JR., OF FLORENCE COUNTY ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR FIFTIETH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY ON JUNE 9, 2006, AND TO EXTEND TO THEM BEST WISHES FOR CONTINUED HAPPINESS IN THE YEARS TO COME.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 5164 (Word version) -- Reps. Ballentine, Agnew, Allen, Altman, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Bales, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clark, Clemmons, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Emory, Frye, Funderburk, Govan, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kennedy, Kirsh, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Norman, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rhoad, Rice, Rivers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Simrill, Sinclair, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Townsend, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Witherspoon and Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MAJOR ROBERT BENI STREET II, OF IRMO WHO WAS AWARDED THE BRONZE STAR FOR EXCEPTIONALLY MERITORIOUS SERVICE DURING HIS SERVICE IN IRAQ.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 1030 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, McConnell, Martin, Peeler, Bryant, Mescher, Grooms, Hayes, Ryberg, Richardson, Fair, Leatherman, Alexander, Scott, Gregory, Thomas, Courson, O'Dell, Ritchie, Verdin, Leventis and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 1 TO TITLE 28 SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS PROTECTION ACT; TO AMEND SECTIONS 28-2-60, AND 28-2-210, RELATING TO EMINENT DOMAIN BY SUBSTITUTING "PUBLIC USE" FOR "PUBLIC PURPOSE"; TO AMEND SECTION 28-11-30, RELATING TO ACQUISITIONS OF REAL PROPERTY BY STATES AND POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "PUBLIC BODY" FOR "ENTITY"; TO AMEND SECTION 4-9-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A COUNTY'S POWERS UNDER THE ALTERNATE FORMS OF GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO REQUIRE A COUNTY TO ADHERE TO STATEWIDE STANDARDS OF EXERCISING EMINENT DOMAIN AND DELETE PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE USE OF EMINENT DOMAIN TO UNDERTAKE AND CARRY OUT CLEARANCE AND REDEVELOPMENT OF BLIGHTED OR SLUM PROPERTY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 5-7-50, RELATING TO A MUNICIPALITY'S POWER OF EMINENT DOMAIN, SO AS TO REQUIRE A MUNICIPALITY TO ADHERE TO STATEWIDE STANDARDS OF EXERCISING EMINENT DOMAIN AND DELETE PROVISIONS CONCERNING USE OF EMINENT DOMAIN TO UNDERTAKE AND CARRY OUT CLEARANCE AND REDEVELOPMENT OF BLIGHTED OR SLUM PROPERTY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

S. 1030--Co-Sponsor Added

On motion of Senator ELLIOTT, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator ELLIOTT was added as a co-sponsor of S. 1030.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

S. 1322 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY THAT POSTPONED IMPLEMENTATION OF A COUNTYWIDE ASSESSMENT AND EQUALIZATION PLAN, CONDUCTED IN 2004, MAY NOT IMPLEMENT THE VALUES UNTIL TAX YEAR 2007, UNLESS THE COUNTY COUNCIL ADOPTS AN ORDINANCE AFFIRMATIVELY IMPLEMENTING THE VALUES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3051 (Word version) -- Reps. Sinclair, Harrison, Mahaffey and Umphlett: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 39-15-1190, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL USE OF COUNTERFEIT MARKS, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE A "COUNTERFEIT MARK", TO ESTABLISH FELONIES FOR THE USE OF, TRAFFICKING IN, AND PRODUCTION OF A COUNTERFEIT MARK, TO PROVIDE FOR SEIZURE AND SALE OF ITEMS IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF A COUNTERFEIT MARK, AND TO PROVIDE FOR INVESTIGATORY POWERS OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3621 (Word version) -- Reps. Altman, Ceips, Limehouse, Scarborough, Scott and Young: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 7, ARTICLE XVII OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION ON LOTTERIES AND THE EXCEPTIONS TO THIS PROHIBITION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RAFFLE CONDUCTED NOT MORE THAN FOUR TIMES IN A CALENDAR YEAR BY A CHARITABLE, RELIGIOUS, COMMUNITY-SERVICE, EDUCATION-RELATED, OR FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION EXEMPT FROM FEDERAL INCOME TAXATION IN WHICH ALL RAFFLE PROCEEDS EXCEPT FOR THE COSTS OF PRIZES AND THE COSTS OF PRINTING TICKETS ARE USED EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE ORGANIZATION'S TAX EXEMPT PURPOSES IS NOT A LOTTERY PROHIBITED BY THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3773 (Word version) -- Reps. Vick, W.D. Smith, Littlejohn, Agnew, Ballentine, Haley, Lucas, Ott, Hardwick, Witherspoon, Cobb-Hunter and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT FROM SALES TAX THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES OR SALES PRICE OF GOLD, SILVER, AND PLATINUM BULLION, COINS, AND CURRENCY AND TO REQUIRE THE RETAILER TO MAINTAIN PROPER DOCUMENTATION AS REQUIRED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE FOR EACH EXEMPT SALE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4307 (Word version) -- Rep. Stewart: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-2645, SO AS TO INCORPORATE BY REFERENCE FOR PROPERTY TAX PURPOSES THE DEFINITION OF PRIVATE PASSENGER MOTOR VEHICLE USED IN THE MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSING AND REGISTRATION LAW, INCREASE THE WEIGHT LIMIT FOR PICKUP TRUCKS FOR PURPOSES OF THIS DEFINITION, AND INCLUDE MOTORCYCLES WITHIN THIS INCORPORATED DEFINITION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4312 (Word version) -- Reps. Merrill, Bailey, Altman, Coates, Brady, Mahaffey, Funderburk, Ballentine, J.E. Smith and Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3377 SO AS TO ALLOW A STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT EQUAL TO TWENTY PERCENT OF THE NEW QUALIFIED HYBRID MOTOR VEHICLE CREDIT ALLOWED AGAINST A TAXPAYER'S FEDERAL INCOME TAX LIABILITY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4316 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Clark, Bailey, Hinson, Harrison, Altman, G.R. Smith, Cotty, Whipper, Taylor, Kirsh, M.A. Pitts, Coates, G.M. Smith, Moody-Lawrence, Toole, Brady, Littlejohn, Sandifer, Mahaffey, McLeod, Funderburk, R. Brown, Haley, Owens, Simrill, Neilson and Bales: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 39-5-145, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PRICE GOUGING DURING A DECLARED STATE OF EMERGENCY OR DISASTER, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE ACTS ALSO UPON AN OUT-OF-STATE DECLARATION OF A STATE OF EMERGENCY OR DISASTER RESULTING IN ABNORMAL DISRUPTION OF THE MARKET IN CERTAIN COMMODITIES WHEN THIS STATE IS AFFECTED.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MOORE from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4404 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 TO CHAPTER 31, TITLE 5 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SAFETY NET PROGRAMS AND POLICIES FOR CERTAIN ELECTRIC AND NATURAL GAS CUSTOMERS TO ENSURE THAT THEIR UTILITY SERVICES ARE PROTECTED FROM TERMINATION DURING EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS AND PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC UTILITY MAY DISCONNECT A SPECIAL NEEDS CONSUMER WHEN DIRECTED BY FIRE OR LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL IN AN EMERGENCY; BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 49, TITLE 33 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SAFETY NET PROGRAMS AND POLICIES FOR CERTAIN ELECTRIC CUSTOMERS TO ENSURE THAT THEIR UTILITY SERVICES ARE PROTECTED FROM TERMINATION DURING EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS AND PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC UTILITY MAY DISCONNECT A SPECIAL NEEDS CONSUMER WHEN DIRECTED BY FIRE OR LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL IN AN EMERGENCY; BY ADDING ARTICLE 19 TO CHAPTER 27, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SAFETY NET PROGRAMS AND POLICIES FOR CERTAIN ELECTRIC AND NATURAL GAS CUSTOMERS TO ENSURE THAT THEIR UTILITY SERVICES ARE PROTECTED FROM TERMINATION DURING EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS AND PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC UTILITY MAY DISCONNECT A SPECIAL NEEDS CONSUMER WHEN DIRECTED BY FIRE OR LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL IN AN EMERGENCY; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 31, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SAFETY NET PROGRAMS AND POLICIES FOR CERTAIN ELECTRIC CUSTOMERS TO ENSURE THAT THEIR UTILITY SERVICES ARE PROTECTED FROM TERMINATION DURING EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS AND PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC UTILITY MAY DISCONNECT A SPECIAL NEEDS CONSUMER WHEN DIRECTED BY FIRE OR LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL IN AN EMERGENCY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4419 (Word version) -- Reps. Townsend, Cooper, White, Thompson, Agnew and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-45-430, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF TAX RECEIPTS BY A COUNTY TREASURER UPON FULL PAYMENT OF THE TAXES AND CHARGES DUE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY TREASURER MAY ACCEPT A LESSER AMOUNT THAN THE ORIGINAL TAX BILL TOGETHER WITH ANY APPLICABLE PENALTIES, COSTS, AND CHARGES WHENEVER A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING AUTHORIZES A LESSER AMOUNT TO BE PAID, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE AUDITOR MAY PREPARE A TAX BILL TO AUTHORIZE NEGOTIATED TAXES AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4426 (Word version) -- Reps. Thompson and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN AN ENTITY EXEMPT FROM PROPERTY TAX AS A NONPROFIT CORPORATION FUNDED BY FEDERAL OR STATE LOANS OR AS A RELIGIOUS, CHARITABLE, A ELEEMOSYNARY, EDUCATIONAL, OR LITERACY ORGANIZATION LEASES PROPERTY OWNED BY IT TO SIMILARLY PROPERTY TAX EXEMPT ENTITIES, THE LEASED PORTION OF THE PROPERTY IS EXEMPT FROM PROPERTY TAX.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4446 (Word version) -- Reps. Kennedy, Jennings, Lucas, Hayes, Rhoad, Hodges, Miller and Bales: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3367 SO AS TO ALLOW A TEN-YEAR MORATORIUM ON STATE CORPORATE INCOME TAXES OR INSURANCE PREMIUM TAXES TO A TAXPAYER THAT MAKES AT LEAST NINETY PERCENT OF THE TAXPAYER'S TOTAL INVESTMENT IN THIS STATE AND CREATES JOBS IN THE MORATORIUM COUNTY OR TO ALLOW THE MORATORIUM WHEN THAT TAXPAYER CREATES AT LEAST ONE HUNDRED NEW JOBS AND INVESTS AT LEAST ONE HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS IN A MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN A SECOND COUNTY DESIGNATED AS DISTRESSED, LEAST DEVELOPED, OR UNDERDEVELOPED WITH THE NINETY PERCENT OVERALL LIMITATION APPLYING TO INVESTMENT IN ONE OR BOTH OF THESE COUNTIES, TO PROVIDE FOR A FIFTEEN-YEAR MORATORIUM, TO PROVIDE THAT A CHANGE IN BUSINESS FORM DURING THE MORATORIUM PERIOD DOES NOT AFFECT THE MORATORIUM, AND TO DEFINE "TAXPAYER" TO INCLUDE A GROUP OF AFFILIATED TAXPAYERS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4491 (Word version) -- Rep. Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE TARGETED JOBS TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "QUALIFYING SERVICE-RELATED FACILITY" WITH RESPECT TO COMPENSATION REQUIREMENTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4504 (Word version) -- Rep. Kirsh: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 12-2-60, 12-4-520, 12-37-250, AS AMENDED, 12-37-251, 12-37-255, 12-37-266, 12-37-270, 12-37-275, 12-37-280, 12-37-450, 12-39-15, 12-39-150, 12-39-180, 12-39-190, 12-39-200, 12-39-270, 12-39-310, 12-45-15, 12-45-35, 12-45-70, AND 12-49-85, ALL RELATING TO CERTAIN POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL IN CONNECTION WITH THE OPERATIONS OF A COUNTY TREASURER AND A COUNTY AUDITOR, SO AS TO DEVOLVE THOSE POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ONTO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 11-3-60, 11-3-200, 11-3-220, AND 12-39-320 ALL RELATING TO CERTAIN POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL IN CONNECTION WITH THE OPERATIONS OF A COUNTY TREASURER OR COUNTY AUDITOR.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator McCONNELL from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4595 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Walker, Jennings, Battle, Cobb-Hunter, Sandifer, Haley, Kennedy, Bales, Ballentine, Branham, Emory, Hayes, J. Hines, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Miller, Neilson, Rivers, Sinclair, Umphlett, Vick and Bingham: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-59-35 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON FROM ENGAGING IN THE BUSINESS OF RESIDENTIAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTING UNLESS LICENSED AS A RESIDENTIAL SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR; TO PROHIBIT PROVIDING A POTENTIAL BUYER A PROPOSAL FOR SALE OR INSTALLATION OF RESIDENTIAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING, OTHER THAN A WRITTEN ESTIMATE, BEFORE THE SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SYSTEM HAVE BEEN REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY A LICENSED EMPLOYEE OF THE RETAIL SELLER, OR THE RETAIL SELLER; TO FURTHER SPECIFY CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SALE AND INSTALLATION OF A HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM; AND TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS ESTABLISHING A CIVIL PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator ELLIOTT from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4656 (Word version) -- Rep. Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2010, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TEMPORARY PERMITS UPON A FAVORABLE REFERENDUM VOTE ALLOWING THE POSSESSION, SALE, AND ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS BY THE DRINK OR ALLOWING THE SALE OF BEER AND WINE FOR OFF-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO THE PETITION METHOD OF CALLING THE REFERENDUM, A COUNTY OR MUNICIPAL GOVERNING BODY BY ORDINANCE MAY ALSO CALL THE REQUIRED REFERENDUM.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4691 (Word version) -- Reps. Chellis, Young, Cotty, Ceips, Ott, Sandifer and Whitmire: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 6-1-530 AND 6-1-730, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE USES ALLOWED FOR THE REVENUES OF THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO ALLOW A COUNTY IN WHICH LESS THAN NINE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS A YEAR IN STATE ACCOMMODATIONS TAX IS COLLECTED TO USE NOT MORE THAN FIFTY PERCENT OF THE PREVIOUS YEAR'S LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX REVENUES FOR THE OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE PURPOSES ALLOWED BY LAW IN COUNTIES MEETING THE NINE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLAR THRESHOLD.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4737 (Word version) -- Reps. Edge, Clemmons, Mitchell, Bales, Chalk, Hiott, Rice, Sandifer, Kirsh, E.H. Pitts, J. Brown, Huggins, R. Brown and Cobb-Hunter: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-225 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FEDERAL OR STATE INCOME TAX CREDITS FOR LOW INCOME HOUSING MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED WITH RESPECT TO THE VALUATION OF REAL PROPERTY OR IN DETERMINING THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR PROPERTY TAX PURPOSES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT FOR PROPERTIES THAT HAVE DEED RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT THAT PROMOTE OR PROVIDE FOR LOW INCOME HOUSING, THE INCOME APPROACH MUST BE THE METHOD OF VALUATION TO BE USED.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator ELLIOTT from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4768 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, Mack, Rutherford, Sinclair, Brady, Battle, McGee, Ballentine and J.E. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 61-2-185 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE CONSUMERS TO RECEIVE MERCHANDISE COUPONS OFFERED BY MANUFACTURERS, SUPPLIERS, OR IMPORTERS ON THE PURCHASE OF BEER, WINE, AND ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR, TO PROVIDE CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS AS TO THE MANNER IN WHICH THE COUPONS MAY BE OFFERED TO CONSUMERS, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4800 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Allen, Cato, Hamilton, Haskins, Leach, Loftis, Rice, F.N. Smith, G.R. Smith, Taylor, Tripp, Vaughn, Skelton, Duncan, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, Haley, E.H. Pitts, Martin, Huggins, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Ballentine, Battle, Cooper, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Hiott, Limehouse, Mahaffey, Norman, Owens, Perry, Sandifer, Scarborough, Sinclair, W.D. Smith, Stewart, Young and Thompson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, 12-6-3410, AS AMENDED, AND 12-6-3420, ALL OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING RESPECTIVELY TO THE TARGETED JOBS TAX CREDIT, THE INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR ESTABLISHING OR ADDING TO A CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS IN THIS STATE, AND THE TAX CREDIT ALLOWED A CORPORATION FOR CONSTRUCTION OR IMPROVEMENT OF AN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT, SO AS TO ALLOW THESE CREDITS TO BE CLAIMED AGAINST THE BANK TAX AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4840 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Cooper, Merrill, Ott, Haley, Funderburk, J.R. Smith, Limehouse, Davenport, Bales, Sinclair, Leach, Branham, Kirsh, Bannister, Battle, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Clark, Hosey, Littlejohn, Martin, Miller, Neilson, M.A. Pitts, Rivers, D.C. Smith, G.R. Smith, Vaughn, Mitchell, White, Brady and Hodges: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "INDUSTRY PARTNERS ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 13-17-88, PROVIDING FOR A TARGET PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE WITHIN EACH OF THE THREE SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH INNOVATION CENTERS AND TO FOCUS ON THE APPLICATION, DEVELOPMENT, AND COMMERCIALIZATION OF THE BASIC RESEARCH BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE CENTERS, FOR FUNDING OF THE PROGRAMS WITH A VIEW TOWARD ATTRACTING INDUSTRY PARTNERS IN THEIR EFFORTS, FOR AN INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP FUND OFFERING TAX CREDITS TO CONTRIBUTORS TOWARD THE EFFORTS, AND ADMINISTRATION AND IMPLEMENTATION BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH AUTHORITY; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3585 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PARAMETERS OF THE STATE INCOME TAX, INSURANCE PREMIUM TAX, OR LICENSE FEE CREDIT FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 13-17-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH AUTHORITY, SO AS TO ADD THE DIRECTOR OF THE SAVANNAH RIVER NATIONAL LABORATORY TO THE BOARD AND TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND DIRECTOR; TO AMEND SECTION 13-17-83, RELATING TO THE OPERATION OF EXISTING RESEARCH PARKS SO AS TO ALLOW, BUT NOT REQUIRE, THE STATE RESEARCH DIVISION TO OPERATE THEM; AND TO AMEND SECTION 13-17-87, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH INNOVATION CENTERS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE SCRIC TO FINANCE QUALIFIED COMPANIES, AND TO CLARIFY MATTERS OF LOCATION OF CENTERS AND APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GROOMS from the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4858 (Word version) -- Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, RELATING TO CLASSIFIED WATERS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3025, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4874 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Merrill, Cotty, Ballentine, G. Brown, Duncan, Barfield, Haley, Bailey, Bales, Bannister, Battle, Bingham, Brady, Breeland, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clemmons, Cooper, Dantzler, Delleney, Edge, Frye, Hardwick, Harrison, Haskins, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hodges, Huggins, Kirsh, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Mack, McGee, Miller, Norman, Ott, Perry, Pinson, E.H. Pitts, M.A. Pitts, Rhoad, Rice, Sandifer, Scarborough, Simrill, G.R. Smith, J.E. Smith, Talley, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Umphlett, Vick, Viers, Walker, White, Whitmire, Young, Lucas and Mitchell: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE ACT, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3589 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A CREDIT AGAINST THE STATE CORPORATE INCOME TAX FOR COSTS INCURRED BY A MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN COMPLYING WITH WHOLE EFFLUENT TOXICITY TESTING, THE AMOUNT OF THE CREDIT, AND A TEN-YEAR CARRY FORWARD PERIOD, AND TO DEFINE "MANUFACTURING FACILITY"; BY ADDING SECTION 12-36-2140 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXEMPTION FOR A MANUFACTURING PROPERTY FROM THE STATE SALES TAX ON NATURAL GAS ONCE THE PRICE OF NATURAL GAS EXCEEDS $6.50 FOR A DECATHERM; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-2250, RELATING TO APPORTIONMENT OF INCOME FOR CERTAIN BUSINESSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CALCULATION OF APPORTIONED INCOME USING SALES FIGURES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JOB TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BANK AS A TAXPAYER WHO MAY QUALIFY FOR THE CREDIT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3375, RELATING TO A TAX CREDIT AGAINST INCOME TAX FOR COMPANIES USING THE STATE'S PORT FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ALLOCATION OF THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE CREDITS ANNUALLY; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3410, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BANK'S HEADQUARTERS AND TO REDEFINE "COMPANY BUSINESS UNIT"; TO AMEND SECTION 12-10-80, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JOB DEVELOPMENT TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR A REDUCTION AGAINST THE CREDIT FOR TAXES DUE AND TO INCLUDE CERTAIN EMPLOYEE RELOCATION EXPENSES AS QUALIFYING EXPENSES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-20-110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CERTAIN ENTITIES TO WHICH CORPORATION LICENSE FEES PROVISIONS DO NOT APPLY, SO AS TO INCLUDE A CERTIFIED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ENTITY; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTION FROM THE STATE SALES TAX, SO AS TO EXEMPT CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS USED IN BUILDING A SINGLE MANUFACTURING AND DISTRIBUTION CENTER WITH CERTAIN MINIMUM INVESTMENTS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 12-44-130 AND 12-44-140, BOTH AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FEE IN LIEU OF PROPERTY TAXES, SO AS TO CORRECT A CROSS REFERENCE; TO AMEND SECTION 4-12-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO QUALIFICATION OF AN INDUCEMENT LEASE AGREEMENT FOR THE FEE IN LIEU OF PROPERTY TAXES, SO AS TO REDUCE THE MINIMUM INVESTMENT REQUIREMENT AND TO DELETE CERTAIN INVESTMENTS FROM A FOUR PERCENT MINIMUM ASSESSMENT RATIO; AND TO AMEND SECTION 4-29-67, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FEE IN LIEU OF PROPERTY TAXES FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, SO AS TO DELETE CERTAIN INVESTMENTS FROM A FOUR PERCENT MINIMUM ASSESSMENT RATIO AND TO REDUCE THE MINIMUM INVESTMENT REQUIREMENT.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4913 (Word version) -- Rep. Kirsh: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-717 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A THREE PERCENT SURCHARGE ON A RENTAL CONTRACT FOR THE RENTING OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT AND TO DEFINE "HEAVY EQUIPMENT" FOR THIS PURPOSE; BY ADDING SECTION 12-54-126 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE RETURN BY A BUSINESS OF A LICENSE ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND PAYMENT OF TAXES DUE UPON THE CLOSING OR TRANSFER OF THE BUSINESS; BY ADDING SECTION 12-54-196 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PENALTY FOR A RETAILER COLLECTING AN EXCESSIVE STATE OR LOCAL SALES TAX AND TO PROVIDE FOR MITIGATION OF THE PENALTY; BY REDESIGNATING SECTION 12-4-780, RELATING TO ACCEPTANCE BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE OF PAYMENT OF TAXES BY CREDIT CARD; TO AMEND SECTION 12-4-395, SO AS TO CORRECTLY REFLECT IT AS A GENERAL POWER OF THE DEPARTMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO APPLICATION OF THE FEDERAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE TO THIS STATE'S TAX LAWS, SO AS TO REFER TO THE IRC AS AMENDED THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2005; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-545, RELATING TO INCOME TAX RATES FOR ACTIVE TRADE OR BUSINESS INCOME OF A PASS-THROUGH BUSINESS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ROYALTIES TREATED AS PERSONAL HOLDING COMPANY INCOME AND AMOUNTS PAID AS GUARANTEED PAYMENTS REASONABLY RELATED TO PERSONAL SERVICES, TO DESCRIBE INCOME REASONABLY RELATED TO PERSONAL SERVICES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ELECTIONS AS TO TREATMENT OF INCOME FOR PERSONAL SERVICES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3350, RELATING TO TAX CREDIT FOR A STATE CONTRACTOR USING MINORITY SUBCONTRACTORS, SO AS TO CONFORM THE TERM "MINORITY FIRM" TO LANGUAGE USED ELSEWHERE IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JOB TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE TAXPAYER HAVE ONE HUNDRED OR MORE EMPLOYEES, AND TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "DISTRIBUTION FACILITY"; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO CONFORM THE DEFINITION OF DISTRIBUTION FACILITY TO THE REVISED DEFINITION PROVIDED BY THE AMENDMENT TO THE TARGETED JOBS TAX CREDIT IN THIS ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3375, RELATING TO CREDITS AGAINST THE STATE INCOME TAX FOR AN INCREASE IN PORT CARGO VOLUME, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR DETERMINATION OF THE BASE PORT CARGO VOLUME, THAT THE TAXPAYER APPLY TO THE COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TO QUALIFY, THAT THE COUNCIL DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF THE CREDIT UP TO A MAXIMUM OF EIGHT MILLION DOLLARS FOR ALL TAXPAYERS FOR EACH CALENDAR YEAR, THAT THE ENTIRE MAXIMUM AMOUNT BE PRORATED AMONG QUALIFYING TAXPAYERS IN A CALENDAR YEAR, AND FOR CARRYOVER OF EXCESS CREDIT FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-240, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PERMITTED DISCLOSURES OF INFORMATION BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, SO AS TO ALLOW THE EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT AND THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE IN CONNECTION WITH THE CREDIT FOR INCREASED PORT CARGO VOLUME; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3385, RELATING TO A REFUNDABLE INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR A TUITION PAYMENT, SO AS TO SUSPEND THE FOUR-YEAR CREDIT PERIOD IF A STUDENT IS DEPLOYED BY THE MILITARY ON ACTIVE DUTY DURING THE PERIOD AND RE-ENROLLS UPON DEMOBILIZATION; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3535, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT ALLOWED A TAXPAYER MAKING QUALIFIED REHABILITATION EXPENDITURES FOR A CERTIFIED HISTORIC STRUCTURE IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO ADD TECHNICAL REFERENCES AND TO DEFINE "PARTNER" FOR PURPOSES OF THE APPLICATION OF THE CREDIT TO PASS-THROUGH ENTITIES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-5030, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FILING OF A COMPOSITE CORPORATE INCOME TAX RETURN, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE COMPUTATION OF A NONRESIDENT PARTICIPANT'S PRO RATA SHARE OF SOUTH CAROLINA INCOME TAX; TO AMEND SECTION 12-10-80, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO JOB DEVELOPMENT TAX CREDITS, SO AS TO DELETE UNNECESSARY REFERENCES AND TO CORRECT A REFERENCE; TO AMEND SECTIONS 12-23-810, 12-23-830, AND 12-23-840, RELATING TO TAX ON LICENSED HOSPITALS FOR INDIGENT HEALTH CARE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN INITIAL TAX AND FOR TAXES FOR SECOND AND SUCCESSIVE FISCAL YEARS, TO PROVIDE FOR CALCULATION OF THE TAX, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE MONIES BE USED FOR HEALTH CARE COVERAGE FOR CERTAIN POPULATIONS IN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE USER FEE FOR MOTOR FUELS, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE "DIESEL FUEL" TO INCLUDE BIODIESEL FUEL AND "MOTOR FUEL" TO INCLUDE SUBSTITUTE FUEL, TO DEFINE "SUBSTITUTE FUEL", "BIODIESEL", AND "BIODIESEL BLEND", AND TO MAKE CERTAIN CLARIFICATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-310, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE IMPOSITION OF THE USER FEE, SO AS TO INCLUDE BLENDED, SUBSTITUTED, AND ALTERNATIVE FUELS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-790, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO REFUNDS OF THE USER FEE, SO AS TO DELETE THE CREDIT ALLOWANCE TO A SUPPLIER; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-970, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE IMPOSITION OF A BACKUP USER FEE ON MOTOR FUEL USED BY AN END USER, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE USE OF A SUBSTITUTE FUEL AND TO ADD A TAX ON A LIQUID OR GAS THAT IS NOT OTHERWISE SUBJECT TO THE MOTOR FUEL USER FEE, BY PROVIDING FOR A BACKUP TAX EQUAL TO THE USER FEE PAYABLE BY THE FIRST PERSON WHO RECEIVES THE PRODUCT INTO THIS STATE AND PAYABLE BY THE PRODUCER UPON THE FIRST SALE OR FIRST USE IN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-975, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DIVERSION OF MOTOR FUEL FROM AN OUT-OF-STATE DESTINATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE NOTIFICATION AND PAYMENT OF THE USER FEE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-990, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE LIABILITY OF A BLENDER OF FUELS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A USER FEE AGAINST BLENDED FUELS, PAYABLE BY THE BLENDER OR MANUFACTURER; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A TRANSPORTER OF MOTOR FUEL SUBJECT TO THE USER FEE, SO AS TO REQUIRE A TRANSPORTER'S LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1370, AS AMENDED RELATING TO A LICENSED TRANSPORTER, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE REPORTABLE TRANSPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-33-245, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE IMPOSITION OF AN EXCISE TAX ON THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR BY THE DRINK, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SALES MADE AT A LOCATION HOLDING A TEMPORARY LICENSE OR PERMIT, AND TO FURTHER DEFINE THE TERM "GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALE" TO INCLUDE THE VALUE OF COMPLIMENTARY ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR, ICE, AND MIXERS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-90, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALE" FOR PURPOSES OF THE STATE SALES AND USE TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERM DOES NOT INCLUDE THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY PURCHASED PURSUANT TO A WARRANTY, MAINTENANCE, OR SIMILAR SERVICE CONTRACT UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-910, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO APPLICATION OF THE FIVE PERCENT SOUTH CAROLINA SALES TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE TAX APPLIES TO THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF A WARRANTY, MAINTENANCE, OR OTHER SERVICE CONTRACTS FOR TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE SALES TAX, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE TYPE OF MATERIAL HANDLING SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT INCLUDED IN THE EXEMPTIONS, AND TO EXEMPT THE GROSS PROCEEDS FROM A SALE OF A WARRANTY, MAINTENANCE, OR OTHER SERVICE CONTRACT FOR TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY IF THE GROSS PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF THE SUBJECT TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY IS EXEMPT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2740, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE AND VEHICLE REGISTRATION FOR FAILURE TO PAY PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX, SO AS TO CHANGE REFERENCES FROM THE "DEPARTMENT" TO THE "DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES", AND TO PROVIDE FOR A MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR A THIRD AND SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE TO A FIVE HUNDRED-DOLLAR FINE OR THIRTY DAYS IN PRISON, OR BOTH; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2890, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF THE DRIVER'S LICENSE AND VEHICLE REGISTRATION OF A PERSON WHO FAILS TO PAY THE MOTOR CARRIER PROPERTY TAX ON A VEHICLE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SUSPENSION BE MADE BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES AFTER ELECTRONIC NOTICE AND FOR SPECIFIC PENALTIES FOR FIRST AND SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-43-335, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CLASSIFICATION OF ASSESSED PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF EQUALIZATION AND REASSESSMENT, SO AS TO CHANGE A REFERENCE TO CERTAIN SECTOR 22 CLASSIFICATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-155, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR SUBSTANTIAL UNDERSTATEMENT OF TAXES, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT THE PROVISION REFERS TO AN UNDERPAYMENT OF TAXES BASED ON AN UNDERSTATEMENT OF TAX OR A MISSTATEMENT OF VALUATION, TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN PENALTIES DO NOT APPLY TO UNDERPAYMENTS ATTRIBUTABLE TO FRAUD, BUSINESS-RELATED PROPERTY, OR A TAX SHELTER, WHICH ARE PENALIZED ELSEWHERE, TO DEFINE "SUBSTANTIAL VALUATION MISSTATEMENT", AND TO PROVIDE FOR REASONABLENESS AND GOOD FAITH ON THE PART OF THE TAXPAYER AND IN CONNECTION WITH CHARITABLE DEDUCTION PROPERTY; TO AMEND SECTION 12-60-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN CONNECTION WITH THE REVENUE PROCEDURES ACT, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-60-470, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO REFUND CLAIMS BY A STATE TAXPAYER, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH A PERSON OTHER THAN THE TAXPAYER LEGALLY LIABLE FOR THE TAX MAY CLAIM OR RECEIVE A REFUND, INCLUDING THE REQUIREMENT THAT AN ASSIGNMENT OF THE CLAIM OR REFUND BE IN WRITING, THE REFUND CLAIM OF A FOREIGN MISSION OR DIPLOMAT, THE APPLICATION OF SECTION 12-60-490, AND THE DISCLOSURE TO ANOTHER PERSON OF THE EFFECT OF OTHER TAX LIABILITIES OF THE TAXPAYER ON THE AMOUNT OF THE REFUND; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 12-4-770, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR APPEALING THE PROPOSED ASSESSMENT OF PROPERTY FOR TAXATION.

The Bill was received by the Senate after the deadline of May 1, 2006.

Senator LEATHERMAN stated under the provisions of Rule 47 that the Bill would require an affirmative vote of two-thirds of those Senate members present and voting to be placed on the Calendar.

The Bill received the necessary two-thirds vote of those Senate members present and voting and the Bill was ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MARTIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4962 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, RELATING TO SECURITIES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3045, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator SHEHEEN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4982 (Word version) -- Rep. G.M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-23-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL CARRYING OF A HANDGUN, SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THE EXCEPTIONS TO THE OFFENSE RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS OF A STATE AGENCY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 23-28-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TRAINING COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR RESERVE UNITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ADDITIONAL TRAINING MAY BE PRESCRIBED BY THE ENTITY HAVING A RESERVE UNIT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MARTIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:

H. 5049 (Word version) -- Reps. Bowers, R. Brown and Hodges: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 30-5-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PERFORMANCE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS' DUTIES BY A CLERK OF COURT IN CERTAIN COUNTIES, SO AS TO ADD COLLETON COUNTY TO THE LIST OF THOSE COUNTIES WHICH HAVE BOTH A REGISTER OF DEEDS AND A CLERK OF COURT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 30-5-12, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF A REGISTER OF DEEDS, SO AS TO ADD COLLETON COUNTY TO THE LIST OF COUNTIES IN WHICH THE GOVERNING BODY APPOINTS THE REGISTER OF DEEDS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator McCONNELL from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:

H. 5085 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, RELATING TO BOILER SAFETY PROGRAM, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3034, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.

HOUSE BILLS RETURNED

The following House Bills were read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 3922 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Ott, Umphlett, Barfield, Cato, Bailey, Hagood, Bowers, Hardwick and Neilson: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 44, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HEALTH, BY ADDING CHAPTER 18 SO AS TO ENACT THE "MERCURY SWITCH REMOVAL ACT OF 2005" IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE REDUCTIONS OF MERCURY IN THE ENVIRONMENT THROUGH REMOVAL AND COLLECTION OF MERCURY SWITCHES FROM MOTOR VEHICLES WEIGHING LESS THAN TWELVE THOUSAND POUNDS; TO PROVIDE THAT EVERY MANUFACTURER OF MOTOR VEHICLES SOLD IN THIS STATE TO WHICH THIS CHAPTER APPLIES SHALL DEVELOP A MERCURY MINIMIZATION PLAN TO BE FILED WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL; TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN COSTS WITH REGARD TO THE COLLECTION AND RECOVERY OF MERCURY SWITCHES TO BE PAID BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER; TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO THE RECYCLING, STORAGE, AND DISPOSAL OF MERCURY SWITCHES, INCLUDING DESIGNATING MERCURY SWITCHES AS UNIVERSAL WASTE AND REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THESE SWITCHES; AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

H. 3665 (Word version) -- Rep. Altman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA BILL OF RIGHTS DAY" BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-166 SO TO ESTABLISH DECEMBER FIFTEENTH OF EACH YEAR AS BILL OF RIGHTS DAY, AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL GOVERNMENTAL BODIES TO OBSERVE THE ANNUAL BILL OF RIGHTS DAY IN A MANNER THAT EMPHASIZES THE DOCUMENT'S MEANING AND IMPORTANCE.

H. 4965 (Word version) -- Reps. Loftis, Pinson, Hardwick, Barfield, Bannister, Ceips, Clark, Clemmons, Coates, Davenport, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Hamilton, Harrison, Haskins, Hiott, Mahaffey, Merrill, Norman, Owens, Perry, M.A. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, F.N. Smith, Stewart, Talley, Walker, Witherspoon, Young, Mitchell, McLeod, Leach, Altman and Harrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 16-17-525 SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO WILFULLY OR MALICIOUSLY DISTURB OR INTERRUPT A FUNERAL SERVICE AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

Senator CROMER asked unanimous consent to take the Bill up for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator CROMER, with unanimous consent, the Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House.

AMENDED, READ THE THIRD TIME
RETURNED TO THE HOUSE

H. 4481 (Word version) -- Reps. Martin, Townsend, J.H. Neal, McLeod, Clark, Agnew, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Bingham, Brady, Cato, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Dantzler, Frye, Harrison, Herbkersman, J. Hines, Hosey, Huggins, Jefferson, Miller, Ott, Parks, Pinson, Rhoad, Scott, Sinclair, Umphlett, Vaughn, Walker and White: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 57-23-800, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION'S MANAGEMENT OF VEGETATION ALONG INTERSTATE HIGHWAY MEDIANS, ROADSIDES, AND INTERCHANGES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY UNDERTAKE THIS ACTIVITY AT ITS DISCRETION AFTER CONSULTING THE LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY THAT HAS JURISDICTION OVER THE PORTION OF HIGHWAY SUBJECT TO THE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PROJECT.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the third reading of the Bill.

Motion Under Rule 26B

Senator RYBERG asked unanimous consent to make a motion to take up further amendments pursuant to the provisions of Rule 26B.

There was no objection.

Senator RYBERG proposed the following amendment (4481R003.WGR), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 1, by striking lines 29-36 and inserting:

/   "Section 57-23-800.   (A)   The Department of Transportation shall conduct vegetation management of the medians, roadsides, and interchanges along the interstate highway system in accordance with the following requirements: at its discretion. When implementing a new vegetation management policy pursuant to this section, the department must consider comments received from the local governmental authority that has jurisdiction over the portion of the highway subject to the vegetation management policy.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RYBERG explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.

SECOND READING BILLS

The following Bills, having been read the second time, were ordered placed on the Third Reading Calendar:

S. 1420 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-530, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN YORK COUNTY, SO AS TO REVISE AND RENAME CERTAIN VOTING PRECINCTS OF YORK COUNTY, AND TO REDESIGNATE A MAP NUMBER FOR THE MAP ON WHICH LINES OF THESE PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED AND MAINTAINED BY THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.

S. 1420--Ordered to a Third Reading

On motion of Senator HAYES, S. 1420 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, May 18, 2006.

S. 1422 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 49, TITLE 48 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA MOUNTAIN RIDGE PROTECTION ACT OF 1984, SO AS TO APPLY TO ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAKES THE PROTECTIONS AFFORDED BY THIS ACT, WHICH INCLUDE LIMITING THE CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS TO FORTY-TWO FEET, ON ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAKEFRONTS AND TO DEFINE "ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LAKE" AS LAKE KEOWEE AND LAKE JOCASSEE.

Senator FAIR asked unanimous consent to take the Bill up for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator FAIR, with unanimous consent, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 3882 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell and Clark: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 10 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY ALLOW YEAR OF MANUFACTURE LICENSE PLATES TO SERVE AS THE OFFICIAL LICENSE PLATES FOR CERTAIN MOTOR VEHICLES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by Senators FAIR and HUTTO.

Senators FAIR and HUTTO proposed the following amendment (3882R002.MLF), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered new SECTION to read:

/     SECTION   __.   Section 56-3-8000(A) and (B) of the 1976 Code is further amended to read:

"(A)   The department may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate the emblem, a seal, or other symbol the department considers appropriate of an organization which has obtained certification pursuant to either Section 501(C)(3), 501(C)(7), or 501(C)(8) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code. The fee for this special license plate is the fee contained in Section 56-3-2020. From the fees collected pursuant to this section, the Comptroller General shall place sufficient funds into a special restricted account to be used by the department to defray the expenses associated with producing and administering the special license plate. The remaining funds collected from the special license plate fee must be placed in the general fund. If the 501(C)(3), 501(C)(7), or 501(C)(8) organization has been chartered for at least five years, a portion of the special license plate fee may be returned to the organization. Once four hundred new license plates or renewals have been issued, the special license plate fee funds must be distributed to the organization that requested the license plate.

The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued.

(B)   Before the department produces and distributes a plate authorized under this section, it must receive:

(1)   four hundred or more prepaid applications for the special license plate or a deposit fee of four thousand dollars from the individual or organization seeking issuance of the license plate. If a deposit The fee of four thousand dollars is made by an individual or organization pursuant to this section, the department must refund the four thousand dollars once an equivalent amount of license plate fees is collected for that organization's license plate. If the equivalent amount is not collected within four years of the first issuance of the license plate, then the department must retain the deposit must be placed by the Comptroller General into a special restricted account to be used by the department to defray the expenses associated with the initial cost of producing the license plate.

(2)   a plan to market the sale of the special license plate which must be approved by the department."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator RYBERG proposed the following amendment (3882R003.WGR), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, by striking lines 1- 4 and inserting:

/     the plate to the applicant. The department may not register a license plate that has a sequence of numbers, letters, or other characters identical to any other license plate already issued by the department. The applicant may only use the special license plate on the vehicle with which the license plate registration corresponds.       /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RYBERG explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 4532 (Word version) -- Reps. Coates, McGee and Townsend: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-15-320, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUTOMOBILE WHOLESALER AND DEALER LICENSES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF THE SURETY BOND AN APPLICANT FOR LICENSURE AS A WHOLESALER OR A DEALER MUST PROVIDE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND TO INCREASE THE AGGREGATE LIABILITY OF THE SURETY FOR CLAIMS ON EACH BOND AND THE AMOUNT OF THE ACTUAL LOSS INCURRED.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator LAND proposed the following amendment (4532R002.JCL), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:

/   SECTION   1.   Section 56-15-320(B) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(B)   Each applicant for licensure as a dealer or wholesaler shall furnish a surety bond in the penal amount of fifteen thirty thousand dollars on a form prescribed by the director of the department. The bond must be given to the department and executed by the applicant, as principal, and by a corporate surety company authorized to do business in this State, as surety. The bond must be conditioned upon the applicant or licensee complying with the statutes applicable to the license and as indemnification for loss or damage suffered by an owner of a motor vehicle, or his legal representative, by reason of fraud practiced or fraudulent representation made in connection with the sale or transfer of a motor vehicle by a licensed dealer or wholesaler or the dealer's or wholesaler's agent acting for the dealer or wholesaler or within the scope of employment of the agent or loss or damage suffered by reason of the violation by the dealer or wholesaler or his agent of this chapter. An owner or his legal representative who suffers the loss or damage has a right of action against the dealer or wholesaler and against the dealer's or wholesaler's surety upon the bond and may recover damages as provided in this chapter. However, regardless of the number of years a bond remains in effect, the aggregate liability of the surety for claims is limited to fifteen thirty thousand dollars on each bond and to the amount of the actual loss incurred. The surety may terminate its liability under the bond by giving the department thirty days' written notice of its intent to cancel the bond. The cancellation does not affect liability incurred or accrued before the cancellation."

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

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LAND explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

ADOPTED

S. 1418 (Word version) -- Senator Fair: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE GREENVILLE YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION TO USE THE SENATE CHAMBER AND ANY AVAILABLE COMMITTEE HEARING ROOMS IN THE GRESSETTE SENATE OFFICE BUILDING ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2006, AND FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2006, TO CONDUCT A YOUTH IN GOVERNMENT PROGRAM.

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

ADOPTED

S. 1419 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FEDERAL INTERSTATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM AND THE VITAL IMPACT IT HAS ON OUR STATE, ECONOMY, SECURITY, AND THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF OUR CITIZENS.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2006

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the appointment:

STATEWIDE APPOINTMENT

Initial Appointment, Prisoner of War Commission, with term to commence July 1, 2003, and to expire July 1, 2007:

1st Congressional District:

Reginald B. Salisbury, 2097 Cypress Camp Ground, Ridgeville, S.C. 29472 VICE Charles Youngblood (deceased)
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2006

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the appointment:

STATEWIDE APPOINTMENT

Initial Appointment, Prisoner of War Commission, with term to commence July 1, 2005, and to expire July 1, 2009:

3rd Congressional District:

Talmadge P. Callison, 2719 Country Farm Road, Greenwood, S.C. 29646 VICE Jack H. Simmons (resigned)
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2006

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the appointment:

STATEWIDE APPOINTMENT

Reappointment, Prisoner of War Commission, with term to commence July 1, 2005, and expire July 1, 2009:

6th Congressional District:

Charles R. Murray, 200 Carolina Avenue, St. George, S.C. 29477 Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.

REMOVED FROM THE CALENDAR

S. 413 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Setzler, Mescher and Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-26-87 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS WHO HAVE RECEIVED NATIONAL CERTIFICATION FROM THE AMERICAN SPEECH-LANGUAGE HEARING ASSOCIATION (ASHA) OR WHO ARE LICENSED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION BEGINNING WITH FISCAL YEAR 2005-06, SHALL RECEIVE A PAY INCREASE OF SEVEN THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS PER YEAR FOR THE LIFE OF THE CERTIFICATE OR LICENSE, SUBJECT TO FUNDING BEING PROVIDED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN THE ANNUAL GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT.

Senator MARTIN moved that the Bill be removed from the Calendar, having previously been recommitted to the Committee on Education.

The Bill was removed from the Calendar.

RECALLED AND COMMITTED

H. 4579 (Word version) -- Reps. Merrill, Bingham, E.H. Pitts, Hardwick, Haley, Bailey, Bales, Cato, Dantzler, Duncan, Hinson, Jefferson, Leach, Loftis, Mahaffey, Moody-Lawrence, Neilson, M.A. Pitts, Umphlett and Young: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-19-315, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO A SCHOOL TRUSTEE'S TERM OF OFFICE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IN A SCHOOL DISTRICT WHERE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS ARE ELECTED, THE ELECTION MUST BE HELD ON THE SECOND TUESDAY OF NOVEMBER; TO AMEND SECTIONS 59-71-40 AND 59-71-50, BOTH RELATING TO A SCHOOL BOND ELECTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ELECTION MUST BE HELD ON THE SECOND TUESDAY OF NOVEMBER.

Senator COURSON moved to recall the Bill from the Committee on Education.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Education.

On motion of Senator COURSON, the Bill was committed to the Committee on Judiciary.

RECOMMITTED

S. 969 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Leatherman, Thomas, Martin, Short, Alexander, Richardson, Ritchie, Sheheen, Campsen, Williams, Ford, Anderson and Knotts: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 7, ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO ANNUAL BUDGETS AND EXPENSES OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A TAX MUST BE LEVIED TO PAY FOR A DEFICIENCY OF THE PRECEDING YEAR, ANY CATASTROPHIC EVENT OUTSIDE THE CONTROL OF THE GOVERNING BODY, OR COMPLIANCE WITH A COURT ORDER OR DECREE, THE AMOUNT OF TAX PAID BY A TAXPAYER MUST BE LISTED ON THE TAX STATEMENT AS A SEPARATE SURCHARGE AND NOT INCLUDED WITH A GENERAL MILLAGE INCREASE; AND PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE, RELATING TO FINANCE AND TAXATION, BY ADDING SECTION 17, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT, EXCEPT IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, A SCHOOL DISTRICT, COUNTY, MUNICIPALITY, SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICT, PUBLIC SERVICE DISTRICT, OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THE STATE MUST LIMIT AN INCREASE IN ITS MILLAGE RATE TO NO MORE THAN THE AVERAGE OF THE PERCENTAGE INCREASES IN THE TOTAL PERSONAL INCOME GROWTH IN THE STATE FOR EACH OF THE THREE PREVIOUSLY COMPLETED CALENDAR YEARS FOR WHICH FIGURES ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Joint Resolution, the question being the second reading of the Joint Resolution.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Joint Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Judiciary.

RECOMMITTED

S. 220 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2942, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE IMMOBILIZATION OF A VEHICLE AFTER A PERSON IS CONVICTED OF CERTAIN ALCOHOL RELATED OFFENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND NOT THE COURT MUST IDENTIFY ALL VEHICLES REGISTERED TO THE CONVICTED PERSON, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ASSESSES A FINE AGAINST A PERSON WHO FALSIFIES A REPORT CONCERNING VEHICLES OWNED BY OR REGISTERED TO THE CONVICTED PERSON, TO DELETE THE FEE THAT THE COURT MUST ASSESS FOR EACH MOTOR VEHICLE OWNED BY OR REGISTERED TO A PERSON CONVICTED OF CERTAIN ALCOHOL RELATED OFFENSES; TO ESTABLISH A REINSTATEMENT FEE THAT MUST BE PAID TO THE DEPARTMENT; AND TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CORRECTION.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Transportation.

RECOMMITTED

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the following Bills and Joint Resolution were recommitted to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 296 (Word version) -- Senators Martin, Mescher, O'Dell, Richardson, Cromer and Bryant: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-146 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO IS CONVICTED OF A VIOLENT CRIME MUST SURRENDER HIS DRIVER'S LICENSE OR SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD TO THE COURT WHICH MUST TRANSMIT IT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TOGETHER WITH NOTICE OF THE CRIME, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DRIVER'S LICENSE OR SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD IS CONSIDERED REVOKED AND MUST NOT BE RETURNED TO THE PERSON UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY ADDING 56-1-148 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CONVICTED OF A VIOLENT CRIME MUST HAVE A SPECIAL CODE AFFIXED TO HIS DRIVER'S LICENSE OR SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD THAT IDENTIFIES THE PERSON AS HAVING BEEN CONVICTED OF A VIOLENT CRIME, TO PROVIDE A FEE TO BE CHARGED FOR AFFIXING THE CODE AND FOR ITS DISTRIBUTION, TO PROVIDE THE INTENT FOR AFFIXING THE CODE, AND TO PROVIDE A PROCESS FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE CODE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-80, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CONTENTS OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE APPLICATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE APPLICATION MUST CONTAIN A STATEMENT TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE APPLICANT HAS BEEN CONVICTED OF A VIOLENT CRIME AND, IF SO, THE CRIME, AND MUST CONTAIN A LIST OF ALL VIOLENT CRIMES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-3350, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF A SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD MUST CONTAIN A STATEMENT TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE APPLICANT HAS BEEN CONVICTED OF A VIOLENT CRIME AND, IF SO, THE CRIME, AND MUST CONTAIN A LIST OF ALL VIOLENT CRIMES.

S. 513 (Word version) -- Senators Richardson, McConnell, Thomas, Hawkins and Scott: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-5-36 SO AS TO MAKE IT AN UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE REPAIR BUSINESS TO ADMINISTER INSURANCE CLAIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLE REPAIRS.

S. 722 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 62-2-204, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO A SURVIVING SPOUSE'S RIGHTS TO AN ELECTIVE SHARE, HOMESTEAD ALLOWANCE, AND EXEMPT PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE VOLUNTARY WAIVER OF THOSE RIGHTS UPON FAIR AND REASONABLE DISCLOSURE BY THE OTHER SPOUSE.

S. 821 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Knotts: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE FOR A STATEWIDE ADVISORY REFERENDUM TO BE HELD AT THE SAME TIME AS THE 2006 GENERAL ELECTION TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THIS STATE FAVOR CHANGING THE STARTING DATE FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF THIS STATE.

S. 924 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 29-15-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LIENS FOR REPAIRS OR STORAGE OF ARTICLES AND SALE OF ARTICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PROPRIETORS, OWNERS, OR OPERATORS OF TOWING COMPANIES, STORAGE FACILITIES, GARAGES, OR REPAIR SHOPS WHO PROVIDE ESTIMATES FOR REPAIRS MAY CAUSE ARTICLES LEFT IN THEIR SHOPS FOR AN ESTIMATE OF REPAIRS TO BE SOLD BY A MAGISTRATE IN THE COUNTY WHERE THE ESTIMATE OF REPAIRS WAS DONE.

S. 1229 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-745, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO REPRESENTATION OF CLIENTS BY MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, SO AS TO PROHIBIT ANY MEMBER OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OR AN ASSOCIATE FROM COMMUNICATING WITH ANY MEMBER OF OR STAFF PERSON WITHIN THE UNIFIED JUDICIAL SYSTEM, AN AGENCY, A COMMISSION, BOARD, DEPARTMENT, OR OTHER ENTITY REGARDING ANY PENDING CASE EXCEPT AS A COUNSEL TO A LITIGANT, AS A WITNESS, OR AS A PRO SE LITIGANT AS PERMITTED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA APPELLATE COURT RULES.

RECOMMITTED

H. 3198 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, Wilkins, Scarborough and Umphlett: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 9, CHAPTER 21, TITLE 5 SO AS TO ENACT THE "MUNICIPAL FINANCE OVERSIGHT ACT OF 2005" TO CREATE THE MUNICIPAL FINANCE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION AND AN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE COMMISSION, PROVIDE FOR THEIR COMPOSITION, POWERS, DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES, REQUIRE MUNICIPALITIES TO SUBMIT ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORTS AND ANNUAL AUDITS, PROVIDE FOR SANCTIONS AGAINST MUNICIPALITIES THAT FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE COMMISSION'S PLAN FOR REFINANCING, ADJUSTING, OR COMPROMISING A DEBT, PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR AN OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE OF A MUNICIPALITY WHO FAILS TO COMPLY WITH THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 9 OF CHAPTER 21; AND TO AMEND SECTION 6-1-50, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF A FINANCIAL REPORT SUBMITTED BY COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES TO THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE REPORT BE SUBMITTED INSTEAD TO THE MUNICIPAL FINANCE COMMISSION AND DELETE A REFERENCE TO THE ADVISORY COMMISSION ON INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS.

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Finance.

RECOMMITTED

S. 519 (Word version) -- Senator Land: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 8-11-81 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL TO PAY A PREMIUM FOR THE PREPAID LEGAL INSURANCE OF A STATE EMPLOYEE BY MEANS OF PAYROLL DEDUCTION AND TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS APPLICABLE WITH RESPECT TO THE PAYROLL DEDUCTION.

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Finance.

RECOMMITTED

S. 966 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman, O'Dell and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 8-11-160 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION AND SALARY INCREASES FOR AGENCY HEADS, TO PROVIDE THAT SALARY INCREASES FOR TECHNICAL COLLEGE PRESIDENTS ARE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 8-11-165 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE SALARY AND FRINGE BENEFIT SURVEY FOR AGENCY HEADS, TO PROVIDE THAT A SALARY AND FRINGE BENEFIT SURVEY MUST BE CONDUCTED FOR TECHNICAL COLLEGE PRESIDENTS EVERY THREE YEARS AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION MAY RECOMMEND TO THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD THAT TECHNICAL COLLEGE PRESIDENT SALARIES MAY BE ADJUSTED AS REQUIRED.

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Finance.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate agreed to dispense with the Motion Period.

HAVING DISPENSED WITH THE MOTION PERIOD, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS OF COMMITTEES OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE.

H. 3841--REPORT OF THE
COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE ADOPTED

H. 3841 (Word version) -- Reps. Talley, Bowers, Cotty, Clark, Chellis, Martin, Skelton, Davenport, McGee, Altman, Bailey, Brady, Harrison, J. Hines, Leach, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Phillips, Rice, Scarborough, Scott, W.D. Smith, Young, Jennings, Coleman, Hagood, Pinson and Loftis: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 6, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, BY ADDING CHAPTER 34 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RETAIL FACILITIES REVITALIZATION ACT" INCLUDING PROVISIONS TO PROVIDE PROPERTY TAX CREDITS OR INCOME TAX CREDITS FOR REHABILITATION EXPENSES MADE TO ELIGIBLE SITES WHICH HAVE BEEN USED AS RETAIL SALES OR SERVICE FACILITIES.

On motion of Senator O'DELL, with unanimous consent, the Report of the Committee of Conference was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator O'DELL spoke on the report.

On motion of Senator O'DELL, the Report of the Committee of Conference to H. 3841 was adopted as follows:

H. 3841--Conference Report
(P:\Legwork/Senate\Amend\DKA\3789SD06.DOC)

The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., May 17, 2006

The Committee of Conference, to whom was referred:

H. 3841 (Word version) -- Reps. Talley, Bowers, Cotty, Clark, Chellis, Martin, Skelton, Davenport, McGee, Altman, Bailey, Brady, Harrison, J. Hines, Leach, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Phillips, Rice, Scarborough, Scott, W.D. Smith, Young, Jennings, Coleman, Hagood, Pinson and Loftis: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 6, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, BY ADDING CHAPTER 34 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RETAIL FACILITIES REVITALIZATION ACT" INCLUDING PROVISIONS TO PROVIDE PROPERTY TAX CREDITS OR INCOME TAX CREDITS FOR REHABILITATION EXPENSES MADE TO ELIGIBLE SITES WHICH HAVE BEEN USED AS RETAIL SALES OR SERVICE FACILITIES.

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

That the same do pass with the following amendments: (Reference is to Printer's Version 03/22/06--S.)

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:

/   SECTION   1.   Title 6 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"CHAPTER 34
Retail Facilities Revitalization Act

Section 6-34-10.   This chapter is known and may be cited as the 'South Carolina Retail Facilities Revitalization Act'.

Section 6-34-20.   (A)   The primary purpose of this chapter is to create a meaningful incentive for the renovation, improvements, and redevelopment of abandoned retail facility sites located in South Carolina.

(B)   The abandonment of retail facility sites has resulted in the disruption of communities and increased the cost to local governments by requiring additional police and fire services due to excessive vacancies. Many abandoned retail facility sites pose safety concerns. A public and corporate purpose of the local governments will be served by restoring the retail facility sites to a productive asset for the communities and result in increased job opportunities.

(C)   There exists in many communities of this State abandoned retail facilities. The stable economic and physical development of these areas is endangered by the presence of these abandoned facilities as manifested by progressive and advanced deterioration of structures. As a result of the existence of these abandoned facilities, there is an excessive and disproportionate expenditure of public funds, inadequate public and private investment, unmarketability of property, growth in delinquencies, and crime in the areas together with an abnormal exodus of families and businesses so that the decline of these areas impairs the value of private investments and threatens the sound growth and the tax base of taxing districts in the areas, and threatens the health, safety, morals, and welfare of the public. To remove and alleviate these adverse conditions, it is necessary to encourage private investment and restore and enhance the tax base of the taxing districts in the areas by the redevelopment of these abandoned facilities.

Section 6-34-30.   For the purposes of this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1)   'Abandoned' means that at least eighty percent of the eligible site's facilities have been continuously closed to business or have been otherwise nonoperational for a period of at least one year immediately preceding the time at which the determination is to be made. The eligible site's facilities only include the site's building or structure.

(2)   'Eligible site' means a shopping center, mall, or free standing site whose primary use was as a retail sales facility with at least one tenant or occupant located in a forty thousand square foot or larger building or structure. To qualify as an eligible site, the shopping center, mall, or free standing site must be abandoned. During the abandonment, the eligible site may serve as a wholesale facility, provided the site serves as a wholesale facility for no more than one year.

(3)   'Local taxing entities' means a county, municipality, school district, special purpose district, and any other entity or district with the power to levy ad valorem property taxes against the eligible site.

(4)   'Local taxing entity ratio' means that percentage computed by dividing the millage rate of each local taxing entity by the total millage rate for the eligible site.

(5)   'Placed in service' means the date upon which the eligible site is suitable for occupancy for the purposes intended.

(6)   'Rehabilitation expenses' means the expenses incurred in the rehabilitation of the eligible site, excluding the cost of acquiring the eligible site or the cost of personal property maintained at the eligible site.

Section 6-34-40.   (A)   Subject to the terms and conditions of this chapter, a taxpayer who improves, renovates, or redevelops an eligible site is eligible for one of the following two tax credits:

(1)   a credit against real property taxes levied by local taxing entities equal to twenty-five percent of the rehabilitation expenses made to the eligible site times the local taxing entity ratio of each local taxing entity that has consented to the tax credit pursuant to subsection (B) below; or

(2)   a credit against any state income taxes imposed equal to ten percent of the rehabilitation expenses.

(B)   If the taxpayer elects to receive the credit pursuant to subsection (A)(1), the following provisions shall apply:

(1)   The municipality or, if the eligible site is located in an unincorporated area, the county first by resolution shall determine the eligibility of the eligible site and the eligibility of the proposed project seeking the credit. Any proposed project beginning after July 1, 2006, must be approved by a majority vote of the local governing body. The foregoing determinations and the municipality's or county's approval of the eligible site and proposed project must be by ordinance and public hearing. The ordinance shall provide for the credit to be taken as a credit against up to seventy-five percent of the real property taxes due on the site each year not to exceed eight years. Before determining the eligibility of the proposed eligible site, the municipality or county shall make a finding that the credit will not violate any covenant, representation, or warranty in any of its tax increment financing transactions.

(2)   Not less than forty-five days before holding the public hearing contemplated in subsection (B)(1), the governing body of the municipality or county shall give notice to all affected local taxing entities where the eligible site is located of its intention to grant a tax credit for an eligible site and the amount of the tax credit proposed to be granted. If a local taxing entity does not file an objection to the tax credit with the municipality or county on or before the date of the public hearing, the local taxing entity is considered to have consented to the tax credit, provided that the actual tax credit granted is equal to or less than the tax credit stated in the notice of public hearing.

(3)   The tax credit shall vest in the taxpayer in the tax year when the eligible site is placed in service and may be carried forward, in whole or in part, for up to eight years following that date.

(C)   If the taxpayer elects to receive the credit pursuant to subsection (A)(2), the following provisions apply:

(1)   The entire credit may not be taken for the taxable year in which the eligible site is placed in service, but must be taken in equal installments over an eight-year period beginning with the year in which the property is placed in service. Any unused portion of a credit installment may be carried forward for the succeeding five years.

(2)   The credit earned pursuant to this subsection by a 'S' corporation owing corporate level income tax must be used first at the entity level. Any remaining credit passes through to each shareholder in a percentage equal to each shareholder's percentage of stock ownership.

(3)   The credit earned pursuant to this subsection by a general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, or any other entity taxed as a partnership pursuant to Subchapter K of the Internal Revenue Code must be passed through to its partners and may be allocated among any of its partners, including without limitation, an allocation of the entire credit to one partner, in a manner agreed by the partners. As used in this subsection, the term 'partner' means a partner, member, or owner of an interest in the pass through entity, as applicable.

(4)   The credit earned pursuant to this subsection is in addition to and does not offset the state historic credit in the event the eligible site also is eligible for the state historic credit.

(5)   The South Carolina Department of Revenue shall promulgate regulations to verify the site's eligibility in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

(D)   The taxpayer shall elect the mode of credit pursuant to subsection (A)(1) or subsection (A)(2) by providing written notification of its intent to the South Carolina Department of Revenue prior to the date the eligible site is placed in service; provided, that, if the taxpayer did not obtain the approvals contained in subsection (B) or fails to affirmatively make the election prescribed in this chapter before the date the eligible site is placed in service, the taxpayer is considered to have elected to receive the credit provided in subsection (A)(2).

(E)   The owner of the eligible site may transfer, devise, or distribute any unused credit to the tenant of the eligible site. To be effectual, the department must receive written notification and approve of the transfer, devise, or distribution.

(F)   For the credit pursuant to subsection (A)(1), the governing body of a county or municipality where the site is located, by resolution, may reduce the forty thousand square foot eligibility requirement in Section 6-34-30(2) by not more than fifteen thousand square feet."

SECTION   2.   Chapter 34 of Title 6 of the 1976 Code, as added by the provisions of Section 1 of this act, is repealed on July 1, 2016.

SECTION   3.   (A)   Chapter 34 of Title 6 of the 1976 Code takes effect July 1, 2006, and applies for rehabilitation expenses incurred, without regard to the date these expenses were incurred, for eligible sites placed in service on or after July 1, 2006.

(B)   Except as otherwise provided, the remainder of this act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /

Amend title to conform.

/s/ Sen. William O'Dell           /s/ Rep. Herb Kirsh
/s/ Sen. Brad Hutto               /s/ Rep. Jay Lucas
/s/ Sen. Danny Verdin             /s/ Rep. Scott Talley
On Part of the Senate.             On Part of the House.

, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

HAVING DISPENSED WITH THE MOTION PERIOD, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.

CONCURRENCE

S. 836 (Word version) -- Senator Moore: A BILL TO AMEND JOINT RESOLUTION 210 OF 1987, RELATING TO THE PURCHASE OF NOTES OF THE CLARK'S-HILL RUSSELL AUTHORITY BY THE DIVISION OF GENERAL SERVICES OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD AND THE INTEREST RATE ON THESE NOTES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE INTEREST RATE MUST BE DETERMINED PERIODICALLY BY THE STATE TREASURER, RATHER THAN SET AT A RATE OF EIGHT PERCENT PER YEAR.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator MOORE, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.

CONCURRENCE

S. 1038 (Word version) -- Senators Martin, Gregory, Cleary, Knotts, Richardson, Ryberg, Mescher, Scott, Grooms, Elliott, Verdin and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 135 TO TITLE 44 TO ENACT THE "ASBESTOS AND SILICA CLAIMS PROCEDURE ACT OF 2006", SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO PERSON MAY RECEIVE A TRIAL DATE IN AN ASBESTOS OR SILICA CLAIM WITHOUT FIRST MAKING A PRIMA FACIE SHOWING THAT A QUALIFIED PHYSICIAN HAS DIAGNOSED THE PERSON WITH AN ASBESTOS-RELATED OR SILICA-RELATED DISEASE BASED ON THE PHYSICIAN'S ANALYSIS OF A DETAILED OCCUPATIONAL AND EXPOSURE HISTORY OF THE PERSON AND AN ANALYSIS OF THE PERSON'S MEDICAL HISTORY; TO ESTABLISH CRITERIA FOR THE REQUIRED MEDICAL DOCUMENTATION OF THE EXPOSED PERSON'S PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENT; TO ESTABLISH THAT THE LIMITATIONS PERIOD FOR AN EXPOSED PERSON OR CLAIMANT TO BRING AN ACTION DOES NOT BEGIN TO RUN UNTIL THE EXPOSED PERSON OR CLAIMANT DISCOVERS, OR SHOULD HAVE DISCOVERED, THAT THE EXPOSED PERSON OR CLAIMANT HAS OR HAD PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENT; TO CLARIFY THAT THIS CHAPTER DOES NOT AFFECT THE SCOPE OR OPERATION OF ANY WORKER'S COMPENSATION LAW OR VETERANS' BENEFIT PROGRAM; AND TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN OTHER REQUIREMENTS TO FILE AND MAINTAIN AN ASBESTOS OR SILICA CLAIM.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.

CONCURRENCE

S. 1175 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE TARGETED JOBS TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "DISTRIBUTION FACILITY"; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO CONFORM THE DEFINITION OF DISTRIBUTION FACILITY TO THE REVISED DEFINITION PROVIDED BY THE AMENDMENT TO THE TARGETED JOBS TAX CREDIT IN THIS ACT.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.

CONCURRENCE

S. 1359 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF EAST DANIEL MORGAN AVENUE IN THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG THAT RUNS FROM THE INTERSECTION OF EAST DANIEL MORGAN AVENUE AND NORTH CHURCH STREET TO THE INTERSECTION OF EAST DANIEL MORGAN AVENUE AND NORTH PINE STREET, THE "VIC BAILEY BOULEVARD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "VIC BAILEY BOULEVARD".

The House returned the Resolution with amendments.

On motion of Senator RITCHIE, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

HOUSE AMENDMENTS AMENDED
RETURNED TO THE HOUSE WITH AMENDMENTS

S. 680 (Word version) -- Senators Sheheen and Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-41-295 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL MAY BE DISPENSED AT UNATTENDED SERVICE STATIONS IF THE DISPENSING DEVISE HAS AN AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF VALVE THAT IS ACTIVATED WHEN THE SALE REACHES FIFTY DOLLARS.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator RYBERG, with unanimous consent, the Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.

Senators RYBERG and SHEHEEN proposed the following amendment (680R001.WGR), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:

/   SECTION   1.   Chapter 41, Title 39 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 39-41-295.   Notwithstanding Section 39-41-260, or any other provision of law, motor fuel, as defined in Section 12-28-110(39), may be dispensed at an unattended service station if the dispensing device has an automatic shut-off valve that is activated when the sale of the motor fuel reaches sixty-five dollars. In addition, the dispensing device shall be equipped with emergency controls pursuant to Chapter 22 Section 2204.3.3 of the International Fire Code. The service station shall be equipped with a 2A-20B-C fire extinguisher within seventy-five feet of the pump as required in Chapter 22 Section 2205.5 of the International Fire Code."

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

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RYBERG explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.

NONCONCURRENCE

H. 4449 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty, Harrell, Merrill, Walker, Ballentine, Limehouse, E.H. Pitts, Haley, Clark, Townsend, Altman, Anthony, Bailey, Bingham, Bowers, Cato, Ceips, Chellis, Clyburn, Coleman, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Hagood, Harrison, Haskins, Herbkersman, Hinson, Leach, Littlejohn, Loftis, Mahaffey, Martin, Phillips, Pinson, M.A. Pitts, Rhoad, Sandifer, Scarborough, F.N. Smith, G.M. Smith, J.R. Smith, Thompson, Toole, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, White, Whitmire, Young, Bales, Lucas, Kirsh, Huggins, Brady, Hamilton, McGee and Stewart: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTIONS 12-36-1110, 12-36-1120, AND 12-36-1130 SO AS TO IMPOSE AN ADDITIONAL TWO PERCENT SALES AND USE TAX; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT THE SALE OF UNPREPARED FOOD; TO ADD SECTION 11-11-155 SO AS TO CREATE THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FUND AND RESERVE FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL EXEMPTION EQUAL TO ONE HUNDRED PERCENT OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF OWNER-OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY FROM THE PROPERTY TAX, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THIS EXEMPTION WITH CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS DOES NOT APPLY WITH RESPECT TO PROPERTY TAX IMPOSED FOR PAYMENT OF GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT; TO ADD SECTION 12-37-932 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROPERTY TAX IS ITS FAIR MARKET VALUE AS APPRAISED IN THE MANNER PROVIDED BY LAW WHEN OWNERSHIP OF THE REAL PROPERTY LAST WAS TRANSFERRED, INCREASED BY THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF IMPROVEMENTS MADE TO THE REAL PROPERTY SINCE OWNERSHIP OF THE REAL PROPERTY LAST WAS TRANSFERRED, TO PROVIDE THAT ON THE FIRST DAY OF JANUARY IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS PROVISION THE DUTIES, POWERS, AND FUNCTIONS OF LOCAL COUNTY PROPERTY TAX ASSESSORS ARE TRANSFERRED TO AND DEVOLVED UPON THE PROPERTY TAX DIVISION OF THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, TO PROVIDE THAT THE SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS IN SECTION 12-36-2120 SHALL BE REVIEWED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY EVERY TEN YEARS BEGINNING IN 2010; TO AMEND SECTIONS 11-11-150, 12-43-210, AND 12-43-220, ALL AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TRUST FUND FOR TAX RELIEF, REASSESSMENT AND THE VALUATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROPERTY TAX, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS AND OTHER CHANGES TO REFLECT THESE PROVISIONS; TO AMEND ACT 406 OF 2000, RELATING TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, SO AS TO DELETE AN OBSOLETE PROVISION; TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-37-223A, 12-37-270, 12-43-217, 12-43-250, 12-43-260, AND 12-43-295, ALL RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX; TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER, AMOUNT, AND CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH REVENUES IN THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FUND SHALL BE DISBURSED TO PROPERTY TAXING ENTITIES OF THIS STATE INCLUDING SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO REIMBURSE THEM FOR THE REVENUE LOST AS A RESULT OF THE PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT LOCAL SALES TAX AND LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX REVENUES PROVIDING PROPERTY TAX RELIEF TO OWNER-OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SHALL BE APPLIED FOR PROPERTY TAX RELIEF TO OTHER CLASSES OF PROPERTY; TO ADD SECTION 4-9-56 SO AS TO LIMIT THE MILLAGE PROPERTY TAXING ENTITIES OF THIS STATE MAY IMPOSE ON PROPERTY OTHER THAN OWNER-OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY, AND TO PROVIDE FOR A SUPERMAJORITY VOTE OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE ENTITY TO EXCEED THIS LIMITATION; TO PROVIDE THAT ALL OF THE ABOVE PROVISIONS ARE CONTINGENT UPON RATIFICATION OF CERTAIN CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE X OF THE STATE CONSTITUTION PROVIDING FOR AN ADDITIONAL HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION, DETERMINATION OF FAIR MARKET VALUE OF PROPERTY, AND RELATED MATTERS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 11-27-30, 11-27-40, AND 11-27-50, ALL AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF ARTICLE X OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTION ON BONDS OF THE STATE, POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS OF THE STATE, AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS, RESPECTIVELY, SO AS TO DEEM AFTER JULY 1, 2006, A COMPLETE OR PARTIAL SUCCESSOR-IN-INTEREST TO, OR OTHER TRANSFEREE OF, OR OTHER ASSOCIATE OF THE STATE, A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION, OR A SCHOOL DISTRICT TO BE THE STATE, POLITICAL SUBDIVISION, OR SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR BONDING PURPOSES WHEN THE SUCCESSOR, TRANSFEREE, OR ASSOCIATE UNDERTAKES ALL OR A PORTION OF THE OPERATION OR ASSUMES ALL OR A PORTION OF A DUTY OF THE STATE, POLITICAL SUBDIVISION, OR SCHOOL DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-670, RELATING TO LISTING AND ASSESSMENT OF NEW STRUCTURES FOR PROPERTY TAX PURPOSES, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A COUNTY GOVERNING BODY BY ORDINANCE TO REQUIRE THAT A NEW STRUCTURE BE LISTED BY THE FIRST DAY OF THE MONTH AFTER THE CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY IS ISSUED FOR THE STRUCTURE AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TIMING OF PAYMENT OF TAXES DUE; TO REPEAL SECTION 12-37-680 RELATING TO A LOCAL COUNTY ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE SAME RULE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-43-215, RELATING TO OWNER-OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY IN CONNECTION WITH AD VALOREM PROPERTY TAXATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH COUNTY TO SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE LISTING THE NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF ALL PROPERTY CLASSIFIED AS "OWNER-OCCUPIED"; TO ADD SECTION 59-20-21 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING WITH THE YEAR 2006, THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, IN DETERMINING THE MINIMUM EDUCATION PROGRAM DESIGNED TO MEET STUDENTS' NEEDS, MAY ONLY CONSIDER FACTORS REQUIRED BY STATUTORY LAW OR WHICH DIRECTLY AFFECT CLASSROOM LEARNING, AND THE LOCAL MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT REQUIRED OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT MUST BE BASED ON THESE DETERMINATIONS; TO ADD SECTION 59-20-22 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NOTWITHSTANDING A SCHOOL DISTRICT'S INDEX OF TAXPAYING ABILITY, THE MINIMUM STATE FUNDS A SCHOOL DISTRICT SHALL RECEIVE IN ANY YEAR IS FORTY PERCENT OF THE APPLICABLE YEAR'S BASE STUDENT COST, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH ALL OF THESE PROVISIONS SHALL TAKE EFFECT OR BE REPEALED.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

NONCONCURRENCE

H. 4450 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty, Harrell, Merrill, Walker, Ballentine, Haley, Chellis, E.H. Pitts, Townsend, Clark, Altman, Bailey, Bales, Bingham, Bowers, Brady, Cato, Ceips, Clyburn, Coleman, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Hagood, Harrison, Haskins, Herbkersman, Hinson, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lucas, Mahaffey, Martin, Phillips, Pinson, M.A. Pitts, Rhoad, Sandifer, Scarborough, G.M. Smith, J.R. Smith, Thompson, Toole, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, White, Whitmire, Young, W.D. Smith, Kirsh, Huggins, Hamilton, McGee and Stewart: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 29, ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO THE LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TAXES UPON REAL PROPERTY MUST BE ASSESSED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE METHODS AS PROVIDED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN ARTICLE X OF THE STATE CONSTITUTION; TO AMEND SECTIONS 1 AND 3 OF ARTICLE X, RELATING TO FINANCE AND TAXATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REQUIREMENT THAT TAXATION OF REAL PROPERTY MUST BE UNIFORM APPLIES TO PROPERTY WITHIN A TAXING JURISDICTION RATHER THAN STATEWIDE; TO AMEND SECTION 6 OF ARTICLE X, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL ESTABLISH METHODS OF VALUATION FOR COUNTIES TO SELECT FROM FOR ASSESSMENT OF REAL PROPERTY WITHIN THEIR JURISDICTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY BY LAW SHALL PROVIDE FOR THE TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND PROCEDURES TO IMPLEMENT THE ABOVE PROVISIONS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 3, ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW A COUNTY GOVERNING BODY TO LEVY A SALES AND USE TAX IMPOSED FOR SCHOOL OPERATIONS AND COUNTY OPERATIONS IN ANY POLITICAL SUBDIVISION LOCATED IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHIN THE COUNTY IN ORDER TO PROVIDE ALL CLASSES OF PROPERTY, EXCEPT FOR FEE IN LIEU OF PROPERTY TAXES, A CREDIT FOR AD VALOREM TAXES, AND TO ALLOW THIS CREDIT AND RESCISSION PURSUANT ONLY TO A REFERENDUM HELD IN A COUNTY IN THE MANNER THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PROVIDES BY LAW.

The House returned the Joint Resolution with amendments.

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.

READ THE THIRD TIME, ORDERED ENROLLED
FOR RATIFICATION

H. 3977 (Word version) -- Reps. Thompson, Simrill, Sandifer, Cobb-Hunter, Wilkins, Leach, Hosey, Altman, Emory, Hamilton, Harrison, Lucas, Martin, McGee, Merrill, J.M. Neal, Ott, Perry, M.A. Pitts, Scarborough, G.R. Smith, Taylor, Townsend, White, Whitmire, Mitchell, Coates, McLeod, Umphlett, Mahaffey, Battle, Ballentine, Clark and Clemmons: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 23, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY BY ADDING CHAPTER 23, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL, TO ESTABLISH A PROGRAM OF TRAINING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS AND OTHER PERSONS EMPLOYED IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE COUNCIL SHALL OVERSEE THE ACTIVITIES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY; TO AMEND SECTION 6-11-340, RELATING TO PROTECTION OF SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY" FOR "CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY"; TO AMEND SECTION 23-28-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TRAINING COURSES FOR RESERVE OFFICERS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL" FOR "SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY"; TO AMEND SECTION 23-28-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TRAINING PROVIDED FOR RESERVE OFFICERS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL" FOR "SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND "TRAINING COUNCIL" FOR "TRAINING ADVISORY COUNCIL"; TO AMEND SECTION 23-47-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO 911 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL (CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY)" FOR "CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND "LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL" FOR "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY"; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-18-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL" FOR "SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND TO REPEAL ARTICLE 9, CHAPTER 6, TITLE 23, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY'S DIVISION OF TRAINING AND CONTINUING EDUCATION.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the third reading of the Bill.

Recorded Vote

Senators MOORE and REESE asked unanimous consent to make a motion to be granted leave to be recorded as voting "Aye" on the roll call vote on the question of the motion to table Amendment No. 1 on Tuesday, May 16, 2006.

There was no objection and the vote was recorded.

Senator LEVENTIS moved that the provisions of Rule 26 be waived in order to take up a further amendment.

Senator LEVENTIS explained the amendment.

Point of Order

Senator ELLIOTT raised a Point of Order that the amendment was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the Bill.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

The amendment was ruled out of order.

The Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered enrolled for Ratification.

DEBATE INTERRUPTED

H. 3588 (Word version) -- Reps. Whipper, Sinclair, J.H. Neal, Brady, Barfield, Weeks, Hosey, Govan, Lucas, Harrison, Anderson, Bowers, Breeland, Hamilton, Haskins, Hayes, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Phillips, Pinson, W.D. Smith, Taylor, Walker, Bailey and Clemmons: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-1-110 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT COMMON LAW MARRIAGE IN THE STATE MAY NOT BE RECOGNIZED ON AND AFTER JANUARY 1, 2006, AND TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR A COMMON LAW MARRIAGE EXISTING AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2005; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 20-1-360 RELATING TO THE VALIDITY OF A MARRIAGE CONTRACTED WITHOUT THE ISSUANCE OF A LICENSE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Judiciary.

Senator RITCHIE explained the committee amendment.

Senator RANKIN argued contra to the adoption of the committee amendment.

PRESIDENT Pro Tempore PRESIDES

At 3:51 P.M., Senator McCONNELL assumed the Chair.

Senator RANKIN argued contra to the adoption of the committee amendment.

Motion Under Rule 15A Failed

At 4:22 P.M., Senator MARTIN moved under Rule 15A to set a time certain of 4:37 P.M. to vote on the entire matter of H. 3977.

Senator RANKIN resumed arguing contra to the adoption of the committee amendment.

PRESIDENT PRESIDES

At 4:28 P.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.

Senator RANKIN resumed arguing contra to the adoption of the committee amendment.

The time had arrived to vote on the motion under Rule 15A.

At 4:42 P.M., the "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 17; Nays 20

AYES

Alexander                 Bryant                    Campsen
Courson                   Cromer                    Fair
Grooms                    Hawkins                   Hayes
Leatherman                Martin                    Mescher
O'Dell                    Peeler                    Richardson
Ritchie                   Ryberg

Total--17

NAYS

Anderson                  Drummond                  Elliott
Ford                      Hutto                     Jackson
Knotts                    Land                      Lourie
Malloy                    McConnell                 McGill
Patterson                 Pinckney                  Rankin
Reese                     Setzler                   Short
Verdin                    Williams

Total--20

Having failed to receive the necessary vote, the motion under Rule 15A failed.

Senator RANKIN resumed arguing contra to the adoption of the committee amendment.

On motion of Senator McCONNELL, with unanimous consent, debate was interrupted by adjournment, with Senator RANKIN retaining the floor.

STATEWIDE APPOINTMENTS
Recalled And Confirmed

On motion of Senator MESCHER, the following appointments were recalled from the General Committee and taken up for immediate consideration.

Having received a favorable report from the Senators representing the 1st Congressional District, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Prisoner of War Commission, with term to commence July 1, 2003, and to expire July 1, 2007

1st Congressional District:

Reginald B. Salisbury, 2097 Cypress Camp Ground, Ridgeville, S.C. 29472 VICE Charles Youngblood (deceased)

Having received a favorable report from the Senators representing the 3rd Congressional District, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Reappointment, South Carolina Prisoner of War Commission, with term to commence July 1, 2005, and to expire July 1, 2009

3rd Congressional District:

Talmadge P. Callison, 2719 Country Farm Rd., Greenwood, S.C. 29646

Having received a favorable report from the Senators representing the 6th Congressional District, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Reappointment, South Carolina Prisoner of War Commission, with term to commence July 1, 2005, and to expire July 1, 2009

6th Congressional District:

Charles R. Murray, 200 Carolina Ave., St. George, S.C. 29477

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senators SHEHEEN, ALEXANDER, ANDERSON, BRYANT, CAMPSEN, CLEARY, COURSON, CROMER, DRUMMOND, ELLIOTT, FAIR, FORD, GREGORY, GROOMS, HAWKINS, HAYES, HUTTO, JACKSON, KNOTTS, LAND, LEATHERMAN, LEVENTIS, LOURIE, MALLOY, MARTIN, MATTHEWS, McCONNELL, McGILL, MESCHER, MOORE, O'DELL, PATTERSON, PEELER, PINCKNEY, RANKIN, REESE, RICHARDSON, RITCHIE, RYBERG, SCOTT, SETZLER, SHORT, J. VERNE SMITH, THOMAS, VERDIN and WILLIAMS, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mrs. Elizabeth Wilkins of Cayce, S.C. Known affectionately as "Miss Betty" to many of her colleagues and friends, she was executive secretary to Senator L. MARION GRESSETTE, Senator REMBERT C. DENNIS, Senator DONALD HOLLAND and Lt. Governor Nick Theodore during her 30 years of dedicated state service.

ADJOURNMENT

At 5:14 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.

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