South Carolina General Assembly
122nd Session, 2017-2018
Journal of the Senate

Wednesday, May 3, 2017
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 12:00 Noon, 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 the Chaplain as follows:

Colossians 4:6

"Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person."

Let us pray. Gracious and Loving God, we are thankful for the wisdom of Your word in Scripture. We know that words can have incredible power and clearly Your powerful words have endured for countless generations.

Help us, O God, to follow the example that Your word in Scripture sets for us. Instead of returning anger with anger, help us calmly and thoughtfully to speak words of truth -- words that can effect change in a constructive way.

We know, O God, that words can tear down or build up, words can destroy or repair, words can discourage or instill hope. Help us to remember that, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

Give us this day, O God, the wisdom and the will to not stir up anger but rather to speak gentle words that can heal the hurt that we carry. In Your loving name we pray, Amen.

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

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR

The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:

Local Appointments

Initial Appointment, Oconee County Part-Time Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2017, and to expire April 30, 2021
Daniel J. Pollock, 114 Old Station Rd., West Union, SC 29696

Initial Appointment, Oconee County Part-Time Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2017, and to expire April 30, 2021
Erin Cox Moon, 14007 Cherokee Path Drive, Seneca, SC 29678

Privilege of the Chamber

On motion of Senator DAVIS, on behalf of Senators JOHN MATTHEWS and YOUNG, the Privilege of the Chamber, to that area behind the rail, was extended to Michael Williams and Cordrea Tankersley to honor and congratulate them on their upcoming NFL careers.

Leave of Absence

At 12:05 P.M., Senator SCOTT requested a leave of absence for the day.

Leave of Absence

At 12:05 P.M., Senator MARTIN requested a leave of absence for Senator VERDIN for the day.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator SHEHEEN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

RECALLED

H. 3719 (Word version) -- Reps. Burns, Hiott, Hixon, Chumley, Bannister and G.R. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 48-35-50, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE STATE FORESTER'S AUTHORITY TO DIRECT THAT CERTAIN FIRES NOT BE STARTED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN EXTREME CONDITIONS EXIST, THE STATE FORESTER MAY PROHIBIT ALL OPEN BURNING EXCEPT FIRES USED FOR NONRECREATIONAL PURPOSES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 48-35-60, RELATING TO PENALTIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE STARTING OF UNLAWFUL FIRES, SO AS TO REVISE THE PENALTIES.

Senator CAMPSEN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 4178 (Word version) -- Rep. Martin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-420, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN NEWBERRY COUNTY, SO AS TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THE NAMES OF THESE PRECINCTS MAY BE FOUND AND MAINTAINED BY THE REVENUE AND FISCAL AFFAIRS OFFICE AND TO CORRECT OUTDATED REFERENCES TO THE REVENUE AND FISCAL AFFAIRS OFFICE.

Senator RANKIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 4183 (Word version) -- Reps. McKnight and Ridgeway: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-190, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN CLARENDON COUNTY, SO AS TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THE NAMES OF THESE PRECINCTS MAY BE FOUND AND MAINTAINED BY THE REVENUE AND FISCAL AFFAIRS OFFICE AND TO CORRECT OUTDATED REFERENCES TO THE REVENUE AND FISCAL AFFAIRS OFFICE.

Senator RANKIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

S. 682 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE BRIDGE ON U.S. HIGHWAY 76 OVER JEFFERIES CREEK "JOHN 'JACK' MOULTON ROBINSON, JR. BRIDGE" AND TO ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.

The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

S. 683 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE BRIDGE ON OLD RIVER ROAD THAT CROSSES BARFIELD MILL CREEK IN FLORENCE COUNTY "WILLIAM CLYDE GRAHAM BRIDGE" AND TO ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.

The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 4142 (Word version) -- Reps. Knight, Arrington, Bennett, Jefferson, Mack, Murphy and Whipper: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF LEGARE ROAD AND JIM BILTON BOULEVARD IN DORCHESTER COUNTY "CLAUDE MAJOR, JR. INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS INTERSECTION CONTAINING THIS DESIGNATION.

Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.

The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 3256 (Word version) -- Reps. Jefferson and Daning: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 140 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY ISSUE PALMETTO CROSS SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES.

Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Transportation.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

S. 680 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-260, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN FLORENCE COUNTY, SO AS TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THE NAMES OF THESE PRECINCTS MAY BE FOUND AND MAINTAINED BY THE REVENUE AND FISCAL AFFAIRS OFFICE AND TO CORRECT OUTDATED REFERENCES TO THE REVENUE AND FISCAL AFFAIRS OFFICE.

Senator RANKIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 4160 (Word version) -- Rep. Long: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 417 IN GREENVILLE COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 14 TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH BROOKWOOD POINT PLACE "REVEREND CARLOS BLEASE WATSON MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THIS DESIGNATION.

Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.

The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 688 (Word version) -- Senator McElveen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING 2016 SEASON.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 689 (Word version) -- Fish, Game and Forestry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, RELATING TO TERM AND CONDITIONS FOR THE PUBLIC'S USE OF STATE LAKES AND PONDS OWNED OR LEASED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4727, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 690 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin, Williams, Hembree, Goldfinch and Sabb: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 6, TITLE 61 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS, 1976, RELATING TO TEMPORARY LICENSES, SO AS TO ADD SECTION 61-6-2017 TO AUTHORIZE A TEMPORARY LIQUOR BY THE DRINK LICENSE FOR A FESTIVAL THAT HAS A MAJOR ECONOMIC IMPACT, WHICH INCLUDES THE FESTIVAL PREMISES AND CONTINUES FOR THE DURATION OF THE FESTIVAL, NOT TO EXCEED FIVE DAYS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 691 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ALLOW THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO EXTEND THE RECEIPT OF BALLOTS CAST PURSUANT TO THE UNIFORM AND OVERSEAS CITIZENS ABSENTEE VOTING ACT AND TO EXTEND CERTIFICATION OF THESE FEDERAL SPECIAL ELECTION RESULTS FOR TWO WEEKS FOLLOWING A FEDERAL SPECIAL ELECTION FOR WHICH THE PRIMARY WAS HELD ON MAY 2, 2017.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 692 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT PURSUANT TO SECTION 9, ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE, 1895, WHEN THE RESPECTIVE HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURN ON THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017, NOT LATER THAN 5:00 P.M., OR ANYTIME EARLIER, EACH HOUSE SHALL STAND ADJOURNED TO MEET IN STATEWIDE SESSION AT 12:00 NOON ON TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2017, AND CONTINUE IN STATEWIDE SESSION, IF NECESSARY, UNTIL NOT LATER THAN 5:00 P.M. ON THURSDAY, MAY 25, 2017, FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF CERTAIN SPECIFIED MATTERS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN THE RESPECTIVE HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURN NOT LATER 12:00 NOON TUESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2018, THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL STAND ADJOURNED SINE DIE.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 693 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE MONDAY, MAY 1, THROUGH FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017, AS CHARTER SCHOOL WEEK IN THE PALMETTO STATE AND TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATING THE CHILDREN OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN INNOVATIVE CLASSROOMS AND SCHOOLS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 694 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR THE REVEREND JERRY M. HILL, PASTOR OF MISSIONS AND OUTREACH AT BUNCOMBE STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH IN GREENVILLE, FOR HIS SEVENTEEN YEARS OF GOSPEL MINISTRY AT BUNCOMBE STREET, TO CONGRATULATE HIM ON THE OCCASION OF HIS JUNE 2017 RETIREMENT, AND TO WISH HIM GOD'S RICHEST BLESSINGS AS HE CONTINUES TO SERVE THE LORD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 695 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR SPRINGFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH, AND TO CONGRATULATE THE PASTOR AND CONGREGATION UPON THE OCCASION OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF MINISTRY TO THEIR COMMUNITY AND THEIR GOD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 696 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE MAYOR LARK JONES UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AS MAYOR OF NORTH AUGUSTA, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS THIRTY-TWO YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE TO THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 697 (Word version) -- Senator Sabb: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE ROSE ELLA "SUDIE" DUKES COOPER BRIGHT ON THE OCCASION OF HER ONE HUNDREDTH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HER A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MUCH HAPPINESS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 698 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler and J. Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE LYNN S. BARNES AND BRIAN BARNES FOR THEIR ENDURING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE WELL-BEING OF THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 699 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE GENE BRANHAM UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE TO KERSHAW COUNTY AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

H. 3883 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer and Pope: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, TO ENACT THE "PYRAMID PROMOTIONAL SCHEME PROHIBITION ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE PYRAMID PROMOTIONAL SCHEMES CONSTITUTE UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES ACT, AND TO PROVIDE NECESSARY DEFINITIONS; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 39-5-30 RELATING TO PYRAMID CLUBS AND SIMILAR OPERATIONS.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

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

H. 3055 (Word version) -- Reps. Robinson-Simpson, Clyburn, Gilliard, Mack, King and Henegan: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "STOP THE SCHOOL HOUSE TO JAIL HOUSE PIPELINE ACT" BY CREATING THE RESTORATIVE JUSTICE STUDY COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE JUVENILE JUSTICE LAWS OF THE STATE AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS CONCERNING PROPOSED CHANGES TO FACILITATE AND ENCOURAGE DIVERSION OF JUVENILES FROM THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM TO RESTORATIVE JUSTICE PRACTICES FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES AND IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE THE STUDY COMMITTEE SHALL MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS CONCERNING A RELATED PILOT PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PILOT PROGRAM, AND TO DEFINE A NECESSARY TERM; BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-212 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL DISTRICTS SHALL ADOPT ZERO-TOLERANCE POLICIES THAT NOT BE RIGOROUSLY APPLIED TO PETTY ACTS OF MISCONDUCT AND MISDEMEANORS, MUST APPLY EQUALLY TO ALL STUDENTS REGARDLESS OF THEIR ECONOMIC STATUS, RACE, OR DISABILITY, AND THAT ARE INTENDED TO PROMOTE SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS IN SCHOOLS, PROTECT STUDENTS AND STAFF FROM CONDUCT THAT POSES A SERIOUS THREAT TO SCHOOL SAFETY, ENCOURAGES SCHOOLS TO USE ALTERNATIVES TO EXPULSION OR REFERRAL, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-117 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY SHALL DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A CULTURAL COMPETENCY MODEL TRAINING PROGRAM CURRICULUM FOR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS, TO PROVIDE CONTENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CURRICULUM, AND TO REQUIRE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS TO COMPLETE TRAINING BASED ON THE CURRICULUM; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 59-63-235 AND 59-63-240 BOTH RELATING TO STUDENT EXPULSIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3176 (Word version) -- Reps. Clemmons, Daning, Pitts and Norrell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 15-41-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AN INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNT BEING EXEMPT FROM ATTACHMENT, LEVY, AND SALE, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT THE EXEMPTION APPLIES ONLY TO THE EXTENT THAT IS PERMITTED IN SECTION 522(d) OF THE FEDERAL BANKRUPTCY CODE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3209 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Robinson-Simpson, Crosby, Whipper, Brown, M. Rivers, King, Magnuson, Norrell, Martin, B. Newton, Long, Govan, Henegan, Dillard and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 17-22-910, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR THE EXPUNGEMENT OF CRIMINAL RECORDS FOR CERTAIN OFFENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ELIGIBILITY FOR EXPUNGEMENT OF OFFENSES SUBSEQUENTLY REPEALED WHEN THE ELEMENTS OF THE OFFENSE ARE CONSISTENT WITH AN EXISTING SIMILAR OFFENSE WHICH IS SUBJECT TO EXPUNGEMENT, AND CLARIFY THAT EXPUNGEMENT PROVISIONS APPLY RETROACTIVELY TO THE OFFENSES DELINEATED.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3231 (Word version) -- Reps. Tallon, Cole and Mitchell: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT CONSISTENT WITH CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF SECTION 34, ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1865, CREATING A CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG FOR ITS POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS UNDER SUCH TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL PROVIDE, THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG BY ORDINANCE SHALL ESTABLISH THE TERMS, CONDITIONS, MEMBERSHIP, AND PROCEDURES OF THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG'S CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS, AND TO REPEAL ACT 612 OF 1936 RELATING TO CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSIONS FOR MUNICIPALITIES OF A CERTAIN POPULATION THE SIZE OF THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG, AND ACT 345 OF 1965, ACT 991 OF 1966, AND ACT 618 OF 1992 RELATING TO A CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG FOR THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3234 (Word version) -- Reps. McEachern and Sandifer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-120, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT, SO AS TO DELETE OCCUPANCY UNDER A RENTAL AGREEMENT COVERING THE PREMISES USED BY THE OCCUPANT PRIMARILY FOR AGRICULTURAL PURPOSES AS AN EXEMPTION UNDER THE ACT.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3352 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Taylor, Norrell and Erickson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 1-23-665 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFICE OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REVIEW WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE OFFICE; TO AMEND SECTION 1-23-500, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE COURT, INCLUDING THE OFFICE OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, IS CONSIDERED PART OF THE UNIFIED JUDICIAL SYSTEM FOR THE PURPOSES OF CERTAIN ETHICS, GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CAMPAIGN REFORM STATUTES; TO AMEND SECTION 30-4-30, RELATING TO RIGHTS TO INSPECT PUBLIC RECORDS UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO INCLUDE ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONS AMONG THE RECORD FORMATS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION, TO PROVIDE CERTAIN LIMITATIONS APPLICABLE TO PRISONERS, TO PROVIDE PUBLIC BODIES ARE NOT REQUIRED TO CREATE ELECTRONIC VERSIONS OF PUBLIC RECORDS TO FULFILL RECORDS REQUESTS, TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING FEES TO FULFILL RECORDS REQUESTS, AND TO REVISE THE MANNER FOR RESPONDING TO RECORDS REQUESTS; TO AMEND SECTION 30-4-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MATTERS EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE IN THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO INCLUDE CERTAIN LAW ENFORCEMENT RECORDINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 30-4-50, RELATING TO CATEGORIES OF MATTERS DECLARED TO BE PUBLIC INFORMATION IN THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO INCLUDE LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLE MOUNTED VIDEO AND AUDIO RECORDINGS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT MAY APPLY FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF FROM THE CIRCUIT COURT IF THERE IS CLEAR AND CONVINCING EVIDENCE OF SPECIFIC HARM FROM THE RELEASE OF THE RECORDING; TO AMEND SECTION 30-4-100, RELATING TO EQUITABLE REMEDIES AVAILABLE UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE AVAILABLE REMEDIES; TO AMEND SECTION 30-4-110, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO REMOVE CRIMINAL PENALTIES, TO VEST EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OVER CASES ARISING FROM REQUESTS FOR RECORDS AND EXEMPTIONS FROM DISCLOSURE, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS TO THIS JURISDICTION, TO PROVIDE RELATED PROCEDURES FOR PERSONS ALLEGING VIOLATIONS, TO PROVIDE REVISED REMEDIES AND RELIEF AVAILABLE FOR VIOLATIONS, AND TO PROVIDE A PROCESS FOR APPEALS; TO AMEND SECTION 30-2-50, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION ON OBTAINING PERSONAL INFORMATION FROM A STATE AGENCY FOR COMMERCIAL SOLICITATION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE PROHIBITION TO INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS OF THE STATE; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THESE MEASURES TAKE EFFECT OCTOBER 1, 2017.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3429 (Word version) -- Reps. Clemmons and Norrell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 15-41-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROPERTY EXEMPT FROM BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS OR ATTACHMENT, LEVY, AND SALE, SO AS TO REVISE EXEMPTIONS IN BANKRUPTCY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3442 (Word version) -- Reps. Delleney, Felder, Pope, Martin, Norrell, B. Newton, Simrill, Norman, Thayer, Putnam, Clary, Hamilton, Yow, W. Newton, Kirby, Erickson, Knight, Hixon, Elliott, Henderson, Bedingfield, V.S. Moss, Wheeler, Ballentine, King, Henegan and West: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 63-9-60, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO INDIVIDUALS WHO MAY ADOPT A CHILD, SO AS TO ADD CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH A NONRESIDENT MAY ADOPT AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE RIGHT TO FILE A PETITION FOR ADOPTION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 63-9-750, RELATING TO ADOPTION HEARINGS, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3601 (Word version) -- Reps. Clemmons, Pitts, Hiott, Hardee, Duckworth, Crawford, Yow, Delleney, Lowe, White, Hewitt and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-665, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF BEAR HUNTING TAGS BY THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NONRESIDENT FEE TO OBTAIN A BEAR TAG, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES FOR THE RANDOM DRAWING OF TAGS BY BEAR TAG APPLICANTS IN GAME ZONES OTHER THAN GAME ZONE 1, AND TO ELIMINATE THE APPLICATION FEE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-430, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE HUNTING OF BEARS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN OPEN SEASON FOR HUNTING AND TAKING BEAR FOR STILL GUN HUNTS IN GAME ZONE 4, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ALLOWS THE DEPARTMENT TO ISSUE PERMITS TO ALLOW THE HUNTING AND TAKING OF BEAR, TO ESTABLISH A SEASON FOR THE HUNTING AND TAKING OF BEAR ON PRIVATE LANDS AND ALL LANDS UNDER THE DEPARTMENT'S CONTROL IN GAME ZONES 2, 3, AND 4, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROHIBITS THE HUNTING AND TAKING OF BEAR BY THE USE OR AID OF BAIT.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3665 (Word version) -- Reps. Hixon, Kirby, Hewitt, Atkinson, Sottile, Cogswell, Yow, Wheeler and Forrest: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1710, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SIZE LIMITS FOR CERTAIN FISH THAT MAY BE LAWFULLY TAKEN, POSSESSED, LANDED, SOLD, OR PURCHASED, SO AS TO INCREASE THE SIZE LIMIT FOR FLOUNDER THAT MAY BE LAWFULLY TAKEN, POSSESSED, LANDED, SOLD, OR PURCHASED.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3698 (Word version) -- Reps. V.S. Moss, Duckworth, Forrest, Hiott and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-1-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO GEOGRAPHICAL BOUNDARIES FOR CERTAIN BODIES OF WATER, SO AS TO PROVIDE GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES FOR THE PORTION OF THE INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY LOCATED IN HORRY COUNTY AND TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1556, RELATING TO LOCATIONS WHERE STRIPED BASS MAY BE TAKEN, SO AS TO REVISE THE PERIODS OF TIME WHEN STRIPED BASS MAY BE TAKEN IN VARIOUS BODIES OF WATER; AND TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-230, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TAKING OF STRIPED BASS WITHIN VARIOUS BODIES OF WATER, SO AS TO REVISE THE PERIOD OF TIME WHEN STRIPED BASS MAY BE TAKEN WITHIN VARIOUS BODIES OF WATER, TO PROVIDE FOR LIMITS FOR THE TAKING OF STRIPED BASS WITHIN VARIOUS BODIES OF WATER, TO PROVIDE FOR THE TAKING OF STRIPED BASS IN THE SANTEE RIVER, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT REQUIRES THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES TO CONDUCT A STUDY OF THE STRIPED BASS FISHERY ON THE SANTEE AND COOPER RIVER SYSTEMS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3789 (Word version) -- Reps. Govan, Yow, Henegan, J.E. Smith, Thigpen, Hart, Clemmons, Whipper and Brown: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA YOUTH CHALLENGE ACADEMY AND SOUTH CAROLINA JOBS CHALLENGE PROGRAM EXPUNGEMENT ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 10 TO CHAPTER 22, TITLE 17 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR EXPUNGEMENT OF A CRIMINAL RECORD PURSUANT TO SECTION 17-22-910 WHO SUCCESSFULLY GRADUATE AND COMPLETE THE SOUTH CAROLINA YOUTH CHALLENGE ACADEMY AND SOUTH CAROLINA JOBS CHALLENGE PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD MAY APPLY TO HAVE THEIR RECORD EXPUNGED UPON SUCCESSFUL GRADUATION AND COMPLETION OF THE PROGRAMS UNDER CERTAIN DELINEATED CIRCUMSTANCES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 17-22-940, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE EXPUNGEMENT PROCESS, SO AS TO INCLUDE A REFERENCE TO THE DIRECTOR OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA YOUTH CHALLENGE ACADEMY ATTESTING TO THE ELIGIBILITY OF THE CHARGE FOR EXPUNGEMENT ON AN EXPUNGEMENT APPLICATION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator SHEALY from the General Committee submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3823 (Word version) -- Reps. Henderson, Bedingfield, Fry, Huggins, Johnson, Hewitt, Crawford, Duckworth, Allison, Forrester, Arrington, Tallon, Hamilton, Felder, Elliott, G.R. Smith, Jordan, B. Newton, Martin, Erickson, V.S. Moss, Long, Bradley, Weeks, Taylor, Putnam and Cogswell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 63-7-310, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MANDATED REPORTING OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT, SO AS TO REQUIRE REPORTING WHEN AN INFANT OR FETUS IS EXPOSED TO ALCOHOL OR CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2017

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:

S. 107 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Hutto, Massey, Hembree and Fanning: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 1-3-125, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING WITH THE 2018 GENERAL ELECTION, IF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR RESIGNS OR IS REMOVED FROM OFFICE, THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT, WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE, A SUCCESSOR FOR THE UNEXPIRED TERM; BY ADDING SECTION 7-11-12, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE PROCEDURE BY WHICH A PERSON NOMINATED AS GOVERNOR SELECTS A LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR AS A JOINT TICKET RUNNING MATE; BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-315, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO ENSURE THAT THE GOVERNOR AND LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR ARE ELECTED JOINTLY; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1301, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT JOINTLY ELECTED CANDIDATES MUST BE CONSIDERED A SINGLE CANDIDATE FOR CONTRIBUTIONS AND ESTABLISHING A COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1314, RELATING TO CONTRIBUTION LIMITATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WITHIN AN ELECTION CYCLE, CONTRIBUTIONS FOR STATEWIDE CANDIDATES ARE INCREASED FROM THREE TO FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS, CONTRIBUTIONS FOR JOINTLY ELECTED CANDIDATES ARE FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS, AND CONTRIBUTIONS FOR CANDIDATES FOR OTHER OFFICES ARE INCREASED FROM ONE TO TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS AND THAT FUTURE LIMITATIONS ON CONTRIBUTIONS MUST BE INCREASED BY THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION DEPENDENT UPON THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX; TO AMEND SECTION 7-11-15(A), RELATING TO FILING AS A CANDIDATE FOR THE GENERAL ELECTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE IF MARCH 30, THE DEADLINE FOR FILING, IS ON A SATURDAY OR SUNDAY, THE TIME FOR FILING EXTENDS TO THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY THAT IS NOT A SATURDAY, SUNDAY, OR LEGAL HOLIDAY; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-45, RELATING TO ESTABLISHING HOURS FOR ACCEPTING CANDIDATE FILINGS, SO AS TO DELETE SPECIFIC REFERENCES TO THE NUMBER OF HOURS AND PROVIDE THAT FILINGS BE ACCEPTED DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS ON REGULAR BUSINESS DAYS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 1-3-120, 1-3-130, 1-6-30(9), 1-9-30, 1-11-10(D), 1-11-425, 1-18-70, 1-23-280(B) AND (E), 1-23-290(D), 2-1-230(C), 2-1-250(B), 2-2-30(B)(1), 2-2-40(B), 2-3-20, 2-3-75(B)(3), 2-3-105(A)(4), 2-15-60(b), 2-17-90(A)(1), 2-17-90(A)(6)(c), 2-17-100(3), 2-19-10(B)(2), 2-41-70, 2-67-20(E)(1)(a), 2-69-20, 2-69-40, 2-75-10, 3-11-400(C)(3)(b)(iii), 5-1-26(B)(4), 5-1-26(F), 6-4-35(A)(2), 6-29-1330(D)(3), 6-29-1330(G), 8-13-540(3)(d), 8-13-715, 8-13-1373, 9-4-10(B)(1)(b), 9-4-40, 9-16-90, 9-16-380, 10-1-168(I), 11-9-890B.(2), 11-11-350, 11-43-140, 11-45-40(B)(1), 11-50-50, 11-57-340, 12-3-10(A)(1), 13-1-25(B), 23-1-230(G), 24-22-150, 37-29-110, 38-3-110(5)(c), 38-75-490(D), 40-47-10(A)(4), 44-128-50(B)(2), 46-3-260(A), 48-52-440(D)(2), 48-59-40(A)(4), 51-13-720, 51-13-2120(3), 51-18-115, 54-6-10(B)(3), 59-6-10, 59-40-230(A), 59-46-40(A)(4), 59-150-40(A), 59-150-40(C), 59-150-40(D), 59-150-320, 59-150-325(A), 60-11-150(B), 60-17-10, 63-1-50(A), 63-1-50(B), 63-11-1720(B), 63-11-1720(C), 63-11-1930(A)(11), AND 63-11-2110(B)(4), RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE PRO TEMPORE, SO AS TO REVISE STATUTORY REFERENCES FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE PRO TEMPORE TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AND TO MAKE ADDITIONAL CLARIFYING CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTIONS 1-3-620, 1-11-720(A)(9), 1-23-125(B), 1-23-125(D), 2-3-30, 2-3-90, 7-11-30(A), 7-17-10, 9-1-10(11)(g), 9-1-10(14), 10-1-40, 14-27-20(10), 14-27-30, 14-27-40(2), 14-27-80, 43-21-20, 43-21-45, 43-21-60, 43-21-70, 43-21-100, 43-21-130(A)(1), 43-21-190(2), 44-36-310, 44-36-320(7), 44-36-330, 44-56-840(A), 54-7-100, AND 59-6-15(A)(3), RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR, SO AS TO REVISE STATUTORY REFERENCES TO CONFORM TO CONSTITUTIONAL AND STATUTORY CHANGES CONCERNING SELECTION AS PART OF A JOINT TICKET AND TO MAKE THE GOVERNOR RESPONSIBLE FOR THE EXISTING DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR SO THE GOVERNOR MAY DETERMINE HOW THOSE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES MAY BE ACCOMPLISHED; TO AMEND SECTION 1-1-1210, RELATING TO SALARIES OF CERTAIN STATE CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION TO STUDY AND RECOMMEND SALARY RANGES AND DETERMINE SALARIES FOR THESE OFFICERS, AND TO REQUIRE RECUSAL OF COMMISSION MEMBERS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AND TO REQUIRE, ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2019, THE CODE COMMISSIONER TO PREPARE AND DELIVER A REPORT TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RECOMMENDING ANY ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATE AND CONFORMING CHANGES TO THE 1976 CODE OF LAWS REFLECTING THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2017

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:

S. 359 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 39-5-325, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES FOR MOTOR FUEL RETAILERS, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2017

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it refuses to concur in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:

H. 3516 (Word version) -- Reps. Simrill, Lucas, White, G.M. Smith, Pope, Stringer, W. Newton, Bales, Clary, Cole, Delleney, Herbkersman, Hixon, Sandifer, Douglas, Knight, Erickson, Henegan, Ridgeway, Williams, Jefferson, Ott, Govan, Henderson, V.S. Moss, Martin, Spires, Funderburk, D.C. Moss, Brown, Whipper, Cobb-Hunter, Felder, Bernstein, J.E. Smith, Clemmons, Clyburn, Daning, Cogswell, Davis, B. Newton, Anthony, Crosby, S. Rivers, Thigpen, Hosey, Murphy, Hardee, Weeks, King, Sottile and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-310, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE MOTOR FUEL USER FEE, SO AS TO PHASE IN AN INCREASE OF TEN CENTS ON THE FEE OVER FIVE YEARS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 56-11-410 AND 56-11-450, BOTH RELATING TO THE ROAD TAX, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ROAD TAX IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE MOTOR FUEL USER FEE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-620, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE BIENNIAL REGISTRATION OF A MOTOR VEHICLE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE FEE FOR THE REGISTRATION; BY ADDING SECTION 56-3-627 SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH RESIDENT TO PAY AN INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE FEE UPON FIRST REGISTERING ANY VEHICLE AND CERTAIN OTHER ITEMS IN THIS STATE AND TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH THE FEE IS CALCULATED, CREDITED, AND ADMINISTERED; BY ADDING SECTION 56-3-645 SO AS TO IMPOSE A ROAD USE FEE ON CERTAIN MOTOR VEHICLES THAT OPERATE ON FUEL THAT IS NOT SUBJECT TO THE MOTOR FUEL USER FEE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2110, RELATING TO THE MAXIMUM SALES TAX, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM TAX ON CERTAIN ITEMS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE STATE SALES TAX, SO AS TO EXEMPT ANY ITEM SUBJECT TO THE INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE FEE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-1710, RELATING TO THE CASUAL EXCISE TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MOTOR VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES ARE NOT SUBJECT TO THE TAX; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 23, CHAPTER 37, TITLE 12, RELATING TO MOTOR CARRIERS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE ARTICLE DOES NOT APPLY TO A SMALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE, TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN VEHICLES ARE ASSESSED AND APPORTIONED BASED ON A ROAD USE FEE INSTEAD OF PROPERTY TAXES, TO PROVIDE THAT THE ROAD USE FEE IS DUE AT THE SAME TIME AS REGISTRATION FEES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE ROAD USE FEE, AND TO EXEMPT CERTAIN SEMITRAILERS, TRAILERS, LARGE COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLES, AND BUSES FROM AD VALOREM TAXATION.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

H. 3516--SENATE INSISTS ON THEIR AMENDMENTS

On motion of Senator SHEHEEN, the Senate insisted upon its amendments to H. 3516 and asked for a Committee of Conference.

Whereupon, Senators CAMPBELL, SHEHEEN and TURNER were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2017

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Reps. Simrill, Rutherford and White to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House on:

H. 3516 (Word version) -- Reps. Simrill, Lucas, White, G.M. Smith, Pope, Stringer, W. Newton, Bales, Clary, Cole, Delleney, Herbkersman, Hixon, Sandifer, Douglas, Knight, Erickson, Henegan, Ridgeway, Williams, Jefferson, Ott, Govan, Henderson, V.S. Moss, Martin, Spires, Funderburk, D.C. Moss, Brown, Whipper, Cobb-Hunter, Felder, Bernstein, J.E. Smith, Clemmons, Clyburn, Daning, Cogswell, Davis, B. Newton, Anthony, Crosby, S. Rivers, Thigpen, Hosey, Murphy, Hardee, Weeks, King, Sottile and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-310, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE MOTOR FUEL USER FEE, SO AS TO PHASE IN AN INCREASE OF TEN CENTS ON THE FEE OVER FIVE YEARS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 56-11-410 AND 56-11-450, BOTH RELATING TO THE ROAD TAX, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ROAD TAX IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE MOTOR FUEL USER FEE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-620, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE BIENNIAL REGISTRATION OF A MOTOR VEHICLE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE FEE FOR THE REGISTRATION; BY ADDING SECTION 56-3-627 SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH RESIDENT TO PAY AN INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE FEE UPON FIRST REGISTERING ANY VEHICLE AND CERTAIN OTHER ITEMS IN THIS STATE AND TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH THE FEE IS CALCULATED, CREDITED, AND ADMINISTERED; BY ADDING SECTION 56-3-645 SO AS TO IMPOSE A ROAD USE FEE ON CERTAIN MOTOR VEHICLES THAT OPERATE ON FUEL THAT IS NOT SUBJECT TO THE MOTOR FUEL USER FEE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2110, RELATING TO THE MAXIMUM SALES TAX, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM TAX ON CERTAIN ITEMS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE STATE SALES TAX, SO AS TO EXEMPT ANY ITEM SUBJECT TO THE INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE FEE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-1710, RELATING TO THE CASUAL EXCISE TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MOTOR VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES ARE NOT SUBJECT TO THE TAX; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 23, CHAPTER 37, TITLE 12, RELATING TO MOTOR CARRIERS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE ARTICLE DOES NOT APPLY TO A SMALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLE, TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN VEHICLES ARE ASSESSED AND APPORTIONED BASED ON A ROAD USE FEE INSTEAD OF PROPERTY TAXES, TO PROVIDE THAT THE ROAD USE FEE IS DUE AT THE SAME TIME AS REGISTRATION FEES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE ROAD USE FEE, AND TO EXEMPT CERTAIN SEMITRAILERS, TRAILERS, LARGE COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLES, AND BUSES FROM AD VALOREM TAXATION.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2017

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon the amendments proposed by the House to:

H. 3720 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2017, TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
asks for a Committee of Conference, and has appointed Reps. White, Pitts and Stavrinakis to the committee on the part of the House.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED

Whereupon, Senators LEATHERMAN, SETZLER and BENNETT were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 3, 2017

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon the amendments proposed by the House to:

H. 3721 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016-2017, AND TO ALLOW UNEXPENDED FUNDS APPROPRIATED TO BE CARRIED FORWARD TO SUCCEEDING FISCAL YEARS AND EXPENDED FOR THE SAME PURPOSES.
asks for a Committee of Conference, and has appointed Reps. White, Pitts and Stavrinakis to the committee on the part of the House.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED

Whereupon, Senators LEATHERMAN, SETZLER and BENNETT were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

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

ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 3441 (Word version) -- Rep. Gagnon: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 42-9-450 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PAYMENTS OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION BY EMPLOYERS' REPRESENTATIVES MUST BE MADE BY CHECK OR DIRECT DEPOSIT.

HOUSE BILLS RETURNED

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

H. 3879 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, Yow, Thayer, Anderson and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 42-9-290, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF BURIAL EXPENSES PAYABLE UNDER WORKERS' COMPENSATION LAWS FOR ACCIDENTAL DEATH, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM PAYABLE AMOUNT TO SEVENTY-FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS.

H. 3531 (Word version) -- Reps. Crawford, Clemmons, Fry, Duckworth, Hixon, Hardee, V.S. Moss, Forrest and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 2 TO TITLE 47 SO AS TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS, TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN PERSONS FROM OWNING, POSSESSING, IMPORTING, PURCHASING, OR SELLING A LARGE WILD CAT, NON-NATIVE BEAR, OR GREAT APE, TO AUTHORIZE CONFISCATION OF THESE ANIMALS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL BODIES MAY ADOPT ORDINANCES THAT REGULATE THE POSSESSION OF THESE ANIMALS, TO REGULATE THE TREATMENT OF THESE ANIMALS, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 47-5-50, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION OF THE SALE OF WILD CARNIVORES AS PETS AND THE SALE OF DOMESTICATED FERRETS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ALLOWS THE PUBLIC DISPLAY, SHOWING, OR EXHIBITION OF CERTAIN WILD CARNIVORES, PRIMATES, OR OTHER ANIMALS.

H. 3559 (Word version) -- Reps. Pitts, Ott, Putnam, Gagnon, Atkinson, Dillard, Martin, West, Hill, Bedingfield, Gilliard, Kirby, Davis, King, Whipper and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 55, TITLE 46, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CULTIVATION OF INDUSTRIAL HEMP, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITIONS OF TERMS CONTAINED IN THIS CHAPTER, TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR THE TERM "HUMAN CONSUMPTION", TO CREATE THE SOUTH CAROLINA INDUSTRIAL HEMP PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE THAT INDUSTRIAL HEMP IS AN AGRICULTURAL CROP UPON WHICH AN INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION MAY CONDUCT RESEARCH, TO PROVIDE THAT INDUSTRIAL HEMP OR HEMP PRODUCTS MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED AN ADULTERANT, TO PROVIDE PROVISIONS THAT REGULATE THE GROWING, SELLING, AND IMPORTATION OF INDUSTRIAL HEMP AND HEMP SEED, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT EXCLUDES INDUSTRIAL HEMP FROM THE DEFINITION OF MARIJUANA, TO REVISE THE PROVISION THAT SPECIFIES THAT CERTAIN CONDUCT REGARDING THE MANUFACTURING, DISTRIBUTION, PURCHASE, AND OTHER ACTIVITIES RELATING TO DISGUISING MARIJUANA TO MAKE IT APPEAR TO BE INDUSTRIAL HEMP, AND TO PROVIDE FOR LABORATORY TESTING OF INDUSTRIAL HEMP.

H. 3150 (Word version) -- Rep. Funderburk: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-190, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPECIAL ELECTIONS TO FILL VACANCIES IN OFFICES, SO AS TO REMOVE A MUNICIPALITY'S AUTHORITY NOT TO CONDUCT GENERAL ELECTIONS UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

Senator MALLOY spoke on the Bill.

Senator CAMPSEN explained the Bill.

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered sent to the House of Representatives:

S. 648 (Word version) -- Senators Scott, Setzler, McLeod, Jackson and McElveen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-53-1784, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS PROPERTY BY THE MIDLANDS TECHNICAL COLLEGE ENTERPRISE CAMPUS AUTHORITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE EXEMPTION OF THE AUTHORITY FROM SURPLUS PROPERTY LAWS APPLIES TO REAL, PERSONAL, AND MIXED PROPERTY IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

S. 445 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-40, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHARTER SCHOOLS ACT OF 1996, SO AS TO REVISE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-50, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF CHARTER SCHOOL BOARDS, SO AS TO REVISE AND ADD REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING NONCERTIFIED TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS, GOVERNANCE, NEPOTISM, AND USE OF PROGRAM FUNDING FOR TRANSPORTATION; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-55, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL SPONSORS, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING CHARTER SCHOOL CONTRACTS, REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, NOTIFICATION OF IDENTIFIED PROBLEMS, ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES, LIMITS ON STATE APPROPRIATIONS SCHOOLS MAY RECEIVE, AND RESERVE FUNDS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-60, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL FORMATION PROCEDURES, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING CHARTER AMENDMENT PROCEDURES, PUBLIC MEETINGS, AND TRANSFER OF GOVERNANCE AND OPERATIONS OF NEW CHARTER SCHOOLS FROM CHARTER COMMITTEES TO CHARTER SCHOOL LEADERS AND BOARDS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL APPLICATION PROCEDURES, SO AS TO REVISE PROCEDURES CONCERNING SUBMISSION OF LETTERS OF INTENT, POWERS OF SCHOOL BOARDS TO REQUEST INFORMATION FROM CHARTER APPLICANTS, APPLICATION MATERIALS REQUIRED FOR SUBMISSION, AND SPONSOR REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS AND RESPONSES TO APPLICATIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-80, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CONDITIONAL AUTHORIZATIONS OF CHARTER SCHOOLS, SO AS TO ALLOW CERTAIN AMENDMENTS TO CHARTER SCHOOL APPLICATIONS OR FORM AGREEMENTS CONCERNING PREOPENING BENCHMARKS REGARDING ENROLLMENT, TO PROVIDE SPONSOR DECISIONS TO GRANT OR DENY CONDITIONAL APPROVAL ARE NOT SUBJECT TO APPEAL, AND TO PROVIDE OPTIONAL OUTCOMES FOR CONDITIONALLY APPROVED CHARTER SCHOOLS THAT FAIL TO MEET CONDITIONS FOR CHARTER APPROVAL; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DURATIONS, RENEWALS, REVOCATIONS, AND TERMINATIONS OF CHARTERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CHARTER SCHOOLS MUST BE CONSIDERED ACCREDITED PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPON CHARTER APPROVAL AND SUBMISSION OF REQUIRED ANNUAL REPORTS, AND TO SPECIFY THE EVENT THAT BEGINS THE TEN-YEAR TERMS OF CHARTERS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-115, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF CONTRACTS WITH SPONSORS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH CHARTERS MAY SEEK AND OBTAIN ALTERNATE SPONSORS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-140, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL FUNDING, SO AS TO REQUIRE REPORTS OF CERTAIN FEDERAL FUNDS RETAINED BY SPONSORS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-150, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO DISSEMINATE INFORMATION ABOUT CHARTER SCHOOLS' FORMATION AND OPERATION AND TO PROVIDE A DIRECTORY OF AUTHORIZED CHARTER SCHOOLS, SO AS TO REVISE THE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS OF THESE DUTIES; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-170, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DUTY OF THE DEPARTMENT TO MAINTAIN AND PROVIDE A LIST OF SCHOOL BUILDINGS SUITABLE AND AVAILABLE FOR CHARTER SCHOOL USE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE LIST BE MADE AVAILABLE ONLINE AND BE UPDATED AT LEAST ANNUALLY; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-175, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITY REVOLVING LOAN PROGRAM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE TREASURER MAY USE PROGRAM FUNDS TO CREATE A DEBT RESERVE FUND TO ENHANCE THE ABILITY OF CHARTER SCHOOLS TO OBTAIN FAVORABLE FINANCING TERMS ON CERTAIN BONDS TO FINANCE CHARTER SCHOOL CAPITAL PROJECTS AND CREDIT ENHANCEMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-180, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT TO PROMULGATE CERTAIN REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING GUIDELINES FOR APPLICATIONS PROCEDURES; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-230, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING VACANCIES ON THE BOARD; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 59-40-200 RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF ESTABLISHMENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL DISTRICTS ON PENDING AND FUTURE APPLICATIONS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator HEMBREE explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator MALLOY, the Bill was moved to the Statewide Second Reading Calendar.

REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

S. 577 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES, BY ADDING ARTICLE 7, TO ENACT THE "PYRAMID PROMOTIONAL SCHEME PROHIBITION ACT", TO PROVIDE THAT PYRAMID PROMOTIONAL SCHEMES CONSTITUTE UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES ACT AND TO PROVIDE NECESSARY DEFINITIONS; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 39-5-30, RELATING TO PYRAMID CLUBS AND SIMILAR OPERATIONS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator MASSEY explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator MALLOY, the Bill was moved to the Statewide Second Reading Calendar.

REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

H. 3041 (Word version) -- Reps. Huggins, Elliott, Long and Hamilton: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-57-115, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS REQUIRED FOR INITIAL LICENSURES BY THE REAL ESTATE COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THESE BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR LICENSURE RENEWALS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-57-340, RELATING TO LICENSURE RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS FOR REAL ESTATE SALESPERSONS, BROKERS, AND BROKERS-IN-CHARGE, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator DAVIS explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator ALLEN, the Bill was moved to the Statewide Second Reading Calendar.

REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

H. 3220 (Word version) -- Reps. Allison, West, Collins, Felder, B. Newton, Govan, Brown, Whipper, Davis, Anderson, Loftis and Burns: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-59-175 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COORDINATING COUNCIL AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP, DUTIES, AND FUNCTIONS.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Bill was moved to the Statewide Second Reading Calendar.

REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

H. 3898 (Word version) -- Reps. Knight, Henegan, Spires, King, Douglas, Robinson-Simpson, Felder, Hosey, Clyburn, Mack, Kirby, Alexander, Bennett, Whipper, Collins, Arrington, Loftis, Pitts, Elliott and M. Rivers: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 63-9-780, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ACCESS TO AND DISCLOSURE OF NONIDENTIFYING AND IDENTIFYING INFORMATION ABOUT ADOPTEES, BIOLOGICAL PARENTS, AND BIOLOGICAL SIBLINGS, SO AS TO APPLY ALSO TO BIOLOGICAL GRANDPARENTS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator YOUNG explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator MALLOY, the Bill was moved to the Statewide Second Reading Calendar.

READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 3538 (Word version) -- Rep. J.E. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, TO ENACT THE "PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES RIGHT TO PARENT ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 21 TO TITLE 63 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND THE FAMILY AND PROBATE COURTS, AMONG OTHERS, TO PROTECT THE PARENTING RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY BY ESTABLISHING CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS AND SAFEGUARDS APPLICABLE IN CHILD CUSTODY, CHILD PROTECTION, AND PROBATE GUARDIANSHIP PROCEEDINGS TO ENSURE THAT PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES ARE NOT DENIED THE RIGHT TO PARENT OR TO HAVE CUSTODY OF OR VISITATION WITH A CHILD BECAUSE OF THE DISABILITY; AND TO PROHIBIT CHILD PLACING AGENCIES AND ADOPTION SERVICE PROVIDERS FROM DENYING PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY THE RIGHT TO ACCESS SERVICES BECAUSE OF THE PERSON'S DISABILITY, WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 63-7-720, RELATING TO REASONABLE EFFORTS REQUIREMENTS FOR PROBABLE CAUSE HEARINGS, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN EFFORTS IF A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN HAS A DISABILITY TO INCLUDE REFERRALS FOR SERVICES PROVIDING INSTRUCTION ON ADAPTIVE PARENTING TECHNIQUES AND OTHER REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS WITH REGARD TO ACCESSING SERVICES; TO AMEND SECTION 63-7-1640, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO FAMILY COURT DETERMINATIONS WHETHER TO REQUIRE REASONABLE EFFORTS TO PRESERVE OR REUNIFY A FAMILY WHEN THE PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN HAS A DISABILITY, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE COURT TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE DISABILITY AND WAYS IN WHICH TO ACCOMMODATE THE DISABILITY TO PRESERVE OR REUNIFY THE FAMILY; TO AMEND SECTION 63-7-2570, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS SOLELY ON THE BASIS OF A DISABILITY.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 41; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Allen                     Bennett
Campbell                  Campsen                   Climer
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Fanning                   Gambrell                  Goldfinch
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Jackson                   Johnson                   Kimpson
Leatherman                Malloy                    Martin
Massey                    Matthews, John            Matthews, Margie
McElveen                  McLeod                    Nicholson
Peeler                    Rankin                    Reese
Rice                      Sabb                      Senn
Setzler                   Shealy                    Sheheen
Talley                    Timmons                   Turner
Williams                  Young

Total--41

NAYS

Total--0

The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 3861 (Word version) -- Reps. Hixon, Hamilton, Crawford, Sandifer and Hewitt: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-57-120, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE REAL ESTATE COMMISSION TO RECOGNIZE NONRESIDENT REAL ESTATE LICENSES ON ACTIVE STATUS FROM OTHER JURISDICTIONS WHICH RECIPROCATE, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT SUCH NONRESIDENT APPLICANTS SEEKING LICENSURE IN THIS STATE FIRST MUST COMPLETE SUCCESSFULLY THE STATE PORTIONS OF THE APPLICABLE EXAMINATIONS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry proposed the following amendment (3861R001.DR.TCA), which was adopted:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Section 40-57-120(A) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 170 of 2016, is amended to read:

"Section 40-57-120.   (A)   The commission may recognize nonresident real estate licenses on active status from other jurisdictions only if the other jurisdiction recognizes South Carolina real estate licenses on active status. An applicant from another jurisdiction successfully shall complete the state portion of the applicable examination before license recognition will be acknowledged. The commission may enter into reciprocal agreements with real estate regulatory authorities of other jurisdictions that provide for waivers of education requirements or examinations if the commission considers the education and examination requirements of another jurisdiction to be substantially equivalent to the requirements of this chapter."

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

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator DAVIS explained the committee amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 41; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Allen                     Bennett
Campbell                  Campsen                   Climer
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Fanning                   Gambrell                  Goldfinch
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Jackson                   Johnson                   Kimpson
Leatherman                Malloy                    Martin
Massey                    Matthews, John            Matthews, Margie
McElveen                  McLeod                    Nicholson
Peeler                    Rankin                    Reese
Rice                      Sabb                      Senn
Setzler                   Shealy                    Sheheen
Talley                    Timmons                   Turner
Williams                  Young

Total--41

NAYS

Total--0

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

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 109 (Word version) -- Senator McElveen: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 7, CHAPTER 11, TITLE 16 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO TRESPASSES AND THE UNLAWFUL USE OF THE PROPERTY OF OTHERS, BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-605, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO OPERATE AN UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE WITHIN A CERTAIN DISTANCE OF A STATE OR FEDERAL MILITARY INSTALLATION AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR THE VIOLATION.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

Senator McELVEEN proposed the following amendment (JUD0109.010), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 1, by striking lines 27-31 and inserting:

/       "Section 16-11-605.   (A)   A person shall not operate an unmanned aerial vehicle within a horizontal distance of five hundred feet or a vertical distance of four hundred feet from a state or federal military installation with restricted public access without written consent from the commander of the specific military installation or his designee. If   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator McELVEEN explained the amendment.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 38; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Allen                     Bennett
Campbell                  Climer                    Corbin
Cromer                    Davis                     Gambrell
Goldfinch                 Gregory                   Grooms
Hembree                   Hutto                     Johnson
Kimpson                   Leatherman                Malloy
Martin                    Massey                    Matthews, Margie
McElveen                  McLeod                    Nicholson
Peeler                    Rankin                    Reese
Rice                      Sabb                      Senn
Setzler                   Shealy                    Sheheen
Talley                    Timmons                   Turner
Williams                  Young

Total--38

NAYS

Total--0

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

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 169 (Word version) -- Senators Shealy and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 25, TITLE 16 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, BY ADDING ARTICLE 8, TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF TEEN DATING VIOLENCE, TO PROVIDE A PENALTY, TO ALLOW VICTIMS TO SEEK ORDERS OF PROTECTION OR RESTRAINING ORDERS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROHIBIT A PERSON WHO VIOLATES THE PROVISIONS OF THE ARTICLE FROM PARTICIPATING IN A PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAM, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-755 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO SEXUAL BATTERY WITH A STUDENT, TO REVISE THE STRUCTURE OF THE OFFENSE TO PROVIDE THE SAME PENALTY FOR PERSONS WHO COMMIT THE OFFENSE WHEN THE VICTIM IS SIXTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AND TO PROVIDE A MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCE OF ONE YEAR FOR A CONVICTION, NO PART OF WHICH MAY BE SUSPENDED NOR PROBATION GRANTED.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD0169.006), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   1.   Section 16-3-1750 is amended as follows:

"Section 16-3-1750.   (A)   Pursuant to this article, the magistrates court has jurisdiction over an action seeking a restraining order against a person engaged in harassment in the first or second degree or stalking.

(B)   An action for a restraining order must be filed in the county in which:

(1)   the defendant resides when the action commences;

(2)   the harassment in the first or second degree or stalking occurred; or

(3)   the plaintiff resides if the defendant is a nonresident of the State or cannot be found.

(C)   A complaint and motion for a restraining order may be filed by any person, except that if the person is an unemancipated minor under the age of eighteen, the parent, legal guardian, or person who has legal custody of the minor shall file the complaint and motion, unless the court finds to require the minor's parent, legal guardian, or person who has legal custody to file the complaint and motion would not be in the best interest of the minor.

(D)   The complaint must:

(1)   allege that the defendant is engaged in harassment in the first or second degree or stalking and must state the time, place, and manner of the acts complained of, and other facts and circumstances upon which relief is sought;

(2)   be verified; and

(3)   inform the defendant of his right to retain counsel to represent him at the hearing on the complaint.

(D)(E)   The magistrates court must provide forms to facilitate the preparation and filing of a complaint and motion for a restraining order by a plaintiff not represented by counsel. The court must not charge a fee for filing a complaint and motion for a restraining order against a person engaged in harassment or stalking. However, the court shall assess a filing fee against the nonprevailing party in an action for a restraining order. The court may hold a person in contempt of court for failure to pay this filing fee.

(E)(F)   A restraining order remains in effect for a fixed period of time of not less than one year, as determined by the court on a case-by-case basis.

(F)(G)   Notwithstanding another provision of law, a restraining order or a temporary restraining order issued pursuant to this article is enforceable throughout this State."

SECTION   2.   Section 59-32-10 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding an appropriately numbered item at the end to read:

"( )   'Teen dating violence' means physical, sexual, psychological, or emotional violence between persons eighteen years of age or younger within a dating relationship."

SECTION   3.   Section 59-32-20 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 59-32-20.   (A)   Before August 1, 1988, the board, through the department, shall select or develop an instructional unit with Upon the next cyclical review of the health standards, the board shall ensure that all standards include separate components addressing the subjects of reproductive health education,; family life education,; pregnancy prevention education,; and sexually transmitted diseases; sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention, with separate units appropriate for each age level from four-year-old kindergarten through twelfth grade; and teen dating violence education and make the instructional unit available to local school districts. The board, through the department, also shall make available information about other programs developed by other states upon request of a local school district.

(B)   In addition to the provisions of subsection (A), before September 1, 2015, the board, through the department, shall select or develop instructional units in sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention, with separate units appropriate for each age level from four-year-old kindergarten through twelfth grade the board, through the department, shall make available information developed by other states upon request of a local school district. The board shall also make available to districts a list of instructional materials that meet state standards and include any subjects added after the most recent cyclical review. The local school boards shall continue to adopt or develop curriculum locally."

SECTION   4.   Section 59-32-30 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 59-32-30.   (A)   Pursuant to guidelines developed by the board, each local school board shall implement the following program of instruction:

(1)   Beginning with the 1988-89 school year, for grades kindergarten through five, instruction in comprehensive health education must include the following subjects: community health, consumer health, environmental health, growth and development, nutritional health, personal health, prevention and control of diseases and disorders, safety and accident prevention, substance use and abuse, dental health, and mental and emotional health, and sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention. Sexually transmitted diseases as defined in the annual Department of Health and Environmental Control List of Reportable Diseases are to be excluded from instruction on the prevention and control of diseases and disorders. At the discretion of the local board, age-appropriate instruction in reproductive health may be included.

(2)   Beginning with the 1988-1989 school year, for grades six through eight, instruction in comprehensive health must include the following subjects: community health, consumer health, environmental health, growth and development, nutritional health, personal health, prevention and control of diseases and disorders, safety and accident prevention, substance use and abuse, dental health, mental and emotional health, and reproductive health education, sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention, and teen dating violence education. Sexually transmitted diseases are to be included as a part of instruction. At the discretion of the local board, instruction in family life education or pregnancy prevention education or both may be included, but instruction in these subjects may not include an explanation of the methods of contraception before the sixth grade. Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, for grades six through eight, instruction in comprehensive health education also must include the subject of domestic violence.

(3)   Beginning with the 1989-90 school year, at least one time during the four years of grades nine through twelve, each student shall receive instruction in comprehensive health education, including at least seven hundred fifty minutes of reproductive health education and, pregnancy prevention education, sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention, and teen dating violence education.

(4)   The South Carolina Educational Television Commission shall work with the department in developing The South Carolina Department of Education shall provide assistance to local districts, as needed, ensuring that instructional programs and materials that may be available to the school districts meet state standards. Films and other materials may be designed used for the purpose of explaining bodily functions or the human reproductive process. These materials may not contain actual or simulated portrayals of sexual activities or sexual intercourse.

(5)   The program of instruction provided for in this section may not include a discussion of alternate sexual lifestyles from heterosexual relationships including, but not limited to, homosexual relationships except in the context of instruction concerning sexually transmitted diseases.

(6)   In grades nine through twelve, students must also be given appropriate instruction that adoption is a positive alternative.

(7)   At least one time during the entire four years of grades nine through twelve, each student shall receive instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), which must include, but not be limited to, hands-only CPR and must include awareness in the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Each school district shall use a program that incorporates the instruction of the psychomotor skills necessary to perform CPR developed by the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or an instructional program that is nationally recognized and based on the most current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for CPR and awareness in the use of an AED. Local and statewide school districts shall coordinate with entities that have the experience and necessary equipment for the instruction of CPR and awareness in the use of AEDs; provided, however, that virtual schools may administer the instruction virtually and are exempt from any in-person instructional requirements. A school district must adopt a policy providing a waiver for this requirement for a student absent on the day the instruction occurred, a student with a disability whose individualized education program indicates such student is unable to complete all or a portion of the hands-only CPR requirement, or a student whose parent or guardian completes, in writing, a form approved by the school district opting out of hands-only CPR instruction and AED awareness. The State Board of Education shall incorporate CPR training and AED awareness into the South Carolina Health and Safety Education Curriculum Standards and promulgate regulations to implement this section.

(B)   Local school boards may use the instructional unit made available by the board pursuant to Section 59-32-20, or local boards may shall develop or select their own instructional materials units, curriculum, or both, addressing the subjects of reproductive health education, family life education, and pregnancy prevention education, sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention, and teen dating violence education. To assist in the selection of components and curriculum materials, each local school board shall appoint a thirteen-member local advisory committee consisting of two parents, three clergy, two health professionals, two teachers, two students, one being the president of the student body of a high school, and two other persons not employed by the local school district.

(C)   The time required for health instruction for students in kindergarten through eighth grade must not be reduced below the level required during the 1986-87 prior school year. Health instruction for students in grades nine through twelve may be given either as part of an existing course or as a special course.

(D)   No contraceptive device or contraceptive medication may be distributed in or on the school grounds of any public elementary or secondary school. No school district may contract with any contraceptive provider for their distribution in or on the school grounds. Except as to that instruction provided by this chapter relating to complications which may develop from all types of abortions, school districts may not offer programs, instruction, or activities including abortion counseling, information about abortion services, or assist in obtaining abortion, and materials containing this information must not be distributed in schools. Nothing in this section prevents school authorities from referring students to a physician for medical reasons after making reasonable efforts to notify the student's parents or legal guardians or the appropriate court, if applicable.

(E)   Any course or instruction in sexually transmitted diseases must be taught within the reproductive health, family life, or pregnancy prevention education components, or it must be presented as a separate component.

(F)   Instruction in pregnancy prevention education must be presented separately to male and female students.

(G)   Beginning with the 2015-2016 school year, districts annually shall provide age-appropriate instruction in sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention to all students in four-year-old kindergarten, where offered, through twelfth grade. This instruction must be based on the units developed by the board, through the department, pursuant to Section 59-32-20(B)."

SECTION   5.   Section 59-32-50 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 59-32-50.   (A)   Pursuant to policies and guidelines adopted by the local school board, public school principals shall develop a method of notifying parents of students in the relevant grades of the content of the instructional materials concerning reproductive health, family life, pregnancy prevention, and teen dating violence, and of their option to exempt their child from this instruction, and sexually transmitted diseases if instruction in the diseases is presented as a separate component. Notice must be provided sufficiently in advance of a student's enrollment in courses using these instructional materials to allow parents and legal guardians the opportunity to preview the materials and exempt their children.

(B)   A public school principal, upon receipt of a statement signed by a student's parent or legal guardian stating that participation by the student in the health education program conflicts with the family's beliefs, shall exempt that student from any portion or all of the units on reproductive health, family life, and pregnancy prevention, and teen dating violence where any conflicts occur. No student must be penalized as a result of an exemption. School districts shall use procedures to ensure that students exempted from the program by their parents or guardians are not embarrassed by the exemption."

SECTION   6.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SHEALY explained the committee amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 40; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Allen                     Bennett
Campbell                  Campsen                   Climer
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Fanning                   Gambrell                  Goldfinch
Gregory                   Grooms                    Hembree
Hutto                     Johnson                   Kimpson
Leatherman                Malloy                    Martin
Massey                    Matthews, Margie          McElveen
McLeod                    Nicholson                 Peeler
Rankin                    Reese                     Rice
Sabb                      Senn                      Setzler
Shealy                    Sheheen                   Talley
Timmons                   Turner                    Williams
Young

Total--40

NAYS

Total--0

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

Motion Under Rule 26B

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

There was no objection.

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 4003 (Word version) -- Reps. Hiott, Hewitt, Davis, Forrest, Bennett, West, Ott, Atkinson and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 26 TO TITLE 39 SO AS TO ENACT THE "PRODUCE SAFETY ACT", TO ESTABLISH THE AUTHORITY OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO ENFORCE CERTAIN FOOD SAFETY STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO FARM PRODUCE INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE AUTHORITY TO INSPECT CERTAIN FARMS; TO SEIZE, CONDEMN, AND DESTROY COVERED PRODUCE; AND TO OBTAIN A COURT ORDER FOR FORFEITURE AND DESTRUCTION OF COVERED PRODUCE; TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPEAL OF COURT ORDERS; TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS, INCLUDING "FARM" AND "COVERED PRODUCE"; TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS FOR CERTAIN FARMS AND PRODUCE; TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS; TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE CHAPTER; TO PROVIDE FOR THE REPEAL OF THE CHAPTER UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

Senator MASSEY proposed the following amendment (4003R003.SP.ASM), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 9, by striking lines 8-13 and inserting:

/   Section 39-26-130.   A person who wilfully violates the provisions of this chapter is subject to a civil penalty of up to one thousand dollars for each violation as determined by the department. Any person wilfully violating this section also is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than thirty days. The criminal penalty does not apply for violations of state regulations.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MASSEY explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator RICE explained the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 37; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Allen                     Bennett
Campbell                  Campsen                   Climer
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Gambrell                  Goldfinch                 Gregory
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Johnson                   Kimpson                   Leatherman
Malloy                    Martin                    Massey
Matthews, Margie          McElveen                  McLeod
Nicholson                 Peeler                    Rankin
Reese                     Rice                      Setzler
Shealy                    Sheheen                   Talley
Timmons                   Turner                    Williams
Young

Total--37

NAYS

Total--0

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

ACTING PRESIDENT PRESIDES

Senator PEELER assumed the Chair.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator CLIMER rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Motion Adopted

Senator LEATHERMAN moved that when the Senate adjourns tomorrow, it adjourn to meet Monday, May 8, at 1:00 P.M.

Senator MARTIN moved to lay the motion on the table.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 6; Nays 33

AYES

Allen                     Corbin                    Davis
Martin                    Rice                      Talley

Total--6

NAYS

Alexander                 Bennett                   Campbell
Campsen                   Climer                    Cromer
Gambrell                  Goldfinch                 Gregory
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Johnson                   Kimpson                   Leatherman
Malloy                    Massey                    Matthews, Margie
McElveen                  McLeod                    Nicholson
Peeler                    Rankin                    Reese
Sabb                      Senn                      Setzler
Shealy                    Sheheen                   Timmons
Turner                    Williams                  Young

Total--33

The Senate refused to table the motion.

Senator MARTIN spoke on the motion.

The question then was the adoption of the motion.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 34; Nays 5

AYES

Alexander                 Allen                     Bennett
Campbell                  Campsen                   Climer
Cromer                    Gambrell                  Goldfinch
Gregory                   Grooms                    Hembree
Hutto                     Johnson                   Kimpson
Leatherman                Malloy                    Massey
Matthews, Margie          McElveen                  McLeod
Nicholson                 Peeler                    Rankin
Reese                     Sabb                      Senn
Setzler                   Shealy                    Sheheen
Timmons                   Turner                    Williams
Young

Total--34

NAYS

Corbin                    Davis                     Martin
Rice                      Talley

Total--5

The motion was adopted.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator McELVEEN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
CARRIED OVER

H. 3927 (Word version) -- Reps. Simrill, Herbkersman, J.E. Smith, Bernstein, G.M. Smith and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 41-43-100, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE STATE FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY AUTHORITY APPROVE INTEREST RATES ON BONDS ISSUED TO FINANCE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA JOBS-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND ACT, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT AND TO SPECIFY APPROVAL OF THESE INTEREST RATES BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IS NOT REQUIRED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 41-43-110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE POWER OF THE AUTHORITY TO ISSUE CERTAIN BONDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING AND RELATED CHANGES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry proposed the following amendment (3927R001.KM.TCA):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, by striking line 43 and inserting:

/   Economic Development. The authority shall report its activities undertaken pursuant to this subsection to the Joint Bond Review Committee. The report shall be due annually on July thirty-first. The authority also shall publish on its website a complete list of bonds authorized by the authority pursuant to this subsection. The list shall include information concerning the authorized bonds that the authority deems relevant."         /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 3 in its entirety and inserting:

/   SECTION   3.   This act takes effect June 1, 2017.         /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator BENNETT explained the committee amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

On motion of Senator REESE, the Bill was carried over.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
CARRIED OVER

H. 3132 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith and B. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 71, TITLE 44, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HOSPICE PROGRAMS, SO AS TO ADD DEFINITIONS; TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN LICENSING REQUIREMENTS; TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGISTRATION OF MULTIPLE OFFICE LOCATIONS OF LICENSED HOSPICES; TO PROVIDE FOR EXPANSION OF HOSPICE SERVICE AREAS; TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL TO APPROVE APPLICATIONS FOR REGISTRATION OF MULTIPLE OFFICE LOCATIONS AND FOR EXPANSION OF HOSPICE SERVICE AREAS, WITH EXCEPTIONS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (VR\3132C001.GT.VR17), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, page 5, after line 32, by adding immediately after Section 44-71-80:

/ Section 44-71-85.     (A)   Upon the death of a patient receiving outpatient services from a hospice, ownership of unused medications related to the care of the patient constituting Schedule II, III, IV, or V controlled substances under 21 C.F.R. Part 1308 shall transfer to the hospice for immediate disposal. Each hospice providing outpatient services shall establish a written procedure to ensure safe disposal of unused controlled substances at the time of a patient's death. Upon the death of a patient receiving outpatient services, in the presence of a witness, the hospice nurse shall record in the medical record the name and quantity of each unused controlled substance. The hospice nurse then shall conduct immediate disposal at the site of care by complying with Environmental Protection Agency and Drug Enforcement Administration guidelines for safe disposal or immediate mail-back to a collector registered pursuant to 21 C.F.R Section 1317.40. If conducting immediate disposal at the site of care, the nurse should perform the disposal in the presence of a witness, who shall sign a document indicating their witnessing of the disposal. If participating in immediate mail-back to a registered collector, the hospice nurse shall deposit the unused medications into the mail-back envelope and seal the envelope at the site of outpatient services. Hospice employees must not remove any medications from the site of outpatient services other than to conduct immediate mail-back to a registered collector. The hospice nurse shall record the method of disposal in the medical record.

(B)   For the purpose of disposing unused medication constituting a Schedule II, III, IV, or V controlled substance under 21 C.F.R. Part 1308, a hospice facility is a 'long-term care facility' as defined by 21 C.F.R. Section 1300.01. The hospice facility shall dispose of unused Schedule II, III, IV, and V controlled substances in accordance with 21 C.F.R. Sections 1317.30 and 1317.80. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator CAMPBELL explained the committee amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator CAMPBELL explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Bill was carried over.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
AMENDED, AMENDMENT PROPOSED
CARRIED OVER

H. 3824 (Word version) -- Reps. Henderson, Bedingfield, Fry, Huggins, Johnson, Hewitt, Crawford, Duckworth, Allison, Arrington, Forrester, Tallon, Hamilton, Felder, Elliott, Jordan, B. Newton, Martin, Erickson, Jefferson, Cobb-Hunter, Govan, Long, Putnam, Cogswell and Collins: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-1645 SO AS TO REQUIRE HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS TO REVIEW A PATIENT'S CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRESCRIPTION HISTORY, AS MAINTAINED IN THE PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM, BEFORE PRESCRIBING A SCHEDULE II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 44-53-1630, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM, SO AS TO ADD A DEFINITION OF "PRACTITIONER"; TO AMEND SECTION 44-53-1640, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 44-53-1680, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATING REQUIREMENTS OF THE PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PENALTY IF A PRACTITIONER OR AUTHORIZED DELEGATE FAILS TO REVIEW A PATIENT'S CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRESCRIPTION HISTORY, AS MAINTAINED IN THE PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM, BEFORE PRESCRIBING A SCHEDULE II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; BY ADDING SECTION 40-15-145 SO AS TO ESTABLISH EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DENTISTS ADDRESSING THE PRESCRIPTION AND MONITORING OF CERTAIN CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES; TO AMEND SECTIONS 40-37-240, 40-47-965, AS AMENDED, AND 40-51-140, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS, SO AS TO ADD REQUIREMENTS ADDRESSING THE PRESCRIPTION AND MONITORING OF CERTAIN CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-43-130, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR PHARMACISTS, SO AS TO ADD REQUIREMENTS ADDRESSING CERTAIN CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (H-3824), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2 by striking lines 34-39 and inserting:

/     (4)   a practitioner approving the administration of a Schedule II controlled substance by a healthcare provider licensed in South Carolina;

(5)   a practitioner prescribing a Schedule II controlled substance for a patient in a skilled nursing facility, nursing home, community residential care facility, or an assisted living facility and the patient's medications are stored, given and monitored by staff; or   /

Amend the bill further, page 3, by striking lines 15-38 and inserting:

/     "Section 44-53-1630.     As used in this section article:

(1)   'Authorized delegate' means an individual who is approved as having access to the prescription monitoring program and who is directly supervised by an authorized practitioner or pharmacist.

(2)   'Controlled substances' means those substances listed in Schedules II, III, and IV of the schedules provided for in Sections 44-53-210, 44-53-230, 44-53-250, and 44-53-270.

(2)(3)   'Dispenser' means a person who delivers a Schedule II-IV controlled substance to the ultimate user, but does not include:

(a)   a licensed hospital pharmacy that distributes controlled substances for the purpose of inpatient hospital care or dispenses prescriptions for controlled substances at the time of discharge from the hospital;

(b)   a practitioner or other authorized person who administers these controlled substances; or

(c)   a wholesale distributor of a Schedule II-IV controlled substance.

(3)(4)   'Drug control' means the Department of Health and Environmental Control, Bureau of Drug Control.

(4)(5)   'Patient' means the person or animal who is the ultimate user of a drug for whom a prescription is issued or for whom a drug is dispensed, or both.

(5)(6)   'Practitioner' means an individual authorized pursuant to state and federal law to prescribe controlled   substances."/

Amend the bill further, page 5 by striking lines 12-20 and inserting:

/       "Section 40-15-145.   As part of the biennial continuing education required by the board or pursuant to law, including Regulation 39-5, South Carolina Code of State Regulations, a dentist authorized pursuant to state and federal law to prescribe controlled substances shall complete at least two hours of continuing education every two years related to approved procedures of prescribing and monitoring controlled substances listed in Schedules II, III, and IV of the schedules provided for in Sections 44-53-210, 44-53-230, and 44-53-250."           /

Amend the bill further, page 6, by striking lines 1-9 and inserting:

/       "(3)   every two years, the physician assistant shall provide documentation of four continuing education contact hours in prescribing controlled substances acceptable to the board related to approved procedures of prescribing and monitoring controlled substances listed in Schedules II, III, and IV of the schedules provided for in Sections 44-53-210, 44-53-230, and 44-53-250;"           /

Amend the bill further page 6, by striking lines 14-37 and inserting:

/     "Section 40-51-140.   A person licensed to practice podiatry must pay an annual a biennial renewal license fee which must be established in regulation by the board, annually biennially must complete twelve twenty-four hours of continuing medical education through a program approved by the South Carolina Board of Podiatry Examiners, and must submit documentation to the board of completion of this education. If a podiatrist is authorized pursuant to state and federal law to prescribe controlled substances, two of the requisite biennial hours of continuing education must be related to approved procedures of prescribing and monitoring controlled substances listed in Schedules II, III, and IV of the schedules provided for in Sections 44-53-210, 44-53-230, and 44-53-250. If the renewal fee is not accompanied with the appropriate continuing education documentation, the license may not be renewed and is considered late and subject to the penalties promulgated by the board in regulation. This continuing education requirement takes effect and applies to licenses being renewed beginning in 1997. If the renewal fee is not paid within two months after the date of notification by the secretary department that the fee is due, the license of the person failing to pay shall be considered late and a penalty imposed as determined by regulation. After an additional sixty days a nonrenewed license must be suspended or revoked and must be reissued only by a majority vote of the Board of Podiatry Examiners and upon payment of a late fee and penalties established by the board."/

Amend the bill further, page 6 by striking lines 42-43 and page 7 by striking lines 1-10 and inserting:

/     "(B)   Each licensed pharmacist, as a condition of an active status license renewal, shall complete fifteen hours (1.5 CEU's) of American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE) accredited continuing pharmacy education or continuing medical education (CME), Category I, or both, each license year. Of the fifteen hours, a minimum of six hours must be obtained through attendance at lectures, seminars, or workshops. At least fifty percent of the total number of hours required must be in drug therapy or patient management. and at least one hour must be related to approved procedures for monitoring controlled substances listed in Schedules II, III and IV of the schedules provided for in Sections 44-53-210, 44-53-230, and 44-53-250."                 /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator CAMPBELL explained the committee amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator CROMER proposed the following amendment (WAB\3824C001.AGM.WAB17), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:

/ SECTION   __.A.     Section 40-43-82(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)(1)   Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, a supervising pharmacist may authorize a certified pharmacy technician to perform any of the following actions including, but not limited to:

(1)(a)   receive receiving and initiate initiating verbal telephone orders;

(2)(b)   conduct conducting one time prescription transfers;

(3)(c)   check checking a technician's refill of medications if the medication is to be administered by a licensed health care professional in an institutional setting; and

(4)(d)   check checking a technician's repackaging of medications from bulk to unit dose in an institutional setting.

(2)   Nothing in this section prevents the Board of Pharmacy from establishing duties for a certified technician; provided, however, that a certified technician is prohibited from checking another technician's fill, refill, or repackaging of medications for delivery to a patient in an outpatient setting."

B.   Section 40-43-82 is amended by adding an appropriately lettered new subsection to read:

"( )   Pharmacy technicians are exempt from continuing education requirements for the first renewal period following initial registration."

SECTION   __.   Section 40-43-86(B)(4)(b) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(b)   The pharmacist-in-charge shall develop and implement written policies and procedures to specify the duties to be performed by pharmacy technicians. The duties and responsibilities of these personnel shall be consistent with their training and experience. These policies and procedures shall, at a minimum, specify that pharmacy technicians are to be personally supervised by a licensed pharmacist who has the ability to control and who is responsible for the activities of pharmacy technicians and that pharmacy technicians are not assigned duties that may be performed only by a licensed pharmacist. One pharmacist may not supervise more than three a total of four pharmacy technicians at a time; through June 30, 2006, at least one of these three technicians must be state-certified, and after June 30, 2006, at least two of these three technicians must be state-certified, including both state certified and non-state certified technicians. One pharmacist may not supervise more than two non-state certified technicians at a time. If a pharmacist supervises only one or two pharmacy technicians, these technicians are not required to be state-certified. Pharmacy technicians do not include personnel in the prescription area performing only clerical functions, including data entry up to the point of dispensing, as defined in Section 40-43-30(14)."

SECTION   __.   Section 40-43-130(G) is amended by adding an appropriately numbered new item to read:

"( )   Pharmacy technicians are exempt from continuing education requirements while enrolled in a pharmacy technician program, as well as during the first renewal period following successful completion of the program." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator CROMER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator ALEXANDER proposed the following amendment (3824R001.DR.TCA), which was adopted:

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

/   SECTION   __.   Chapter 43, Title 40 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 40-43-75.   (A)   For purposes of this section:

(1)   'Renal dialysis facility' or 'RDF' means an outpatient facility that treats and offers staff-assisted dialysis or training and support services for self-dialysis patients to end-stage renal disease patients, as defined by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. An RDF may be composed of one or more fixed buildings, mobile units, or a combination of them, as defined in R. 61-91.101(Q). An RDF must be certified by Medicare to provide dialysis-related services to ESRD patients and must have a medical director licensed as a physician, pursuant to Chapter 47, Title 40, on staff.

(2)   'End-stage renal disease' or 'ESRD' means the disease state, and associated conditions, defined under 42 C.F.R. 406.13 and the United States Social Security Act.

(B)   An RDF may deliver a legend drug or device to a patient of an RDF if:

(1)   the drug or device is for home use by the patient or for administration in the facility as required by the prescriber's order or prescription;

(2)   the drug or device is dispensed to the RDF by a properly licensed resident or nonresident pharmacy licensed by the board or administered by a properly licensed healthcare practitioner;

(3)   the drug or device is dispensed by the pharmacy pursuant to a valid prescription issued by a licensed practitioner, as defined in Section 40-43-30(45);

(4)   the drug or device delivered by the RDF is properly labeled in accordance with state and federal law;

(5)   the drug or device is held by the RDF in a secure location in an area not accessible to the public, and packages containing drugs or devices are delivered by RDF staff, unopened, to the patient;

(6)   the patient is given a choice of receiving the drug or device from the RDF, at their home, or from another agent;

(7)   the drugs exclude controlled substances; and

(8)   the RDF maintains policies and procedures concerning how it will receive, store, maintain, and return any drugs or devices that are not picked up by the patient and returned to the dispensing pharmacy.

(C)   The provisions of this section do not waive any other requirements to obtain licensure, permits, or certification as required by law to possess legend drug products. A facility engaged in an activity related to the delivery or distribution of legend drugs still shall hold the requisite licensure or drug permits required by law."       /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ALEXANDER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator RANKIN proposed the following amendment (3824R002.DR.LAR):

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

/SECTION   __.   Section 40-43-86(P) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(P)   If a pharmacist receives a request for a prescription refill and the pharmacist is unable to obtain refill authorization from the prescriber, the pharmacist may dispense, a one-time emergency refill once within a twelve-month period, of up to a seventy-two hour an emergency refill of up to a thirty-day supply of the prescribed medication if:

(1)   the prescription is not for a controlled substance;

(2)   the medication is essential to the maintenance of life or to the continuation of therapy;

(3)   in the pharmacist's professional judgment, continuing the therapy for seventy-two hours up to thirty days will produce no undesirable health consequences or cause physical or mental discomfort;

(4)   the pharmacist properly records the dispensing; and

(5)   the dispensing pharmacist notifies the prescriber of the emergency dispensing refill and the amount of the refill, not to exceed a thirty-day supply, within seventy-two hours a reasonable time, but no later than thirty days after the one-time emergency once in twelve months refill dispensing."

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RANKIN explained the amendment.

On motion of Senator RANKIN, the Bill was carried over.

CARRIED OVER

H. 3649 (Word version) -- Reps. Crawford and Sandifer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RULES AND OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD MAY PROVIDE ADVICE AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION CONCERNING THE DEVELOPMENT OF STATUTORY REVISIONS AND OTHER MATTERS AS THE DEPARTMENT REQUESTS CONCERNING THE ADMINISTRATION OF CHAPTER 3, TITLE 40; TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-115, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO REVISE THIS JURISDICTION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-3-290, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS FROM CHAPTER 3, TITLE 40, SO AS TO REVISE CRITERIA FOR CERTAIN EXEMPT BUILDINGS AND DETACHED SINGLE-FAMILY OR TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

Senator DAVIS explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Bill was carried over.

S. 83 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-60 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER, TO INCLUDE WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER THE SALE OR DELIVERY OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, THEIR ANALOGUES, OR OTHER UNLAWFUL SUBSTANCES THAT CAUSE THE DEATH OF THE USER WHEN INGESTED, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CONVICTED OF INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER MUST BE IMPRISONED NOT MORE THAN FIFTEEN YEARS.

On motion of Senator HEMBREE, the Bill was carried over.

S. 92 (Word version) -- Senators Gregory, Bennett, Fanning and Shealy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-3-130(C), CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE AWARD OF ALIMONY AND OTHER ALLOWANCES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN EARNINGS OF A SUBSEQUENT SPOUSE ARE NOT TO BE CONSIDERED BY THE COURT WHEN MAKING, MODIFYING, OR TERMINATING THE AWARD OF ALIMONY.

On motion of Senator TALLEY, the Bill was carried over.

S. 324 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Hutto and McElveen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 23-31-240, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PERSONS ALLOWED TO CARRY A CONCEALABLE WEAPON WHILE ON DUTY, SO AS TO INCLUDE PERSONS WHO ARE RETIRED FROM CERTAIN OFFICES AND CLERKS OF COURT IN THE PURVIEW OF THE STATUTE.

Senator HEMBREE explained the committee amendment.

On motion of Senator HEMBREE, the Bill was carried over.

H. 3215 (Word version) -- Rep. J.E. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 16-17-770 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF IMPERSONATING A LAWYER AND PROVIDE GRADUATED PENALTIES.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.

OBJECTION

H. 3591 (Word version) -- Reps. Govan, J.E. Smith, Allison, Erickson, G.R. Smith, Felder, Douglas, Martin, Ridgeway, Robinson-Simpson, Yow, Williams, Wheeler, Loftis, D.C. Moss, Henegan, Ryhal, Jordan, Fry, Ballentine, Henderson, Crawford, S. Rivers, Herbkersman, W. Newton, Anthony, Lowe, Arrington, Thayer, Duckworth, Putnam, Gagnon, White, Simrill, McCoy, Stavrinakis, Elliott, Daning, Crosby, Sottile, Cogswell, Neal, McKnight, Hart, McEachern, West, Bamberg, Anderson, Hayes, Norrell, Cobb-Hunter, Davis, B. Newton, Ott, Hosey, Knight, Jefferson, Brown and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-152-32, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO BENCHMARKS AND OBJECTIVES REQUIRED AS PART OF THE FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS COMPREHENSIVE LONG-RANGE INITIATIVE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BENCHMARKS AND OBJECTIVES MUST BE APPROVED BY THE FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND POSTED ON THE INTERNET WEBSITE OF THE STATE OFFICE OF FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-152-33, RELATING TO THE FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS ASSESSMENT, SO AS TO IMPOSE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS FOR REPORTING AND USE OF THE RESULTS OF THE ASSESSMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 59-152-50, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MISCELLANEOUS REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-152-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO FIRST STEP PARTNERSHIP BOARDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE OFFICE OF FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS ANNUALLY SHALL PUBLISH THE COMPREHENSIVE PLANS OF THESE BOARDS ON THE INTERNET WEBSITE OF THE OFFICE, TO LIMIT THE PERIOD OF TIME IN WHICH LOCAL OFFICES MAY INCREASE THEIR ESTABLISHED OVERHEAD COST RATES, AND TO PROVIDE LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS THAT ARE NOT PART OF MULTICOUNTY PARTNERSHIPS AND EXCEED THEIR OVERHEAD COST RATES ARE INELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE STATE FUNDS; TO AMEND SECTION 63-11-1710, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE BOARD ANNUALLY TO PROVIDE ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS REQUIRED OF STATE AGENCIES; TO AMEND SECTION 63-11-1720, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE OFFICE OF FIRST STEPS STUDY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO DELETE PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE COMMITTEE AND TO PROVIDE FOR LEGISLATIVE REVIEW OF THE STATE OFFICE OF FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS IF THE OFFICE IS NOT REVIEWED BY THE HOUSE AND SENATE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEES WITHIN A PROSCRIBED TIME PERIOD; TO AMEND SECTION 63-11-1740, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE STATE OFFICE OF FIRST STEPS TO SCHOOL READINESS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE BOARD TO SUBMIT JUSTIFICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING THE SALARY OF ITS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 63-11-1735 RELATING TO THE BABYNET INTERAGENCY EARLY INTERVENTION SYSTEM.

Senator MARTIN objected to the consideration of the Bill.

H. 3289 (Word version) -- Reps. G.R. Smith and Knight: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1930, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DISTANCE THAT MUST BE MAINTAINED BETWEEN VEHICLES TRAVELING ALONG A HIGHWAY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO THE OPERATOR OF ANY NONLEADING VEHICLE TRAVELING IN A PROCESSION OF VEHICLES IF THE SPEED OF EACH VEHICLE IS AUTOMATICALLY COORDINATED.

Senator MALLOY objected to the consideration of the Bill.

H. 4033 (Word version) -- Reps. Hixon, Taylor, Blackwell, Clyburn, Allison, Daning, Yow, Erickson, B. Newton, Bennett, Arrington, Murphy, Crawford and Clemmons: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1535, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPEEDING IN WORK ZONES AND PENALTIES ASSOCIATED WITH SPEEDING IN WORK ZONES, SO AS TO DELETE THIS PROVISION AND PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR THE TERMS "HIGHWAY WORK ZONE" AND "HIGHWAY WORKER", TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF "ENDANGERMENT OF A HIGHWAY WORKER", AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR THIS OFFENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-720, RELATING TO THE POINT SYSTEM ESTABLISHED FOR THE EVALUATION OF THE DRIVING RECORD OF PERSONS OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE OFFENSE OF ENDANGERMENT OF A HIGHWAY WORKER RESULTING IN NO INJURY IS A TWO POINT VIOLATION, THE OFFENSE OF ENDANGERMENT OF A HIGHWAY WORKER IN WHICH INJURY OCCURS IS A FOUR POINT VIOLATION, AND THE OFFENSE OF ENDANGERMENT OF A HIGHWAY WORKER IN WHICH GREAT BODILY INJURY OCCURS IS A SIX POINT VIOLATION; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 56-5-1536 RELATING TO DRIVING IN TEMPORARY WORK ZONES AND PENALTIES FOR UNLAWFUL DRIVING IN TEMPORARY WORK ZONES.

Senator MALLOY objected to the consideration of the Bill.

H. 3653 (Word version) -- Reps. Forrester, Yow, Loftis, Henegan, Spires, Anderson, Burns, V.S. Moss, Crawford, Hamilton, Felder, Norman, Anthony, Chumley, Erickson, Gagnon, Hayes, Henderson, Hosey, Jefferson, S. Rivers, Ryhal, Sandifer, Thayer, Willis, Atkinson, Alexander, West, Hixon, Murphy, Arrington, Bennett and Crosby: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 24 TO TITLE 31 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE OPERATIONS OR EXPANSIONS OF MANUFACTURING AND INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED PUBLIC OR PRIVATE NUISANCES IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE RELATED FINDINGS, TO EXPLICITLY PROHIBIT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM ENACTING ORDINANCES TO THE CONTRARY, TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMINOLOGY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT MAY NOT BE CONSTRUED TO MODIFY STATUTORY EMINENT DOMAIN LAWS OR ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS, AND TO PROVIDE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT DO NOT APPLY TO NUISANCE ACTIONS COMMENCED WITHIN ONE YEAR OF THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS CHAPTER.

Senator KIMPSON objected to the consideration of the Bill.

S. 639 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE PIONEER RURAL WATER DISTRICT TO CEASE ACTIVITY RELATED TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF A WATER TREATMENT PLANT UNTIL A COURT MAKES A FINAL DETERMINATION WHETHER OR NOT PIONEER RURAL WATER DISTRICT HAS THE AUTHORITY TO CONSTRUCT A WATER TREATMENT PLANT.

Senator GAMBRELL objected to the consideration of the Resolution.

H. 3742 (Word version) -- Rep. Pitts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 24-21-230 AND 24-21-280, BOTH AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EMPLOYMENT, DUTIES, AND POWERS OF DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES' AGENTS, HEARING OFFICERS, AND STAFF, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT MAY EMPLOY OFFENDER SUPERVISION SPECIALISTS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT SHALL PROMULGATE REGULATIONS REGARDING THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR THESE EMPLOYEES, AND PROCEDURES FOR CLASSIFYING OFFENDERS AS STANDARD AND LOW-RISK, AND TO PROVIDE THE DUTIES AND AUTHORITY OF AN OFFENDER SUPERVISION SPECIALIST.

Senator MALLOY objected to the consideration of the Bill.

H. 3817 (Word version) -- Reps. Bedingfield, Fry, Henderson, Huggins, Johnson, Hewitt, Crawford, Duckworth, Arrington, Allison, Tallon, Hamilton, Elliott, Jordan, B. Newton, Martin, G.M. Smith, Yow, D.C. Moss, Wheeler, Erickson, V.S. Moss, Long, G.R. Smith, Magnuson, Bradley, Weeks, Taylor, Putnam, Cogswell, Collins, King and Henegan: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-362 SO AS TO ALLOW PHARMACIES AND OTHER ENTITIES TO REGISTER AS A COLLECTOR TO RECEIVE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES AS PART OF LAW ENFORCEMENT CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE TAKE-BACK EVENTS AND OPERATE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE MAIL-BACK PROGRAMS AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL TO FACILITATE AND ENCOURAGE REGISTRATION AND PARTICIPATION.

Senator RANKIN objected to the consideration of the Bill.

H. 4074 (Word version) -- Reps. Clemmons, Yow, J.E. Smith, Williams, Fry, Alexander, Allison, Anderson, Anthony, Arrington, Atkinson, Atwater, Bales, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bedingfield, Bennett, Bernstein, Blackwell, Bowers, Bradley, Brown, Burns, Caskey, Chumley, Clary, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cogswell, Cole, Collins, Crawford, Crosby, Daning, Davis, Delleney, Dillard, Douglas, Duckworth, Elliott, Erickson, Felder, Finlay, Forrest, Forrester, Funderburk, Gagnon, Gilliard, Govan, Hamilton, Hardee, Hart, Hayes, Henderson, Henegan, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hill, Hiott, Hixon, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Johnson, Jordan, King, Kirby, Knight, Loftis, Long, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, Magnuson, Martin, McCoy, McCravy, McEachern, McKnight, Mitchell, D.C. Moss, V.S. Moss, Murphy, B. Newton, W. Newton, Norrell, Ott, Parks, Pitts, Pope, Putnam, Quinn, Ridgeway, M. Rivers, S. Rivers, Robinson-Simpson, Rutherford, Ryhal, Sandifer, Simrill, G.M. Smith, G.R. Smith, Sottile, Spires, Stavrinakis, Stringer, Tallon, Taylor, Thayer, Thigpen, Toole, Weeks, West, Wheeler, Whipper, White, Whitmire and Willis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO MEMORIALIZE THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AND URGE THEM TO PASS H.R. 2747, THE "ATOMIC VETERANS SERVICE MEDAL ACT".

Senator HUTTO objected to the consideration of the Resolution.

H. 3886 (Word version) -- Reps. Crawford, Ryhal, Hamilton, Sandifer, Fry, Putnam, Clemmons, Yow, Anderson, Johnson, Hardee, Huggins, Hewitt, Duckworth, Bowers, Sottile, Crosby, Felder, Bennett, Thigpen, Whipper, Brown, Hixon, Taylor, King, Daning, Spires, Henderson, Pitts, Kirby, White, McCravy, Hill, Gagnon, West, Wheeler, Davis, Murphy, Hayes, Ott, V.S. Moss, Lowe, Jordan and McKnight: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 30 TO TITLE 27 SO AS TO ENTITLE THE CHAPTER "HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS"; TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; TO REQUIRE OWNERS OF PROPERTY SUBJECT TO A HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION TO DISCLOSE THE ASSOCIATION'S GOVERNING DOCUMENTS TO PROSPECTIVE OWNERS, TO PROVIDE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS SHALL PROVIDE HOMEOWNERS WITH PRINTED OR ELECTRONIC COPIES OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND THE GOVERNING DOCUMENTS OF THE ASSOCIATION UPON REQUEST AT NO CHARGE, TO PROVIDE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION BOARDS MAY NOT TAKE ACTION TO ADD OR INCREASE FEES AND THE LIKE WITHOUT GIVING CERTAIN NOTICE TO HOMEOWNERS AND TO PROVIDE HOMEOWNERS MAY ATTEND MEETINGS AT WHICH SUCH ACTIONS ARE TO BE TAKEN, TO INSTRUCT THE SOUTH CAROLINA REAL ESTATE COMMISSION TO OFFER AN ONLINE INSTRUCTIONAL COURSE COVERING THE BASICS OF HOMEOWNERS' ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT AND THE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF HOMEOWNERS, TO GRANT CONCURRENT CIVIL JURISDICTION IN CERTAIN ACTIONS BETWEEN HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS AND HOMEOWNERS, AND TO CREATE THE OFFICE OF HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION OMBUDSMAN IN THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, TO PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS, POWERS, AND DUTIES OF THE OMBUDSMAN, AMONG OTHER THINGS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 27-50-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MANDATORY DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS SELLERS OF REAL PROPERTY MUST PROVIDE PURCHASERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE PROVISIONS CONCERNING DISCLOSURES OF PROPERTY SUBJECT TO HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION GOVERNANCE.

Senator RANKIN explained the Bill.

Senator RANKIN objected to further consideration of the Bill.

PRESIDENT PRESIDES

The PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator SHEHEEN, with unanimous consent, Senators CAMPBELL, TURNER and SHEHEEN were granted leave to attend a subcommittee meeting and were granted leave to vote from the balcony.

ADOPTED

H. 3544 (Word version) -- Rep. Hayes: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF OLD RIVER ROAD IN THE TOWN OF FORK FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH FIRST LOOP ROAD TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 41 "THOMAS NEAL ROGERS HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS CONTAINING THIS DESIGNATION.

The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

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

MOTION ADOPTED

At 2:50 P.M., on motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.

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

CONCURRENCE

S. 344 (Word version) -- Senator Corbin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-80(A) OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO APPLICATION FOR A LICENSE OR PERMIT, TO PROVIDE THAT AN APPLICATION FOR A DRIVER'S LICENSE OR PERMIT MUST ALLOW AN APPLICANT WHO HAS BEEN MEDICALLY DIAGNOSED WITH AUTISM TO VOLUNTARILY DISCLOSE THAT HE IS AUTISTIC, WHICH MUST BE INDICATED BY A SYMBOL DESIGNATED BY THE DEPARTMENT ON THE DRIVER'S LICENSE AND CONTAINED IN THE DRIVER'S RECORD.

The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.

On motion of Senator CORBIN, 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.

LOCAL APPOINTMENTS
Confirmations

Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:

Initial Appointment, Oconee County Part-Time Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2017, and to expire April 30, 2021
Daniel J. Pollock, 114 Old Station Rd., West Union, SC 29696

Initial Appointment, Oconee County Part-Time Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2017, and to expire April 30, 2021
Erin Cox Moon, 14007 Cherokee Path Drive, Seneca, SC 29678

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator NICHOLSON, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Watson Dorn, Sr. of Greenwood, S.C. Mr. Watson was the last surviving of his ten siblings. He graduated from the University of South Carolina and served in the Navy during World War II. He later became his brother's campaign manager and later earned a Jurist Doctorate law degree from USC. Watson practiced law in Greenwood for over 60 years and was active in the SC Bar Association, school board, Kiwanis Club and American Legion. He was a member of First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. Watson enjoyed playing golf, gardening, reading, cooking and spending time with loved ones. Watson was a loving father and devoted grandfather who will be dearly missed.

ADJOURNMENT

At 2:53 P.M., on motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.

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