South Carolina General Assembly
111th Session, 1995-1996
Journal of the Senate

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 1995

Wednesday, May 24, 1995
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

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

A quorum being present the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:

Beloved, hear the prophet Jeremiah, Chapter 29, (v. 11f):

"For surely I know the plans I have

for your welfare, says the Lord, and

not for harm, to give you a future

with hope. Then when you call upon

Me and come and pray to Me, I will

hear you."
Let us pray.

Dear Lord, it is the waywardness of human nature that weaves and enslaves us in a tangled web. Our spirits become jaded in the deal.

It is reassuring and comforting to know that You have a plan for our lives. Help us to find Your plan for our lives.

Let us, who have received so much, be willing to give much in service to our people.

By our faithful stewardship this day, may we put out the word that truly "THINE IS THE KINGDOM, AND THE POWER AND THE GLORY FOREVER AND EVER."

Amen.

Point of Quorum

Senator RICHTER made the point that a quorum was not present. It was ascertained that a quorum was not present.

Call of the Senate

Senator MOORE moved that a call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the call:

Alexander                 Bryan                     Cork
Courson                   Courtney                  Drummond
Elliott                   Ford                      Giese
Glover                    Gregory                   Hayes
Holland                   Jackson                   Land
Lander                    Leatherman                Martin
Matthews                  McConnell                 McGill
Mescher                   Moore                     O'Dell
Passailaigue              Patterson                 Peeler
Rankin                    Reese                     Richter
Rose                      Russell                   Saleeby
Setzler                   Short                     Smith, G.
Smith, J.V.               Stilwell                  Thomas
Washington                Williams                  Wilson

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

Presence Recorded

Senator WALDREP recorded his presence subsequent to the Call of the Senate.

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

VETO OVERRIDDEN

(R78) S. 732 -- Senator Drummond: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 902 OF 1964, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ABBEVILLE COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION FROM SEVEN TO ELEVEN MEMBERS.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

May 17, 1995
Mr. President and Members of the Senate:

I am hereby returning without my approval S. 732, R. 78, an Act:
TO AMEND ACT 902 OF 1964, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ABBEVILLE COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION FROM SEVEN TO ELEVEN MEMBERS.

This veto is based upon my belief that S. 732, R. 78 of 1995, is unconstitutional. It is clearly an act for a specific county. Article VIII, Section 7 states that "[n]o laws for a specific county shall be enacted."

For the above reason, I am returning S. 732, R. 78, without my signature.

Sincerely,
David M. Beasley

The veto of the Governor was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the veto of the Governor be overridden.

The question was put: Shall the Act become law, the veto of the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding?

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

Ayes 44; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Bryan                     Cork
Courson                   Courtney                  Drummond
Elliott                   Ford                      Giese
Glover                    Gregory                   Hayes
Holland                   Jackson                   Land
Lander                    Leatherman                Leventis
Martin                    Matthews                  McConnell
McGill                    Mescher                   Moore
O'Dell                    Passailaigue              Patterson
Peeler                    Rankin                    Reese
Richter                   Rose                      Russell
Saleeby                   Setzler                   Short
Smith, G.                 Smith, J.V.               Stilwell
Thomas                    Waldrep                   Washington
Williams                  Wilson                    

TOTAL--44

NAYS

TOTAL--0

The necessary two-thirds vote having been received, the veto of the Governor was overridden, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Doctor of the Day

Senator LEATHERMAN introduced Dr. Steve Ross of Florence, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

S. 219--CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED
Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon the amendments proposed by the House to:
S. 219 -- Senators Greg Smith, Leventis, Cork, Rankin, Thomas and Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-25-70, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ARRESTS IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CASES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A PERSON WHO COMMITS OR THREATENS TO COMMIT AN ACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UPON A FAMILY OR HOUSEHOLD MEMBER MUST BE ARRESTED.
asks for a Committee of Conference, and has appointed Reps. Wofford, Hodges and Meacham of the committee on the part of the House.

Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT appointed Senators HOLLAND, MOORE and COURSON of 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 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
S. 238 -- Senators Leatherman and Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-33-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS UNDER THE HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION ACT OF 1987, SO AS TO MAKE CHANGES TO THE DEFINITION OF "COPAYMENT" OR "DEDUCTIBLE"; TO AMEND SECTION 38-33-80, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION ACT OF 1987, THE PROVISION THAT THE ENROLLEE IS ENTITLED TO EVIDENCE OF COVERAGE, THE CONTENTS OF THE EVIDENCE OF COVERAGE, DISCONTINUANCE OR REPLACEMENT OF COVERAGE, AND CHARGES FOR SERVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION THAT ISSUES A HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION CONTRACT WHICH REQUIRES THE ENROLLEE TO PAY A SPECIFIED PERCENTAGE OF THE COST OF COVERED HEALTH CARE SERVICES SHALL CALCULATE THOSE COPAYMENTS AND DEDUCTIBLES ON THE NEGOTIATED REDUCED RATE OF THE PROVIDER, AND PROVIDE THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION PRECLUDES A HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION FROM ISSUING A CONTRACT WHICH CONTAINS FIXED DOLLAR COPAYMENTS AND DEDUCTIBLES; AND TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-241 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INSURER THAT NEGOTIATES REDUCED RATES WITH PROVIDERS FOR COVERED HEALTH CARE SERVICES UNDER AN INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP ACCIDENT AND HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY MUST PROVIDE THAT PERCENTAGE COPAYMENTS AND DEDUCTIBLES PAID BY THE INSURED ARE APPLIED TO THE NEGOTIATED REDUCED RATES OF THAT PROVIDER, AND PROVIDE THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION PRECLUDES AN INSURER FROM ISSUING A POLICY WHICH CONTAINS FIXED DOLLAR COPAYMENTS AND DEDUCTIBLES.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

S. 365--CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED
Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it refuses to concur in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
S. 365 -- Senators Setzler, Stilwell, Cork, Moore, Lander, Courson and Leventis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-103-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE STATE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, SO AS TO REVISE THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CHAIRMAN IS SELECTED; TO AMEND SECTION 59-103-60, RELATING TO RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION TO THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD AND THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE AS A RECIPIENT OF SUCH RECOMMENDATIONS AND DELETE THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD AND PROVIDE THAT THE HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE AND THE SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE AS WELL AS THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD MAY REFER TO THE COMMISSION CERTAIN REQUESTS OF INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING; AND TO AMEND SECTION 59-103-90, RELATING TO THE PROFESSIONAL STAFF OF THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE COMMISSION TO SERVE AT ITS PLEASURE WITH NO GRIEVANCE RIGHTS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE OTHER PROFESSIONAL STAFF COMPLEMENT OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE ESTABLISHED BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RATHER THAN THE COMMISSION.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

On motion of Senator SETZLER, the Senate insisted upon its amendments to S. 365 and asked for a Committee of Conference.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT appointed Senators SETZLER, BRYAN and STILWELL of 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 24, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
S. 533 -- Finance Committee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW A GOVERNING BODY OF A MUNICIPALITY BY ORDINANCE TO EXEMPT FROM MUNICIPAL AD VALOREM TAX FOR NOT MORE THAN FIVE YEARS PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE MUNICIPALITY RECEIVING THE FIVE-YEAR EXEMPTION FROM COUNTY AD VALOREM TAXES AS NEW CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS, CORPORATE OFFICE FACILITIES, DISTRIBUTION FACILITIES, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FACILITIES, AND ADDITIONS TO SUCH FACILITIES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THIS EXEMPTION FIRST IS ALLOWED WHEN THE STATE CONSTITUTION IS AMENDED SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE EXEMPTION.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
S. 611 -- Senators McConnell and Washington: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-197 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE REPORTING OF CERTAIN FINANCIAL INFORMATION BY EACH MEDICAL SCHOOL RECEIVING AN APPROPRIATION FROM THE STATE.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
S. 670 -- Senator Holland: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE KERSHAW COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MUST BE PAID THE SUM OF SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLARS FOR EACH MEETING AT WHICH HE IS IN ATTENDANCE.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
S. 753 -- Senator Passailaigue: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 12, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TAXATION, BY ADDING CHAPTERS 6, 8, AND 20, SO AS TO REVISE, REORGANIZE, AND RECODIFY STATE TAX LAWS IMPOSING THE INDIVIDUAL AND CORPORATE INCOME TAX, PROVIDING FOR THE WITHHOLDING OF INCOME TAXES, AND IMPOSING THE CORPORATION LICENSE TAX; TO AMEND TITLE 12 BY ADDING CHAPTERS 56 AND 58, WHICH SHALL CONTAIN RESPECTIVELY THE FORMER PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 3 OF CHAPTER 54, THE SETOFF DEBT COLLECTION ACT AND ARTICLE 5 OF CHAPTER 54, THE SOUTH CAROLINA TAXPAYERS' BILL OF RIGHTS; TO AMEND CHAPTER 54 OF TITLE 12 BY ADDING SECTIONS 12-54-15, 12-54-17, 12-54-42, 12-54-47, 12-54-85, 12-54-127, AND 12-54-135 SO AS TO MOVE ENFORCEMENT PROVISIONS TO THE CHAPTER CONSTITUTING THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTION AND ENFORCEMENT OF TAXES LEVIED AND ASSESSED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND TAXATION; BY ADDING SECTION 50-1-280, SO AS TO MOVE THE PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE NONGAME WILDLIFE AND NATURAL AREAS FUND TO THE APPROPRIATE LOCATION IN TITLE 50, RELATING TO FISH, GAME, AND WATERCRAFT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-4-330, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO WITNESSES BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND TAXATION, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DIRECTOR AND DESIGNATED OFFICERS TO ADMINISTER OATHS AND TAKE ACKNOWLEDGMENTS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 11-35-5230, AS AMENDED, 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, 12-54-30, AS AMENDED, 12-54-40, AS AMENDED, 12-54-55, AS AMENDED, 12-54-120, AS AMENDED, 12-54-210, 12-54-240, AS AMENDED, 41-44-10, 41-44-20, AND 41-44-70, ALL RELATING TO TAXATION, SO AS TO CONFORM THE SECTIONS TO THE RECODIFIED CHAPTERS ADDED BY THIS ACT, TO PROVIDE THAT A REPEAL OF A SECTION OF THE 1976 CODE BY THIS ACT DOES NOT PREVENT THE ASSESSMENT OR COLLECTION OF ANY TAX, INTEREST, OR PENALTIES DUE BEFORE THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ACT, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUAL APPLICATION OF CERTAIN DEPARTMENT REGULATIONS PROMULGATED PURSUANT TO THE PREDECESSOR PROVISIONS OF THE CHAPTERS ADDED BY THIS ACT, TO PROVIDE FOR CROSS REFERENCES AND THE DUTIES OF THE CODE COMMISSIONER IN THE RECODIFICATION ACCOMPLISHED BY THIS ACT; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTERS 7, 9, AND 19 OF TITLE 12 AND SECTIONS 41-44-30, 41-44-40, 41-44-50, 41-44-90, AND 41-44-100, ALL OF THE 1976 CODE, AND ALL RELATING TO TAXATION, EFFECTIVE FOR TAXABLE YEARS BEGINNING AFTER 1995.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on S. 767, R. 79 by a vote of 4 to 0:
(R79) S. 767 -- Senators Matthews and Williams: AN ACT TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO REMOVE FROM THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM THAT PORTION OF SECONDARY ROAD S-38-1840 IN ORANGEBURG COUNTY BETWEEN THE GATES AT EITHER END OF THE ORANGEBURG-WILKINSON HIGH SCHOOL.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on S. 802, R. 80 by a vote of 5 to 0:
(R80) S. 802 -- Senators Mescher, Rose and Richter: AN ACT TO DEVOLVE THE AUTHORITY FOR APPOINTMENTS AND BUDGETARY APPROVALS FOR CERTAIN OFFICES, BOARDS, AND COMMISSIONS FROM THE JOINT LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION REPRESENTING BERKELEY COUNTY TO THE GOVERNING BODY OF BERKELEY COUNTY.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Reps. Knotts, Scott and Kirsh of the Committee of Conference on the part of the House on:
H. 3037 -- Reps. Kirsh, Simrill, Meacham, S. Whipper, Stille, Walker, Sandifer, Cain, Whatley, Shissias, Riser and Clyburn: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2947 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN A PERSON COMMITS CERTAIN DRUG AND ALCOHOL-RELATED MOTOR VEHICLE OFFENSES AND A MINOR WAS A PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE AT THE TIME OF THE OFFENSE, THE PERSON IS GUILTY OF THE OFFENSE OF CHILD ENDANGERMENT AND MUST BE PENALIZED BY A MANDATORY FINE OR IMPRISONMENT NOT LESS THAN ONE-HALF OF THE MAXIMUM FINE OR IMPRISONMENT GIVEN FOR THE ORIGINAL OFFENSE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON MAY BE CONVICTED OF CHILD ENDANGERMENT IN ADDITION TO THE OTHER OFFENSES.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 23, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Reps. Martin, Harrison and Limbaugh of the Committee of Conference on the part of the House on:
H. 3096 -- Reps. Thomas, Marchbanks, Simrill, Cromer, Walker, Vaughn, Wilder, Tripp, Elliott, Wells, Stille, Kelley, Richardson, Gamble, Stuart, Phillips, D. Smith, Law, Allison, Harrison, Keyserling, Tucker, Meacham, Shissias, Robinson, Baxley and Spearman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-1-60, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "VIOLENT CRIMES", SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CRIME OF HOMICIDE BY CHILD ABUSE.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 24, 1995

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3608 -- Reps. Govan, Beatty, Moody-Lawrence and White: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-19-485 SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR DESIGNATING CERTAIN MOTOR VEHICLES AS "WRECKAGE" OR "SALVAGE" IN A MANNER WHICH SUFFICES TO INFORM THE TRANSFEREE OF SUCH A VEHICLE OF THE VEHICLE'S TRUE CONDITION.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

H. 3613--CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED
Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., May 17, 1995

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. 3613 -- Reps. Wilkins, Huff, Delleney, Knotts, Townsend, Limehouse, Keegan, Witherspoon, Fleming, Marchbanks, Tripp, Felder, Lanford, Herdklotz, Easterday, A. Young, Hallman, Law, Limbaugh, Cotty, Thomas, Harrell, Sandifer, Sharpe, Fair, Haskins, Richardson, Fulmer, J. Young, Chamblee, Riser, Cain, Jaskwhich, Beatty, R. Smith, Simrill, Walker, Robinson, Rice, Dantzler, Stille, Stuart, Wofford, Wells, Trotter, Mason, Clyburn, Harrison, Klauber, Cato, Vaughn, Martin, Davenport and Kirsh: A BILL TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA FAMILY INDEPENDENCE ACT OF 1995. (Abbreviated Title)
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

On motion of Senator MOORE, the Senate insisted upon its amendments to H. 3613 and asked for a Committee of Conference.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT appointed Senators THOMAS, WASHINGTON and WILSON of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

RECALLED

H. 3578 -- Reps. Wilkins, McMahand, Tripp, Haskins, Walker, Littlejohn, Allison, Rice, Easterday, D. Smith, Davenport, Jaskwhich, Herdklotz, Wells, Lanford, Cato and Fair: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTIONS 5-3-15 AND 55-11-185 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY AN AIRPORT DISTRICT COMPRISED OF MORE THAN ONE COUNTY MAY NOT BE ANNEXED BY A MUNICIPALITY WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN APPROVAL OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE DISTRICT, AND PROVIDE THAT THE REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE GREENVILLE-SPARTANBURG AIRPORT DISTRICT MAY NOT BE ANNEXED BY A MUNICIPALITY WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN APPROVAL OF THE GREENVILLE-SPARTANBURG AIRPORT COMMISSION.

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

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator LAND, with unanimous consent, the Bill was ordered placed on the Calendar.

OBJECTION

H. 3664 -- Reps. Simrill, Meacham, R. Smith, Whatley, Cato, Sharpe, Limehouse, Limbaugh, Gamble, Littlejohn, Trotter, Robinson, Davenport, Rice, Seithel, Walker, Lanford and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-780, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RECORDS, CONFIDENTIALITY, AND FINGERPRINTING OF JUVENILES, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CONFIDENTIALITY FOR THE NAME, IDENTITY, PICTURE, AND RECORDS OF JUVENILES FOURTEEN YEARS OLD AND OLDER.

Senator LEATHERMAN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources and place it in the status of Interrupted Debate.

Senator LEATHERMAN spoke on the motion.

Senator CORK objected.

RECALLED

H. 3787 -- Reps. Richardson, Cotty, Rice, Cobb-Hunter, Keyserling, J. Brown, Worley, S. Whipper, Limehouse, Moody-Lawrence, Byrd, Shissias, Herdklotz, Lloyd, D. Smith, Wilkes, Mason and Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-33-210, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSES FOR PURPOSES OF THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PRORATED LICENSES; TO REPEAL SECTION 12-33-220, RELATING TO AN OBSOLETE PROVISION ALLOWING PRORATION OF LICENSES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR REFUNDS IN CASES OF CERTAIN LICENSES ISSUED AFTER NOVEMBER, 1994.

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

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator BRYAN, with unanimous consent, the Bill was ordered placed on the Calendar.

RECALLED

H. 3808 -- Reps. Law, Wofford, Kirsh, Dantzler and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-21-735 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PAYMENT OF THE LICENSE TAX ON CIGARETTES AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS BY THE REPORTING METHOD RATHER THAN BY TAX STAMPS; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-21-720, 12-21-730, AND 12-21-820, RELATING TO CIGARETTE LICENSE TAX STAMPS.

Senator DRUMMOND asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Finance.

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator DRUMMOND, with unanimous consent, the Bill was ordered placed on the Calendar.

RECALLED, RECOMMITTED
RETAINING PLACE ON CALENDAR

H. 4159 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-21-3495 SO AS TO LIMIT THE DISTRIBUTION OF PROFITS DERIVED FROM THE GAME OF BINGO.

Senator GREG SMITH asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Finance.

There was no objection.

Recommitted

H. 4159 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-21-3495 SO AS TO LIMIT THE DISTRIBUTION OF PROFITS DERIVED FROM THE GAME OF BINGO.

On motion of Senators McCONNELL and PASSAILAIGUE, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Finance, retaining its place on the Calendar.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 862 -- Senators Elliott and Saleeby: A BILL TO RECOGNIZE THE CHICORA-WACCAMAW INDIAN TRIBE AND THE PEE DEE INDIAN TRIBE AS INDIAN TRIBES OF SOUTH CAROLINA REPRESENTING THE CHICORA-WACCAMAW INDIAN PEOPLE AND THE PEE DEE INDIAN PEOPLE RESPECTIVELY, AND TO CONFER UPON THEM SUCH RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES AS ARE PROVIDED BY LAW TO INDIAN TRIBES OF THIS STATUS.

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

S. 863 -- Senator Ford: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 9, TITLE 58 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, RELATING TO DUTIES, RESTRICTIONS, AND RIGHTS OF TELEPHONE COMPANIES, BY ADDING SECTION 58-9-265 SO AS TO REQUIRE EVERY TELEPHONE COMPANY OR UTILITY, INCLUDING A LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE SERVICE PROVIDER, WHICH LEASES OR RENTS CUSTOMER PREMISES TELEPHONE EQUIPMENT TO RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMERS TO PROVIDE CONSPICUOUS NOTICE TO EACH RESIDENTIAL TELEPHONE SERVICE CUSTOMER OF THE CUSTOMER'S RIGHT TO TERMINATE A LEASE OR RENTAL OF CUSTOMER PREMISES EQUIPMENT PROVIDED BY THE TELEPHONE UTILITY.

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

S. 864 -- Senator Bryan: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 2-7-63, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO PERMANENT PROVISO SHALL BE MADE A PART OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT.

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

S. 865 -- Senator Bryan: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO AMEND RULE 25 OF THE SENATE RULES, RELATING TO GERMANENESS, SO AS TO SPECIFY THAT NO CLAUSE SHALL BE INSERTED IN A BILL UNLESS IT RELATES TO THE SPECIFIC SUBJECT OF THE BILL.

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That Rule 25 of the Rules of the Senate shall be amended to read as follows:

RULE 25.
Clauses in Bill Must Be Germane

No clause shall be inserted in a Bill unless the same it relates to the specific subject of the Bill.

Referred to the Committee on Rules.

S. 866 -- Senators Wilson, Ryberg, Lander and Setzler: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING THE RESIDENTS OF THE TOWN OF SPRINGDALE IN LEXINGTON COUNTY AS THEY PREPARE TO CELEBRATE ON SEPTEMBER 9, 1995, THE FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TOWN'S INCORPORATION.

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

S. 867 -- Senators Peeler, Hayes, Gregory and Short: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO MRS. RUTH LONG GREER OF YORK COUNTY FOR HER MORE THAN THIRTY-EIGHT YEARS OF TRULY OUTSTANDING SERVICE IN EDUCATION ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT.

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

S. 868 -- Senator Moore: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SENATE TO THE FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS OF S.E. (GENE) RICHARDSON OF AIKEN WHO DIED WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 1995.

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 869 -- Senator Washington: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE AND RECOGNIZE HELEN ELLIS PETRILL FOR HER MANY YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY AND BEST WISHES UPON HER RETIREMENT.

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

H. 4238 -- Rep. Fleming: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING UNION HIGH SCHOOL ON CAPTURING ITS SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE NATIONAL SHOOTING CHAMPIONSHIP, ON WINNING THE SCHOLASTIC CATEGORY OF THE 1995 NATIONAL NRA JUNIOR THREE POSITION SMALLBORE RIFLE CHAMPIONSHIPS, AND ON SECURING ITS THIRD CONSECUTIVE NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC AIR RIFLE CHAMPIONSHIP.

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

H. 4241 -- Rep. G. Brown: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING ROBERT E. LEE ACADEMY OF LEE COUNTY ON WINNING THE 1995 SCISAA 3A STATE BASEBALL TITLE.

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

H. 4242 -- Rep. G. Brown: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXTENDING THE CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES TO MRS. SYLVIA A. LONEY UPON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT ON JUNE 30, 1995, FROM THE HIGH HILLS RURAL WATER COMPANY, INC.

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

H. 3427 -- Reps. Harrison and Hodges: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-23-610, RELATING TO JUDICIAL REVIEW OF DECISIONS OF ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGES, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE PROCEDURES FOR SUCH A REVIEW AND FOR WHEN SUCH A JUDICIAL REVIEW IS AUTHORIZED.

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

H. 3742 -- Rep. Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-15-212 SO AS TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR PERFORMING DENTISTRY, DENTAL HYGIENE, OR DENTAL TECHNOLOGICAL WORK IN VIOLATION OF TITLE 40, CHAPTER 15; AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 40-15-120, 40-15-150, AND 40-15-340, ALL RELATING TO CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR SPECIFIC VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM FINE FROM ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS TO TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 3806 -- Reps. Hutson, Meacham, Seithel, Simrill, J. Harris, Knotts, Whatley, Martin, Littlejohn, Wofford, Stille, Limehouse, Stuart, Harrison, Allison, Harwell, Fulmer, Phillips, Davenport, Dantzler, Riser, Vaughn, Fleming, Quinn, Tripp and P. Harris: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2780 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AND INCREASE PENALTIES FOR FAILING TO STOP WHEN MEETING OR OVERTAKING A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2775, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MISDEMEANOR VIOLATIONS FOR FAILING TO STOP FOR A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS, FOR ILLEGALLY ENTERING INTERSECTIONS AND CROSSWALKS, AND FOR PASSING A VEHICLE AT A RAILROAD CROSSING, SO AS TO DELETE THE REFERENCE TO FAILING TO STOP FOR A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS.

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

H. 3928 -- Rep. Hallman: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 31, TITLE 5, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 5-31-215 SO AS TO PROVIDE A MECHANISM FOR THE ADDITION OF EX OFFICIO MEMBERS ON A COMMISSION OF PUBLIC WORKS IN CITIES WITH MORE THAN THIRTY THOUSAND RESIDENTS AND LESS THAN FIFTY THOUSAND RESIDENTS.

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

H. 4015 -- Rep. Wilkins: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-260, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AMENDMENTS TO CHARTERS FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION PROHIBITING THE CREATION OF NEW CLASSES OF STOCK; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-410, RELATING TO MEMBERS, STOCKHOLDERS, AND BONDHOLDERS OF THE CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE AUTHORIZED INVESTORS AND INVESTMENT LIMITS; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-450, RELATING TO VOTING BY STOCKHOLDERS AND MEMBERS OF THE CORPORATION, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS TO MAKE THEM CONSISTENT AND COMPATIBLE WITH HAVING NEW CLASSES OF STOCK; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-460, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOANS TO THE CORPORATION, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS FOR LOAN LIMITS AND INVESTMENT LIMITS; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-630, RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTION; AND TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 33-37-470 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF NEW CLASSES OF STOCK AND ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 33 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR APPLICATION OF THE BUSINESS CORPORATIONS ACT.

Read the first time and on motion of Senator WILSON, with unanimous consent, ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

H. 4018 -- Rep. Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 41-16-75 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A SPECIAL INSPECTOR FROM PERFORMING ELEVATOR INSPECTIONS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Read the first time and on motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, with unanimous consent, ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

H. 4224 -- Reps. Stille, Carnell, McAbee and Townsend: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR PAYMENT FOR THE ATTENDANCE OF MEETINGS BY THE ABBEVILLE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE.

Read the first time and ordered placed on the local and uncontested Calendar without reference.

H. 4229 -- Reps. Klauber, Stille, Carnell and McAbee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-290, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO VOTING PRECINCTS IN GREENWOOD COUNTY, SO AS TO REVISE THESE PRECINCTS AND THE DATE OF THE OFFICIAL MAP ON WHICH THE LINES OF THESE PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED.

Read the first time and ordered placed on the local and uncontested Calendar without reference.

H. 4230 -- Reps. Stoddard, Wilder and Carnell: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR PAYMENT FOR THE ATTENDANCE OF MEETINGS BY THE LAURENS COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE.

Read the first time and ordered placed on the local and uncontested Calendar without reference.

H. 4232 -- Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD - RESEARCH AND STATISTICS, RELATING TO DATA REPORTING REQUIREMENTS PERTAINING TO SUBMISSION OF AMBULATORY MEDICAL ENCOUNTER DATA, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 1859, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Read the first time and on motion of Senator MOORE, with unanimous consent, ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

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

S. 501 -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-110 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY MAY NOT IMPOSE A MORATORIUM ON A CONSTRUCTION PROJECT FOR WHICH A PERMIT HAS BEEN GRANTED WITHOUT GIVING A TWO-WEEK NOTICE IN A NEWSPAPER OF GENERAL CIRCULATION IN THE COUNTY IN WHICH THE PROJECT IS LOCATED AND REQUIRE AT LEAST TWO READINGS WHICH ARE A WEEK APART BEFORE A MORATORIUM MAY BE IMPOSED.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

S. 639 -- Senator Giese: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 16-11-510 AND 16-11-520, BOTH AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MALICIOUS INJURY TO PERSONAL AND REAL PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATING EITHER CRIME APPLY WHEN INJURY TO THE PROPERTY OR PROPERTY LOSS OCCURS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

S. 695 -- Senators Richter and Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-1340, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PAYMENT FOR SUPPORT OR TREATMENT OF A CHILD COMMITTED TO CUSTODY OTHER THAN THAT OF HIS PARENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SOLICITOR MAY PETITION THE FAMILY COURT TO ORDER THE PARENT OR PARENTS OF A CHILD WHO IS COMMITTED BY THE COURT TO THE CUSTODY OTHER THAN THAT OF HIS PARENTS OR WHO IS GIVEN MEDICAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL, OR PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT UNDER ORDER OF THE COURT TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT WHEN THE CHILD IS COMMITTED TO OR DETAINED IN THE CUSTODY OF A COUNTY DETENTION FACILITY OR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE AND TO REQUIRE THE COURT IN MAKING ITS DETERMINATION WHETHER TO ORDER CHILD SUPPORT TO CONSIDER THE CONDUCT OF THE PARENT IN SUPERVISING AND PROVIDING CARE FOR THE CHILD; AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-2180 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE FOR A CHILD COMMITTED TO ITS CUSTODY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL EXPENSES OF A CHILD COMMITTED TO THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE SHALL BE BORNE BY THE STATE EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE PROVIDED BY LAW.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3237 -- Reps. Jennings and Baxley: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 14-1-215, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RETIRED JUDGES OR JUSTICES BEING ASSIGNED BY THE CHIEF JUSTICE TO PRESIDE IN CERTAIN COURTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO FURTHER SCREENING OF ANY JUDGE, RATHER THAN JUST JUDGES OF THE SUPREME COURT AND COURT OF APPEALS BEING ASSIGNED TO SIT ON SUCH COURTS, IS REQUIRED UNTIL THE TERM OF THAT JUDGE WOULD HAVE EXPIRED IF HE RETIRED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION OF HIS THEN CURRENT TERM.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator BRYAN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3307 -- Reps. J. Brown, Baxley, Jennings, Limbaugh, Law, H. Brown, Cotty, Knotts, Witherspoon, A. Young, Townsend, Clyburn, Moody-Lawrence, Rogers, Fleming, Walker, Scott, Hines, Stuart, R. Smith, Neal, Littlejohn, Anderson, Cave, Lanford, Kennedy, Inabinett, Tripp, Stille, Hallman, Phillips, G. Brown, Simrill, Govan, Wright, Wilder, Neilson, S. Whipper, Harwell, Richardson, Breeland, Shissias, Easterday, Fair, Harrison, L. Whipper, Vaughn, Wells, Spearman, McCraw, Herdklotz, Huff, Beatty, Williams, Riser, Kelley, Cooper, J. Young, T. Brown, Dantzler, Haskins, Sharpe, Klauber, Kirsh, Thomas, Byrd, Mason, Davenport and Jaskwhich: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-51-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF PODIATRY, ITS MEMBERS, TERMS, AND REMOVAL, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROCEDURES FOR NOMINATING MEMBERS AND FOR REMOVAL FROM OFFICE AND TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO A MEDICAL CONSULTANT AND A LEGAL ADVISOR TO THE BOARD; TO AMEND SECTION 40-51-80, RELATING TO EXAMINATIONS TO PRACTICE PODIATRIC MEDICINE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE BOARD TO OFFER THEM TWICE ANNUALLY; TO AMEND SECTION 40-51-110, RELATING TO RECIPROCITY, SO AS TO ALLOW RECIPROCAL LICENSING WITHOUT TAKING AN EXAMINATION; TO AMEND SECTION 40-51-130, RELATING TO RECORDING OF LICENSES WITH COUNTY CLERK OF COURT, SO AS TO DELETE THIS REQUIREMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 40-51-160, RELATING TO DISCIPLINARY ACTION BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD TO REQUIRE MENTAL OR PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS AND ACCESS TO RECORDS AND TO USE THEM IN PROCEEDINGS AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR REFUSAL TO CONSENT TO THESE EXAMINATIONS AND ACCESS TO RECORDS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 44-7-70, RELATING TO REPORTS BY THE STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS CONCERNING DISCIPLINARY ACTION AGAINST PHYSICIANS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SUCH REPORTS ON PODIATRISTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3515 -- Reps. Harrison and Hodges: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-13-190, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE ADVANCE SHEETS OF STATUTES, SO AS TO REVISE THE PERSONS AND ENTITIES TO WHOM THE ADVANCE SHEETS MUST BE DISTRIBUTED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 2-13-240, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF SETS OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, SO AS TO REVISE THE PERSONS AND ENTITIES TO WHOM THE SETS MUST BE DISTRIBUTED.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator WILSON from the General Committee submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3638 -- Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, RELATING TO GROUP DAY CARE HOMES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 1755, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3639 -- Reps. Harrison, Jennings, Harwell, Shissias, Klauber and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE FAMILY COURT IN DOMESTIC MATTERS, SO AS TO PERMIT COURT-MANDATED MEDIATION AS WELL AS CONSENSUAL MEDIATION IN THE FAMILY COURTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator PEELER from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3676 -- Reps. Trotter, Meacham, Hutson, P. Harris, L. Whipper, Cooper, Townsend, Simrill, Tripp, Cain, Hines, S. Whipper, Neilson, Kirsh, Limehouse, Anderson, Robinson, Breeland, Rice, Chamblee, Marchbanks, Easterday, Stoddard, Waldrop, Spearman and Sandifer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-15-80, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH A PERSON IS CONSIDERED TO BE PRACTICING DENTAL HYGIENE, SO AS TO REVISE CIRCUMSTANCES IN SCHOOL SETTINGS UNDER WHICH A SEALANT MAY BE APPLIED AND A PROPHYLAXIS PERFORMED BY A DENTAL HYGIENIST.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3703 -- Reps. Hallman, Baxley, Quinn, Cobb-Hunter, Kirsh, Jennings, A. Young, Stuart, R. Smith, Lloyd, Herdklotz, Harrison, Littlejohn, Meacham, Sharpe, Simrill, G. Brown, Robinson, Fulmer, Stoddard, Seithel, Fair, Wright, H. Brown, Limehouse, Vaughn, Jaskwhich, Inabinett, Haskins, Wells, Beatty, Tripp, Easterday, Wofford, Walker, Law, Marchbanks, Waldrop, Riser, Stille, D. Smith, Sandifer, Cotty, Cain, Whatley, Gamble, Hutson, Koon, Lanford, Tucker, Davenport, Harwell, Limbaugh, Felder, Cooper, Mason, Chamblee, J. Harris, Wilkes, Boan, Carnell, Fleming, Spearman, Hodges, J. Young, Dantzler, Martin, Klauber, Bailey, Richardson and Witherspoon: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 24-3-530, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CAPITAL PUNISHMENT BY ELECTROCUTION, SO AS TO REQUIRE CAPITAL PUNISHMENT BY ELECTROCUTION OR LETHAL INJECTION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator PEELER from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3711 -- Reps. Baxley, G. Brown, Elliott, Wright, Worley, Jennings and Sandifer: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-15-105 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE, UPON CERTIFICATION AND SUPERVISION, DENTAL HYGIENISTS AND EXPANDED DUTY DENTAL ASSISTANTS TO MONITOR NITROUS OXIDE ANESTHESIA.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator PEELER from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3712 -- Reps. Baxley, G. Brown, Elliott, Wright, Worley, Jennings and Sandifer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-15-80, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH A PERSON IS CONSIDERED TO BE PRACTICING DENTAL HYGIENE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT UPON CERTIFICATION AND UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF A DENTIST A DENTAL HYGIENIST MAY ADMINISTER INFILTRATION ANESTHESIA.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3733 -- Reps. Elliott, Inabinett, G. Brown, Neilson, Hines, Cain, Wright, Lloyd, Littlejohn, Jaskwhich, T. Brown, Govan, Stoddard, Bailey, Jennings, Rhoad, Phillips, Meacham, Kinon, Davenport and Chamblee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-210, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS UNDER THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT, SO AS TO ADD CERTAIN LANGUAGE TO THE DEFINITION OF "FAIR-MARKET RENTAL VALUE", AND ADD A DEFINITION FOR "SECURITY DEPOSIT"; TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-240, RELATING TO NOTICE PROVISIONS UNDER THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT, SO AS TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, CLARIFY CERTAIN REFERENCES, AND DELETE THE REFERENCE TO A REPEALED CODE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-530, RELATING TO TENANT OBLIGATIONS AND ACCESS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A TENANT MAY NOT CHANGE LOCKS ON THE DWELLING UNIT WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF THE LANDLORD; TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-610, RELATING TO TENANT REMEDIES AND NONCOMPLIANCE BY THE LANDLORD IN GENERAL, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE TENANT MAY RECOVER ACTUAL DAMAGES AND OBTAIN INJUNCTIVE RELIEF IN A MAGISTRATE'S OR CIRCUIT COURT, WITHOUT POSTING BOND, FOR "UNREASONABLE" RATHER THAN "ANY" NONCOMPLIANCE BY THE LANDLORD WITH THE RENTAL AGREEMENT OR SECTION 27-40-440; TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-650, RELATING TO TENANT REMEDIES AND FIRE OR CASUALTY DAMAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN ACCOUNTING FOR RENT IN THE EVENT OF TERMINATION OR APPORTIONMENT MUST BE MADE AS OF THE DATE OF THE FIRE OR CASUALTY UNLESS THE FIRE OR CASUALTY WAS DUE TO THE TENANT'S NEGLIGENCE OR CAUSED BY THE TENANT; TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-720, RELATING TO LANDLORD REMEDIES AND NONCOMPLIANCE AFFECTING HEALTH AND SAFETY, SO AS TO PROVIDE, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE TENANT SHALL REIMBURSE THE LANDLORD FOR CERTAIN COSTS; TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-730, RELATING TO LANDLORD REMEDIES FOR ABSENCE, NONUSE, AND ABANDONMENT OF A DWELLING UNIT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF THE TENANT HAS VOLUNTARILY TERMINATED THE UTILITIES AND THERE IS AN UNEXPLAINED ABSENCE OF A TENANT AFTER DEFAULT IN PAYMENT OF RENT, ABANDONMENT IS CONSIDERED IMMEDIATE AND THE FIFTEEN-DAY RULE DOES NOT APPLY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 27-40-790, RELATING TO THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT AND THE PAYMENT OF RENT INTO COURT, SO AS TO DELETE THE WORD "JUDGMENT" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE WORD "DECISION".

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3839 -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 34-3-540, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO COPIES AND REPRODUCTIONS OF BANKING RECORDS AND THEIR ADMISSIBILITY INTO EVIDENCE, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THESE RECORDS MAY BE COPIED AND REPRODUCED, TO REVISE THE ENTITIES TO WHICH THIS SECTION APPLIES, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH COPIES AND REPRODUCTIONS OF THESE RECORDS MAY BE ADMITTED INTO EVIDENCE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GIESE from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4216 -- Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, RELATING TO STATE PRIMARY DRINKING WATER, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 1830, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

CONCURRENCE

S. 46 -- Senators Jackson, Elliott, Rose and Washington: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 20-7-2730, 20-7-2740, 20-7-2800, 20-7-2810, 20-7-2850, AND 20-7-2900, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF LICENSES FOR PRIVATE DAY CARE CENTERS AND RENEWAL THEREOF, APPROVAL OF PUBLIC DAY CARE CENTERS AND RENEWAL THEREOF, THE REGISTRATION OF OPERATORS OF FAMILY DAY CARE HOMES, AND THE ISSUANCE OF LICENSES FOR OR THE REGISTERING OF CHURCH DAY CARE CENTERS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT ALL PERSONS APPLYING FOR A LICENSE AS AN OPERATOR OF OR AN EMPLOYEE AT DAY CARE FACILITIES MUST UNDERGO A FINGERPRINT REVIEW TO BE CONDUCTED BY THE FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION AND TO PROHIBIT THE ISSUANCE OF DAY CARE LICENSES IF SUCH OPERATORS OR EMPLOYEES HAVE BEEN CONVICTED OF CERTAIN CRIMES AND TO AMEND CHAPTER 7 OF TITLE 20 BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-2720, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION MAY NOT CHARGE MORE THAN TEN DOLLARS FOR STATE BACKGROUND CHECKS REQUIRED FOR CHILD CARE FACILITIES.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

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

CONCURRENCE

S. 786 -- Senators Hayes, Peeler, Short and Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 959 OF 1954, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE YORK COUNTY NATURAL GAS AUTHORITY, SO AS TO EXPAND THE SERVICE AREA TO A PORTION OF CHEROKEE COUNTY; TO INCREASE THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE AUTHORITY FROM SIX TO TEN MEMBERS AND CHANGE ITS COMPOSITION; TO PROVIDE THAT ANY MEMBER OF THE AUTHORITY HAVING THREE UNEXCUSED ABSENCES DURING A CALENDAR YEAR MUST BE REMOVED BY THE GOVERNOR; TO AUTHORIZE THE AUTHORITY TO PURCHASE, MANUFACTURE, PRODUCE, AND TRANSPORT LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS, COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS, AND PROPANE; TO CORRECT ARCHAIC REFERENCES; TO AUTHORIZE THE AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH A RESERVE FUND; TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT ALL UNENCUMBERED REVENUES FROM THE SYSTEM BE PAID OVER TO YORK COUNTY AND THE MUNICIPALITIES SERVED BY THE AUTHORITY AND PROVIDE THAT THESE FUNDS MUST BE USED INSTEAD TO EXPAND THE SYSTEM OR TO REDUCE CUSTOMER RATES; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE AUTHORITY MUST DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER OF EACH YEAR CONDUCT AN ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERS OF THE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, COUNTY COUNCIL, AND MUNICIPAL COUNCILS FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPORTING THE PREVIOUS YEAR'S ACTIVITIES AND FUTURE EXPANSION PLANS OF THE AUTHORITY.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator HAYES, 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.

ACTING PRESIDENT PRESIDES

At 11:55 A.M., Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.

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

ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Bills and Joint Resolution were read the third time and having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the titles be changed to that of Acts and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 3824 -- Reps. Baxley, Keyserling, Martin, Thomas, Harrison, Shissias, Stuart, Moody-Lawrence, T. Brown, Wright, Riser, Harvin and McTeer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-4510, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES FOR THE NONGAME WILDLIFE AND NATURAL AREAS FUND, SO AS TO REVISE THE ANNUAL FEE FOR THE PLATES.

H. 3867 -- Reps. Limehouse, Hutson, Rhoad, Riser and Witherspoon: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-235, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION AGAINST TAKING STRIPED BASS UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE LENGTH OF THE STRIPED BASS PROHIBITION AND THE RESTRICTED AREA IN THE SANTEE RIVER AND PROVIDE FOR A RESTRICTION IN THE TAILRACE CANAL AND THE COOPER AND WANDO RIVERS.

H. 4010 -- Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, RELATING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT: USED OIL, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 1831, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

H. 3955 -- Rep. G. Brown: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 50-9-505 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN FISHING ON LAKE ASHWOOD IN LEE COUNTY.

HOUSE BILLS RETURNED

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

H. 3978 -- Reps. Tucker, McAbee, Stoddard, Haskins and Robinson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 57-1-330, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE COMMISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT COMMISSIONERS SHALL CONTINUE TO SERVE UNTIL THEIR SUCCESSORS ARE ELECTED AND QUALIFY.

H. 3135 -- Reps. Hodges, Tucker, Knotts, Inabinett, Baxley and Whatley: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 23-28-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE CHIEF, WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE MUNICIPALITY, TO PROVIDE FOR THE COMPENSATION OF RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS.

SECOND READING BILL
WITH NOTICE OF GENERAL AMENDMENTS

The following Bill having been read the second time with notice of general amendments was ordered placed on the third reading Calendar:

H. 4188 -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-73-455, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE RATES, SO AS TO RAISE THE THRESHOLD MONETARY LEVELS WITH RESPECT TO "CHARGEABLE" ACCIDENTS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE THRESHOLD AMOUNTS, AS CHANGED BY THIS ACT, APPLY ONLY TO ACCIDENTS OCCURRING AFTER JUNE 30, 1995, AND ALSO APPLY TO ANY MERIT RATING PLAN PROMULGATED PURSUANT TO SECTION 38-73-760; AND TO PROVIDE FOR A REVIEW OF THESE THRESHOLD AMOUNTS EVERY THREE YEARS.

Senator SALEEBY explained the Bill.

SECOND READING BILLS

The following Bills and Joint Resolution having been read the second time were ordered placed on the third reading Calendar:

H. 4215 -- Reps. Cain and Sandifer: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 613 OF 1992, RELATING TO THE OCONEE COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF OCONEE COUNTY, SO AS TO REDUCE FROM NINE TO FIVE THE NUMBER OF MEMBERS ON THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, PROVIDE THAT AFTER SERVING THE COMPLETION OF THE CURRENT AT-LARGE TERMS THE DISTRICT IS GOVERNED BY TRUSTEES ELECTED ONLY FROM SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS, PROVIDE FOR THE FILLING OF VACANCIES, AND REQUIRE A FILING FEE FOR A CANDIDATE FOR TRUSTEE.

H. 3741 -- Rep. Tripp: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 29-5-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MECHANICS' LIENS, THE LIEN OF A LABORER, MECHANIC, SUBCONTRACTOR, OR MATERIALMAN, LIMITS ON AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF LIENS FILED BY A SUB-SUBCONTRACTOR OR SUPPLIER, AND SETTLEMENT OF AN ACTION TO ENFORCE A LIEN, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCE TO "NOTICE OF INTENT TO LIEN" AND SUBSTITUTE THEREFOR "NOTICE OF FURNISHING LABOR OR MATERIALS"; TO PROVIDE THAT "NOTICE OF INTENT TO LIEN" IS REPLACED BY "NOTICE OF FURNISHING LABOR OR MATERIALS" AND AUTHORIZE AND DIRECT THE CODE COMMISSIONER TO MAKE THIS CHANGE WHEREVER NECESSARY IN THE STATUTORY LAWS OF THIS STATE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 29-5-23, RELATING TO MECHANICS' LIENS, NOTICE OF PROJECT COMMENCEMENT, AND LOCATION NOTICE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ENTIRE NOTICE OF PROJECT COMMENCEMENT MUST BE POSTED AT THE JOB SITE AND THAT THE FAILURE TO POST A NOTICE OF PROJECT COMMENCEMENT AT THE JOB SITE SHALL RENDER CERTAIN PROVISIONS INAPPLICABLE.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the Bill.

S. 857 -- Fish, Game and Forestry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, RELATING TO HUNT UNITS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 1869, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

AMENDED, OBJECTION

H. 4158 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 12-4-710 AND 12-4-720, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE POWERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND TAXATION WITH RESPECT TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS AND THE METHOD OF APPLYING FOR THE EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO REVISE OR EXTEND THE TIME FOR FILING EXEMPTION APPLICATIONS AND ADD ADDITIONAL CATEGORIES OF EXEMPTIONS FOR WHICH NO APPLICATION IS REQUIRED; TO PROVIDE THAT LISTING A PROPERTY AS EXEMPT ON A PROPERTY TAX RETURN IS CONSIDERED AN APPLICATION; TO REQUIRE PROPERTY TAXPAYERS FILING PROPERTY TAX RETURNS TO CLAIM THE EXEMPTION ON THE RETURN FOR EACH YEAR THE PROPERTY IS EXEMPT; AND TO PROVIDE WHEN ADDITIONAL APPLICATIONS MUST BE FILED BY TAXPAYERS NOT REQUIRED TO FILE ANNUAL PROPERTY TAX RETURNS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO CONFORM IT TO THE AMENDMENTS MADE BY THIS ACT AND TO EXTEND THE EXEMPTION FOR TWO PERSONAL MOTOR VEHICLES OF PERSONS REQUIRED TO USE WHEELCHAIRS TO INSTANCES WHEN THE OWNER IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE SPECIAL MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE PLATE ALLOWED SUCH PERSONS.

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

Senator GIESE proposed the following amendment (PT\2039DW.95), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 4, SECTION 3, immediately following line 7, by inserting:

/D.   Section 12-37-220(B) of the 1976 Code is amended by adding an appropriately numbered item to read:

"( )   one personal motor vehicle owned or leased by a legal guardian of a minor who is blind or required to use a wheelchair when the vehicle is used to transport the minor."/

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator GIESE explained the amendment.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE proposed the following amendment (JIC\6031HTC.95), which was adopted:

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

/SECTION __.   A.   Title 4 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"CHAPTER 12
Fee in Lieu of Property Taxes

Section 4-12-10. As used in this chapter:

(1)   'Department' means the South Carolina Department of Revenue and Taxation.

(2)   'Project' means any land and any buildings and other improvements on the land including, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, water, sewage treatment and disposal facilities, air pollution control facilities, and all other machinery, apparatus, equipment, office facilities, and furnishings which are considered necessary, suitable, or useful.

Section 4-12-20. Every agreement between a county council or county councils and another party in the form of a lease must contain a provision requiring the industry to make payments to the county or counties, municipality or municipalities, school district or school districts, and other political units in which the project is located in lieu of taxes, in the amounts that would result from taxes levied on the project by the county or counties, municipality or municipalities, school district or school districts, and other political unit or units, if the project were owned by the industry, but with appropriate reductions similar to the tax exemptions, if any, which would be afforded to the industry if it were owner of the project.

Section 4-12-30.   (A)   Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 4-12-20, in the case of an agreement in the form of one or more lease agreements for a project qualifying under subsection (B), the county and the investor may enter into an inducement agreement which provides for a payment in lieu of taxes as provided in this section. All references in this section to a lease agreement also are considered to refer to a lease purchase agreement.

(B)   In order for property to qualify for the fee as provided in subsection (D)(2):

(1)   Title to the property must be held by the county or in the case of a project located in an industrial development park as defined in Section 4-1-170, title may be held by more than one county, if each county is a member of the industrial development park. Any real property transferred to the county must include a legal description and plat of the property.

(2)   The investment must be a project which is located in a single county or an industrial development park as defined in Section 4-1-170. A project located on a contiguous tract of land in more than one county, but not in such an industrial development park, may qualify for the fee if:

(a)   the counties agree on the terms of the fee and the distribution of the fee payment;

(b)   the minimum millage rate is not lower than the millage rate applicable to the county in which the greatest amount of investment occurs; and

(c)   all the counties are parties to all agreements establishing the terms of the fee.

(3)   The minimum level of investment must be at least five million dollars and must be invested within the time period provided in subsection (C)(2).

(4)(a)   Except as provided in subsection (B)(4)(b), the investment must be made by a single entity. For purposes of this section:

(i)   any partnership or other association which properly files its South Carolina income tax returns as a partnership for South Carolina income tax purposes must be treated as a single entity and as a partnership,

(ii)   any corporation or other association which properly files its South Carolina income tax returns as a corporation for South Carolina tax purposes must be treated as a single entity and as a corporation, and

(iii)   any limited liability companies must be treated as a single entity.

(b)(i)   The members of the same controlled group of corporations can qualify for the fee if the combined investment in the county by the members meets the minimum investment requirements. The county and the members who are part of the inducement agreement may agree that any investments by other members of the controlled group within the time periods provided in subsections (C)(1) and (C)(2) qualify for the payment whether or not the member was part of the inducement agreement. However, in order to qualify for the fee, the other members of the controlled group must be specifically approved by the county and must agree to be bound by agreements with the county relating to the fee, but the controlled group members need not be bound by agreements, or portions of agreements, to the extent the agreements do not affect the county. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (B)(2), the investments under this subsection (B)(4)(b) must be within the same county or industrial park. Any controlled group member which is claiming the fee shall invest at least five million dollars in the county or industrial park.

(ii)   The department must be notified in writing of all members which have investments subject to the fee before or within ninety days after the end of the calendar year during which the project or phase of the project was first placed in service. The department may extend this period upon written request. Failure to meet this notice requirement does not adversely affect the fee, but a penalty may be assessed by the department for late notification in the amount of ten thousand dollars a month or portion of a month but not to exceed fifty thousand dollars. Members of the controlled group shall provide the information considered necessary by the department to ensure that the investors are part of a controlled group.

(iii)   If at any time the controlled group, or any former member which has left the controlled group no longer has the minimum five million dollars of investment, without regard to depreciation, that group or former member no longer holding the minimum amount of investment as provided in subsection (B)(3), without regard to depreciation, no longer qualifies for the fee.

(iv)   For purposes of this section, 'controlled group' or 'controlled group of corporations' has the meaning provided under Section 1563(a) of the Internal Revenue Code as defined in Chapter 7 of Title 12 as of the date of the execution of the inducement agreement without regard to amendments or replacements thereof, and without regard to subsection (b) of Section 1563.

(5)(a)   Before undertaking a project, the county council or county councils shall find:

(i)   that the project is anticipated to benefit the general public welfare of the locality by providing services, employment, recreation or other public benefits not otherwise provided locally;

(ii)   that the project gives rise to no pecuniary liability of the county or incorporated municipality or a charge against its general credit or taxing power; and

(iii)   unless the terms of an agreement with respect to a project provides that the industry shall maintain the project and carry all proper insurance with respect thereto, the estimated cost of maintaining the project in good repair and keeping it properly insured must be included in the lease payment.

The determinations and findings of the county council or county councils required to be made above must be set forth in the proceedings under which the ordinance is enacted.

(b)   The Board of Economic Advisors shall determine that the purposes to be accomplished by the project are proper governmental and public purposes and that the inducement of the location or expansion of projects within the State is of paramount importance and that the benefits of the project are greater than the costs.

(6)   Every financing agreement with respect to a project shall contain an agreement obligating the industry to effect the completion of the project, and obligating the industry to pay an amount under the terms of a lease agreement, which must be sufficient to build up and maintain any reserve considered by the county council or county councils to be advisable in connection with the agreement.

(C)(1)   From the end of the property tax year in which the investor and the county execute an inducement agreement, the investor has five years in which to enter into an initial lease agreement with the county.

(2)   From the end of the property tax year in which the investor and the county execute the initial lease agreement, the investor has five years in which to complete its investment for purposes of qualifying for this section. If the investor does not anticipate completing the project within five years, the investor may apply to the county before the end of the five-year period for an extension of time to complete the project. If the county agrees to grant the extension, the county must do so in writing and a copy must be delivered to the department within thirty days of the date the extension was granted. The extension may not exceed two years in which to complete the project. There is no extension allowed for the five-year period in which to meet the minimum level of investment. If the minimum level of investment is not met within five years, all property under the lease agreement or agreements reverts retroactively to the payments required by Section 4-12-20. The difference between the fee actually paid by the investor and the payment which is due under Section 4-12-20 is subject to interest as provided in Section 12-43-305. Any property placed in service after the five-year period, or seven years in the case of a project which has received an extension, is not part of the fee agreement under subsection (D)(2) and is subject to the payments required by Section 4-12-20 if the county has title to the property, or to property taxes as provided in Chapter 37 of Title 12 if the investor has title to the property.

(3)   The annual fee provided by subsection (D)(2) is available for no more than twenty years. For projects which are completed and placed in service during more than one year, each year's investment may be subject to the fee in subsection (D)(2) for twenty years to a maximum total of twenty-seven years for the fee for a single project which has been granted an extension.

(D)   The inducement agreement must provide for fee payments, to the extent applicable, as follows:

(1)(a)   Any property, title to which is transferred to the county before being placed in service, is subject to an annual fee payment as provided in Section 4-12-20.

(b)   Any undeveloped land, title to which is transferred to the county, before being developed and placed in service, is subject to an annual fee payment as provided in Section 4-12-20. The time during which fee payments are made under Section 4-12-20 is not considered part of the maximum periods provided in subsections (C)(2) and (C)(3), and no lease is considered an 'initial lease agreement' for purposes of this section until the first day of the calendar year for which a fee payment is due under subsection (D)(2) in connection with the lease.

(2)   After property qualifying under subsection (B) is placed in service, an annual fee payment determined in accordance with one of the following is due:

(a)   an annual payment in an amount not less than the property taxes that would be due on the project if it were taxable, but using an assessment ratio of not less than six percent, and a fixed millage rate as provided in subsection (G), and a fair market value estimate determined by the department as follows:

(i)   for real property, using the original income tax basis for South Carolina income tax purposes without regard to depreciation, but if real property is constructed for the fee or is purchased in an arm's length transaction, fair market value is deemed to equal the original income tax basis; otherwise, the department shall determine fair market value by appraisal; and

(ii)   for personal property, using the original tax basis for South Carolina income tax purposes less depreciation allowable for property tax purposes, except that the investor is not entitled to any extraordinary obsolescence.

(b)   an annual payment as provided in subsection (D)(2)(a), except that every fifth year the applicable millage rate is allowed to increase or decrease in step with the average actual millage rate applicable in the district where the project is located based on the preceding five-year period.

(3)   At the conclusion of the payments determined pursuant to items (1) and (2) of this subsection, an annual payment equal to the taxes due on the project as if it were taxable. When the property is no longer subject to the fee under subsection (D)(2), the fee or property taxes must be assessed:

(a)   with respect to real property, based on the fair market value as of the latest reassessment date for similar taxable property; and

(b) with respect to personal property, based on the then depreciated value applicable to such property under the fee, and thereafter continuing with the South Carolina property tax depreciation schedule.

(E)   Calculations pursuant to subsection (D)(2) must be made on the basis that the property, if taxable, is allowed all applicable property tax exemptions except the exemption allowed under Section 3(g) of Article X of the Constitution of this State and the exemption allowed pursuant to Section 12-37-220(B)(32) and (34).

(F)(1)   If an investor disposes of property subject to the fee, the fee must be reduced by the amount of the fee applicable to that property.

(2)   Property is disposed of only when it is scrapped or sold in accordance with the lease agreement.

(G)(1)   The county and the investor may enter into an agreement to establish the millage rate, a millage rate agreement, for purposes of calculating payments under subsection (D)(2)(a) and the first five years under subsection (D)(2)(b). This millage rate agreement must be executed on the date of the inducement agreement or any time thereafter up to and including the date of the initial lease agreement. This millage rate agreement may be a separate agreement or may be made a part of either the inducement agreement or the initial lease agreement.

(2)   The millage rate cannot be lower than the cumulative property tax millage rate legally levied by or on behalf of all taxing entities within which the subject property is to be located which is the cumulative rate applicable on the thirtieth day of June preceding the calendar year in which the millage rate agreement is executed. If no millage rate agreement is executed before the date of the initial lease agreement, the millage rate is deemed to be the cumulative property tax millage rate applicable on the thirtieth day of June preceding the calendar year in which the initial lease agreement is executed by the parties.

(H)(1)   Upon agreement of the parties, and except as provided in subsection (H)(2), an inducement agreement, a millage rate agreement, or both, may be amended or terminated and replaced with regard to all matters, but no such amendment or termination and replacement may take place after the initial lease agreement date.

(2)   No amendment or replacement of an inducement agreement or millage rate agreement may be used to change the millage rate under any such agreement.

(I)   Investment expenditures made or incurred by any investor in connection with a project, or relevant phase of a project in connection with a project completed and placed in service in more than one year, qualifies as expenditures subject to the fee in subsection (D)(2), so long as these expenditures are made:

(1)   after the county takes action reflecting or identifying the project or proposed project or investment including, but not limited to, the adoption of an inducement or similar resolution by county council; and

(2)   before the end of the applicable five- or seven-year period referenced in subsection (C)(2) and (C)(3). An inducement agreement must be executed within two years after the date on which the county takes action reflecting or identifying the project or proposed project or investment including, but not limited to, the adoption of an inducement or similar resolution by county council; otherwise, only investment expenditures made or incurred by any investor after the date of the inducement agreement in connection with a project qualifies as expenditures subject to the fee in subsection (D)(2).

(J)(1)   Property which has been previously subject to property taxes in South Carolina does not qualify for the fee except as provided in this subsection:

(a)   land, excluding improvements on the land, on which a new project is to be located may qualify for the fee even if it has previously been subject to South Carolina property taxes;

(b)   property which has been subject to South Carolina property taxes, but which has never been placed in service in South Carolina, may qualify for the fee.

(2)   Repairs, alterations, or modifications to real or personal property which are not subject to a fee are not eligible for a fee, even if they are capitalized expenditures, except for modifications to existing real property improvements which constitute an expansion of the improvements.

(K)(1)   For a project not located in an industrial development park as defined in Section 4-1-170, distribution of the fee-in-lieu of taxes on the project must be made in the same manner and proportion that the millage levied for school and other purposes would be distributed if the property were taxable. For this purpose, the relative proportions must be calculated based on the following procedure: holding constant the millage rate set in subsection (G) and using all tax abatements automatically granted for taxable property, a full schedule of the property taxes that would otherwise have been distributed to each millage levying entity in the county must be prepared for the life of the agreement, up to twenty years maximum. The total taxes for each millage levying entity as a percentage of the total taxes for all such entities determines each entity's relative shares of each year's fee payment for all subsequent years of the agreement.

(2)   For a project located in an industrial development park as defined in Section 4-1-170, distribution of the fee-in-lieu of taxes on the project must be made in the manner provided for by the agreement establishing the industrial development park.

(L)   Projects on which a fee-in-lieu of taxes is paid pursuant to this section are considered taxable property at the level of the negotiated payments for purposes of bonded indebtedness pursuant to Sections 14 and 15 of Article X of the Constitution of this State, and for purposes of computing the index of taxpaying ability pursuant to Section 59-20-20(3). However, for a project located in an industrial development park as defined in Section 4-1-170, projects are considered taxable property in the manner provided in Section 4-1-170 for purposes of bonded indebtedness pursuant to Sections 14 and 15 of Article X of the Constitution of this State, and for purposes of computing the index of taxpaying ability pursuant to Section 59-20-20(3). However, the computation of bonded indebtedness limitation is subject to the requirements of Section 4-29-68(E).

(M)   An entity subject to the fee may enter into any lending, financing, security or similar arrangement, with any financing entity, concerning all or part of a project, provided that the income tax ownership of the property which is subject to the fee payment under subsection (D)(2) is held, by the time the fee payments relating to such property begin under subsection (D)(2), by the entity subject to the fee.

(N)   An entire fee interest may be transferred to another entity which is qualified to enter into a fee agreement under subsection (B)(4)(a). A fee interest is an inducement agreement, millage rate agreement, lease agreement, and the entity's entire property interest in the project subject to the fee. Equity interests in a partnership, corporation, association, or limited liability company which properly files its South Carolina income tax returns as a partnership or corporation and which has an interest in an inducement agreement, millage rate agreement, and lease agreement, such equity interests collectively and individually referred to as an 'entity interest' may be transferred by any entity to any entity, if the entity whose entity interest is being transferred holds at least a five-million-dollar investment based on income tax basis without regard to depreciation in the project as of the time of the transfer.

(2)   All transfers of fee interests or entity interests authorized under subsection (N) must meet the following requirements:

(a)   The county must approve the transfer within six months before the transfer.

(b)   The department must receive notification in writing of the identity of each transferee and other information required by the department within thirty days after the transfer becomes effective. The department may extend the thirty-day period upon written request. Failure to meet this notice requirement does not adversely affect the fee, but a penalty may be assessed by the department for late notification for up to ten thousand dollars a month or portion of a month, with the total penalty not to exceed fifty thousand dollars.

(c)   No election under Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, Sections 338 or 754 may be made with respect to the transfer.

(d)   Each transferee must agree to be bound by the applicable agreements constituting the fee arrangement.

(e)   Any transfer must be for fair market value or result in a carryover basis for income tax purposes. If for income tax purposes, the property begins a new depreciable life for the asset, the property also begins a new depreciable life for purposes of computing the fee. In no event is the time period for receiving the fee extended.

(O)   Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, if at any time following the period provided in subsection (C)(2), the investment based on income tax basis without regard to depreciation falls below the five- million-dollar minimum investment to which the fee relates, the fee provided in subsection (D)(2) is no longer available and the investor is required to make the payments which are due under Section 4-12-20 for the remainder of the lease period.

(P)   The minimum amount of investment provided in subsection (B)(3) of this section may not be reduced except by a special vote which, for purposes of this section, means an affirmative vote in each branch of the General Assembly by two-thirds of the members present and voting, but not less than three-fifths of the total membership in each branch.

(Q)(1)   The investor shall file the returns, contracts, and other information which may be required by the department.

(2)   Fee payments and returns showing investments are due at the same time as property tax payments and property tax returns would be due if the property were owned by the party obligated to make the fee payments and file the returns.

(3)   Failure to make a timely fee payment and file required returns shall result in penalties being assessed as if the payment or return were a property tax payment or return.

(4)   The department may issue the rulings and promulgate regulations it determines necessary or appropriate to carry out the purpose of this section.

(5)   The provisions of Chapters 4 and 54 of Title 12 applicable to property taxes shall apply to this section; and for purposes of such application, the fee is considered a property tax. Sections 12-54-80 and 12-54-155 do not apply to this section.

(6)   If the entity subject to the fee fails to make the fee lease payments as provided by the agreements between the entity and the county, upon ninety days' notice, the county may terminate the fee and lease agreement and sell the property to which the county has title free from any claim by the entity.

(R)   All references in this section to taxes must be considered to mean South Carolina taxes unless otherwise expressly stated.

Section 4-12-40.   Projects with respect to which a lease agreement has been entered into before the effective date of this chapter are required to use the provisions of Section 4-29-67. Projects with respect to which a lease agreement is entered into after December 31, 1995, are required to use the provisions contained in this chapter. However, those projects in which the total investment exceeds forty-five million dollars within the time provided in subsection (C)(2) have the option of using the provisions contained in Section 4-29-67 or 4-12-30.

Section 4-12-50.   If any provision of this chapter or its application to any circumstance is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid for any reason, this holding does not affect other provisions or applications of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end, the provisions of this chapter are severable."

B. Subsections (A), (B), and (C) of Section 4-29-68 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 123 of 1993, are further amended to read:

"(A)   A county or municipality or special purpose district that receives and retains revenues from a payment in lieu of taxes pursuant to Section 4-29-60, or Section 4-29-67, Section 4-12-20, or Section 4-12-30 may issue special source revenue bonds secured by and payable from all or a part of such revenues, subject to the following terms and conditions:

(1)   The issuance of bonds is authorized by a duly adopted ordinance of the governing body of the issuer or, if the issuer is a special purpose district, an ordinance of the county council or councils in the county or counties in which the special purpose district is located, and a resolution of the governing body of the issuer, after a public hearing is held at least fifteen days after notice of the hearing is published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county or municipality or special purpose district.

(2)   The bonds are issued solely for the purpose of paying the cost of designing, acquiring, constructing, improving, or expanding the infrastructure serving the issuer in order to enhance the economic development of the issuer and costs of issuance of the bonds. For purposes of this section, infrastructure includes improved and unimproved real property. Bonds issued pursuant to this section to finance the acquisition of real or personal property may be additionally secured by a mortgage of that real or personal property.

(3)   The bonds may include amounts for capitalized interest for a period not to extend beyond the later of (a) the date that is three years from the date of issuance of the bonds and (b) the first date on which any ad valorem taxes (including, but not limited to, county or school district taxes) would have been payable on the property (other than unimproved real property) which is the subject of the payment in lieu of taxes.

(4)   The issuer may use proceeds of the bonds (including by establishment of a reserve fund to be used) (a) directly for infrastructure owned or controlled by the issuer or (b) to make loans or grants to, or to participate in joint undertakings with, other agencies or political subdivisions of the State that own or control the infrastructure referred to in item (2) of this subsection.

(5)   The bonds are, and must state on their face that they are, (a) payable solely from all or a specifically described part of the payments in lieu of taxes received and retained by the issuer under Section 4-29-60, Section 4-29-67, Section 4-12-20, Section 4-12-30, or Section 13 of Article VIII of the Constitution of this State, (b) not secured by, or in any way entitled to, a pledge of the full faith, credit, or taxing power of the issuer, (c) not an indebtedness of the issuer within the meaning of any state constitutional provision or statutory limitation but are payable solely from a special source that does not include revenues from any tax or license, and (d) not a pecuniary liability of the issuer or a charge against the issuer's general credit or taxing power.

(6)   The ordinance authorizing the issuance of the bonds shall specifically describe the portion of the payments in lieu of taxes received and retained by the issuer from which the bonds are payable and by which the bonds are secured.

(7)   The bonds may be executed and delivered at any time as a single issue or from time to time as several issues, be in the form and denominations, be of the tenor, be payable in the installments and at the time or times not to exceed the time over which payments in lieu of taxes are scheduled to be received, be subject to the terms of redemption, be payable at the place or places, bear interest at the rate or rates which is payable at the place or places, and contain provisions not inconsistent with this section, all of which must be provided in the ordinance authorizing the bonds.

(8)   The bonds may be sold at public or private sale at the prices and in the manner and from time to time as may be determined by the governing board to be most advantageous, and the governing board may pay, as a part of the costs described in item (2) of this subsection, and out of the bond proceeds, all expenses, premiums, commissions, and expenses which the governing board considers necessary or advantageous in connection with the authorization, sale, and issuance of the bonds.

(9)   The ordinance may provide for the issuance, in the future, of further bonds on a parity with those initially issued, but the proceedings may preclude the issuance of bonds or any obligations of any sort secured by a lien prior to the lien of the bond or bonds afterward issued on a parity with the bonds.

(10)   Pending the issuance of bonds, bond anticipation notes may be issued, and to the end that a vehicle be provided therefor, the provisions of Section 11-17-10 to Section 11-17-110, as now or hereafter amended, are applicable to the bond anticipatory borrowing.

(11)   The ordinance authorizing the issuance of the bonds may contain agreements and provisions customarily contained in the instruments securing revenue or special source bonds as the governing board considers advisable, but the issuer does not have the power to obligate itself to impose or maintain any particular level of tax rates.

(B)   A county or municipality or special purpose district that receives and retains revenues from a payment in lieu of taxes pursuant to Section 4-29-60, or Section 4-29-67, Section 4-12-20, or Section 4-12-30 may pledge the revenues as additional security for general obligation debt or revenue debt of the issuer if the general obligation debt or revenue debt is issued in accordance with items (1) and (2) of this subsection.

(C)   A county or municipality or special purpose district that receives and retains revenues from a payment in lieu of taxes pursuant to Section 4-29-60, or Section 4-29-67, Section 4-12-20, or Section 4-12-30 may pledge the revenues as additional security for general obligation debt or revenue debt of other agencies or political subdivisions of the State referred to in item (4)(b) of this subsection if the pledge is authorized by a duly-adopted ordinance of the governing body of the county or municipality or special purpose district after a public hearing is held at least fifteen days after notice of the hearing is published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county or municipality or special purpose district, and if the general obligation debt or revenue debt to which the revenues received from a payment in lieu of taxes are pledged is issued solely for the purpose of paying the cost of designing, acquiring, constructing, improving, or expanding the infrastructure serving the county or municipality or special purpose district in order to enhance the economic development of the county or municipality or special purpose district and costs of issuance of the bonds."

C.   Section 12-7-1220(J)(1) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 164 of 1993, is amended to read:

"(1)   If a corporation qualifies to use the fee in lieu of property taxes provided in Section Sections 4-29-67 or 4-12-30 and fails to qualify for a credit under this section solely because it is an S corporation, then each of the shareholders of the S corporation qualifies for a nonrefundable credit against taxes imposed pursuant to Section 12-7-210."

D. This section is effective for taxable years beginning after 1995./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE explained the amendment.

Senator THOMAS objected to further consideration of the Bill.

RECOMMITTED

H. 3416 -- Reps. L. Whipper, Harrell, S. Whipper, Witherspoon, Shissias, Lloyd, Breeland, Dantzler, Hutson and Keyserling: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-197 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE REPORTING OF CERTAIN FINANCIAL INFORMATION BY EACH MEDICAL SCHOOL RECEIVING AN APPROPRIATION FROM THE STATE.

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

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator PASSAILAIGUE, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Education.

AMENDMENT PROPOSED, CARRIED OVER

H. 4008 -- Reps. Govan, Cave, Cobb-Hunter, Stuart, Rhoad and Sharpe: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 346 OF 1975, RELATING TO THE TRICOUNTY COMMISSION ON ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE, SO AS TO REVISE THE COMPOSITION OF THE COMMISSION; TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE CHAIRMANSHIP MUST ROTATE; TO ADD ADDITIONAL POWERS AND DUTIES; TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF COPIES OF THE COMMISSION AUDIT REPORT; AND TO PROVIDE THAT ALL MEMBERS CURRENTLY SERVING ON THE COMMISSION CONTINUE TO SERVE UNTIL THE EXPIRATION OF THEIR CURRENT TERMS.

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

Senator GREG SMITH proposed the following amendment (4008R001.GS):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 3, after line 31 by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/SECTION ____. Chapter 5, Title 61 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 61-5-185.   (A)   Permits authorized by Section 61-5-180 may be issued to bona fide nonprofit organizations and businesses established and licensed under Section 61-5-50, upon application and payment of the filing and permit fees, as authorized in subsection (B).

(B)   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an organization or business may qualify for the issuance of such permits if:

(1)   the applicant is an organization or business that is located east of the intracoastal waterway in an area of the county that adjoins a county that has passed a referendum authorizing the issuance of permits pursuant to Section 61-5-180 and has annual accommodations tax collections in excess of six million dollars;

(2)   the annual accommodation tax collections in the county where the applicant is located exceeds five hundred thousand dollars; and

(3)   a majority of the qualified electors of the area vote in a referendum in favor of the issuance of the permits. The petition must clearly identify the area of the county for which the referendum is sought. The county election commission shall conduct a referendum upon petition of at least ten percent but not more than twenty-five hundred qualified electors of the area for which the authorization to issue permits is sought. The county election commission shall review and certify that the requisite number of signatures have been obtained within a reasonable period of time after receipt not to exceed thirty days and the referendum must be held not less than thirty nor more than forty days after such certification. The election commission shall cause a notice to be published in a newspaper circulated in the area of the county for which authorization to issue a permit is sought at least seven days before the referendum. The state election laws shall apply to the referendum mutatis mutandis. The election commission shall publish the results of the referendum and certify them to the Department of Revenue. The question on the ballot shall read substantially as follows:

'Shall the Department of Revenue be authorized to issue temporary permits in the (portion of the unincorporated area of the county) for a period not to exceed twenty-four hours to allow the possession, sale, and consumption of alcoholic liquors in sealed containers of two ounces or less to bona fide nonprofit organizations and business establishments otherwise authorized to be licensed for sales?'

A referendum for this purpose for a given county area may not be held more often than once in forty-eight months. However, nothing in this section shall be construed to affect a referendum held pursuant to Section 61-5-180.

The expenses of any such referendum must be paid by the county or municipality conducting the referendum."/

Amend title to conform.

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

CARRIED OVER

S. 800 -- Senator Wilson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-260, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AMENDMENTS TO CHARTERS FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION PROHIBITING THE CREATION OF NEW CLASSES OF STOCK; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-410, RELATING TO MEMBERS, STOCKHOLDERS, AND BONDHOLDERS OF THE CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE AUTHORIZED INVESTORS AND INVESTMENT LIMITS; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-450, RELATING TO VOTING BY STOCKHOLDERS AND MEMBERS OF THE CORPORATION, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS TO MAKE THEM CONSISTENT AND COMPATIBLE WITH HAVING NEW CLASSES OF STOCK; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-460, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOANS TO THE CORPORATION, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS FOR LOAN LIMITS AND INVESTMENT LIMITS; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-630, RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTION; AND TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 33-37-470 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF NEW CLASSES OF STOCK AND ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 33 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR APPLICATION OF THE BUSINESS CORPORATIONS ACT.

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

H. 3364 -- Reps. Tucker, P. Harris, McAbee and Carnell: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 21 IN TITLE 25, RELATING TO MILITARY, CIVIL DEFENSE, AND VETERANS' AFFAIRS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE VETERANS' TRUST FUND OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND PROVIDE FOR ITS POWERS, DUTIES, AND GOVERNANCE; AND TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 12-7-2417 SO AS TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATION ON STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX FORMS ENABLING A TAXPAYER TO MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE VETERANS' TRUST FUND OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

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

S. 827 -- Senator Waldrep: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME THE INTERSECTION OF HIGHWAY 76 AND INTERSTATE 85 IN ANDERSON COUNTY AS "CHARLANTA".

On motion of Senator PEELER, the Resolution was carried over.

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

MADE SPECIAL ORDER

H. 3651 -- Rep. H. Brown: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 11-11-330 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE STATE PROPERTY TAX CREDIT FUND AND REQUIRE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS TO THE FUND; TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-251 SO AS TO ALLOW A HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FROM PROPERTY TAXES OTHER THAN THOSE LEVIED FOR BONDED INDEBTEDNESS EQUAL TO TWENTY-EIGHT THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS OF FAIR MARKET VALUE ESCALATING, DEPENDING ON REVENUES IN THE STATE PROPERTY TAX CREDIT FUND TO A COMPLETE EXEMPTION FROM ALL TAXES EXCEPT THOSE LEVIED FOR BONDED INDEBTEDNESS; TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 12-43-217 SO AS TO REQUIRE TRIENNIAL REASSESSMENT; TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTIONS 4-9-142, 5-21-70, 6-1-75, AND 59-73-35 SO AS TO IMPOSE SPENDING LIMITS ON COUNTIES, MUNICIPALITIES, AND SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS AND IMPOSE AN AD VALOREM TAX REVENUE LIMITATION ON SCHOOL DISTRICTS; TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 12-43-350 SO AS TO PROVIDE A STANDARDIZED TAX BILL; AND TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT BUDGETING.

On behalf of the Chairmen's Committee, Senator LEATHERMAN moved that the Bill be made a Special Order.

The Bill was made a Special Order in the Chairmen's Committee slot.

RECALLED

H. 3446 -- Rep. Sharpe: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 46-45-70 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE LOCATION OF AGRICULTURAL FACILITIES AND AGRICULTURAL WASTE DISPOSAL AREAS; TO AMEND SECTION 46-45-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH AGRICULTURAL FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS ARE NOT NUISANCES, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE FACILITY OR OPERATION MUST BE IN OPERATION FOR ONE YEAR OR MORE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 46-45-60, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOCAL ORDINANCES PERTAINING TO AGRICULTURAL FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH RELATED PERMITS MUST NOT BE SUSPENDED, DENIED, OR REVOKED.

Senator LEATHERMAN moved to recall the Bill from the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Point of Order

Senator MATTHEWS raised a Point of Order that inasmuch as the Bill was received by the Senate after the May first deadline, would the motion be subject to a two-thirds vote under the provisions of Rule 48.

The ACTING PRESIDENT stated that the motion to recall was subject to a majority vote and that for the provisions of Rule 48 to apply, the Bill needed to be under consideration when the Point of Order was raised.

A roll call vote was ordered.

Parliamentary Inquiry

Senator MATTHEWS made a Parliamentary Inquiry as to whether or not the motion to recall was a nondebatable motion.

The ACTING PRESIDENT stated that the motion was debatable; however, a roll call vote had been ordered.

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

Ayes 24; Nays 12

AYES

Alexander                 Bryan                     Courson
Courtney                  Giese                     Holland
Land                      Lander                    Leatherman
Martin                    McConnell                 McGill
Mescher                   O'Dell                    Passailaigue
Peeler                    Reese                     Rose
Saleeby                   Setzler                   Stilwell
Thomas                    Williams                  Wilson

TOTAL--24

NAYS

Cork                      Ford                      Glover
Gregory                   Hayes                     Jackson
Matthews                  Patterson                 Richter
Short                     Smith, G.                 Washington

TOTAL--12

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources and placed on the Calendar.

Statement by Senator RICHTER

I voted not to recall H. 3446 because the Chairman of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee was out of the Senate Chamber at the time of the vote. He was presiding over a public hearing on another matter. I believe he should have been given the courtesy of being present for the vote.

PRESIDENT PRESIDES

At 12:20 P.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.

Point of Order

Senator MATTHEWS raised a Point of Order under Rule 48 that consideration of the Bill was out of order as the Bill was not received by the Senate prior to May first.

The PRESIDENT stated that the Point of Order was not valid at the present time inasmuch as the Bill, although recalled, was not before the body for consideration and that, when the Bill was on the Calendar and available for consideration, that would be the proper time to raise the Point of Order.

MOTION ADOPTED

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

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE ADJOURNED DEBATES.

CARRIED OVER

H. 4138 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 11-11-145 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUING AUTHORITY TO PAY THE EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT WHEN A FISCAL YEAR BEGINS WITHOUT A GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT FOR THE YEAR IN EFFECT.

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

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

AMENDED, AMENDMENT PROPOSED
DEBATE INTERRUPTED

H. 3901 -- Reps. Harrell, Fleming, Cobb-Hunter, Seithel, A. Young, Limbaugh, Wilkins, Wofford, Hallman, H. Brown, Cain, Cotty, Martin, D. Smith, Fulmer, L. Whipper, Shissias, Quinn, McCraw, Knotts, Stuart, Harrison, Sheheen, Huff, Klauber, Beatty, Limehouse, Whatley, Harwell, Hodges, J. Young, Govan, Herdklotz, Jennings, Richardson, Hutson, Delleney and McElveen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-51-90, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE REDEMPTION OF REAL PROPERTY SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE INTEREST RATE FROM EIGHT TO TWELVE PERCENT IN THE LAST SIX MONTHS OF THE REDEMPTION PERIOD FOR ALL REAL PROPERTY NOT ASSESSED AS OWNER-OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY.

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

Amendment No. 1

Senator LEATHERMAN proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (JIC\6033HTC.95), which was adopted:

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

/SECTION   __.   A.   The State Election Commission shall conduct a statewide referendum on November 7, 1995, on the question of raising the sales tax in order to provide property tax relief and phasing out the sales tax on food. The state election laws apply to this referendum, mutatis mutandis. The commission shall canvass the results of the referendum and certify the results to the director of the Department of Revenue and Taxation and the Code Commissioner. The referendum question must read substantially as follows:

"Do you favor raising the statewide sales, use, and casual excise tax rate from five to six percent, in order to exempt food from the sales tax and to grant fifty thousand dollars of the fair market value of each owner-occupied residential property an exemption from all property taxes levied for operating purposes except those levied pursuant to referendum and those levied by special purpose or public service districts and county special tax districts?

_         Yes

_         No

Those voting in favor of the question shall deposit a ballot with a check or cross mark in the square after the word 'Yes', and those voting against the question shall deposit a ballot with a check or cross mark in the square after the word 'No'."

B.   Chapter 36, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Article 11
Additional Sales, Use, and
Casual Excise Tax

Section 12-36-1110.   An additional sales, use, and casual excise tax equal to one percent is imposed on amounts taxable pursuant to this chapter. Revenue of the tax imposed pursuant to this article must be credited to the Property Tax Relief Fund in the State Treasury, a fund separate and distinct from the general fund of the State.

Section 12-36-1120.   The revenues in the Property Tax Relief Fund must be distributed quarterly beginning October first of each year by the Comptroller General to reimburse property taxing jurisdictions a sum equal to that not collected in the jurisdiction for property taxes because of Section 12-37-253. If insufficient revenues are available in the Property Tax Relief Fund to pay the required reimbursements, the Comptroller General shall pay the difference from the general fund of the State. County treasurers and municipal governing bodies where appropriate shall file quarterly reports of estimated revenue losses with the Comptroller General in the manner and at the time the Comptroller General directs. After making any changes necessary to ensure accuracy, the Comptroller General shall make reimbursements based on these estimates. The final accounting for the fiscal year must be filed in the manner provided for homestead exemption reimbursements in Section 12-37-270, mutatis mutandis."

C.   Section 12-36-940 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 12-36-940.   Every retailer may add to the sales price:

(1)   no amount on sales of ten cents or less;

(2)   one cent on sales of eleven cents and over, but not in excess of twenty cents;

(3)   two cents on sales of twenty-one cents and over, but not in excess of forty cents;

(4)   three cents on sales of forty-one cents and over, but not in excess of sixty cents;

(5)   four cents on sales of sixty-one cents and over, but not in excess of eighty cents;

(6)   five cents on sales of eighty-one cents and over, but not in excess of one dollar;

(7)   one cent additional for each twenty cents or major fraction thereon in excess of one dollar.

The inability, impracticability, refusal, or failure to add these amounts to the sales price and collect from the purchaser does not relieve the taxpayer from the tax levied by this article.

A retailer may add the amount of the tax to the sales price and the department shall prescribe tables providing the amount to be added to the sales price consistent with the total rate of the tax."

D.   (1)   The gross proceeds of sales of tangible personal property delivered after December 31, 1995, in this State, either under the terms of a construction contract executed before January 1, 1996, or a written bid submitted before January 1, 1996, culminating in a construction contract entered into before or after January 1, 1996, are exempt from the tax provided in Section 12-36-1110 of the 1976 Code if a verified copy of the contract is filed with the South Carolina Department of Revenue and Taxation before July 1, 1996.

(2)   Notwithstanding the date of general imposition of the tax imposed pursuant to Section 12-36-1110 of the 1976 Code, with respect to services that are regularly billed on a monthly basis, the tax is imposed beginning on the first day of the billing period beginning on or after January 1, 1996.

E.   Section 11-11-140(D) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(D)   Appropriations from surplus may not be made before the first meeting of the General Assembly following the Comptroller General's closing of the books on the fiscal year in which the surplus occurred and may be appropriated only for nonrecurring purposes. The provisions of this subsection do not apply to appropriations to cover midyear shortfalls in the Property Tax Relief Fund as established pursuant to Article 11, Chapter 36 of Title 12."

F.   (1)   Article 3, Chapter 37, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-37-253.   In addition to any other homestead exemption allowed by law, fifty thousand dollars of the fair market value of every homestead qualifying for the assessment ratio provided pursuant to Section 12-43-220(c) is exempt from all ad valorem taxes except ad valorem taxes levied as follows:

(1)   for debt service and for payments pursuant to lease-purchase agreements;

(2)   by special purpose or public service districts;

(3)   by county special tax districts;

(4)   any ad valorem taxes levied pursuant to a referendum in which a majority of the qualified electors of the jurisdiction voting in the referendum voted in favor of levying the taxes."

(2)   Subject to Subsection A of this section, Section 12-37-253 of the 1976 Code, as added by this section, is effective for property tax years beginning after 1995.

G.   (1)   Section 12-36-2120 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding an appropriately numbered item at the end to read:

"( )   Effective July 1, 1998, food items eligible for purchase with United States Department of Agriculture food coupons, not including restaurant meals."

(2)   Notwithstanding the rates of tax imposed pursuant to Chapter 36, Title 12 of the 1976 Code, the rate of tax imposed pursuant to that chapter on the gross proceeds of sales, or the sale price of food items eligible for purchase with United States Department of Agriculture food coupons, not including restaurant meals, is two percent for sales or consumption in fiscal year 1996-97, and one percent for such sales or consumption in fiscal year 1997-98. Eighty percent of the revenues from sales taxes imposed by this subsection must be credited to the general fund of this State and the remainder must be credited to the Education Improvement Act Fund.

H.   Subsection A of this section takes effect upon approval by the Governor. The remaining subsections of this section take effect January 1, 1996, or as otherwise stated, but only upon the certification of the State Election Commission to the Code Commissioner and the Department of Revenue and Taxation of a majority "yes" vote in the referendum provided by this section./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend totals and title to conform.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the amendment.

Senator WILSON argued contra to the adoption of the amendment.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE spoke on the amendment.

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

Ayes 21; Nays 20

AYES

Bryan                     Cork                      Ford
Glover                    Holland                   Jackson
Land                      Lander                    Leatherman
Martin                    Matthews                  McGill
Moore                     Patterson                 Reese
Saleeby                   Short                     Smith, J.V.
Thomas                    Washington                Williams

TOTAL--21

NAYS

Alexander                 Courson                   Courtney
Elliott                   Giese                     Gregory
Hayes                     McConnell                 Mescher
O'Dell                    Passailaigue              Peeler
Rankin                    Richter                   Rose
Russell                   Setzler                   Smith, G.
Stilwell                  Wilson                    

TOTAL--20

The amendment was adopted.

Amendment No. 2

Senator LEATHERMAN proposed the following Amendment No. 2 (BBM\10333HTC.95), which was adopted:

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

/SECTION   __.   A.   Section 12-43-250 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 12-43-250.   The Commission shall make sales ratio studies in all counties of the State and when, in the judgment of the Commission, a county needs to reassess or remap property, the Commission shall make application to the circuit court in which the county is located for a determination of whether or not the county shall be required to commence reassessment or remapping. If the circuit court determines that the county needs reassessment or remapping, such county shall be required to commence the reassessment or remapping within thirty days of such determination. All taxable real property in a county must be appraised and equalized once every fourth year beginning with the 1997 property tax year. Upon completion of a reassessment and equalization program, property taxpayers must be notified of any resulting change in value or classification. The values determined by the program first apply for the property tax year beginning after the completion of the program and notification of taxpayers."

B.   The Department of Revenue and Taxation shall establish a schedule of initial reassessment programs for all counties in conformity with the provisions of Section 12-43-250 of the 1976 Code as amended by this section as follows:

GROUP I-Program completed in 1997 with revised values applicable beginning with the 1998 property tax year.

Allendale

Bamberg

Berkeley

Chesterfield

Darlington

Dorchester

Florence

Horry

Lancaster

Newberry

Pickens

GROUP II-Program completed in 1998 with revised values applicable beginning with the 1999 property tax year.

Barnwell

Charleston

Chester

Fairfield

Georgetown

Greenville

Lee

Lexington

Marlboro

Richland

Union

Williamsburg

York

GROUP III--Program completed in 1999 with revised values applicable beginning with the 2000 property tax year.

Abbeville

Aiken

Calhoun

Clarendon

Dillon

Greenville

Edgefield

Greenwood

Hampton

Kershaw

Union

Laurens

Marion

Oconee

Saluda

GROUP IV-Program completed in 2000 with revised values applicable beginning with the 2001 property tax year.

Anderson

Beaufort

Cherokee

Colleton

Jasper

McCormick

Orangeburg

Spartanburg

Sumter

Nothing in this subsection prohibits a county from implementing a reassessment program sooner than provided in the schedule./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Recorded Vote

Senator PASSAILAIGUE desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of Amendment No. 2.

Leave of Absence

At 1:10 P.M., Senator THOMAS requested a leave of absence until 1:45 P.M.

Amendment No. 3

Senators PASSAILAIGUE, McCONNELL and ROSE proposed the following Amendment No. 3 (3901R003.ELP):

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

/SECTION _____.   A.   Article 3, Chapter 37, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-37-224.   In addition to property tax exemptions allowed pursuant to Section 12-37-220(B), there is allowed as an exemption from ad valorem taxation an amount of the fair market value of residential real property assessed pursuant to Section 12-43-220(c) and real property and improvements thereon assessed pursuant to Section 12-43-220(e) equal to increases in fair market value resulting from reassessments occurring after the year the present owner acquired ownership. When the property is transferred, its value for purposes of ad valorem taxation is its fair market value at that time. This exemption does not extend to increases in fair market value attributable to permanent improvements made to the property. For purposes of this exemption, the acquisition of residential property assessed pursuant to Section 12-43-220(c) by a spouse by interspousal gift or by a surviving spouse from the deceased spouse by devise or operation of law is not considered a change of ownership."

B.   This section takes effect January 1, 1995, and applies with respect to increases in fair market value attributable to countywide reassessment programs implemented after 1985. No refunds must be paid for property tax years before 1995 as a result of the exemption allowed by this section./

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by striking the last SECTION and inserting:

/SECTION   _____. Except as otherwise provided in this act, this act shall take effect upon approval of the Governor./

Amend title to conform.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE argued in favor of the adoption of the amendment.

Senator BRYAN argued contra to the adoption of the amendment.

Senator McCONNELL argued in favor of the adoption of the amendment.

With Senator McCONNELL retaining the floor, Senator MOORE asked unanimous consent to make a motion that the Senate stand adjourned.

Debate was interrupted by adjournment, Senator McCONNELL retaining the floor.

ADJOURNMENT

At 1:50 P.M., on motion of Senator MOORE, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.

* * *

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