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


Printed Page 826 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Wednesday, February 1, 2017
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:40 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:

Isaiah.41:10

"So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you."

Let us pray. Gracious God, you have blessed each person in this Chamber in so many ways but we still seem to be plagued by fear -- fear of an unexpected illness, failing health, a broken relationship, losing a loved one, joblessness and even fear of too many conflicting demands on our time.

Help us, O God, to hear Your word and have faith in Your promise that You are with us each minute of every day and that You will most assuredly sustain us and strengthen us for the challenges that we face.

We know that You are our God, our Redeemer and our source of strength and faith. Help us to live each day with the assurance of Your Word found in this scripture:

"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. I will turn the darkness into light and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do," says the Lord. "I will not forsake you."

In Your holy name we pray, Amen.

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

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate agreed that the Senate would reconvene 45 minutes after the conclusion of the Joint Assembly.

RECESS

At 11:55 A.M., on motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate receded from business for the purpose of attending the Joint Assembly.


Printed Page 827 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

JOINT ASSEMBLY
Elections

At 12:00 P.M., the Senate appeared in the Hall of the House.

The PRESIDENT of the Senate called the Joint Assembly to order and announced that it had convened under the terms of a Concurrent Resolution adopted by both Houses.

S. 108 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Malloy and Hembree: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2017, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT, SEAT 5, UPON HIS SWEARING IN AS CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JULY 31, 2020; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2017; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2017; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 9, UPON HIS ELECTION TO THE COURT OF APPEALS, CHIEF JUDGE, SEAT 5, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 10, 2017, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2018; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE, SEAT 1, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2016, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2021; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2016, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT ON THE FAMILY COURT, AT-LARGE, SEAT 7, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2017, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2023; TO ELECT A JUDGE TO A NEWLY CREATED SEAT ON THE FAMILY COURT, AT-LARGE,


Printed Page 828 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

SEAT 8, WHOSE TERM WILL BE FROM JULY 1, 2017, UNTIL JUNE 30, 2023; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SEAT 2, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE JUNE 30, 2017, THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL A NEW TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE ON JUNE 30, 2022.

Election of Justice, Supreme Court, Seat 5

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect a successor to the position of Justice, Supreme Court, Seat 5.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that the Honorable Diane Schafer Goodstein, the Honorable George C. James, Jr. and the Honorable R. Keith Kelly had been screened and found qualified to serve.

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the names of the Honorable R. Keith Kelly and the Honorable Diane Schafer Goodstein were withdrawn from consideration.

On motion of Representative Murrell Smith, Jr., the name of the Honorable George C. James, Jr. was placed in nomination, moved that nominations be closed and, with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable George C. James, Jr. was elected to the position of Justice, Supreme Court, Seat 5 for the term to expire July 31, 2020.

Election of a Court of Appeals Judge, Seat 1

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect
a successor to the position of Judge, Court of Appeals, Seat 1.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that the Honorable Paul Edgar Short, Jr. had been screened and found qualified to serve.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. placed the name of Paul Edgar Short, Jr. in nomination, moved that nominations be closed and, with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable Paul Edgar Short, Jr. was elected to the position of Judge, Court of Appeals, Seat 1 for the term to expire June 30, 2017.


Printed Page 829 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Election of a Court of Appeals Judge, Seat 2

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect
a successor to the position of Judge, Court of Appeals, Seat 2.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that the Honorable Harris Bruce Williams had been screened and found qualified to serve.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. placed the name of Harris Bruce Williams in nomination, moved that nominations be closed and, with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable Harris Bruce Williams was elected to the position of Judge, Court of Appeals, Seat 2 for the term to expire June 30, 2017.

Election to the Position of Judge, Court of Appeals, Seat 9

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect a successor to the position of Judge, Court of Appeals, Seat 9.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that Blake Alexander Hewitt, the Honorable David Garrison "Gary" Hill and the Honorable Alison Renee Lee had been screened and found qualified to serve.

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the names of Blake Alexander Hewitt and the Honorable Alison Renee Lee were withdrawn from consideration.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. placed the name of the Honorable David Garrison "Gary" Hill in nomination, moved that the nominations be closed and, with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable David Garrison "Gary" Hill was elected to the position of Judge, Court of Appeals, Seat 9 for the term to June 30, 2022.

Election of a Circuit Court Judge, 7th Judicial Circuit, Seat 2

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect
a successor to the position of Judge, Circuit Court Judge, 7th Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that Grace Gilchrist Knie and the Honorable James Donald Willingham II had been screened and found qualified to serve.


Printed Page 830 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the name of the Honorable James Donald Willingham II was withdrawn from consideration.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. placed the name of the Grace Gilchrist Knie in nomination, moved that nominations be closed and, that she be elected by acclamation.

Representative Hill objected.

The Reading Clerk of the Senate called the roll of the Senate, and the Senators voted viva voce as their names were called.

The following named Senators voted for Grace Gilchrist Knie:

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

Total--43

The following named Senators voted present:

Gambrell

Total--1

On the motion of Representative Cobb-Hunter, with unanimous consent, the members of the House voted by electronic roll call.


Printed Page 831 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

The following named Representatives voted for Grace Gilchrist Knie:

Alexander              Allison                Anderson
Anthony                Arrington              Atkinson
Atwater                Bales                  Ballentine
Bamberg                Bannister              Bedingfield
Bennett                Bernstein              Blackwell
Bowers                 Bradley                Brown
Burns                  Caskey                 Chumley
Clary                  Clemmons               Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter            Cogswell               Cole
Collins                Crawford               Crosby
Daning                 Davis                  Delleney
Dillard                Douglas                Duckworth
Elliott                Erickson               Felder
Finlay                 Forrest                Forrester
Fry                    Funderburk             Gagnon
Gilliard               Govan                  Hamilton
Hardee                 Hart                   Hayes
Henderson              Henegan                Herbkersman
Hewitt                 Hiott                  Hixon
Hosey                  Howard                 Huggins
Jefferson              Johnson                Jordan
King                   Kirby                  Knight
Long                   Lowe                   Lucas
Mack                   Martin                 McCoy
McEachern              McKnight               Mitchell
D. C. Moss             V. S. Moss             Murphy
Neal                   B. Newton              W. Newton
Norman                 Norrell                Ott
Parks                  Pope                   Putnam
Quinn                  Ridgeway               S. Rivers
Robinson-Simpson       Rutherford             Ryhal
Sandifer               Simrill                G. M. Smith
G. R. Smith            J. E. Smith            Sottile
Spires                 Stavrinakis            Stringer
Tallon                 Taylor                 Thayer
Thigpen                Toole                  Weeks


Printed Page 832 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

West                   Wheeler                Whipper
White                  Whitmire               Williams

Total--114

The following named Representatives voted against Grace Gilchrist Knie:

Hill

RECAPITULATION

Total number of Senators voting for Ms. Knie   43
Total number of Representatives voting for Ms. Knie   114
Total   157
Total number of Senators voting against Ms. Knie   0
Total number of Representatives voting against Ms. Knie   1
Total   1

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable Grace Gilchrist Knie was elected to the position of Judge, Circuit Court Judge, 7th Judicial Circuit, Seat 2 for the term to expire June 30, 2018.

Election of a Circuit Court Judge, At-Large, Seat 1

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect
a successor to the position of Judge, Circuit Court Judge, at-large, Seat 1.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that Meliah Bowers Jefferson, the Honorable George Marion McFaddin, Jr. and Timothy Ward Murphy had been screened and found qualified to serve.

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the names of Timothy Ward Murphy and Meliah Bowers Jefferson were withdrawn from consideration.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. placed the name of the Honorable George Marion McFaddin, Jr. in nomination, moved that nominations be closed and, with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable George Marion McFaddin, Jr. was elected to the position of Circuit Court Judge, at-large, Seat 1 for the term to expire June 30, 2021.


Printed Page 833 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Election to the Position of Judge, Family Court
8th Judicial Circuit, Seat 2

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect a successor to the position of Judge, Family Court, 8th Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that Samuel M. Price, Jr. and Mindy Westbrook Zimmerman had been screened and found qualified to serve.

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the name of Samuel M. Price, Jr. was withdrawn from consideration.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. Smith placed the name of Mindy Westbrook Zimmerman in nomination, moved that the nominations be closed and, with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that Mindy Westbrook Zimmerman was elected to the position of Judge, Family Court, 8th Judicial Circuit, Seat 2 for the term to expire June 30, 2022.

Election of a Family Court Judge, At-Large, Seat 7

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect
a successor to the position of Judge, Family Court Judge, at-large, Seat 7.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that Huntley Smith Crouch, Thomas "Tommy" Tredway Hodges and Delton Wright Powers, Jr. had been screened and found qualified to serve.

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the name of Huntley Smith Crouch was withdrawn from consideration.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. placed the names of Thomas "Tommy" Tredway Hodges and Delton Wright Powers, Jr. in nomination.

The Reading Clerk of the Senate called the roll of the Senate, and the Senators voted viva voce as their names were called.

The following named Senators voted for Thomas Tredway Hodges:

Allen                  Bennett                Climer
Corbin                 Courson                Cromer
Gambrell               Hembree                Martin
Massey                 McElveen               Peeler


Printed Page 834 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Rankin                 Reese                  Rice
Sabb                   Setzler                Talley
Timmons                Turner                 Verdin
Young

Total--22

The following named Senators voted for Delton Wright Powers, Jr.:

Alexander              Campbell               Campsen
Davis                  Fanning                Goldfinch
Gregory                Grooms                 Hutto
Johnson                Kimpson                Leatherman
Malloy                 Matthews, John         Matthews, Margie
McLeod                 Nicholson              Scott
Senn                   Shealy                 Sheheen
Williams

Total--22

The following named Representatives voted for Thomas Tredway Hodges:

Allison                Anthony                Arrington
Atwater                Bales                  Ballentine
Bannister              Bedingfield            Bennett
Blackwell              Bradley                Burns
Caskey                 Chumley                Clary
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Cogswell
Cole                   Collins                Crosby
Daning                 Delleney               Dillard
Elliott                Erickson               Felder
Forrest                Forrester              Funderburk
Gagnon                 Gilliard               Hamilton
Henderson              Herbkersman            Hiott
Hixon                  Huggins                Knight
Loftis                 Long                   Magnuson
Martin                 McCoy                  McKnight
Mitchell               V. S. Moss             Murphy
B. Newton              W. Newton              Ott
Pitts                  Pope                   Putnam
Quinn                  S. Rivers              Robinson-Simpson


Printed Page 835 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Rutherford              Sandifer              Simrill
G. M. Smith             G. R. Smith           Sottile
Spires                  Stavrinakis           Stringer
Tallon                  Taylor                Thayer
Toole                   Weeks                 West
Whipper                 White                 Whitmire
Willis

Total--76

The following named Representatives voted for Delton Wright Powers, Jr.:

Alexander              Anderson               Atkinson
Bamberg                Bernstein              Bowers
Brown                  Clemmons               Davis
Douglas                Duckworth              Finlay
Fry                    Govan                  Hardee
Hart                   Hayes                  Henegan
Hewitt                 Hill                   Hosey
Howard                 Jefferson              Johnson
Jordan                 King                   Kirby
Lowe                   Lucas                  Mack
McEachern              D. C. Moss             Neal
Norman                 Norrell                Parks
Ridgeway               Ryhal                  J. E. Smith
Thigpen                Wheeler                Williams
Yow

Total--43

RECAPITULATION

Total number of Senators voting   44
Total number of Representatives voting   119
Grand Total   163
Necessary to a choice   82
Of which Thomas Tredway Hodges received   98
Of which Delton Wright Powers, Jr. received   65


Printed Page 836 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable Thomas "Tommy" Tredway Hodges was elected to the position of Judge, Family Court Judge, at-large, Seat 7 for the term to expire June 30, 2023.

Election of a Family Court Judge, At-Large, Seat 8

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect
a successor to the position of Judge, Family Court Judge, at-large, Seat 8.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that Martha M. Rivers Davisson, the Honorable Rosalyn W. Frierson and Laurel Eden Harvey Hendrick had been screened and found qualified to serve.

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the name of Martha M. Rivers Davisson was withdrawn from consideration.

Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr. placed the name of the Honorable Rosalyn W. Frierson and Laurel Eden Harvey Hendrick in nomination.

The Reading Clerk of the Senate called the roll of the Senate, and the Senators voted viva voce as their names were called.

The following named Senators voted for Hon. Rosalyn W. Frierson:

Allen                  Davis                  Fanning
Gambrell               Goldfinch              Gregory
Hutto                  Johnson                Kimpson
Leatherman             Malloy                 Matthews, John
Matthews, Margie       McElveen               McLeod
Nicholson              Rankin                 Reese
Sabb                   Scott                  Senn
Setzler                Sheheen                Talley
Williams

Total--25

The following named Senators voted for Laurel Eden Harvey Hendrick:

Alexander              Bennett                Campbell
Campsen                Climer                 Corbin
Courson                Cromer                 Grooms
Hembree                Martin                 Massey
Peeler                 Rice                   Shealy


Printed Page 837 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Timmons                Turner                 Verdin
Young

Total--19

The following named Representatives voted for Hon. Rosalyn W. Frierson:

Alexander              Anderson               Anthony
Bales                  Bamberg                Bannister
Bowers                 Brown                  Clemmons
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Crawford
Daning                 Dillard                Douglas
Duckworth              Elliott                Fry
Funderburk             Gilliard               Govan
Hamilton               Hardee                 Hayes
Henderson              Henegan                Herbkersman
Hosey                  Howard                 Jefferson
Johnson                King                   Kirby
Knight                 Lowe                   Lucas
Mack                   McEachern              McKnight
Mitchell               Murphy                 Neal
Norrell                Ott                    Parks
Pitts                  Putnam                 Ridgeway
S. Rivers              Robinson-Simpson       G. M. Smith
G. R. Smith            J. E. Smith            Sottile
Thigpen                Weeks                  Whipper
Williams               Yow

Total--59

The following named Representatives voted for Laurel Eden Harvey Hendrick:

Allison                Arrington              Atkinson
Atwater                Ballentine             Bennett
Bernstein              Blackwell              Bradley
Burns                  Caskey                 Chumley
Clary                  Cogswell               Cole
Collins                Crosby                 Davis
Delleney               Erickson               Felder
Finlay                 Forrest                Forrester


Printed Page 838 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Gagnon                 Hart                   Hewitt
Hill                   Hiott                  Hixon
Huggins                Jordan                 Loftis
Long                   Magnuson               Martin
McCoy                  McCravy                D. C. Moss
V. S. Moss             B. Newton              W. Newton
Norman                 Pope                   Quinn
Rutherford             Ryhal                  Sandifer
Simrill                Spires                 Stavrinakis
Stringer               Tallon                 Taylor
Thayer                 Toole                  West
Wheeler                White                  Whitmire

Total--60

RECAPITULATION

Total number of Senators voting   44
Total number of Representatives voting   119
Grand Total   163
Necessary to a choice   82
Of which Hon. Rosalyn W. Frierson received   84
Of which Laurel Eden Harvey Hendrick received   79

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable Rosalyn W. Frierson was elected to the position of Judge, Family Court Judge, at-large, Seat 8 for the term to expire June 30, 2023.

Election of a Administrative Law Court Judge, Seat 2

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order to elect a successor to the position of Judge, Administrative Law Court, Seat 2.

Representative G. Merrill Smith, Jr., Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, indicated that Milton G. Kimpson, Grady L. "Leck" Patterson III and Debra Sherman Tedeschi had been screened and found qualified to serve.

On motion of Representative G. Murrell Smith, Jr., the names of Debra Sherman Tedeschi and Grady L. "Leck" Patterson III were withdrawn from consideration.

Representative G. Merrill Smith, Jr. placed the name of Milton G. Kimpson in nomination, moved that nominations be closed and, with


Printed Page 839 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the PRESIDENT announced that the Honorable Milton G. Kimpson was elected to the position of Judge, Administrative Law Court, Seat 2 for the term to expire June 30, 2022.

The purposes of the Joint Assembly having been accomplished, the PRESIDENT declared it adjourned, whereupon the Senate returned to its Chamber and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

RECESS

At 12:45 P.M., on motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate receded from business until 1:30 P.M.

At 1:33 P.M., the Senate resumed.

Point of Quorum

At 1:35 P.M., Senator MALLOY made the point that a quorum was not present. It was ascertained that a quorum was not present.

Call of the Senate

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

Alexander                 Allen                     Campbell
Climer                    Corbin                    Cromer
Davis                     Fanning                   Gambrell
Grooms                    Hutto                     Leatherman
Malloy                    Martin                    McLeod
Nicholson                 Peeler                    Rice
Senn                      Shealy                    Turner
Williams                  Young

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

Recorded Presence

Senators RICE recorded his presence subsequent to the Call of the Senate.


Printed Page 840 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Doctor of the Day

Senator RANKIN introduced Dr. Richard C. Osman of Myrtle Beach, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator McELVEEN, at 5:10 P.M., Senator KIMPSON was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator GROOMS, at 5:10 P.M., Senator CAMPBELL was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 22 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 27 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 36 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 57 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 59 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 98 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 137 (Word version)     Sen. Turner
S. 139 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 140 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 150 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 201 (Word version)     Sen. Gregory
S. 217 (Word version)     Sen. Verdin
S. 218 (Word version)     Sen. Martin
S. 263 (Word version)     Sens. Martin, Rice, Gambrell
S. 341 (Word version)     Sen. Fanning
S. 342 (Word version)     Sen. M.B. Matthews

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 335 (Word version) -- Senator Courson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE ANN S. TIMBERLAKE ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT, TO COMMEND HER FOR HER THIRTEEN YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE WITH CONSERVATION VOTERS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO


Printed Page 841 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

WISH HER MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS TO COME.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 336 (Word version) -- Senator Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR WILLIAM HENRY "BILL" JOHNSON, JR., OF MARION FOR HIS DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF MARION COUNTY AND TO WISH HIM MUCH SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS UPON HIS RECENT RETIREMENT AS PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE PEE DEE FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 337 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 34-26-410, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE POWERS OF CREDIT UNIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A CREDIT UNION MAY PROVIDE CERTAIN SERVICES TO CERTAIN NONMEMBERS; TO AMEND SECTION 34-26-500, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MEMBERSHIP IN A CREDIT UNION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PROCEDURE TO ADMIT NEW COMMUNITY GROUPS TO A CREDIT UNION; TO AMEND SECTION 34-26-640, RELATING TO BOARD MEETINGS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE BOARD TO MEET AT LEAST ONCE DURING TEN DIFFERENT MONTHS OF EACH YEAR AND TO ALLOW A DIRECTOR TO PARTICIPATE REMOTELY IN CERTAIN MEETINGS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 34-26-1020, RELATING TO PERMISSIBLE INVESTMENTS OF CREDIT UNION FUNDS, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR AN INVESTMENT IN CERTAIN CHARITABLE DONATION ACCOUNTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

S. 338 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Courson, J. Matthews and Setzler: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT THE OPENING DATE FOR STUDENTS TO ATTEND PUBLIC SCHOOLS DURING THE 2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR MAY BE AS EARLY AS THURSDAY,


Printed Page 842 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

AUGUST SEVENTEENTH, IN THE DISCRETION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 339 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA PROMISE SCHOLARSHIP ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 111, TITLE 59 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION SHALL ADMINISTER THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE RELATED POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 340 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-3-230 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA'S POET LAUREATE, TO PROVIDE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA ARTS COMMISSION SHALL PROVIDE THE GOVERNOR WITH RECOMMENDATIONS OF QUALIFIED CANDIDATES AND TO ESTABLISH TERMS OF OFFICE AND DUTIES.
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Read the first time and referred to the General Committee.

S. 341 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler, McLeod and Fanning: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROPOSE AN AMENDMENT TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTION, 1895, BY ADDING ARTICLE XVIII, TO PROVIDE FOR AN INDEPENDENT REAPPORTIONMENT COMMISSION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION ARE CHOSEN, TO PROVIDE FOR THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPROVAL OF PROPOSED APPORTIONMENT PLANS, TO PROVIDE FOR APPORTIONMENT IN THE EVENT THAT A PROPOSED APPORTIONMENT PLAN IS NOT APPROVED BY REFERENDUM, AND TO EXEMPT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS


Printed Page 843 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

ARTICLE FROM THE PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN ARTICLE III, SECTION 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 342 (Word version) -- Senators Williams, Davis, Hembree, Campbell, J. Matthews, Setzler, Grooms, Hutto, Allen, Johnson, Nicholson, Scott, M. B. Matthews, Rankin and Sabb: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-22-295 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO ENGINEER IMMUNITY, TO PROVIDE SPECIFIED IMMUNITY FOR CERTAIN VOLUNTARY SURVEYING SERVICES AT THE SCENE OF A DECLARED STATE OR NATIONAL EMERGENCY AT THE REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS TO THIS IMMUNITY, AND TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THIS GRANT OF IMMUNITY IS APPLICABLE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 343 (Word version) -- Senator Campbell: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 5, TITLE 57 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM, BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-880, TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SHALL BEAR COSTS, NOT TO EXCEED SEVEN AND ONE-HALF PERCENT OF THE TOTAL PROJECT COSTS, FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS OR IMPROVEMENTS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECTION DOES NOT GRANT THE DEPARTMENT THE AUTHORITY TO PREVENT OR MATERIALLY LIMIT A PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM'S UTILIZATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN A STATE TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT'S RIGHT-OF-WAY; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ACQUIRE ADDITIONAL RIGHTS-OF-WAY TO FACILITATE THE LOCATION OF UTILITIES OUTSIDE OF RIGHTS-OF-WAY CURRENTLY CONTAINED IN THE PUBLIC HIGHWAY SYSTEM.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.


Printed Page 844 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

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

S. 345 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-55 SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN NURSING PROFESSIONALS MAY PROVIDE NONCONTROLLED PRESCRIPTION DRUGS AT ENTITIES THAT PROVIDE FREE MEDICAL SERVICES FOR INDIGENT PATIENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-57 SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN NURSING PROFESSIONALS MAY CERTIFY STUDENTS AS UNABLE TO ATTEND SCHOOL BUT WHO POTENTIALLY MAY BENEFIT FROM RECEIVING INSTRUCTION AT HOME OR IN A HOSPITAL; BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-59 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NURSE PRACTITIONERS AND CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIVES ORALLY OR IN WRITING MAY REFER A PATIENT TO A PHYSICAL THERAPIST FOR TREATMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-61 SO AS TO PROVIDE RECIPIENTS AND BENEFICIARIES OF CERTAIN ASSISTANCE AND SERVICES WITHIN THE SCOPE OF PRACTICE OF A NURSE PRACTITIONER OR CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIFE MAY CHOOSE THE PROVIDERS FROM WHOM THEY RECEIVE SUCH ASSISTANCE AND SERVICES; BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-63 SO AS TO PROVIDE NURSE PRACTITIONERS AND CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIVES MAY PRONOUNCE DEATH AND SIGN DEATH CERTIFICATES; BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE NURSE PRACTITIONERS AND CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIVES MAY ORDER HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE SERVICES FOR PATIENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-67 SO AS TO PROVIDE NURSE PRACTITIONERS AND CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIVES MAY CERTIFY INDIVIDUALS AS HANDICAPPED FOR PURPOSES OF


Printed Page 845 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

OBTAINING HANDICAPPED PARKING PLACARDS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-370 SO AS TO EXEMPT ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES FROM CERTAIN LICENSURE AND PRACTICE PROVISIONS WHEN EMPLOYED BY THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND PROVIDING SERVICES UNDER THE DIRECTION AND CONTROL OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 40-33-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE NURSE PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE AND ADD NECESSARY DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 40-33-34, RELATING TO THE PERFORMANCE OF DELEGATED MEDICAL ACTS, QUALIFICATIONS, PROTOCOLS, AND PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORIZATIONS OF LICENSEES OF THE NURSING BOARD, SO AS TO MAKE VARIOUS REVISIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO REVISE SEVERAL DEFINITIONS AFFECTING THE SCOPE OF PRACTICE OF CERTAIN LICENSEES OF THE NURSING BOARD; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-195, RELATING TO PHYSICIANS SUPERVISING MEDICAL ACTS DELEGATED TO OTHER PROFESSIONALS, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT THAT SUPERVISING PHYSICIANS BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING CERTAIN ACTS DELEGATED TO ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES ARE PERFORMED TO CERTAIN STANDARDS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 346 (Word version) -- Senators Kimpson and Campbell: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 7, TITLE 6 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA INCLUSIONARY ZONING ACT" TO PROVIDE THAT COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES ARE AUTHORIZED TO USE INCLUSIONARY ZONING STRATEGIES TO INCREASE THE AVAILABILITY OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.


Printed Page 846 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

S. 347 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-190(B), RELATING TO SPECIAL ELECTIONS TO FILL VACANCIES, TO PROVIDE FOR AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF WEEKS FOR THE PRIMARY, RUNOFF PRIMARY, AND SPECIAL ELECTION FOR OFFICES IN WHICH THERE ARE PARTISAN ELECTIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 348 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO PROCLAIM FEBRUARY 22, 2017, AS "PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO RECOGNIZE THE ESSENTIAL SERVICES PROVIDED BY THIS GROUP OF PROFESSIONALS.
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The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

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

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

H. 3221 (Word version) -- Reps. Allison, Collins, Felder, Daning, Govan, Taylor, Knight and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-20-90 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP AND ADOPT A STATEWIDE PROGRAM FOR IDENTIFYING FISCAL PRACTICES AND BUDGETARY CONDITIONS THAT, IF UNCORRECTED, COULD COMPROMISE THE FISCAL INTEGRITY OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT AND FOR ADVISING THE DISTRICT ON HOW TO TAKE APPROPRIATE CORRECTIVE ACTIONS, TO ESTABLISH THREE LEVELS OF FISCAL AND BUDGETARY CONCERNS WITH CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH EACH, AND TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS


Printed Page 847 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

TO CARRY OUT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-20-95 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE AUDITOR TO ADOPT THE STATEWIDE PROGRAM CREATED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION IN SECTION 59-20-90 AND USE IT TO IDENTIFY FISCAL PRACTICES AND BUDGETARY CONDITIONS THAT, IF UNCORRECTED, COULD COMPROMISE THE FISCAL INTEGRITY OF A STATE AGENCY THAT IS ALSO A LOCAL EDUCATION AGENCY AND TO ADVISE THE STATE AGENCY THAT IS ALSO A LOCAL EDUCATION AGENCY ON HOW TO TAKE APPROPRIATE CORRECTIVE ACTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS TO ENABLE THE STATE AUDITOR TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO IMMEDIATELY ASSUME EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OF THE STATE AGENCY THAT IS ALSO A LOCAL EDUCATION AGENCY FOR WHICH IT HAS MADE A DECLARATION OF FISCAL CAUTION OR FISCAL EMERGENCY, TO CONTINUE THIS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OF THE LOCAL EDUCATION AGENCY UNTIL THE STATE AUDITOR RELEASES THE STATE AGENCY THAT IS ALSO A LOCAL EDUCATION AGENCY FROM THE DECLARATION OF FISCAL CAUTION OR FISCAL EMERGENCY, AS APPLICABLE, AND TO DIRECT THE STATE AUDITOR TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS TO CARRY OUT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION.

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

H. 3346 (Word version) -- Reps. Collins, Clary and Hiott: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 260 OF 1981, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PICKENS COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF BOARD MEMBERS FROM SIX TO SEVEN, TO PROVIDE THE SEVENTH MEMBER INITIALLY MUST BE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR UPON RECOMMENDATION OF A MAJORITY OF THE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION OF PICKENS COUNTY TO SERVE AT LARGE UNTIL A MEMBER REPRESENTING A NEWLY CREATED SEVENTH SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICT IS ELECTED AND QUALIFIED IN THE 2022 GENERAL ELECTION, AT WHICH TIME THE AT-LARGE SEAT TERMINATES, AND TO PROVIDE ALL PICKENS COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS MUST BE ELECTED BY MAJORITY VOTE BEGINNING WITH THE GENERAL ELECTION IN 2022.

The Bill was introduced and referred to the Local Delegation.


Printed Page 848 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

H. 3517 (Word version) -- Reps. Hiott, Kirby, Duckworth, Forrest, Hixon, Hewitt, Davis and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 50-9-750 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MAY ISSUE SPECIAL AUTHORIZATION FOR HUNTING AND FISHING TO ANY PERSON WHO IS NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-ONE YEARS OLD WHO HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH A TERMINAL OR LIFE THREATENING ILLNESS OR INJURY WHO IS SPONSORED BY CERTAIN NONPROFIT CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS, TO PROVIDE THAT LICENSE, TAG, AND FEE REQUIREMENTS FOR HUNTING AND FISHING ARE WAIVED, AND TO ALLOW THE DIRECTOR TO DETERMINE THE PERIOD OF TIME IN WHICH THE SPECIAL AUTHORIZATION IS VALID.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

H. 3623 (Word version) -- Reps. Atkinson, Alexander, Allison, Anderson, Anthony, Arrington, Atwater, Bales, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bedingfield, Bennett, Bernstein, Blackwell, Bowers, Bradley, Brown, Burns, Caskey, Chumley, Clary, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cogswell, Cole, Collins, Crawford, Crosby, Daning, Davis, Delleney, Dillard, Douglas, Duckworth, Elliott, Erickson, Felder, Finlay, Forrest, Forrester, Fry, Funderburk, Gagnon, Gilliard, Govan, Hamilton, Hardee, Hart, Hayes, Henderson, Henegan, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hill, Hiott, Hixon, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Johnson, Jordan, King, Kirby, Knight, Loftis, Long, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, Magnuson, Martin, McCoy, McCravy, McEachern, McKnight, Mitchell, D. C. Moss, V. S. Moss, Murphy, Neal, B. Newton, W. Newton, Norman, Norrell, Ott, Parks, Pitts, Pope, Putnam, Quinn, Ridgeway, M. Rivers, S. Rivers, Robinson-Simpson, Rutherford, Ryhal, Sandifer, Simrill, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, Sottile, Spires, Stavrinakis, Stringer, Tallon, Taylor, Thayer, Thigpen, Toole, Weeks, West, Wheeler, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Williams, Willis and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR WILLIAM HENRY "BILL" JOHNSON, JR., OF MARION FOR HIS DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF MARION COUNTY AND TO WISH HIM MUCH SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS UPON HIS RECENT RETIREMENT AS


Printed Page 849 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE PEE DEE FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK.

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

HOUSE CONCURRENCE

S. 320 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE DR. JAMES E. WISEMAN ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP TO THE NEWBERRY OPERA HOUSE FOUNDATION, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS TO COME.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO HOUSE

The Bill was read third time, passed and ordered sent to the House of Representatives with amendments.

S. 198 (Word version) -- Senators Shealy, Alexander, McElveen and Bryant: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-100 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO DRIVERS' LICENSES, TO PROVIDE THAT A MINOR MAY APPLY FOR A BEGINNER'S PERMIT, INSTRUCTION PERMIT, OR DRIVERS' LICENSE UNDER THE AUTHORIZATION OF A RESPONSIBLE ADULT WILLING TO ASSUME THE OBLIGATION IMPOSED.

SECOND READING BILL

The following Bill, having been read the second time, was ordered placed on the Third Reading Calendar:

S. 310 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A BILL TO PERMIT THE TOWN OF CAMDEN TO ANNEX CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY BY ORDINANCE UPON FINDING THAT THE PROPERTY IS BLIGHTED.

Senator SHEHEEN explained the Bill.


Printed Page 850 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 263 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Malloy, Alexander, Grooms, Campbell, Martin, Rice, Gambrell, Turner and Corbin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 140 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES SHALL ISSUE "CLEMSON UNIVERSITY 2016 FOOTBALL NATIONAL CHAMPIONS" SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 38; Nays 0

AYES

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

Total--38

NAYS

Total--0

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


Printed Page 851 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 316 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO AT-RISK STUDENTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4656, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Resolution.

Senator HEMBREE explained the Resolution.

The question then was second reading of the Resolution.

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

Ayes 38; Nays 0

AYES

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

Total--38

NAYS

Total--0

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


Printed Page 852 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 44 (Word version) -- Senators Gregory and Reese: 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 EXEMPT EIGHTY PERCENT OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF CERTAIN DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES AND TO EXEMPT THE VALUE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCE PROPERTY FOR RESIDENTIAL USE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (DG\44C001.BBM.DG17), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, page 2, by striking Section 12-37-220(B)(53) and inserting:

/   (53)   renewable energy resource property for residential use. For purposes of this item, 'renewable energy resource' is defined in Section 58-40-10, and also has a nameplate capacity of no greater than twenty kilowatts as measured in alternating current."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator CAMPBELL explained the committee amendment.

Senator CROMER spoke on the amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator McELVEEN proposed the following amendment (44R001.SP.JTM), which was adopted:

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

/SECTION   .   A.     Section 12-6-3770(A) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 134 of 2016, is amended to read:

"Section 12-6-3770.   (A)   A taxpayer who constructs, purchases, or leases solar energy property located on the Environmental Protection Agency's National Priority List, National Priority List Equivalent Sites, or on a list of related removal actions, as certified by the Department of Health and Environmental Control, or on property owned by the Pinewood Site Custodial Trust located in the State of South Carolina, and places it in service in this State during the taxable year, is allowed


Printed Page 853 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

an income tax credit equal to twenty-five percent of the cost, including the cost of installation of the property. The credit is earned in the year in which the solar energy property is placed in service, but must be taken in five equal annual installments, beginning in the year in which the solar energy property is placed in service. Unused credit may be carried forward for five taxable years from the year in which the credit was able to be taken. A lessor shall give a taxpayer who leases solar energy property from him a statement that describes the solar energy property and states the cost of the property upon request. A credit is not allowed pursuant to this section to the extent the cost of the solar energy property is provided by public funds. For purposes of this section, 'public funds' does not include federal grants or tax credits."

B.   This SECTION takes effect in income tax years beginning after 2016 and shall apply and terminate in the same manner as provided in Section 1.B. of Act 134 of 2016.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator McELVEEN explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (DG\44C002.BBM.DG17), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, page 1, by striking Section 12-37-220(B)(52)(b) and inserting:

/   (b)   this exemption applies for property that became operational after property tax year 2012 and only applies for the ten consecutive property tax years after the distributed energy resource becomes operational. For property that became operational in property tax year 2013 or 2014, this exemption applies so long as the property was not subject to a fee in lieu agreement as of December 31, 2014, pursuant to Chapter 44 of this title, or Chapter 12 or 29, Title 4. For property that became operational in property tax year 2015 or 2016, if the property was subject to a fee in lieu agreement as of December 31, 2016, pursuant to Chapter 44 of this title, or Chapter 12 or 29, Title 4, then the property is eligible for the exemption instead of the fee in lieu agreement so long as the taxpayer notifies the other parties to the agreement of the election no later than thirty days after the effective date of this item, and, upon


Printed Page 854 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

the expiration of the exemption, at the taxpayer's discretion, the provisions of the applicable pre-existing agreement may apply;     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator CAMPBELL explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 38; Nays 4

AYES

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

Total--38

NAYS

Cromer                    Fanning                   Gambrell
Peeler

Total--4

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


Printed Page 855 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 176 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 1, TITLE 24 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS, BY ADDING SECTION 24-1-300, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO OPERATE AN UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE WITHIN A CERTAIN DISTANCE OF A DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS FACILITY WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR THE VIOLATION.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Corrections and Penology proposed the following amendment (176R003.DR.SRM), which was adopted:

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

/SECTION   ___.   Article 1, Chapter 5, Title 24 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 24-5-175.   (A)   A person shall not operate an unmanned aerial vehicle within a horizontal distance of five hundred feet or a vertical distance of two hundred fifty feet from any local detention facility without written consent from the jail administrator.

(B)   A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both."       /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SHEALY explained the committee amendment.

Senator SHEHEEN spoke on the amendment.

Senator RICE proposed the following amendment (176R004.DR.RFR), which was tabled:

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

/SECTION   1.   Chapter 1, Title 24 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 24-1-300.   (A)   A person shall not operate an unmanned aerial vehicle within a horizontal distance of five hundred feet or a vertical distance of two hundred fifty feet from any Department of


Printed Page 856 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Corrections facility without written consent from the director of the Department of Corrections.

(B)   Regarding the consent required pursuant to subsection (A), the director may enter into a general consent agreement with a public utility, as defined in Section 58-4-5(6), allowing the public utility to operate a drone within the restricted area to perform maintenance as needed, provided that the agreement requires appropriate notice to the facility concerning when the maintenance will occur.

(C)   A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both."

SECTION   2.   Article 1, Chapter 5, Title 24 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 24-5-175.   (A)   A person shall not operate an unmanned aerial vehicle within a horizontal distance of five hundred feet or a vertical distance of two hundred fifty feet from any local detention facility without written consent from the jail administrator.

(B)   Regarding the consent required pursuant to subsection (A), the jail administrator may enter into a general consent agreement with a public utility, as defined in Section 58-4-5(6), allowing the public utility to operate a drone within the restricted area to perform maintenance as needed, provided that the agreement requires appropriate notice to the facility concerning when the maintenance will occur.

(C)   A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both."

SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RICE explained the committee amendment.

Senator SHEHEEN moved to lay the amendment on the table.

The amendment was tabled.

Senator TIMMONS proposed the following amendment (176R002.DR.WRT), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by inserting an appropriately lettered new section at the end to read:


Printed Page 857 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

/   (   )(1)   In addition to the penalty provided in this section, an unmanned aerial vehicle involved in the violation of this section may be confiscated by the Department of Corrections. An unmanned aerial vehicle must not be disposed of in any manner until the results of any legal proceeding in which it may be involved are finally determined. Records must be kept of all confiscated unmanned aerial vehicles received by the Department of Corrections under the provisions of this section. Upon convinction pursuant to a violation of this section, the relevant unmanned aerial vehicle shall be placed in the custody of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

(2)   Any unmanned aerial vehicle confiscated pursuant to this section shall be administratively released to an innocent owner. The unmanned aerial vehicle must not be released to the innocent owner until the results of any legal proceedings in which the unmanned aerial vehicle may be involved are finally determined. Before the unmanned aerial vehicle may be released, the innocent owner shall provide the Department of Corrections with proof of ownership and shall certify that the innocent owner will not release the unmanned aerial vehicle to the person who was charged with the violation of this section that resulted in the confiscation of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The Department of Corrections shall notify the innocent owner when the unmanned aerial vehicle is available for release. If the innocent owner fails to recover the unmanned aerial vehicle within thirty days after notification of the release, the Department of Corrections may maintain or dispose of the unmanned aerial vehicle as otherwise provided in this section."       /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by inserting an appropriately lettered new section at the end to read:

/   (   )(1)   In addition to the penalty provided in this section, an unmanned aerial vehicle involved in the violation of this section may be confiscated by the jail administrator of a local detention facility. An unmanned aerial vehicle must not be disposed of in any manner until the results of any legal proceeding in which it may be involved are finally determined. Records must be kept of all confiscated unmanned aerial vehicles received by the jail administrator under the provisions of this section. Upon conviction pursuant to a violation of this section, the relevant unmanned aerial vehicle shall be placed in the custody of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

(2)   Any unmanned aerial vehicle confiscated pursuant to this section shall be administratively released to an innocent owner. The unmanned aerial vehicle must not be released to the innocent owner until


Printed Page 858 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

the results of any legal proceedings in which the unmanned aerial vehicle may be involved are finally determined. Before the unmanned aerial vehicle may be released, the innocent owner shall provide the jail administrator with proof of ownership and shall certify that the innocent owner will not release the unmanned aerial vehicle to the person who was charged with the violation of this section that resulted in the confiscation of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The jail administrator shall notify the innocent owner when the unmanned aerial vehicle is available for release. If the innocent owner fails to recover the unmanned aerial vehicle within thirty days after notification of the release, the local detention facility may maintain or dispose of the unmanned aerial vehicle as otherwise provided in this section."       /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator TIMMONS explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 43; Nays 0

AYES

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


Printed Page 859 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Turner                    Verdin                    Williams
Young

Total--43

NAYS

Total--0

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

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 220 (Word version) -- Senators Shealy and McElveen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 63-7-920(C) OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO INTERVIEWS CONDUCTED DURING AN INVESTIGATION OF CHILD ABUSE ALLEGATIONS, TO PROVIDE THAT HEARING IMPAIRED CHILDREN SHALL BE INTERVIEWED USING A SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER NOT RELATED TO THE CHILD, TO ALLOW FOR REMOTE VIDEO INTERPRETATION, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO MAINTAIN A DATABASE OF QUALIFIED INTERPRETERS; AND TO AMEND CHAPTER 25, TITLE 16, RELATING TO CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, TO PROVIDE THAT INTERVIEWS CONDUCTED DURING AN INVESTIGATION OF CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN WHICH A HEARING IMPAIRED CHILD MAY HAVE BEEN INVOLVED OR WITNESSED THE ACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MUST BE CONDUCTED WITH THE USE OF A SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER NOT RELATED TO THE CHILD.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD0220.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, by striking lines 17-19 and inserting:

/     child during the interview. The interview may occur outside the presence of the child's parent or other family members, however, the


Printed Page 860 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

interview must occur outside the presence of any potential or alleged abusers.     /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 2, by striking lines 35-37 and inserting:

/     language interpreter when conducting an interview of the child. The interview may occur outside the presence of the child's parent or other family members, however, the interview must occur outside the presence of any potential or alleged suspects.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the Bill.

Senator HUTTO explained the committee amendment.

Senator SHEALY proposed the following amendment (JUD0220.002), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   1.   Section 63-7-920(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)(1)(a)   The department or law enforcement, or both, may interview the child alleged to have been abused or neglected and any other child in the household during the investigation. The interviews may be conducted on school premises, at childcare facilities, at the child's home or at other suitable locations and in the discretion of the department or law enforcement, or both, may be conducted outside the presence of the parents or guardians, however, the interview must occur outside the presence of any potential or alleged abusers.

(b)   To the extent reasonably possible, the needs and interests of the child must be accommodated in making arrangements for interviews, including time, place, method of obtaining the child's presence, and conduct of the interview. The department or law enforcement, or both, shall provide notification of the interview to the parents as soon as reasonably possible during the investigation if notice will not jeopardize the safety of the child or the course of the investigation.

(c)   All state, law enforcement, and community agencies providing child welfare intervention into a child's life should coordinate their services to minimize the number of interviews of the child to reduce potential emotional trauma to the child.


Printed Page 861 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

(2)(a)   The department or law enforcement, or both, must use a trained and qualified American Sign Language interpreter when conducting an interview of a hearing impaired child who communicates in American Sign Language, pursuant to item (1). The child's parent, guardian, or family member may not act as an interpreter for the child during the interview. The interview may occur outside the presence of the child's parent, guardian, or other family members, however, the interview must occur outside the presence of any potential or alleged abusers.

(b)   The interpreter may interpret from a remote location by communicating with the child using video remote interpreting. If the child is unable to understand, then a live, qualified interpreter from the list compiled pursuant to subitem (c) shall be used.

(c)   The department shall maintain a list of qualified sign language interpreters in each county available to conduct interviews pursuant to this subsection or the department may contract with a provider to maintain such a list.

(d)   The requirements of Section 63-7-920(C)(2) do not limit the ability of the department or law enforcement from communicating or attempting to communicate with the victim in case of an emergency, at the scene of an incident, or at the discretion of the interviewer if a sign language interpreter is unavailable and obtaining information from the child is necessary prior to the interpreter becoming available."

SECTION   2.   Chapter 25, Title 16 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 16-25-75.   (A)   A law enforcement officer who is investigating a violation of this article or a violation of Chapter 3, Title 16 that may have involved or occurred in the presence of a hearing impaired child who communicates in American Sign Language must use a trained and qualified American Sign Language interpreter when conducting an interview of the child. The interview may occur outside the presence of the child's parent or other family members, however, the interview must occur outside the presence of any potential or alleged suspects.

(B)   The interpreter may interpret from a remote location by communicating with the child using video remote interpreting. If the child is unable to understand, then a live, qualified interpreter from the list compiled pursuant to Section 63-7-920(C)(2)(c) shall be used.

(C)   The requirements of this section do not limit the ability of law enforcement from communicating or attempting to communicate with


Printed Page 862 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

the victim in case of an emergency, at the scene of an incident, or at the discretion of the interviewer if a sign language interpreter is unavailable and obtaining information from the child is necessary prior to the interpreter becoming available."

SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

  ----XX---     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 44; Nays 0

AYES

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

Total--44

NAYS

Total--0


Printed Page 863 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

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

CARRIED OVER

S. 6 (Word version) -- Senators Bryant, Hembree and Campbell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 47-3-630 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR TEASING, MALTREATING, AND INJURING POLICE DOGS AND HORSES, TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO TORTURES, MUTILATES, INJURES, DISABLES, POISONS, OR KILLS A POLICE DOG OR HORSE MAY BE FINED UP TO TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS, MAY BE IMPRISONED FOR UP TO TEN YEARS, MUST PAY RESTITUTION TO COVER THE COST OF RESTORING OR REPLACING THE DOG OR HORSE INJURED OR KILLED, AND MAY BE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE UP TO FIVE HUNDRED HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE FOR AN ANIMAL-RELATED ORGANIZATION OR FOUNDATION.

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

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator SHEHEEN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator MASSEY rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the committee selection process in Rule 19 was waived and a vacancy was filled in the following manner:

Senator HEMBREE fills a vacancy on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and vacates a seat on the General Committee.

Senator CORBIN fills a vacancy on the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee and vacates a seat on the General Committee

Senator GAMBRELL fills a vacancy on the General Committee and vacates a seat on the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee.


Printed Page 864 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

SEATING SELECTION

On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, with unanimous consent, the seat selection process in Rule 4 was waived and seat selections were made in the following manner:

Seat #8     Senator CAMPSEN

Seat #11     Senator GOLDFINCH

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

MOTION ADOPTED

At 2:42 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED, AMENDED
READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 27 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Young, Hembree, Climer and Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-3-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF THE STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT BY THE GOVERNOR, BY AND WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TERM, QUALIFICATIONS, AND FILLING OF A VACANCY IN THE OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 59-3-20 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN THE OFFICE OF THE STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the committee amendment, the question being the adoption of the committee amendment.

The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C002.AGM.AB17), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-3-10(B)(1), as contained in SECTION 1, page 2, by deleting the item in its entirety and inserting:

/   (1)   experience in the field of public education including, but not limited to, service as a classroom teacher, principal, other school or


Printed Page 865 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

school district administrator, school district superintendent, member of a school board, or other education policy making body at either the state or local level or any combination of them; or /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator COURSON spoke on the Bill.

Senator SCOTT spoke on the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Amendment No. P1-1

Senator SCOTT proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C017.AGM.WAB17), which was adopted:

Amend the amendment bearing document number WAB\27C007.AGM.AB17, as and if amended, Section 59-3-10(B)(1), as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting the item in its entirety and inserting:

/   (1)   substantive and broad-based experience in the field of public education including, but not limited to, service as a classroom teacher, principal, other school or school district administrator, school district superintendent, or other education policy making body at either the state or local level or any combination of them; or /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SCOTT spoke on the perfecting amendment.

The perfecting amendment was adopted.

Amendment No. 1

Senators SHEHEEN and HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C007.AGM.AB17), which was adopted:

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

/ SECTION   1.   Section 59-3-10 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 59-3-10.   (A)   The State Superintendent of Education shall must be elected at each general election in the same manner as other State officers and shall enter upon the duties of his office at the time prescribed


Printed Page 866 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

by law. Before entering upon the duties of his office he shall give bond for the use of the State in the penal sum of five thousand dollars, with good and sufficient sureties, to be approved by the Governor, conditioned for the faithful and impartial performance of the duties of his office, and he shall also, at the time of giving bond, take and subscribe the oath prescribed in Section 26 of Article III of the Constitution of the State, which shall be endorsed upon the back of the bond. The bond shall be filed with the Secretary of State, and by him recorded and, when so recorded, shall be filed with the State Treasurer. The Superintendent of Education shall receive as compensation for his services such sum as the General Assembly shall by law provide, payable monthly out of the State Treasury, and his traveling expenses, not exceeding three hundred dollars, shall be paid out of the State Treasury upon duly itemized accounts rendered by him appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate. The superintendent shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor and must receive such compensation as may be established under the provision of Section 8-11-160. A vacancy in the office of superintendent must be filled as provided in Section 1-30-10(B)(1)(iv) and in Section 1-3-210, as applicable.

(B)   The Superintendent of Education must possess:

(1)   substantive and broad-based experience in the field of public education including, but not limited to, service as a classroom teacher, principal, other school or school district administrator, school district superintendent, member of a school board, or other education policy making body at either the state or local level or any combination of them; or

(2)   substantive and broad-based experience in operational and financial management in any field of expertise including, but not limited to, finance, economics, accounting, law, or business."

SECTION   2.   Section 1-30-100(B)(1) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 121 of 2014, is further amended to read:

"(1)   The governing authority of each department shall be:

(i)     a director or a secretary, who must be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, subject to removal from office by the Governor pursuant to provisions of Section 1-3-240(B); or

(ii)   a board to be appointed and constituted in a manner provided for by law; or

(iii)   in the case of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Education, the State Commissioner of Agriculture and the


Printed Page 867 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

State Superintendent of Education, respectively, elected to office under the Constitution of this State; or

(iv)   in the case of the Department of Education, the State Superintendent of Education appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, serving at the pleasure of the Governor; or

(v)   in the case of the Department of Transportation, a seven member commission constituted in a manner provided by law, and a Secretary of Transportation appointed by and serving at the pleasure of the Governor."

SECTION   3.   Section 1-1-1210 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 1-1-1210.   The annual salaries of the state officers listed below are:

Governor   $98,000

Lieutenant Governor   43,000

Secretary of State   85,000

State Treasurer   85,000

Attorney General   85,000

Comptroller General   85,000

Superintendent of Education   85,000

Adjutant General   85,000

Commissioner of Agriculture   85,000

These salaries must be increased by two percent on July 1, 1991, and on July first of each succeeding year through July 1, 1994.

A state officer whose salary is provided in this section may not receive compensation for ex officio service on any state board, committee, or commission."

SECTION   4.   The person elected State Superintendent of Education in the 2018 General Election shall serve out his term; however, if the person vacates that office before the term expires in January 2023, any successors must: (1) be appointed as provided in Section 1-30-10(B)(1)(iv); and (2) must satisfy the experience requirements of Section 59-3-10(B).

SECTION   5.   Section 59-3-20 of the 1976 Code is repealed.

SECTION   6.   The provisions of this act take effect upon approval and ratification of an amendment to Section 7, Article VI of the South Carolina Constitution, 1895, providing for the appointment of the State Superintendent of Education by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and are applicable beginning with the 2018 General Election. /


Printed Page 868 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Amendment No. 2

Senator SCOTT proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C015.AGM.WAB17), which was carried over and subsequently withdrawn:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-3-10(B), as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting the subsection in its entirety and inserting:

/   (B) The State Superintendent of Education must:

(1)   hold an earned doctorate degree in education or a related field; and

(2)   must have at least ten years of experience in public education or a related field." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SCOTT explained the amendment.

The amendment was carried over.

Amendment No. 3

Senator SCOTT proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C014.AGM.WAB17), which was withdrawn:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-3-10(B), as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting the subsection in its entirety and inserting:

/   (B)   The State Superintendent of Education must:

(1)   hold a master's degree from an accredited institution; and

(2)   a minimum of five years of demonstrated successful administrative experience at a managerial level in public education, related fields, or both." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SCOTT explained the amendment.


Printed Page 869 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Senator HEMBREE moved to lay the amendment on the table.

Point of Order

Senator MALLOY raised a Point of Order that the motion was out of order inasmuch as Senator HEMBREE did not have the floor.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

On motion of Senator SCOTT, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 3 was withdrawn.

Amendment No. 5

Senator SCOTT proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C018.AGM.WAB17), which was carried over and subsequently withdrawn:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-3-10(B), as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting the subsection in its entirety and inserting:

/   (B)   The State Superintendent of Education must:

(1)   meet minimum education requirements of holding:

(a)   master's degree, regardless of subject, from an accredited institution; or

(b)   a doctorate degree, such a doctor of education, with coursework in education administration, law, and finance; and

(2)   meet minimum experience requirements of having:

(a)   at least three years of experience in public school administration;

(b)   two to five years of public education management experience above the school principal level, such as that of curriculum administrator; or

(c)   five years of teaching experience." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SCOTT explained the amendment.

The amendment was carried over.

Amendment No. 4

Senator SCOTT proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C012.AGM.WAB17), which was carried over and subsequently withdrawn:


Printed Page 870 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-3-10(B), as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting the subsection in its entirety and inserting:

/   (B)   The State Superintendent of Education must:

(1)   hold a master's degree from an accredited institution; and

(2)   have at least five years of experience as a public school teacher and at least five of administrative or supervisory experience in public education." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SCOTT explained the amendment.

RECESS

At 3:37 P.M., on motion of Senator COURSON, the Senate receded from business not to exceed 10 minutes.

At 3:50 P.M., the Senate resumed.

Senator SCOTT moved to carry over the amendment.

The amendment was carried over.

Amendment No. 6

Senator SCOTT proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C013.AGM.WAB17), which was carried over and subsequently withdrawn:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-3-10(B), as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting the subsection in its entirety and inserting:

/   (B)   The State Superintendent of Education must hold an earned advanced degree, preferably in education or educational administration awarded from an accredited institution." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The amendment was carried over.

Amendment No. 7

Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (WAB\27C011.AGM.WAB17), which was carried over and subsequently withdrawn:


Printed Page 871 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

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

/ SECTION   1.A.   Section 59-3-10 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 59-3-10.   (A)   The State Superintendent of Education shall must be elected at each general election in the same manner as other State officers and shall enter upon the duties of his office at the time prescribed by law. Before entering upon the duties of his office he shall give bond for the use of the State in the penal sum of five thousand dollars, with good and sufficient sureties, to be approved by the Governor, conditioned for the faithful and impartial performance of the duties of his office, and he shall also, at the time of giving bond, take and subscribe the oath prescribed in Section 26 of Article III of the Constitution of the State, which shall be endorsed upon the back of the bond. The bond shall be filed with the Secretary of State, and by him recorded and, when so recorded, shall be filed with the State Treasurer. The Superintendent of Education shall receive as compensation for his services such sum as the General Assembly shall by law provide, payable monthly out of the State Treasury, and his traveling expenses, not exceeding three hundred dollars, shall be paid out of the State Treasury upon duly itemized accounts rendered by him appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate. The superintendent shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor and must receive such compensation as may be established under the provision of Section 8-11-160. A vacancy in the office of superintendent must be filled as provided in Section 1-30-10(B)(1)(iv) and in Section 1-3-210, as applicable.

(B)   The Superintendent of Education must possess:

(1)   substantive and broad-based experience in the field of public education including, but not limited to, service as a classroom teacher, principal, other school or school district administrator, school district superintendent, member of a school board, or other education policy making body at either the state or local level or any combination of them; or

(2)   substantive and broad-based experience in operational and financial management in any field of expertise including, but not limited to, finance, economics, accounting, law, or business."

B.   Section 59-3-10(B), as added by SECTION 1.A., is effective upon approval by the Governor.

SECTION   2.   Section 1-30-100(B)(1) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 121 of 2014, is further amended to read:


Printed Page 872 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

"(1)   The governing authority of each department shall be:

(i)     a director or a secretary, who must be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, subject to removal from office by the Governor pursuant to provisions of Section 1-3-240(B); or

(ii)   a board to be appointed and constituted in a manner provided for by law; or

(iii)   in the case of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Education, the State Commissioner of Agriculture and the State Superintendent of Education, respectively, elected to office under the Constitution of this State; or

(iv)   in the case of the Department of Education, the State Superintendent of Education appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, serving at the pleasure of the Governor; or

(v)   in the case of the Department of Transportation, a seven member commission constituted in a manner provided by law, and a Secretary of Transportation appointed by and serving at the pleasure of the Governor."

SECTION   3.   Section 1-1-1210 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 1-1-1210.   The annual salaries of the state officers listed below are:

Governor   $98,000

Lieutenant Governor   43,000

Secretary of State   85,000

State Treasurer   85,000

Attorney General   85,000

Comptroller General   85,000

Superintendent of Education   85,000

Adjutant General   85,000

Commissioner of Agriculture   85,000

These salaries must be increased by two percent on July 1, 1991, and on July first of each succeeding year through July 1, 1994.

A state officer whose salary is provided in this section may not receive compensation for ex officio service on any state board, committee, or commission."

SECTION   4.   The person elected State Superintendent of Education in the 2018 general election shall serve out his term; however, if the person vacates that office before the term expires in January 2023, any successors must: (1) be appointed as provided in Section


Printed Page 873 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

1-30-10(B)(1)(iv); and (2) must satisfy the experience requirements of Section 59-3-10(B).

SECTION   5.   Section 59-3-20 of the 1976 Code is repealed.

SECTION   6.   The provisions of Section 59-3-10(B), as contained in SECTION 1.A., take effect upon approval by the Governor, and are applicable to any successor to the person elected State Superintendent of Education in the 2014 General Election. The remaining of this act take effect upon approval and ratification of an amendment to Section 7, Article VI of the South Carolina Constitution, 1895, providing for the appointment of the State Superintendent of Education by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and are applicable beginning with the 2018 General Election. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was carried over.

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, with unanimous consent, Senators CAMPSEN, SABB, TALLEY, MALLOY and HUTTO were granted leave to attend a subcommittee meeting and were granted leave to vote from the balcony.

Amendment No. 8

Senators SCOTT, HEMBREE and CROMER proposed the following amendment (27R001.SP.JS), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended by striking Section 59-3-10(B) and inserting:

/   (B)   The Superintendent of Education must possess:

(1)   the minimum of a master's degree and substantive and broad-based experience in the field of public education including, but not limited to, service as a classroom teacher, principal, other school or school district administrator, school district superintendent, or other education policy making body at either the state or local level or any combination of them; or

(2)   substantive and broad-based experience in operational and financial management in any field of expertise including, but not limited to, finance, economics, accounting, law, or business."     /


Printed Page 874 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The amendment was adopted.

On motion of Senator SCOTT, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 2, Amendment No. 4, Amendment No. 5, Amendment No. 6 and Amendment No. 7 were withdrawn.

Amendment No. 9A

Senators SCOTT, HUTTO and MASSEY proposed the following amendment (27R002.SP.ASM), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking Section 59-3-10(B)(1) and inserting:

/   (B)   The Superintendent of Education must possess:

(1)   the minimum of a master's degree and substantive and broad-based experience in the field of public education including, but not limited to, service as a classroom teacher, principal, other school or school district administrator, school district superintendent, or other education policy making body at either the state or local level or any combination of them; or  

(2)   the minimum of a master's degree and substantive and broad-based experience in operational and financial management in any field of expertise including, but not limited to, finance, economics, accounting, law, or business.

(C)   Any judicial action challenging the qualifications of a candidate must be brought in the circuit court within thirty days of the close of candidate filing for Superintendent of Education."     /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 6 and inserting:

/   SECTION   6.   The provisions of Section 59-3-10(B), as contained in SECTION 1.A., take effect upon approval by the Governor. The remaining provisions of this act take effect upon approval and ratification of an amendment to Section 7, Article VI of the South Carolina Constitution, 1895, providing for the appointment of the State Superintendent of Education by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and are applicable beginning with the 2018 General Election./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.


Printed Page 875 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

The amendment was adopted.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 41; Nays 0

AYES

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

Total--41

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

Motion Adopted

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



Printed Page 876 . . . . . Wednesday, February 1, 2017

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senators ALEXANDER, RICE, CORBIN, TURNER, ALLEN, MARTIN, TALLEY, PEELER, TIMMONS, NICHOLSON, GAMBRELL and REESE, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Keith Frazier of Greenville, S.C. Mr. Frazier worked for the Department of Social Services for over 20 years in a variety of roles and was a regional director over six counties in the Upstate. He was very respected by his staff and community and dedicated himself to helping children and families in South Carolina. Keith was a loving husband and devoted father who will be dearly missed.

and

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator JOHNSON, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Dr. Carl Bentley Ramsey of Manning, S.C. Dr. Ramsey served in the United States military in Korea. He received a master's degree in 1954 from Peabody College in Nashville and an educational specialist degree in 1972 from Western Carolina University. Carl was named the Clarendon School District Two Superintendent in 1972 and served until he retired in 1988. In 1992, he was elected to the Clarendon County Council and served for twelve years. He was a dedicated servant who will be dearly missed.

ADJOURNMENT

At 5:12 P.M., on motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.

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