NO. 12

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 2:00 P.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:

Daniel 1:17

We are told in Scripture that to Daniel -- and to those three assigned the names Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego -- that "God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds."

Bow in prayer with me, if you will: Gracious and loving God, we often find ourselves wondering what it would be like to have access to someone who truly had the gift of being able to see the future, someone with the skill to grasp what really was ahead for us here in South Carolina. Well, we may not have a "Daniel" on staff, but we do have wise and dedicated servants here in this Senate -- Senators who are bright, discerning, conscientious, and who truly care about doing what is best for everyone here in South Carolina. And how clear it is, that during the challenging days which stretch before us such gifted leaders will be greatly needed. So, Lord, grant to these Senators the courage and wisdom to continue leading the way, doing what must be done for the benefit of all. In Your loving name we ask this, 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                  Bright
Campsen                   Cash                      Corbin
Cromer                    Davis                     Devine
Elliott                   Fernandez                 Gambrell
Garrett                   Goldfinch                 Graham
Grooms                    Hutto                     Jackson
Johnson                   Kennedy                   Kimbrell
Leber                     Massey                    Matthews
Ott                       Peeler                    Reichenbach
Rice                      Sabb                      Stubbs
Sutton                    Tedder                    Turner
Verdin                    Williams                  Young
Zell

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

At 2:12 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate receded from business not to exceed 10 minutes.

At 2:22 P.M., the Senate resumed.

At 2:23 P.M., on motion of Senator PEELER, the House of Representatives was invited to attend the Senate Chamber for the purpose of ratifying Acts at a mutually convenient time.

A message was sent to the House accordingly.

The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority Board of Directors, with the term to commence February 13, 2026, and to expire February 13, 2031
At-Large:
Thomas A. Limehouse, Jr., Esquire, P.O. Box 338, Charleston, SC 29402 VICE William A. Coates

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Reappointment, State Human Affairs Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2029
1st Congressional District:
Mary M. Amonitti, 6 Queens Folly Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928-5189

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

Initial Appointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Greenville County:
Cheryl C. Brewer, ED.D., 100 Hedge Rose Court, Travelers Rest, SC 29690 VICE New Seat

Columbia, S.C., May 22, 2025

Mr. President and Senators:
I am vetoing and returning without my approval R91, S. 623:

(R91, S. 623 (Word version)) -- Senator Goldfinch: AN ACT TO EXEMPT GEORGETOWN COUNTY FROM CERTAIN BUILDING REQUIREMENTS AND TO ALLOW THE COUNTY TO INSTEAD ENFORCE AE STANDARDS IN GEORGETOWN COUNTY'S FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION ORDINANCE.

Yours very truly,

Henry McMaster

Received as information

The veto was ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

Senator REICHENBACH introduced Dr. Coleman Buckhouse of Florence, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

On motion of Senator STUBBS, at 2:24 P.M., Senator CHAPLIN was granted a leave of absence for today.

On motion of Senator KIMBRELL, at 3:31 P.M., Senator MARTIN was granted a leave of absence for today.

Senator DEVINE rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 52 (Word version)     Sen. Zell
S. 696 (Word version)     Sen. Reichenbach
S. 788 (Word version)     Sen. Stubbs
S. 856 (Word version)     Sen. Stubbs
S. 867 (Word version)     Sens. Garrett, Sutton, Walker, Blackmon and Turner

The following were introduced:

S. 875 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson and Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE ROSEWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT ONE UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY, TO COMMEND THE SCHOOL ON ITS MANY ACHIEVEMENTS OVER THE PAST CENTURY, AND TO WISH ITS STUDENTS, FACULTY, ADMINISTRATORS, AND ALUMNI WELL AS THEY CONTINUE TO HOLD HIGH THE FOUNDING STANDARDS OF ROSEWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 876 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF NAOMI DYE CANNADY AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 877 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 25, TITLE 17 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATED TO PROFITS FROM A CRIME, TO PROVIDE A PRIORITY LIEN IN FAVOR OF THE STATE UPON ANY PROFITS OF CRIME PAYABLE TO OR ACCRUING TO A CONVICTED PERSON OR ANOTHER PERSON ON HIS BEHALF, TO PROVIDE LIEN ATTACHMENT AT THE TIME OF CONVICTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PROCEEDS, AND TO GIVE THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL THE AUTHORITY TO TAKE LEGAL ACTION AS NECESSARY TO PERFECT AND ENFORCE THE LIEN.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 878 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Climer and Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 32 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATED TO THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC CHOICE; TO ALLOW AN ELIGIBLE CUSTOMER TO PERMIT ITS ELECTRICITY DEMAND FROM A THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC SUPPLIER; TO REQUIRE THE ELIGIBLE CUSTOMER TO PROVIDE ARRANGEMENT FOR FIRM TRANSMISSION SERVICE OF THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC TO THE INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIERS' TRANSMISSION SYSTEM; TO NOT HOLD THE INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIER LIABLE FOR ANY COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC SUPPLY; TO REQUIRE THE INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIER TO HAVE REMOTE CUTOFF CAPABILITIES IN PLACE FOR THIRD-PARTY ELECTRIC SUPPLY; TO ASSIGN THE COST OF REQUIRED TRANSMISSION UPGRADES; TO REQUIRE A CUSTOMER TO CONTINUE TO PAY FOR CAPITAL COSTS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; TO REQUIRE AN INCUMBENT ELECTRIC SUPPLIER TO PROVIDE COST-OF-SERVICE SUPPLY TO CUSTOMERS OR CUSTOMER LOAD RETURNING FROM A PERIOD OF RETAIL ACCESS SERVICE ON THE SAME TERMS, RATES, AND PRIORITY AS A NEW CUSTOMER REQUESTING SERVICE; AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO APPROVE A TARIFF CONTAINING A PRO FORMA CONTRACT AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 879 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 14-11-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERMS OF MASTERS-IN-EQUITY BEGIN JULY 1.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 880 (Word version) -- Senator Massey: A JOINT RESOLUTION IF A MEMBER OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SUBMITS AN IRREVOCABLE RESIGNATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 8-1-145 ON OR BEFORE MARCH 1, 2026, THEN THE ELECTION TO FILL THE VACANCY SHALL BE CONDUCTED CONCURRENTLY WITH THE CANDIDACY FILING AND ELECTION SCHEDULE APPLICABLE TO THE 2026 ELECTION FOR MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 881 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO WELCOME THE NATIONAL COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION, THE HONORABLE DAN K. WILEY, AND TO INVITE HIM TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION IN THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AT 12:30 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2026.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Operations and Management.

S. 882 (Word version) -- Senator Sabb: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE STORMY SNOW GRAHAM SR. ON THE OCCASION OF HIS NINETIETH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HIM A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MUCH HAPPINESS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 883 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT, PURSUANT TO SECTION 9, ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE, 1895, WHEN THE RESPECTIVE HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURN ON THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026, NOT LATER THAN 5:00 P.M., EACH HOUSE SHALL STAND IN RECESS SUBJECT TO THE CALL OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE FOR THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AT TIMES THEY CONSIDER APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR RESPECTIVE BODIES TO MEET FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF CERTAIN SPECIFIED MATTERS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN THE RESPECTIVE HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURN NOT LATER THAN SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2026, THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL STAND ADJOURNED SINE DIE.
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On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the Concurrent Resolution was adopted and ordered sent to the House.

S. 884 (Word version) -- Senators Devine and Jackson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPON THE PASSING OF BISHOP JAMES REDFERN II, PRESIDING BISHOP OF THE ECUMENICAL CHURCH OF CHRIST WORLDWIDE, AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS LOVING FAMILY AND HIS MANY FRIENDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 885 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND CONGRATULATE BRANDY "BEASY BAYBIE" HENSHAW ON HER EXCEPTIONAL RADIO HOST CAREER AND HER MANY YEARS OF SERVICE TO COUNTLESS COMMUNITIES ACROSS SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 886 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO ENCOURAGE ENGAGEMENT IN ACTIVITIES THAT PROMOTE PEACE, MINDFULNESS, SELF-CARE, INTEGRATIVE THERAPY, AND COMPASSIONATE LIVING AND TO DECLARE APRIL 14, 2026, AS "PEACE MEDITATION, MINDFUL WELLNESS, AND WORLD OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DAY" IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

H. 4916 (Word version) -- Rep. Henderson-Myers: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS SYMPATHY FOR THE LOSS OF MR. ROY C. HENDERSON AND TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH LIBERTY STREET IN THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY FROM THE C.C. WOODSON COMMUNITY CENTER TO CAULDER AVENUE "ROY C. HENDERSON MEMORIAL STREET" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 5054 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, 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, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) EDUCATION ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO DECLARE MARCH 25, 2026, AS "STEM EDUCATION DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Education.

H. 5079 (Word version) -- Reps. Duncan, Whitmire, 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, 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, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE SENECA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK AND FIELD TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM FOR WINNING THE 2025 SOUTH CAROLINA CLASS AAAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

H. 5080 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Hartz, Hixon, Oremus, Taylor, Forrest, 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, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, 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, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPON THE PASSING OF THE HONORABLE BEVERLY D. CLYBURN OF AIKEN COUNTY, TO CELEBRATE HER LIFE AND LEGACY, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

S. 865 (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 RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY VETERANS HALL OF FAME.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

S. 26 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 50-21-107 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT OWNERS OF WATERCRAFT OF MORE THAN SEVENTY HORSEPOWER MUST CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE OF AT LEAST FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS OF COVERAGE PER OCCURRENCE, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE COLLECTION OF FINES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

Senator HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SEDU-26.DB0002S), which was withdrawn:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 50-21-107(B), (C), and (D) and inserting:
  (B) It shall be unlawful for the owner of a watercraft of more than seventy horsepower, or a personal watercraft or specialty propcraft, that is titled in this State or is documented by the United States Coast Guard with a hailing port located in this State to allow the operation of the watercraft, personal watercraft, or specialty propcraft on the waters of this State unless it is covered by a liability insurance policy that has been issued by an insurance company. The insurance policy must provide at least fifty thousand dollars of combined liability coverage for bodily injury to others, or the destruction of the property of others, resulting from any one occurrence.

(C) Each applicant for a watercraft title and registration, and each applicant for a registration renewal, of a watercraft of more than seventy horsepower, or a personal watercraft or specialty propcraft, shall certify to the department that the watercraft, personal watercraft, or specialty propcraft is covered by an insurance policy that meets the requirements of this section.

(D)(C) Insurance companies shall not be required to provide proof of insurance that may be conveniently carried if the insurance coverage is provided as part of a homeowner's insurance policy. Insurance companies are not required to notify the department of any lapse or cancelation in insurance coverage.

Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 50-21-107(E)(1) and (2) and inserting:
  (E)(1) If a watercraft of more than seventy horsepower, or a personal watercraft or specialty propcraft, is involved in an accident on the waters of this State, then failurefails to present proof of insurance coverage upon demand by appropriate law enforcement officers, that meets the requirements of this section creates a rebuttable presumption is created that the watercraft, personal watercraft, or specialty propcraft is uninsured.

(2) Upon a showing that liability coverage required by this section was in effect at the time of an accident, a judge may dismiss a charge imposed under this section, and the penalties may not be imposed. However, if the operator of a watercraft of more than seventy horsepower, or a personal watercraft or specialty propcraft, is involved in an accident on the waters of this State and the watercraft, personal watercraft, or specialty propcraft is not insured as required by this section, then the owner of the watercraft, personal watercraft, or specialty propcraft shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

On motion of Senator HEMBREE, the amendment was withdrawn.

Senator HUTTO explained the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

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

Alexander                 Allen                     Campsen
Cash                      Cromer                    Davis
Devine                    Elliott                   Gambrell
Goldfinch                 Graham                    Hembree
Hutto                     Jackson                   Matthews
Rankin                    Rice                      Sabb
Stubbs                    Tedder                    Walker
Williams                  Young                     Zell

Adams                     Bennett                   Blackmon
Bright                    Climer                    Corbin
Fernandez                 Garrett                   Grooms
Johnson                   Kennedy                   Kimbrell
Leber                     Massey                    Peeler
Reichenbach               Sutton                    Turner
Verdin

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

S. 76 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms, Young, Goldfinch, Sabb, Alexander, Kennedy, Cromer, Zell, Williams and Garrett: 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 BRIGHT, the Bill was carried over.

S. 768 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander, Kimbrell, Verdin, Massey, Hembree, Turner, Williams, Rice, Stubbs, Davis, Garrett and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-250, RELATING TO THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE EXEMPTION TO ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS AND TO REDUCE THE AGE ELIGIBILITY TO SIXTY; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-266, RELATING TO THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-280, RELATING TO THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-290, RELATING TO THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO GENERAL EXEMPTION FROM TAXES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-11-150, RELATING TO DEDUCTIONS FOR THE TRUST FUND FOR TAX RELIEF, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 12-37-245 RELATING TO THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION.

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

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, C. 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.

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

S. 832 (Word version) -- Senators Sutton, Graham, Goldfinch and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 53-1-20, RELATING TO COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES EXEMPT FROM THE PROHIBITION ON SUNDAY PUBLIC SPORTS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO CAMPUS EVENTS AND LAND USE APPROVAL, TO PROVIDE THAT NO COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY MAY PROHIBIT, RESTRICT, CONDITION, DELAY, OR REQUIRE LAND USE APPROVAL FOR EVENTS HELD ON THE CAMPUS OF A STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING BASED ON ZONING ORDINANCES OR LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS, AND TO CLARIFY THE APPLICATION OF GENERALLY APPLICABLE SAFETY LAWS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.

Senator SUTTON explained the Bill.

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

S. 695 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Graham and Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA SAFEGUARDING AMERICAN VETERANS' BENEFITS ACT"; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 8 TO CHAPTER 11, TITLE 25, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, SET GUIDELINES AND LIMITS FOR COMPENSATION, MEMORIALIZE TERMS, AND STATE PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE.

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

S. 718 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 45-2-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH AN OPERATOR OF ANY RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK MAY HAVE ANY TRANSIENT GUEST OF THE PARK REMOVED, AND TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR REMOVAL OF THE GUEST.

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

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

The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

S. 691 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF WHITESTONE GLENDALE ROAD AND BETHESDA ROAD IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY "CHIEF ROBERT E. BROWN SR. MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

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

At 3:31 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.

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

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

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE INTERRUPTED DEBATE.

S. 52 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Cash, Gambrell, Grooms, Jackson, Devine, Climer, Johnson, Adams, Turner, Kimbrell, Sutton, Blackmon, Williams, Alexander, Verdin, Garrett and Zell: 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)

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

Senator HUTTO asked unanimous consent to proceed to Amendment No. 42.

Senators HUTTO and HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SR-52.CEM0010S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 21, by striking Section 17-22-58 and inserting:
  Section 17-22-58.   In addition to any other intervention program requirement, a condition of admission to the pretrial intervention program of a person charged with driving under the influence first offense or driving under with an unlawful alcohol concentration first offense, must participate and complete a DUI victim impact panel, as defined in Section 56-5-2930(H), have a breath alcohol ignition interlock device installed for six months, monitored by the ignition interlock program of the Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services, for the duration of participation in the intervention program and participate and complete the South Carolina Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program "ADSAP".

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator ADAMS asked unanimous consent to proceed to Amendment No. 34.

Senators ADAMS, HEMBREE, HUTTO, SABB, GARRETT, TEDDER, JOHNSON, and WALKER proposed the following amendment (SJ-52.SW0011S), which was carried over:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting SECTION 12 from the bill.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.

On motion of Senator ADAMS, the amendment was carried over.

On motion of Sen. MASSEY, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 29 was withdrawn.

On motion of Senator OTT, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 28 was withdrawn.

On motion of Senator JOHNSON, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 1 was withdrawn.

On motion of Senator WALKER, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 22 was withdrawn.

Senator HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SEDU-52.DB0011S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 56-5-2930(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
    (1) for a first offense, by a fine of four hundred dollars or imprisonment for not less than forty-eight hours nor more than thirty days, or boththen the person must be punished by a fine of five hundred dollars or imprisonment for not less than seventy-two hours nor more than thirty days, or both. The fine may not be suspended, Howeverhowever, in lieu of the forty-eightseventy-two-hour minimum imprisonment, the court may provide for forty-eightseventy-two-hours of public service employment. The minimum forty-eightseventy-two-hour imprisonment or public service employment must be served at a time when the person is not working and does not interfere with his regular employment under terms and conditions the court considers proper. However, the court may not compel an offender to perform public service employment in lieu of the minimum forty-eightseventy-two hour sentence. If the person's alcohol concentration is at least ten one-hundredths of one percent but less than sixteen one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by a fine of five hundred dollars or imprisonment for not less than seventy-two hours nor more than thirty days, or both. The fine may not be suspended, Howeverhowever, in lieu of the seventy-two-hour minimum imprisonment, the court may provide for seventy-two hours of public service employment. The minimum seventy-two-hour imprisonment or public service employment must be served at a time when the person is not working and does not interfere with his regular employment under terms and conditions as the court considers proper. However, the court may not compel an offender to perform public service employment in lieu of the minimum sentence. If the person's alcohol concentration is sixteen one-hundredths of one percent or more, then the person must be punished by a fine of one thousand dollars or imprisonment for not less than thirty days nor more than ninety days, or both. The fine may not be suspended, Howeverhowever, in lieu of the thirty-day minimum imprisonment, the court may provide for thirty days of public service employment. The minimum thirty days imprisonment or public service employment must be served at a time when the person is not working and does not interfere with his regular employment under terms and conditions as the court considers proper. However, the court may not compel an offender to perform public service employment instead of the thirty-day minimum sentence. Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 22-3-540, 22-3-545, and 22-3-550, a first offense charged for this item may be tried in magistrates court;

(2) for a second offense, by a fine of not less than two thousand one hundred dollars nor more than five thousand one hundred dollars, and imprisonment for not less than five days nor more than one year then the person must be punished by a fine of not less than two thousand five hundred dollars nor more than five thousand five hundred dollars and imprisonment for not less than thirty days nor more than two years. However, the fine imposed by this item must not be suspended in an amount less than one thousand one hundred dollars. If the person's alcohol concentration is at least ten one-hundredths of one percent but less than sixteen one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by a fine of not less than two thousand five hundred dollars nor more than five thousand five hundred dollars and imprisonment for not less than thirty days nor more than two years. However, the fine imposed by this item must not be suspended in an amount less than one thousand one hundred dollars If the person's alcohol concentration is sixteen one-hundredths of one percent or more, then the person must be punished by a fine of not less than three thousand five hundred dollars nor more than six thousand five hundred dollars and imprisonment for not less than ninety days nor more than three years. However, the fine imposed by this item must not be suspended in an amount less than one thousand one hundred dollars. A person convicted of a second offense, in addition to carrying the automobile insurance required by Section 38-77-140, must secure an additional surety written in the amount of three hundred thousand dollars to be maintained for a period of three years. Proof of such policy must be submitted by the insurer to the Department of Motor Vehicles in the form of an SR-22 in order for the person's appropriate driving privileges to be reinstated; or

Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 56-5-2930(A)(3) and inserting:
    (4)(3) for a fourth third or subsequent offense, by imprisonment for not less than one year nor more than five years. If the person's alcohol concentration is at least ten one-hundredths of one percent but less than sixteen one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by imprisonment for not less than two years nor more than six years. If the person's alcohol concentration is sixteen one-hundredths of one percent or more, then the person must be punished by imprisonment for not less than three years nor more than seven years. A person convicted of a fourth third or subsequent offense, in addition to carrying the automobile insurance required by Section 38-77-140, must secure an additional surety written in the amount of five hundred thousand dollars to be maintained for a period of three years. Proof of such policy must be submitted by the insurer to the Department of Motor Vehicles in the form of an SR-22 in order for the person's appropriate driving privileges to be reinstated.

Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 56-5-2933(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
    (1) for a first offense, if the person's alcohol concentration is at least eight one-hundredths of one percent but less than ten one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by a fine of four hundred dollars or imprisonment for not less than forty-eight hours nor more than thirty days, or both. HoweverThe fine may not be suspended, however, in lieu of the forty-eight hour minimum imprisonment, the court may provide for forty-eight hours of public service employment. The minimum forty-eight-hour imprisonment or public service employment must be served at a time when the person is not working and does not interfere with his regular employment under terms and conditions the court considers proper. However, the court may not compel an offender to perform public service employment in lieu of the minimum forty-eight-hour sentence. If the person's alcohol concentration is at least ten one-hundredths of one percent but less than sixteen one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by a fine of five hundred dollars or imprisonment for not less than seventy-two hours nor more than thirty days, or both. HoweverThe fine may not be suspended, however, in lieu of the seventy-two-hour minimum imprisonment, the court may provide for seventy-two hours of public service employment. The minimum seventy-two hour imprisonment or public service employment must be served at a time when the person is not working and does not interfere with his regular employment under terms and conditions as the court considers proper. However, the court may not compel an offender to perform public service employment in lieu of the minimum sentence. If the person's alcohol concentration is sixteen one-hundredths of one percent or more, then the person must be punished by a fine of one thousand dollars or imprisonment for not less than thirty days nor more than ninety days, or both. HoweverThe fine may not be suspended, however, in lieu of the thirty-day minimum imprisonment, the court may provide for thirty days of public service employment. The minimum thirty days imprisonment or public service employment must be served at a time when the person is not working and does not interfere with his regular employment under terms and conditions as the court considers proper. However, the court may not compel an offender to perform public service employment instead of the thirty-day minimum sentence. Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 22-3-540, 22-3-545, and 22-3-550, a first offense charged for this item may be tried in magistrates court;

(2) for a second offense, if the person's alcohol concentration is at least eight one-hundredths of one percent but less than ten one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by a fine of not less than two thousand one hundred dollars nor more than five thousand one hundred dollars, and imprisonment for not less than five days nor more than one year. However, the fine imposed by this item must not be suspended in an amount less than one thousand one hundred dollars. If the person's alcohol concentration is at least ten one-hundredths of one percent but less than sixteen one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by a fine of not less than two thousand five hundred dollars nor more than five thousand five hundred dollars and imprisonment for not less than thirty days nor more than two years. However, the fine imposed by this item must not be suspended in an amount less than one thousand one hundred dollars. If the person's alcohol concentration is sixteen one-hundredths of one percent or more, then the person must be punished by a fine of not less than three thousand five hundred dollars nor more than six thousand five hundred dollars and imprisonment for not less than ninety days nor more than three years. However, the fine imposed by this item must not be suspended in an amount less than one thousand one hundred dollars; or

Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 56-5-2933(A)(3) and inserting:
    (4)(3) for a fourth third or subsequent offense, if the person's alcohol concentration is at least eight one-hundredths of one percent but less than ten one-hundredths of a percent, then the person must be punished by imprisonment for not less than one year nor more than five years. If the person's alcohol concentration is at least ten one-hundredths of one percent but less than sixteen one-hundredths of one percent, then the person must be punished by imprisonment for not less than two years nor more than six years. If the person's alcohol concentration is sixteen one-hundredths of one percent or more, then the person must be punished by imprisonment for not less than three years nor more than seven years.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator HEMBREE asked unanimous consent to proceed to Amendment No. 43B.

Senator TURNER assumed the Chair.

On motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, Senators HUTTO, ALEXANDER and RANKIN were granted leave to attend a meeting and were granted leave to vote from the balcony.

Senators HEMBREE and OTT proposed the following amendment (SJ-52.MB0037S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 25, by striking Section 16-1-60(B) and inserting:
  (B) At the time of sentencing for a conviction of Section 50-21-113(A)(2) or Section 56-5-2945(B)(2), the judge may suspend the designation of violent offense and must include findings on the record documenting the departure from Section 16-1-60(A) for this conviction. The Department of Corrections may allow the person to participate in work programs, education, and rehabilitation that he would not otherwise be eligible for due to the conviction for Section 50-21-113(A)(2) or Section 56-5-2945(B)(2). However, the person shall not accumulate credit for time for his participation. The judge may not order a departure if the person has additional convictions before the judge that are violent offenses. For a person convicted serving an active sentence prior toas of the effective date of this subsection, athe person may petition the circuit court where the conviction occurred to remove the designation of violent offense from his record, provided the victim's family consents and the only violent offense on his record is Section 50-21-113(A)(2) or Section 56-5-2945(B)(2). The person must petition the court prior to his release.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators CROMER, VERDIN and PEELER desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of the amendment.

Debate was interrupted by adjournment.

Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Initial Appointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Greenville County:
Cheryl C. Brewer, ED.D., 100 Hedge Rose Court, Travelers Rest, SC 29690 VICE New Seat

Senator BRIGHT desired to be recorded as voting against the confirmation of Cheryl C. Brewer.

Pursuant to an invitation the Honorable Speaker and House of Representatives appeared in the Senate Chamber on February 3, 2026, at 4:00 P.M. and the following Acts and Joint Resolutions were ratified:

(R98, S. 336 (Word version)) -- Senators Alexander, Massey and Rankin: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 2-19-90, RELATING TO JUDICIAL ELECTIONS BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION, SO AS TO SET THE FIRST WEDNESDAY OF MARCH FOR THE ELECTIONS OF JUDGES BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 2-19-80, RELATING TO THE JUDICIAL MERIT SELECTION COMMISSION AND NOMINATION OF CANDIDATES, SO AS TO REVISE THE TIME FRAME FOR THE RELEASE OF THE COMMISSION'S FORMAL REPORT AS TO QUALIFICATIONS OF ITS NOMINEES.
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(R99, S. 779 (Word version)) -- Senators Massey, Hutto, Zell, Devine and Adams: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL RECEIVE A MONTHLY LEGISLATIVE EXPENSE ALLOWANCE OF ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS; TO PROVIDE FOR THE ALLOCATION OF LEGISLATIVE EXPENSE ALLOWANCE PAYMENTS BETWEEN MEMBERS WHOSE SEATS WERE VACATED DURING FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AND THE MEMBERS ELECTED TO FILL THE VACANCY; AND TO PROVIDE THAT MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WHOSE SEATS WERE VACATED DUE TO THE MEMBER BEING CONVICTED OF OR PLEADING GUILTY OR NOLO CONTENDERE TO A FELONY ARE NOT ENTITLED TO A LEGISLATIVE EXPENSE ALLOWANCE PAYMENT PURSUANT TO THIS JOINT RESOLUTION.
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(R100, 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: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 80 TO TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COVERED ONLINE SERVICE SHALL EXERCISE REASONABLE CARE IN THE USE OF MINORS' PERSONAL DATA, TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS FOR COVERED ONLINE SERVICES, TO RESTRICT THE AMOUNT OF PERSONAL DATA OF A MINOR THAT MAY BE COLLECTED, TO PROVIDE FOR PARENTAL CONTROLS, TO PROVIDE FOR AN ANNUAL REPORT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ENFORCEMENT.
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On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.

On motion of Senators PEELER, 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, RANKIN, REICHENBACH, RICE, SABB, STUBBS, SUTTON, TEDDER, TURNER, VERDIN, WALKER, WILLIAMS, YOUNG and ZELL, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mrs. Patsy Ann Hawkins Shealy of Chapin, S.C. Patsy was the mother of our beloved former finance committee budget director Mike Shealy. Patsy graduated from Prosperity High School and trained at Columbia Hospital before earning the credentials of registered nurse. She worked in private and geriatric nursing and served as school nurse for Chapin Elementary. Patsy was a member of Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church where she served the church through Altar Guild and on the bereavement team. Patsy was a loving mother and doting grandmother who will be dearly missed.

At 4:22 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 1:00 P.M.

This web page was last updated on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 5:03 P.M.