NO. 67
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 10:01 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:
Romans 14:12
The Apostle Paul's words are hard-hitting, as he says in Romans: "So each of us will give an account of himself to God."
Let us pray: Is there a single one of us, O God, who is not his or her own harshest critic? It is indeed so hard when the pressures of life are great and we fail to be the leader we think You intend for us to be, and the easy choice, the half-baked decision, sadly becomes our slippery slope. That, Lord, is why, in a time-frame like we currently find ourselves in, when what once seemed like ample opportunity to get things done, the way ahead suddenly seems filled with impossible challenges. So we pray, touch the heart of each Senator and every aide, O God. Grant them the knowledge that, in the things that really matter, those servants who genuinely trust in You can be assured that You will indeed bless them for their faithfulness. In Your precious name we pray, dear Lord. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Climer Cromer Davis Garrett Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Nutt Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.
H. 3309 (Word version)--Reps. G.M. Smith, Gatch, Herbkersman, Pope, B. Newton, Wooten, Robbins, Mitchell, Chapman, W. Newton, Taylor, Forrest, Hewitt, Kirby, Schuessler, Yow, Long, M.M. Smith, Hardee, Montgomery, Atkinson, Hixon, Ligon, Anderson, Weeks, Willis, Govan and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY SECURITY ACT". (Abbreviated title)
The House returned the Bill with amendments.
Senator RANKIN explained the amendments.
Senator MARTIN spoke on the Bill.
Senator DAVIS spoke on the Bill.
Senator BENNETT spoke on the Bill.
Senator MASSEY spoke on the Bill.
Senator CAMSPEN spoke on the Bill.
Senator OTT spoke on the Bill.
Senator DEVINE spoke on the Bill.
The question being concurrence in the House amendments.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Chaplin Climer Cromer Davis Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Matthews Nutt Ott Rankin Reichenbach Sabb Stubbs Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Allen Blackmon Campsen Cash Corbin Devine Martin Massey Peeler Rice Sutton
On motion of Senator RANKIN, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
At 2:49 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate receded from business.
At 3:47 P.M., the Senate resumed.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Campsen Cash Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Initial Appointment, Beaufort County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Larry Weidner II, 2 Wicklow Court, Bluffton, SC 29910 VICE Drew Laughlin
Initial Appointment, Lee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Charles Cottingham Jr., 31 Cattle Drive Lane, Lynchburg, SC 29080
Reappointment, Lee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Shirley C. Davidson, P. O. Box 2, Bishopville, SC 29010
Senator ZELL introduced Dr. Robert Ridgeway, III of Clarendon, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, at 4:13 P.M., Senator GRAHAM was granted a leave of absence until 5:15 P.M.
On motion of Senator TEDDER, at 6:24 P.M., Senator OTT was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
At 7:23 P.M., Senator GROOMS requested a leave of absence for Thursday, May 8, 2025.
On motion of Senator KENNEDY, at 8:04 P.M., Senator DAVIS was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator VERDIN, at 8:04 P.M., Senator GRAMBRELL was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bill:
S. 318 (Word version) Sens. Cromer, Adams and Zell
The following co-sponsor was removed from the respective Bill:
S. 221 (Word version) Sen. Alexander
H. 4215 (Word version) -- Reps. Collins, Bowers, Hiott, Cromer, White, Kilmartin, Gilreath and Beach: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE BRIDGE OVER TWELVE MILE RIVER ON SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 183 IN PICKENS COUNTY "GENERAL ANDREW PICKENS BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.
The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 4242 (Word version) -- Rep. Chumley: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 417 IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY FROM THE ENOREE RIVER TO SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 101 "OLD ANTIOCH CHURCH WAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.
The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
The following were introduced:
S. 661 (Word version) -- Senator Peeler: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE HONORABLE EDWARD GENE ADDINGTON UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS ELEVEN YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 662 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE HISTORIC BALLENGER HOUSE UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 663 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR LYNN STOKES-MURRAY, GOVERNMENT RELATIONS DIRECTOR WITH BURR AND FORMAN, LLC, UPON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT AFTER ALMOST FORTY YEARS OF EXEMPLARY SERVICE, AND TO WISH HER CONTINUED SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 664 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA SPEED SAFETY ACT OF 2025" BY ADDING ARTICLE 12 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES TO EMPLOY SPEED-SAFETY SYSTEMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-70, RELATING TO CERTAIN VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS SUSPENDED DURING STATES OF EMERGENCY, AND DECLARATIONS OF EMERGENCIES TRIGGERING FEDERAL RELIEF, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION CONCERNING THE ISSUANCE OF CITATIONS FOR CERTAIN TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-710, RELATING TO POWERS OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CERTAIN TRAFFIC CITATIONS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 56-7-35, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF UNIFORM TRAFFIC TICKETS FOR CERTAIN OFFENSES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 665 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews, Hutto, Williams, Sabb, Tedder, Ott, Sutton, Devine and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 80 TO TITLE 39 ENTITLED "SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION" SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION AND PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP AND PURPOSE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
S. 672 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE SENECA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS ONE HUNDRED FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND THE CHURCH FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE SENECA COMMUNITY AND THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
H. 3453 (Word version) -- Reps. Rose, Pope, Spann-Wilder and J. Moore: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-111-20, RELATING TO FREE TUITION FOR CERTAIN VETERANS' CHILDREN, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VETERAN'S CHILD QUALIFIES FOR FREE TUITION IF THAT CHILD HAS BEEN A RESIDENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE BIRTH.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 3974 (Word version) -- Reps. Calhoon, Bernstein, Erickson, Schuessler, Bauer, Guffey and McGinnis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 10, TITLE 59 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE EVALUATORS TO EVALUATE PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS FOR HEALTH, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, OR THERAPEUTIC NEEDS, TO AUTHORIZE PRIVATE PROVIDERS TO PROVIDE RELATED SERVICES AT SCHOOLS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY, TO SPECIFY THESE EVALUATIONS AND SERVICES ONLY MAY OCCUR UPON REQUEST OF THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF THE STUDENT, TO PROVIDE SCHOOL DISTRICTS MAY NOT PROHIBIT SUCH EVALUATIONS OR SERVICES IN SCHOOLS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY, TO PROVIDE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL ADOPT A RELATED MODEL POLICY, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MODEL POLICY, TO PROVIDE SCHOOL DISTRICTS SHALL ADOPT RELATED POLICIES, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 4216 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Pope, G. M. Smith, B. Newton, Hiott, Murphy, Moss, Crawford, Bradley, Hager, M. M. Smith, Bustos, Landing, Lowe, Lawson, B. J. Cox, Jordan, Brittain, Forrest, Neese, Vaughan, Long, Montgomery, Davis, Sessions, Mitchell, Gatch, Herbkersman, Schuessler, Caskey, T. Moore, Hewitt, Erickson, Bowers, Gilliam, Teeple, Guest, Bailey, Guffey, Holman, Yow, Ballentine, Martin, Calhoon, Taylor, Hartnett, Robbins, Willis, B. L. Cox, Ligon, Brewer, Gagnon, Hartz, Hixon and Pedalino: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-510, RELATING TO INCOME TAX RATES FOR INDIVIDUALS, ESTATES, AND TRUSTS, SO AS TO REDUCE THE INCOME TAX RATE TO A FLAT 3.99 PERCENT AND TO SET FORTH STANDARDS FOR ADDITIONAL REDUCTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-50, RELATING TO INTERNAL REVENUE CODE SECTIONS SPECIFICALLY NOT ADOPTED BY THE STATE, SO AS TO NOT ADOPT THE FEDERAL STANDARD DEDUCTION AND ITEMIZED DEDUCTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1140, RELATING TO INCOME TAX DEDUCTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR A SOUTH CAROLINA INCOME ADJUSTED DEDUCTION (SCIAD); BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-4910, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED TO FILE A TAX RETURN, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE TO THE CALCULATION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1720, RELATING TO ADJUSTMENTS TO THE TAXABLE INCOME OF NONRESIDENT INDIVIDUALS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
H. 4339 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, Terribile, Bradley, Martin, Huff, Mitchell, Forrest, Anderson, Duncan, Kilmartin, Lawson, Hager, M. M. Smith, Beach, Frank, J. L. Johnson, Gilliam, Rankin, Bauer, Teeple, Pedalino, McCabe, Bustos, Wickensimer, Cobb-Hunter, Vaughan, Haddon, Willis, Long, Chapman, Pace, Caskey, Chumley, Whitmire, Morgan, Magnuson, Gibson, Davis, Edgerton, Hartz, Bernstein, Harris, B. Newton, Hewitt, Waters, Luck, Rivers, Hartnett, B. L. Cox, Reese, Taylor, Bowers, Gagnon, Herbkersman, Jordan, McGinnis, Moss, Spann-Wilder, Weeks, Gilreath, Cromer, Guffey and Pope: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HEALTHY SCHOOLS ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 59-10-325 SO AS TO PROTECT THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF CHILDREN BY PROHIBITING THE USE OF HARMFUL FOOD ADDITIVES IN SCHOOL MEALS, ENSURING INGREDIENT TRANSPARENCY, ESTABLISHING COMPLIANCE PROCEDURES AND ENFORCEMENT MECHANISMS, TO PROVIDE A PERIODIC REVIEW AND POSSIBLE UPDATES OF PROHIBITED ADDITIVES, TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AND TO MAKE RELATED FINDINGS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 4342 (Word version) -- Rep. M. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-15-175, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR RESTRICTED INSTRUCTORS' LICENSES ISSUED BY THE BOARD OF DENTISTRY, SO AS TO REMOVE LIMITATIONS ON CERTAIN CREDENTIALING REQUIREMENTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
H. 4343 (Word version) -- Reps. Wetmore, Erickson, Edgerton, Terribile, Cromer, Schuessler, Crawford, Davis, Calhoon, Oremus, Holman, Pedalino, Bernstein, Cobb-Hunter, Dillard, Bauer, Henderson-Myers, Landing, McDaniel, Waters, Alexander and Spann-Wilder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-31 SO AS TO REQUIRE HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS AND PREVENTION CONTINUING EDUCATION TRAINING FOR LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES, REGISTERED NURSES, OR ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES EXCLUDING CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETISTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-39 SO AS TO REQUIRE HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS AND PREVENTION CONTINUING EDUCATION TRAINING FOR PHYSICIANS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-953 SO AS TO REQUIRE HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS AND PREVENTION CONTINUING EDUCATION TRAINING FOR PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
H. 4444 (Word version) -- Rep. Forrest: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME A ONE-MILE PORTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 378 FROM THE TRAFFIC CIRCLE IN SALUDA COUNTY WEST TOWARDS THE TOWN OF SALUDA "FIREMAN LANDON 'CALE' BODIE MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
H. 4445 (Word version) -- Rep. Forrest: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 391 IN SALUDA COUNTY FROM THE LEXINGTON/SALUDA COUNTY LINE EXTENDING ONE MILE NORTH THE "FIRE CHIEF CHAD SATCHER MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
H. 4446 (Word version) -- Reps. Anderson and Hewitt: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF POWELL ROAD IN GEORGETOWN COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SINGLETON ROAD TO HAROLD ROAD "DEPUTY SHERIFF LEROY GASQUE SR. MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
H. 4478 (Word version) -- Reps. Burns, Hiott, Pope, McGinnis and Haddon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 48-35-50, RELATING TO THE STATE FORESTER PROHIBITING FIRES, SO AS TO REQUIRE NOTICE OF THE PROHIBITION TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIVISION FOR BROADCAST OF THE PROHIBITION ON ALL TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICES WITHIN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
Senator YOUNG from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services submitted a favorable report on:
Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Board of Social Work Examiners, with term coterminous with Governor
Director:
Anthony Catone, P. O. Box 1520, Columbia, SC 29202 VICE: Michael Leach
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3058 (Word version) -- Reps. Wooten, Pope, Spann-Wilder, McCravy, Taylor, Cobb-Hunter, Govan, Erickson, Bradley, Guffey, W. Newton, B. Newton and Willis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-330 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS FOR THE OFFENSE OF INTENTIONALLY DISSEMINATING INTIMATE IMAGES OR DIGITALLY FORGED INTIMATE IMAGES WITHOUT EFFECTIVE CONSENT; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-332 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF INTENTIONALLY DISSEMINATING INTIMATE IMAGES OR DIGITALLY FORGED INTIMATE IMAGES WITHOUT EFFECTIVE CONSENT, TO PROVIDE GRADUATED PENALTIES, AND TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3175 (Word version) -- Reps. Collins, Mitchell, Forrest and Calhoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-1230, RELATING TO SPECIFICATIONS OF LICENSE PLATES, THE PERIODIC ISSUANCE OF NEW PLATES, AND THE ISSUANCE OF REVALIDATION STICKERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES SHALL ISSUE LICENSE PLATES COMMEMORATING THE TWO HUNDRED FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3276 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Robbins, Chapman, W. Newton, Taylor, Forrest, McGinnis, Calhoon, Bernstein, Wooten, Hart, Erickson, Bradley, Ligon, Anderson, Schuessler, Hixon, M.M. Smith and Hartnett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HANDS-FREE AND DISTRACTED DRIVING ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-3890, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL USE OF A WIRELESS ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICE WHILE OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH IT IS UNLAWFUL TO USE A WIRELESS MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICE, TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING AND PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL REVISIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-720, RELATING TO POINTS THAT MAY BE ASSESSED AGAINST A PERSON'S DRIVING RECORD FOR MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A SECOND OR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING IS A TWO-POINT VIOLATION.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3862 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, G.M. Smith, Gilliam, Mitchell and M.M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-50, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL ADMISSIONS PREFERENCES, SO AS TO REVISE CRITERIA FOR ADMISSIONS PREFERENCES, AND TO ADD PROVISIONS CONCERNING STUDENTS WITH MULTIPLE ENROLLMENT PREFERENCES.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3910 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, G.M. Smith and B.J. Cox: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 3-1-150 AND 63-3-510, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OVER CERTAIN LANDS RELINQUISHED BY THE UNITED STATES AND THE EXCLUSIVE ORIGINAL JURISDICTION OF THE FAMILY COURT, RESPECTIVELY, BOTH SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CONCURRENT JURISDICTION WITH THE UNITED STATES IN CERTAIN MATTERS INVOLVING JUVENILES WITHIN A MILITARY INSTALLATION.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 6, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 4026 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025, AND TO ALLOW UNEXPENDED FUNDS APPROPRIATED TO BE CARRIED FORWARD TO SUCCEEDING FISCAL YEARS AND EXPENDED FOR THE SAME PURPOSES.
and has ordered the Concurrent Resolution enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
S. 77 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-85 SO AS TO PROMOTE PUBLIC ACCESS TO SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS BY REQUIRING SCHOOL BOARDS TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES THAT PROVIDE ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF SUCH MEETINGS AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT MUST BE IMPLEMENTED BY JULY 1, 2025.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
S. 77 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-85 SO AS TO PROMOTE PUBLIC ACCESS TO SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS BY REQUIRING SCHOOL BOARDS TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES THAT PROVIDE ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF SUCH MEETINGS AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT MUST BE IMPLEMENTED BY JULY 1, 2025.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, with unanimous consent, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
H. 4025 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2025, TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
S. 79 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1115 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PILOT PROGRAM TO PERMIT PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO HIRE NONCERTIFIED TEACHERS IN A RATIO UP TO TEN PERCENT OF ITS ENTIRE TEACHING STAFF, TO PROVIDE ACADEMIC, EVALUATION, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, TO FURTHER THE PROGRAM FOR ANNUAL PROGRAM REPORTING, AND TO PROVIDE NONCERTIFIED TEACHER REGISTRATION AND CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
S. 79 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1115 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PILOT PROGRAM TO PERMIT PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO HIRE NONCERTIFIED TEACHERS IN A RATIO UP TO TEN PERCENT OF ITS ENTIRE TEACHING STAFF, TO PROVIDE ACADEMIC, EVALUATION, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, TO FURTHER THE PROGRAM FOR ANNUAL PROGRAM REPORTING, AND TO PROVIDE NONCERTIFIED TEACHER REGISTRATION AND CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, with unanimous consent, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
S. 221 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA KRATOM CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 20 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION OF THE SALE OF KRATOM PRODUCTS BY RETAILERS AND PROCESSORS AND TO CREATE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE ARTICLE.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
S. 221 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA KRATOM CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 20 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION OF THE SALE OF KRATOM PRODUCTS BY RETAILERS AND PROCESSORS AND TO CREATE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE ARTICLE.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator OTT explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator OTT, with unanimous consent, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
H. 3127 (Word version) -- Reps. Robbins, Wooten, Lawson, Pope, Chapman, Pedalino, W. Newton, Sanders, Duncan, Hixon, Taylor, Gagnon, Oremus, Hartz, Davis, M.M. Smith, Vaughan, Williams, Erickson, Bradley, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-750, RELATING TO FAILURE TO STOP MOTOR VEHICLES WHEN SIGNALED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WHERE CERTAIN AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES OCCUR THE OFFENDER IS GUILTY OF A FELONY, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Senate agreed to waive the provisions of Rule 32A requiring the Bill to be printed on the Calendar.
The Bill was ordered placed in the category of Bills Returned from the House and would be taken up for consideration when that category was reached in the order of the day.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
H. 3127 (Word version) -- Reps. Robbins, Wooten, Lawson, Pope, Chapman, Pedalino, W. Newton, Sanders, Duncan, Hixon, Taylor, Gagnon, Oremus, Hartz, Davis, M.M. Smith, Vaughan, Williams, Erickson, Bradley, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-750, RELATING TO FAILURE TO STOP MOTOR VEHICLES WHEN SIGNALED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WHERE CERTAIN AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES OCCUR THE OFFENDER IS GUILTY OF A FELONY, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator ADAMS, with unanimous consent, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2025
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
H. 3430 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Murphy, Caskey, Mitchell, Pope, W. Newton, Bannister, Sessions, Jordan, Robbins, Collins, Martin, Lawson, Wickensimer, Landing, Long, Hiott, Forrest, Sanders, Teeple, Oremus, Hartz, Guest, Pedalino, M.M. Smith, Schuessler, Chapman, Gatch, McGinnis, Neese, Hardee, Ligon, Taylor, Willis, Vaughan, Brittain, Erickson, Bradley, Rankin, Hager, Whitmire, Gilliam, Crawford, Hewitt, Yow, Hixon, Ballentine, Gagnon and Brewer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 11-7-70 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT THE STATE AUDITOR WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-240, RELATING TO REMOVAL OF OFFICERS BY THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO ADD THE STATE AUDITOR; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 11-7-10 RELATING TO THE SELECTION OF THE STATE AUDITOR.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to waive the provisions of Rule 32A requiring the Bill to be printed on the Calendar.
The Bill was ordered placed in the category of Bills Returned from the House and would be taken up for consideration when that category was reached in the order of the day.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
H. 3430 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Murphy, Caskey, Mitchell, Pope, W. Newton, Bannister, Sessions, Jordan, Robbins, Collins, Martin, Lawson, Wickensimer, Landing, Long, Hiott, Forrest, Sanders, Teeple, Oremus, Hartz, Guest, Pedalino, M.M. Smith, Schuessler, Chapman, Gatch, McGinnis, Neese, Hardee, Ligon, Taylor, Willis, Vaughan, Brittain, Erickson, Bradley, Rankin, Hager, Whitmire, Gilliam, Crawford, Hewitt, Yow, Hixon, Ballentine, Gagnon and Brewer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 11-7-70 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT THE STATE AUDITOR WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-240, RELATING TO REMOVAL OF OFFICERS BY THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO ADD THE STATE AUDITOR; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 11-7-10 RELATING TO THE SELECTION OF THE STATE AUDITOR.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senators MASSEY and JOHNSON explained the amendments.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
Walker
Allen
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
I was away from the Senate Chamber when the vote on H. 3430 occurred due to a constituent matter. Had I been present, I would have voted for the Bill.
S. 510 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE APRIL 2025 AS "OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY MONTH" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 614 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME HOLLY HALL ROAD IN BEAUFORT COUNTY "REVEREND JEANNINE R. SMALLS ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 616 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews and Hutto: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SC 46 FROM S-97 (EPPS AVENUE) TO I-95 IN JASPER COUNTY "MAYOR BRONCO BOSTICK HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 617 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE SHAWS CREEK BRIDGE ON US 1 IN AIKEN COUNTY AS THE "VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 620 (Word version) -- Senator Corbin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE STRETCH OF HIGHWAY 276 AT 35º5'30" N BY 82º36'53" W IN GREENVILLE COUNTY "ALAMO COVE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 625 (Word version) -- Senators Chaplin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF SC 340 AND I-20 IN DARLINGTON COUNTY "GOVERNOR DAVID M. BEASLEY INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 627 (Word version) -- Senators Chaplin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE LAKE PRESTWOOD BRIDGE IN DARLINGTON COUNTY "SPEAKER JAY LUCAS BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:
H. 3973 (Word version) -- Rep. Bannister: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 432 OF 1947, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE GREENVILLE HEALTH SYSTEM BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO REVISE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES' DISTRICTS CONSTITUTING THE DISTRICTS WHICH COMPRISE HOUSE DISTRICT RESIDENCY SEATS ON THE BOARD.
On motion of Senator ELLIOTT.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:
H. 4003 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughan, Willis, Burns, B.J. Cox and Bannister: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 1543 OF 1968, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE GREATER GREENVILLE SANITATION DISTRICT TO CONTRACT TO PROVIDE SANITATION SERVICES TO THIRD PARTIES NOT WITHIN THE DISTRICT, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THIS AUTHORITY, TO ELIMINATE THE AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSION TO CHARGE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE WITHIN THE DISTRICT, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION ONLY MAY CHARGE A SANITATION FEE, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION SHALL RETIRE ALL GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION ONLY MAY ISSUE REVENUE BONDS, TO EXEMPT EXISTING CONTRACTS, AND TO PROVIDE EXISTING CONTRACTS MAY NOT BE RENEWED OR EXTENDED.
On motion of Senator ELLIOTT.
The following Bills were read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:
H. 3877 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Rankin and Willis: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 779 OF 1988, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 56, SO AS TO REAPPORTION THE SEVEN SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 56 BOARD OF TRUSTEES MUST BE ELECTED, TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS ARE DELINEATED, AND TO PROVIDE DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE REAPPORTIONED ELECTION DISTRICTS.
On motion of Senator VERDIN.
H. 3878 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Rankin and Willis: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 779 OF 1988, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 55, SO AS TO REAPPORTION THE SEVEN SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 55 BOARD OF TRUSTEES MUST BE ELECTED, TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS ARE DELINEATED, AND TO PROVIDE DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE REAPPORTIONED ELECTION DISTRICTS.
On motion of Senator VERDIN.
H. 3969 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford, Ballentine, Bauer, Bernstein, Garvin, Grant, Hart, Howard, J.L. Johnson, McDaniel, Reese and Rose: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF PERSONAL DELIVERY DEVICES IN RICHLAND COUNTY.
On motion of Senator WALKER.
On motion of Senator WALKER, H. 3969 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
S. 526 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 48-39-280, RELATING TO BEACH PRESERVATION APPEALS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES, SO AS TO STAY ANY ENFORCEMENT ACTION DURING THE PENDENCY OF THE APPEAL AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE AGENCY WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS TO THE APPELLANT IF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE REVERSES THE DECISION OF THE AGENCY.
S. 399 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott, Hembree, Reichenbach and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-635 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO, WITHOUT LEGAL CAUSE OR GOOD EXCUSE, ENTERS A TRANSPORTATION FACILITY, INCLUDING ANY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AND ANY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM, AFTER HAVING BEEN WARNED NOT TO DO SO BY THE TRANSIT DIRECTOR OR HIS DESIGNEE, IS GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR TRIABLE IN A MUNICIPAL OR MAGISTRATES COURT, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR A WRITTEN WARNING AND FOR APPEALING THE WARNING, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION MUST BE CONSTRUED AS IN ADDITION TO, AND NOT AS SUPERSEDING, ANOTHER STATUTE RELATING TO TRESPASS OR UNLAWFUL ENTRY ON LANDS OF ANOTHER.
S. 369 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-10, RELATING TO STATE COMMODITY CODE DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE STATE COMMODITY CODE BE THE SOUTH CAROLINA ATTORNEY GENERAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-40, RELATING TO TRANSACTIONS WHERE PROHIBITION IS NOT APPLICABLE, SO AS TO ADD AN AGENT OR INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE AS INDIVIDUALS SUBJECT TO AN ORDER TO DENY, SUSPEND, OR REVOKE A PERSON'S LICENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-60, RELATING TO PROHIBITED ACTS, SO AS TO REPLACE SECTION 39-73-310 WITH SECTION 39-73-30; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-80, RELATING TO STATE SECURITIES LAWS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-315, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATOR ACTIONS TO PREVENT VIOLATIONS OR IMMINENT VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR CAN ISSUE AN ORDER RELATED TO ANY ACTION THAT MAY VIOLATE THIS CHAPTER; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-320, RELATING TO LEGAL, EQUITABLE, AND SPECIAL REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO A COURT FOR ENFORCEMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY MAINTAIN AN ACTION IN THE RICHLAND COUNTY COURT OF COMMON PLEAS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-325, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY REFER VIOLATIONS TO THE APPROPRIATE DIVISION OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE OR OTHER AUTHORITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-330, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS CHAPTER, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-340, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, FORMS, AND ORDERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-350, RELATING TO THE APPLICABILITY OF SECTIONS 39-73-20, 39-73-50, AND 39-73-60 TO PERSONS WHO SELL, BUY, OR OFFER TO SELL OR BUY COMMODITIES IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR APPLICABLE RADIO AND TELEVISION COMMUNICATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-360, RELATING TO JUDICIAL REVIEW, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-370, RELATING TO DEFENSE IN A CASE BASED ON FAILURE TO MAKE PHYSICAL DELIVERY, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-375 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL MAY RETAIN FUNDS FROM FINES AND PENALTIES TO OFFSET RELEVANT EXPENSES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-400 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY OF THIS CHAPTER; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 39-73-355 RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS.
Senators CLIMER and BENNETT desired to be recorded as voting to abstain on third reading of the Bill.
H. 3222 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey and Chapman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-9-145, RELATING TO LITTER CONTROL OFFICERS, SO AS TO REVISE THE MEANS FOR DETERMINING THE LIMIT ON THE NUMBER OF LITTER CONTROL OFFICERS THAT A COUNTY MAY APPOINT AND COMMISSION, AND TO CORRECT AN INCORRECT REFERENCE.
Senator GROOMS proposed the following amendment (SR-3222.KM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Section 11-7-10 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 11-7-10. The State Fiscal Accountability Authority shall select the State Auditor, who shall select necessary assistants in conformity with the appropriations for the office. (A) There is established the Department of Governmental Auditing headed by the State Auditor. The State Auditor must be selected without regard to political affiliation and on the basis of integrity, capability for strong leadership, and demonstrated ability in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, law, management analysis, public administration, investigation, criminal justice administration, or other closely related fields.
(B) The State Auditor shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate for a term of six years. The State Auditor's term shall commence on July first of the appointing year and expire on June thirtieth of the ending year. The State Auditor may be removed from office pursuant to Section 1-3-240(C). The Governor may reappoint the State Auditor for additional terms. The State Auditor may serve in a holdover capacity for a maximum of seven months past the expiration of their term.
(C) The State Auditor's annual compensation shall be set by the Agency Head Salary Commission and shall not be reduced during their term of office. The State Auditor shall receive compensation as established under the provisions of Section 8-11-160 and for which funds have been authorized in the general appropriations act.
(D) The State Auditor shall employ a staff comprised of deputy auditors, accountants, and other professional staff necessary to carry out the duties of the department as authorized by law. The deputy auditors and all employees of the department who report directly to a deputy auditor serve at will and may be removed by the State Auditor. The Department of Administration's Division of State Human Resources, in consultation with the State Auditor, shall establish appropriate classifications or unclassified position titles within each position category along with a salary range commensurate with the level of responsibility and duties of the position for the deputy auditors and all employees of the Department of Governmental Auditing who report directly to a deputy auditor. The State Auditor shall fix the salaries of all staff subject to the funds authorized in the annual appropriations act and in accordance with the position categories established pursuant to this paragraph of the state's existing uniform classification and compensation plan as is appropriate. Deputy auditors and all employees of the Department of Governmental Auditing who report directly to a deputy auditor shall not be subject to the limitations of Section 8-11-165(B). The State Auditor shall provide requisite training and professional development pursuant to Section 8-15-60. All classified or unclassified personnel employed by the divisions, programs, services, or initiatives of the Office of the State Auditor, either by contract or by employment at will, become on the effective date of the act, employees of the Department of Governmental Auditing, with the same compensation, classification, and grade level, as applicable, subject to and until such time as the State Auditor acts to employ the staff and fix the salaries as provided for in this section.
(E) The Department of Administration shall provide administrative support to the Department of Governmental Auditing for the performance of its duties including, but not limited to, information technology, shared services support, and logistical support. In a manner to be determined by the Department of Administration, the Department of Governmental Auditing shall reimburse the Department of Administration for personnel and operating expenses relating to the provision of administrative support pursuant to this section.
SECTION 2. Section 11-7-20 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 11-7-20. (A) All state agencies and entities supported partially or entirely by public funds are subject to audit by or under the oversight of the State Auditor, except as otherwise specifically provided by law. The State Auditor, to the extent practicable and consistent with his overall responsibility, shall audit or cause to be audited each state agency and entity annually. These audits shall be made to assist in furnishing for the purpose of providing the General Assembly, the Governor, the executive departments and agencies of the State, the governing bodies and executive departments of the political subdivisions of the State, all state entities, and the public with an independent evaluation of whether public funds are managed according to the applicable financial reporting framework and may include an independent evaluation of public program performance.
(B) Annually the State Auditor shall audit or cause to be audited the state's basic financial statements prepared by the Comptroller General of South Carolina.
(C) The State Auditor shall examine as often the State Auditor deems appropriate the accounts kept by the State Treasurer, and if the auditor discovers any irregularity or deficiency in the accounts, unless the irregularity or deficiency is rectified or explained to the State Auditor's satisfaction, report it in writing to the General Assembly and provide a copy of the report to the Governor and Attorney General. In addition to regular audits, the State Auditor shall audit the State Treasurer's records at the time a new State Treasurer assumes office and the State Treasurer shall assume responsibility for the balances in the accounts, as determined by the audit. The State Auditor shall audit the State Treasurer's records at the end of the State Treasurer's term of office or at the time the State Treasurer leaves office to determine that the accounts are in order.
(D) The State Auditor may examine the accounts and records of any bank or financial institution relating to transactions with the State Treasurer, or with any state agency. The State Auditor may require banks or financial institutions doing business with the State to provide the State Auditor information relating to transactions with the State Treasurer or any state agency.
(E) The State Auditor shall provide a report to the Governor and Attorney General, and other appropriate officials, of facts in the State Auditor's possession that pertain to the apparent violation of criminal statutes or apparent instances of malfeasance, misfeasance, or nonfeasance by an officer or employee. In the event the State Auditor identifies instances of fraud, waste, and abuse during any state agency audit, the State Auditor shall refer such instances to the State Inspector General for examination. If the Governor or Attorney General is the subject of the report, the report shall be made to the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, the Office of the Inspector General, and other appropriate officials.
(C) (F) Annually the State Auditor shall audit or cause to be audited the compliance of the State of South Carolina with the U. S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-133 Compliance Supplement Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) or its successor as applicable to major federal programs.
(D) (G) Audits must be conducted in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America; the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States; and OMB Circular A-133, the Uniform Guidance, Audits of States, Local Governments, and Nonprofit Organizations, or its successor.
(H) The State Auditor shall, in the reports of audits, make any comments, suggestions, or recommendations the auditor deems appropriate concerning any aspect of the state agency's activities and operations.
(I) The State Auditor shall cooperate, act, and function with other audit or evaluation organizations in the State, with appropriate councils or committees of other states, with governing bodies of the political subdivisions of the State, and with federal agencies in an effort to maximize the extent of intergovernmental audit coordination and thereby avoid unnecessary duplication and expense of audit effort. Nothing in this section shall be construed to give the State Auditor control over the internal auditors of any agency, except those statutorily required in Section 57-1-360.
SECTION 3. Section 11-7-25 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 11-7-25. Division of Local Government Services
(A) The department shall include a Division of Local Government Services headed by a deputy auditor.
(B) The division To the extent practicable and consistent with his overall responsibility, the State Auditor periodically shall periodically audit or cause to be audited the financial records of the county treasurers, municipal treasurers, county clerks of court, magistrates, and municipal courts to report if whether fines and assessments imposed pursuant to Sections 14-1-205 through 14-1-208 are collected properly and remitted to the State Treasurer.
(C) Upon the issuance of an audit report, the State Auditor immediately shall notify the State Treasurer, Division of Court Administration, and the chief administrator of the affected agency, department, county, or municipality. Such audit reports shall also be made available to the State Inspector General pursuant to Section 1-6-50 and to the Legislative Audit Council pursuant to Section 2-15-50.
(D) The Division of Local Government Services may use funds appropriated to the department for innovative audit, accounting, or local government assistance services that improve the quality or increase the range of services offered to local governments to accomplish accurate, efficient, and transparent financial reporting.
SECTION 4. Section 11-7-30 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 11-7-30. Reports of audit findings must be available to the Governor, State Fiscal Accountability Authority, General Assembly, and the general public. The State Auditor shall notify the Governor, the General Assembly, and the State Fiscal Accountability Authority immediately upon the issuance of an audit report. Such audit reports shall also be made available to the State Inspector General pursuant to Section 1-6-50 and to the Legislative Audit Council pursuant to Section 2-15-50.
SECTION 5. Section 11-7-55 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 11-7-55. The State Auditor may obtain the services of independent public accountants as he considers necessary to carry out his duties and responsibilities. The State Auditor may use funds appropriated for personal services to contract with private firms, using a request for proposals, to perform audits. Notwithstanding this section, the State Auditor maintains sole responsibility for the audit of the state's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report prepared by the Comptroller General's Office.
SECTION 6. Section 11-7-60 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 11-7-60. (A) Each State agency shall remit to the State Auditor an amount representing an equitable portion of the expense of contracting with a certified public accounting firm to conduct a portion of the audit of the state's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report Annual Comprehensive Financial Report prepared by the Comptroller General's Office. Each state agency's equitable portion of the expense must be determined by a schedule developed by the State Auditor. The remittance must be based upon invoices provided by the State Auditor upon completion of the annual audit. The audit must be rebid using a request for proposals no less frequently than every five years.
(B) The auditor shall, through appropriate tests, satisfy himself or herself concerning the propriety of the data presented in the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and shall express the appropriate auditor's opinion in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards.
SECTION 7. Section 1-3-240(C) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(C)(1) Persons appointed to the following offices of the State may be removed by the Governor for malfeasance, misfeasance, incompetency, absenteeism, conflicts of interest, misconduct, persistent neglect of duty in office, or incapacity:
(a) Workers' Compensation Commission;
(b) [Reserved] State Auditor;
(c) Ethics Commission;
(d) Election Commission;
(e) Professional and Occupational Licensing Boards;
(f) Juvenile Parole Board;
(g) Probation, Parole and Pardon Board;
(h) Director of the Department of Public Safety;
(i) Board of the Department of Health and Environmental Control, excepting the chairman;
(j) Chief of State Law Enforcement Division;
(k) South Carolina Lottery Commission;
(l) Executive Director of the Office of Regulatory Staff;
(m) Directors of the South Carolina Public Service Authority appointed pursuant to Section 58-31-20;
(n) State Ports Authority;
(o) State Inspector General;
(p) State Adjutant General;
(q) South Carolina Retirement Investment Commission members appointed by the Governor or members of the General Assembly; and
(r) South Carolina Public Benefit Authority members.
(2) Upon the expiration of an officeholder's term, the individual may continue to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
SECTION 8. On the effective date of this act, the interim State Auditor selected by the State Fiscal Accountability Authority shall continue in office in a holdover capacity until the Governor appoints a State Auditor as provided in this act. The interim State Auditor serving in holdover capacity shall be eligible for appointment by the Governor. A vacancy shall be filled in the same manner as appointment.
SECTION 9. Section 1-11-20(F) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(F) The State Auditor is transferred to, and incorporated into, the State Fiscal Accountability Authority. [Reserved]
SECTION 10. Section 4-9-150 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 4-9-150. The council shall provide for an independent annual audit of all financial records and transactions of the county and any agency funded in whole by county funds and may provide for more frequent audits as it considers necessary. Special audits may be provided for any agency receiving county funds as the county governing body considers necessary. The audits must be made by a certified public accountant or public accountant or firm of these accountants who have no personal interest, direct or indirect, in the fiscal affairs of the county government or any of its officers. The council may, without requiring competitive bids, designate the accountant or firm annually or for a period not exceeding three years. The designation for any particular fiscal year must be made no later than thirty days after the beginning of the fiscal year. The report of the audit must be made available for public inspection. A copy of the report of the audit must be submitted to the State Treasurer Department of Governmental Auditing no later than January first each year following the close of the books of the previous fiscal year. Upon a showing of proper cause, as determined by the State Treasurer department, the State Treasurerdepartment shall grant a county an extension of ninety days. To be considered, a request for extension must be signed by the chair of the council before the deadline for filing.
If the report is not filed with the State Treasurer department by January first, or within the time extended for filing the report, the department shall notify funds distributed by the State Treasurer to withhold funds to the county in the current fiscal year must be withheld pending receipt of a copy of the report. The department shall post these audits in a conspicuous place on its website.
SECTION 11. Section 5-7-240(C) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(C) The audit or compilation must be performed by an independent certified public accountant or a firm of certified public accountants. The report of the audit or compilation shall be made available for public inspection, and a copy must be provided to the Department of Governmental Auditing. Financial statements of municipalities with a court system must include the requirements of Section 14-1-208. The department shall post these audits and compilations of financial statements in a conspicuous place on its website.
A municipality that exceeds the threshold in the current fiscal year but was below the threshold in the previous fiscal year must begin submitting audited financial statements annually beginning no later than the fiscal year following the year in which its total revenues exceed the threshold.
SECTION 12. Section 14-1-208(E) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(E) To ensure that fines and assessments imposed pursuant to this section and Section 14-1-209(A) are properly collected and remitted to the State Treasurer, the audit or compilation performed for each municipality pursuant to Section 5-7-240 must include a Uniform Supplemental Schedule Form detailing all fines and assessments collected at the court level, the amount remitted to the municipal treasurer, and the amount remitted to the State Treasurer.
(1) To the extent that records are made available in the format determined pursuant to subsection (E)(4), the Uniform Supplemental Schedule Form developed by the Office of the Attorney General, South Carolina Crime Victim Services Division, must be used by all counties and municipalities to report their crime victim services funds and must include the following elements:
(a) all fines collected by the clerk of court for the municipal court;
(b) all assessments collected by the clerk of court for the municipal court;
(c) the amount of fines retained by the municipal treasurer;
(d) the amount of assessments retained by the municipal treasurer;
(e) the amount of fines and assessments remitted to the State Treasurer pursuant to this section; and
(f) the total funds, by source, allocated to victim services activities, how those funds were expended, and any balances carried forward.
(2) For municipalities required to provide for an annual audit of financial statements pursuant to Section 5-7-240, the Uniform Supplemental Schedule Form must be included in the external auditor's report as required by generally accepted auditing standards when information accompanies the basic financial statements in auditor submitted documents.
(3) For municipalities allowed to provide for a compilation of financial statements pursuant to Section 5-7-240, the Uniform Supplement Schedule Form must be included in the compilation report as supplemental information. In addition, the municipality is required to engage the external accountant to perform agreed upon procedures related to the supplemental schedule as established annually by the Office of the State Treasurer and approved by the Office of the State Auditor.
(4) Within thirty days of issuance of the audited or compiled financial statement, the municipality must submit to the State Treasurer Department of Governmental Auditing a copy of the audited or compiled financial statement and a statement of the actual cost associated with the preparation of the Uniform Supplemental Schedule Form required in this section and, if applicable, the agreed upon procedures. Upon submission to the State Treasurer department, the municipality may retain and pay from the fines and assessments collected pursuant to this section the actual expense charged by the external auditor or accountant associated with the Uniform Supplemental Schedule Form required in this subsection, not to exceed two thousand dollars each year.
(5) The clerk of court and municipal treasurer shall keep records of fines and assessments required to be reviewed pursuant to this subsection in the format determined by the municipal governing body and make those records available for review.
SECTION 13. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GROOMS explained the amendment.
Senator MATTHEWS raised a Point of Order under Rule 24A that the amendment was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the Bill.
Senator GROOMS spoke on the Point of Order.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, the Point of Order was withdrawn.
Senator GROOMS continued speaking on the amendment.
The question being the adoption of the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
S. 383 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Goldfinch, Graham, Zell and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PROTHONOTARY WARBLER RECOGNITION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-613 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE PROTHONOTARY WARBLER (PROTONOTARIA CITREA) AS THE OFFICIAL STATE MIGRATORY BIRD OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
S. 449 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-43-245 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHARMACISTS AND PHYSICIANS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PHYSICIANS AND MISCELLANEOUS HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-205 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHYSICIANS AND PHARMACISTS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY AND THE STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS AND TO PROVIDE THAT COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS MAY NOT BE IMPLEMENTED UNTIL AFTER THE REGULATIONS ARE EFFECTIVE.
S. 477 (Word version) -- Senators Davis and Ott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-210, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF A "SELF-ADMINISTERED HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVE" IN THE PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-230, RELATING TO PHARMACISTS PERMITTED TO DISPENSE SELF-ADMINISTERED HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, SO AS TO PROVIDE SUCH DISPENSATIONS MAY BE MADE PURSUANT TO CERTAIN WRITTEN JOINT PROTOCOLS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-240, RELATING TO WRITTEN JOINT PROTOCOLS BY THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS AND THE BOARD OF PHARMACY TO AUTHORIZE PHARMACISTS TO DISPENSE SELF-ADMINISTERED HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES WITHOUT PATIENT-SPECIFIC WRITTEN ORDERS, SO AS TO INSTEAD PROVIDE THE DISPENSATIONS MAY BE MADE UNDER STANDING ORDERS OR WITHOUT STANDING ORDERS WHEN DISPENSED OR ADMINISTERED PURSUANT TO CERTAIN WRITTEN JOINT PROTOCOLS.
S. 585 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder, Adams, Devine, Zell and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SAFEGUARDING AMERICAN FAMILIES EVERYWHERE (SAFE) ACT" AND BY ADDING SECTION 56-3-125 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPLICATIONS FOR MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS MUST INCLUDE LANGUAGE ALLOWING APPLICANTS TO VOLUNTARILY INDICATE THEY OR THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CERTAIN DISABILITIES OR DISORDERS, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO INCLUDE THE DESIGNATION "SAFE" IN THE MOTOR VEHICLE'S RECORDS.
The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:
H. 3632 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, Spann-Wilder and Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-149-15, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL LIFE SCHOLARSHIP STIPENDS, AND SECTION 59-104-25, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIP STIPENDS, BOTH SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN COURSEWORK IN ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS STATISTICS MUST COUNT TOWARDS CERTAIN REQUIRED FRESHMAN YEAR COURSEWORK IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE, AND TO CLARIFY THESE PROVISIONS APPLY BEGINNING WITH ACCOUNTING MAJORS WHO COMPLETED SUCH COURSEWORK AS FRESHMEN IN THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
H. 3752 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Lawson, Pope, Mitchell, Guffey, Oremus, Brewer, Chapman, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox, W. Newton and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOCIAL WORK INTERSTATE COMPACT ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 63, TITLE 40 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSE, FUNCTIONS, OPERATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE COMPACT; BY ADDING SECTION 40-63-32 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPLICANTS FOR INITIAL LICENSURE AS A SOCIAL WORKER SHALL UNDERGO CERTAIN CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECKS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONFIDENTIALITY AND PERMITTED USES OF THE RESULTS OF THESE CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECKS; AND TO DESIGNATE THE EXISTING PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 63, TITLE 40 AS ARTICLE 1, ENTITLED "GENERAL PROVISIONS."
The following Bills were read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:
H. 4067 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, Sessions, Forrest and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-268 SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL HOSPITALS WITH EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS TO HAVE AT LEAST ONE PHYSICIAN PHYSICALLY PRESENT ON SITE WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT AT ALL TIMES THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IS OPEN.
H. 4261 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, J. Moore, Rivers and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-320 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER AS "BLOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH."
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
H. 3292 (Word version) -- Reps. Hixon, Pedalino, W. Newton, Forrest, B.L. Cox, Erickson, Taylor, Hartz, Atkinson and Pace: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-2-105, RELATING TO GOLF CART PERMITS AND THE OPERATION OF GOLF CARTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN MUNICIPALITIES AND COUNTIES MAY ENACT ORDINANCES TO ALLOW GOLF CARTS TO OPERATE IN DESIGNATED AREAS WITHIN THEIR JURISDICTIONS AT NIGHT.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
Senators STUBBS and MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SR-3292.CEM0005S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 56-2-90(C), by adding an item to read:
(4) not require proof of property ownership or proof of long-term rental agreement within the municipality or a county within its unincorporated portions as a requirement in which to receive a decal to operate a golf cart within its limits.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator STUBBS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-3292.MW0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 56-2-90(B)(2) and inserting:
(2) proof of liability insurance in conformance with Section 38-77-140; and
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-3292.MW0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 56-2-90, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) Each golf cart passenger that is under the age of twelve years old, when it is being operated on the public streets and highways of this State, must wear a fastened safety belt.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Matthews Nutt Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Massey
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:
H. 4296 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell, Gilliam, Yow and T. Moore: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-90, RELATING TO SERVICE WITHIN THE STATE OF MILITARY FORCES FROM ANOTHER STATE, SO AS TO REMOVE A REFERENCE TO THE UNITED STATES ARMY; BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-510, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD APPOINTMENTS, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN AGE REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-1330, RELATING TO ANNUAL SETTLEMENTS FOR FEDERAL AND STATE PROPERTY, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO FEDERAL PROPERTY; BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-1370, RELATING TO ALLOWANCES FOR MAINTENANCE, SO AS TO REMOVE A REQUIREMENT THAT UNITS ARE ENTITLED TO CERTAIN MAINTENANCE FUND ALLOWANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 42-7-40, RELATING TO APPLICATION TO THE STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER PERSONS CALLED INTO ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 42-7-65, RELATING TO AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGES DESIGNATED FOR CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF EMPLOYEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER PERSONS CALLED INTO ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 42-7-75, RELATING TO STATE AGENCIES' REQUIREMENT TO PAY WORKERS' COMPENSATION PREMIUMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADJUTANT GENERAL MAY USE CERTAIN METHODS FOR PAYING WORKERS' COMPENSATION PREMIUMS IN CERTAIN CASES; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-360 RELATING TO RULES AND REGULATIONS; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-380 RELATING TO THE ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL FOR ARMY; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-390 RELATING TO THE ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL FOR AIR; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-410 RELATING TO AUDITS AND ALLOWANCES OF DEPARTMENT EXPENSES; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-560 RELATING TO PUBLICATIONS OF RELATIVE RANK LIST OF OFFICERS; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-580 RELATING TO OFFICERS IN COMMAND OF SUBORDINATE OR DETACHED UNITS OR DIFFERENT UNITS ON DUTY TOGETHER; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-810 RELATING TO PROMOTIONS UNDER THE FEDERAL PERSONNEL ACT; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-830 RELATING TO OFFICER SELECTION BOARDS; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-860 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN STAFF OF HEADQUARTERS AND HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-870 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF MAJOR GENERAL; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-880 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF BRIGADIER GENERAL; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-890 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF COLONEL; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-930 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF WARRANT OFFICER; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-1350 RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR SHARING IN APPROPRIATIONS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-3105 RELATING TO MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY FORCES TO SERVE AT THE PLEASURE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The question being the third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered enrolled for Ratification.
The following Bills and Resolution were read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:
H. 4307 (Word version) -- Rep. B. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-350, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN LANCASTER COUNTY, SO AS TO COMBINE CERTAIN PRECINCTS AND REDESIGNATE MAP NUMBERS ON WHICH THESE PRECINCTS ARE DESIGNATED.
H. 4402 (Word version) -- Rep. Herbkersman: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE PROVISION IN SECTION 58-3-20(C) THAT PROHIBITS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM HOLDING AN ELECTION UNTIL A FINAL DETERMINATION IS MADE BY THE COURTS REGARDING ITS REVIEW OF CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS FOR CALENDAR YEARS 2025 AND 2026; AND TO SUSPEND SECTION 2-20-15 FOR ELECTIONS BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION DURING CALENDAR YEARS 2025 AND 2026.
H. 4350 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman, W. Newton, Hager, Rivers, Erickson and Bradley: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-110, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN BEAUFORT COUNTY, SO AS TO SPLIT CERTAIN PRECINCTS AND TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED.
H. 3650 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, Wooten, Pope, Chapman, W. Newton, Bailey, Robbins, Crawford, Guest, Caskey, Forrest, B. Newton, Hixon and Taylor: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-1-60, RELATING TO OFFENSES DEFINED AS VIOLENT CRIMES, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE OFFENSE OF DISCHARGING FIREARMS AT OR INTO A DWELLING HOUSE, OTHER BUILDING, STRUCTURE, ENCLOSURE, VEHICLE, AIRCRAFT, WATERCRAFT, OR OTHER CONVEYANCE, DEVICE, OR EQUIPMENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-440, RELATING TO DISCHARGING FIREARMS INTO A DWELLING HOUSE, OTHER BUILDING, STRUCTURE, ENCLOSURE, VEHICLE, AIRCRAFT, WATERCRAFT, OR OTHER CONVEYANCE, DEVICE, OR EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO CREATE A TIERED PENALTY STRUCTURE.
Senator CORBIN objected to consideration of the Bill.
S. 594 (Word version) -- Family and Veterans' Services Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION REGULATION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, RELATING TO REGULATIONS FOR THE LICENSING OF CHILD CARE CENTERS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5314, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
Senator YOUNG asked unanimous consent to commit the Resolution to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
S. 602 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION REGULATION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, RELATING TO FEE SCHEDULES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5348, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
Senator MASSEY asked unanimous consent to commit the Resolution to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
S. 603 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION REGULATION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - STATE BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY, RELATING TO STATE BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5309, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
Senator MASSEY asked unanimous consent to commit the Resolution to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
S. 604 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION REGULATION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - SOUTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF FUNERAL SERVICE, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF FUNERAL SERVICE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5335, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
Senator MASSEY asked unanimous consent to commit the Resolution to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
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.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.
H. 3569 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Pope, Davis, Cobb-Hunter, Wetmore, Henderson-Myers, Erickson, Rivers and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-40-350 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTIAL TENANTS WHO ARE VICTIMS OF CERTAIN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENSES MAY TERMINATE A RENTAL AGREEMENT AND TO PROVIDE FOR NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS.
Senator TURNER objected to consideration of the Bill.
S. 256 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA COMMERCIAL PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN ENERGY AND RESILIENCE ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 39 TO TITLE 6 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, CREATE AND ESTABLISH THE PROGRAM, PROVIDE FOR APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION, ESTABLISH A PROCESS FOR ASSESSING AND COLLECTING LIENS, PROVIDE FINANCING, AND TO DEVELOP STANDARDS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry proposed the following amendment (LC-256.PH0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 1 and inserting:
SECTION 1. This act may be cited as the "South Carolina Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and ResilienceCapital Expenditure Improvement Act."
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking the title of the newly created chapter and inserting:
Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resilience Capital Expenditure Improvement Programs
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-10 and inserting:
Section 6-39-10. The purpose of this chapter is to authorize the establishment of commercial property assessed clean energy and resiliencycapital expenditure (C-PACE) programs that local governments may voluntarily implement to ensure that owners of agricultural, commercial, industrial, and multifamily residential properties can obtain low-cost, long-term financing for qualifying improvements by freely and willingly agreeing to have an assessment levied on their properties. The goals of this authorization are to increase economic development, add jobs, increase the sustainability and safety of the building stockresiliency to natural disaster of commercial properties, improve disaster and emergency response and at no costs to local governments, decrease energy and waterutility costs and consumption, and encourage energy utility performance and water sustainability.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-20(4) and (5) and inserting:
(4) "C-PACE" means Commercial Property Assessed Clean EnergyCapital Expenditure.
(5) "C-PACE program" or "program" means a program of a local government established under this chapter to provide financing for qualified improvements within a C-PACE area.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-20(7) and inserting:
(7) "Energy efficiencyperformance measure" means any fixture, equipment, device, product, system, material, or interacting group intended to decrease energy consumption or utility costs or enable a more efficient use of electricity, natural gas, propane, or other forms of energy on real property including, but not limited to, all of the following: upgrades to a building envelope, such as insulation and glazing; energy efficient windows and doors; improvements in heating, ventilation, and cooling systems; automated energy and water control systems; improved lighting, including daylighting; energy recovery systems; combined heat and power systems; and any other fixture, equipment, device, product, system, or material intended as a utility or other cost-saving measure as described in a nationally recognized industry standard or federal or state agency guidelines.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-20(12)(b)(v) and inserting:
(v) the date of the assessment agreement;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-20(14) and (15) and inserting:
(14) "C-PACE area" means an area within the jurisdictional boundaries of a local government created by an ordinance or resolution of the local government to provide financing for qualifying improvements under a program. A C-PACE area may be all or a portion of the entire jurisdiction of the local government. If a local government is a county, the C-PACE area may include the entirety of the county's boundaries, inclusive of incorporated and unincorporated jurisdictions, to the extent permitted by law. A local government may designate less than the entire portion of the jurisdiction, may create more than one C-PACE area under the program, and C-PACE areas may be separate, overlapping, or coterminous.
(15) "Permitted assignee" means either any capital provider or any person in addition to any capital provider that is designated as a permitted assignee in the ordinance adopted pursuant to Section 6-39-40 or in the applicable assessment agreement or the applicable notice of assignment of assessment and C-PACE liena capital provider's successor, designee, or assigns.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-20(19) and inserting:
(19) "Qualified improvement" means the acquisition, installation, modification, or construction of a water efficiency performance measure, energy efficiency performance measure, renewable alternative energy resource, renewable energy facility, resiliency measure, or electrical vehicle charging infrastructure affixed to real property, including new construction.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-20(22), (23), and (24) and inserting:
(22) "Renewable Alternative energy resource" means a source of energy that includes, but is not limited to, solar photovoltaic and solar thermal resources, wind resources, low impact hydroelectric resources, geothermal resources, tidal and wave energy resources, recycling resources, hydrogen fuel derived from renewable resources, combined heat and power derived from renewable resources, and biomass resources.
(23) "Renewable Alternative energy facility" means a facility that generates electric power by the use of a renewablean alternative energy resource.
(24) "Renewable Alternative energy improvement" means any fixture, product, system, equipment, device, material, or interacting group on the property of the record owner that uses one or more renewablealternative energy resources to generate electricity.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-20(26) and inserting:
(26) "Water efficiency performance measure" means any resiliency measure, fixture, equipment, device, product, system, materials, or interacting group intended to improve water management practices, decrease water consumption, loss, or waste, or improve water quality including, but not limited to, water recycling, capturing, reusing, managing, and treating stormwater, bioretention, trees, green roofs, porous pavements, or cisterns for maintaining or restoring natural hydrology, replacing or otherwise abating or mitigating the use of lead pipes in the supply of water, and any other resiliency improvement, fixture, product, system, equipment, device, or material intended as a utility or other cost-saving measure as approved by the governing body.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-30(D) and inserting:
(D) A local government must sell or assign, for consideration, any and all rights to the assessment agreements to permitted assignees. A local government may sell or assign assessment agreements without competitive bidding or the solicitation of requests for proposals or requests for qualificationsother than its rights to indemnification and payment of local government's costs and expenses, and any rights and obligations of the local government with respect to the billing, collection, and enforcement of the assessment, as set forth in the assessment agreement.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-40(A)(8) and inserting:
(8) a description of the territory within the C-PACE area or C-PACE areas;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-40(B) and inserting:
(B) A program may be amended in accordance with the ordinance establishing the program. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the following may be accomplished by resolution without amending the ordinance: the addition or replacement of one or more program administrators; the types of qualified improvements; the addition of a C-PACE area; or a modification of the territory of an existing C-PACE area.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-50(A) and inserting:
(A) A record owner of qualifying property within the C-PACE area may apply to the program administrator for the C-PACE area to finance a qualified improvement under the applicable local government's program, provided that the aggregate amount to be financed is not less than one hundred thousand dollars.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-50(C) and inserting:
(C) Before the local government enters into an assessment agreement with a record owner under a program, the applicable program administrator must verify that the qualifying property is entirely within a C-PACE area and receive evidence of all of the following:
(1) that there are no delinquent taxes, assessments, or water or sewer charges on the qualifying property;
(2) that there are no delinquent assessments on the qualifying property under any C-PACE program;
(3) that there are no involuntary liens on the qualifying property including, but not limited to, construction or mechanics liens, lis pendens, or judgments against the record owner, except for those being contested by the record owner and for which the related amount or amounts are being held in escrow or secured by a surety bond or similar instrument and which have not been removed at the time of the close of the financing, or environmental proceedings, or eminent domain proceedings against the qualifying property;
(4) that no notices of default or other evidence of property-based debt delinquency have been recorded against the qualifying property that have not been cured;
(5) that the record owner is current on all mortgage debt on the property;
(6) that the record owner is not a debtor in a current bankruptcy proceeding or that the qualifying property is not an asset in a current bankruptcy proceeding;
(7) that all work requiring a license under any applicable law to acquire, construct, install, or modify a qualified improvement contemplated by the assessment agreement must be performed by a licensed contractor;
(8) that a licensed engineer has provided a written statement, upon which the local government, the program administrator, and the capital provider can rely, that the proposed qualified improvements are authorized under this chapter, the ordinance pursuant to which the program was established, and the applicable program guidebook and setting forth the duration of the estimated useful life of the proposed qualifying improvements as calculated in accordance with guidelines established by the program administrator in its program guidebook;
(9) if the qualifying property is encumbered by one or more mortgages, that the record owner provided to the holders or servicers of any mortgages a notice of the record owner's intent to enter into an assessment agreement with the local government, specifying the types of qualified improvements, the maximum principal amount to be financed, the maximum term of the assessment and an estimated maximum annual payment necessary to repay that amount, and that the record owner must obtain the written consent of the mortgage holder or servicer (whichever is required by the mortgage document as then in effect) for the record owner to enter into the assessment agreement in accordance with the requirements set forth in Section 6-39-70(C); and
(10) if the qualified improvement has already been completed, then it must have been completed no more than three years prior to the date the record owner applied to the program administrator for financing.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-80(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
(1) a county which has established a program may include assessments in the regular property tax bills of the county. A municipality or any other political subdivision may request that the treasurer of the county in which a C-PACE area is located to bill and collect assessments with the regular property tax bills of the county. No municipality or other political subdivision shall be obligated to request that the county treasurer bill and collect assessments. If the county treasurer bills and collects assessments with the regular property tax bills of the county for a particular program, then the program administrator for the program must timely file with the county treasurer a report with the annual amount due for each property, and the annual amount due becomes due in installments at the times property taxes shall become due in accordance with each regular property tax bill payable during the year in which the assessment comes due; or
(2) if the county treasurer does not bill and collect assessments with the regular property tax bills of the county, the local government in which the C-PACE area is located must either directly bill and collect the assessments or designate the local government's program administrator or program administrators or another third party to bill and collect assessments. If the local government is directly billing and collecting the assessments, the annual amount due becomes due in installments on or about the times property taxes would otherwise become due in accordance with each regular property tax bill payable during the year in which the assessment comes due. If the local government's program administrator or program administrators or another third party is billing and collecting assessments, the annual amount due must be due in installments as required by the related assessment agreement.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-80(B) and inserting:
(B) If a local government, a program administrator, or another third party is billing and collecting assessments pursuant to subsection (A)(2), and the applicable assessment becomes delinquent during any year, then the local government, program administrator, or other third party must, on or before the date in the year required by the county in which the C-PACE area is located, make a report in writing to the tax collector responsible for the collection of delinquent property taxes in the county. This report must be certified by the local government, program administrator, or other third party and must include statements that:
(1) the report contains a true and correct list of delinquent assessments that the reporting person has not received as required by the applicable bill; and
(2) an itemization of the amount of each delinquent assessment, including interest and penalties, if applicable. The report of the reporting person, when so made, shall be prima facie evidence that all requirements of the law in relation to making the report have been satisfied and that the assessments or the matured installments, and the interest, and the interest accrued on installments not yet matured, mentioned in the report, are due and unpaid. Upon proper filing of the report, at the direction of the local government or its permitted assignee, the county delinquent tax collector shall be required to enforce the collection of the assessments in the manner provided by law for taxes and non ad valorem assessments on par with taxes as a ministerial, nondiscretionary duty of the office.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-90(A) and inserting:
(A) Qualified improvements must be financed with funds provided directly by a capital provider pursuant to a financing agreement. Neither the State nor the local government shall prescribe the form of financing agreement; provided, however, that the applicable local government must be a third-party beneficiary.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 6-39-100 and inserting:
Section 6-39-100. Qualified improvements must meet all applicable safety, performance, interconnection, and reliability standards established by the Public Service Commission of South Carolina,, the South Carolina Public Service Authority, the National Electrical Code as adopted and modified by the South Carolina Building Codes Council, the National Electrical Safety Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Underwriters Laboratories, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Electric Reliability Organization certified by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and any other governing authorities with jurisdiction prior to qualifying for financing.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DAVIS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Bill was carried over.
H. 4247 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-10, RELATING TO STATE COMMODITY CODE DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE STATE COMMODITY CODE BE THE SOUTH CAROLINA ATTORNEY GENERAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-40, RELATING TO TRANSACTIONS WHERE PROHIBITION IS NOT APPLICABLE, SO AS TO ADD AGENTS OR INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVES AS INDIVIDUALS SUBJECT TO AN ORDER TO DENY, SUSPEND, OR REVOKE A PERSON'S LICENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-60, RELATING TO PROHIBITED ACTS, SO AS TO REPLACE SECTION 39-73-310 WITH SECTION 39-73-30; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-80, RELATING TO STATE SECURITIES LAWS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-315, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATOR ACTIONS TO PREVENT VIOLATIONS OR IMMINENT VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR CAN ISSUE AN ORDER RELATED TO ANY ACTION THAT MAY VIOLATE THIS CHAPTER; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-320, RELATING TO LEGAL, EQUITABLE, AND SPECIAL REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO A COURT FOR ENFORCEMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY MAINTAIN AN ACTION IN THE RICHLAND COUNTY COURT OF COMMON PLEAS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-325, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY REFER VIOLATIONS TO THE APPROPRIATE DIVISION OF THE OFFICE OF ATTORNEY GENERAL OR OTHER AUTHORITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-330, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS CHAPTER, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-340, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, FORMS, AND ORDERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-350, RELATING TO THE APPLICABILITY OF SECTIONS 39-73-20, 39-73-50, AND 39-73-60 TO PERSONS WHO SELL, BUY, OR OFFER TO SELL OR BUY COMMODITIES IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR APPLICABLE RADIO AND TELEVISION COMMUNICATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-360, RELATING TO JUDICIAL REVIEW, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-370, RELATING TO DEFENSE IN A CASE BASED ON FAILURE TO MAKE PHYSICAL DELIVERY, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-375 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL MAY RETAIN FUNDS FROM FINES AND PENALTIES TO OFFSET RELEVANT EXPENSES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-400 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY OF THIS CHAPTER; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 39-73-355 RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
Senator YOUNG explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator MARTIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to give the Bill a second reading, carry over all amendments and waive the provisions of Rule 26B in order to allow amendments to be considered on third reading.
There was no objection.
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
H. 4267 (Word version) -- Reps. Landing, Hager, Teeple, Hartnett, Vaughan, Wickensimer and Bustos: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-320 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE TWENTY-FIRST DAY OF NOVEMBER AS "MAYFLOWER COMPACT DAY."
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
Senator YOUNG explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 655 (Word version) -- Senator Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME GAPWAY DRAINAGE BRIDGE ON US 76 IN HORRY COUNTY "ZACHARY KYLE STRICKLAND BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
H. 4120 (Word version) -- Rep. Gilliam: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION WHERE SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 18 MEETS SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 9 IN UNION COUNTY "US AIR FORCE STAFF SERGEANT KENNETH JASON WILBURN MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4184 (Word version) -- Rep. Teeple: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF INDIGO HILL ROAD IN CHARLESTON COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 174 TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH CLARK ROAD "GENO MIDDLETON ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4381 (Word version) -- Reps. Atkinson and Kirby: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME NESMITH CORNER ROAD IN THE COMMUNITY OF NESMITH IN WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY "COLUMBUS PRESSLEY AND CLAUDIE E. PRESSLEY MEMORIAL ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4415 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B.J. Cox, B.L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, 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, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, 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 DECLARE SATURDAY, JUNE 14, 2025, AS UNITED STATES ARMY DAY IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL CITIZENS OF THIS GREAT STATE TO REFLECT UPON THE PROFOUND SENSE OF DUTY AND PATRIOTISM EXHIBITED BY THE SOLDIERS OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4416 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF OLD STAGECOACH ROAD IN THE TOWN OF BETHUNE IN KERSHAW COUNTY FROM MCLAUGHLIN ROAD TO STEPHENS LANE "CHARLIE AND PAT STEPHENS INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4429 (Word version) -- Rep. Burns: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 276 IN GREENVILLE COUNTY AT 35º5'30" N BY 82º36'53" W CONTAINING THE WORDS "ALAMO COVE" TO HONOR THE FIREFIGHTERS WHO COURAGEOUSLY FOUGHT TO CONTAIN AND EXTINGUISH THE PERSIMMON RIDGE FIRE.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
Senator MASSEY moved under the provisions of Rule 32A to vary the Order of the Day and proceed immediately to the Motion Period.
The motion was adopted.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
Senator MASSEY, Chairman of the Committee on Rules, moved under the provisions of Rule 32B to call H. 3008 from the Contested Calendar.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Massey Nutt Peeler Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Turner Verdin Young Zell
Allen Devine Hutto Martin Matthews Ott Sabb Sutton Tedder Walker Williams
The motion was adopted.
At 4:15 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, under Rule 32A, the Senate agreed to vary the order of the day and proceed directly to the Contested Calendar.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Massey Nutt Peeler Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Turner Verdin Young Zell
Allen Devine Hutto Jackson Martin Matthews Ott Sabb Sutton Tedder Walker Williams
The motion was adopted and the Senate proceeded to H. 3008.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE CONTESTED STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
H. 3008 (Word version) -- Reps. Forrest, G.M. Smith, W. Newton, Wooten, Pope, Pedalino, Taylor, Hixon, Davis, M.M. Smith, Teeple, Robbins, Mitchell, Yow, Ligon, J.L. Johnson and Willis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO APPLY FOR A CONVENTION UNDER ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION IN ORDER TO PROPOSE A CONGRESSIONAL TERM LIMITS AMENDMENT.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Resolution.
Senators JACKSON, SUTTON and SABB proposed the following amendment (SR-3008.CEM0002S), which was tabled:
Amend the concurrent resolution, as and if amended, by striking lines 40 and 41 and inserting:
That the members of the General Assembly, by this resolution, apply for a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution in order to propose a congressional term limits amendment. and to reaffirm that no person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JACKSON explained the amendment.
Senator GARRETT raised a Point of Order under Rule 24A that the amendment was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the Bill.
Senator SABB spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator MARTIN spoke on the Point of Order.
The PRESIDENT overruled the Point of Order.
Senator KIMBRELL spoke on the amendment.
Senator JACKSON asked unanimous consent to withdraw the amendment.
Senator MATTHEWS objected.
Senator MATTHEWS spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator KIMBRELL continued speaking on the amendment.
Senator KIMBRELL moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Nutt Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Matthews Tedder
The amendment was laid on the table.
Senator DEVINE proposed the following amendment (SR-3008.CEM0005S), which was tabled:
Amend the concurrent resolution, as and if amended, by striking lines 40 and 41 and inserting:
That the members of the General Assembly, by this resolution, apply for a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution in order to propose a congressional term limits amendment and an amendment to prohibit convicted felons from serving as Members of Congress.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DEVINE explained the amendment.
The question being the adoption of the amendment.
Senator CASH moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The amendment was laid on the table.
Senator HUTTO spoke on the Bill.
Senator CAMPSEN spoke on the Bill.
Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SMIN-3008.MW0001S), which was tabled:
Amend the concurrent resolution, as and if amended, page 2 by striking lines 28 and 29 and inserting:
(7) the South Carolina General Assembly may provide further instructions to its delegates and may recall its delegates at any time for a breach of a duty or a violation of the instructions provided However, the delegates shall include but not be limited to, Lee Bright, Curtis Loftis, Alan Willson, Ellen Weaver, Will Folks, Evan Mulch and Henry McMaster, and Diane Hardy.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
The question being the adoption of the amendment.
Senator KIMBRELL moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The amendment was laid on the table.
Senators MARTIN, HUTTO and STUBBS proposed the following amendment (SR-3008.CEM0006S), which was tabled:
Amend the concurrent resolution, as and if amended, by adding:
Be it further resolved that, in the interest of transparency and to support public awareness of congressional tenure, the South Carolina General Assembly calls for developing a publicly accessible state registry listing the current and past terms in order of the length of all congressional delegates in order of serving current and past. This registry shall:
a. Be maintained by the Congressional Office of Record, and
b. Include service start and end dates, re-election data, and any relevant appointments, and
c. Be updated no less than annually, and
d. Serve as an informational tool for civic education and legislative accountability.
e.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
Senator MATTHEWS spoke on the amendment.
The question being the adoption of the amendment.
Senator KIMBRELL moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The amendment was laid on the table.
The question being the adoption of the Resolution.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Cromer Davis Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Massey Peeler Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Turner Verdin Young Zell
Allen Corbin Devine Graham Hutto Jackson Martin Matthews Nutt Sabb Sutton Tedder Walker Williams
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
Senator MASSEY moved under the provisions of Rule 32A to vary the Order of the Day and return to the Motion Period.
The motion was adopted.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
Senator MASSEY, Chairman of the Committee on Rules, moved under the provisions of Rule 32B to call S. 318 from the Contested Calendar.
At 8:00 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
S. 318 (Word version) -- Senators Goldfinch, Alexander, Johnson, Fernandez, Gambrell, Stubbs, Grooms, Climer, Leber, Cash, Kimbrell, Davis, Young, Peeler, Corbin, Turner, Rice, Verdin, Garrett, Martin, Kennedy, Cromer, Adams and Zell: A JOINT RESOLUTION SO AS TO ENACT THE "COMMISSION ON FISCAL RESTRAINT AND GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY"; TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION; TO PROVIDE FOR THE COMMISSION'S DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS; TO PRIORITIZE SPENDING CUTS AND ESTABLISH A DATE THAT THE SPENDING CUTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE GOVERNOR; TO PROVIDE FOR THE REPORT ON THE COMMISSION'S OTHER DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS; AND TO SUNSET THE COMMISSION.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Resolution.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (SF-318.AA0007S), which was adopted:
Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by striking SECTIONS 1 and 2 and inserting:
SECTION 1. This act may be cited as the "Commission on Fiscal Restraint and Government Efficiency".Delivery of Government Efficiency Commission Act."
SECTION 2. (A) There is created the Commission on Fiscal Restraint and Government EfficiencyDelivery of Government Efficiency Commission. The voting members of the commission shall be comprised of:
(1) three members appointed by the President of the Senate;
(2) three members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; and
(3) three members appointed by the Governor from the State at large.
(B) The voting members of the commission may not be a member of the General Assembly or otherwise have a conflict of interest. A commission member has a 'conflict of interest' if it is reasonably foreseeable that the commission member will derive a direct financial benefit or suffer a direct financial loss as a result of a particular outcome that might reasonably be reached by the commission.,
(C) Membership on the commission shall not constitute holding an 'office' for the purpose of the prohibition on dual office holding in Section 3, Article VI and Section 1A, Article XVII of the South Carolina Constitution, 1895.
(B)(D) The commission shall be chaired by the Director of the Department of Administration, or her designee. The Director of the Department of Administration's designee may not be a member of the General Assembly. The commission chair shall be a non-voting member.
(C)(E) Commissioners shall serve without compensation and are not entitled to mileage, subsistence, or per diem as provided by law for members of state boards, committees, and commissions.
(D)(F) The commission shall utilize staff from the General Assembly and the executive branch at the discretion of the chair. The commission may also engage third-party consultants or other experts in related fields to fulfill its duties and obligations.
Amend the joint resolution further, by striking SECTIONS 4 and 5 and inserting:
SECTION 4. The commission shall first undertake the review of appropriations in the State budget to identify areas where spending reductions are appropriate. The commission's findings shall identify the amount of recommended reductions and identify the source of the reductions as specifically as possible, down to the program or subprogram level if possible. The commission shall report its findings to the President of the Senate, Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee, and the Governor not later than October 1, 2025. Upon receipt of this report, the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee may request that the chair of the commission present specific findings at a regular meeting of the relevant budget subcommittee or of the full standing committee. The commission's report shall be published on the General Assembly's and the Governor's website.
SECTION 5. Following the commission's recommendations concerning reductions in appropriations, the commission shall then work to fulfill its remaining duties and obligations. The commission shall report its additional findings to the President of the Senate, Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee, and the Governor not later than October 1, 2026. The commission may, at its discretion, report these findings to the standing legislative oversight committees of the General Assembly for consideration for investigation as outlined in Section 2-2-40. The commission's report shall be published on the General Assembly's and the Governor's website.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators HUTTO and SUTTON proposed the following amendment (SMIN-318.KR0005S), which was adopted:
Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by striking the Section 2 paragraph B and inserting:
(B) The voting members of the commission may not be a member of the General Assembly or otherwise have a conflict of interest. If aA commission member has a 'conflict of interest' if a commission member shall recuse themselves from participating in any matter where it is reasonably foreseeable that the commission member will derive a direct financial benefit or suffer a direct financial loss as a result of a particular outcome that might reasonably be reached by the commission.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator SUTTON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Resolution.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Elliott Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Nutt Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
Devine Matthews Sabb Sutton Tedder Walker
There being no further amendments, the Resolution, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate agreed that if and when the Senate stands adjourned today, it will adjourn to meet tomorrow morning at 10:01 A.M.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Initial Appointment, Beaufort County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Larry Weidner II, 2 Wicklow Court, Bluffton, SC 29910 VICE Drew Laughlin
Initial Appointment, Lee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Charles Cottingham Jr., 31 Cattle Drive Lane, Lynchburg, SC 29080
Reappointment, Lee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Shirley C. Davidson, P. O. Box 2, Bishopville, SC 29010
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator WALKER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mrs. Kellie Tisdale Sauls of Blythewood, S.C. Kellie graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor's degree in Humanities and Social Services. She earned her paralegal certification and worked the next eight years for the Richland County Solicitor's office and the South Carolina Senate. Kellie later received her associate's degree in nursing from Midlands Technical College and worked in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Palmetto Health-Richland Hospital for eleven years before becoming the NICU Case Manager for Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Healthcare. Her love for clinical nursing led her to become a school nurse for Killian Elementary School for six years. Kellie was a loving wife and devoted mother who will be dearly missed.
At 8:09 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 10:01 A.M.
This web page was last updated on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 9:10 A.M.