NO. 22
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:
Romans 12:6
Paul reminds believers in Rome (he's actually speaking to all of us, it seems to me) that: "We have different gifts according to the grace given us."
Let us pray: Now and then, dear Lord, it's a fascinating exercise to pause for a bit and to just think about the rich and incredible variety of gifts possessed by each one of these servants of Yours here in the Senate of South Carolina. Truly, the depth of knowledge, the mix of experiences, the often fascinating and even unique opportunities many individuals have had, how marvelous and grand! Each one of these Senators and aides brings to his or her work a special background that makes each one of them able to strengthen this Senate -- and consequently our State of South Carolina -- in so many absolutely positive ways, using their collective wisdom to tackle the challenges of everyday. We praise You for this blessing, O Lord. In Your loving name we humbly pray. 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 Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
Senators OTT recorded his presence subsequent to the Call of the Senate.
Senator BENNETT introduced Dr. C. Byran Jordan of Dorchester, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, at 11:54 A.M., Senator WALKER was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator GAMBRELL, at 12:02 P.M., Senator GOLDFINCH was granted a leave of absence for today.
Senator CHAPLIN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator CHAPLIN, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator HEMBREE rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 175 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 715 (Word version) Sens. Rice and Elliott
S. 768 (Word version) Sen. Young
S. 936 (Word version) Sen. Stubbs
The following were introduced:
S. 939 (Word version) -- Senators Chaplin and Stubbs: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-115 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A NON-VESTED MEMBER OF THE POLICE OFFICER'S RETIREMENT SYSTEM WHO DIES IN THE LINE OF DUTY SHALL RECEIVE A ONE-TIME LUMP SUM BENEFIT PAYMENT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 940 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin, Cromer, Blackmon, Turner, Climer, Grooms, Massey, Bennett, Elliott, Hembree and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-73-10, RELATING TO THE LIABILITY OF A SELLER FOR SELLING A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT, SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 15-73-30, RELATING TO THE INTENT OF CHAPTER 73 CONCERNING THE LIABILITY OF A SELLER FOR SELLING A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT, SO AS TO PROVIDE LIMITATIONS ON THE LIABILITY OF A DISTRIBUTOR, WHOLESALER, DEALER, RETAILER, OR SELLER OF A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 941 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell, Williams, Blackmon, Bright, Zell, Leber, Rice, Reichenbach, Cash, Goldfinch, Climer, Young, Garrett, Verdin, Hutto, Sabb, Sutton, Stubbs and Chaplin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2740, RELATING TO "C" FUNDS, SO AS TO DELETE A PROVISION REQUIRING A PERCENTAGE OF "C" FUNDS BE EXPENDED ON THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 942 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "CHARITY PROTECTION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 33-56-65 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A STATE AGENCY OR STATE OFFICIAL FROM IMPOSING ANNUAL FILING OR REPORTING REQUIREMENTS THAT ARE MORE BURDENSOME THAN THE REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED IN CHAPTER 56, TITLE 33 AND TO PROVIDE SOME EXCEPTIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
S. 943 (Word version) -- Senator Chaplin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE SECTION OF HIGHWAY 151 IN FRONT OF THE SHERRIF'S OFFICE IN DARLINGTON COUNTY THE "DEPUTY FRANK DEVIN MASON MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 944 (Word version) -- Senators Sutton and Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF THEIR ACTIVATION; HONOR THEIR EXTRAORDINARY LEGACY OF SERVICE, VALOR, AND PERSEVERANCE; AND RECOGNIZE THE COURAGE, SACRIFICE, AND ENDURING LEGACY OF SOUTH CAROLINA'S OWN TUSKEGEE AIRMEN.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 945 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A SENATE Resolution TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MENDY CORDER, MUNICIPAL CLERK FOR THE CITY OF CAYCE, UPON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT AFTER NEARLY THREE DECADES 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.
H. 4813 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, C. Mitchell, Robbins and Oremus: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 8-21-1010 AND 8-21-1060, BOTH RELATING TO FEES AND COSTS TO BE COLLECTED BY MAGISTRATES, BOTH SO AS TO INCREASE VARIOUS FEES AND COSTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 22-3-340, RELATING TO ASSESSMENTS ON FILINGS IN MAGISTRATES COURT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ASSESSMENT ON SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT FILINGS AND ALL OTHER CIVIL FILINGS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 5064 (Word version) -- Reps. Yow, Hayes, C. Mitchell, Luck and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-53-510, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE NORTHEASTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE AREA COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REPRESENTATION FROM LOCAL INDUSTRY MAY INCLUDE CERTAIN EX OFFICIO MEMBERS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
S. 343 (Word version) -- Senators Corbin, Cash, Rice, Garrett, Kimbrell, Leber and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-29-175 SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN INFORMED CONSENT PROTOCOL THAT MUST BE FOLLOWED PRIOR TO A CERTAIN COVID-19 VACCINE BEING ADMINISTERED OR RECEIVED.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:
H. 3223 (Word version) -- Rep. Bailey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 69, TITLE 40 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING THE USE OF TELEHEALTH FOR VETERINARY SERVICES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-69-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO REMOVE AN OBSOLETE DEFINITION.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:
H. 3254 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Erickson and Bradley: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-32, RELATING TO SPECIAL EXAMINATIONS AND RELATED CRITERIA REQUIRED OF APPLICANTS FOR PERMANENT MEDICAL LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD MAY WAIVE CERTAIN EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS FOUND TO POSSESS THE GENERAL MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED TO COMPETENTLY PRACTICE MEDICINE.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:
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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, South Carolina Board of Long-Term Health Care Administrators, with the term to commence June 9, 2026, and to expire June 9, 2029
Nonproprietary Nursing Home Administrator:
William H. Birmingham, 16C Hartwell Villas, Anderson, SC 29626
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Nursing, with the term to commence December 31, 2025, and to expire December 31, 2029
General Public:
Robert J. Wolff, 104 Cyclamen Court, Columbia, SC 29212-2052
Received as information.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Board of Pharmacy, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2032
4th Congressional District:
Timothy F. Gentilcore, 108 General Store Way, Greenville, SC 29650 VICE Michael Bedenbaugh
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina Panel for Dietetics, with the term to commence May 30, 2025, and to expire May 30, 2027
Dietician, Consulting:
Beth Griffith, 934 Sherwood Circle, Lancaster, SC 29720
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
S. 12 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-205 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY TO JOINTLY OWN, AS TENANTS-IN-COMMON OR THROUGH A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, WITH INVESTOR-OWNED UTILITIES, ELECTRICAL GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION FACILITIES.
On motion of Senator RANKIN, the Bill was recommitted to Committee on Judiciary.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
S. 160 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "DIETITIAN LICENSURE COMPACT ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 1 TO CHAPTER 21, TITLE 40, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSES, FUNCTIONS, OPERATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS FOR THE COMPACT; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-20-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE DIETETICS LICENSURE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE A DEFINITION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-20-60, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR LICENSURE UNDER THE DIETETICS LICENSURE ACT, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS OF APPLICANTS.
S. 70 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-710 SO AS TO ENHANCE LOCAL SCHOOL GOVERNANCE; BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-720 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-730 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ADOPT AND REVISE AS NECESSARY A MODEL CODE OF ETHICS FOR LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS, AND REQUIRE THAT A LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD SHALL ADOPT A LOCAL CODE OF ETHICS AT A REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AND SUBMIT A COPY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION WITHIN THIRTY DAYS OF ADOPTION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-19-45, RELATING TO MANDATORY ORIENTATION FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARDS OF TRUSTEES AND COUNTY BOARDS OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ADOPT A MODEL TRAINING PROGRAM, WHICH MUST INCLUDE A LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAM.
On motion of Senator TURNER, the Bill was carried over.
S. 858 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-700, RELATING TO THE DIVISION FOR REVIEW OF THE FOSTER CARE OF CHILDREN'S BOARD, SO AS TO CHANGE THE STANDARDS FOR SERVING ON THE BOARD AND THE PROCEDURE FOR TERMS OF OFFICE; TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN STANDARDS FOR LOCAL REVIEW BOARDS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-710, RELATING TO LOCAL BOARDS FOR REVIEW, SO AS TO GIVE THE DIRECTOR AUTHORIZATION TO APPOINT OR REMOVE A MEMBER OF A LOCAL BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-740, RELATING TO MEETINGS OF LOCAL BOARDS AND STAFFING, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO EACH LOCAL BOARD FOR MEETINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-760, RELATING TO IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE DEPARTMENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-770, RELATING TO COOPERATION OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE AGENCIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE ALL PUBLIC AGENCIES PROVIDING SERVICES TO CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Bill was carried over.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
H. 3798 (Word version) -- Reps. Murphy, G.M. Smith, Brewer, T. Moore, Guest, Hager, Yow, C. Mitchell, W. Newton, Lawson, Stavrinakis, Govan, Erickson, Bradley, Weeks, Hart, Williams, Rivers and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 25-1-180 SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN CRITERIA FOR MILITARY CHAPLAINS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT MILITARY CHAPLAINS HAVE THE PRIVILEGE TO REFUSE TO DISCLOSE CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS.
The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
S. 619 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell and Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-27-610, RELATING TO PRIORITY OF DISTRIBUTION FOR CLAIMS, SO AS TO ADD FUNDING AGREEMENTS.
S. 697 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO TRANSFER THE SOUTH CAROLINA 211 NETWORK TO THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS; TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 37-6-515 SO AS TO CREATE THE SOUTH CAROLINA 211 NETWORK WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 1-11-770, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA 211 NETWORK, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
S. 780 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 37-23-20, RELATING TO HIGH-COST AND CONSUMER HOME LOANS DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CONVENTIONAL MORTGAGE RATE MEANS THE AVERAGE PRIME OFFER RATE.
On motion of Senator CLIMER, the Bill was carried over.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
S. 857 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-1-20, RELATING TO INSURANCE LAW DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "CONTINGENT DEFERRED ANNUITY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-69-220, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS FROM OPERATION OF THE STANDARD NONFORFEITURE LAW FOR INDIVIDUAL DEFERRED ANNUITIES, SO AS TO ADD AN EXCEPTION FOR CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE STANDARD NONFORFEITURE LAW FOR INDIVIDUAL DEFERRED ANNUITIES, AND TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE MAY PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR NONFORFEITURE BENEFITS FOR CONTINGENT DEFERRED ANNUITIES IN THE DISCRETION OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-44-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE MANAGING GENERAL AGENTS ACT, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE.
S. 768 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander, Kimbrell, Verdin, Massey, Hembree, Turner, Williams, Rice, Stubbs, Davis, Garrett, Campsen, Martin, Leber, Zell, Grooms and Young: 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
On motion of Senator GROOMS, under Rule 26B, the Senate agreed to take up a further amendment on third reading.
Senator RICE proposed the following amendment (LC-768.DG0012S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 12-37-253(B)(1) and inserting:
(1) if the person was eligible to claim the exemption pursuant to Section 12-37-250 in Property Tax Year 2025 and remains eligible thereafterotherwise qualifies;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 12-37-253(B)(2)(b) and inserting:
(b) when the person has been a resident of this State for the entire at least five entire property tax years immediately precedingand filed an individual income tax return for at least five tax years in this State at any time before the application; or
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 12-37-253(B)(3)(b) and inserting:
(b) when the person has been a resident of this State for the entire at least ten entire property tax years immediately preceding and filed an individual income tax return for at least ten tax years in this State at any time before the application.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator RICE explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
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 Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered sent to the House.
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 HUTTO, 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 CORBIN, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the Bill was carried over.
S. 787 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 37-3-110 SO AS TO DEFINE BRIDGE LOANS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 37-3-402, RELATING TO BALLOON PAYMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO BRIDGE LOANS.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill.
Senator GAMBRELL 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 Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 420 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-5-10, RELATING TO AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS SO AS TO ALLOW A QUALIFIED RETIREE-POST EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT TRUST MAINTAINED FOR THE BENEFIT OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISION RETIREES TO INVEST IN CERTAIN CORPORATE DEBT ISSUED BY UNITED STATES CORPORATIONS.
Senator MARTIN 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.
S. 694 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-40, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN AIKEN COUNTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF THE BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS DETERMINES THAT A PRECINCT CONTAINS NO SUITABLE LOCATION FOR A POLLING PLACE, THE BOARD, UPON APPROVAL OF A MAJORITY OF THE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, MAY LOCATE THE POLLING PLACE INSIDE THE COUNTY AND WITHIN FIVE MILES OF THE PRECINCT'S BOUNDARIES.
Senator MARTIN 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.
S. 723 (Word version) -- Senators Blackmon, Climer, Kennedy, Reichenbach, Rice and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR DEFINED; PRESUMPTIONS; DEFENSES; PENALTIES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MINIMUM PENALTY TO FIVE YEARS' IMPRISONMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR DEFINED; PRESUMPTIONS; DEFENSES; PENALTIES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MINIMUM PENALTY TO THREE YEARS' IMPRISONMENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR DEFINED; PENALTIES; EXCEPTION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES BASED ON THE NUMBER OF IMAGES POSSESSED, INCLUDING A PENALTY OF UP TO TEN YEARS IF THERE ARE ONE TO TWENTY-FIVE IMAGES, ONE TO TEN YEARS IF THERE ARE TWENTY-SIX TO TWO HUNDRED FIFTY IMAGES, AND A PENALTY OF TWO TO TEN YEARS IF THERE ARE MORE THAN TWO HUNDRED FIFTY IMAGES; AND TO ESTABLISH THAT A PERSON WHO IS REQUIRED TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER AND VIOLATES THE PROVISIONS OF THE SECTION, UPON CONVICTION, MUST SERVE A MINIMUM OF FIVE YEARS.
Senator MARTIN 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.
S. 751 (Word version) -- Senators Sutton, Ott and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-2510 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS TO INCLUDE NITROUS OXIDE AND NITROUS OXIDE PRODUCTS; BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-2520 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF SELLING OR PROVIDING NITROUS OXIDE TO MINORS, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO CREATE A CIVIL PENALTY FOR A MINOR THAT MISREPRESENTS HIS AGE TO ATTEMPT TO OR TO PURCHASE NITROUS OXIDE; BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-2530 SO AS TO CREATE A CIVIL PENALTY FOR RETAILERS THAT DISPLAY OR STORE NITROUS OXIDE IN A RETAIL LOCATION WHERE MINORS CAN ACCESS NITROUS OXIDE OR NITROUS OXIDE PRODUCTS; BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-2540 SO AS TO ESTABLISH EXCEPTIONS TO THIS ARTICLE FOR COMMERCIAL USE.
Senator MARTIN 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.
S. 853 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Hutto, Sutton and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-120, RELATING TO THE ABANDONED BUILDINGS REVITALIZATION ACT DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT THE EXISTENCE OF AN INCOME-PRODUCING USE PRIOR TO THE PERIOD OF ABANDONMENT IS NOT A REQUIREMENT FOR ELIGIBILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-130, RELATING TO APPLICABILITY, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-140, RELATING TO ELIGIBILITY FOR THE CREDIT, SO AS TO CLARIFY CERTAIN TIMING CONSIDERATIONS RELATED TO THE FILING OF A NOTICE OF INTENT TO REHABILITATE AN ABANDONED BUILDING AND TO CLARIFY THAT ABANDONED BUILDING TAX CREDITS MAY NOT SERVE AS COLLATERAL FOR ANY DEBT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-160, RELATING TO THE CERTIFICATION OF ABANDONED BUILDING SITES, SO AS TO REMOVE A REQUIREMENT FOR CERTAIN CERTIFICATIONS OF STATE-OWNED ABANDONED BUILDING SITES.
Senator MARTIN 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.
H. 3556 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Schuessler, Guest, Taylor and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-17-560, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF A POLITICAL PARTY TO HEAR CERTAIN PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO ALSO HEAR PROTESTS AND CONTESTS IN THE CASE OF COUNTY OFFICERS, LESS THAN COUNTY OFFICERS, AND MUNICIPAL OFFICERS, TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO REQUIRE THE FILING OF ANY PROTEST OR CONTEST TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY A BOND WITH SURETY, AND TO PROVIDE FOR APPEALS FROM DECISIONS BY THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-17-570, RELATING TO HEARINGS OF PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO EXTEND THE TIME IN WHICH THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MUST CONDUCT SUCH HEARINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-80, RELATING TO MUNICIPAL PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SUCH PROTESTS AND CONTESTS ARE TO BE FILED, HEARD, AND DECIDED IN THE MANNER PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 7-17-560 AND 7-17-570; AND BY REPEALING SECTIONS 7-17-520, 7-17-530, 7-17-540, 7-17-550, 7-17-580, AND 7-17-590 ALL RELATING TO PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS FOR CERTAIN OFFICES.
Senator MARTIN 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.
H. 3557 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Pedalino, Taylor, Guest, Crawford, Schuessler and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-15, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS TO RUN AS A CANDIDATE IN GENERAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO SHORTEN THE CANDIDATE FILING PERIOD, TO REQUIRE ALL CANDIDATES FROM EACH POLITICAL PARTY IN THIS STATE TO PAY A FILING FEE, AND TO AUTHORIZE POLITICAL PARTIES TO CHARGE A CERTIFICATION FEE TO ALL CANDIDATES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-210, RELATING TO THE FILING OF PARTY PLEDGES BY CANDIDATES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE DATE BY WHICH A PARTY PLEDGE MUST BE FILED.
Senator MARTIN 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.
H. 3858 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, Pedalino, Lowe, Mitchell, M.M. Smith, B.J. Cox, Chapman, Davis, Sessions, Erickson, Guffey, B.L. Cox, Hewitt, Teeple, Hartnett, Pope, Rutherford, Brittain, Wooten, Guest, Hager, J.L. Johnson, B. Newton, Bailey, Bustos, Gagnon, Gilliam, Herbkersman, Holman, Jordan, Lawson, Martin, Murphy, Robbins, Ballentine, T. Moore, Montgomery, Sanders, Atkinson, Ligon, Gibson, J. Moore, Caskey, Moss, Huff, Beach, Terribile, Kilmartin, Hardee, Taylor, Yow, J.E. Johnson, Landing, Frank, Forrest, Oremus, Kirby, Hixon, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ARTICLE 1 OF CHAPTER 23, TITLE 50, SECTION 50-23-345, AND SECTION 50-23-375, ALL RELATING TO THE TITLING OF WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTORS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT OUTBOARD MOTORS BE TITLED; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3210, RELATING TO TAX NOTICES FOR BOATS AND BOAT MOTORS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3210, RELATING TO TAX NOTICES FOR BOATS, BOAT MOTORS, AND WATERCRAFT, SO AS TO ALLOW THE AUDITOR TO CONSOLIDATE THE TAX NOTICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-23-370, RELATING TO WATERCRAFT CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR FIFTY PERCENT OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF WATERCRAFT.
Senator MARTIN 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.
H. 5045 (Word version) -- Rep. King: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SQUIRE ROAD IN THE CITY OF ROCK HILL IN YORK COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH OGDEN ROAD TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH FALLS ROAD "ARCHBISHOP B.R. WILSON MEMORIAL ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
At 12:06 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. 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.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Bill was carried over.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE INTERRUPTED DEBATE.
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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator TURNER, the Bill was carried over.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator CHAPLIN, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Deputy Frank Devin Mason of Darlington, S.C. Devin was known for his smile, generous heart, laughter and his unwavering devotion to his family and friends. He loved playing sports and was a member of the Black's Tire team. Devin graduated from the South Caorlina Criminal Justice Academy in March 2025 and became a deputy with the Darlington County Sheriff's Department. Devine was a loving fiancé, doting father and devoted public servant who will be dearly missed.
At 12:15 P.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.
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