South Carolina General Assembly
117th Session, 2007-2008
Journal of the House of Representatives


Printed Page 1086 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

Thursday, February 22, 2007
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

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

Our thought for today is from Isaiah 50:4: "He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ears to listen like one being taught."
Let us pray. Loving God, thank You for waking me each new day; help me to listen to Your word and act on it to help those in need. Provide these men and women with the tools to accomplish great things for our State and her people. Bless our Nation, President, State, Governor, Speaker and all who serve in these halls of government. Hold our defenders of freedom in Your arms and protect them as they protect us. In the name of our Lord. Amen.

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

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

MOTION ADOPTED

Rep. J. H. NEAL moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Councilman Louis Fleming of Sumter, which was agreed to.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 3571 (Word version) -- Reps. Barfield, Agnew, Alexander, Allen, Anderson, Anthony, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Battle, Bedingfield, Bingham, Bowen, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Brantley, Breeland, G. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Crawford, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Funderburk, Gambrell, Govan, Gullick, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Hart, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard,


Printed Page 1087 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kelly, Kennedy, Kirsh, Knight, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, Moss, Mulvaney, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rice, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sellers, Shoopman, Simrill, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Spires, Stavrinakis, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Umphlett, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Williams, Witherspoon and Young: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND TAIWAN ON ITS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE GLOBAL ECONOMY, SUCH AS THE PROMOTION OF WORLD PEACE, LIBERTY, AND HUMAN RIGHTS, AND TO SUPPORT TAIWAN'S EFFORTS TO JOIN THE UNITED NATIONS, THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS.
The Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

The following Bills and Joint Resolution were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:

H. 3572 (Word version) -- Reps. Hagood, Rutherford, Bales, Barfield, Branham, G. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Coleman, Edge, Gullick, Hardwick, Hayes, Jefferson, Jennings, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Mack, McLeod, Ott, Pinson, Sandifer, Scott, W. D. Smith, Spires, Talley and White: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 22, TITLE 17, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAM BY DESIGNATING THE EXISTING SECTIONS AS ARTICLE 1 AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 SO AS TO CREATE THE "TRAFFIC DIVERSION PROGRAM ACT", TO PROVIDE THAT EACH SOLICITOR HAS THE AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH A PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WHO COMMIT TRAFFIC-RELATED OFFENSES PUNISHABLE BY A FINE OR LOSS OF POINTS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE SOLICITOR IS AUTHORIZED TO CONTRACT FOR SERVICES WITH THE APPROPRIATE MUNICIPALITY OR COUNTY, AND TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE OPERATION OF A TRAFFIC


Printed Page 1088 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

DIVERSION PROGRAM AND REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS DESIRING TO ENTER A PROGRAM.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 3574 (Word version) -- Rep. Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-20-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "INDEX OF TAXPAYING ABILITY" TO PROVIDE THAT THE INDEX IS COMPRISED OF THREE EQUALLY WEIGHTED COMPONENTS THAT MEASURE ASSESSED VALUE, REDUCED AND FREE LUNCH, AND REAL WAGES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 59-20-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE COMPUTATION OF THE REQUIRED LOCAL REVENUE IN SUPPORT OF THE FOUNDATION PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMPUTATION SHALL EQUALLY WEIGH EACH OF THE THREE COMPONENTS OF THE INDEX OF TAXPAYING ABILITY.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

H. 3575 (Word version) -- Reps. Young, Harrell, Anthony, Clyburn, Lucas, J. M. Neal, Owens, E. H. Pitts, Taylor, White and Chellis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-3-240, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE GOVERNOR'S REMOVAL OF PERSONS APPOINTED TO CERTAIN STATE OFFICES, FOR CERTAIN REASONS, SO AS TO ADD DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONERS TO THIS LIST OF PERSONS WHO MAY BE REMOVED FROM OFFICE BY THE GOVERNOR; TO AMEND SECTION 1-30-10, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENTS OF STATE GOVERNMENT AND THEIR GOVERNING BODIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE GOVERNING STRUCTURE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION; TO AMEND SECTION 1-30-105, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES AND PROVIDE FOR THE ELECTION OF ITS GOVERNING AUTHORITY UNTIL FEBRUARY 15, 2008; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS WHO MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTEREST, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT ENGINEERS MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTEREST; TO AMEND SECTION 11-11-150, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CALCULATING


Printed Page 1089 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

ESTIMATED STATE AND CORPORATE INCOME TAX REVENUES, AND THE TRUST FUND FOR TAX RELIEF, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FORTY MILLION DOLLARS IN GENERAL FUND REVENUE COLLECTED DURING CERTAIN FISCAL YEARS MUST BE CREDITED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND DISTRIBUTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 57-11-410; TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-710, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES EXEMPTED FROM PURCHASING ITEMS THROUGH THE CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER, SO AS TO REVISE THE LIST OF DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS THAT ARE SUBJECT TO THIS PROVISION, AND TO GRANT EXEMPTIONS TO COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEES, COUNCILS ON GOVERNMENTS, AND THE SOUTH CAROLINA TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE BANK; TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-1230, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE AUDITING OF STATE PROCUREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PROCUREMENT AUDITS SHALL VERIFY THAT PROCUREMENT CODE EXEMPTIONS GRANTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ARE VALID; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-10, RELATING TO DEFINITION OF TERMS THAT RELATE TO THE STATE'S MOTOR VEHICLE LAWS, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DIRECTOR" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION"; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-20, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A DIVISION OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND AN INTERNAL AUDIT DIVISION WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-40, RELATING TO CERTAIN ACTIONS COMMITTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION OR DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES WHICH ARE UNLAWFUL, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT'S COMMISSION AND ITS EMPLOYEES ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PROVISIONS THAT GOVERN THE CONDUCT OF LOBBYISTS, PUBLIC OFFICIALS, AND EMPLOYEES; BY ADDING SECTION 57-1-305 SO AS TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS THAT A PERSON MUST POSSESS BEFORE HE MAY BE ELECTED AS A DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONER; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-310, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF DEPARTMENT OF

Printed Page 1090 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

TRANSPORTATION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONERS ARE ELECTED, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROCESS OF ELECTING COMMISSIONERS AND THEIR SUCCESSORS TO INCLUDE THE SCREENING OF CANDIDATES BY THE TRANSPORTATION REVIEW COMMITTEE AND THE ELECTION OF COMMISSIONERS BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-330, RELATING TO ELECTION OF DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONERS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES THAT THE COMMISSIONERS MUST BE ELECTED BY THE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS FROM EACH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, TO LIMIT THE PERIOD THAT A PERSON MAY SERVE AS A COMMISSIONER TO NOT MORE THAN TWO THREE-YEAR TERMS OR NOT MORE THAN SIX YEARS, TO ESTABLISH SEVEN HIGHWAY ENGINEERING DISTRICTS FROM WHICH COMMISSIONERS MUST BE ELECTED, TO PROVIDE FOR THE ELECTION OF THE COMMISSION'S CHAIRMAN AND HIS TERM OF SERVICE AS CHAIRMAN, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES FOR THE ELECTION OF AN AT-LARGE COMMISSIONER WHO SERVES AT THE PLEASURE OF THE GOVERNOR, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION SHALL NOTIFY CERTAIN OFFICIALS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE TRANSPORTATION REVIEW COMMITTEE WHEN A COMMISSION VACANCY OCCURS; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-350, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION'S SEAL, RULES, PROCEDURES, AND REIMBURSEMENT FOR EXPENSES, SO AS TO REVISE THE AMOUNT OF COMPENSATION COMMISSIONERS MUST RECEIVE FOR THEIR SERVICE, AND TO PROVIDE A LIST OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES THAT MUST BE PERFORMED BY THE COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-410, RELATING TO THE EMPLOYMENT OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION BY THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TITLE OF THIS PERSON FROM DIRECTOR TO SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THIS PERSON MUST BE APPOINTED BY AND SERVE AT THE PLEASURE OF THE GOVERNOR; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-450, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DEPUTY DIRECTORS BY THE

Printed Page 1091 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

DEPARTMENT'S DIRECTOR, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS DUTY SHALL BECOME THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION EXCEPT FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF THE INTERNAL AUDIT DIRECTOR AND THE INTERNAL AUDITORS WHO SHALL REPORT TO AND SERVE AT THE PLEASURE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-490, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION'S ANNUAL AUDIT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE AUDITOR SHALL CONDUCT A PERFORMANCE AND COMPLIANCE AUDIT OF CERTAIN DIVISIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT COPIES OF ALL AUDITS MUST BE MADE AVAILABLE TO CERTAIN COMMITTEES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 1, TITLE 57 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE TRANSPORTATION REVIEW COMMITTEE, ITS COMPOSITION, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS POWER AND DUTY TO REVIEW CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 57-3-10, RELATING TO THE DIVISIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DIVISIONS OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND INTERNAL AUDIT; TO AMEND SECTION 57-3-20, RELATING TO THE RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION'S DIVISION DEPUTY DIRECTORS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE DIVISION DEPUTY DIRECTORS FOR HUMAN RESOURCES AND INTERNAL AUDITS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 11, TITLE 57 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION RECEIVES PURSUANT TO SECTION 11-11-150(H); TO REPEAL SECTIONS 57-1-320 AND 57-1-325, RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONERS WHEN A COUNTY IS DIVIDED AMONG MORE THAN ONE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, AND TO THE MEETING OF THE VARIOUS LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS TO ELECT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONERS; AND TO PROVIDE THE CODE COMMISSIONER WITH AUTHORITY TO MAKE CERTAIN TECHNICAL CHANGES.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

Printed Page 1092 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

H. 3576 (Word version) -- Reps. E. H. Pitts, Scott, Cotty, Bales, G. Brown, Cobb-Hunter, Harrison, Herbkersman, Perry, Talley, Vick, Viers and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 53-1-150, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EXEMPTION OF CERTAIN COUNTIES FROM PROVISIONS OF LAW REGULATING ACTIVITIES ON SUNDAY, SO AS TO REDUCE THE REQUIRED AMOUNT OF ACCOMMODATIONS TAX REVENUES COLLECTED IN A COUNTY DURING A FISCAL YEAR WHICH EXEMPTS A COUNTY FROM THESE PROVISIONS OF LAW REGULATING ACTIVITIES ON SUNDAY.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

S. 66 (Word version) -- Senators Martin, Cromer, Vaughn, Knotts, Cleary, Leatherman, Verdin, Fair and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 61-4-90 AND 61-6-4070 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE TO A MINOR, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO TRANSFER AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE TO A PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE YEARS REGARDLESS OF THE MINOR'S INTENT.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

S. 437 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, RELATING TO LICENSURE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS, ACCOUNTING PRACTITIONERS AND REGISTRATION OF ACCOUNTING FIRMS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3092, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 3573 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, Perry, Agnew, Alexander, Allen, Anderson, Anthony, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bedingfield, Bingham, Bowen, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Brantley, Breeland, G. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis,


Printed Page 1093 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Crawford, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Funderburk, Gambrell, Govan, Gullick, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Hart, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kelly, Kennedy, Kirsh, Knight, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, Moss, Mulvaney, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Ott, Owens, Parks, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rice, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sellers, Shoopman, Simrill, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Spires, Stavrinakis, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Umphlett, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Williams, Witherspoon and Young: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MR. DEAN KAMEN, WORLD-RENOWNED INVENTOR, FOR HIS OUTSTANDING ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE AND FOR HIS MANY INNOVATIVE MEDICAL DEVICES, WHICH ARE EXPANDING THE FRONTIERS OF HEALTH CARE WORLDWIDE.

The Resolution was adopted.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 3577 (Word version) -- Rep. Harvin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND COMMEND THE MEMBERS AND STAFF OF THE CLARENDON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON THEIR MANY IMMEASURABLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THEIR COMMUNITY AND TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO RECOGNIZE THE OCCASION OF THE CLARENDON COUNTY CHAMBER'S VISIT TO COLUMBIA ON FEBRUARY 28, 2007, AS CLARENDON COUNTY CHAMBER AT THE CAPITOL DAY.

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


Printed Page 1094 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

ROLL CALL

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

Agnew                  Alexander              Allen
Anthony                Bales                  Ballentine
Bannister              Barfield               Battle
Bedingfield            Bingham                Bowen
Bowers                 Branham                Brantley
Breeland               G. Brown               R. Brown
Cato                   Ceips                  Chalk
Chellis                Clemmons               Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter            Coleman                Cooper
Cotty                  Crawford               Dantzler
Delleney               Duncan                 Funderburk
Gambrell               Gullick                Hagood
Haley                  Hamilton               Hardwick
Harrell                Harrison               Hart
Harvin                 Haskins                Hayes
Herbkersman            Hinson                 Hiott
Hodges                 Hosey                  Howard
Huggins                Jefferson              Jennings
Kelly                  Kennedy                Kirsh
Knight                 Limehouse              Littlejohn
Loftis                 Lowe                   Mack
Mahaffey               McLeod                 Merrill
Miller                 Mitchell               Moss
Mulvaney               J. H. Neal             J. M. Neal
Neilson                Ott                    Owens
Parks                  Perry                  Pinson
E. H. Pitts            M. A. Pitts            Rice
Sandifer               Scarborough            Scott
Sellers                Shoopman               Simrill
Skelton                D. C. Smith            F. N. Smith
G. M. Smith            G. R. Smith            J. R. Smith
W. D. Smith            Spires                 Stavrinakis
Talley                 Taylor                 Thompson
Toole                  Umphlett               Viers
Walker                 Weeks                  White
Whitmire               Williams               Witherspoon
Young


Printed Page 1095 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

STATEMENT OF ATTENDANCE

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Thursday, February 22.

James E. Stewart                  Todd Rutherford
James Lucas                       Jackson "Seth"  Whipper
Ralph Davenport                   Tracy Edge
Ted Vick                          Carl Anderson
Jerry Govan

Total Present--118

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

The SPEAKER granted Rep. BRADY a leave of absence for the day for the purpose of attending a mandatory meeting of the Executive Board of the Council of State Governments as the co-chair of the CSG of Public Safety and Justice Task Force.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

The SPEAKER granted Rep. LEACH a leave of absence for the day due to illness.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

The SPEAKER granted Rep. FRYE a leave of absence for the day due to illness.

DOCTOR OF THE DAY

Announcement was made that Dr. Robert Livingston III of Newberry was the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Rep. PINSON presented to the House the Greenwood High School Football Team, the 2006 Division II, Class AAAA Champions, their coaches and other school officials.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Rep. PERRY and the Aiken Delegation presented to the House the University of South Carolina-Aiken "Pacers" Golf Team, the 2006 Division II NCAA Champions, their coach and other school officials.


Printed Page 1096 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

CO-SPONSORS ADDED AND REMOVED

In accordance with House Rule 5.2 below:

"5.2   Every bill before presentation shall have its title endorsed; every report, its title at length; every petition, memorial, or other paper, its prayer or substance; and, in every instance, the name of the member presenting any paper shall be endorsed and the papers shall be presented by the member to the Speaker at the desk. A member may add his name to a bill or resolution or a co-sponsor of a bill or resolution may remove his name at any time prior to the bill or resolution receiving passage on second reading. The member or co-sponsor shall notify the Clerk of the House in writing of his desire to have his name added or removed from the bill or resolution. The Clerk of the House shall print the member's or co-sponsor's written notification in the House Journal. The removal or addition of a name does not apply to a bill or resolution sponsored by a committee."

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3136 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   JEFFERSON

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3034 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   WHIPPER

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3094 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   MAHAFFEY

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3212 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   SIMRILL


Printed Page 1097 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3212 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   BEDINGFIELD

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3273 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   OWENS

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3284 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   MULVANEY

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3309 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   PHILLIPS

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3310 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   OWENS

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3310 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   RICE

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3310 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   VICK

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3310 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   SCARBOROUGH


Printed Page 1098 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3346 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   BOWERS

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3355 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   HASKINS

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3486 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   FUNDERBURK

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3493 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   COTTY

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3499 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   OWENS

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

Bill Number:   H. 3567 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/22/07   GULLICK

CO-SPONSOR REMOVED

Bill Number:   H. 3294 (Word version)
Date:   REMOVE:
02/22/07   BOWERS

ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bills were taken up, read the second time, and ordered to a third reading:

H. 3558 (Word version) -- Reps. Lowe, Williams, Branham and Alexander: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERMS OF OFFICE OF ELECTED


Printed Page 1099 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF FLORENCE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT FOUR IS INCREASED FROM THREE TO FOUR YEARS FOR ALL TRUSTEES ELECTED BEGINNING WITH ELECTIONS HELD ON AND AFTER 2007.

H. 3564 (Word version) -- Reps. Davenport, Walker, Anthony, Kelly, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Mitchell, W. D. Smith and Talley: A BILL TO CREATE THE SPARTANBURG COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS AND REGISTRATION, TO PROVIDE THAT THE CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE SPARTANBURG COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION AND THE SPARTANBURG COUNTY REGISTRATION BOARD SHALL ACT AS THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE NEW SPARTANBURG COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS AND REGISTRATION UNTIL THE MEMBERS OF THE NEW BOARD ARE APPOINTED, AT WHICH TIME THE TERMS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION AND REGISTRATION BOARD EXPIRES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD, AND TO ABOLISH THE ELECTION COMMISSION AND THE REGISTRATION BOARD FOR SPARTANBURG COUNTY AND DEVOLVE THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION AND THE REGISTRATION BOARD UPON THE SPARTANBURG COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS AND REGISTRATION.

S. 330 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Peeler, Short and Gregory: 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. 132 (Word version) -- Senator Mescher: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 50-13-390, TO PROVIDE THAT NO MORE THAN ONE ARKANSAS BLUE CATFISH OVER THIRTY-FOUR INCHES MAY BE TAKEN FROM THE WATERS OF LAKES MARION AND MOULTRIE BY ANY ONE PERSON IN ONE DAY, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE


Printed Page 1100 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION APPLY TO COMMERCIAL AS WELL AS RECREATIONAL FISHERMEN.

Rep. M. A. PITTS explained the Bill.

S. 294 (Word version) -- Senator Fair: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-8303, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THOSE OFFENSES COMMITTED BY JUVENILES FOR WHICH RELEASE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE IS DETERMINED BY THE BOARD OF JUVENILE PAROLE OR THE DEPARTMENT, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT RELEASE FOR THE OFFENSE OF ASSAULT AND BATTERY OF A HIGH AND AGGRAVATED NATURE MUST BE DETERMINED BY THE BOARD; AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-8305, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO REVIEW AND RELEASE PROCEDURES FOR THE BOARD AND DEPARTMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATUTORY PROCEDURES APPLY TO THE BOARD AND THAT THE DEPARTMENT SHALL ESTABLISH POLICIES AND PROCEDURES GOVERNING ITS REVIEW AND RELEASE PROCEDURES.

Rep. G. M. SMITH explained the Bill.

H. 3558--ORDERED TO BE READ THIRD TIME TOMORROW

On motion of Rep. CRAWFORD, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 3558 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

H. 3564--ORDERED TO BE READ THIRD TIME TOMORROW

On motion of Rep. DAVENPORT, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 3564 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

S. 330--ORDERED TO BE READ THIRD TIME TOMORROW

On motion of Rep. KIRSH, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that S. 330 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

S. 132--ORDERED TO BE READ THIRD TIME TOMORROW

On motion of Rep. M. A. PITTS, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that S. 132 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.


Printed Page 1101 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

S. 294--ORDERED TO BE READ THIRD TIME TOMORROW

On motion of Rep. G. M. SMITH, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that S. 294 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

H. 3034--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3034 (Word version) -- Reps. Brady, Haskins, Cobb-Hunter, Cotty, Funderburk, Hagood, Stavrinakis, Gullick, Bowers and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 48-52-690 TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY EFFICIENCY ACT SO AS TO REQUIRE THE APPLICATION OF "GREEN BUILDING" OR COMPARABLE STANDARDS TO STANDARDS OR MEASURES OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND ENERGY CONSERVATION TO BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTED ON STATE PROPERTY WITH CONSTRUCTION BUDGETS OF MORE THAN FIFTEEN MILLION DOLLARS AND TO PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS OF CERTAIN STATE-FUNDED STRUCTURES.

The Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\AGM\ 18770MM07):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting clause and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   Article 6, Chapter 52 of Title 48 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 48-52-690.   (A)   As used in this chapter, 'energy efficiency' or 'energy conservation' standards, guidelines, or measures must meet the requirements of this section. Certification of goods or products, development and reporting of consumption plans and goals, evaluation of a guaranteed energy savings contract, or other purpose used in the design and construction of a new building constructed on state property with a construction budget of more than fifteen million dollars must display due diligence for the achievement of:

(1)   at least a certified rating as defined by the United States Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system including, but not limited to or specifically required, the following;

(a)   Under LEED Credit MR 6, one point may be awarded for the use of renewable, bio-based materials for five percent of the


Printed Page 1102 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

total value of all the products used in the project which are either residuals of or products grown or harvested under a recognized sustainable management system including, but not limited to, the Forest Stewardship Council, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program, the American Tree Farm System, the Canadian Standards Association, the Organic Trade Association, and the Association for Bamboo in Construction;

(b)   Under LEED Credit MR 7, one point may be awarded for the use of renewable, bio-based raw materials certified in accordance with one or more premier certification programs for environmental management, for fifty percent of the total value of all bio-based materials and products used in the project. Certification programs include, but are not limited to, the Forest Stewardship Council, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the American Tree Farm System, the Canadian Standards Association, the Organic Trade Association, and the Association for Bamboo in Construction;

(c)   The applicable vendor's or manufacturer's certification documentation must be provided; or

(2)   at least a comparable rating to the LEED certified rating or at least a one globe rating as defined by the Green Globes green building rating system and is a nationally recognized, consensus-based green building guideline, standard, or system approved by the State Budget and Control Board.

(B)   A commissioning agent, which is employed and compensated by the owner of the project, must evaluate a new building constructed on state property with a construction budget of more than fifteen million dollars to ensure compliance with the requirements of subsection (A). For purposes of this section, the architect, engineer, or other designer of the project is responsible for working with the owner of the project and the commissioning agent with respect to compliance with this section.

(C)   This section does not apply to:

(1)   design and construction of parking garages or outdoor sports facilities. For purposes of this section, 'outdoor sports facilities' means an area designed and equipped for active recreation, athletics, entertainment, or education, or any number of them, including, but not limited to, baseball, softball, soccer, football, tennis, track and field, swimming, and equestrian events.

(2)   South Carolina State Ports Authority, South Carolina Public Service Authority, South Carolina Research Authority, South


Printed Page 1103 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

Carolina Department of Corrections, and a public entity exempted by the Budget and Control Board;

(3)   projects exempted by the Budget and Control Board as the result of evidence that compliance with this section is clearly not in the best interest of the project; or

(4)   to projects in design or being constructed on the effective date of this act.

Section 48-52-695.   The State Budget and Control Board shall administer and enforce the provisions of this article. The board may adopt rules and promulgate regulations to comply with the goals provided in Section 48-52-690."
SECTION   2.   Upon approval by the Governor this act takes effect on July 1, 2009. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. HUGGINS explained the amendment.

POINT OF ORDER

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

H. 3456--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3456 (Word version) -- Reps. M. A. Pitts, Pinson and Parks: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 31, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT, BY ADDING CHAPTER 20 ENACTING THE "ABANDONED MANUFACTURED HOME REMOVAL ACT" SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR DEMOLITION AND DISPOSAL OF ABANDONED MANUFACTURED HOMES AND PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE NOTICE AND OTHER PROCEDURES NECESSARY FOR THIS ACT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-49-85, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO UNCOLLECTIBLE REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COUNTY AUDITOR TO WAIVE AND REMOVE FROM THE TAX DUPLICATE CURRENT AND DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES,


Printed Page 1104 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

ASSESSMENTS, COSTS, AND FEES FROM A MANUFACTURED HOME DEMOLISHED AND DISPOSED OF PURSUANT TO THE ABANDONED MANUFACTURED HOME REMOVAL ACT.

The Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\ 9786HTC07):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking Sections 31-20-20, 31-20-30, 31-20-60, and 31-20-70, as contained in SECTION 2, beginning on page 2 and inserting:
/ SECTION 31-20-20.   As used in this chapter:

(1)   'Abandoned manufactured home' means a manufactured home, located on property of a third party, which has not been occupied for a period of at least sixty consecutive days and:

(a)   is not connected to electricity;

(b)   is not connected to a source of safe potable water supply sufficient for normal residential needs;

(c)   is not connected to a waste water disposal system as approved by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control; or

(d)   is in a state of disrepair and does not meet the minimum habitability standards as adopted by the South Carolina Manufactured Housing Board.

(2)   'Demolished' means being permanently destroyed so that a manufactured home is no longer capable of being used or occupied for any purpose.

(3)   'Landowner' means the owner of real property on which an abandoned manufactured home is located.

(4)   'Manufactured home' has the meaning provided in Section 40-29-20(9).

Section 31-20-30.   If a landowner desires to dispose of an abandoned manufactured home located on the landowner's property, the landowner shall post a notice on each door of the manufactured home for sixty consecutive days reading substantially as follows:
'NOTICE
Disposition/Demolition Permit for this mobile home to be applied for by (applicant), (applicant's address), (applicant's telephone number), sixty days from the date of this notice.
(Date of Notice)'

Section 31-20-60.   The owner of the manufactured home and any lienholder have sixty days to respond, after the later of (1) the posting


Printed Page 1105 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

of the notice pursuant to Section 31-20-30 or (2) the mailing of the notice by certified mail, return receipt requested. If none of the persons or entities entitled to receive notice responds within that time, the landowner may demolish the manufactured home and dispose of it without incurring any liability to the owner or the lienholder, unless the value of the manufactured home exceeded five thousand dollars on the date of disposal and the landowner was grossly negligent in disposing of the manufactured home.

Section 31-20-70.   (A)   Upon application by a landowner for a permit to move an abandoned manufactured home pursuant to this article, the county shall inspect the home to verify that the home meets the requirements of Section 31-20-20(1) and shall provide written verification to the licensing agent who shall retain a copy of the verification. The licensing agent shall issue a permit allowing the abandoned manufactured home to be permanently demolished and disposed of. The licensing agent is not required to inquire as to whether or not the landowner has complied with the requirements of this chapter. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. HUGGINS explained the amendment.

POINT OF ORDER

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

H. 3481--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3481 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, G. Brown, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Dantzler, Haley, Huggins, Leach, Owens, Skelton, G. M. Smith and Witherspoon: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-10-230, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PERSONS WHOM THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 10, TITLE 40, REGULATING FIRE SPRINKLER CONTRACTORS, DO NOT APPLY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CHAPTER 10 DOES NOT APPLY TO PERSONS WHO ARE EMPLOYED BY PUBLIC


Printed Page 1106 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

INSTITUTIONS TO REPAIR, ALTER, MAINTAIN, OR INSPECT FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS.

POINT OF ORDER

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

H. 3021--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3021 (Word version) -- Reps. Coleman and Anthony: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 50-3-185 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TO THE EXTENT THE BOARD OR THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES HAS THE AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY UNDER LAW TO SET THE OPEN AND CLOSED SEASONS FOR THE TAKING OF FISH OR GAME, THE BAG OR SIZE LIMITS FOR FISH OR GAME TAKEN, OR ANY OTHER CONDITIONS OR LIMITATIONS REGARDING THE TAKING OF FISH OR GAME, THESE SEASONS, LIMITS, OR OTHER CONDITIONS OR LIMITATIONS EXCEPT FOR DOG DRIVING MUST BE THE SAME FOR ALL GAME ZONES WHICH THE BOARD OR DEPARTMENT SETS AND MUST BE CONSISTENT WITH THE PROVISIONS FOR A MAJORITY OF OTHER GAME ZONES WHICH ARE SET BY LAW.

POINT OF ORDER

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

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

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


Printed Page 1107 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

H. 3490--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3490 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, E. H. Pitts, Delleney, Harrison, Hart, Lucas, Rutherford, Sandifer, Stavrinakis, Thompson, Weeks, Whitmire and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 22, TITLE 17, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAM BY DESIGNATING THE EXISTING SECTIONS AS ARTICLE 1 AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 SO AS TO CREATE THE "ALCOHOL EDUCATION PROGRAM ACT", TO PROVIDE THAT EACH SOLICITOR HAS THE AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH A PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WHO COMMIT CERTAIN ALCOHOL-RELATED OFFENSES, AND TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE OPERATION OF A PROGRAM AND REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS DESIRING TO ENTER A PROGRAM.

POINT OF ORDER

Rep. COBB-HUNTER made the Point of Order that the Bill was improperly before the House for consideration since its number and title have not been printed in the House Calendar at least one statewide legislative day prior to second reading.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.

H. 3278--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3278 (Word version) -- Reps. G. R. Smith, Haskins, Bedingfield, Cato, Hamilton, Harrell, Leach, E. H. Pitts, Shoopman, F. N. Smith and Taylor: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-200 SO AS TO PROVIDE A UNIFORM METHOD OF FILLING VACANCIES IN AN ELECTED OR APPOINTED OFFICE WHEN A PERSON MOVES HIS RESIDENCE OUTSIDE OF THE AREA FROM WHICH HE WAS ELECTED OR APPOINTED.


Printed Page 1108 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

POINT OF ORDER

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

H. 3212--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3212 (Word version) -- Reps. Delleney, M. A. Pitts, Haley, Crawford, Chellis, G. R. Smith, Owens, Rice, Weeks, Viers, Simrill and Bedingfield: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 23-31-215, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CONCEALABLE WEAPONS PERMITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT VALID OUT-OF-STATE PERMITS TO CARRY CONCEALABLE WEAPONS HELD BY A RESIDENT OF ANOTHER STATE MUST BE HONORED BY THIS STATE AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT THIS STATE WILL ONLY HONOR OUT-OF-STATE PERMITS ISSUED BY A STATE WITH WHICH SOUTH CAROLINA HAS RECIPROCITY.

POINT OF ORDER

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

H. 3310--AMENDED AND ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3310 (Word version) -- Reps. M. A. Pitts, Duncan, Gambrell, Herbkersman, Sandifer, Whipper, White, Bedingfield, Weeks, Owens, Rice, Vick and Scarborough: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-23-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CARRYING OF HANDGUNS, SO AS TO ALLOW A PERSON TO CARRY A HANDGUN ON HIS PERSON IN A VEHICLE IF HE HAS A VALID CONCEALED WEAPON PERMIT.


Printed Page 1109 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

The Judiciary Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\MS\7171AHB07), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting Section 16-23-20(9)(b), as contained in SECTION 1, page 1, lines 32 through 34, and inserting:
/       (b)   concealed on or about his person, and he has a valid concealed weapon permit pursuant to the provisions of Article 4, Chapter 31, Title 23;" /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

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

The Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

H. 3310--ORDERED TO BE READ THIRD TIME TOMORROW

On motion of Rep. TALLEY, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 3310 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

H. 3135--AMENDED AND ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Joint Resolution was taken up:

H. 3135 (Word version) -- Reps. J. E. Smith, Funderburk and Cotty: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A STUDY COMMITTEE TO DEVELOP A STATEWIDE COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR PERSONS WITH EPILEPSY IN THIS STATE AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP, DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDY COMMITTEE.

The Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\NBD\11302AC07), which was adopted:
Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by deleting subitem (f) in Section 1 (B)(4) and inserting:
/     (f)   Lieutenant Governor's Office on Aging;/
Amend the joint resolution further, by deleting subitem (j) in SECTION 1(B)(4) and inserting:
/     (j)   Protection and Advocacy for People with Disabilities, Inc.;/


Printed Page 1110 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

Amend the joint resolution further, by deleting subitem (b) in SECTION 1(B)(5) and inserting:
/     (b)   South Carolina Independent Living Council, upon the recommendation of the council;/
Amend the joint resolution further, by deleting subitem (e) in SECTION 1(B)(5) and inserting:
/     (e)   a nurse practitioner, upon the recommendation of the South Carolina Nurses Association;/
Amend the joint resolution further, SECTION 1, page 3, immediately after line 28, by inserting:
/(E)   The Department of Health and Human Services shall provide and coordinate staffing for the study committee./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

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

The Joint Resolution, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

H. 3135--ORDERED TO BE READ THIRD TIME TOMORROW

On motion of Rep. COTTY, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 3135 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

S. 408--POINT OF ORDER

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 408 (Word version) -- Senators Short and Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE JOBS TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY'S DESIGNATION MAY NOT DROP MORE THAN ONE TIER IN THE FOLLOWING YEAR AS A RESULT OF THE ANNUAL RANKING AND DESIGNATION OF COUNTIES BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE.

POINT OF ORDER

Rep. MCLEOD made the Point of Order that the Bill was improperly before the House for consideration since its number and title have not


Printed Page 1111 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

been printed in the House Calendar at least one statewide legislative day prior to second reading.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.

H. 3566--POINT OF ORDER

The following Joint Resolution was taken up:

H. 3566 (Word version) -- Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, RELATING TO REPORTING FATALITIES AND MULTIPLE HOSPITALIZATION INCIDENTS TO OSHA, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3105, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

POINT OF ORDER

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

S. 208--RECALLED FROM THE BEAUFORT DELEGATION

On motion of Rep. HERBKERSMAN, with unanimous consent, the following Bill was ordered recalled from the Beaufort Delegation:

S. 208 (Word version) -- Senator Richardson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-110, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN BEAUFORT COUNTY, SO AS TO REVIEW AND RENAME CERTAIN VOTING PRECINCTS OF BEAUFORT COUNTY AND 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, AND TO ADD A PROVISION TO AUTHORIZE THE BEAUFORT COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS AND REGISTRATION, WITH THE APPROVAL OF A MAJORITY OF THE BEAUFORT COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, TO DETERMINE THE


Printed Page 1112 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

POLLING PLACES FOR THE PRECINCTS IN BEAUFORT COUNTY.

H. 3357--RECALLED FROM THE MARLBORO DELEGATION

On motion of Rep. JENNINGS, with unanimous consent, the following Bill was ordered recalled from the Marlboro Delegation:

H. 3357 (Word version) -- Rep. Jennings: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR PAYMENT FOR THE ATTENDANCE OF MEETINGS BY THE MARLBORO COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE.

SENT TO THE SENATE

The following Bill was taken up, read the third time, and ordered sent to the Senate:

H. 3097 (Word version) -- Reps. Rice, Walker, G. R. Smith, Shoopman, Cobb-Hunter, Mahaffey, Cotty, Owens, D. C. Smith, Bedingfield, Bales and Viers: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 16 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM, PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM, PROVIDE FOR COURSES OFFERED FOR CERTAIN CREDIT, PROVIDE FOR THE VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM'S TEACHERS, PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, PROVIDE FOR A STUDY TO DETERMINE THE FEASIBILITY OF PROVIDING THE VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM TO STUDENTS ENROLLED IN ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAMS, PROVIDE FOR AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND PROVIDE FOR AN ON-LINE PROGRAM IN A CHARTER SCHOOL; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-40-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN INFORMATION MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE CHARTER SCHOOL APPLICATION IF A CHARTER SCHOOL OFFERS A PROGRAM OF ON-LINE INSTRUCTION AND PROVIDE THAT CHARTER SCHOOL STUDENTS MAY ENROLL IN THE VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM PURSUANT TO PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS.


Printed Page 1113 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

MOTION PERIOD

The motion period was dispensed with on motion of Rep. HARDWICK.

H. 3267--AMENDED AND ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3267 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Cotty, Delleney, McLeod, Simrill and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 14-5-610, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DIVISION OF THE STATE INTO SIXTEEN JUDICIAL CIRCUITS AND ADDITIONAL AT-LARGE JUDGES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF AT-LARGE CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES FROM THIRTEEN TO SIXTEEN; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-1410, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO FAMILY COURT JUDGES ELECTED FROM EACH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF FAMILY COURT JUDGES IN THE FIFTH, SEVENTH, AND SIXTEENTH CIRCUITS BY ONE ADDITIONAL JUDGE.

The Judiciary Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\MS\7155AHB07), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting Section 20-7-1410, as contained in SECTION 2, lines 4 through 40, and inserting:
/   "Section 20-7-1410.   (A)   The General Assembly shall elect a number of family court judges from each judicial circuit as follows:

First Circuit           Three Judges

Second Circuit       Two Judges

Third Circuit         Three Judges

Fourth Circuit         Three Judges

Fifth Circuit         Four Judges

Sixth Circuit         Two Judges

Seventh Circuit       Three Judges

Eighth Circuit         Three Judges

Ninth Circuit         Six Judges

Tenth Circuit         Three Judges

Eleventh Circuit       Three Judges

Twelfth Circuit       Three Judges

Thirteenth Circuit     Six Judges

Fourteenth Circuit     Three Judges

Fifteenth Circuit       Three Judges


Printed Page 1114 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

Sixteenth Circuit       Two Judges

(B)   In   the following judicial circuits at least one family court judge must be a resident of each county in the circuit: fifth, seventh, tenth, twelfth, thirteenth, fifteenth, and sixteenth. In those judicial circuits made up of three or more counties at least one family court judge must be a resident of one of the counties which does not have the largest population in the circuit. In the ninth circuit, both counties in the circuit must have at least two resident family court judges.

(C)   No county in the sixth circuit shall have more than one resident family court judge.

(D)   In addition to the above judges authorized by this section, there must be three additional family court judges elected by the General Assembly from the State at-large for terms of office of six years. These additional judges must be elected without regard to county or circuit of residence. Each office of the at-large judges is a separate office and is assigned numerical designations of Seat No. 1 through Seat No. 3 respectively."
B.   The three additional judges authorized by the provisions of SECTION   2.A. take office on July 1, 2007, and the Judicial Merit Selection Commission on the effective date of this act shall begin the process of nominating candidates for these judicial offices, and the General Assembly then shall elect these judges from the nominees of the commission so that these judges may take office on July 1, 2007. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

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

Reps. SCOTT and HARRISON proposed the following Amendment No. 2 (Doc Name COUNCIL\MS\7162AHB07), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
/   SECTION   ___.   (A)   There is created a Judicial Circuit Reapportionment Study Committee to review the apportionment of the state's judicial circuits and to examine and evaluate the size of the existing judicial circuits with the goals of keeping counties whole and determining the appropriateness of having the larger counties contained within their own judicial circuits.

(B)   The Judicial Circuit Reapportionment Study Committee must be composed of eleven members appointed as follows:


Printed Page 1115 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

(1)   three members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

(2)   three members of the Senate appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate;

(3)   the Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court;

(4)   two members appointed by the Governor who must be attorneys licensed to practice law in the State;

(5)   one family court judge appointed by the Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court; and

(6)   one circuit court judge appointed by the Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court.

(C)   The Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee shall provide appropriate staff, and the Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee shall provide appropriate staff who shall work with the Office of Research and Statistics to perform the duties of the committee.

(D)   Members of the committee may receive per diem, subsistence, and mileage as provided by law for members of state boards, committees, and commissions.

(E)   The committee shall render its report and recommendations to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Governor no later than January 1, 2008./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

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

Rep. YOUNG proposed the following Amendment No. 3 (Doc Name COUNCIL\AGM\18774MM07), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTIONS 1.B. and 2.B., by deleting SECTIONS 1.B. and 2.B. in their entireties and inserting:
/   B.   The Judicial Merit Selection Commission shall begin the process of nominating candidates for the judicial offices authorized by the provisions of SECTIONS 1.A. and 2.A., and the General Assembly then shall elect these judges from the nominees of the commission; except that, the nominating process may not begin until funding for the additional judges is provided in the general appropriation act. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.


Printed Page 1116 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

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

Pursuant to Rule 7.7 the Yeas and Nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 95; Nays 9

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Agnew                  Alexander              Anderson
Ballentine             Bannister              Barfield
Battle                 Bedingfield            Bingham
Bowers                 Branham                Brantley
G. Brown               R. Brown               Cato
Ceips                  Chalk                  Chellis
Clemmons               Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Coleman                Cooper                 Cotty
Crawford               Dantzler               Davenport
Delleney               Edge                   Funderburk
Gambrell               Gullick                Hagood
Haley                  Hamilton               Hardwick
Harrell                Harrison               Hart
Harvin                 Haskins                Hayes
Herbkersman            Hinson                 Hiott
Hodges                 Hosey                  Howard
Huggins                Jefferson              Jennings
Kelly                  Kennedy                Knight
Littlejohn             Lucas                  Mack
Mahaffey               McLeod                 Miller
Moss                   Mulvaney               J. H. Neal
J. M. Neal             Neilson                Ott
Owens                  Perry                  Rice
Rutherford             Sandifer               Scarborough
Scott                  Sellers                Shoopman
Simrill                D. C. Smith            F. N. Smith
G. M. Smith            G. R. Smith            J. R. Smith
Spires                 Stavrinakis            Stewart
Talley                 Taylor                 Thompson
Vick                   Viers                  Weeks

Printed Page 1117 . . . . . Thursday, February 22, 2007

Whipper                White                  Whitmire
Williams               Young

Total--95

Those who voted in the negative are:

Kirsh                  Loftis                 Merrill
Pinson                 E. H. Pitts            M. A. Pitts
Toole                  Umphlett               Witherspoon

Total--9

So, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

RECORD FOR VOTING

I was not present in the Chamber when the vote was taken on H. 3267, due to court duty. Had I been present, I would have voted "yea" in favor of the Bill.

Rep. Jerry Govan

PROXY VOTE--H. 3267

Pursuant to the provisions of House Rule 7.8, Rep. JENNINGS cast a proxy vote on behalf of Rep. J. E. SMITH in favor of H. 3267.

OBJECTION TO MOTION

Rep. SCOTT asked unanimous consent that H. 3267 (Word version) be read a third time tomorrow.
Rep. KIRSH objected.

Rep. MULVANEY moved that the House do now adjourn, which was agreed to.

RETURNED WITH CONCURRENCE

The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:

H. 3554 (Word version) -- Reps. Agnew and Gambrell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXTEND CONGRATULATIONS TO MR. RODDEY STEVENSON ELLIS, JR., UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS EIGHTY-FIFTH BIRTHDAY AND WISH HIM GOOD HEALTH AND HAPPINESS IN YEARS TO COME.


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H. 3561 (Word version) -- Reps. Brantley, Bowers, Breeland, Davenport, Hamilton, Harvin, Mitchell, Scarborough, Simrill, J. R. Smith and Stavrinakis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPON THE DEATH OF MR. RALPH TUTEN, MAYOR OF RIDGELAND, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

H. 3577 (Word version) -- Rep. Harvin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND COMMEND THE MEMBERS AND STAFF OF THE CLARENDON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON THEIR MANY IMMEASURABLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THEIR COMMUNITY AND TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO RECOGNIZE THE OCCASION OF THE CLARENDON COUNTY CHAMBER'S VISIT TO COLUMBIA ON FEBRUARY 28, 2007, AS CLARENDON COUNTY CHAMBER AT THE CAPITOL DAY.

ADJOURNMENT

At 11:15 a.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. J. H. NEAL, adjourned in memory of Councilman Louis Fleming of Sumter, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.

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