NO. 26
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:
Genesis 22:1
In the Book Genesis we read that: "Some time later God tested Abraham."
Let us pray. Holy Lord, I suspect all of us can recall being "tested" at some time or another. Being "tested" is not an unusual reality. Yet very few of us, I daresay, were ever tested as was Your servant, Abraham, when You told him to take his own son, Isaac, and to sacrifice the youngster. And yet testing almost routinely does befall these servants of Yours here in the Senate of South Carolina, Lord. Over and over they are "tested" by many of the issues here during this age we find ourselves living through. That is why, O Lord, we ask You today to grant each Senator and every staff member the special gifts they all need to effectively serve the people of South Carolina. In Your wondrous name we pray, dear Lord. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Garrett Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Turner Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
Senators ALEXANDER and MARTIN introduced Dr. Jennifer Hanke of Oconee, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator GAMBRELL, at 11:18 A.M., Senator VERDIN was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator GAMBRELL, at 11:18 A.M., Senator GOLDFINCH was granted a leave of absence for today.
At 11:18 A.M., Senator GAMBRELL requested a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator LEBER, at 11:24 A.M., Senator FERNANDEZ was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, at 11:43 A.M., Senators TEDDER and OTT were granted a leave of absence for today.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 76 (Word version) Sen. Walker
S. 99 (Word version) Sen. Walker
S. 346 (Word version) Sen. Walker
S. 901 (Word version) Sen. Cash
S. 936 (Word version) Sen. Cash
The following were introduced:
S. 960 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett, Hembree, Rankin, Turner, Massey and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1300, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR "ELECTION COMMUNICATION" AND "INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURE COMMITTEE"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1375 SO AS TO ESTABLISH DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTION COMMUNICATIONS BY INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURE COMMITTEES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 961 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-5-1705, RELATING TO CATCH LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SALTWATER GAME FISH, SO AS TO REVISE THE CATCH LIMIT FOR RED DRUM; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-5-1710, RELATING TO SIZE LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SALTWATER GAME FISH, SO AS TO REVISE THE SIZE LIMIT FOR RED DRUM; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 50-5-1700, RELATING TO EQUIPMENT FOR THE CATCHING OF SALTWATER GAME FISH, SO AS TO REQUIRE A NON-OFFSET, NON-STAINLESS STEEL CIRCLE HOOK WHEN USING A HAND-HELD HOOK AND LINE AND A HOOK SIZE OF 4/0 OR LARGER.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
S. 962 (Word version) -- : A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, RELATING TO HONEY BEES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5370, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.
S. 963 (Word version) -- Senator Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "CONSUMER PROTECTIONS IN INTERACTIONS WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 31 TO TITLE 37 SO AS TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, PROHIBIT ALGORITHMIC DISCRIMINATION ARISING FROM THE USE OF HIGH-RISK ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS.
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Senator LEBER spoke on the Bill.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
S. 964 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Adams, Alexander, Allen, Bennett, Blackmon, Bright, Campsen, Cash, Chaplin, Climer, Corbin, Cromer, Davis, Devine, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Garrett, Goldfinch, Graham, Grooms, Hembree, Jackson, Johnson, Kennedy, Kimbrell, Leber, Martin, Massey, Matthews, Ott, Peeler, Rankin, Reichenbach, Rice, Sabb, Stubbs, Sutton, Tedder, Turner, Verdin, Walker, Williams, Young and Zell: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR CANCER PATIENTS, SURVIVORS AND THEIR FAMILIES, REMEMBER THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN LOST TO CANCER, AND RECOGNIZE MARCH 4, 2026 AS "SUITS AND SNEAKERS DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
S. 965 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE STATE LODGE WHICH WAS FORMALLY ESTABLISHED ON MAY 6, 1976.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 966 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE SOUTH CAROLINA INSTITUTE OF MEDICINE AND PUBLIC HEALTH ON THE OCCASION OF ITS FIFTEENTH ANNIVERSARY, COMMEND THE ORGANIZATION FOR ITS COMMITMENT AND SERVICE TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND EXTEND BEST WISHES FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 967 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Peeler, Turner, Martin, Massey, Kennedy, Elliott and Chaplin: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MARCH 3, 2026 AS "CLEMSON DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 968 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR RITA CRUMP-SADDLER AND 50 FRIENDS FOR THEIR WORK TO COMBAT CANCER.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:
S. 715 (Word version) -- Senators Sutton, Rice, Elliott and Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-50, RELATING TO ORGANIZATIONS EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION PROVISIONS, ALTERNATE FILINGS, AND FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO INCREASE THRESHOLDS FOR CHARITIES REQUESTING EXEMPTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-70, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT CONTRACTS WITH PROFESSIONAL SOLICITORS MUST BE IN WRITING, FILING REQUIREMENTS, JOINT FINANCIAL REPORTS FOR EACH CAMPAIGN, AND PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE, SO AS TO LIMIT FILING REQUIREMENTS TO COMMERCIAL CO-VENTURERS UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-90, RELATING TO DISCLOSURES TO SOLICITED PARTIES, SO AS TO REQUIRE ANY ENTITY THAT SOLICITS FOR CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS TO DISCLOSE THE LEGAL NAME AND PURPOSE OF THE CHARITY FOR WHICH THEY ARE SOLICITING; BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-110, RELATING TO THE REGISTRATION OF PROFESSIONAL SOLICITORS, FUNDRAISING COUNSEL, OR COMMERCIAL CO-VENTURERS, SO AS TO LIMIT REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL CO-VENTURERS SOLICITING MORE THAN TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS IN A SINGLE SOLICITATION CAMPAIGN; BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-110, RELATING TO REGISTRATION OF PROFESSIONAL SOLICITORS, FUNDRAISING COUNSEL, OR COMMERCIAL CO-VENTURERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A COMMERCIAL CO-VENTURER INTENDING TO BE EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE COLLECTS, EARNS, OR RECEIVES CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS DURING A SOLICITATION CAMPAIGN, THEN THE COMMERCIAL CO-VENTURER SHALL REPORT TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-120, RELATING TO PROHIBITED MISREPRESENTATIONS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT COMMERCIAL CO-VENTURERS FROM USING REGISTRATION WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE AS AN ENDORSEMENT BY THE STATE.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator CLIMER from the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3924 (Word version) -- Reps. Wooten, W. Newton, Erickson, Neese, Hager, Bannister, Herbkersman, M.M. Smith, Pedalino, Mitchell, Bustos, Lawson, Guffey, Hiott, Taylor, Ballentine, Vaughan, White, Long, Ligon, Guest, Gilliam, Hartnett, Bailey, Landing, B.J. Cox, Hayes, Atkinson, Willis, Lowe, T. Moore, Davis, Hixon, Martin, Pope, Henderson-Myers and Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 56 TO TITLE 46 SO AS TO REGULATE THE SALE OF HEMP-DERIVED CONSUMABLES, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:
H. 4305 (Word version) -- Rep. Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 TO CHAPTER 71, TITLE 38 ENTITLED "WELLNESS REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAMS" SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, PROHIBIT CERTAIN ACTS BY WELLNESS REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAMS, REQUIRE REGISTRATION INCLUDING AN APPLICATION AND FEES WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE, EXEMPT BROKERS FROM REGISTERING, AND TO PROVIDE FINES FOR FAILING TO REGISTER WHEN REQUIRED.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:
Initial Appointment, Board of Massage Therapy, with the term to commence June 30, 2023, and to expire June 30, 2027
Massage/Bodywork Therapist:
Jessica Jones, 525 Hampton Street, Camden, SC 29020 VICE Sherri Rees
Received as information.
Reappointment, Board of Massage Therapy, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
Massage/Bodywork Therapist:
Bailey B. R. Maddox, LMT, CLT, 1898 Calhoun Street, Suite 8, Columbia, SC 29201-2650
Received as information.
Reappointment, Board of Massage Therapy, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
Massage/Bodywork Therapist:
Janet W. Shaw, 802 Pinedale Rd., West Columbia, SC 29170
Received as information.
Senator CLIMER from the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, with the term to commence April 6, 2024, and to expire April 6, 2030
5th Congressional District:
Christine E. White, 1520 Highcrest Way, Rock Hill, SC 29730-6668
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:
H. 4902 (Word version) -- Reps. Hiott, G.M. Smith, Bannister, Rutherford, Brittain, Guest, Stavrinakis, Erickson, Caskey, Pope, Collins, B. Newton, Davis, Herbkersman, Hixon, Willis, Reese and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-158-50, RELATING TO AN EXEMPTION OF AN INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETE'S NAME, IMAGE, AND LIKENESS COMPENSATION CONTRACT DOCUMENTATION MAINTAINED BY PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING FROM PUBLIC DISCLOSURE UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO REMOVE AN EXCEPTION TO THE EXEMPTION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT RECORDS OF AGGREGATE REVENUE FUNDS EXPENDED FOR INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS REVENUE-SHARING PROGRAMS BY A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING EACH FISCAL YEAR ARE SUBJECT TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT SUBJECT TO EXCEPTIONS FROM SUCH DISCLOSURE FOR INDIVIDUAL ATHLETE PAYMENTS, SPORT-SPECIFIC ALLOCATIONS, AND NEGOTIATION RECORDS.
Senator MASSEY desired to be recorded as voting against the third reading of the Bill.
The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
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.
S. 325 (Word version) -- Senators Massey, Alexander, Walker and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-10, RELATING TO DEPARTMENTS OF STATE GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO ADD THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO THE DEPARTMENTS WITHIN THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH OF STATE GOVERNMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 1-30-145 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE TRANSITION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH OF STATE GOVERNMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 37-6-103, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "ADMINISTRATOR," SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR IS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR UPON THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 37-6-104(6), 37-6-117(I), 37-6-501 THROUGH 510, 37-6-602, AND 37-6-604(B), ALL RELATING TO FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION ON CONSUMER AFFAIRS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISSOLUTION OF THE COMMISSION ON CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO BE REPLACED WITH AN ADMINISTRATOR AS THE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT.
The following Bills were read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the titles be changed to that of Acts and enrolled for Ratification:
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.
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.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
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.
S. 76 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms, Young, Goldfinch, Sabb, Alexander, Kennedy, Cromer, Zell, Williams, Garrett and Walker: 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.
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. 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.
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.
Senator HUTTO objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
On motion of Senator CORBIN, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (SR-4342.CEM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Chapter 69, Title 40 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 40-69-245. (A) The South Carolina State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners may issue a restricted faculty license to practice veterinary medicine to an applicant who is a member of the faculty at a school of veterinary medicine in this State accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association if the applicant has satisfied one of the following:
(1) is licensed as a veterinarian in another state or territory of the United States; or
(2) is a graduate of a school or college of veterinary medicine accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association or holds a certificate issued by the Education Commission of Foreign Veterinary Graduates or credentials issued by a credentialing entity approved by the board or a related doctoral degree has been granted a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or equivalent degree from a veterinary college or university.
(B) The board may waive requirement found in subsection (A) if the applicant has a full-time academic faculty appointment at the rank of assistant professor or greater at a veterinarian college or university in this State accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
(C) A faculty license entitles the holder to practice veterinary medicine while engaged in the performance of his or her official duties as a faculty member only and is confined to clinical, hospital or field services units, of the school of veterinary medicine where employed.
(D) The board may not license an applicant who has been refused a license or has a revoked license, has relinquished a license, or is currently under suspension or probation in this State or another state, country, or territory. Nothing prevents the board from denying an applicant a restricted faculty license for grounds set forth in South Carolina Code section 40-1-110.
(E) The license issued pursuant to this section shall be cancelled by the board upon receipt of information that the holder of the license has left or has otherwise been discontinued from faculty employment at a college or school of veterinary medicine in South Carolina.
(F) An applicant must file an application, including any other required documentation and pay a license fee. The initial licensee fee is equivalent to the initial application fee required of veterinary applicants. The license fee is subject to change in regulation in accordance with the provisions of Section 40-1-50, as added to the S.C. Code by this act. The department may establish and adjust application fees, license renewal fees, late fees, reinstatement fees, and other related fees in regulation. The department shall only establish fees at levels which are adequate to ensure the continued operation of the regulatory program established in this act and may not set or maintain fees that substantially exceed this need.
(G) The license issued pursuant to this section is subject to requirements as set forth in South Carolina section 40-69-250 and 40-69-255.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DAVIS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Garrett Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner 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. 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (SR-819.KM0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Chapter 31, Title 44 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 44-31-45. (A) For the purposes of this section:
(1) "Authorized healthcare provider" means a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or registered nurse acting under written standing orders or a protocol approved by a physician.
(2) "Blood assay for mycobacterium tuberculosis" means an interferon-gamma release assay or other blood tests for tuberculosis infection approved by the FDA.
(B)(1) Prior to an applicant for employment having resident contact at a nursing home or community residential care facility, as defined in Section 44-7-130, a facility shall:
(a) conduct an annual tuberculosis risk assessment using a high, medium, or low risk standard in accordance with CDC guidelines to determine the facility's risk classification and appropriate screening measures;
(b) request and receive from an authorized healthcare provider a signed, a written declaration that the applicant:
(i) has received a negative tuberculosis screening test, either a single skin test or a single blood assay for mycobacterium tuberculosis within three months prior to resident contact; or
(ii) documentation of a negative tuberculosis screening test with the previous twelve months; and
(iii) exhibits no signs or symptoms of active tuberculosis disease.
(2) Upon receipt of documentation from an authorized healthcare provider that the applicant satisfied the provisions contained in subsection (B)(1)(b), the applicant may begin work at the nursing home or residential care facility subject to the following conditions:
(a) If the documented negative tuberculosis test was a tuberculin skin test, the nursing home or community residential care facility must place and read the second step skin test within the first fourteen days of resident contact.
(b) No further testing is required if the applicant received a negative blood assay for mycobacterium tuberculosis within three months prior to resident contact, no further testing is required. If the applicant received a negative blood assay for mycobacterium more than three months prior to resident contact, a single tuberculin skin test or single blood assay for mycobacterium tuberculosis can be administered within the first fourteen days of resident contact to serve as the baseline.
(C) Applicants with a prior positive or newly positive tuberculosis test result or who exhibits symptoms of tuberculosis, including, but not limited to cough, weight loss, night sweats, or fever, shall immediately undergo a chest radiograph to exclude tuberculosis disease. If a physician is unable to exclude tuberculosis disease after the chest radiograph, then the applicant must be excluded from work until he is cleared by the department's tuberculosis control program. The applicant must also be evaluated for treatment of tuberculosis disease or latent tuberculosis infection pursuant to the department's and CDC's guidelines.
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GARRETT 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 Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Garrett Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner 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.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the Senate agreed to go into Executive Session prior to adjournment.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
At 1:36 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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