NO. 36
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:
Exodus 3:11
Once again in Exodus we hear Moses doubting himself before God, saying to the Lord: " 'Who am I, that I should go to Pharoah and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?' "
Good friends, let us pray: O blessed Lord, we fully recognize how those moments arise when someone in a leadership role might find herself or himself wondering, "How on earth did I ever think this would be an easy task?" The fact is, of course: being a leader of others is so often just the opposite of what we might call "easy." And these Senators come to know that reality early on as they strive to work on behalf of the people of our State. Responsibility is more often than not quite a burden; the expectations of our citizens are frequently sky-high. Nonetheless, dear God, instead of the occasional feeling of "why me, Lord," may these leaders unfailingly trust in You and thereby find the strength they need to bring about great and solid blessings for our State and her people, We humbly pray all this in Your loving name, 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 Corbin Davis Devine Elliott Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Initial Appointment, Real Estate Appraisers Board, with the term to commence May 31, 2025, and to expire May 31, 2028
Licensed Real Estate Broker:
Maurice Myron Walker, 1432 Flintwood Drive, Rock Hill, SC 29732 VICE Damian Burris
Referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
Reappointment, South Carolina Arts Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2028
At-Large:
Linda C. Stern, 2134 Bermuda Hills Road , Columbia, SC 29223
Referred to the Committee on Education.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Medical Examiners, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
At Large, Public:
Mary J. Richardson, 8115 Burdell Drive, Columbia, SC 29209
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, Dillon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Dillon County:
Mackie D. Hayes, 318 Lee Circle, Dillion, SC 29536
Reappointment, Marion County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Marion County:
Kelik Donald Fling, 404 McTavish Moor Court, Marion, SC 29571
March 12, 2026
The Honorable Henry D. McMaster The Honorable Jeffrey S. Gossett
State House, First Floor Suite 401 Gressette Building
Columbia, SC 29201 Columbia, SC 29201
The Honorable Mark Hammond The Honorable Charles F. Reid
1205 Pendleton Street Blatt Building
Columbia SC 29201 Columbia, SC 29201
Re: Approval of Mr. Willliam B. Dukes, 2nd Congressional District, SCDOT Commission
Dear Governor McMaster, Secretary Hammond, Mr. Gossett, and Mr. Reid:
On March 11, 2026, the 2nd Congressional District Senate Legislative Delegation met to consider the following:
Reappointment, Department of Transportation Commission, with the term to commence February 15, 2026, and to expire February 15, 2030
2nd Congressional District:
William B. Dukes, 523 Carol Lane, Chapin, SC 29036
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Darrell Jackson
Reappointment, Department of Transportation Commission, with the term to commence February 15, 2026, and to expire February 15, 2030
2nd Congressional District:
William B. Dukes, 523 Carol Lane, Chapin, SC 29036
March 12, 2026
The Honorable Henry D. McMaster The Honorable Jeffrey S. Gossett
State House, First Floor Suite 401 Gressette Building
Columbia, SC 29201 Columbia, SC 29201
The Honorable Mark Hammond The Honorable Charles F. Reid
1205 Pendleton Street Blatt Building
Columbia SC 29201 Columbia, SC 29201
Re: Approval of Mr. L. Martin Sauls IV, 6th Congressional District, SCDOT Commission
Dear Governor McMaster, Secretary Hammond, Mr. Gossett, and Mr. Reid:
On March 12, 2026, the 6th Congressional District Senate Legislative Delegation met to consider the following:
Initial Appointment, Department of Transportation Commission, with the term to commence February 15, 2026, and to expire February 15, 2030
6th Congressional District:
L. Martin Sauls IV, 878 Broadview Dr., Ridgeland, SC 29936
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Darrell Jackson
Initial Appointment, Department of Transportation Commission, with the term to commence February 15, 2026, and to expire February 15, 2030
6th Congressional District:
L. Martin Sauls IV, 878 Broadview Dr., Ridgeland, SC 29936
VICE John Barnwell Fishbourne
The following was received:
Document No. 5407
Agency: Department of Public Health
Chapter: 60
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-70-10 et seq.
SUBJECT: Standards for Licensing In-Home Care Providers
Received by President of the Senate January 13, 2026
Referred to Medical Affairs Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 3, 2026
Withdrawn and Resubmitted March 17, 2026
Senator OTT introduced Dr. Carlos Soto of Columbia, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, at 12:10 P.M., Senator FERNANDEZ was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, at 12:30 P.M., Senator CROMER was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator JACKSON, at 12:49 P.M., Senators HUTTO, SABB and GRAHAM were granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, at 12:49 P.M., Senator MATTHEWS was granted a leave of absence for today.
Senator SUTTON rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator TURNER, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator SUTTON, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator GOLDFINCH rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator TURNER, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator GOLDFINCH, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 330 (Word version) Sen. Jackson
S. 385 (Word version) Sens. Jackson and Zell
S. 711 (Word version) Sens. Walker and Zell
S. 720 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 856 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 983 (Word version) Sen. Allen
S. 1009 (Word version) Sen. Blackmon
S. 1021 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and 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."
Senator HEMBREE asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Education.
The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Education.
Senator HEMBREE asked unanimous consent to make a motion to take the Resolution up for immediate consideration.
There was no objection.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Resolution. The question then was the adoption of the Resolution.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, the Resolution was adopted.
H. 4919 (Word version) -- Rep. Hosey: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAYS 278 AND 301 IN THE TOWN OF ALLENDALE IN ALLENDALE COUNTY "PETTY OFFICER 1ST CLASS JOHNNIE DOCTOR JR. MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND PLACE APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.
The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 4569 (Word version) -- Rep. Edgerton: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 29 AT SOUTH BLACKSTOCK ROAD IN THE CITY OF SPARTANBURG IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY "BOBBY E. WILDER MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND PLACE APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.
The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 5089 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton and Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-110, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN BEAUFORT COUNTY, SO AS TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED.
Senator CAMPSEN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.
The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary and placed on the Calendar for consideration for tomorrow.
H. 5350 (Word version) -- Rep. Robbins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THAT ABUSE AND NEGLECT OF CHILDREN IS A SIGNIFICANT PROBLEM AND TO DECLARE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2026, AS "CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
Senator YOUNG asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
Senator YOUNG asked unanimous consent to make a motion to take the Resolution up for immediate consideration.
There was no objection.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Resolution. The question then was the adoption of the Resolution.
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the Resolution was adopted and ordered returned to the House.
The following were introduced:
S. 1013 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CELEBRATE THE GRAND OPENING OF THE JONATHAN GREEN MARITIME CULTURAL CENTER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA BEAUFORT.
sr-0578km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1014 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE CHRIST CHURCH EPISCOPAL SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING THE SOUTH CAROLINA CLASS AAA BOYS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.
sr-0575km-vc26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1015 (Word version) -- Senator Tedder: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE BOEING COMPANY, BOEING SOUTH CAROLINA FOR ADVANCING TO THE TOP FOUR OF THE 2026 MANUFACTURING MADNESS: THE COOLEST THING MADE IN SOUTH CAROLINA CONTEST.
sr-0581km-vc26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1016 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE LAKE MURRAY COUNTRY TOURISM DISTRICT UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS FORTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY.
sr-0584km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1017 (Word version) -- Senator Zell: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE ST. PETER AME CHURCH UPON THE DEDICATION OF ITS HISTORICAL MARKER AND TO COMMEND THE CHURCH FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0379km-vc25.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1018 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-104-20, RELATING TO THE PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM, SO AS TO ADD THE CLASSIC LEARNING TEST AS AN APPROVED ASSESSMENT FOR RECEIVING SCHOLARSHIPS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-149-50, RELATING TO THE LIFE SCHOLARSHIP, SO AS TO AMEND THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A LIFE SCHOLARSHIP TO INCLUDE ACT AND CLT SCORES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-26-20, RELATING TO THE DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "TALENTED AND QUALIFIED RESIDENT" TO INCLUDE ACT AND CLT SCORES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
S. 1019 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-145, RELATING TO REQUIRED COVERAGE FOR MAMMOGRAMS, PAP SMEARS, AND PROSTATE CANCER EXAMINATIONS AND LIMITATIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, REQUIRE HEALTH INSURANCE POLICIES IN THIS STATE TO ELIMINATE COST-SHARING REQUIREMENTS FOR PROSTATE CANCER EXAMINATIONS, SCREENINGS, AND DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS CONCERNING THE APPLICATION OF CERTAIN FEDERAL LAW.
sr-0023qg26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
S. 1020 (Word version) -- Senator Kennedy: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT THE ELECTION OF SCHOOL TRUSTEES IN LEXINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS 1, 2, AND 4 BE ON A PARTISAN BASIS BEGINNING IN 2028.
sr-0111cem26.docx
Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.
S. 1021 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and 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."
sr-0585km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1022 (Word version) -- Senator Corbin: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE THE CITY OF GREER ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 150TH ANNIVERSARY AND TO WISH ITS CITIZENS CONTINUED PROSPERITY, GROWTH, AND SUCCESS IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY.
lc-0531cm-eb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1023 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF JOSEPH MARION CORBETT AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
sr-0586km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1024 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR JTEKT AUTOMOTIVE SOUTH CAROLINA FOR ADVANCING TO THE TOP FOUR OF THE 2026 MANUFACTURING MADNESS: THE COOLEST THING MADE IN SOUTH CAROLINA CONTEST.
sr-0583km-vc26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1025 (Word version) -- Senators Devine and Jackson: A SENATE Resolution TO HONOR THE C.A. JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM AND COACHES ON THEIR IMPRESSIVE WIN OF THE 2026 CLASS A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE AND TO SALUTE THEM ON A REMARKABLE SEASON.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 4756 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Bailey, Ballentine, Brewer, Brittain, Bustos, Caskey, Chapman, Crawford, Davis, Duncan, Forrest, Gagnon, Gatch, Gilliam, Guest, Hardee, Hartz, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, J.E. Johnson, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Martin, McCravy, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, T. Moore, W. Newton, Oremus, Pedalino, Rankin, Robbins, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G.M. Smith, M.M. Smith, Taylor, Vaughan, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Willis, Wooten, Yow, B. Newton, Chumley, Edgerton, Magnuson, Terribile, White, D. Mitchell, Cromer, Gilreath, Huff, Landing, Lastinger, Teeple, Guffey, McCabe, Gibson and Bowers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA STUDENT PHYSICAL PRIVACY ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 23, TITLE 59 SO AS TO PROVIDE VARIOUS MEASURES TO PROMOTE AND ENSURE PRIVACY AMONG SEXES USING CERTAIN RESTROOMS AND CHANGING FACILITIES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE INTERRUPTED DEBATE.
H. 3924 (Word version) -- Reps. Wooten, W. Newton, Erickson, Neese, Hager, Bannister, Herbkersman, M.M. Smith, Pedalino, C. 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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator MASSEY asked unanimous consent to carry over H. 3924 until the end of the Statewide Uncontested Calendar.
There was no objection.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
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. 3650 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, Wooten, Pope, Chapman, W. Newton, Bailey, Robbins, Crawford, Guest, Caskey, Forrest, B. Newton, Hixon and Taylor: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-1-60, RELATING TO OFFENSES DEFINED AS VIOLENT CRIMES, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE OFFENSE OF DISCHARGING FIREARMS AT OR INTO A DWELLING HOUSE, OTHER BUILDING, STRUCTURE, ENCLOSURE, VEHICLE, AIRCRAFT, WATERCRAFT, OR OTHER CONVEYANCE, DEVICE, OR EQUIPMENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-440, RELATING TO DISCHARGING FIREARMS INTO A DWELLING HOUSE, OTHER BUILDING, STRUCTURE, ENCLOSURE, VEHICLE, AIRCRAFT, WATERCRAFT, OR OTHER CONVEYANCE, DEVICE, OR EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO CREATE A TIERED PENALTY STRUCTURE.
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. 385 (Word version) -- Senators Devine, Walker, Jackson and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "WOMEN'S CHILDBIRTH ALTERNATIVES, RESOURCES, AND EDUCATION (CARE) ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 21, CHAPTER 13 TO TITLE 24 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PREGNANCY TESTING OF CERTAIN WOMEN AFTER ADMISSION TO CERTAIN INCARCERATION FACILITIES, THE SUPERVISED PREINCARCERATION PROBATION OF PREGNANT WOMEN UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, THE SELF SURRENDER OF WOMEN SERVING PREINCARCERATION TERMS OF PROBATION TWELVE WEEKS AFTER THE BIRTH OF THEIR CHILDREN, CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO SURRENDER, PROCEDURES FOR WOMEN TO FOLLOW IF THEY LOSE THEIR PREGNANCIES WHILE ON PREINCARCERATION PROBATION, AND CERTAIN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Corrections and Penology proposed the following amendment (LC-385.CM0004S):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. This act may be cited as the "South Carolina Women's Childbirth Alternatives, Resources, and Education (CARE or WCA) Act."
SECTION 2. Chapter 13, Title 24 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
"South Carolina Women's Childbirth Alternatives, Resources, and Education (CARE or WCA) Act"
Section 24-13-2210. (A) For purposes of this section:
(1) "Pregnant or postpartum defendant" means a person who is pregnant or within one year after the end of pregnancy, regardless of outcome.
(2) "Newborn" means a child under one year of age.
(3) "Stay of execution of sentence" means a court-ordered delay in incarceration after sentencing.
(4) "Deferred sentencing" means postponement of sentencing until not earlier than twelve (12) weeks and not later than twelve (12) months postpartum, unless earlier sentencing is warranted by extraordinary circumstances.
(B) Upon verified notice that a defendant, charged or convicted of a non-violent offense, as defined in Section 16-1-70, is pregnant or postpartum, there is a rebuttable presumption against immediate incarceration. If incarceration is ordered, the court must make written findings that the defendant poses a substantial and specific risk to public safety that outweighs the medical, psychological, and social risks associated with incarceration.
(C)(1) For nonviolent offenses, as defined in Section 16-1-70, prosecutors and courts shall consider pregnancy or postpartum status in determining eligibility for, and terms of, diversion or deferred adjudication, consistent with public safety and program criteria, unless the defendant declines. The South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services will manage and oversee pre-incarceration terms of pregnant defendants as directed by the Court of General Sessions.
(2) A pregnant defendant must have sentencing deferred not earlier than twelve (12) weeks and not later than twelve (12) months postpartum unless good cause is shown for earlier sentencing unless pregnant defendant declines.
(3) During deferment, the court may require supervision and participation in health, parenting, or behavioral programs.
(4) Upon successful completion of deferment, the court may reduce or suspend the custodial term or convert it to community supervision.
(D) If a custodial sentence is imposed, the court may stay execution through the end of pregnancy for not earlier than twelve (12) weeks and not later than twelve (12) months postpartum. The defendant's bond and conditions remain in effect.
(E) Medical information related to pregnancy or postpartum status is confidential and may be disclosed only to the court, defense counsel, and the solicitor as necessary.
(F) An individual in custody may request a pregnancy test at any time after admission to a local detention facility, Department of Juvenile Justice facility, or Department of Corrections facility. The test must be provided within seventy-two (72) hours, and results are confidential medical information used solely for care and treatment.
(G) Beginning on January 1, 2028, and annually thereafter, the Department of Corrections, Department of Juvenile Justice, and each local detention facility shall report to the Department of Health and Human Services:
(1) data collected under subsection (F);
(2) the total number of incarcerated women;
(3) the total number of pregnant women; and
(4) the total number of women who declined deferred sentencing.
(H) Reports submitted under subsection (G) must exclude personally identifying information and comply with all federal and state privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
(I) It is the intent of the General Assembly that a pregnant woman temporarily held in a local detention facility pending transfer to the custody of the Department of Corrections be transferred as expeditiously as possible. The Department of Corrections and local law enforcement agencies shall make reasonable efforts to facilitate such transfer without delay. This subsection does not apply to individuals sentenced directly to serve their sentences in a local detention facility.
SECTION 3. Chapter 11, Title 19 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 19-11-120. Information obtained solely through pregnancy testing, prenatal or postpartum care, or behavioral-health screening during pregnancy shall be inadmissible in criminal prosecutions except when independently and lawfully obtained.
SECTION 4. Section 24-21-410 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 24-21-410. (A) After conviction or plea for any offense, except a crime punishable by death or life imprisonment, the judge of a court of record with criminal jurisdiction at the time of sentence may suspend the imposition or the execution of a sentence and place the defendant on probation or may impose a fine and also place the defendant on probation. Probation is a form of clemency. Before a defendant may be placed on probation, he must agree in writing to be subject to a search or seizure, without a search warrant, based on reasonable suspicions, of the defendant's person, any vehicle the defendant owns or is driving, and any of the defendant's possessions by:
(1) any probation agent employed by the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services; or
(2) any other law enforcement officer.
A defendant may not be placed on probation by the court if he fails to comply with this provision and instead must be required to serve the suspended portion of the defendant's sentence. However, a defendant who was convicted of or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a Class C misdemeanor or an unclassified misdemeanor that carries a term of imprisonment of not more than one year may not include the requirement that the defendant agree to be subject to search or seizure, without a search warrant, with or without cause, of the defendant's person, any vehicle the defendant owns or is driving, or any of the defendant's possessions.
Immediately before each search or seizure pursuant to this section, the law enforcement officer seeking to conduct the search or seizure must verify with the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services or by any other means available to the officer that the individual upon whom the search or seizure will be conducted is currently on parole. A law enforcement officer conducting a search or seizure without a warrant pursuant to this section shall report to the law enforcement agency that employs him all of these searches or seizures, which shall include the name, address, age, gender, and race or ethnicity of the person that is the subject of the search or seizure. The law enforcement agency shall submit this information at the end of each month to the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services for review of abuse. A finding of abuse of the use of searches or seizures without a search warrant must be reported by the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services to the State Law Enforcement Division for investigation. If the law enforcement officer fails to report each search or seizure pursuant to this section, he is subject to discipline pursuant to the employing agency's policies and procedures.
(B) If the defendant is pregnant or in a post-partum period, the judge may impose a term of incarceration to begin not earlier than twelve week (12) weeks and not later than twelve (12) months post-partum. During the pregnancy and post-partum period, the judge may place the defendant on probation, subject to the standard conditions of supervision and other special conditions, as the judge may order. Upon the expiration of the post-partum period, the defendant must surrender to the jail of the county of conviction for the imposition of the incarceration sentence. During this period of probation, agents or the court may respond to violations by pregnant or post-partum defendants according to Sections 24-21-450 and 24-21-460.
SECTION 5. Section 24-21-430 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 24-21-430. The court may impose by order duly entered and may at any time modify the conditions of probation and may include among them any of the following or any other condition not prohibited in this section; however, the conditions imposed must include the requirement that the probationer must permit the search or seizure, without a search warrant, based on reasonable suspicions, of the probationer's person, any vehicle the probationer owns or is driving, and any of the probationer's possessions by:
(1) any probation agent employed by the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services; or
(2) any other law enforcement officer, but the conditions imposed upon a probationer who was convicted of or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a Class C misdemeanor or an unclassified misdemeanor that carries a term of imprisonment of not more than one year may not include the requirement that the probationer agree to be subject to search or seizure, without a search warrant, with or without cause, of the probationer's person, any vehicle the probationer owns or is driving, or any of the probationer's possessions.
By enacting this provision, the General Assembly intends to provide law enforcement with a means of reducing recidivism and does not authorize law enforcement officers to conduct searches for the sole purpose of harassment. Immediately before each search or seizure pursuant to this section, the law enforcement officer seeking to conduct the search or seizure must verify with the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services or by any other means available to the officer that the individual upon whom the search or seizure will be conducted is currently on probation. A law enforcement officer conducting a search or seizure without a warrant pursuant to this section shall report to the law enforcement agency that employs him all of these searches or seizures, which shall include the name, address, age, gender, and race or ethnicity of the person that is the subject of the search or seizure. The law enforcement agency shall submit this information at the end of each month to the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services for review of abuse. A finding of abuse of the use of searches or seizures without a search warrant must be reported by the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services to the State Law Enforcement Division for investigation. If the law enforcement officer fails to report each search or seizure pursuant to this section, he is subject to discipline pursuant to the employing agency's policies and procedures.
To effectively supervise probationers, the director shall develop policies and procedures for imposing conditions of supervision on probationers. These conditions may enhance but must not diminish court imposedcourt-imposed conditions. When a defendant is pregnant or postpartum, conditions of probation shall consider maternal and infant health, including access to medical care, treatment, and parenting education.
The probationer shall:
(1) refrain from the violations of any state or federal penal laws;
(2) avoid injurious or vicious habits;
(3) avoid persons or places of disreputable or harmful character;
(4) permit the probation agent to visit at his home or elsewhere;
(5) work faithfully at suitable employment as far as possible;
(6) pay a fine in one or several sums as directed by the court;
(7) perform public service work as directed by the court;
(8) submit to a urinalysis or a blood test or both upon request of the probation agent;
(9) submit to curfew restrictions;
(10) submit to house arrest which is confinement in a residence for a period of twenty-four hours a day, with only those exceptions as the court may expressly grant in its discretion;
(11) submit to intensive surveillance which may include surveillance by electronic means;
(12) support his dependents; and
(13) follow the probation agent's instructions and advice regarding recreational and social activities.
SECTION 6. Chapter 15, Title 17 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 17-15-45. At any bond hearing, when notice of pregnancy or postpartum status is provided, the court shall consider such status when determining conditions of release.
SECTION 7. Chapter 27, Title 17 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 17-27-170. (A) A solicitor may at any time recommend, by motion to the court, recall of sentence and move the court to re-sentence a pregnant or postpartum defendant in the interests of justice.
(B) Upon receipt of the motion, the court shall schedule a hearing, notify victims in accordance with the South Carolina Crime Victims' Bill of Rights (Article 15, Chapter 3, Title 16), and determine whether continued incarceration poses an unreasonable risk to public safety.
(C) Upon recall, the court shall:
(1) reduce the term of imprisonment;
(2) convert incarceration to probation or community supervision;
(3) stay the sentence through the postpartum period pursuant to Section 24-13-2210; or
(4) impose rehabilitative or maternal-health conditions.
(D) Resentencing under this section shall not increase the original sentence, and is not subject to the time restrictions contained in Rule 29(a), South Carolina Rules of Criminal Procedure.
SECTION 8. Nothing in this Act shall be construed to authorize criminalization or surveillance of pregnancy outcomes, miscarriage, or abortion, or to limit greater protections afforded under federal or state law.
SECTION 9. This Act shall take effect January 1, 2027, and the first annual report required under Section 24-13-2210(G) shall be submitted to the Department of Health and Human Services by January 1, 2028.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.
Senator DEVINE spoke on the Bill.
The question being the adoption of the amendment.
Senator GARRETT objected to further consideration of the Bill.
S. 504 (Word version) -- Senators Blackmon, Hembree, Zell, Chaplin, Nutt, Stubbs, Fernandez, Elliott, Walker, Ott and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-445, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES WITHIN PROXIMITY OF SCHOOLS, SO AS TO INCLUDE CHILD CARE FACILITIES AND DAY PROGRAMS AND PROVIDE RELATED DEFINITIONS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator ADAMS 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 Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 711 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Walker and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-60, RELATING TO SCHOOL GUARDS REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE AUTHORITY TO DIRECT AND CONTROL TRAFFIC ON PUBLIC ROADWAYS NEAR SCHOOLS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (SEDU-711.KG0001S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-63-60 and inserting:
Section 59-63-60. No person charged with the responsibility of assisting school children to cross streets near schools shall engage in such activity unless he is attired with some type of garment or equipment that can be clearly seen by the driver of an approaching motor vehicle. Such individuals shall have the authority to direct and control traffic on public roadways near schools for the purpose of reducing traffic congestion related to student drop-off or pick-up. The school district official of each school district who is responsible for supervising such personnel shall be responsible for seeing that such persons within his district are furnished with the articles required by this section and that such persons receive appropriate training pertaining to traffic safety. The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy shall provide training to certified law enforcement officers to enable such officers to instruct designated individuals within school districts in the safe direction and control of traffic.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator JOHNSON, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senator JOHNSON proposed the following amendment (SEDU-711.KG0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-63-60 and inserting:
Section 59-63-60. (A) No person charged with the responsibility of assisting school children to cross streets near schools shall engage in such activity unless he is attired with some type of garment or equipment that can be clearly seen by the driver of an approaching motor vehicle.
(B) Such individuals shall have the authorityA person charged with the responsibility to direct and control traffic on public roadways near schools for the purpose of reducing traffic congestion related to student drop-off or pick-up shall be attired with some type of garment or equipment that can be clearly seen by the driver of an approaching motor vehicle and shall receive appropriate training pertaining to traffic safety.
© The school district official of each school district who is responsible for supervising such personnel shall be responsible for seeing that such persons within his district are furnished with the articles required by this section. And that such persons receive appropriate training pertaining to traffic safety. The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy shall provide training to certified law enforcement officers to enable such officers to instruct designated individuals within school districts in the safe direction and control of traffic.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the Bill was carried over.
S. 808 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin, Alexander and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-7-10, RELATING TO ILLEGAL ACTS DURING STATE OF EMERGENCY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THAT HARASSING OR THREATENING A WORKER RESTORING CRITICAL SERVICES IS A MISDEMEANOR, AND THAT ASSAULTING OR ENDANGERING A WORKER RESTORING OR DESTROYING OR TAMPERING WITH AN ELECTRIC UTILITY SYSTEM IS A FELONY, AND TO DEFINE CRITICAL SERVICES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-808.BJ0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 16-7-10(C)(4), (5), and (6) and inserting:
(4) telephone or cell service; or
(5) satellite or internet service.; or
(6) other services necessary for home and commercial properties.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator RANKIN 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 Campsen Davis Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Leber Ott Peeler Rankin Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Kennedy Martin Massey Reichenbach Rice
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 823 (Word version) -- Senators Reichenbach, Hutto, Devine and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTIONS 63-7-2630 AND 63-9-765 SO AS TO REQUIRE FAMILY COURTS TO CONSIDER THE APPROPRIATENESS OF NO CONTACT ORDERS OR SUPERVISED-CONTACT ORDERS WHEN TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS OR FINALIZING ADOPTIONS; TO AUTHORIZE THESE ORDERS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-823.SW0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 63-7-2630(B) and inserting:
(B) When Upon motion of any party, except for a person who is the subject of the termination of parental rights action, or at the discretion of the court, when the court enters an order terminating parental rights pursuant to this article, the court shall:
(1) consider whether a no-contact order or supervised-contact order between the child and any biological parent or relative is necessary to protect the child's safety, welfare, or attachment to the prospective adoptive family or other caregiver; and
(2) if the court determines that a no-contact order or supervised-contact order is not necessary, make written findings on the record stating the factual basis for that determination.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 63-7-2630(C)(5) and inserting:
(5) the effect of contact on the child's safety, stability, and attachment to the prospective adoptive family or other caregiver; and
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 63-7-2630(D)(1) and inserting:
(D)(1) The court may include a no-contact order or supervised-contact order in the final termination of parental rights order when necessary to protect the child, or upon motion of any party to the action, except a person who is the subject of the termination of parental rights action, or at the discretion of the court, may amend a termination of parental rights order to include a no-contact order or supervised-contact order.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 63-7-2630(I) and inserting:
(I) In response to a motion by a party or a request from the court, pursuant to subsection (B) or subsection (D), any party to a termination of parental rights action, or any party to a former termination of parental rights action involving a sibling of the child who is the subject of the current action, who has actual knowledge of the following, shall bring the evidence to the attention of the court for the court's consideration in issuing a no-contact order or supervised-contact order:
(1) incident reports where a party to the termination of parental rights action was alleged to have committed a criminal offense against the child, or a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the termination of parental rights action;
(2) arrest records of a party to the termination of parental rights action or other evidence that shows the party was arrested for a criminal offense against the child, or a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the termination of parental rights action;
(3) arrest records of a party to the termination of parental rights action or other evidence that shows the party was convicted of a criminal offense against the child, or a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the termination of parental rights action; or
(4) documented history of an indicated case of abuse or neglect against a party to the termination of parental rights action where the party was the alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect or harm against the child, or against a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the termination of parental rights action, if the party is named in the Central Registry of Child Abuse and Neglect or if such documented history of an indicated case is less than seven years old at the time of the filing of the termination of parental rights action.
(I) (J) Nothing in this section limits the authority of an adoptive parent or other caregiver not to consent to contact where a no-contact order or supervised-contact order has been modified or terminated by the court.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 63-9-765(B) and inserting:
(B) When Upon motion of any party or at the discretion of the court, when the court enters a final decree of adoption pursuant to this article, the court shall:
(1) consider whether a no-contact order or supervised-contact order between the child and any biological parent or relative is necessary to protect the child's safety, welfare, or attachment to the adoptive family; and
(2) if the court determines that a no-contact order or supervised-contact order is not necessary, make written findings on the record stating the factual basis for that determination.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 63-9-765(D)(1) and inserting:
(D)(1) The court may include a no-contact order or supervised-contact order in the final decree of adoption when necessary to protect the child, or upon motion, may amend an adoption decree to include a no-contact order or supervised-contact order.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 63-9-765(I) and inserting:
(I) In response to a motion by a party or a request from the court pursuant to subsection (B) or subsection (D), any party to an adoption, or any party to the adoption of a sibling of the child who is the subject of the current adoption, who has actual knowledge of the following shall bring the evidence to the attention of the court for the court's consideration in issuing a no-contact or supervised-contact order:
(1) incident reports where a party to the action was alleged to have committed a criminal offense against the child, or a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the adoption action;
(2) arrest records of a party to the action or other evidence that shows the party was arrested for a criminal offense against the child, or a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the adoption action;
(3) arrest records of a party to the action or other evidence that shows the party was convicted of a criminal offense against the child, or a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the adoption action; or
(4) documented history of an indicated case of abuse or neglect against a party to the action where the party was the alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect or harm against the child, or a sibling of the child, who is the subject of the adoption action, if the party is named in the Central Registry of Child Abuse and Neglect or if such documented history of an indicated case is less than seven years old at the time of the filing of the adoption action.
(I) (J) Nothing in this section limits the authority of an adoptive parent not to consent to contact where a no-contact order or supervised-contact order has been modified or terminated by the court.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ELLIOTT 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 Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder 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. 829 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-25-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-25-50, RELATING TO APPLICATION FILED WITH SECRETARY OF STATE, SO AS TO REVISE APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-25-60, RELATING TO APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSIONERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF COMMISSIONER APPOINTMENT AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE AS COMMISSIONER; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-25-70, RELATING TO CHANGE IN MEMBERSHIP OF JOINT SYSTEM, SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR COMMISSIONER APPOINTMENT WHEN A NEW MEMBER IS ADDED TO A JOINT SYSTEM; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-25-80, RELATING TO DISSOLUTION OF SYSTEM, SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR JOINT SYSTEM RECONSTITUTION AND MEMBER WITHDRAWAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-25-110, RELATING TO AUTHORIZATION TO INCUR DEBT AND ISSUE BONDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR BOND ISSUANCE BY A COMMISSION APPOINTED ENTIRELY BY THE GOVERNOR; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 6-25-128, RELATING TO CONTRACTS BETWEEN AUTHORITY AND JOINT SYSTEM; DURATION, SO AS TO PERMIT AUTOMATIC EXTENSION OF CONTRACT PROVISIONS COMMENSURATE WITH TERMS OF BONDS OR OTHER INDEBTEDNESS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-829.BJ0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 6, by striking Section 6-25-110 and inserting:
Section 6-25-110. A joint system may incur debt for any of its purposes and may issue bonds pledging to the payment as to both principal and interest the revenues, or any portion, derived or to be derived from all or any of its projects and any additions and betterments or extensions or contributions or advances from its members or other sources of funds available to it. A joint system may not undertake a project required to be financed, in whole or in part, with the proceeds of bonds without the approval of the governing bodies of each member which is obligated or to be obligated under any contract for the payment of amounts to be pledged as security therefore and a favorable vote of two-thirds of all commissioners. Notwithstanding the foregoing, when a commission is appointed under Section 6-25-60(B)(2), no separate approval of the governing bodies of each member shall be required for the issuance of any bonds, and such bonds shall be authorized and approved by a simple majority of the commissioners. Any project may be preauthorized, preapproved, or otherwise permitted under the terms of the project contract for the joint system, and such authority, approval, or permission shall constitute all necessary approval of the respective governing bodies of each member herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing, when a commission is appointed under Section 6-25-60(B)(2), no separate approval of the governing bodies of each member shall be required for the issuance of any bonds, and such bonds shall be authorized and approved by a simple majority of the commissioners. A joint system formed only for the purpose of creating a financing pool may issue notes in anticipation of the issuance of bonds by its members to the government.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator RANKIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator CORBIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to give the Bill a second reading, carry over all amendments and waive the provisions of Rule 26B in order to allow amendments to be considered on third reading.
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 922--Senators Massey, Alexander, Hutto, Campsen, Leber and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-210, RELATING TO FILLING VACANCIES WHEN THE SENATE IS NOT IN SESSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR WHEN THE GOVERNOR MAY MAKE AN INTERIM APPOINTMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-3-10, RELATING TO THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE MEMBERS OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE; BY ADDING SECTION 1-30-12 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CABINET MEMBERS WILL SERVE COTERMINOUS WITH THE GOVERNOR THAT APPOINTS THEM; BY AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS SO AS TO REMOVE THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE AS A REQUIRMENT FOR CERTAIN APPOINTMENTS MADE BY THE GOVERNOR
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-922.PB0005S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 17, by striking Section 40-35-10(A)(5) and inserting:
(5) one must be a voting member of the Long Term Care Committee of the Health and Human Services Coordinating Council who must be nominated by election of the committee from among its voting members. If the Governor does not accept the nomination, an additional nominee must be selected in the same manner.
The CommissionerDirector of the Department of Public Health and Environmental Control, or his designee, also shall serve as a nonvoting member on the board, ex officio.
An individual, group, or association may submit the names of qualified individuals to the Governor for his consideration in making these appointments.
A vacancy must be filled in the manner of the original appointment for the unexpired portion of the term. A member may not serve more than two consecutive full terms.
Amend the bill further, by deleting SECTION 32 from the bill.
Amend the bill further, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Section 59-51-30 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 59-51-30. The Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School is under the management and control of a board of twelve trustees, all of whom must be elected by the General Assemblyappointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The trustees so electedappointed must be citizens of the State who are interested in the aims and ambitions of the school. Members of the board shall serve for terms of four years and until their successors are elected and qualify. The board shall elect a chairman and a vice chairman. In case a vacancy occurs on the board for any reason other than expiration of a term when the General Assembly is not in session, the Governor may fill it by an interim appointment until the next session of the General Assembly, at which time a successor must be elected for the remainder of the unexpired term pursuant to Section 1-3-210. Elections to fill vacancies which are caused for any reason other than expiration of a term may be held earlier than the first day of April of the year the vacancy is filled. A quorum of the board is seven members.
SECTION X. Section 59-51-35 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 59-51-35. (A) All members of the board of trustees shall complete successfully a training program on the powers, duties, and responsibilities of a board member including, but not limited to, topics on policy development, personnel, school leadership and board relations, at-risk programs, finance, school law, ethics, and community relations, as determined by the board of trustees. Training also must be provided regarding how to best serve the at-risk students in their care.
(B) Within one year of taking office, all persons electedappointed as members of the board of trustees after July 1, 2018, also must complete the training prescribed in subsection (A).
SECTION X. Chapter 3, Title 1 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 1-3-235. Notice of any gubernatorial appointment that does not require the advice and consent of the Senate must be delivered to the clerk of the Senate when the appointment is submitted to the Secretary of State's office.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MASSEY explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator ALEXANDER proposed the following amendment (SR-922.KM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Section 2-15-10 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 2-15-10. There is created the Legislative Audit Council consisting of five six members, one three of whom must be appointed by the President of the Senate and three of whom must be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Of those appointed, one must be a practicing certified public accountant or a licensed public accountant and one of whom must be an attorney. The council must be elected by the General Assembly in a joint session from the nominees presented by the nominating committee. The council also includes as ex officio members the following: the Chairmen of the Senate and House Judiciary Committees or a designee by either chairman from the membership of the respective committees and the Chairmen of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee or a designee by either chairman from the membership of the respective committees. The ex officio members, including their designees, are voting members on all matters except those pertaining to auditing functions and personnel matters. The council is directly responsible to the General Assembly and is independent of any other state agency, board, or department.
SECTION X. Section 2-15-30 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 2-15-30. The terms of office of the members of the Council shall be for six years and until their successors are appointed and qualify, except that of the initial members, one shall be elected for the term of two years, one for a term of four years and one for a term of six years. No person who is either a member of the General Assembly or has served in the General Assembly during the preceding two years shall be elected to the Council. Any member may succeed himself on the Council. The Council shall elect its own chairman.
SECTION X. Section 2-15-20 of the S.C. Code is repealed.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MASSEY explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators MASSEY, LEBER and KIMBRELL proposed the following amendment (SR-922.KM0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. The office of Director of the Department of Public Health is declared vacant as of May 14, 2026. The director must cease to exercise the duties of his office and vacate the premises on or before that date. The Governor may name a current employee of the Department of Public Health as acting director to carry out the duties of the director until a new director is appointed and the Senate confirms the new director. However, the person serving as director as of January 1, 2026 may not be named acting or interim director.
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 Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder 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. 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 HANDHELD HOOK AND LINE AND A HOOK SIZE OF 4/0 OR LARGER.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator CAMPSEN 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 Climer Corbin Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Chaplin
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
H. 3629 (Word version) -- Rep. T. Moore: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 48-23-120, RELATING TO FORESTRY COMMISSION ACQUISITIONS, SO AS TO SET PRICING VALUES; BY AMENDING SECTION 48-23-132, RELATING TO REVENUES FROM SPECIFIED SOURCES, SO AS TO OUTLINE WHAT THE FUNDS MAY BE USED FOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 48-33-60, RELATING TO DUTIES AND POWERS OF COUNTY FORESTRY BOARDS AND EMPLOYEES, SO AS TO SPECIFY DUTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 48-33-70, RELATING TO FOREST FIRE PROTECTION ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO UPDATE PLAN REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 48-33-80, RELATING TO ACCESS TO PROPERTY, SO AS TO DESIGNATE WHO MAY ACCESS LAND FOR THE PURPOSE OF PREVENTING OR CONTROLLING FIRES; BY REPEALING SECTION 48-23-270 RELATING TO USE OF REVENUE FOR SCRUB OAK ERADICATION, REFORESTATION, TIMBER STAND IMPROVEMENT, AND HARVEST CUTTING IN STATE PARKS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 48-23-280 RELATING TO USE OF REVENUE FOR SCRUB OAK ERADICATION AND REFORESTATION IN MANCHESTER AND SANDHILLS STATE FORESTS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry proposed the following amendment (SFGF-3629.BC0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 48-23-120 and inserting:
Section 48-23-120. The State Commission of Forestry may acquire, by purchase, gift, or otherwise, timberland timberlands and submarginal agricultural lands, and cut over forest lands in this State at an average price not to exceed five dollars per acre and in no event above ten dollars per acrethe current appraised value and use such lands for timber production, demonstration in forestry practice, erosion and flood prevention, game sanctuaries, public shooting grounds, public hunting, and places of general recreation. The State Commission of Forestry must not acquire land by purchase at a price exceeding its fair market value.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator CAMPSEN 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 Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder 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.
H. 3831 (Word version) -- Reps. Lawson, Hayes, Sessions, T. Moore, McCravy, Guffey, Chapman, M.M. Smith, Gagnon, Martin, Moss, Duncan, Sanders, Grant, Howard, Bauer, Pedalino, Robbins, Schuessler, Rivers and Waters: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SMART HEART ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-165 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A CARDIAC EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN IN EACH PUBLIC SCHOOL; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-17-155, RELATING TO THE AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR PROGRAM IN HIGH SCHOOLS, SO AS TO PROVIDE EACH PUBLIC SCHOOL SHALL ENSURE THE PRESENCE OF AN AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR ONSITE AND WITHIN CERTAIN PROXIMITY OF SCHOOL ATHLETIC VENUES, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED TESTING, MAINTENANCE, AND PERSONNEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (SEDU-3831.KG0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-17-165(B) and inserting:
(B) Each public school district or charter school authorizer board of trustees shall develop a cardiac emergency response plan that addresses the appropriate use of school personnel to respond to incidents involving an individual experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or a similar life-threatening emergency while on school grounds.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-17-165(D)(1) and inserting:
(D)(1) The State Board of Education shall develop standards, practices, and procedures that must be adopted by public school districts and schools charter school board of trustees when developing a CERP and utilizing training in accordance with nationally recognized, evidence-based standards. Each CERP shall contain at the minimum, the following elements:
(a) establishment of a school-level cardiac emergency response team;
(b) activation of the team in response to a sudden cardiac arrest;
(c) implementation of AED placement and routine maintenance within each school campus;
(d) maintaining ongoing designated staff training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and AED use;
(e) periodic practice of CERP function which may include drills involving individuals identified by the school-level cardiac emergency response team;
(f) integration of local medical resources into the plan; and
(g) ongoing and annual review and evaluation of the plan.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-17-165(H)(1) and inserting:
(H)(1) A public school, public school district, public school district governing authority, charter school, charter school governing board, charter school authorizing authority, the South Carolina Department of Education, and employees, volunteers, and other agents of all of those entities including, but not limited to, a school nurse and other designated school personnel, who undertake an act under this section, are not subject to civil or criminal liability for damages caused by injuries to a student or another person resulting from action taken pursuant to this section.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 59-17-155(A) and (B) and inserting:
(A) Subject to appropriationsfunding by the General Assembly or the South Carolina Department of Education, each school district and the board of each charter school shall develop and implement an automated external defibrillator (AED) program meeting the requirements of Chapter 76, of Title 44 of the 1976 Code for each high school in the district. The program must include provisions that:
(1) require an operational automaticautomated external defibrillator (AED) on the grounds of the high school;
(2) require all persons who are reasonably expected to use the device to obtain appropriate training, including completion of a course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation or a basic first aid course that includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation training and demonstrated proficiency in the use of an automated external defibrillatorAED. The school district superintendent, or the superintendent's designee, and the charter school board of trustees, or charter school board of trustee's designee, shall determine who is reasonably expected to use the device;
(3) establish guidelines for periodic inspections and maintenance of the defibrillators; and
(4) define the purpose of the program and the manner in which the program will operate.
(B) Subject to funding by the General Assembly or South Carolina Department of Education and notwithstanding another provision of law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, each public school, including charter schools, shall ensure that:
(1) an automated external defibrillatorAED, as defined in Section 44-76-20, must be accessible from each on campus school athletic venue and made available in an unlocked location with appropriate signage on school property as identified in the district cardiac emergency response plan. The automated external defibrillatorAED must be accessible during the school day and any other time in which a school-sponsored athletic event or a team practice in which students are participating. The presence of an emergency medical services provider, athletic trainer, school nurse, or athletic coach equipped with an automated external defibrillatorAED at a school athletic venue satisfies this requirement;
(2) an automated external defibrillatorAED, as defined in Section 44-76-20, must be made accessible by the host team at each off-site athletic event as specified in the district cardiac emergency response plan. If the host team is unable to provide an automated external defibrillatorAED, the entity sanctioning the event must ensure that an automated external defibrillatorAED is present. The presence of an emergency medical services provider, athletic trainer, school nurse, or athletic coach equipped with an AED at a school athletic event satisfies this requirement;
(3) each defibrillator must be tested and maintained according to the operational guidelines of the manufacturer and notification must be provided to the appropriate first aid, ambulance, rescue squad, or other appropriate emergency medical services provider regarding the type of defibrillator available and its location; and
(4) all athletics coaches shall obtain and maintain training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid, and the use of the AED. This training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillator AEDuse must be consistent with evidence-based, emergency cardiovascular care guidelines.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 59-17-155(C)(2) and (3) and inserting:
(2) Any designated automated external defibrillatorAED user meeting the requirements of Section 44-76-30(1) and acting according to the required training shall be immune from civil liability for the application of an automated external defibrillatorAED unless the application was grossly negligent.
(3) A person or entity acquiring an automated external defibrillatorAED and meeting the requirements of Section 44-76-30 or an automated external defibrillator AED liaison meeting the requirements of Section 44-76-30 shall be immune from civil liability for the use of an automated external defibrillator AEDby any person or entity described in items (1) or (2) of this subsection.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 5, by striking Section and inserting:
SECTION 5. The provisions of this act take effect July 1, 20252026, and are applicable beginning with the 2026-20272027-2028 School Year.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JOHNSON 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 Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder 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.
H. 4763 (Word version) -- Reps. Oremus, Brittain, W. Newton, Bailey, Bradley, Brewer, Caskey, Crawford, Duncan, Erickson, Forrest, Gagnon, Gatch, Gilliam, Guest, Haddon, Hardee, Hartnett, Hartz, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, J.E. Johnson, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Martin, McCravy, C. Mitchell, B. Newton, Pedalino, Pope, Robbins, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G.M. Smith, M.M. Smith, Taylor, Teeple, Vaughan, Whitmire, Willis, Wooten, Yow, Terribile, White, Lastinger, Wickensimer, Atkinson, Chapman, Gibson, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "HELPING ALLEVIATE LAWFUL OBSTRUCTION (HALO) ACT"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-1092 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERMS "EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PROVIDER", "FIRST RESPONDER", AND "HARASS", TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO APPROACH, IMPEDE, CAUSE HARM TO, OR HARASS A FIRST RESPONDER OR EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PROVIDER AFTER RECEIVING A VERBAL WARNING, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY.
Senator SUTTON objected to consideration of the Bill.
S. 227 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Kimbrell, Matthews, Turner and Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-29-720, RELATING TO ZONING ORDINANCES, SO AS TO DEFINE "CONCURRENCY PROGRAMS"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 6-29-1130, RELATING TO REGULATIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE A REFERENCE TO AN ADOPTED CONCURRENCY PROGRAM.
Senator DAVIS objected to consideration of the Bill.
S. 688 (Word version) -- Senator Massey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-5, RELATING TO CONTRIBUTIONS AND PAYMENTS TO THE UNEMPLOYMENT TRUST FUND DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE LOOKBACK PERIOD FOR THE BENEFIT RATIO; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-45, RELATING TO DEBT STATUS ESTIMATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SOLVENCY TARGET FOR THE FUND; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-60, RELATING TO THE TAX RATE WHEN A DELINQUENT REPORT IS RECEIVED, SO AS TO CHANGE THE PENALTY FOR AN OUTSTANDING LIEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-350, RELATING TO THE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO FILE A REPORT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CAP ON THE PENALTY FOR FAILING TO FILE A REPORT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-370, RELATING TO INTEREST ON UNPAID CONTRIBUTIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CAP ON THE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO PAY CONTRIBUTIONS.
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. 830 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-122, RELATING TO INSURERS AND AGENTS PROHIBITED FROM REFUSING TO ISSUE AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE POLICIES DUE TO CERTAIN FACTORS AND PROHIBITED FACTORS FOR PREMIUM RATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT INSURERS CAN LIMIT THE ISSUANCE OF INSURANCE TO MEMBERS OF PARTICULAR NON-PROFIT MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS.
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. 851 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Young and Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 34-3-900 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO THE FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION OF AN ELIGIBLE ADULT AND TO OUTLINE A PROCEDURE FOR ESTABLISHING EMERGENCY CONTACTS FOR AN ELIGIBLE ADULT TO PROTECT THE ELIGIBLE ADULT FROM FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION.
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. 996 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Sutton, Reichenbach, Devine, Zell, Elliott and Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-13-190, RELATING TO FINGERPRINT-BASED BACKGROUND CHECKS OF DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES PERSONNEL, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT A PERSON WHO HAS DIRECT UNSUPERVISED CONTACT WITH A CHILD IN THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES SHALL UNDERGO A STATE FINGERPRINT-BASED BACKGROUND CHECK.
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. 1011 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, THE STATE FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY AUTHORITY, OR THE APPROPRIATE AGENCY, TO TRANSFER THE NATIONAL GUARD ARMORY IN THE CITY OF BARNWELL, SOUTH CAROLINA, TO BARNWELL COUNTY.
Senator MARTIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Resolution 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. 5107 (Word version) -- Reps. Schuessler, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J.E. Johnson, J.L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Scott, Sessions, G.M. Smith, M.M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DEDICATE THE CITY OF CONWAY IN HORRY COUNTY AS THE HOLIDAY CAPITAL OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
S. 1012 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Massey and Hutto: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO INVITE THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT, THE HONORABLE JOHN W. KITTREDGE, TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION ON THE STATE OF THE JUDICIARY IN THE HALL OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AT 12:00 NOON ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
H. 4444 (Word version) -- Rep. Forrest: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME A ONE-MILE PORTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 378 FROM THE TRAFFIC CIRCLE IN SALUDA COUNTY WEST TOWARDS THE TOWN OF SALUDA "FIREMAN LANDON 'CALE' BODIE MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4445 (Word version) -- Rep. Forrest: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 391 IN SALUDA COUNTY FROM THE LEXINGTON/SALUDA COUNTY LINE EXTENDING ONE MILE NORTH THE "FIRE CHIEF CHAD SATCHER MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE INTERRUPTED DEBATE.
H. 3924 (Word version) -- Reps. Wooten, W. Newton, Erickson, Neese, Hager, Bannister, Herbkersman, M.M. Smith, Pedalino, C. 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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
Debate was interrupted by adjournment.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, Dillon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Dillon County:
Mackie D. Hayes, 318 Lee Circle, Dillion, SC 29536
Reappointment, Marion County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Marion County:
Kelik Donald Fling, 404 McTavish Moor Court, Marion, SC 29571
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
At 2:06 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 1:00 P.M.
This web page was last updated on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 3:08 P.M.