NO. 3
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.
A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:
John 13:34
As we read in John's Gospel:
" 'I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.' "
Let us pray: There is surely nothing at all commonplace or shallow, Gracious Lord, about our text today. It is not some empty sentiment, tossed off casually in passing. And it is surely not a command meant to be ignored. On the contrary, as I daresay, each and every one of us knows we do need to be praying for one another, for every individual serving here as a Senator, for every Senate aide, and, indeed, for each and every one of our five and a half million residents, as well. And most pointedly, we are to be praying during this entire legislative term that the actions this Senate will take this year fully embrace that very love, with the end results being of genuine benefit to every woman, man, and child living within our borders. And may the ultimate glory, dear Lord, be Yours. 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 Bright Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
January 15, 2026
Mr. President and Members of the Senate:
I am transmitting herewith notice of my intent to withdraw my nomination of Mr. Jeff Duncan for appointment to the Public Service Authority Board of Directors.
Respectfully,
Henry Dargan McMaster
On motion of Senator Rankin, the Senate acceded to the Governor's request and the Clerk was directed to return the appointment to the Governor.
Initial Appointment, Board of Directors of the South Carolina Public Service Authority, with the term to commence January 1, 2024, and to expire January 1, 2028
3rd Congressional District:
Jeff Duncan, P.O. Box 845, Laurens, SC 29360 VICE Kristopher Clark
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Randy Brice Foxworth, 209 Short Street, Kingstree, SC 29556-3926
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Glen A. Kennedy, 209 Short Street, Kingstree, SC 29556-3926
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Brian Maurice McKnight, Sr., 4989 Thurgood Marshall Hwy., Kingstree, SC 29556-3926
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Jacob D. Wilson, 608 Virginia Street, Kingstree, SC 29556-3231
Senator MARTIN introduced Dr. Fritz Butehorn of Spartanburg, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator OTT, at 11:15 A.M., Senator TEDDER was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator SABB, at 11:15 A.M., Senator WALKER was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, at 11:36 A.M., Senator MATTHEWS was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator ADAMS, at 11:36 A.M., Senator GROOMS was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, at 11:36 A.M., Senator MARTIN was granted a leave of absence for balance of the day.
Senator REICHENBACH rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
Senator HUTTO rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 52 (Word version) Sen. Williams
S. 76 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 716 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 723 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 734 (Word version) Sens. Leber, Bright and Fernandez
S. 768 (Word version) Sen. Rice
S. 784 (Word version) Sen. Campsen
The following were introduced:
S. 817 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Adams, Alexander, Allen, Bennett, Blackmon, Bright, Campsen, Cash, Chaplin, Climer, Corbin, Cromer, Davis, Devine, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Garrett, Goldfinch, Graham, Grooms, Hembree, Hutto, Jackson, Johnson, Kennedy, Kimbrell, Leber, Martin, Massey, Matthews, Ott, Peeler, Rankin, Reichenbach, Rice, Sabb, Stubbs, Sutton, Tedder, Turner, Verdin, Walker, Williams and Zell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE AIKEN SCHOLARS ACADEMY IN AIKEN COUNTY FOR EARNING 2025 BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL HONORS AND FOR BEING NAMED IN THE TOP TEN HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE UNITED STATES.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 818 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 62-1-113 SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR THE TERM "TRUST BUSINESS."
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 819 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-31-45 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PROCEDURE FOR TUBERCULOSIS TESTING OF APPLICANTS AND NEW EMPLOYEES AT NURSING HOMES AND COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
S. 820 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-148 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO HEALTH INSURANCE AND BREAST EXAMINATIONS; TO REQUIRE HEALTH INSURANCE POLICIES IN THIS STATE TO PROVIDE DIAGNOSTIC AND SUPPLEMENTAL BREAST EXAMINATIONS COVERAGE WITHOUT COST-SHARING REQUIREMENTS; TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS CONCERNING THE APPLICATION OF CERTAIN FEDERAL LAWS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THESE PROVISIONS ARE IN ADDITION TO OTHER EXISTING PROVISIONS CONCERNING HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY COVERAGE OF MAMMOGRAMS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
S. 821 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett and Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 39-5-39, RELATING TO AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISING IN A FALSE, DECEPTIVE, OR MISLEADING MANNER, SO AS TO DEFINE FALSE ADVERTISING; TO PROVIDE THAT ANY ADVERTISING FOR LEGAL SERVICES THAT REFERENCES A SETTLEMENT OBTAINED ON BEHALF OF A CLIENT MUST DISCLOSE THE AMOUNT OF ATTORNEY FEES AND LITIGATION COSTS DEDUCTED FROM THE RECOVERY; TO REQUIRE THE LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT TO CLARIFY THAT ANY REFERENCED RESULTS ARE NOT REPRESENTATIVE OF ALL CASES AND THAT OUTCOMES DEPEND ON THE SPECIFIC FACTS OF EACH CASE; AND TO PROVIDE THAT ANY ADVERTISING FOR LEGAL SERVICES THAT STATES THAT THE FILING OF A LAWSUIT IS AGAINST AN INSURANCE COMPANY OR OTHER THIRD PARTY MUST DISCLOSE THE FACT THAT ANY LAWSUIT WOULD BE FILED AGAINST AN INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS THAT WOULD BE NAMED AS THE DEFENDANT AND THAT THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS ONLY PROVIDING THE COVERAGE ON BEHALF OF THE NAMED INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS BASED ON A POLICY PURCHASED BY THE INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
S. 822 (Word version) -- Senators Corbin, Garrett, Young, Turner and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-7-80 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATING TO REAL ESTATE FRAUD AND CREATE THE FELONY OF DEED THEFT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 823 (Word version) -- Senators Reichenbach, Hutto and Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTIONS 63-7-2630 AND 63-9-765 SO AS TO REQUIRE FAMILY COURTS TO CONSIDER THE APPROPRIATENESS OF NO-CONTACT ORDERS OR SUPERVISED-CONTACT ORDERS WHEN TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS OR FINALIZING ADOPTIONS; TO AUTHORIZE THESE ORDERS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 824 (Word version) -- Senators Reichenbach, Hutto and Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA FOSTERING FUTURES ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 111, TITLE 59, SO AS TO REQUIRE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO WAIVE TUITION AND FEES FOR CERTAIN CURRENT AND FORMER FOSTER YOUTH; TO PROVIDE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND LIMITS; AND TO REQUIRE INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT AND REPORTING.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
S. 825 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Sabb, Jackson, Williams, Allen, Matthews, Tedder, Devine, Graham, Ott, Sutton and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "FAMILY PROTECTION ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3632, RELATING TO THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO ALLOW AN ADDITIONAL REFUNDABLE CREDIT; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3380, RELATING TO THE TAX CREDIT FOR CHILD AND DEPENDENT CARE EXPENSES, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR AN ALTERNATIVE CREDIT; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT CERTAIN ITEMS RELATED TO CHILD BIRTH; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3715 SO AS TO CREATE A TAX CREDIT FOR EMPLOYING CERTAIN NONVIOLENT EX-FELONS; BY ADDING SECTIONS 12-6-3835, 12-6-3840, 12-6-3845, 12-6-3850, 12-6-3855, 12-6-3860, AND 12-6-3865 SO AS TO PROVIDE TAX CREDITS FOR LIVING IN A HOUSEHOLD WHERE ONE ACTIVE DUTY FAMILY MEMBER IS DEPLOYED, FOR VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES, FOR HIRING CERTAIN VETERANS, FOR EMPLOYERS VOLUNTARILY PROVIDING CERTAIN FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE, FOR EMPLOYERS PROVIDING CHILDCARE, FOR LIVING OR EMPLOYING PERSONS IN A COUNTY WITH A COMMUNITY JOBS PRIORITY ZONE, AND FOR UNPAID PRIMARY CAREGIVERS; BY ADDING SECTION 12-4-400 SO AS TO CREATE A SINGLE STATEWIDE WORKING FAMILIES TAX CREDIT PORTAL; BY ADDING SECTION 41-29-320 SO AS TO CREATE THE "WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY GRANT PROGRAM"; BY ADDING SECTION 27-40-795 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN WRITTEN NOTICE REQUIREMENTS IN RENTAL INCREASES; BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-200 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A MUNICIPALITY OR COUNTY MAY ESTABLISH A VOLUNTARY RENT STABILITY PROGRAM; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3830 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A STATE TAX CREDIT EQUAL TO THE FEDERAL LOW INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT; BY ADDING SECTION 31-13-100 SO AS TO CREATE THE "COMMUNITY HOUSING GROWTH INCENTIVES FUND"; BY ADDING CHAPTER 36 TO TITLE 1 SO AS ESTABLISH THE OFFICE OF FAMILY PROTECTION WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION TO SUPPORT AND PROTECT FAMILIES AND CAREGIVERS BY IMPROVING EFFICIENCY, ELIMINATING DUPLICATION, AND MAXIMIZING THE USE OF FEDERAL AND PRIVATE RESOURCES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE OFFICE'S DUTIES AND AUTHORITY, TO CREATE THE FAMILY PROTECTION ADVISORY AND ACCOUNTABILITY BOARD AS AN ADVISORY BOARD FOR THE OFFICE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 15, TITLE 2 SO AS TO CREATE THE "JOINT CITIZENS AND LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON PRESCRIPTION DRUG AFFORDABILITY" TO SERVE AS AN ADVISORY BODY TO STUDY PRESCRIPTION DRUG COSTS AND TO MAKE RELATED RECOMMENDATIONS TO REDUCE STATE EXPENDITURES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE COMMITTEE'S MEMBERSHIP AND DUTIES, TO REQUIRE THE LEGISLATIVE AUDIT COUNCIL AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES TO STAFF THE COMMITTEE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; BY ADDING SECTION 44-6-42 SO AS TO GIVE THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES THE AUTHORITY TO NEGOTIATE SUPPLEMENTAL REBATES AND BULK-PURCHASING AGREEMENTS WITH PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANIES, TO ESTABLISH A PREFERRED DRUG LIST, AND TO DEVELOP A STATE PHARMACY CARD FOR UNINSURED AND UNDERINSURED RESIDENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-364 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO COORDINATE A PUBLIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN ON PRESCRIPTION DRUG ACCESS AND AFFORDABILITY; BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 35, TITLE 43 SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN UNPAID PRIMARY CAREGIVER REGISTRY AND IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, TO ENTITLE ELIGIBLE CAREGIVERS TO CERTAIN FINANCIAL BENEFITS AND SERVICES, TO ESTABLISH A PRIMARY CAREGIVER GRANT FUND AND PROGRAM WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO CERTAIN LOW- AND MODERATE-INCOME PRIMARY CAREGIVERS, TO ESTABLISH A CAREGIVER RESPITE SERVICES PROGRAM WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT ON AGING TO OFFER RESPITE CARE FOR CAREGIVERS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-140 SO AS TO PROHIBIT EMPLOYERS FROM RETALIATING AGAINST EMPLOYEES WHO ARE UNPAID PRIMARY CAREGIVERS AND TO REQUIRE CERTAIN EMPLOYERS TO PROVIDE UNPAID LEAVE FOR CAREGIVING EMERGENCIES.
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Senator HUTTO spoke on the Bill.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
H. 4917 (Word version) -- Rep. G. M. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION INVITING HIS EXCELLENCY, HENRY DARGAN MCMASTER, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION AT 7:00 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2026, IN THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4918 (Word version) -- Reps. Beach, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO APPLAUD THE POWDERSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TEAM ON CAPTURING THE 2025 CLASS AAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE AND TO CONGRATULATE THESE ATHLETES AND THEIR COACH ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4921 (Word version) -- Reps. Martin, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE MEMBERS OF THE FORT MILL AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY POST #43 AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM UPON THE ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FORT MILL AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4922 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Gilliam, Hiott, Moss, Wooten, Hixon and Bailey: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPON THE PASSING OF LIEUTENANT LANSING P. "PETE" LOGAN OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION, TO CELEBRATE HIS LIFE, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
Columbia, S.C., January 15, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
H. 3431 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Wooten, Pope, Martin, Pedalino, McCravy, Bernstein, Guffey, Govan, T. Moore, Erickson, Bradley, Robbins, Calhoon, M.M. Smith and Crawford: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT A SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANY MAY NOT PERMIT CERTAIN MINORS TO BE ACCOUNT HOLDERS; TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES; TO PROVIDE THAT A SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANY SHALL PROVIDE CERTAIN PARENTS OR GUARDIANS WITH CERTAIN INFORMATION; TO PROVIDE THAT A SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANY SHALL RESTRICT SOCIAL MEDIA ACCESS TO MINORS DURING CERTAIN HOURS; TO PROVIDE FOR CONSUMER COMPLAINTS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE CONSUMER SERVICES DIVISION HAS AUTHORITY TO ADMINISTER AND ENFORCE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS; TO PROVIDE FOR AN ANNUAL REPORT; TO PROVIDE FOR A CAUSE OF ACTION; AND TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN WAIVERS AND LIMITATIONS ARE VOID.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., January 14, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R.86, S. 136 by a vote of 112 to 0:
(R86, S136 (Word version)) -- Senators Tedder, Leber, Kimbrell and Rice: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-1-65, RELATING TO THE EXPUNGEMENT OF CONVICTIONS FOR THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF HANDGUNS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE MUST DISMISS AND EXPUNGE CERTAIN PENDING UNLAWFUL HANDGUN POSSESSION CHARGES THAT OCCURRED PRIOR TO THE ENACTMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY/SECOND AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT OF 2024, AND TO PROVIDE THE DISMISSAL OF THESE CHARGES MAY NOT SERVE AS A BASIS OR SUPPORT FOR CIVIL ACTIONS DUE TO THE ARREST.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
S. 755 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Adams, Alexander, Allen, Bennett, Blackmon, Bright, Campsen, Cash, Chaplin, Climer, Corbin, Cromer, Davis, Devine, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Garrett, Goldfinch, Graham, Grooms, Hembree, Hutto, Jackson, Johnson, Kennedy, Kimbrell, Leber, Martin, Massey, Matthews, Ott, Peeler, Rankin, Reichenbach, Rice, Sabb, Stubbs, Sutton, Tedder, Turner, Verdin, Walker, Williams and Zell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE GAIL GINGREY FOR HER FIFTY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE AS A REALTOR IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO WISH HER MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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 ordered sent to the House:
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.
S. 76 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms, Young, Goldfinch, Sabb, Alexander and Kennedy: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-230, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-240, RELATING TO USE OF OR THREAT OF PHYSICAL VIOLENCE BY CRIMINAL GANG MEMBERS AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH UNLAWFUL CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-245 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADMISSIBILITY OF CRIMINAL GANG AND CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY EVIDENCE DURING A TRIAL OR PROCEEDING; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-250, RELATING TO PREVENTING WITNESSES OR VICTIMS FROM TESTIFYING AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A MECHANISM TO ABATE A PUBLIC NUISANCE OF REAL PROPERTY USED BY A CRIMINAL GANG; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-275 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADMISSIBILITY IN A CRIMINAL PROCEEDING OF THE ACCUSED'S COMMISSION OF CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-520 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DEFINITIONS FOR THE ANTI-RACKETEERING ACT; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-530 SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO ENGAGE IN RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-540 SO AS TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR ENGAGING IN RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-550 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CIRCUIT COURT MAY ENJOIN VIOLATIONS OF THE ANTI-RACKETEERING ACT BY ISSUING APPROPRIATE ORDERS; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-560 SO AS TO ESTABLISH JURISDICTION FOR RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-570 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM DISCLOSURE OF INFORMANTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-1630, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF JURIES, NOTIFICATION TO IMPANEL JURIES, POWERS AND DUTIES OF IMPANELING AND PRESIDING JUDGES, THE TRANSFER OF INCOMPLETE INVESTIGATIONS, EFFECTIVE DATES AND NOTICE REQUIREMENTS WITH RESPECT TO ORDERS OF JUDGE, AND APPEALS, SO AS TO ADD THE CRIME OF RACKETEERING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE STATE GRAND JURY.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.
S. 288 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Turner, Graham, Davis, Grooms and Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 6-29-725 SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE TRANSFER OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS BETWEEN DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS, TO PROVIDE FOR CONTENTS OF THE ORDINANCE NECESSARY TO REGULATE THE TRANSFER OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS, AND TO ALLOW TWO OR MORE LOCAL GOVERNING BODIES TO JOIN ONE ANOTHER IN SETTING UP A TRANSFER OF RIGHTS PROGRAM.
On motion of Senator KIMBRELL, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.
Senator ADAMS proposed the following amendment (SJ-3650.SW0001S), which was proposed:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 16-23-440(A) and (B) and inserting:
(A) It is unlawful for a person to knowingly and intentionally discharge or cause to be discharged unlawfully firearms;
(1) at or into a dwelling house, other building, structure, or enclosure regularly occupied by persons regardless of whether the attended target is actually struck; or
(2) the bullets of which unintentionally strike or otherwise enter a dwelling house, other building, structure, or enclosure regularly occupied by persons.
A person who violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both.
(B) It is unlawful for a person to knowingly and intentionally discharge or cause to be discharged unlawfully firearms:
(1) at or into any vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or other conveyance, device, or equipment while it is occupied; or
(2) the bullets of which unintentionally strike or otherwise enter any vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or other conveyance, device, or equipment while it is occupied.
(C) A person who violates the provisions of this subsection subsections (A) or (B) is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both. must be fined not more than:
(1) twenty thousand dollars and imprisoned not more than ten years; and
(2) fifty thousand dollars and imprisoned not more than fifteen years when any occupant is struck or bodily injury occurs as a proximate cause of the discharge of a firearm.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.
The question being the adoption of the amendment..
On motion of Senator ADAMS, with unanimous consent, the amendment and Bill were carried over.
S. 256 (Word version) -- Senators Davis and Devine: 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.
Senator DAVIS explained the Bill.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.
S. 52 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Cash, Gambrell, Grooms, Jackson, Devine, Climer, Johnson, Adams, Turner, Kimbrell, Sutton, Blackmon and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2930, RELATING TO OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS. (Abbreviated title)
Senator HUTTO raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
S. 52 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Cash, Gambrell, Grooms, Jackson, Devine, Climer, Johnson, Adams, Turner, Kimbrell, Sutton, Blackmon and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2930, RELATING TO OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS. (Abbreviated title)
Senator MASSEY moved that the Bill be made a Special Order.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
Sabb
The Bill was made a Special Order.
At 11:42 A.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Randy Brice Foxworth, 209 Short Street, Kingstree, SC 29556-3926
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Glen A. Kennedy, 209 Short Street, Kingstree, SC 29556-3926
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Brian Maurice McKnight, Sr., 4989 Thurgood Marshall Hwy., Kingstree, SC 29556-3926
Reappointment, Williamsburg County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Williamsburg County:
Hon. Jacob D. Wilson, 608 Virginia Street, Kingstree, SC 29556-3231
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
At 11:46 A.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.
This web page was last updated on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 1:26 P.M.