South Carolina General Assembly
125th Session, 2023-2024
Journal of the Senate

                                                    NO. 9

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2023

_________

TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2024

Tuesday, January 23, 2024
(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:

Isaiah 32:8

Isaiah, writing about the ideal servant of the Lord, tells us that:
". . .those who are noble plan noble things, and by noble things they stand."

Let us pray: Holy and loving God, we clearly are still caught in an ongoing period of "nobility deficit," and we are not addressing nobility in rank, but in character. Indeed, across our land, and surely around the globe, there continue to be far too many leaders who care not much at all about doing what is right and just -- what is noble. Yet this is during a period when our world, our nation, our state, cries out for public servants who demonstrate moral qualities that are beyond reproach, for leaders who hold fast to highest ethical ideals, for women and men who choose to embody true "nobility" in every aspect of life. May it be, Lord, that each Senator and aide who serves here in the Senate of South Carolina will always be counted among that group of leaders who are indeed noble, giving their very best for the people they serve. In Your wondrous name we pray, O Lord. Amen.

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

Call of the Senate

Senator SHEALY moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Cash                      Climer
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Devine                    Fanning                   Garrett
Goldfinch                 Grooms                    Gustafson
Harpootlian               Hembree                   Hutto
Johnson, Kevin            Johnson, Michael          Kimbrell
Malloy                    Massey                    Matthews
McLeod                    Peeler                    Reichenbach
Rice                      Sabb                      Senn
Setzler                   Shealy                    Stephens
Talley                    Tedder                    Turner
Verdin                    Williams                  Young

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

Doctor of the Day

Senator RICE introduced Dr. Phyllis MacGilvray, M.D. of Pickens County, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 305 (Word version)     Sens. Garrett, Matthews and Adams
S. 953 (Word version)     Sens. Hutto, Senn, Kimbrell and Reichenbach
S. 976 (Word version)     Sen. Hutto
S. 977 (Word version)     Sen. Hutto

RECALLED

S. 978 (Word version) -- Senator McLeod: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO INVITE ALL SOUTH CAROLINIANS TO PARTICIPATE IN "NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY" ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024, DURING AMERICAN HEART MONTH AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL CITIZENS OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO JOIN TOGETHER IN REAFFIRMING OUR COMMITMENT TO FIGHTING CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN WOMEN THROUGHOUT THIS GREAT STATE.

Senator VERDIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Senate Resolution from the Committee on Medical Affairs.

The Senate Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Medical Affairs and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 4849 (Word version) -- Reps. Calhoon, Erickson and Bradley: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DELARE JULY 2024 AS JUVENILE ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH AND URGE CITIZENS TO BE MINDFUL OF THE CONDITION AND ITS EFFECT ON SOUTH CAROLINA'S YOUTH.

Senator VERDIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 979 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR CINDERELLA SHAW OF LADY'S ISLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN BEAUFORT AND TO CONGRATULATE HER UPON BEING CHOSEN AS AN EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATOR BY CURRICULUM ASSOCIATES.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 980 (Word version) -- Senator Sabb: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR SERGEANT ADRIAN DUNMORE, DEPUTY ERIC WHETSELL, DEPUTY STEPHANIE LAW, CHIEF DEPUTY VERNEY D. CUMBEE, AND LIEUTENANT SHANNON L. COKER, ALL OF THE WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE, FOR EXCEPTIONAL COURAGE IN THE FACE OF DANGER WHILE IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM UPON RECEIVING THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION 2023 MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 981 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 32-8-305, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS RELATING TO CREMATION AUTHORIZATIONS AND PROCEDURES, SO AS TO PROVIDE RELATED DEFINITIONS FOR THE ALKALINE HYDROLYSIS PROCESS AS A MEANS OF CREMATION OF HUMAN REMAINS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 32-8-347 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF ALKALINE HYDROLYSIS AS A MEANS OF CREMATION OF HUMAN REMAINS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 982 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-2297 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A BROADCAST ENTITY SHALL SOURCE CERTAIN GROSS RECEIPTS FROM BROADCASTING TO THIS STATE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 983 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-750, RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVERS FAILING TO STOP WHEN SIGNALED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 984 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR SKILLSUSA FOR ITS EFFORTS TO ENSURE THAT AMERICA HAS A SKILLED WORKFORCE AND TO DECLARE FEBRUARY 4-10, 2024, AS "SKILLSUSA WEEK" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 985 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MARCH 5, 2024 AS "DISABILITY ADVOCACY DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0527km-vc24.docx

The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 4887 (Word version) -- Reps. Lowe, Alexander, Jordan, Kirby, Williams, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Blackwell, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Carter, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Connell, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Elliott, Erickson, Felder, Forrest, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Henegan, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Hosey, Howard, Hyde, Jefferson, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, S. Jones, W. Jones, Kilmartin, King, Landing, Lawson, Leber, Ligon, Long, Magnuson, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, J. Moore, T. Moore, A. M. Morgan, T. A. Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Nutt, O'Neal, Oremus, Ott, Pace, Pedalino, Pendarvis, Pope, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sandifer, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Thayer, Thigpen, Trantham, Vaughan, Weeks, West, Wetmore, Wheeler, White, Whitmire, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DEPUTY CORPORAL EARL "TOMMY" RAUCH OF THE FLORENCE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL COURAGE IN THE FACE OF DANGER WHILE IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM UPON RECEIVING THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION 2023 MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 4888 (Word version) -- Reps. Lowe, Alexander, Jordan, Kirby, Williams, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Blackwell, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Carter, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Connell, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Elliott, Erickson, Felder, Forrest, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Henegan, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Hosey, Howard, Hyde, Jefferson, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, S. Jones, W. Jones, Kilmartin, King, Landing, Lawson, Leber, Ligon, Long, Magnuson, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, J. Moore, T. Moore, A. M. Morgan, T. A. Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Nutt, O'Neal, Oremus, Ott, Pace, Pedalino, Pendarvis, Pope, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sandifer, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Thayer, Thigpen, Trantham, Vaughan, Weeks, West, Wetmore, Wheeler, White, Whitmire, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DEPUTY JOHN SCOTT POSTON OF THE FLORENCE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL COURAGE IN THE FACE OF DANGER WHILE IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM UPON RECEIVING THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION 2023 MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 4889 (Word version) -- Rep. Gagnon: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THURMOND BISHOP OF ABBEVILLE COUNTY ON THE OCCASION OF HIS EIGHTY-FIFTH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HIM A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MUCH HAPPINESS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 4895 (Word version) -- Reps. Caskey, Jordan and Rutherford: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE JULY 31, 2024, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL A NEW TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JULY 31, 2034; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 8, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE, 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 9, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT FOR THE CIRCUIT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2024, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2024, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE, 30, 2028; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2025; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2024, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2025; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT FOR THE CIRCUIT COURT, NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2024, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, ELEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, ELEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, TWELFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL A NEW TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2030; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2024, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT FOR THE CIRCUIT COURT, FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2024, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT FOR THE CIRCUIT COURT, FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2024, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE, SEAT 4, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE, SEAT 8, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE, SEAT 11, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2026; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE, SEAT 16, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2024, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2025; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT FOR THE FAMILY COURT, FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2024, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT FOR THE FAMILY COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2024, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2025; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 6, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2025; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE JULY 1, 2024, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT FOR THE FAMILY COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2024, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030; AND TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Operations and Management.

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

SECOND READING BILL

S. 972 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 595 OF 1994, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF TRUSTEES IN GREENWOOD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 50, SO AS TO REAPPORTION THE NINE SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS FROM WHICH THE TRUSTEES ARE ELECTED, TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE DISTRICTS ARE DELINEATED, AND TO PROVIDE DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THESE REAPPORTIONED DISTRICTS.

On motion of Senator GARRETT.

OBJECTION

H. 3518 (Word version) -- Reps. Felder and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-395, RELATING TO THE DRIVER'S LICENSE REINSTATEMENT FEE PAYMENT PROGRAM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DRIVERS' LICENSES ISSUED UNDER THIS PROGRAM ARE VALID FOR AN ADDITIONAL SIX MONTHS, TO REVISE THE AMOUNT OF REINSTATEMENT FEES OWED BY PERSONS TO BECOME ELIGIBLE TO OBTAIN THESE DRIVERS' LICENSES, TO REVISE THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE FEES COLLECTED, TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY PROVIDE PERSONS IN THE PROGRAM A FEE SCHEDULE OF THE AMOUNTS OWED AND THE ABILITY TO MAKE ONLINE PAYMENTS, TO REVISE THE TYPES OF DRIVERS' LICENSE SUSPENSIONS THAT ARE COVERED BY THIS SECTION, AND TO REVISE THE FREQUENCY THAT PERSONS MAY PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM AND THE CONDITIONS FOR FUTURE PARTICIPATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-396, RELATING TO THE DRIVER'S LICENSE SUSPENSION AMNESTY PERIOD, SO AS TO LIMIT THE TYPES OF QUALIFYING SUSPENSIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-10-240, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT UPON LOSS OF INSURANCE, NEW INSURANCE MUST BE OBTAINED OR PERSONS MUST SURRENDER THEIR REGISTRATION AND PLATES, WRITTEN NOTICE BY INSURERS, APPEAL OF SUSPENSIONS, ENFORCEMENT, AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO REVISE THE PERIOD OF TIME VEHICLE OWNERS MUST SURRENDER MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE PLATES AND REGISTRATION CERTIFICATES FOR CERTAIN UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLES, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT GIVES THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES DISCRETION TO AUTHORIZE INSURERS TO UTILIZE ALTERNATE METHODS OF PROVIDING CERTAIN NOTICES TO THE DEPARTMENT, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ALLOWS CERTAIN PERSONS TO APPEAL CERTAIN SUSPENSIONS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE FOR FAILURE TO MEET THE STATE'S FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS IN ERROR, AND TO ALLOW THESE PERSONS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN DOCUMENTS TO SHOW THE SUSPENSION WAS ISSUED IN ERROR; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-10-245, RELATING TO PER DIEM FINES FOR LAPSE IN REQUIRED COVERAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE FINES CONTAINED IN THE SECTION MAY NOT EXCEED TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS PER VEHICLE FOR A FIRST OFFENSE; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 5 OF CHAPTER 10, TITLE 56, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE UNINSURED MOTORIST FUND, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ARTICLE TO REGULATE THE OPERATION OF UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLES, TO DELETE PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT AND COLLECTION OF UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLE FEES, TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, TO REVISE THE AMOUNT OF THE MOTOR VEHICLE REINSTATEMENT FEE AND PROVIDE IT SHALL BE INCREASED ANNUALLY, TO PROVIDE SUSPENDED LICENSES, REGISTRATION CERTIFICATES, LICENSE PLATES, AND DECALS MAY BE RETURNED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES BY ELECTRONIC MEANS OR IN PERSON, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS THAT REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO COLLECT STATISTICS REGARDING VARIOUS MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION, INSURANCE, AND UNINSURED MOTORIST FUND ISSUES.

Senator MALLOY objected to consideration of the Bill.

OBJECTION

H. 4116 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer, M.M. Smith and King: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-19-295 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE DIVIDING OF FEES OR OTHER COMPENSATION CHARGED OR RECEIVED BY LICENSEES OF THE BOARD OF FUNERAL SERVICES WITH ANOTHER PERSON, PARTNERSHIP, CORPORATION, ASSOCIATION, OR LEGAL ENTITY FOR THE DELIVERY OR PERFORMANCE OF FUNERAL SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-7-100, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF PROVISIONS REGULATING PRENEED FUNERAL CONTRACTS, SO AS TO INCREASE FINE RANGES AND PERMANENTLY BAR PERSONS CONVICTED OF A FELONY FROM CONDUCTING PRENEED CONTRACT SALES; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-7-110, RELATING TO THE INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST UNLICENSED PRENEED CONTRACT SALES PROVIDERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE COMPLAINTS TO WHICH THE DEPARTMENT SHALL RESPOND MAY BE WRITTEN OR ORAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-8-360, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE SAFE CREMATION ACT, SO AS TO INCREASE MONETARY FINES AND REQUIRE IMMEDIATE REPORTING OF VIOLATIONS TO THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-8-385, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS THAT CREMATORIES EMPLOY CERTAIN TRAINED STAFF TO PERFORM CREMATIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL CREMATIONS BE PERFORMED BY THESE TRAINED STAFF MEMBERS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF EMBALMERS AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS, SO AS TO REVISE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-30, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF LICENSURE TO PRACTICE FUNERAL SERVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE CONDUCT CONSTITUTING THE PRACTICE OF FUNERAL SERVICES INCLUDES PARTIES WHO EXERCISE ANY CONTROL OR AUTHORITY OVER A FUNERAL ESTABLISHMENT OR ITS EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, OR REPRESENTATIVES, AND TO PROHIBIT CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, OR INDIVIDUALS IN WHOSE NAME APPEARS THE NAME OF A PERSON WITH A REVOKED OR LAPSED LICENSE FROM HAVING A LICENSE TO OPERATE A FUNERAL HOME; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-70, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE BOARD MEMBERS, COMMITTEES, OR EMPLOYEES MAY NOT BE LIABLE FOR ACTS PERFORMED IN THE COURSE OF THEIR OFFICIAL DUTIES IN THE ABSENCE OF MALICE SHOWN AND PROVEN IN A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-80, RELATING TO INSPECTORS EMPLOYED BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO INSTEAD REQUIRE THE BOARD TO EMPLOY AT LEAST TWO INVESTIGATORS WHO MAY BE LICENSED EMBALMERS AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS WITH CERTAIN EXPERIENCE BUT WHO HAVE NOT BEEN DISCIPLINED; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-110, RELATING TO CONDUCT CONSTITUTING UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT BY A LICENSEE OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO MAKE GRAMMATICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-115, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO INCLUDE UNLICENSED PERSONS WITH THIS JURISDICTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-200, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF PROVISIONS PROHIBITING THE PRACTICE OF FUNERAL SERVICES WITHOUT A LICENSE OR USING FALSE INFORMATION TO OBTAIN SUCH LICENSURE, SO AS TO INCREASE MONETARY FINES, AND TO SUBJECT PERSONS WHO AID AND ABET UNLICENSED PERSONS OR ENTITIES IN ENGAGING IN THE PRACTICE OF FUNERAL SERVICE WITHOUT LICENSURE TO THESE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-250, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAMS, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN COURSEWORK IN ETHICS, TO REQUIRE FOUR HOURS OF TOTAL ANNUAL COURSEWORK, TO REQUIRE A CERTAIN PORTION OF THIS COURSEWORK TO BE IN ETHICS, AND TO REQUIRE A CERTAIN PORTION OF THIS COURSEWORK BE COMPLETED IN PERSON; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-290, RELATING TO THE FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITIES OF FUNERAL ESTABLISHMENTS WITH RESPECT TO PAYMENTS RECEIVED FOR FUNERAL MERCHANDISE BEING PURCHASED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THESE PAYMENTS MUST BE KEPT IN A TRUST ACCOUNT UNTIL THE MERCHANDISE IS DELIVERED FOR ITS INTENDED USE OR IS DELIVERED INTO THE PHYSICAL POSSESSION OF THE PURCHASER.

Senator MALLOY objected to consideration of the Bill.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3592 (Word version) -- Reps. Hyde and Carter: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-86, RELATING TO COMPOUNDING OF MEDICATIONS BY PHARMACIES , SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS FOR COMPOUNDING PHARMACIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-87, RELATING TO NUCLEAR/RADIOLOGIC PHARMACY PRACTICES, SO AS TO REMOVE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING NUCLEAR PHARMACY FACILITIES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-88, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR PREPARATION, LABELING, AND DISTRIBUTION OF STERILE PRODUCTS BY PHARMACIES, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN STANDARDS.

Point of Order

Senator MARTIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4159 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman, Davis, M.M. Smith, Erickson, W. Newton, Bradley, Ballentine, Hewitt and Blackwell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA TELEHEALTH AND TELEMEDICINE MODERNIZATION ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 42 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS AND PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN REGULATED HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS WHO PROVIDE HEALTH CARE BY MEANS OF TELEHEALTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE MEDICAL PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO DEFINE "TELEHEALTH"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-37, RELATING TO THE PRACTICE OF TELEMEDICINE, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PRACTICE OF TELEMEDICINE AND TO INCLUDE PROVISIONS CONCERNING TELEHEALTH.

Point of Order

Senator MARTIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

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

MADE ADJOURNED DEBATE

H. 3594 (Word version) -- Reps. B.J. Cox, G.M. Smith, Lowe, Wooten, Hiott, Bailey, Beach, Burns, Caskey, Crawford, Cromer, Elliott, Forrest, Haddon, Hardee, Hixon, Hyde, Jordan, Ligon, Long, Magnuson, May, McCabe, McCravy, A.M. Morgan, T.A. Morgan, T. Moore, B. Newton, Nutt, Oremus, M.M. Smith, S. Jones, Taylor, Thayer, Trantham, Willis, Yow, West, Lawson, Chapman, Chumley, Leber, Mitchell, Pace, Harris, O'Neal, Kilmartin, Murphy, Brewer, Robbins, Hager, Sandifer, Connell, Gilliam, Davis, B.L. Cox, Vaughan, White, Collins, J.E. Johnson, Gagnon, Gibson, W. Newton, Bustos, Herbkersman, Landing, Moss, Pope and Guest: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY/SECOND AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT OF 2023" BY AMENDING SECTION 10-11-320, RELATING TO CARRYING OR DISCHARGING FIREARMS AND EXCEPTIONS FOR CONCEALABLE WEAPONS PERMIT HOLDERS, SO AS TO DELETE A PROVISION THAT MAKES THIS SECTION INAPPLICABLE TO PERSONS THAT POSSESS CONCEALABLE WEAPONS PERMITS AND TO PROVIDE THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO PERSONS WHO POSSESS FIREARMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-20, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CARRYING OF HANDGUNS, SO AS TO REVISE THE PLACES WHERE AND CIRCUMSTANCES UPON WHICH HANDGUNS MAY BE CARRIED, AND PERSONS WHO MAY CARRY HANDGUNS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-50, RELATING TO CERTAIN PENALTIES, DISPOSITION OF FINES, AND FORFEITURE AND DISPOSITION OF HANDGUNS, SO AS TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS TO THE UNLAWFUL CARRYING OF HANDGUNS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-55, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR RETURNING FOUND HANDGUNS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO FILING APPLICATIONS TO OBTAIN FOUND HANDGUNS, AND PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT ALLOW LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES TO MAINTAIN POSSESSION OR DISPOSE OF FOUND HANDGUNS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-420, RELATING TO POSSESSION OF FIREARMS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT EXEMPTS PERSONS WHO POSSESS CONCEALED WEAPON PERMITS FROM THIS PROVISION, AND DELETE THE TERM "WEAPON" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "FIREARM"; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-430, RELATING TO CARRYING WEAPONS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT EXEMPTS PERSONS WHO POSSESS CONCEALED WEAPON PERMITS FROM THIS PROVISION; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-465, RELATING TO THE ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR UNLAWFULLY CARRYING PISTOLS OR FIREARMS ONTO PREMISES OF BUSINESSES SELLING ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR, BEER, OR WINE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THIS PROVISION DOES NOT APPLY TO CERTAIN OFFENSES THAT PROHIBIT PERSONS FROM CARRYING CERTAIN DEADLY WEAPONS, TO PROVIDE THIS PROVISION APPLIES TO PERSONS WHO KNOWINGLY CARRY CERTAIN FIREARMS, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT EXEMPTS PERSONS WHO POSSESS CONCEALED WEAPON PERMITS FROM THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION, AND TO PROVIDE PERSONS LAWFULLY CARRYING FIREARMS WHO DO NOT CONSUME ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE EXEMPT FROM THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-215, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CONCEALED WEAPON PERMITS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS REQUIRING PERMIT HOLDERS TO CARRY PERMITS WHILE CARRYING WEAPONS AND IDENTIFYING THEMSELVES AS PERMIT HOLDERS TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS TO REPORT THE LOSSES OF PERMITS TO SLED, TO REVISE THE PREMISES UPON WHICH PERMIT HOLDERS MUST NOT CARRY WEAPONS, TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR CERTAIN VIOLATIONS, TO REVISE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES EXEMPTIONS TO CARRYING PERMITS, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR CARRYING EXPIRED PERMITS; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-220, RELATING TO THE RIGHT TO ALLOW OR PERMIT CONCEALED WEAPONS UPON PREMISES AND THE POSTING OF SIGNS PROHIBITING THE CARRYING OF WEAPONS, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, THAT PERSONS MUST KNOWINGLY VIOLATE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION TO BE CHARGED WITH A VIOLATION, AND TO PROVIDE THIS SECTION DOES NOT LIMIT PERSONS FROM CARRYING CERTAIN WEAPONS IN STATE PARKS; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-232, RELATING TO CARRYING CONCEALABLE WEAPONS ON PREMISES OF CERTAIN SCHOOLS LEASED BY CHURCHES, SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE CHURCH OFFICIALS OR GOVERNING BODIES MAY ALLOW ANY PERSON TO CARRY A CONCEALABLE WEAPON ON THE LEASED PREMISES; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-235, RELATING TO CONCEALABLE WEAPON SIGN REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE SIGNS MUST BE POSTED AT LOCATIONS WHERE THE CARRYING OF CONCEALABLE WEAPONS ARE PROHIBITED; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-600, RELATING TO RETIRED PERSONNEL, IDENTIFICATION CARDS, AND QUALIFICATIONS FOR CARRYING CONCEALED WEAPONS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; BY REPEALING SECTIONS 16-23-460, 23-31-225, AND 23-31-230, RELATING TO THE CARRYING OF WEAPONS BY INDIVIDUALS ON THEIR PERSON, INTO RESIDENCES OR DWELLINGS, OR BETWEEN A MOTOR VEHICLE AND A RENTED ACCOMMODATION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-500, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARMS BY PERSONS CONVICTED OF VIOLENT OFFENSES, THE CONFISCATION OF CERTAIN WEAPONS, AND THE RETURN OF FIREARMS TO INNOCENT OWNERS, SO AS TO REVISE THE LIST OF CRIMES SUBJECT TO THIS PROVISION AND THE PENALTIES ASSOCIATED WITH VIOLATIONS, AND TO DEFINE THE TERM "CRIME PUNISHABLE BY A MAXIMUM TERM OF IMPRISONMENT OF MORE THAN ONE YEAR".

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of H. 3594, the question being to set the Bill in Adjourned Debate Status.

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

Ayes 27; Nays 17

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Bennett
Cash                      Climer                    Corbin
Cromer                    Davis                     Gambrell
Garrett                   Goldfinch                 Grooms
Gustafson                 Hembree                   Johnson, Michael
Kimbrell                  Loftis                    Martin
Peeler                    Reichenbach               Rice
Senn                      Shealy                    Talley
Turner                    Verdin                    Young

Total--27

NAYS

Allen                     Campsen                   Devine
Harpootlian               Hutto                     Johnson, Kevin
Malloy                    Massey                    Matthews
McElveen                  McLeod                    Rankin
Sabb                      Setzler                   Stephens
Tedder                    Williams

Total--17

The Bill was set for Adjourned Debate.

MOTION ADOPTED

At 12:28 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.

CARRIED OVER

S. 557 (Word version) -- Senators M. Johnson, Peeler, Kimbrell, Adams, Rice, Rankin, Reichenbach, Young, Loftis, Climer, Garrett, Alexander and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3477, RELATING TO THE APPRENTICE INCOME TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF THE CREDIT AND THE NUMBER OF YEARS IN WHICH IT MAY BE CLAIMED.

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

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 305 (Word version) -- Senators Young, M. Johnson, Kimbrell, Turner, Fanning, Climer, Stephens, Rankin, Loftis, Garrett. Matthews and Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-25-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL'S PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE MAY BE AWARDED ON AN INITIAL TEACHING CERTIFICATE IF THE PRIOR EXPERIENCE IS IN OR RELATED TO THE CONTENT FIELD OF THE CERTIFICATE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT EXISTING CERTIFICATE HOLDERS MAY ALSO RECEIVE THE SAME CREDIT FOR PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE.

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

The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (SEDU-305.KN0001S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-25-60(A), (B), and (C) and inserting:
  (A) When reviewing an application by an individual for an educator certificate, the State Department of Education shall award years of experience on the initial certificate for occupational experience in, or related to, the content field of the certificate for which the individual qualifies. Years of experience shall be awarded solely for the purpose of advancement on the teacher salary schedule. To be eligible for years of experience on the educator certificate, the individual must:

(1) have completed at least five years of related occupational experience within the ten years prior to applying for an educator certificate; and

(2) complete and submit a verification of work experience form developed by the State Department of Education with the application for an educator certificate.

(B) Individuals that entered the teaching profession prior to July 1, 2023 with occupational experience in, or related to, the content field of their teaching certificate may complete and submit the verification of work experience form identified in subsection (A)(2) to the State Department of Education to have additional years of experience added to their certificate for the purposes of advancing on the teacher salary schedule. If additional years of experience are awarded, the eligible individual is entitled to have their pay adjusted for the current school year to reflect the new experience step on the employing district's salary schedule. However, the individual is not entitled to retroactive pay for the increased years of experience during prior years of teaching.

(C) Nothing in this section alters any existing requirements for receiving an educator certificate. Individuals with the work experience identified in subsection (A) must still meet all other existing requirements in order to receive an educator certificate.

(D) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted as allowing additional years of experience to be awarded for purposes other than advancement on the teacher salary schedule.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator YOUNG explained the committee amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Amendment No. 1

Senators YOUNG, BENNETT and SETZLER proposed the following amendment (SEDU-305.DB0002S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-25-60(A) and (B) and inserting:
  (A) When reviewing an application by an individual for an educator certificate, the State Department of Education shall award years of experience on the educator certificate for occupational experience in, or related to, the content field of the certificate for which the individual qualifies. One year of experience credit may be awarded for every two years of full-time relevant work experience completed by the individual. Years of experience shall be awarded solely for the purpose of advancement on the teacher salary schedule. To be eligible for years of experience on the educator certificate, the individual must complete and submit a verification of work experience form developed by the State Department of Education with the application for an educator certificate.

(B) Individuals that entered the teaching profession prior to July 1, 2023 with occupational experience in, or related to, the content field of their teaching certificate may complete and submit the verification of relevant work experience form to the State Department of Education to have additional years of experience added to their certificate for the purposes of advancing on the teacher salary schedule. If additional years of experience are awarded, the eligible individual is entitled to have their pay adjusted for the current school year to reflect the new experience step on the employing district's salary schedule. However, the individual is not entitled to retroactive pay for the increased years of experience during prior years of teaching or for any purpose other than advancement on the teacher salary schedule.

(C) Nothing in this section alters any existing requirements for receiving an educator certificate. Individuals with the work experience identified in subsection (A) must still meet all other existing requirements in order to receive an educator certificate.

(D) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted as allowing additional years of experience to be awarded for purposes other than advancement on the teacher salary schedule. Years of experience awarded pursuant to this section for relevant work experience are not considered service credit for the purposes of the state retirement or state health plans administered by PEBA.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator YOUNG explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Amendment No. 3

Senator STEPHENS proposed the following amendment (SMIN-305.AA0015S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 59-25-60, by adding an item to read:
  (E) For purposes of this section, "related occupational experience" includes experience as a teacher's aide, teacher's assistant, or other full-time experience in the classroom as a paraprofessional if that individual holds a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in a relevant field.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator STEPHENS explained the amendment.

Senator FANNING spoke on the 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 45; Nays 0

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Campsen                   Cash
Climer                    Corbin                    Cromer
Davis                     Devine                    Fanning
Gambrell                  Garrett                   Goldfinch
Grooms                    Gustafson                 Harpootlian
Hembree                   Hutto                     Johnson, Kevin
Johnson, Michael          Kimbrell                  Loftis
Malloy                    Martin                    Massey
Matthews                  McElveen                  McLeod
Peeler                    Rankin                    Reichenbach
Rice                      Sabb                      Senn
Setzler                   Shealy                    Stephens
Talley                    Tedder                    Turner
Verdin                    Williams                  Young

Total--45

NAYS

Total--0

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

Motion Adopted

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

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senators RICE and ALEXANDER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Joseph Lee "Joe" Burgess of Easley, S.C. Joe was a graduate of Pickens High School and The Citadel. In 1968, he began a long career coaching football, basketball, baseball, golf and track at various high schools. Joe later became the sports director and sales representative for WELP radio station in Easley. While Joe worked for WELP, he began a small wholesale firework business that continued to grow over the years called Carolina Fireworks in Easley. He began teaching at Liberty High School in 1987 where he later became the head football coach and was inducted into the Liberty High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023. Joe enjoyed gospel music concerts and spending time with friends and family. He was a member of the Easley Lions Club and taught Sunday School and sang in the choir at both Liberty First Baptist Church and Easley First Baptist Church. Joe was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.

and

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator GARRETT, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Abner Pierce Stockman, Jr. of Greenwood, S.C. Pierce graduated from Wofford College and retired as president of Stockman Oil Company and Stockman Lands. He was a founding member of CEF-Lakelands Good News Club. He served as a board member for The Museum and Railroad Historical Center and Greenwood Methodist Home. He was a Boy Scout leader and a life member of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was an active member of Main Street United Methodist Church. Pierce was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.

ADJOURNMENT

At 12:58 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 1:00 P.M.

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