NO. 7

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The House assembled at 10:00 a.m.
Deliberations were opened with prayer by Rev. Jeff Lingerfelt as follows:

Our thought for today is from Deuteronomy 32:1a 3-4: "Give ear, O heavens, and let me speak;" "For I proclaim the name of the Lord; Ascribe greatness to our God!" "The Rock! His work is perfect, for all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He."
Let us pray: Our Father you are creator and sustainer of all things. Without you we can do nothing. You and you alone are perfect, just, faithful and Righteous.
We in this Body are needy creatures in need of your perfection and righteousness. Would you grant this to your servants assembled here today.
Thank you for sovereignly appointing these choice men and women whom you have placed in this House, to accomplish your work for the betterment of the citizen of this great state.
Bless our leaders to be wise and decerning in their deliberations.
Grant humility that all may know YOU, the MOST HIGH GOD, and you rule over the realm of mankind.
We pray and ask these things in your magnanimous and precious name. Amen

Pursuant to Rule 6.3, the House of Representatives was led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America by the SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE.

After corrections to the Journal of the proceedings of yesterday, the SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE ordered it confirmed.

Rep. GRANT moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Ryan Buckson II, which was agreed to.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that when we adjourn today, it do so in memory of Mr. Ryan Buckson II.
Ryan, known affectionately through District 79 as "Buck" tragically passed away last week. As a father, family man, and friend to so many, Buck's impact and infectious spirit were a true joy to be around. It often felt as though he never met a stranger, because to him we were all his family.
While I'll miss our many conversations, I am deeply grateful for his support and encouragement. May he rest in peace and power.
Mr. Speaker, I will also ask that my words be recorded in the Journal and if we could pause in a moment of silence for Mr. Ryan Buckson II.
Rep. Hamilton Grant

On motion of Rep. FORREST, with unanimous consent, the following were taken up for immediate consideration and accepted:

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of South Carolina First Steps, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 3, 2026, from 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at the Pastides Alumni Center.

Sincerely,
Elliott Epps
Legislative Affairs Liaison

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Economic Developer's Association, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. in the Capital Center Lobby.

Sincerely,
Katie Koon
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the SC Optometric Physicians Association, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Palmetto Club.

Sincerely
Jackie Rivers
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,

On behalf of the Metro Chamber Coalition, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Parker Poe.

Sincerely,
Matthew Panik, Chief Advocacy Officer
Charlotte Regional Business Alliance

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of NAMI South Carolina, Mental Health America SC, SC Psychiatric Association, and SC Psychological Association, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Bill Lindsey
NAMI SC Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Luncheon. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Christine Avery
Executive Assistant

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health (IMPH), the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Palmetto Club.

Sincerely,
Maya Pack
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of Richland County Council, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at The Township Auditorium.

Sincerely,
Jesica Mackey, Chair
Richland County Council

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Palmetto Broadband Coalition, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Burr & Forman Law Firm.

Sincerely,
Nola Armstrong
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
David Houck
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Columbia Museum of Art.

Sincerely,
Audra Grant
Director of Investor Relations, Marketing & Special Projects

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina State Museum Foundation, the Members of the House, their staff, and families are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the South Carolina State Museum.

Sincerely,
Catey Lechner

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Association of School Administrators, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Dr. Quincie L. Moore
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Independent Banks of South Carolina, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Luncheon. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely
Teresa D. Taylor
President & CEO

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Carolina Recycling Association, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Palmetto Club.

Sincerely,
Mary P. McClellan
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands SC, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at The Palmetto Club.

Sincerely, Patrick Michaels
President and CEO

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Lexington County Development Corporation, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

Sincerely,
Catey Lechner

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Michael W. Fields
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Halls Chophouse.

Sincerely,
Gracie Stockman

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the University of South Carolina Alumni Association, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the USC Alumni Center.

Sincerely,
Gracie Stockman

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Palmetto Power Cities, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Copeland
Municipal Association of SC

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of SC State University, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Luncheon. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Hope Blackley

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Association of Counties, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at The Palmetto Club.

Sincerely,
Timothy Winslow
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Craft Distillers Guild, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. at Steel Hands Distilling.

Sincerely,
Scott Blackwell
President

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Forestry Association of South Carolina, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Cam Crawford
President and DEO

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina, the Members of the House of Representatives and their staff are invited to a Legislative Luncheon. This event will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on the State House Grounds.

Sincerely,
Ann Westbrook
Interim President and CEO

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Retail Association, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at The Palmetto Club.

Sincerely,
Krista Hinson
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Aviation Association, the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. in the Capital Center Lobby.

Sincerely,
Melanie Frisco
Account Executive

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, the Members of the House of Representatives and staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

Sincerely,
Jimmy Gray
VP Public Policy

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police, the Members of the House of Representatives and staff are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
John C. Blackmon
President

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Technical College System, the Members of the House of Representatives and staff are invited to a Legislative Luncheon. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,

Karen O. Taylor
Project Coordinator

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Association of ABC Stores of South Carolina, the Members of the House of Representatives and staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at The Palmetto Club.

Sincerely,
Hannah Lowrance
Executive Director

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the Members of the House of Representatives and staff are invited to a Legislative Reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Olympia Armory.

Sincerely,
Duncan M. Crotwell
Director of Government Affairs

January 22, 2026
The Honorable Dennis Moss
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Chairman Moss,
On behalf of the Coalition for Access to Health Care, the Members of the House of Representatives and staff are invited to a Legislative Breakfast. This event will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. in Room 112, Blatt Building.

Sincerely,
Stephanie Burgess
PhD, APRN, FAAN, FAANP

The following were received and referred to the appropriate committee for consideration:

Document No. 5430
Agency: South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 42-3-30
Filing a Claim
Received by Speaker of the House of Representatives
January 20, 2026
Referred to Regulations, Admin. Proc., AI and Cybersecurity Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 10, 2026

Document No. 5431
Agency: South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 1-23-110(A)(1)(c), 42-3-30, and 42-5-20
Self-Insurers' Proof of Compliance, Irrevocable Letter of Credit
Received by Speaker of the House of Representatives
January 20, 2026
Referred to Regulations, Admin. Proc., AI and Cybersecurity Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 10, 2026

Rep. W. NEWTON, from the Committee on Judiciary, submitted a favorable report with amendments on:

H. 4756 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Bailey, Ballentine, Brewer, Brittain, Bustos, Caskey, Chapman, Crawford, Davis, Duncan, Forrest, Gagnon, Gatch, Gilliam, Guest, Hardee, Hartz, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, J. E. Johnson, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Martin, McCravy, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, T. Moore, W. Newton, Oremus, Pedalino, Rankin, Robbins, Sanders, Schuessler, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Taylor, Vaughan, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Willis, Wooten, Yow, B. Newton, Chumley, Edgerton, Magnuson, Terribile, White, D. Mitchell, Cromer, Gilreath, Huff, Landing, Lastinger, Teeple, Guffey and McCabe: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA STUDENT PHYSICAL PRIVACY ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 23, TITLE 59 SO AS TO PROVIDE VARIOUS MEASURES TO PROMOTE AND ENSURE PRIVACY AMONG SEXES USING CERTAIN RESTROOMS AND CHANGING FACILITIES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

The following was introduced:

H. 4987 (Word version) -- Reps. Kirby, Alexander, Hayes, Jordan, Lowe, Williams, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Kilmartin, King, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO COMMEMORATE THE FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TRAGIC EXPLOSION OF THE CHALLENGER SPACE SHUTTLE, AND TO REMEMBER THE ANNUAL DESIGNATION OF OCTOBER 21 AS "RONALD MCNAIR DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4988 (Word version) -- Reps. Hart, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR SHARON B. BROWN HARRIOTT FOR HER LEADERSHIP, SERVICE, AND OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4989 (Word version) -- Reps. Reese and J. L. Johnson: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE CADETS AND COACH OF THE LOWER RICHLAND HIGH SCHOOL ARMY JROTC DRILL TEAM FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM FOR THEIR MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4990 (Word version) -- Rep. Cobb-Hunter: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL TEAM OF ORANGEBURG COUNTY WITH THE TEAM COACHES, AT A DATE AND TIME TO BE DETERMINED BY THE SPEAKER, FOR THE PURPOSE OF BEING RECOGNIZED AND COMMENDED FOR CAPTURING THE 2025 NATIONAL HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES' CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the privilege of the floor of the South Carolina House of Representatives be extended to the South Carolina State University football team of Orangeburg County with the team coaches, at a date and time to be determined by the Speaker, for the purpose of being recognized and commended for capturing the 2025 National Historically Black Colleges and Universities' Championship title.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4991 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA ON THE OCCASION OF ITS TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSITY, AND THE ENTIRE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA SYSTEM, FOR ITS MANY AND SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE EDUCATION, HEALTH, AND CIVIC LIFE OF OUR CITIZENS AND TO DECLARE TUESDAY, FEBUARY 17, 2026, "CAROLINA DAY-225 YEARS OF SERVICE" AT THE STATE HOUSE.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4992 (Word version) -- Reps. Calhoon, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR BRIAN HUCKS, VARSITY HEAD BASEBALL COACH AT LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL, AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM UPON BEING INDUCTED INTO THE SOUTH CAROLINA BASEBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME, CLASS OF 2025.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4993 (Word version) -- Reps. Hart, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF REVEREND DR. LILLIE A. BURGESS OF RICHLAND COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER LOVING FAMILY AND CHURCH MEMBERS AND TO HER MANY FRIENDS.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4994 (Word version) -- Rep. Hartz: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE GAIL GINGREY UPON THE OCCASION OF HER FIFTY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE AS A REALTOR IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO WISH HER CONTINUED HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4995 (Word version) -- Reps. Anderson, Alexander, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND LEONARDO DRS FOR ITS SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT IN SOUTH CAROLINA, ITS CONTRIBUTIONS TO NATIONAL DEFENSE, AND ITS SUPPORT OF THE UNITED STATES NAVY'S SHIPBUILDING AND SUBMARINE PROGRAMS.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4996 (Word version) -- Reps. Calhoon, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF EBONY F. BOWERS OF LEXINGTON AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4997 (Word version) -- Reps. Alexander and King: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DRAPER G. MYERS, OWNER AND OPERATOR OF DRAPER G. MYERS MORTUARY, LLC, IN FLORENCE, AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM ON THE OPENING OF ANOTHER MORTUARY IN LAKE CITY.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4998 (Word version) -- Reps. C. Mitchell, Yow, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis and Wooten: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE THE MONTH OF APRIL 2026 AS "FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH" IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced:

H. 4999 (Word version) -- Reps. Bernstein, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE HONORABLE CAROLYN CASON MATTHEWS AND TO CONGRATULATE HER ON RECEIVING THE 2025 JEAN GALLOWAY BISSELL AWARD FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA WOMEN LAWYERS ASSOCIATION.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced:

H. 5000 (Word version) -- Reps. Gibson and McCravy: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE BRIDGE THAT CROSSES LITTLE RIVER ALONG UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 378 BETWEEN HUGUENOT PARKWAY AND HOLIDAY ROAD IN MCCORMICK COUNTY "CHARLIE KIRK MEMORIAL BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Concurrent Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 836 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE NEWBERRY COLLEGE FOOTBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING THE NCAA DIVISION 2 SUPER REGION 2 TITLE.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 837 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE NEWBERRY COLLEGE WOMEN'S FIELD HOCKEY TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR FINISHING AS NATIONAL RUNNER UP IN THE NCAA DIVISION 2 NATIONAL TOURNAMENT.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

The following Bills were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:

H. 5001 (Word version) -- Reps. Beach, Gibson, Cromer, D. Mitchell, Duncan, Bustos, McCravy, Hartz, Kilmartin, Wickensimer, Edgerton, Long, Pedalino, Terribile, Pace, Gilreath, M. M. Smith, Robbins, Yow, Harris, Oremus, Taylor, Frank, Magnuson, Lawson, Chumley, Morgan, Teeple, Calhoon, Gilliam, Hixon, Landing and Lowe: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-130, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF LICENSES AND LICENSE EXAMINATIONS ADMINISTERED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DRIVER'S LICENSE EXAMINATIONS MAY BE ADMINISTERED IN ENGLISH ONLY.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works

H. 5002 (Word version) -- Reps. Henderson-Myers, Hosey, Williams and Luck: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 49 TO TITLE 43 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE CERTIFICATION OF COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA; TO ESTABLISH CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS AND AUTHORIZED SERVICES; TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO PROMULGATE CERTAIN REGULATIONS, INCLUDING CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS; TO PROVIDE FOR MEDICAID REIMBURSEMENT OF AUTHORIZED SERVICES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 44-6-75 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES TO SEEK FEDERAL APPROVAL FOR A STATE MEDICAID PLAN AMENDMENT OR WAIVER INCLUDING SERVICES PROVIDED BY CERTIFIED COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
Referred to Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs

H. 5003 (Word version) -- Rep. Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-10-970, RELATING TO USE OF LOCAL OPTION TOURISM DEVELOPMENT FEE REVENUES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT UP TO FIFTY PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT RETAINED MAY BE USED BY THE MUNICIPALITY TO PROVIDE A CREDIT AGAINST PROPERTY TAX LIABILITY.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

H. 5004 (Word version) -- Rep. Bailey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 39-5-39, RELATING TO AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISING IN A FALSE, DECEPTIVE, OR MISLEADING MANNER, SO AS TO DEFINE FALSE ADVERTISING; TO PROVIDE THAT ANY ADVERTISING FOR LEGAL SERVICES THAT REFERENCES A SETTLEMENT OBTAINED ON BEHALF OF A CLIENT MUST DISCLOSE THE AMOUNT OF ATTORNEY FEES AND LITIGATION COSTS DEDUCTED FROM THE RECOVERY; TO REQUIRE THE LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT TO CLARIFY THAT ANY REFERENCED RESULTS ARE NOT REPRESENTATIVE OF ALL CASES AND THAT OUTCOMES DEPEND ON THE SPECIFIC FACTS OF EACH CASE; AND TO PROVIDE THAT ANY ADVERTISING FOR LEGAL SERVICES THAT STATES THAT THE FILING OF A LAWSUIT IS AGAINST AN INSURANCE COMPANY OR OTHER THIRD PARTY MUST DISCLOSE THE FACT THAT ANY LAWSUIT WOULD BE FILED AGAINST AN INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS THAT WOULD BE NAMED AS THE DEFENDANT AND THAT THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS ONLY PROVIDING THE COVERAGE ON BEHALF OF THE NAMED INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS BASED ON A POLICY PURCHASED BY THE INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 5005 (Word version) -- Rep. White: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-600, RELATING TO ASSAULT AND BATTERY OFFENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ASSAULT AND BATTERY OF A HIGH AND AGGRAVATED NATURE OCCURS WHEN A PERSON THREATENS, INTIMIDATES, HARASSES, STALKS, OR OTHERWISE INJURES A FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OR CORRECTIONS OFFICER; A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL, HEALTHCARE WORKER, OR AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE EMPLOYEE; OR AN EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONAL DURING OR BECAUSE OF THE PERSON'S OFFICIAL DUTIES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 5006 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Long, Hewitt, M. M. Smith, Gatch, Schuessler, Stavrinakis, Hiott, Pope, Erickson, Hixon, Neese, Wooten, Ligon, Chapman, Forrest, Hartz, Guffey, Ford, Willis, Cox, Sanders, Vaughan, Oremus and Duncan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SMALL BUSINESS TAX CUT OF 2026"; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT THE FIRST TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS OF NET DEPRECIATED VALUE OF BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY OWNED BY A SMALL BUSINESS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-900, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX RETURNS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A TAXPAYER IS NOT REQUIRED TO RETURN BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY FOR TAXATION IF THE TAXPAYER HAS LESS THAN TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS OF NET DEPRECIATED VALUE OF BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY; BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-980 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT ALL BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY REQUIRED TO BE RETURNED FOR TAXATION TO BE RETURNED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-20-50, RELATING TO THE LICENSE TAX ON CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT, UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, THE FEE DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY PORTION OF THE FIRST FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS OF CERTAIN CAPITAL STOCK AND PAID-IN OR CAPITAL SURPLUS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 33-44-409, RELATING TO STANDARDS OF CONDUCT OF A CORPORATE OFFICER, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION TO REFRAINING FROM COMPETING.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

H. 5007 (Word version) -- Reps. C. Mitchell, Brewer and Yow: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 39-1-100 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN MANUFACTURERS' WARRANTIES ON HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEMS AUTOMATICALLY TRANSFER TO NEW OWNERS IN THE EVENT OF A TRANSFER OF THE REAL PROPERTY.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

H. 5008 (Word version) -- Reps. Schuessler, Bernstein and Calhoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA FOSTERING FUTURES ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 111, TITLE 59, SO AS TO REQUIRE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO WAIVE TUITION AND FEES FOR CERTAIN CURRENT AND FORMER FOSTER YOUTH; TO PROVIDE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND LIMITS; AND TO REQUIRE INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT AND REPORTING.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

H. 5009 (Word version) -- Reps. Schuessler, Bernstein and Calhoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTIONS 63-7-2630 AND 63-9-765 SO AS TO REQUIRE FAMILY COURTS TO CONSIDER THE APPROPRIATENESS OF NO-CONTACT ORDERS OR SUPERVISED-CONTACT ORDERS WHEN TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS OR FINALIZING ADOPTIONS; TO AUTHORIZE THESE ORDERS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 5010 (Word version) -- Rep. Schuessler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-3-25 SO AS TO DELINEATE ACTIONS THAT CONSTITUTE THE PRACTICE OF REGISTERED INTERIOR DESIGN AND SPECIFY EXCLUSIONS; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 40-3-5; 40-3-10; 40-3-20; 40-3-30; 40-3-80; 40-3-110; 40-3-115; 40-3-130; 40-3-140; 40-3-150; 40-3-200; 40-3-230; 40-3-240; 40-3-250; 40-3-260; 40-3-270; 40-3-280; 40-3-290; 40-3-300; 40-3-310; AND 40-3-320, ALL RELATING TO THE REGULATION OF ARCHITECTS, SO AS TO INCORPORATE PROVISIONS SIMILARLY REGULATING REGISTERED INTERIOR DESIGNERS; AND BY REDESIGNATING CHAPTER 3, TITLE 40, AS "ARCHITECTS AND REGISTERED INTERIOR DESIGNERS."
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

H. 5011 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman, Gatch, Brewer, Ford and Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "TENANT PROTECTION ACT OF 2026" BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-3137 SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION LIMITING THE INCREASE IN PROPERTY TAX VALUE FOLLOWING AN ASSESSABLE TRANSFER OF INTEREST.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

S. 59 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-440, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE AND MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

The roll call of the House of Representatives was taken resulting as follows:

Alexander                Anderson                 Atkinson
Bailey                   Ballentine               Bamberg
Bannister                Bauer                    Beach
Bernstein                Bowers                   Bradley
Brewer                   Brittain                 Burns
Bustos                   Calhoon                  Caskey
Chapman                  Chumley                  Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter              Collins                  Cox
Crawford                 Cromer                   Davis
Dillard                  Duncan                   Edgerton
Erickson                 Ford                     Forrest
Frank                    Gagnon                   Garvin
Gatch                    Gibson                   Gilliam
Gilliard                 Gilreath                 Govan
Grant                    Guest                    Guffey
Haddon                   Hardee                   Harris
Hart                     Hartnett                 Hartz
Hayes                    Henderson-Myers          Herbkersman
Hewitt                   Hiott                    Hixon
Holman                   Hosey                    Howard
Huff                     J. L. Johnson            Jones
Jordan                   Kilmartin                King
Kirby                    Landing                  Lastinger
Lawson                   Ligon                    Long
Lowe                     Luck                     Magnuson
McCabe                   McCravy                  McDaniel
McGinnis                 C. Mitchell              D. Mitchell
Montgomery               J. Moore                 T. Moore
Morgan                   Moss                     Neese
B. Newton                W. Newton                Oremus
Pace                     Pedalino                 Pope
Rankin                   Reese                    Rivers
Robbins                  Rose                     Rutherford
Schuessler               Scott                    Sessions
G. M. Smith              M. M. Smith              Stavrinakis
Teeple                   Terribile                Weeks
Wetmore                  White                    Whitmire
Wickensimer              Williams                 Willis
Wooten                   Yow                      

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. HAGER a leave of absence for the day due to medical reasons.

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. J. E. JOHNSON a leave of absence for the day.

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. SANDERS a leave of absence for the day to attend Leadership SC in Greenwood.

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. SPANN-WILDER a leave of absence for the day due to medical reasons.

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. TAYLOR a leave of absence for the day due to medical reasons.

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. WATERS a leave of absence for the day due to business reasons.

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. MARTIN a leave of absence for the day due to a prior speaking engagement.

Announcement was made that Dr. Gregory Tarasidis of Greenwood County was the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

In accordance with House Rule 5.2 below:

"5.2 Every bill before presentation shall have its title endorsed; every report, its title at length; every petition, memorial, or other paper, its prayer or substance; and, in every instance, the name of the member presenting any paper shall be endorsed and the papers shall be presented by the member to the Speaker at the desk. A member may add his name to a bill or resolution or a co-sponsor of a bill or resolution may remove his name at any time prior to the bill or resolution receiving passage on second reading. The member or co-sponsor shall notify the Clerk of the House in writing of his desire to have his name added or removed from the bill or resolution. The Clerk of the House shall print the member's or co-sponsor's written notification in the House Journal. The removal or addition of a name does not apply to a bill or resolution sponsored by a committee."

Bill Number:   H. 3030 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   CROMER and GILREATH

Bill Number:   H. 3210 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   POPE

Bill Number:   H. 3217 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   POPE

Bill Number:   H. 4306 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   M. M. SMITH

Bill Number:   H. 4591 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   T. MOORE, CHAPMAN, LAWSON, BREWER, FORD, PEDALINO, LIGON and ROBBINS

Bill Number:   H. 4622 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   FORD

Bill Number:   H. 4703 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   HIXON, HARTZ, CLYBURN and GATCH

Bill Number:   H. 4749 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   CROMER and D. MITCHELL

Bill Number:   H. 4754 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   POPE

Bill Number:   H. 4764 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   BOWERS

Bill Number:   H. 4962 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/22/26   B. NEWTON, BOWERS and ALEXANDER

Bill Number:   H. 4176 (Word version)
Date:   REMOVE:
01/22/26   GATCH

The SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE granted Rep. TERRIBILE a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.

The following was introduced:

H. 5012 (Word version) -- Rules Committee: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO AMEND RULE 5.16 OF THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, RELATING TO IMMEDIATE CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A HOUSE OR CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONCERNING SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT SHALL BE REFERRED TO THE RULES COMMITTEE, AND IF THE RESOLUTION IS REPORTED OUT FAVORABLY FROM THE RULES COMMITTEE, IT SHALL RECEIVE IMMEDIATE CONSIDERATION; AND TO AMEND RULE 5.19, RELATING TO DEBATE ON PARTICULAR QUESTIONS BEFORE THE HOUSE AND THEIR RESPECTIVE TIME LIMITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A MEMBER ACCEPTS QUESTIONS DURING THE MEMBER'S SPEECH, THE MEMBER MAY NOT THEREAFTER REFUSE TO ACCEPT QUESTIONS, AND SUCH REFUSAL SHALL RESULT IN THE TERMINATION OF THE MEMBER'S ALLOTTED TIME.
Rep. CASKEY explained the Resolution.

Rep. KING proposed the following Amendment No. 1 to H. 5012 (Word version) (LC-5012.DG0002H), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the resolution, as and if amended, by adding a resolution clause at the end to read:
Be it further resolved by the House of Representatives:
That Rule 5.19 of the Rules of the House of Representatives is amended to read:
5.19   a.   No member shall speak more than twice on the main question of a bill or resolution being considered for any reading and not longer than sixty minutes for the first speech nor longer than thirty minutes for the second speech, unless allowed to do so by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members present and voting. No member shall speak more than twice upon an amendment or a motion to reconsider that is debatable and then not longer than ten minutes each time. However, if the previous question has been invoked, no member may speak more than twice on a motion to reconsider that is debatable and then not longer than the amount of time remaining for debate of the underlying motion; provided, that proposed amendments announced and introduced by the Reading Clerk shall be considered prior to a member speaking on the bill. No member shall speak more than twice on Senate amendments to a House bill and not longer than sixty minutes for the first speech nor longer than thirty minutes for the second speech, unless allowed to do so by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members present and voting. The House may, however, by consent of a majority of the members present and voting suspend the operation of this rule during any debate on any particular question before the House.

Provided, each bill or joint resolution, prior to receiving second reading, must be explained for a minimum of ten minutes or until all questions from House members are addressed, whichever occurs first. The committee chairman of the committee to which a bill or joint resolution was referred, the committee chairman's designee, the sponsor(s) of the bill or joint resolution, and other members of the House may jointly explain the bill or joint resolution in order to provide the required explanation.

b.   Subsection a. of this rule shall be applicable on a section by section basis on debate upon the General Appropriations Bill, the Supplemental Appropriations Bill, or the bond bills but shall not apply to bills on reapportionment.

c.   The question of granting Free Conference Powers shall require an affirmative vote of two thirds of the membership of the House and is not debatable. No member shall speak more than twice on the question of adoption of a Conference or Free Conference Report and not longer than sixty minutes for the first speech nor longer than thirty minutes for the second speech, unless allowed to do so by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members present and voting. When the pending question is adoption of a Conference or Free Conference Report, the yeas and nays must be taken by roll call and the votes on it must be recorded by name in the Journal. Furthermore, the question of adoption of a Conference or Free Conference Report is subject to the provisions of Rule 8.6.

d.   The time limits set by this rule when a member is speaking are paused and the time allotment does not continue to run during points of order, parliamentary inquires, or other similar motions or circumstances.
That Rule 8.6 of the Rules of the House of Representatives is amended to read:
8.6   The previous question upon any matter may be invoked as follows:

Upon an affirmative vote on a motion for the previous question (fifty percent of those present and voting, a quorum being present, plus five, being required to interrupt debate and a simple majority vote at all other times), the amendments then upon the desk shall be considered, but no further amendments shall be allowed to be offered unless the amendment has at least two thirds of the membership of the House as its sponsor. The proponents of an amendment shall be allowed an opportunity to make a short explanation of his amendment for a period not to exceed three minutes, then opponents to the amendment shall be permitted not more than three minutes to oppose the proposed amendment. Then two hours of debate shall be allowed on the bill, the time being equally divided between opponents and proponents with no person to speak more than ten minutes. Provided, that after the previous question has been invoked, the primary sponsor of an amendment may withdraw it with unanimous consent without making a motion to table it.

Provided, the previous question may be invoked on a motion to reconsider only when the matter to be reconsidered is debatable.

Provided, a motion to adjourn debate shall be in order even though the previous question has been invoked.

Provided, further, any member who has been recognized by the Speaker and is speaking from the podium, is considered to be debating the issue and a call for the previous question, whether by the member or any other member, requires the necessary fifty percent of those present and voting plus five.
The time limits set by this rule when a member is speaking are paused and the time allotment does not continue to run during points of order, parliamentary inquires, or other similar motions or circumstances.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. KING explained the amendment.

Rep. HIOTT raised the Rule. 9.3 Point of Order that Amendment No .1 to H. 5012 (Word version) was not germane to the resolution
Rep. KING argued contra.
The SPEAKER stated that the resolution only affected two issues in the House Rules and Amendment No. 1 went beyond the subject matter of the resolution by attempting to change a part of the House Rules not addressed in the resolution. He sustained the Point of Order and ruled the amendment out of order.

Rep. KING spoke against the Resolution.
Rep. CASKEY spoke in favor of the Resolution.

Rep. BAUER moved to recommit the Resolution to the Committee on Rules.

Rep. HIOTT moved to table the motion.

Rep. GARVIN demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Bailey                   Ballentine               Bannister
Bowers                   Bradley                  Brewer
Brittain                 Bustos                   Calhoon
Caskey                   Chapman                  Collins
Cox                      Crawford                 Davis
Duncan                   Erickson                 Ford
Forrest                  Gagnon                   Gatch
Gibson                   Gilliam                  Gilliard
Guest                    Guffey                   Haddon
Hardee                   Hartnett                 Hartz
Hayes                    Herbkersman              Hewitt
Hiott                    Hixon                    Holman
Jordan                   Landing                  Lawson
Ligon                    Long                     Lowe
McGinnis                 C. Mitchell              Montgomery
T. Moore                 Moss                     Neese
B. Newton                W. Newton                Pedalino
Pope                     Rankin                   Robbins
Schuessler               Sessions                 G. M. Smith
M. M. Smith              Stavrinakis              Teeple
Whitmire                 Wickensimer              Willis
Wooten                   Yow                      

Those who voted in the negative are:

Alexander                Anderson                 Bamberg
Bauer                    Beach                    Bernstein
Burns                    Chumley                  Cromer
Dillard                  Edgerton                 Frank
Garvin                   Gilreath                 Grant
Harris                   Hart                     Henderson-Myers
Hosey                    Huff                     J. L. Johnson
Jones                    King                     Lastinger
Magnuson                 McCabe                   McCravy
McDaniel                 D. Mitchell              Morgan
Reese                    Rivers                   Scott
Weeks                    Wetmore                  White
Williams                                          

So, the motion to recommit the Resolution was tabled.

The SPEAKER granted Rep. WILLIS a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.

Rep. BAMBERG spoke against the Resolution.

Reps. MORGAN, PACE, and CASKEY proposed the following Amendment No. 3 to H. 5012 (Word version) (LC-5012.DG0006H), which was adopted:
Amend the resolution, as and if amended, by striking the text of the second paragraph of Rule 5.19 a. and inserting:

Provided, each bill or joint resolution, prior to receiving second reading, must be explained for a minimum of ten minutes or until all questions from House members are addressed, whichever occurs first. The committee chairman of the committee to which a bill or joint resolution was referred, the committee chairman's designee, the sponsor(s) of the bill or joint resolution, and other members of the House may jointly explain the bill or joint resolution in order to provide the required explanation. If a member accepts questions during the member's speech, either upon the main question of a bill or resolution or upon an amendment or motion to reconsider that is debatable, the member may not refuse questions thereafter. Upon agreeing to accept questions, the member shall spend a reasonable amount of time, at the discretion of the Speaker, answering each member's questions upon the main question of the bill or resolution. Refusal to accept questions after agreeing to do so shall result in the termination of the member's allotted time.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. PACE explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The question recurred to the passage of the Resolution.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Alexander                Anderson                 Bailey
Ballentine               Bannister                Beach
Bernstein                Bowers                   Bradley
Brewer                   Brittain                 Burns
Bustos                   Calhoon                  Caskey
Chapman                  Chumley                  Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter              Collins                  Cox
Crawford                 Cromer                   Davis
Dillard                  Duncan                   Edgerton
Erickson                 Ford                     Forrest
Frank                    Gagnon                   Garvin
Gatch                    Gibson                   Gilliam
Gilliard                 Gilreath                 Govan
Grant                    Guest                    Guffey
Haddon                   Hardee                   Harris
Hartnett                 Hartz                    Hayes
Henderson-Myers          Herbkersman              Hewitt
Hiott                    Hixon                    Holman
Hosey                    Howard                   Huff
J. L. Johnson            Jones                    Jordan
Kilmartin                Kirby                    Landing
Lastinger                Lawson                   Ligon
Long                     Lowe                     Luck
Magnuson                 McCabe                   McCravy
McGinnis                 C. Mitchell              Montgomery
T. Moore                 Morgan                   Moss
Neese                    B. Newton                W. Newton
Oremus                   Pace                     Pedalino
Pope                     Rankin                   Reese
Rivers                   Robbins                  Schuessler
Scott                    Sessions                 G. M. Smith
M. M. Smith              Stavrinakis              Teeple
Weeks                    Wetmore                  White
Whitmire                 Wickensimer              Williams
Wooten                   Yow                      

Those who voted in the negative are:

Bamberg                  Bauer                    Hart
King                                              

So, the Resolution, as amended, was adopted.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4385 (Word version) -- Reps. Jones, B. J. Cox, J. L. Johnson, King, Williams, Rivers, Kirby, Hosey, Clyburn, Bauer, McDaniel, Waters, Dillard, Govan, White, Reese and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 25-11-730 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS SHALL ADOPT CRITERIA FOR ADMISSIONS TO AND DISCHARGES FROM SOUTH CAROLINA VETERANS HOMES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE SUBMISSION OF SUCH CRITERIA.

Rep. DAVIS moved to adjourn debate on the Bill, which was agreed to.

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 287 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Hutto, Grooms, Verdin, Davis, Turner, Gambrell, Hembree, Cromer, Kimbrell, Elliott, Zell, Ott, Garrett, Graham and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-95-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR THE SALE OF ELECTRONIC NICOTINE DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS SECTION; AND TO PROVIDE A TIMELINE FOR THE REQUIRED DEALER CERTIFICATION, DIRECTORY PUBLICATION, AND EFFECTIVE DATE OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS.

The Bill, as amended, was read the third time, and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following Concurrent Resolution was taken up:

H. 4962 (Word version) -- Reps. Cox, J. L. Johnson, McDaniel, Hart, King, Garvin, Luck, Williams, Hosey, Govan, Grant, Weeks, Scott, Jones, Waters, Dillard, Cobb-Hunter, Reese, Rivers, Anderson, M. M. Smith, Holman, Chapman, Caskey, Brewer, Robbins, Lawson, Ford, Gatch, Guest, Bauer, Wickensimer, Collins, T. Moore, Montgomery, Stavrinakis, Kilmartin, Gilliard, Bamberg, Bernstein, Rose, Erickson, J. Moore, Oremus, Guffey, Neese, Teeple, McGinnis, Haddon, Bradley, W. Newton, Forrest, Rutherford, Clyburn, Gagnon, Schuessler, Martin, B. Newton, Bowers and Alexander: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED DESIGN AND LOCATION FOR THE ROBERT SMALLS MONUMENT, AS REQUIRED BY ACT 183 OF 2024, WHICH WAS APPROVED BY THE STATE HOUSE COMMITTEE.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted and sent to the Senate.

Rep. COX moved that the House do now adjourn, which was agreed to.

At 11:41 a.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. GRANT, adjourned in memory of Ryan Buckson II, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.

This web page was last updated on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 3:31 P.M.