NO. 24
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 12:00 Noon, 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:
Psalm 69:1
We recall how David, desperate for relief, called out to the Lord there in Egypt, saying: "Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck."
Join me as we bow in prayer, my friends: O blessed Lord, like David, we, too, sometimes find ourselves overwhelmed by the world around us. And here with Passover season underway, we likely think of Your promises of hope, O God, and how You expect us to respond to Your care. Simply put, the straight forward answer is that we ourselves are not only to be ever faithful to You, but also we are to serve as women and men who are dedicated to doing our very best to bring about meaningful and positive results for all of the citizens of South Carolina. And may that goal always be the key to what drives and undergirds the work of this Senate, no matter how great the challenges are. In Your loving name we humbly pray, O 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 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 Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
At 12:12 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.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the Senate agreed that, when the Senate adjourns today, it stand adjourned to meet at 12:15 P.M. tomorrow for the purpose of attending the Joint Assembly, and at the conclusion of the Joint Assembly, the Senate will stand in recess for one hour.
The following appointment was transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Initial Appointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Chesterfield County:
Jeremy Keith Lear, 205 East Godfrey Street, Pageland, SC 29728 VICE John Kennedy Melton
Senator YOUNG introduced Dr. Edward Yeh of Lexington, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, at 1:15 P.M., Senator TEDDER was granted a leave of absence until 3:00 P.M.
On motion of Senator WALKER, at 2:29 P.M., Senator JACKSON was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
Senator BLACKMON rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator CHAPLIN, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator BLACKMON, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator DAVIS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 30 (Word version) Sen. Davis
S. 31 (Word version) Sen. Davis
S. 343 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 446 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 531 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 650 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 715 (Word version) Sen. Turner
S. 723 (Word version) Sen. Garrett
S. 853 (Word version) Sens. Turner, Stubbs, Matthews, Campsen, Zell and Kimbrell
S. 903 (Word version) Sens. Grooms and Johnson
S. 919 (Word version) Sen. Kennedy
S. 936 (Word version) Sens. Johnson, Hembree, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Bennett, Blackmon, Climer, Turner, Grooms, Campsen, Cromer, Sutton, Kennedy, Walker, Tedder, Williams, Rankin and Hutto
The following were introduced:
S. 946 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF GEORGE A. MALONE AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 947 (Word version) -- Senators Devine and Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND CELEBRATE THE 2026 UNITED STATES WOMEN'S HOCKEY TEAM AND TO RECOGNIZE ALL FEMALE ATHLETES PARTICIPATING IN THE 2026 WINTER OLYMPIC GAMES FOR THEIR DEDICATION, PERSEVERANCE, AND REPRESENTATION OF EXCELLENCE IN ATHLETICS AND LEADERSHIP.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 948 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SAFEGUARDING ENDOWMENT GIFTS ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 TO CHAPTER 6, TITLE 34 SO AS TO PROHIBIT CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS FROM VIOLATING WRITTEN DONOR RESTRICTIONS EXCEPT WHEN REQUIRED OR AUTHORIZED BY FEDERAL OR STATE LAW; TO REQUIRE NOTIFICATION TO DONORS WHEN A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION IS UNABLE TO FULFILL ONE OR MORE TERMS IN AN ENDOWMENT AGREEMENT; TO ESTABLISH JUDICIAL PROCESSES AND REMEDIES WHEN CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS VIOLATE DONOR IMPOSED RESTRICTIONS IN ENDOWMENT AGREEMENTS; TO PERMIT CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS TO SEEK A JUDICIAL DECLARATION OF RIGHTS AND DUTIES AND RELATED PROVISIONS; AND TO DESIGNATE SECTIONS 34-6-10 THROUGH 34-6-100 AS ARTICLE 1, "GENERAL PROVISIONS."
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
S. 949 (Word version) -- Senators Leber and Kennedy: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE GRATITUDE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE FOR THE GOLD-MEDAL VICTORIES OF THE UNITED STATES WOMEN'S AND MEN'S HOCKEY TEAMS AT THE 2026 OLYMPIC GAMES IN MILAN, ITALY, AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON THEIR SUCCESS IN REPRESENTING THE NATION WITH PRIDE ON THE WORLD STAGE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 950 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Alexander and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3150, RELATING TO DETERMINING WHEN AS ASSESSABLE TRANSFER OF INTEREST OCCURS, SO AS TO EXCLUDE TRANSFERS MADE TO QUALIFIED FAMILY MEMBERS TO CLEAR THE TITLE OF HEIRS' PROPERTY.
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Senator DAVIS spoke on the Bill.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 951 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-75-485, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA HURRICANE DAMAGE MITIGATION PROGRAM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PROGRAM MUST BE KNOWN AS THE "SC SAFE HOME PROGRAM," TO ESTABLISH THE PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM, TO REVISE GRANT ELIGIBILITY AND AWARD AMOUNTS, TO AUTHORIZE ANNUAL BULLETIN-BASED ALLOCATIONS, TO ESTABLISH NEEDS-BASED PRIORITIZATION OF GRANTS, TO CLARIFY USE AND DISTRIBUTION OF TAX REVENUES, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AND TECHNICAL CHANGES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
S. 952 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO ENCOURAGE ALL SOUTH CAROLINIANS TO JOIN WITH THE SENATE IN CELEBRATING AND RECOGNIZING HOW CRITICAL THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CARE WORKERS ARE TO THE HEALTH AND OVERALL WELL-BEING OF OUR STATE AND TO DECLARE THE MONTH OF APRIL AS "CARE WORKERS RECOGNITION MONTH" THROUGHOUT THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
S. 953 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR THE CENTER FOR EDUCATOR RECRUITMENT, RETENTION, AND ADVANCEMENT (CERRA) UPON ITS FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY, TO CONGRATULATE THE CENTER FOR ITS DECADES OF DEDICATION TO ADVANCING EDUCATION THROUGH RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION EFFORTS, AND TO RECOGNIZE MARCH 24, 2026, AS "CERRA RECOGNITION AND CELEBRATION DAY."
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The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Education.
S. 954 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE UNITED STATES ARMY AIR FORCE STAFF SERGEANT PHILLIP BRUCE COOK FOR HIS BRAVERY AND SERVICE DURING WORLD WAR II AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM ON HIS NOMINATION BY FRENCH PRESIDENT EMMANUEL MACRON AS A CHEVALIER IN THE ORDRE NATIONAL DE LA LEGION D'HONNEUR, THE HIGHEST AND MOST PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL HONOR OF MERIT TO REWARD THOSE WHO HAVE DONE GREAT DEEDS FOR FRANCE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
H. 3477 (Word version) -- Reps. Caskey, Bannister, G. M. Smith, B. Newton, Hewitt, Long, Wooten, C. Mitchell, Pope, W. Newton, Sessions, Neese, Weeks, Bowers, Moss, Hartz, Lawson, Rankin, Guest, Brittain, Lowe, Sanders, M. M. Smith, T. Moore, Ballentine, Martin, Ligon, Oremus, Pedalino, Calhoon, Davis, Taylor, Holman, Erickson, Brewer, Gatch, Yow, Haddon, Hixon, Hiott, Wickensimer, Jordan, Hardee and Chapman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 41-35-50, RELATING TO THE MAXIMUM UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS ALLOWED IN A BENEFIT YEAR, SO AS TO BASE THE DURATION OF UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS ALLOWED ON SEASONALLY ADJUSTED STATEWIDE UNEMPLOYMENT RATES, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR CALCULATING THE RATES, AND TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND WORKFORCE SHALL PROMULGATE CERTAIN RELATED REGULATIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 41-35-120, RELATING TO DISQUALIFICATION FOR BENEFITS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
H. 4757 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Erickson, Davis, M. M. Smith, Bailey, Bradley, Brewer, Caskey, Crawford, Duncan, Forrest, Gagnon, Gatch, Gilliam, Guest, Haddon, Hardee, Hartnett, Hartz, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Martin, McCravy, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, T. Moore, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pedalino, Robbins, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, Taylor, Teeple, Vaughan, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Willis, Wooten, Yow, Chumley, Edgerton, Magnuson, Terribile, Kilmartin, White, Sanders, D. Mitchell, Cromer, Gilreath, Guffey, Lastinger, Chapman and Bowers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PARENTAL RIGHTS ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 28, TITLE 59, TO AFFIRM AND ENUMERATE THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS OF PARENTS TO DIRECT THE UPBRINGING, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, AND GENERAL WELFARE OF THEIR CHILDREN, TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ADOPT MINIMUM STANDARDS TO IMPLEMENT PARENTAL RIGHTS AND A RELATED MODEL PARENTAL RIGHTS POLICY, TO PROVIDE LOCAL EDUCATION AGENCIES SHALL ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT RELATED POLICIES, TO ESTABLISH ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES FOR THE INVESTIGATION AND RESOLUTION OF ALLEGED VIOLATIONS, TO PROVIDE FOR A LIMITED PRIVATE CAUSE OF ACTION UPON EXHAUSTION OF ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-5-340, RELATING TO MINOR CONSENT FOR HEALTH SERVICES, SO AS TO CLARIFY, STRENGTHEN, AND EXPAND REQUIREMENTS FOR PARENTAL CONSENT FOR NONEMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT OF MINORS, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES AND REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS ALLEGED BY PARENTS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY REPEALING SECTION 63-5-350 RELATING TO FURNISHING HEALTH SERVICES TO MINORS WITHOUT PARENTAL CONSENT; BY DESIGNATING THE EXISTING PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 28, TITLE 59 AS "GENERAL PROVISIONS"; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 63-5-370 RELATING TO CERTAIN CONSENT NOT BEING SUBJECT TO DISAFFIRMANCE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 5096 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Yow, Burns, Brewer, Rankin, Chumley, Morgan, Pedalino, J. E. Johnson, Guffey, Chapman, Lastinger, Robbins, Holman, Calhoon, Davis, Cox, Brittain, Forrest, Gagnon, Hixon, Ligon, Atkinson, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ARTICLE 5 OF CHAPTER 17, TITLE 47, RELATING TO MISREPRESENTING PRODUCTS THAT ARE CELL-CULTURED MEAT, SO AS TO PROVIDE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO MANUFACTURE, SELL, OR DISTRIBUTE ARTIFICIAL OR CELL-CULTIVATED FOOD PRODUCTS IN THIS STATE, TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE, TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS ARTICLE, AND TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MAY PROMULGATE REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ARTICLE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.
H. 5097 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Yow, Ligon, Holman, Rankin, Pedalino, Forrest, Hixon, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-145 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN ROADSIDE MARKETS OPERATED BY FARMERS ARE NOT CONSIDERED COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS FOR LOCAL ZONING PURPOSES AND ARE EXEMPT FROM CERTAIN LOCAL AND STATE REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
On motion of Senator GROOMS, with unanimous consent, Senators HUTTO, CLIMER, MATTHEWS, SABB, RICE and GROOMS were granted leave to attend a subcommittee meeting and were granted leave to vote from the balcony.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senators BRIGHT, HEMBREE, and MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SEDU-70.DB0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-19-45(A) and inserting:
The department shall:
(1) adopt a required training program for new local school board members delivered by the department or the department's designee(s).
(2) adopt a required training program for local school board members that have been re-elected or reappointed delivered by the department or the department's designee(s).
(3) review the training program and adopt any necessary revisions every three years. The department may designate a designee(s) for this review process. Every three years, the department or the department's designee(s) shall review the training program and adopt any necessary revisions.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over to the end of the Statewide Second Reading Calendar.
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 Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
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.
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.
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. 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.
On motion of Senator SUTTON, 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 HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over to the end of the Statewide Second Reading Calendar.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (SF-420.AA0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 6-5-10(9) and inserting:
(9) A qualified retiree post-employment benefits trust may invest in notes, bonds, debentures, or other debt instruments issued by a United States corporation, provided that the instruments are rated in general rating categoriesinvestment grade by no fewer than two nationally recognized credit rating organizations. For purposes of this subsection, a qualified retiree post-employment benefits trust means a trust to provide for the employer costs of retiree post-employment benefits for retired employees of political subdivisions of the State.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT 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 Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, the Bill was carried over.
S. 723 (Word version) -- Senators Blackmon, Climer, Kennedy, Reichenbach, Rice, Zell and Garrett: 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-723.MB0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 3, by striking Section 16-15-410(C)(2) and inserting:
(2) A person who violates the provisions of this section and ishas previously been convicted of an offense that required the person to register as a sex offender in accordance with Section 23-3-430, upon conviction, must servebe imprisoned for a minimum sentence of five years.
(3) For any violation of the provisions of this section, no part of the minimum sentence may be suspended nor is the individual convicted eligible for parole until he has served the minimum sentence.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators MASSEY and BLACKMON proposed the following amendment (SJ-723.MB0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 16-15-395(D) and inserting:
(D)(1) A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned for not less than three five years nor more than twenty years. No part of the minimum sentence of imprisonment may be suspended nor is the individual convicted eligible for parole until he has served the minimum term of imprisonment. Sentences imposed pursuant to this section must run consecutively with and commence at the expiration of another sentence being served by the person sentenced.
(2) A person who violates the provisions of this section and has previously been convicted of an offense that required the person to register as a sex offender in accordance with Section 23-3-430, upon conviction, must be sentenced for an additional five years.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 16-15-405(D) and inserting:
(D)(1) A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not less than twothree years nor more than ten years. No part of the minimum sentence may be suspended nor is the individual convicted eligible for parole until he has served the minimum sentence.
(2) A person who violates the provisions of this section and has previously been convicted of an offense that required the person to register as a sex offender in accordance with Section 23-3-430, upon conviction, must be imprisoned for a minimum sentence of five years.
(3) For any violation of the provisions of this section, no part of the minimum sentence may be suspended nor is the individual convicted eligible for parole until he has served the minimum sentence.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MASSEY 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 Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 853 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Hutto, Sutton, Graham, Turner, Stubbs, Matthews, Zell, Campsen and Kimbrell: 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator DAVIS 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 Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, the Bill was carried over.
H. 3858 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, Pedalino, Lowe, C. 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.
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the Bill was carried over.
S. 343 (Word version) -- Senators Corbin, Cash, Rice, Garrett, Kimbrell, Leber, Zell and Kennedy: 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young
Bright Fernandez
The Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered sent to the House.
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.
THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
At 1:47 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.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator DAVIS explained the Bill.
Senator CASH spoke on the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Bright Cash Corbin Fernandez Kennedy Leber
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Chaplin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
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.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SR-4216.KM0001S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 12-6-1140 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
(16) the first seventy-five thousand dollars for taxpayers under the age of thirty during any portion of the taxable year.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SR-4216.KM0002S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 12-6-3632 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 12-6-3632. (A) There is allowed as a nonrefundable credit against the tax imposed pursuant to Section 12-6-510 on a full-year resident individual taxpayer an amount equal to one hundred twenty-five percent of the federal earned income tax credit (EITC) allowed the taxpayer pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 32.For tax years beginning after 2025, an individual taxpayer who is a full-year resident of this State and who is eligible for the federal earned income tax credit is allowed a credit against the tax imposed pursuant to Section 12-6-510 as provided in this section.
(B) An eligible taxpayer may claim either:
(1) a nonrefundable credit equal to one hundred twenty-five percent of the federal earned income tax credit allowed the taxpayer; or
(2) a refundable credit equal to ten percent of the federal earned income tax credit allowed the taxpayer.
(C) The taxpayer shall elect the credit that offers the greatest value for his household for the applicable year.
(D) To ensure that the provisions contained in this section do not discourage family formation, the plateau of the credit schedule for taxpayers as "married filing jointly" shall be extended beyond the threshold for single filers to mitigate any potential marriage penalty.
(E) In order to be eligible to claim the tax credit provided in this section, the taxpayer:
(1) must be a resident of this State for the entire taxable year;
(2) may not file as "married filing separately;"
(3) must be a citizen of the United States, and have a valid Social Security number;
(4) must be between twenty-four and sixty-four years of age; and
(5) must not have investment income exceeding ten thousand dollars.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senators BRIGHT and CLIMER proposed the following amendment (SR-4216.CEM0003S), which was carried over and subsequently withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking the table in Section 12-6-510(C) of the S.C. Code and inserting:
At least But less than Compute tax as follows
$0 $30,000 1.99% times the amount
$30,000 or more 5.39 5.04% times the amount minus $9151,020
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the amendment was carried over.
Senators BRIGHT, TURNER, CLIMER, MARTIN, PEELER and ALEXANDER proposed the following amendment (SR-4216.CEM0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking the table in Section 12-6-510(C) of the S.C. Code and inserting:
At least But less than Compute tax as follows
$0 $30,000 1.99% times the amount
$30,000 or more 5.39 5.21% times the amount minus $9661,020
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BRIGHT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4216.MW0003S), which was tabled:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 7, by striking Section 12-6-3632 and inserting:
Section 12-6-3632. (A)There is allowed as a nonrefundable credit against the tax imposed pursuant to Section 12-6-510 on a full-year resident individual taxpayer an amount equal to one hundred twenty-five percent of the federal earned income tax credit (EITC) allowed the taxpayer pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 32, but not to exceed two hundred dollars.
(B) In addition to the credit allowed pursuant to subsection (A), there is allowed as a refundable credit against the tax imposed pursuant to Section 12-6-510 on a full-year resident individual taxpayer an amount equal to ten percent of the federal earned income tax credit (EITC) allowed the taxpayer pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Section 32, but not to exceed four hundred dollars. To claim the credit allowed by this subsection, the taxpayer must have at least one qualifying dependent and an adjusted gross income of no more than eighty thousand dollars. Each year, for credits claimed pursuant to this subsection, the department shall issue a report to the General Assembly detailing the total number of credits claimed, the average credit amount, and a geographic distribution of where such taxpayers reside.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
Senator TURNER moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The amendment was laid on the table.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 4 was withdrawn.
The question then was 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 Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Devine Fernandez Hutto Ott Sabb
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:
Initial Appointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Chesterfield County:
Jeremy Keith Lear, 205 East Godfrey Street, Pageland, SC 29728 VICE John Kennedy Melton
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. George Malone of Colleton County, S.C. George was the first African-American Sheriff of Colleton County. George served his community with great honor, respect and dedication and will be dearly missed.
At 2:33 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 12:15 P.M.
This web page was last updated on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 3:48 P.M.