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

Thursday, February 7, 2008
(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:

In the Book of Proverbs we read:

"Keep straight the path of your feet, and all your ways will be sure."
(Proverbs 4:26)

Join me as we pray:

Glorious Lord, continue to guide the women and men of this Senate in the ways You would have them go, that their paths will always be straight and true. Bestow wisdom and courage upon each of these leaders. Fill their hearts with compassion for all of the people of this State. Enable these Senators by Your Spirit's grace to experience a singleness of purpose and to make the very best decisions as they incessantly labor together for the common good. In Your loving and gracious name we pray, O Lord.
Amen.

Point of Quorum

At 11:09 A.M., Senator PEELER made the point that a quorum was not present. It was ascertained that a quorum was not present.

Call of the Senate

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

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bryant
Campbell                  Campsen                   Ceips
Cleary                    Courson                   Cromer
Elliott                   Fair                      Ford
Gregory                   Grooms                    Hawkins
Hayes                     Hutto                     Knotts
Land                      Leatherman                Leventis
Lourie                    Malloy                    Martin
Massey                    Matthews                  McConnell
McGill                    O'Dell                    Patterson
Peeler                    Pinckney                  Rankin
Reese                     Ritchie                   Scott
Setzler                   Sheheen                   Short
Thomas                    Verdin                    Williams

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

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

Doctor of the Day

Senator FAIR introduced Dr. Woodrow W. Long, Jr. of Greenville, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator FAIR, at 11:02 A.M., Senator VAUGHN was granted an extended leave of absence from January 29, 2008, through today.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator KNOTTS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator McCONNELL rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:

S. 1080 (Word version)     Sens. ELLIOTT, CLEARY, McGILL

S. 1018 (Word version)     Sen. SHORT

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 1080 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin, Elliott, Cleary and McGill: A SENATE RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING MR. JAMES MICHAEL "JIMMY" ARAKAS FOR BEING AWARDED AN ARCHON BY THE GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1081 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING MRS. RODDEY STOUDEMIRE ON HER RETIREMENT FROM HER POSITION AS TENTH CIRCUIT COORDINATOR FOR THE GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM AND THANKING HER FOR HER TIRELESS DEVOTION TO THE CHILDREN OF ANDERSON AND OCONEE COUNTIES.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1082 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTIONS 38-72-65, 38-72-67, AND 38-72-69 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR RESCINDING AND ISSUING LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE POLICIES, AND TO REQUIRE THE LICENSING AND TRAINING OF A PRODUCER OF THESE POLICIES; TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-40, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONTAINED IN THE LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE ACT, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE "LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE", AND TO DEFINE THE TERM "QUALIFIED LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE CONTRACT" OR "FEDERALLY TAX-QUALIFIED LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE CONTRACT"; TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-60, RELATING TO THE APPROVAL OF REGULATIONS, TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLICABLE TO A LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE POLICY AND GROUP POLICY, AND ADVERTISING RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE ELEMENTS OF WHAT THESE POLICIES MAY INCLUDE AND THE CONDITIONS THAT MUST BE MET, AND ADDITIONAL ITEMS THAT MUST BE FURNISHED TO A POLICYHOLDER IN A MONTHLY REPORT; TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-70, RELATING TO THE ADOPTION OF REGULATIONS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR OF INSURANCE TO ISSUE CERTAIN REGULATIONS TO PROTECT A POLICYHOLDER IF THERE IS A SUBSTANTIAL RATE INCREASE AND ESTABLISH MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR PRODUCER EDUCATION, MARKETING PRACTICES, PENALTIES, AND REPORTING PRACTICES FOR LONG TERM CARE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-80, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION OF THIS CHAPTER, SO AS TO PROVIDE A SEVERABILITY PROVISION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

S. 1083 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-63-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AGE OF ATTENDANCE IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SO AS TO ALLOW CHILDREN WHO HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLETED AN OUT-OF-STATE OR PRIVATE KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM OR FIRST GRADE WITH A DIFFERENT AGE REQUIREMENT TO ATTEND KINDERGARTEN OR FIRST GRADE IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 1084 (Word version) -- Senator Peeler: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-1537 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT VISITATION IS SUSPENDED FOR A PARENT WHO IS ONE MONTH OR MORE IN ARREARS IN PAYING CHILD SUPPORT AND THAT VISITATION RESUMES WHEN THERE IS NO ARREARAGE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1085 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell and Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 13, TITLE 8 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO ETHICS, TO PLACE LEGISLATIVE STAFF UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE LEGISLATIVE ETHICS COMMITTEES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1086 (Word version) -- Senator Pinckney: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND VISION OF THE FOUNDERS OF THE MATHER SCHOOL OF BEAUFORT COUNTY AND TO COMMEND THE MATHER SCHOOL LOW COUNTRY ALUMNI AND ASSOCIATES FOR PRESERVING THE HISTORY OF THE SCHOOL FOR POSTERITY.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 1087 (Word version) -- Senator Pinckney: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPON THE DEATH OF JASPER COUNTY SHERIFF BENJAMIN RILEY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY, HIS MANY FRIENDS, AND HIS COMMUNITY.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 1088 (Word version) -- Senator Pinckney: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE LIFE OF FAIRY MORRIS, ONE OF TILLMAN'S CHERISHED CITIZENS, UPON THE OCCASION OF HER ONE HUNDREDTH BIRTHDAY, AND TO WISH HER MANY MORE YEARS OF PROSPERITY AND HAPPINESS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

H. 3723 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, Anthony, Bales, Clyburn, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Jefferson, Mack, Moss and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-155 SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT IN THIS STATE TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT AN EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR PROGRAM FOR EACH HIGH SCHOOL IN THE DISTRICT WHICH REQUIRES THAT SUCH A DEFIBRILLATOR IS PROVIDED ON THE GROUNDS OF EACH HIGH SCHOOL, THAT DISTRICT EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS REASONABLY EXPECTED TO USE THE DEVICE ARE TRAINED IN ITS USE, AND THAT THESE DEVICES ARE PERIODICALLY INSPECTED AND ANNUALLY MAINTAINED.

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

H. 3950 (Word version) -- Rep. Kennedy: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 97 TO TITLE 44 SO AS TO CREATE THE CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE INITIATIVE GOVERNING BOARD AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, AND DUTIES, INCLUDING MANAGING FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTING PROGRAMS TO EDUCATE THE PUBLIC AND HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS ABOUT KIDNEY DISEASE.

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

H. 3957 (Word version) -- Rep. Harvin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-39-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF THE DIABETES INITIATIVE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA AFFILIATE OF THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTHEASTERN DIVISION OF THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD.

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

H. 4630 (Word version) -- Reps. Scott and Hart: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO CREATE A NEW GANG PREVENTION STUDY COMMITTEE TO CONTINUE THE WORK OF THE INITIAL GANG PREVENTION STUDY COMMITTEE TO ASSESS AND COMBAT THE STATE'S ONGOING GANG PROBLEM BY BRINGING TOGETHER STATE AGENCIES TO COORDINATE GANG REDUCTION PLANS AND MAKE FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS ADDRESSING GANG-RELATED ACTIVITY IN THE STATE.

Senator MALLOY spoke on the Resolution.

Read the first time and, on motion of Senator MALLOY, with unanimous consent, H. 4630 was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

H. 4641 (Word version) -- Rep. Jennings: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE MARLBORO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MAINTENANCE AND ENGINEERING OFFICE BUILDING LOCATED ON SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 38, IN THE CITY OF BENNETTSVILLE, THE "WADE R. CROW MAINTENANCE AND ENGINEERING OFFICE BUILDING", AND PLACE APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS BUILDING THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "WADE R. CROW MAINTENANCE AND ENGINEERING OFFICE BUILDING".

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

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

Senator ALEXANDER from the General Committee polled out S. 104 favorable:

S. 104 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Courson, Vaughn, Knotts and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 11, TITLE 60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ARCHIVES ACT, SO AS TO ADD ARTICLE 3 CREATING THE SOUTH CAROLINA CIVIL WAR SESQUICENTENNIAL ADVISORY BOARD.

General Committee
Polled 16; Ayes 16; Nays 0; Not Voting 1

AYES

Alexander                 O'Dell                    Martin
Hawkins                   Knotts                    Ford
Short                     Sheheen                   Reese
Lourie                    Williams                  Leventis
Bryant                    Ceips                     Campbell
Massey

Total--16

NAYS

Total--0

NOT VOTING

Vaughn

Total--1

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

S. 933 (Word version) -- Senators Ceips and Leventis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO URGE THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DELEGATION TO THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO REQUEST THAT THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY STUDY PORT ROYAL SOUND AS A CANDIDATE FOR THE NATIONAL ESTUARY PROGRAM.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

S. 985 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-510, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES AUTHORIZED FOR SALE, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS AND PRIVILEGES OF AND PROCEDURES FOR A SENIOR LIFETIME LICENSE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

S. 986 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-510, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES AUTHORIZED FOR SALE, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS AND PRIVILEGES OF AND PROCEDURES FOR A DISABILITY LICENSE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator ALEXANDER from the General Committee polled out H. 4403 favorable:

H. 4403 (Word version) -- Rep. Davenport: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DESIGNATE THE SITE OF THE BOILING SPRINGS GEYSER IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY AS A STATE HISTORIC SITE.

General Committee
Polled 16; Ayes 16; Nays 0; Not Voting 1

AYES

Alexander                 O'Dell                    Martin
Hawkins                   Knotts                    Ford
Short                     Sheheen                   Reese
Lourie                    Williams                  Leventis
Bryant                    Ceips                     Campbell
Massey

Total--16

NAYS

Total--0

NOT VOTING

Vaughn

Total--1

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., February 7, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

S. 588 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Lourie, Rankin, Land, Ritchie, Cromer and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTIONS 38-71-1345, 38-71-1355, 38-71-1365, AND 38-71-1445 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS, POWERS, DUTIES, AND RESTRICTIONS OF A SMALL EMPLOYER HEALTH GROUP COOPERATIVE, AND PROVIDE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AND OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS OF THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD SHALL SUBMIT A REPORT TO THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY BY JANUARY 1, 2010, ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE HEALTH GROUP COOPERATIVE IN EXPANDING THE AVAILABILITY OF HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR SMALL EMPLOYERS; AND BY AMENDING SECTIONS 38-71-1320, 38-71-1330, 38-71-1340, AND 38-71-1350, RELATING TO SMALL EMPLOYER HEALTH INSURANCE AVAILABILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SMALL EMPLOYERS MAY FORM A COOPERATIVE FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING HEALTH INSURANCE TO THEIR EMPLOYEES, PROVIDE FOR THE DEFINITION OF "HEALTH GROUP COOPERATIVE", AND PROVIDE FOR THE GROUP SIZE FOR A HEALTH GROUP COOPERATIVE.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., February 7, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 4514 (Word version) -- Reps. Shoopman, Loftis, G.R. Smith, Cato, Bedingfield, Haskins, Hamilton, Rice, Allen, F.N. Smith, Taylor, Bannister and Leach: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 432 OF 1947, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE GREENVILLE HOSPITAL SYSTEM, ITS CREATION, BOARD, POWERS, AND DUTIES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE BOARD FROM SEVEN TO ELEVEN MEMBERS, TO REVISE THE DISTRICTS FROM WHICH THE MEMBERS MUST BE APPOINTED, TO REVISE THE NOMINATING PROCEDURES, AND TO PROVIDE TRANSITIONAL PROCEDURES; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 1 OF ACT 432 OF 1947 RELATING TO THE LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS CONCERNING THE NEED FOR GREENVILLE COUNTY TO TAKE OVER THE HOSPITAL OPERATED BY THE CITY OF GREENVILLE IN ORDER TO SERVE ALL THE RESIDENTS OF GREENVILLE COUNTY AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ASSURANCES NECESSARY TO EFFECT THIS PLAN.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

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

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following House Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 3789 (Word version) -- Reps. Kirsh and Cooper: A BILL TO RETITLE ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 11, TITLE 1, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EMPLOYEES AND RETIREMENT INSURANCE AS "EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES INSURANCE-ACCOUNTING FOR POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS", TO MAKE FINDINGS WITH RESPECT TO THE STATE'S COMPLIANCE WITH NEW REQUIREMENTS OF THE GOVERNMENTAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD FOR POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS; BY ADDING SECTIONS 1-11-703, 1-11-705, AND 1-11-707 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA RETIREE HEALTH INSURANCE TRUST FUND (SCRHI TRUST FUND) AND THE SOUTH CAROLINA LONG TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE TRUST FUND AS THE METHOD OF PAYING AND ACCOUNTING FOR RETIREE HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUMS AND BASIC LONG TERM DISABILITY INCOME BENEFIT PLAN PREMIUMS IN COMPLIANCE WITH NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE ACTUARIAL FUNDING AND INVESTMENT OF THE ASSETS OF THESE TRUST FUNDS, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 1-11-710, RELATING TO THE STATE HEALTH AND DENTAL PLANS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR THE SCRHI TRUST FUND BY MEANS OF INCREASED EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION RATES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 1-11-730, RELATING TO PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR POST-EMPLOYMENT PARTICIPATION IN THE STATE HEALTH AND DENTAL PLANS AND ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYER PAID PREMIUMS FOR RETIREES, SO AS TO CONFORM THE PAYMENT OF EMPLOYER PREMIUMS FOR RETIREES TO THE REVISED METHOD PROVIDED IN THIS ACT, PROSPECTIVELY TO REVISE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYER PAID PREMIUMS FOR RETIREES, AND TO DELETE AN OBSOLETE PROVISION.

THIRD READING BILL

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

S. 535 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 37-6-502, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SELECTION OF MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION ON CONSUMER AFFAIRS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ELECTION EVERY FOUR YEARS OF THE COMMISSIONERS ELECTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY BEGINNING FEBRUARY 1, 2008.

SECOND READING BILLS

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

S. 936 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Hayes, Martin, Thomas, O'Dell, Ford and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3 OF TITLE 36, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE--NEGOTIABLE INSTRUMENTS, AND CHAPTER 4 OF TITLE 36, RELATING TO THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE--BANK DEPOSITS AND COLLECTIONS, SO AS TO, INTER ALIA, ACCOMMODATE THE LAW TO TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES IN THE PROCESSES OF COLLECTION AND PAYMENT OF CHECKS BY PROVIDING FOR ELECTRONIC PRESENTMENT OF INSTRUMENTS, RETENTION WARRANTIES, AND ENCODING WARRANTIES, AND BY DEFINING A BANK'S DUTY OF ORDINARY CARE IN COLLECTION AND PAYMENT OF CHECKS TO FOLLOW THE COMMERCIALLY REASONABLE AND ACCEPTED PRACTICE THAT PROCESSING CHECKS BY AUTOMATED MEANS DOES NOT NORMALLY RESULT IN A BREACH OF THE BANK'S DUTY TO EXERCISE ORDINARY CARE BY FAILING TO EXAMINE A CHECK; TO REFORM THE RULES ALLOCATING LOSSES RESULTING FROM CHECK FRAUD BY APPLYING THE DOCTRINE OF COMPARATIVE FAULT IN DETERMINING A BANK'S LIABILITY FOR LOSSES RESULTING FROM THE BANK'S IMPROPER PAYMENT OF A CHECK BEARING AN UNAUTHORIZED SIGNATURE OR ALTERATION, AND THE RULES APPLICABLE IN IMPOSTER AND FICTITIOUS PAYEE CASES, EMPLOYERS' RESPONSIBILITY FOR FRAUDULENT ENDORSEMENTS BY EMPLOYEES, AND ISSUES THAT ARISE IN CONVERSION CLAIMS; PROTECT CONSUMERS BY PRESERVING THE RIGHTS OF A CONSUMER ISSUING A NOTE TO ASSERT AGAINST A TRANSFEREE OF THE INSTRUMENT CLAIMS AND DEFENSES THAT THE CONSUMER HAS AGAINST THE ORIGINAL PAYEE, REGULATE REMOTELY CREATED CONSUMER ITEMS AND PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO TRANSFERS OR PRESENTS THE ITEM WARRANTS THAT THE CONSUMER ON WHOSE ACCOUNT THE ITEM IS DRAWN AUTHORIZED THE ISSUANCE AND AMOUNT OF THE ITEM, AND PROTECT THE MAKER OF A NOTE THAT HAS BEEN ASSIGNED WHO PAYS THE ASSIGNOR, UNLESS THE MAKER HAS RECEIVED ADEQUATE NOTIFICATION OF THE ASSIGNMENT; PROVIDE THAT VARIABLE INTEREST RATE NOTES QUALIFY AS INSTRUMENTS THAT CAN BE NEGOTIATED TO HOLDERS IN DUE COURSE; AND ADDRESS CASHIER'S CHECKS, TELLER'S CHECKS, AND CERTIFIED CHECKS INCLUDING DELINEATION OF THE RIGHTS OF THE OWNER OF A CHECK THAT HAS BEEN LOST, DESTROYED, OR STOLEN AND THE LIABILITY OF A BANK THAT WRONGFULLY REFUSES TO PAY THE CHECK.

Senator RITCHIE explained the Bill.

S. 951 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-33-245, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE FIVE PERCENT EXCISE TAX ON THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE REVENUES OF THE TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION TO STATE AGENCIES, COUNTIES, AND LOCAL ENTITIES MUST BE BASED ON REVENUES RECEIVED IN FISCAL YEAR 2004-2005, RATHER THAN REVENUES ALLOCATED.

Senator HAYES explained the Bill.

S. 1066 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman, Setzler, Knotts and Cromer: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO RELOCATE THE COLUMBIA STATE FARMERS' MARKET FROM ITS CURRENT LOCATION IN RICHLAND COUNTY TO LEXINGTON COUNTY, TO RE-AUTHORIZE APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE DEPARTMENT TO EXPEND CERTAIN MONIES FOR THE RELOCATION, TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE TO TERMINATE THE PENDING PROJECT THAT RELOCATES THE MARKET TO THE WALKER TRACT IN RICHLAND COUNTY, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONER TO IMPLEMENT A STATEWIDE FARMERS' MARKET PLAN.

S. 1066--Ordered to a Third Reading

On motion of Senator SETZLER, S. 1066 was ordered to receive a third reading on Friday, February 8, 2007.

CARRIED OVER

S. 1075 (Word version) -- Finance Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUPPLEMENT THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS NEGATIVELY AFFECTED BY THE LACK OF REVISION OF THE 2007 FINAL INDEX OF TAXPAYING ABILITY, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A SCHOOL DISTRICT POSITIVELY AFFECTED BY THE LACK OF REVISION OF THE 2007 FINAL INDEX OF TAXPAYING ABILITY SHALL DIRECT THE EXCESS FUNDS TOWARD NONRECURRING ALLOWABLE EXPENDITURES.

Senator PEELER explained the Joint Resolution.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Joint Resolution was carried over.

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

MOTION ADOPTED

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

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

AMENDMENT PROPOSED, CARRIED OVER

S. 392 (Word version) -- Senators Ritchie, Cromer, Sheheen, Campsen, Scott, Williams and Vaughn: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION REFORM ACT", TO ADD CHAPTER 28 TO TITLE 8 RELATING TO THE ENFORCEMENT OF FEDERAL IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOM LAWS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING, TO ADD CHAPTER 29 TO TITLE 8 RELATING TO THE VERIFICATION OF A PERSON'S LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES, TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN WAGES FROM BEING CLAIMED AS A DEDUCTIBLE EXPENSE FOR STATE INCOME TAX PURPOSES, TO PROVIDE THAT TAX WITHHOLDING AGENTS MUST WITHHOLD STATE INCOME TAX AT THE RATE OF SIX PERCENT OF THE COMPENSATION PAID UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS A FELONY TO KNOWINGLY TRANSPORT A PERSON WHO IS IN THE UNITED STATES ILLEGALLY, TO PROVIDE THAT ALL JAILS IN THIS STATE MUST MAKE A REASONABLE EFFORT TO DETERMINE WHETHER A PERSON CHARGED WITH CERTAIN CRIMES ARE LAWFULLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES, TO PROVIDE A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION TO A PERSON WHO IS TERMINATED FOR ANOTHER PERSON WHO THE EMPLOYER KNEW WAS NOT LAWFULLY IN THE UNITED STATES, AND TO ADD CHAPTER 83 TO TITLE 40 RELATING TO REGISTRATION OF IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE SERVICES. (ABBREVIATED TITLE)

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator HUTTO spoke on the Bill.

Senator RITCHIE, subcommittee chairman, was recognized to explain the Bill.

ACTING PRESIDENT PRESIDES

At 12:13 P.M., Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.

Senator RITCHIE resumed explaining the Bill.

Amendment No. P-1

Senator ALEXANDER proposed the following Amendment No. P-1 (JUD0392.033):

Amend the amendment bearing document number JUD0392.028, as and if amended, by adding subsection (G) to Section 8-14-20 beginning on page 4 to read:

/   " (G)   The Employment Security Commission shall provide assistance for private employers who have twenty or less employees with verification described in Section 8-14-10(4) upon the employer's request."   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ALEXANDER explained the amendment.

Senator HUTTO spoke on the amendment.

On motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Bill was carried over.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.

RECOMMITTED

S. 714 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman, Reese, Alexander, Patterson, Moore, Thomas, Williams, Ford, Hutto, Malloy, Anderson, Martin, Elliott, Land, O'Dell, Cleary, Rankin, Knotts, Scott, Cromer, Matthews, Pinckney, McGill, Hayes, Drummond, Hawkins, Lourie and Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED REGARDING LOBBYISTS AND LOBBYING, SO AS TO DEFINE A "POLITICAL AWARENESS ORGANIZATION"; BY ADDING SECTION 2-17-27 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER OF REGISTRATION OF POLITICAL AWARENESS ORGANIZATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 2-17-37 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE FILING OF A CERTIFIED CONTRIBUTION REPORT BY A POLITICAL AWARENESS ORGANIZATION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-130, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS BY LOBBYISTS OR LOBBYIST'S PRINCIPALS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A POLITICAL AWARENESS ORGANIZATION WHICH WILFULLY VIOLATES THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 17, TITLE 2, LOBBYISTS AND LOBBYING.

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

Senator McCONNELL moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

Ayes 46; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bryant
Campbell                  Campsen                   Ceips
Cleary                    Courson                   Cromer
Drummond *                Elliott                   Fair
Ford                      Gregory                   Grooms
Hawkins                   Hayes                     Hutto
Jackson *                 Knotts                    Land
Leatherman                Leventis                  Lourie
Malloy                    Martin                    Massey
Matthews                  McConnell                 McGill
O'Dell                    Patterson                 Peeler
Pinckney                  Rankin *                  Reese
Ritchie                   Ryberg *                  Scott
Setzler                   Sheheen                   Short
Thomas                    Vaughn *                  Verdin
Williams

Total--46

NAYS

Total--0

*These Senators were not present in the Chamber at the time the vote was taken and the votes were recorded by leave of the Senate, with unanimous consent.

The Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Judiciary.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator CLEARY, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mrs. Patricia "Pat" Schiadaresis of Surfside Beach, S.C., formerly of Annandale, VA., beloved wife of Michael Schiadaresis and the late Kenneth Williamson and devoted mother of five children.

and

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator SETZLER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. John Milton Diamond, a former retired command sergeant major in the S. C. National Guard and baliff and clerk for Lexington County Courthouse. Mr. Diamond was a loving husband and devoted father and doting grandfather.

ADJOURNMENT

At 1:02 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.

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