NO. 41
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 1:00 P.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.
A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:
Daniel 12:3
In the book of Daniel, we read that a messenger from God announces that: "Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever." My friends, let us pray: Most Holy God, with great delight do we give unending thanks for those who labor to honor You here in the Senate of South Carolina, doing so unfailingly as they use well their talents and gifts. And just as You reminded Daniel himself, Lord, that servants who truly care about those whom they serve will indeed "shine like the brightness of the heavens," may that prove true for each of Your servants in this Senate, laboring as they do on behalf of all South Carolinians. And we simultaneously pray, O Lord, for everyone in those places around the globe where terror and warfare rage, those places where sadly no heavenly brightness currently shines at all. By Your grace, dear God, bring peace and hope to every corner of this planet. We so pray in Your loving name, O Lord. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson 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:
Reappointment, South Carolina Residential Builders Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
7th Congressional District:
Bryan H. Dowd, 3413 Flowers Road, Florence, SC 29505
Referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Medical Examiners, with the term to commence December 31, 2026, and to expire December 31, 2030
At-Large, Doctor:
Theresa Mills-Floyd, 47 Love Valley Court, Chapin, SC 29036-8591
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Nursing, with the term to commence December 31, 2026, and to expire December 31, 2030
At-Large, Licensed Practical Nurse:
Melissa May-Engel, 1109 Aderly Oak Drive, Irmo, SC 29063-7892
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Harriet A. Bonds, 103 Silverhill Road, Walterboro, SC 29488-3555
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Elbert O. Duffie III, 1075 Dallas Lane, Walterboro, SC 29488-8190
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Sophia T. Henderson, 1145 Oakman Branch Road, Walterboro, SC 29488-7877
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Roosevelt LaShon Jenkins, 1328 Adnah Church Road, Islandton, SC 29929-5220
Senator TEDDER introduced Dr. Wesley Frierson of Lexington, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, at 1:20 P.M., Senator KIMBRELL was granted a leave of absence until 2:00 P.M.
At 1:48 P.M., Senator LEBER requested a leave of absence for the balance of the day until Tuesday, March 30, 2026.
On motion of Senator RICE, at 1:51 P.M., Senator GARRETT was granted a leave of absence for today and Thursday, March 26, 2026.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, at 6:21 P.M., Senator DAVIS was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, at 6:21 P.M., Senator GAMBRELL was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, at 6:21 P.M., Senator YOUNG was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator RANKIN, at 6:21 P.M., Senator HEMBREE was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator STUBBS, at 6:25 P.M., Senator CHAPLIN was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator ZELL, at 6:28 P.M., Senator FERNANDEZ was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
Senator DAVIS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator CLIMER, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator DAVIS, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator ADAMS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator ADAMS, 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. 688 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 862 (Word version) Sen. Devine
S. 895 (Word version) Sens. Alexander and Hutto
The following were introduced:
S. 1047 (Word version) -- Senator Reichenbach: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE WEST FLORENCE HIGH SCHOOL WOMEN'S TENNIS TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING THE 2025 SOUTH CAROLINA HIGH SCHOOL LEAGUE CLASS AAAAA DIVISION II STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1048 (Word version) -- Senator Corbin: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING UNITS IN THE BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY IN GREENVILLE COUNTY MUST BE BUILT ON FIVE ACRE TRACTS, TO PROVIDE THAT MULTI-FAMILY DWELLINGS BUILT IN THE BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY MUST BE BUILT ON A TRACT OF LAND THAT IS EQUAL TO FIVE ACRES OF LAND FOR EACH DWELLING UNIT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXCEPTION.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.
S. 1049 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE HOUSE COMMITTEE TO MODIFY THE MONUMENT ERECTED ON THE STATE HOUSE GROUNDS TO HONOR THE VETERANS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, SO AS TO ADD A FEATURE IN RECOGNITION OF THE UNITED STATES SPACE FORCE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 1050 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE HAMPTON COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE SHALL RECEIVE ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR EACH MEETING AT WHICH HE IS IN ATTENDANCE AND THAT THE CHAIRMAN SHALL RECEIVE ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLARS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHAIRMAN SHALL NOT APPROVE SUCH PAYMENTS MORE THAN EIGHTEEN TIMES EACH FISCAL YEAR.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.
S. 1051 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE COLLETON COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE SHALL RECEIVE ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR EACH MEETING AT WHICH HE IS IN ATTENDANCE AND THAT THE CHAIRMAN SHALL RECEIVE ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLARS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHAIRMAN SHALL NOT APPROVE SUCH PAYMENTS MORE THAN EIGHTEEN TIMES EACH FISCAL YEAR.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.
S. 1052 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE JASPER COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE SHALL RECEIVE ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR EACH MEETING AT WHICH HE IS IN ATTENDANCE AND THAT THE CHAIRMAN SHALL RECEIVE ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLARS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHAIRMAN SHALL NOT APPROVE SUCH PAYMENTS MORE THAN EIGHTEEN TIMES EACH FISCAL YEAR.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.
S. 1053 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE SECTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 321 IN ESTILL FROM THE SOUTHERN TOWN LIMIT BOUNDARY TO THE NORTHERN TOWN LIMIT BOUNDARY IN HAMPTON COUNTY "LOUISE G. HOPKINS HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 1054 (Word version) -- Senators Kimbrell, Rice, Adams, Johnson, Massey, Climer, Elliott and Bright: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RESPECTFULLY REQUEST THAT THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS PROPOSE AN AMENDMENT TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE STATES FOR RATIFICATION PROVIDING THAT ONLY CITIZENS OF THE UNITED STATES MAY QUALIFY TO VOTE IN ANY PRIMARY OR OTHER ELECTION FOR PRESIDENT OR VICE PRESIDENT, FOR ELECTORS FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT, OR FOR SENATOR OR REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 1055 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 3 IN ESTILL FROM US 321 TO ORANGEBURG ROAD IN HAMPTON COUNTY "THE HONORABLE ANDERSON TAYLOR HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 1056 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Adams, Alexander, Allen, Bennett, Blackmon, Bright, Campsen, Cash, Chaplin, Climer, Corbin, Cromer, Davis, Devine, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Garrett, Goldfinch, Graham, Grooms, Hembree, Hutto, Jackson, Johnson, Kennedy, Kimbrell, Leber, Martin, Massey, Matthews, Ott, Peeler, Rankin, Reichenbach, Rice, Sabb, Stubbs, Sutton, Tedder, Turner, Verdin, Walker, Williams and Zell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR SOUTH CAROLINA VETERANS WHO SERVED IN THE GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM AND TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE SACRIFICES AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE MEN AND WOMEN FROM THIS STATE WHO SERVED IN THIS CONFLICT.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 1057 (Word version) -- Senators Sutton, Hutto, Jackson, Tedder, Matthews, Devine, Graham and Williams: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR STEPHEN TYRONE COLBERT, A NATIVE SON OF SOUTH CAROLINA, UPON THE OCCASION OF THE FINAL EPISODE OF THE LATE SHOW WITH STEPHEN COLBERT, AND TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO AMERICAN TELEVISION, COMEDY, AND PUBLIC DISCOURSE.
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Senator SUTTON spoke on the Resolution.
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1058 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell and Cash: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE ANGELA BOWEN UPON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT, TO COMMEND HER FOR HER YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE, AND TO WISH HER MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
H. 4128 (Word version) -- Reps. King and McDaniel: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF ESTES LANE IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH STATE ROAD S-20-60 TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH LANDIS ROAD "MARY LUCILLE KENNEDY MCDANIEL ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
H. 5396 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, 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, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE CONTRIBUTIONS AND PERSONAL SACRIFICES OUR MILITARY CHILDREN MAKE AND TO DESIGNATE APRIL 2026 AS "MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable report on:
S. 863 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Cromer, Martin, Bennett, Rankin, Tedder and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-103-15, RELATING TO THE STATE'S MISSION AND GOALS FOR HIGHER EDUCATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN APPLIED BACCALAUREATE IN CULINARY ARTS MANAGEMENT DEGREE FROM INSTITUTIONS THAT ARE PART OF THE STATE TECHNICAL AND COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATION SYSTEM; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-103-15, RELATING TO FUNDING FOR CERTAIN DEGREES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT APPLIED BACCALAUREATE IN CULINARY ARTS MANAGEMENT DEGREE PROGRAMS ARE ONLY ALLOWED IF STATE FUNDS ARE NOT APPROPRIATED TO FUND THE PROGRAMS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3195 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Pope, Pedalino, Chumley, Taylor, Erickson, Bradley, Hixon, Ligon, Weeks, Oremus, Hartz, Williams, Luck, Gilliard, Rivers and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-10, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN MANDATORY MINIMUM PERIODS FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND OUTDOOR RECESS IN FOUR-YEAR-OLD KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE EACH YEAR IN ADDITION TO OTHER CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE RECESS PERIODS MUST BE HELD INDOORS DURING TIMES OF INCLEMENT WEATHER; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-30, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITY DIRECTORS AND VOLUNTEERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND TO REDESIGNATE ARTICLE 1 OF CHAPTER 10, TITLE 59 AS "PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ACTIVITY."
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3258 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Gilliam, Martin, Grant, M.M. Smith, Schuessler and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-66-35 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE ACQUISITION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF MOBILE PANIC ALERT SYSTEMS IN EACH PUBLIC SCHOOL IN THE STATE, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SYSTEMS, AND TO PROVIDE PROCUREMENT AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3453 (Word version) -- Reps. Rose, Pope, Spann-Wilder and J. Moore: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-111-20, RELATING TO FREE TUITION FOR CERTAIN VETERANS' CHILDREN, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VETERAN'S CHILD QUALIFIES FOR FREE TUITION IF THAT CHILD HAS BEEN A RESIDENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE BIRTH.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 5064 (Word version) -- Reps. Yow, Hayes, C. Mitchell, Luck and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-53-510, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE NORTHEASTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE AREA COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REPRESENTATION FROM LOCAL INDUSTRY MAY INCLUDE CERTAIN EX OFFICIO MEMBERS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, South Carolina Arts Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2027
At-Large:
Flavia B. Harton, 321 Belmont Avenue, Greenville, SC 29601
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., March 25, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., March 25, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., March 25, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., March 25, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R.112, H.4902 by a vote of 88 to 22
(R112, 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: AN ACT 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.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
The veto was ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
At 1:56 P.M., on motion of Senator PEELER, the House of Representatives was invited to attend the Senate Chamber for the purpose of ratifying Acts at a mutually convenient time.
A message was sent to the House accordingly.
Pursuant to an invitation the Honorable Speaker and House of Representatives appeared in the Senate Chamber on March 25, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. and the following Acts were ratified:
(R114, H. 3629 (Word version)) -- Rep. T. Moore: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 48-23-120, RELATING TO FORESTRY COMMISSION ACQUISITIONS, SO AS TO PERMIT ACQUISITION OF TIMBERLANDS AND AGRICULTURAL LANDS, TO PROVIDE FOR USES OF THOSE LANDS AND PROHIBIT ACQUISITION OF LAND AT A PRICE EXCEEDING ITS FAIR MARKET VALUE; 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.
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(R115, 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: AN ACT 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.
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(R116, 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: AN ACT 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 PROVIDE FOR REGULATIONS ON WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTORS; 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 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 42.8571 PERCENT OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF WATERCRAFT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-23-425, RELATING TO THE DENIAL OF RENEWAL OF REGISTRATION, SO AS TO INCLUDE OUTBOARD MOTORS; BY ADDING SECTIONS 50-23-430, 50-23-440, 50-23-450, 50-23-460, 50-23-470, AND 50-23-480 ALL SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR REGISTRATION OF OUTBOARD MOTORS; BY REPEALING SECTIONS 50-23-350 AND 50-23-380 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATES OF NUMBER BY AGENTS AND THE TRANSFER OF REGISTRATION UPON CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP, RESPECTIVELY; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-23-320, RELATING TO THE NUMBERING OF VESSEL EXCEPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR A VESSEL COVERED BY A FEDERALLY APPROVED NUMBERING SYSTEM OF ANOTHER STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-21-10, RELATING TO WATERCRAFT DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "OUTBOARD MOTOR"; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO WATERCRAFT AND MOTORS PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE MOTORS FROM THE EXEMPTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-714, RELATING TO BOATS WITH SITUS IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO BOAT MOTORS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3200, RELATING TO THE TAX YEAR FOR BOATS, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO BOAT MOTORS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX RETURNS FOR BOATS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN PROPERTY TAX RETURNS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3230, RELATING TO THE ASSESSED VALUE OF BOATS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF BOATS AND WATERCRAFT AND ANY AFFIXED OUTBOARD MOTORS AS A SINGLE UNIT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3240, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM BOAT AND WATERCRAFT TAX, SO AS TO REMOVE A REFERENCE TO BOAT MOTORS.
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(R117, H. 4216 (Word version)) -- Reps. Bannister, Pope, G.M. Smith, B. Newton, Hiott, Murphy, Moss, Crawford, Bradley, Hager, M.M. Smith, Bustos, Landing, Lowe, Lawson, B.J. Cox, Jordan, Brittain, Forrest, Neese, Vaughan, Long, Montgomery, Davis, Sessions, C. Mitchell, Gatch, Herbkersman, Schuessler, Caskey, T. Moore, Hewitt, Erickson, Bowers, Gilliam, Teeple, Guest, Bailey, Guffey, Holman, Yow, Ballentine, Martin, Calhoon, Taylor, Hartnett, Robbins, Willis, B.L. Cox, Ligon, Brewer, Gagnon, Hartz, Hixon and Pedalino: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-510, RELATING TO INCOME TAX RATES FOR INDIVIDUALS, ESTATES, AND TRUSTS, SO AS TO REDUCE THE TOP MARGINAL INCOME TAX RATE TO 5.21 PERCENT, TO CREATE ANOTHER INCOME TAX BRACKET TO WHICH A 1.99 PERCENT RATE APPLIES, AND TO SET FORTH STANDARDS FOR ADDITIONAL REDUCTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-50, RELATING TO INTERNAL REVENUE CODE SECTIONS SPECIFICALLY NOT ADOPTED BY THE STATE, SO AS TO NOT ADOPT THE FEDERAL STANDARD DEDUCTION AND ITEMIZED DEDUCTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1140, RELATING TO INCOME TAX DEDUCTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR A SOUTH CAROLINA INCOME ADJUSTED DEDUCTION (SCIAD); BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-4910, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED TO FILE A TAX RETURN, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE TO THE CALCULATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1720, RELATING TO ADJUSTMENTS TO THE TAXABLE INCOME OF NONRESIDENT INDIVIDUALS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3632, RELATING TO THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A MAXIMUM CREDIT AMOUNT.
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(R118, H. 5182 (Word version)) -- Reps. Hager, Erickson and W. Newton: AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE THE JASPER COUNTY COUNCIL TO PROVIDE LOCAL FUNDS ON A PER-PUPIL BASIS TO CHARTER SCHOOLS IN THE COUNTY THAT SATISFY CERTAIN CRITERIA, AND TO PROVIDE THE COUNCIL MAY DESIGNATE AND ALLOCATE ANY COUNTY REVENUE SOURCE FOR ALLOCATION TO ELIGIBLE CHARTER SCHOOLS.
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THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
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.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, under Rule 26B, the Senate agreed to take up further amendments on third reading.
Senators HUTTO, CORBIN, RICE and BRIGHT proposed the following amendment (SMIN-808.MW0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 16-7-10(A)(4)(b) and inserting:
(b) wilfully and knowingly assault or engage in behavior that could endanger a worker restoring critical services or destroy, damage, or tamper with an electric utility system, as defined by Section 16-11-740. A person violating a provision of this item shall be guilty of a felony misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined or imprisoned or both in the discretion of the court.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Chaplin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Cash Climer Corbin Martin Massey
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered sent to the House.
S. 76 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms, Young, Goldfinch, Sabb, Alexander, Kennedy, Cromer, Zell, Williams and Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-230, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-240, RELATING TO USE OF OR THREAT OF PHYSICAL VIOLENCE BY CRIMINAL GANG MEMBERS AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH UNLAWFUL CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-245 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADMISSIBILITY OF CRIMINAL GANG AND CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY EVIDENCE DURING A TRIAL OR PROCEEDING; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-250, RELATING TO PREVENTING WITNESSES OR VICTIMS FROM TESTIFYING AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A MECHANISM TO ABATE A PUBLIC NUISANCE OF REAL PROPERTY USED BY A CRIMINAL GANG; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-275 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADMISSIBILITY IN A CRIMINAL PROCEEDING OF THE ACCUSED'S COMMISSION OF CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-520 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DEFINITIONS FOR THE ANTI-RACKETEERING ACT; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-530 SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO ENGAGE IN RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-540 SO AS TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR ENGAGING IN RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-550 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CIRCUIT COURT MAY ENJOIN VIOLATIONS OF THE ANTI-RACKETEERING ACT BY ISSUING APPROPRIATE ORDERS; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-560 SO AS TO ESTABLISH JURISDICTION FOR RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-570 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM DISCLOSURE OF INFORMANTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-1630, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF JURIES, NOTIFICATION TO IMPANEL JURIES, POWERS AND DUTIES OF IMPANELING AND PRESIDING JUDGES, THE TRANSFER OF INCOMPLETE INVESTIGATIONS, EFFECTIVE DATES AND NOTICE REQUIREMENTS WITH RESPECT TO ORDERS OF JUDGE, AND APPEALS, SO AS TO ADD THE CRIME OF RACKETEERING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE STATE GRAND JURY.
On motion of Senator CORBIN, the Bill was carried over.
S. 270 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Hembree and Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-29, RELATING TO ATTEMPTED MURDER, SO AS TO DEFINE ATTEMPTED MURDER AS COMMITTING AN UNLAWFUL ACT OF A VIOLENT NATURE THAT CAUSES INJURY TO ANOTHER WITH MALICE.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, the Bill was carried over.
S. 428 (Word version) -- Senators Allen, Hembree and Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 34-11-90, RELATING TO JURISDICTION FOR OFFENSES INVOLVING CHECKS AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A METHOD TO EXPUNGE CONVICTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 17-22-910, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR EXPUNGEMENT, SO AS TO ADD MULTIPLE MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES OF CHECK FRAUD TO THOSE OFFENSES ELIGIBLE FOR EXPUNGEMENT; AND BY ADDING SECTION 17-1-43 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DESTRUCTION OF ARREST RECORDS OF PERSONS MADE AS A RESULT OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-428.SW0002S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 34-11-90(f) and inserting:
(f) notwithstanding another provision of law, if a defendant receives multiple convictions within a three-year period of time in magistrates court for a violation of this section, the defendant may, after ten years from the date of the last conviction, apply or cause someone acting on his behalf to apply, to the court for an order expunging the records of arrest and the multiple convictions. This provision does not apply to any crime classified as a felony. If the defendant receives no other convictions, pursuant to this section, during the ten-year period following the last conviction under this section and full restitution has been made on all checks that are the subject of the convictions, the court must issue an order expunging the records. No person may take advantage of the rights permitted by this subsection more than once. Neither the application for nor The successful expungement of a qualifying applicant's record as authorized by subsection (e) precludes application for and expungement of a qualifying applicant's record under this subsection. After the expungement, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is required to keep a nonpublic record of the offense and the date of its expungement to ensure that no person takes advantage of the rights permitted by this subsection more than once. This nonpublic record is not subject to release under Section 34-11-95, the Freedom of Information Act, or any other provision of law except to those authorized law or court officials who need this information in order to prevent the rights afforded by this subsection from being taken advantage of more than once.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senator HEMBREE explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs 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. 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. 711 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Walker: 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.
Senator JOHNSON 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 Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Martin
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 688 (Word version) -- Senators Massey and Kimbrell: 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator MASSEY explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator GAMBRELL explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Banking and Insurance proposed the following amendment (LC-851.PH0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 34-3-900(A)(3)(a) and (b) and inserting:
(a) improper, unlawful, or unauthorized use of the funds, assets, property, power of attorney, guardianship, or conservatorship of a vulnerable adult by a person for the profit or advantage of that person or another person; orthe wrongful or unauthorized taking, withholding, appropriation, or use of the money, assets, or property of an eligible adult; or
(b) causing an eligible adult to purchase goods or services or engage in a transaction for the profit or advantage of the seller or another person through undue influence, harassment, duress, force, coercion, or swindling by overreaching, cheating, or defrauding the eligible adult through cunning arts or devices that delude the eligible adult and cause him to lose money or other property.any act or omission taken by a person, including through the use of a power of attorney, guardianship, or conservatorship of an eligible adult, to:
(i) obtain the control, use, or benefit, through deception, intimidation, or undue influence, or by the use of any scheme, device, or artifice to defraud, of the eligible adult's money, assets, or property to deprive the eligible adult of the ownership, use, benefit, or possession of his money, assets, or property; or
(ii) convert the money, assets, or property of the eligible adult to deprive the eligible adult of the ownership, use, benefit, or possession of his money, assets, or property.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 34-3-900(F) and inserting:
(F) Any decline or hold of a disbursement or transaction, that has not been declined due to suspected fraud, as authorized by this section will expire upon:
(1) the sooner of:
(1)(a) a determination by the financial institution that allowing the transaction will not result in the financial exploitation of an eligible adult; or
(2)(b) thirty business days after the date on which the financial institution first declined or placed on hold the transaction unless an appropriate investigative entity as set forth in Section 43-35-10(5) requests that the financial institution extend the delay, in which case the delay shall expire no more than fifty-five business days after the date on which the financial institution first declined or placed on hold the transaction; orunless
(2) sooner terminated or extended by an order of a court of competent jurisdiction.
(3) the order of a court of competent jurisdiction.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GAMBRELL explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb 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. 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator REICHENBACH explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Resolution.
Senator HUTTO explained the Resolution.
The question being the second reading of the Resolution.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Resolution was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 97 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-45-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ELIGIBLE TO HOLD THE OFFICE OF COUNTY TREASURER.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (LC-97.DG0001S):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 12-45-25, by striking the undesignated paragraph before the first item and inserting:
In For persons first elected or first appointed to serve as the county treasurer after November 1, 2026, in order to be eligible to serve or continue to serve as the county treasurer, a person must:
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 12-45-25(3)(b)(iii) and (c) and inserting:
(iii) as a treasurer in this State; and
(c) for an appointed treasurer, a person must comply with any county requirements not conflicting with the qualifications in this section and the Constitution of South Carolina.
Amend the bill further, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Chapter 45, Title 12 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 12-45-18. (A) Any person first elected or first appointed to serve as the county treasurer after November 1, 2026, shall complete a forty-hour training program that the department establishes or causes to be established. Failure to complete satisfactorily this course in any year results in the treasurer forfeiting five thousand dollars of his state salary supplement each year until the course is completed. The content, cost, and dates of the courses must be determined by the department.
(B)(1) The department, for reasonable cause, may excuse a county treasurer from attending this course for no more than one year. If excused, the treasurer does not forfeit five thousand dollars of his state salary supplement for that year.
(2) The department may credit some or all of the training program hours towards the continuing education courses required by Section 12-45-15 in the year in which the training program is completed.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator VERDIN explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the Bill was carried over.
S. 98 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-39-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ELIGIBLE TO HOLD THE OFFICE OF COUNTY AUDITOR.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, the Bill was carried over.
S. 344 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Ott, Graham, Adams, Peeler, Leber and Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA EQUINE ADVANCEMENT ACT"; BY ADDING CHAPTER 61 TO TITLE 11 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA EQUINE COMMISSION AS A GRANT PROGRAM THAT ASSISTS THE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE EQUINE INDUSTRY IN SOUTH CAROLINA, TO PROVIDE APPLICATION GUIDELINES FOR PARI-MUTUEL WAGERING, TO ESTABLSIH THE POWERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA EQUINE COMMISSION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE EQUINE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT FUND, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS RELATED TO HORSE RACING.
Senator CASH objected to consideration of the Bill.
S. 682 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Kimbrell, Corbin, Gambrell, Cromer, Massey, Rice, Verdin, Campsen, Kennedy, Garrett, Elliott, Stubbs, Ott, Nutt and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3830 SO AS TO ALLOW AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR A TIMBER CASUALTY LOSS IN A FEDERALLY DECLARED DISASTER AREA RESULTING FROM HURRICANE HELENE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1140, RELATING TO DEDUCTIONS FROM INDIVIDUAL TAXABLE INCOME, SO AS TO ALLOW A DEDUCTION FOR PAYMENTS RECEIVED FROM CERTAIN DISASTER RELIEF AGENCIES RESULTING FROM HURRICANE HELENE.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (LC-682.DG0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 12-6-3830(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
(1) A taxpayer is allowed an income tax credit in an amount equal to one hundred percent of the taxpayer's timber casualty loss in a federally declared disaster area from Hurricane Helene which struck in September 2024. The credit amount shall not exceed the number of the taxpayer's affected acres of eligible timber property in the disaster areas multiplied by five hundred fifty dollars. The total calculated amount of the credit for the timber casualty loss must be reduced by any private insurance payments or federal assistance received by the property owner for the same timber casualty loss. Any unused credit may be carried forward for the next five tax years.
(2) Notwithstanding item (1), the maximum aggregate credit for all taxpayers in all tax years may not exceed twenty-five million dollars. The credit is allowed on a first come first served basis.If the total amount of credits claimed in a tax year exceeds the maximum amount, then the amount of each credit must be reduced proportionately based on the taxpayer's eligible timber casualty loss compared to all eligible timber casualty losses.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator TURNER explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.
H. 3368 (Word version) -- Reps. Long, Forrest, Yow, C. Mitchell, Magnuson, Calhoon, J.E. Johnson, Crawford, Erickson, Davis, Bradley, Hager, Hartz, McCravy, Ballentine, Bowers, Bailey, Hardee, Guest, Hewitt, Jordan, Lowe, McGinnis, Sessions, Caskey, B. Newton, Hiott, Gilliam, Bannister, G.M. Smith, Ligon, Bustos, Hartnett, W. Newton, Wooten, Oremus, Pedalino, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox, Landing, Robbins, Martin, Brewer, Ford, Teeple, Vaughan, Pope, Chapman, Gagnon, Gibson, Whitmire, Rankin, Sanders, Duncan, Wickensimer, Haddon, Herbkersman, Lawson, T. Moore, Taylor, Holman and Schuessler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1120, RELATING TO MODIFICATIONS TO GROSS INCOME FOR INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX PURPOSES, SO AS TO EXCLUDE OVERTIME PAY AND CERTAIN BONUS PAY FROM GROSS INCOME.
Senator BENNETT objected to consideration of the Bill.
H. 3514 (Word version) -- Reps. Wooten, Mitchell, Pedalino, Guest, Crawford and Pope: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 11-1-130 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT STATE DEPARTMENTS, AGENCIES, INSTITUTIONS, AND POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS MAY NOT USE PUBLIC FUNDS TO PURCHASE CERTAIN FLAGS UNLESS THE FLAGS ARE MADE IN THE UNITED STATES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
H. 3768 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, Gatch, Robbins, Schuessler and Sessions: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ACT 36 OF 2019, RELATING TO HIGHWAY SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION, SO AS TO CHANGE THE SUNSET EXPIRATION PROVISION TO JULY 1, 2031.
Senator BENNETT objected to consideration of the Bill.
S. 862 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder, Elliott and Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-17-412 SO AS TO ALLOW PARENTS TO MAKE CERTAIN HEALTHCARE DECISIONS FOR CHILDREN OVER THE AGE OF EIGHTEEN IF THE CHILD QUALIFIES AS A DEPENDENT ON AND IS COVERED BY THE PARENTS' HEALTH INSURANCE.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee of Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (SMIN-862.MW0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-17-412 and inserting:
Section 44-17-412. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, a parent has the authority to make healthcare decisions related to the emergency admission of a child who is over the age of eighteen for mental health services pursuant to this article if the child qualifies as a dependent on and is covered by the parent's health insurance.(A) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a parent or legal guardian may exercise temporary decision-making authority in regards to the matter of involuntary temporary commitment on behalf of an adult child during a verified medical or behavioral health crisis when the conditions in subsection (B) are satisfied.
(B) Temporary authority pursuant to this section applies only when:
(1) a licensed physician determines that the adult individual is experiencing a medical or behavioral health crisis and is temporarily unable to make informed decisions regarding his care or safety; and
(2) the parent or legal guardian is physically present with the adult individual during the crisis intervention or treatment.
(C) Authority granted pursuant to this section is limited to decisions necessary to address the immediate crisis and may not extend beyond forty-eight hours from the time of the physician's written determination unless a new determination is made by a licensed physician. If a subsequent determination is made by the original licensed physician, the determination must be reviewed and confirmed by a second licensed physician who independently reaches the same determination.
(D) Nothing in this section authorizes a parent or legal guardian to exercise ongoing guardianship authority or to override a valid advance directive executed by the adult individual.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator VERDIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb 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.
Senator MASSEY and YOUNG desired to be recorded as voting against the second reading of the Bill.
S. 893 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-2-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO THE STATE UNDERGROUND PETROLEUM ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE BANK ACT OF 1988, SO AS TO DEFINE A PIPELINE FACILITY IN ACCORDANCE WITH 49 U.S.C. CHAPTER 601; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-2-40, RELATING TO THE SUPERB ACCOUNT AND SUPERB FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FUND, SO AS TO ADJUST THE ALLOWABLE COSTS FOR SITE REHABILITATION BY THE FUND AND MAKE OTHER CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-2-60, RELATING TO THE REGISTRATION OF UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FEE, SO AS TO SET CERTAIN YEARS FOR THE RENEWAL FEE TO BE ADJUSTED; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-2-130, RELATING TO COMPENSATION FROM THE SUPERB ACCOUNT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-2-150, RELATING TO THE SUPERB ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO DEFINE THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE SUPERB ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (SR-893.KM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-2-20(24)(d)(ii) and inserting:
(ii) an intrastate pipeline facility regulated under state laws provided in 49 U.S.C. Chapter 601 and which is determined by the United States Secretary of Transportation to be connected to a pipeline, or to be operated or intended to be capable of operating at a pipeline pressure or as an integral part of a pipeline;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 44-2-60(A) and inserting:
(A) The owner or operator of an underground storage tank which stores or is intended to store a regulated substance shall register the tank with the department. The owner or operator of the tank shall display a registration certificate listing all registered tanks at a facility and in plain view in the office or the kiosk of the facility where the tanks are registered. Upon application for a registration certificate, the owner or operator shall pay to the department an initial registration fee of one hundred dollars a for each tank; however, the department may prorate the initial registration fees on a daily basis for underground storage tanks installed on or after July 1, 1997. The owner or operator shall pay to the department an annual renewal fee of one hundred dollars a tank a each year. Beginning JanuaryAugust July 1, 20122029, the annual renewal fee for each tank will be as follows:
(1) 20122029:- two hundred dollars;
(2) 20132034:-three two hundred fifty dollars; and
(3) 20142039: -four three hundred dollars.; and
(4) 2015-five hundred dollars.
The additional revenue generated from the tank fee increases listed above must be deposited into the Superb Account. No portion of the increases may be used by the department for administration of the program or for orphan sites as defined in Section 44-2-20(11).
When the Superb Account is credited with an additional thirty-six million dollars from the increase in tank fees, general appropriations, settlements, or other sources of funds including federal funds designated for cleanup, or declared insolvent, the tank registration fee shall revert to one hundred dollars annually for each tank beginning January first of the next year.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GAMBRELL explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, the Bill was carried over.
S. 895 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin, Alexander and Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-7-130, RELATING TO STATE HEALTH FACILITY LICENSURE ACT DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD TO THE DEFINITION OF "HOSPITAL" ALL HOSPITALS THAT CONVERT TO RURAL EMERGENCY HOSPITALS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator VERDIN explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
H. 3967 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Ligon, Brewer, Bannister, Forrest, Herbkersman, Hixon, Duncan and Sanders: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 48-23-185 SO AS TO DEFINE "BIOMASS" AND OTHER RELEVANT TERMS; TO REQUIRE THAT ENERGY PRODUCED FROM CERTAIN SOURCES BE CONSIDERED CARBON NEUTRAL AND FROM OTHER SOURCES CARBON NEGATIVE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator GAMBRELL explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 812 (Word version) -- Senator Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-970, RELATING TO THE TRAFFIC-CONTROL SIGNAL LEGEND, SO AS TO REQUIRE A PERSON RIDING A BICYCLE TO STOP FULLY AT A RED LIGHT BUT TO ALLOW THE PERSON TO PROCEED WHEN IT IS SAFE TO DO SO; AND BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-3530 SO AS TO ALLOW A PERSON RIDING A BICYCLE TO YIELD AT STOP SIGNS WHEN IT IS SAFE TO DO SO.
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. 894 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-63-74, RELATING TO THE ELECTRONIC FILING AND TRANSMISSION OF DEATH CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR A DEATH CERTIFICATE TO BE FILED ON THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY FOLLOWING THE WEEKEND OR A HOLIDAY.
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. 935 (Word version) -- Senator Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-1-320 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO CREATE A PAMPHLET ON RENDERING SEIZURE FIRST AID TO INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE SUFFERED A SEIZURE IN THE WORKPLACE AND TO REQUIRE STATE GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES TO POST THE PAMPHLET IN A CONSPICUOUS LOCATION.
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. 958 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-400 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATING TO THE STATE HEALTH FACILITY LICENSURE ACT; TO PROVIDE THAT PATIENT BEDS MAY BE USED IN HALLWAYS, CORRIDORS, AND OTHER MEANS OF EGRESS DURING A JUSTIFIED EMERGENCY UPON THE DISCRETION OF THE ON-SITE EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN; TO REQUIRE THAT HOSPITALS REMOVE ALL PATIENT BEDS IN HALLWAYS, CORRIDORS, AND MEANS OF EGRESS WHEN THERE IS NO JUSTIFIED EMERGENCY; AND TO PROVIDE THAT HOSPITALS MUST MAINTAIN A CLEAR PATHWAY IN HALLWAYS, CORRIDORS, AND MEANS OF EGRESS IN A JUSTIFIED EMERGENCY, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER PATIENT BEDS ARE PRESENT.
Senator MARTIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
H. 3931 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey, Sessions, Brewer, Robbins, M.M. Smith, Burns, Haddon, Lowe, Rutherford, Schuessler and Guffey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 48-39-150, RELATING TO APPROVAL OR DENIAL OF PERMITS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH TIMELINES FOR THE DEPARTMENT TO TAKE ACTION ON A PERMIT APPLICATION.
Senator MARTIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
H. 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.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4567 (Word version) -- Reps. Chapman and C. Mitchell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME A PORTION OF THE EAST-WEST PARKWAY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 178 TO SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 81 IN THE CITY OF ANDERSON IN ANDERSON COUNTY "RICHARD A. SHIRLEY MEMORIAL PARKWAY" AND PLACE APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
S. 729 (Word version) -- Senator Graham: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 34 AND MCGEE TOWN ROAD IN LEE COUNTY "LEWIS W. BOONE MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 730 (Word version) -- Senator Graham: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF CHERAW ROAD AND PARK ROAD IN THE TOWN OF CASSATT IN KERSHAW COUNTY "THOMAS C. CLARK AND AUDREE A. CLARK INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
Senator BENNETT desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of the Resolution.
S. 1040 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson and Devine: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF INTERSTATE 77 FROM UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 1 TO INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 20 IN RICHLAND COUNTY "PRESIDENT BARACK H. OBAMA HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
Senators BENNETT, OTT and BRIGHT desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of the Resolution.
H. 4571 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF BLACK STREET AND DAVE LYLE BOULEVARD IN YORK COUNTY "LT. LARRY 'LV' VAUGHAN MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4982 (Word version) -- Reps. Crawford, Brittain, Guest, McGinnis, Hardee, Schuessler, Bailey and J.E. Johnson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 73 ALSO KNOWN AS "FUTURE 73" THAT WILL SERVE DILLON, HORRY, MARION, AND MARLBORO COUNTIES, THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA "PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS HIGHWAY CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
Senators BENNETT and OTT desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of the Resolution.
THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
At 3:28 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
HAVING DISPENSED WITH THE MOTION PERIOD, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.
S. 583 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Massey and Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-250, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION HOURS REQUIRED FOR LICENSEES OF THE BOARD OF FUNERAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO REVISE PHYSICAL ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION INSTRUCTION, AND TO DEFINE "PHYSICAL ATTENDANCE."
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator DAVIS explained the amendments.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.
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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (SEDU-4756.DB0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Sections 59-23-520 and 59-23-530 and inserting:
Section 59-23-520. A public school district may shall not permit any public school within the district to use any funds to maintain or operate any restroom or changing facility on its premises that is not in compliance with this article or facilitate any public school-authorized activity or event involving overnight lodging that is not in compliance with this article. A public school district that violates any portion of this article shall have twenty-five percent of the funds appropriated by the General Assembly that are used to support the school district's operations withheld until the district is determined to be in compliance The South Carolina State Board of Education shall direct the South Carolina Department of Education to withhold twenty-five percent of the funds appropriated by the General Assembly that are used to support the school district's operations for any district that violates any portion of this article until the South Carolina State Board of Education determines the school district is in compliance.
Section 59-23-530. A public institution of higher learning may shall not use any funds to maintain or operate any restroom or changing facility on its premises that is not in compliance with this article or facilitate any institution-authorized activity or event involving overnight lodging that is not in compliance with this article. A public institution of higher learning that violates any portion of this article, as determined by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, shall have twenty-five percent of the funds to be appropriated by the General Assembly that are used to support the institution's operations withheld until the institution is determined to be in compliance by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-540(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
(1) All public school buildings and all buildings in public institutions of higher learning must provide at least one an accommodation for a single-user restroom and changing facility.
(2) Multioccupancy public school or public institution of higher learning restrooms and changing facilities must be designated for use only by members of one sex at a time, on either a permanent basis or temporary or event-based basis. Any public school or public institution of higher learning restrooms and changing facilities that are designated for one sex must be used only by members of that sex. Any restroom or changing facility designated for one sex on a temporary or event-based basis, must be used only by members of that sex during the period of such designation. No person may shall enter a restroom or changing facility that is designated for one sex unless he or she is a member of that sex; and the public school or public institution of higher learning shall take reasonable steps to ensure that all restrooms and changing facilities provide its users with privacy from members of the opposite sex. The provisions in this item do not apply:
(a) to custodial or maintenance work when the restroom or changing facility is not being used or otherwise occupied by a member of the opposite sex;
(b) to provide coaching or athletic training during athletic events by coaching staff in changing rooms when no individual is in a state of undress;
(c) to a person or people rendering medical assistance; and
(d) during a natural disaster, emergency, or when use of the restroom or changing facility is necessary to prevent a serious threat to good order or student safety.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-540(B) and (C) and inserting:
(B) During any public school or public institution of higher learning-authorized activity or event where students share overnight lodging, no student may shall be required to share a sleeping quarter or multioccupancy restroom or changing facility with a member of the opposite sex, unless such persons are members of the same family, such as a parent, legal guardian, sibling, or grandparent.
(C) In any other public school or public institution of higher learning facility or setting where a person may be in a state of undress in the presence of others, school personnel shall provide separate, private areas designated for use by persons based on their sex, and no person may shall enter these private areas unless he or she is a member of the designated sex.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-550(A), (B), and (C) and inserting:
(A) An employee or studentindividual who, while accessing a restroom or changing facility designated for use by their sex, encounters a person of the opposite sex in that restroom or changing facility, has a private cause of action for declaratory and injunctive relief against the public school or public institution of higher learning that:
(1) provided granted the person permission to use a restroom or changing facility of the opposite sex; or
(2) failed to take reasonable steps to prohibit the person of the opposite sex from using the restroom or changing facility of the opposite sex.
(B) An employee or studentindividual required by the public school or public institution of higher learning to share sleeping quarters with a person of the opposite sex has a private cause of action for declaratory and injunctive relief against the offending public school or public institution of higher learning.
(C) All civil action brought pursuant to this section must be initiated within two years after the violation occurred. An employee or studentindividual aggrieved under this section who prevails in court may recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs from the offending public school or public institution of higher learning.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator STUBBS explained the committee amendment.
Senator TEDDER raised a Point of Order under Rule 26E that the Bill could receive a second reading as there was no fiscal impact statement on the Bill.
Senator MASSEY spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator MARTIN spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator OTT spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator CLIMER spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator MASSEY spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator STUBBS spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator TEDDER spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator BLACKMON spoke on the Point of Order.
The PRESIDENT overruled the Point of Order.
Senator STUBBS continued speaking on the committee amendment.
Senator OTT spoke on the committee amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4756.MW0010S), which was tabled:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by deleting Section 59-23-530 from the bill.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-540(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
(1) All public school buildings and all buildings in public institutions of higher learning must provide an accommodation for a single-user restroom and changing facility.
(2) Multioccupancy public school or public institution of higher learning restrooms and changing facilities must be designated for use only by members of one sex at a time, on either a permanent basis or temporary or event-based basis. Any public school or public institution of higher learning restrooms and changing facilities that are designated for one sex must be used only by members of that sex. Any restroom or changing facility designated for one sex on a temporary or event-based basis, must be used only by members of that sex during the period of such designation. No person shall enter a restroom or changing facility that is designated for one sex unless he or she is a member of that sex; and the public school or public institution of higher learning shall take reasonable steps to ensure that all restrooms and changing facilities provide its users with privacy from members of the opposite sex. The provisions in this item do not apply:
(a) to custodial or maintenance work when the restroom or changing facility is not being used or otherwise occupied by a member of the opposite sex;
(b) to provide coaching or athletic training during athletic events by coaching staff in changing rooms when no individual is in a state of undress;
(c)to a person or people rendering medical assistance; and
(d) during a natural disaster, emergency, or when use of the restroom or changing facility is necessary to prevent a serious threat to good order or student safety.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-540(B), (C), and (D) and inserting:
(B) During any public school or public institution of higher learning-authorized activity or event where students share overnight lodging, no student shall be required to share a sleeping quarter or multioccupancy restroom or changing facility with a member of the opposite sex, unless such persons are members of the same family, such as a parent, legal guardian, sibling, or grandparent.
(C) In any other public school or public institution of higher learning facility or setting where a person may be in a state of undress in the presence of others, school personnel shall provide separate, private areas designated for use by persons based on their sex, and no person shall enter these private areas unless he or she is a member of the designated sex.
(D) A public institution of higher learning that offers housing for student residents must provide students the option to be housed only with persons of the same sex.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-550(A), (B), and (C) and inserting:
(A) An individual who, while accessing a restroom or changing facility designated for use by their sex, encounters a person of the opposite sex in that restroom or changing facility, has a private cause of action for declaratory and injunctive relief against the public school or public institution of higher learning that:
(1) granted the person permission to use a restroom or changing facility of the opposite sex; or
(2) failed to take reasonable steps to prohibit the person of the opposite sex from using the restroom or changing facility of the opposite sex.
(B) An individual required by the public school or public institution of higher learning to share sleeping quarters with a person of the opposite sex has a private cause of action for declaratory and injunctive relief against the offending public school or public institution of higher learning.
(C) All civil action brought pursuant to this section must be initiated within two years after the violation occurred. An individual aggrieved under this section who prevails in court may recover reasonable attorney fees and costs from the offending public school or public institution of higher learning.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-560(A), (B), and (C) and inserting:
(A) Nothing in this article may be construed to prohibit public schools or public institutions of higher learning from adopting policies necessary to accommodate disabled persons protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, elderly persons requiring aid, or young children in need of physical assistance when using restrooms or changing facilities.
(B) Nothing in this article may be construed to prohibit public schools or public institutions of higher learning from establishing single-occupancy restrooms, changing facilities, or sleeping quarters, or family restrooms, changing facilities, or sleeping quarters.
(C) Nothing in this article may be construed to prohibit public schools or public institutions of higher learning from redesignating a multioccupancy restroom, changing facility, or sleeping quarters designated for exclusive use by one sex to a designation for exclusive use by the opposite sex, on either a permanent basis or temporary or event-based basis.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
Senator MASSEY spoke on the amendment.
Senator CASH spoke on the amendment.
Senator MASSEY moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The amendment was laid on the table.
Senator DEVINE proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4756.MW0014S), which was not adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-550(B) and (C) and inserting:
(B) Prior to filing a civil action, a plaintiff must provide written notice to the public school or public institution of higher learning and allow thirty days to cure the alleged violation.
(B) (C) An individual required by the public school or public institution of higher learning to share sleeping quarters with a person of the opposite sex has a private cause of action for declaratory and injunctive relief against the offending public school or public institution of higher learning.
(C) (D) All civil action brought pursuant to this section must be initiated within two years after the violation occurred. An individual aggrieved under this section who prevails in court may recover reasonable attorney fees and costs from the offending public school or public institution of higher learning.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DEVINE explained the amendment.
Senator MASSEY spoke on the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
Having failed to receive the necessary vote, the amendment failed.
Senator DEVINE proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4756.MW0020S), which was not adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 3, by striking Section and inserting:
SECTION 3. This act takes effect upon approval by the GovernorDecember 31, 2026.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DEVINE explained the amendment.
Senator MASSEY spoke on the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
Having failed to receive the necessary vote, the amendment failed.
Senators CASH, CLIMER, STUBBS, TEDDER and ZELL proposed the following amendment (SEDU-4756.DB0008S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, Section 59-23-510, by adding a subsection to read:
(8) "Accommodation" means:
(a) a single-user restroom or changing facility;
(b) temporary exclusive use of a multi-occupancy restroom or changing facility; or
(c) a single-user portable restroom or changing facility.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-540(A)(1) and inserting:
(1) All public schools buildings and all buildings inand public institutions of higher learning must provide an accommodation for a single-user restroom and changing facility or an accommodation. The single-user restroom and changing facility in this section need not be two separate accommodations.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 59-23-550(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
(1) granted the person permission to use a restroom or changing facility of the opposite sex in violation of this article; or
(2) failed to take reasonable steps which may include, but is not limited to, clear and recognizable signage designating the appropriate sex for the restroom or changing facility to prohibit the person of the opposite sex from using the restroom or changing facility of the opposite sex.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator CASH explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GROOMS spoke on the Bill.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator GROOMS, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
The question then was second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Devine Elliott Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Turner Verdin Walker Williams Zell
Sutton Tedder
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
Senator YOUNG desired to be recorded as voting in favor of the second reading of the Bill.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Harriet A. Bonds, 103 Silverhill Road, Walterboro, SC 29488-3555
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Elbert O. Duffie III, 1075 Dallas Lane, Walterboro, SC 29488-8190
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Sophia T. Henderson, 1145 Oakman Branch Road, Walterboro, SC 29488-7877
Reappointment, Colleton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Colleton County:
Hon. Roosevelt LaShon Jenkins, 1328 Adnah Church Road, Islandton, SC 29929-5220
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
At 6:33 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.
This web page was last updated on Monday, April 6, 2026 at 10:03 A.M.