NO. 45
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:
Ecclesiastes 3:11a
Ecclesiastes, writing about God's blessings, reminds us that: "He has made everything beautiful in its time."
Let us pray, my friends: O glorious God, here at this time of the year it is virtually impossible not to notice the beauty and wonder of Springtime. For even those who might happen not to be avid gardeners or such, everyone cannot help but be somehow caught up in viewing nature's true glories at every turn -- azaleas, dogwoods, yellow jasmine, tulips, daffodils -- the lists of what is in almost full bloom seem to be endless. And the beauty of it all truly does take one's breath away. Thanks to God Almighty we are surrounded by nature at her best. And likely the best way for this Senate and all who serve here to respond to such glorious gifts from God is to strive to use our own talents and powers to further bless the good people of South Carolina. May it ever be so, dear Lord. In Your loving name we pray. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kennedy Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
Senators JACKSON and WALKER recorded their presence subsequent to the Call of the Senate.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, in accordance with the provisions of Rule 35, the Privilege of the Chamber, to that area behind the rail, was extended to Regimental Commander David Ropp to acknowledge his achievement in being the highest-ranking student at The Citadel and to wish him continued success and happiness in all future endeavors.
The following appointment was transmitted by the Election Commission:
Initial Appointment, State Election Commission,
Mr. Joseph C. Belangia, 218 Leake Street, Mauldin, SC 29662
Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
The following appointment was transmitted by The Speaker of the House of Representatives:
Initial Appointment, State Ethics Commission, with the term to commence April 1, 2025, and to expire April 1, 2030
Kristian Cross, 307 N. Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29206 VICE AJ Holloway
Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Reappointment, Board of Trustees for the Veterans' Trust Fund of South Carolina, with the term to commence May 19, 2025, and to expire May 19, 2029
At-Large:
Mr. Stephen L. Jones, 6815 Back Bay Drive, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
Referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
Initial Appointment, Board of Trustees for the Veterans' Trust Fund of South Carolina, with the term to commence May 19, 2025, and to expire May 19, 2027
County Veterans' Affairs Officer:
Ms. Albertha Woodard, Post Office Box 417, Winnsboro, SC 29180 VICE Elouise G. J. Davis
Referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
Reappointment, Donate Life South Carolina, with the term to commence April 1, 2024, and to expire April 1, 2028
Lowcountry:
Dr. Michael F. Cuenin, 1513 Appling Drive, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464-4689
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Initial Appointment, Donate Life South Carolina, with the term to commence April 1, 2024, and to expire April 1, 2028
At-Large:
Ms. Kimberly D. Young, 406 Fairview Lake Way, Simpsonville, SC 29680 VICE Curtis A. Nelson
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District Board of Trustees, with the term to commence July 1, 2026, and to expire July 1, 2029
SC School Board Association:
Mr. S. Craig Plank, 7401 Parklane Road, Columbia, SC 29223
Referred to the Committee on Education.
Reappointment, South Carolina Real Estate Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
Public:
Mr. Thomas F. Dugas, 120 Woodland Way, Greenville, SC 29601
Referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Nursing, with the term to commence December 31, 2026, and to expire December 31, 2030
2nd Congressional District:
Mrs. Frances C. Pagett, 6143 Marthas Glen Road, Columbia, SC 29209-1312
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence March 15, 2023, and to expire March 15, 2030
6th Congressional District:
Ms. Lori Anderson Bell, Post Office Box 2386, Walterboro, SC 29488
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence May 15, 2021, and to expire May 15, 2028
4th Congressional District:
Dr. Roxzanne B. Breland, 11 Weatherby Court, Greenville, SC 29615
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Initial Appointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence May 15, 2024, and to expire May 15, 2031
3rd Congressional District:
Ms. Sheila Cobb Ford, 1011 Latimer Road, Anderson, SC 29625 VICE Timothy W. Evatt
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence June 30, 2022, and to expire June 30, 2029
2nd Congressional District:
Ms. Rhonda J. Presha, 92 Westridge Road, Elgin, SC 29045
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, Abbeville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Abbeville County:
Hon. Erin B. Kollmann, 200 Dundas Road, Abbeville, SC 29620
Initial Appointment, Anderson County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Anderson County:
Mr. Eugene Gregg Jameson, 922 Blue Ridge Avenue, Belton, SC 29627 VICE Hon. Sherry Mattison
Reappointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Chesterfield County:
Hon. John A. Davis, 130 Rhyne Street, Chesterfield, SC 29709
Initial Appointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Chesterfield County:
Mr. Lanny R. Rayfield, Jr., 634 Pinewood Drive, Cheraw, SC 29520 VICE Kimberly B. Gaskins (resigned)
Reappointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Chesterfield County:
Mr. Lanny R. Rayfield, Jr., 634 Pinewood Drive, Cheraw, SC 29520
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Matthew Bruce Hubbard, 9 Montford Court, Travelers Rest, SC 29690
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Clare Thompson Sims, 103 Beechwood Court, Mauldin, SC 29662
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Greenville County:
Hon. Michael Don Stokes, 408 Pearle Brook Lane, Taylors, SC 29687
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Michael Don Stokes, 408 Pearle Brook Lane, Taylors, SC 29687
Reappointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Hon. Bryan Keith Griffin, P.O. Box 1428, Sumter, SC 29151
Reappointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sumter County:
Hon. Roger Richardson, 1760 Hideaway Drive, Sumter, SC 29154
The following were received:
Document No. 5412
Agency: University of South Carolina
Chapter: 119
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 56-21-10 et seq.
SUBJECT: Parking and Transportation Services
Received by President of the Senate January 13, 2026
Referred to Committee on Education
Legislative Review Expiration May 3, 2026
Withdrawn and Resubmitted March 31, 2026
Document No. 5433
Agency: Clemson University
Chapter: 27
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 56-21-10, 59-119-150, and 59-119-320
SUBJECT: Parking and Traffic Regulations - Golf Carts
Received by President of the Senate January 13, 2026
Referred to Education Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 3, 2026
Withdrawn and Resubmitted April 1, 2026
Senator GRAHAM introduced Dr. Stephanie Scott of Columbia, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, at 2:18 P.M., Senator KIMBRELL was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator CLIMER, at 5:03 P.M., Senator GOLDFINCH was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator CLIMER, at 5:03 P.M., Senator GAMBRELL was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator LEBER, at 5:11 P.M., Senator REICHENBACH was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
Senator REICHENBACH rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
Senator CAMPSEN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 812 (Word version) Sen. Walker
S. 863 (Word version) Sen. Matthews
S. 893 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 933 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 1045 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 1051 (Word version) Sens. Hutto and Campsen
S. 1052 (Word version) Sen. Davis
S. 888 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen and Ott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF VOLUNTARY CONSERVATION EASEMENTS AND HONOR THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF SPORTSMEN'S CAUCUSES FOR PROTECTING WILDLIFE HABITATS AND PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS.
Senator CAMPSEN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Senate Resolution from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
The Senate Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
S. 1063 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS SINCERE GRATITUDE TO THE PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS AND SPONSORS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RESTAURANT AND LODGING ASSOCIATION'S ANNUAL HOSPITALITY DAY LEGISLATIVE LUNCHEON AND TO RECOGNIZE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2026, AS "HOSPITALITY DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
Senator DAVIS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
Senator DAVIS 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 DAVIS, the Resolution was adopted and ordered sent to the House.
S. 1038 (Word version) -- Senator Massey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-340 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE FIRST DAY OF MARCH OF EACH YEAR AS "RELIGIOUS LIBERTY DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
Senator YOUNG asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 5199 (Word version) -- Rep. Govan: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 321 FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH IW HUTTO ROAD TO THE INTERSECTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 3 IN THE TOWN OF SWANSEA IN LEXINGTON COUNTY "WILBER LEE JEFFCOAT MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.
The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 5284 (Word version) -- Rep. Gagnon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 30-5-10, RELATING TO THE PERFORMANCE OF THE DUTIES OF A REGISTER OF DEEDS, SO AS TO INCLUDE ABBEVILLE COUNTY AMONG THE COUNTIES EXEMPT FROM THE REQUIREMENT THAT THESE DUTIES BE PERFORMED BY THE CLERK OF COURT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 30-5-12, RELATING TO COUNTIES WHERE THE COUNTY GOVERNING BODY APPOINTS THE REGISTER OF DEEDS, SO AS TO INCLUDE ABBEVILLE COUNTY.
Senator GAMBRELL 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 ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
The following were introduced:
S. 1089 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR HAMM HARDWARE OF PROSPERITY UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY, TO COMMEND THE HAMM FAMILY FOR A CENTURY OF SERVICE, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY, AND TO EXTEND BEST WISHES FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 1090 (Word version) -- Senator Sabb: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE FIVE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SAN MIGUEL DE GUALDAPE REVOLT AND TO HONOR THE LEGACY OF THOSE WHO FIRST FOUGHT FOR FREEDOM.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1091 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE CONGREGATION OF BETHLEHEM BAPTIST CHURCH, COLLEGE PLACE UPON THE CELEBRATION OF ITS ONE HUNDRED THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF MINISTRY AND SERVICE IN ITS COMMUNITY.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1092 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR THE CAMBRIDGE ACADEMY VOLLEYBALL TEAM AND COACHES FOR A STELLAR SEASON AND TO APPLAUD THEM FOR WINNING THE 2025 SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION CLASS 1A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1093 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CELEBRATE THE GREENWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM ON WINNING THE 2026 SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION 3A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE AND TO CONGRATULATE THE PLAYERS AND COACHES ON THEIR FIRST STATE CROWN.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1094 (Word version) -- Senators Garrett, Corbin, Kennedy and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "FIRST AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 1-30-160 SO AS TO DEFINE A MEDIA RELIABILITY AND BIAS MONITOR, PROHIBIT STATE CONTRACTS WITH MEDIA RELIABILITY AND BIAS MONITORS, REQUIRE WRITTEN CERTIFICATIONS FROM COMPANIES SUBMITTING BIDS THAT STATE PURCHASING CONTRACTS ARE IN COMPLIANCE, AND CLARIFY THE APPLICABILITY OF THE ACT TO STATE CONTRACTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 1095 (Word version) -- Senators Cash, Verdin, Fernandez, Kennedy, Garrett and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "UNBORN CHILD PROTECTION ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-610, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING ABORTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS CONCERNING ABORTIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-611; TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO KNOWINGLY AND INTENTIONALLY USE OR EMPLOY ANY INSTRUMENT, DEVICE, MEANS, OR PROCEDURE UPON A PREGNANT WOMAN WITH THE SPECIFIC INTENT OF CAUSING AN ABORTION, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-612, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO KNOWINGLY AND INTENTIONALLY ADMINISTER TO, PRESCRIBE FOR, DELIVER TO, PROVIDE TO, OR SELL AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG TO A PREGNANT WOMAN WITH THE INTENT TO CAUSE AN UNLAWFUL ABORTION, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A WOMAN TO SELF-INDUCE AN ABORTION USING AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-613, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO KNOWINGLY AND INTENTIONALLY ENGAGE IN THE USE OF AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG ON A PREGNANT WOMAN, WITHOUT HER KNOWLEDGE OR CONSENT, WITH THE INTENT TO CAUSE AN ABORTION, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-614, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO POSSESS, MANUFACTURE, MAIL, DISTRIBUTE, TRANSPORT, DELIVER, OR PROVIDE AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG; OR AID OR ABET THE PERFORMANCE, INDUCTION, OR ATTEMPTED ABORTION, OR THE MANUFACTURE, MAILING, DISTRIBUTION, TRANSPORTATION, DELIVERY, OR PROVISION OF AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO SOLICIT OR PROVIDE FUNDING ASSISTANCE TO UNLAWFULLY DELIVER, DISPENSES, DISTRIBUTE, OR PROVIDE AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG TOA PREGNANT WOMAN, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-615, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO KNOWINGLY OR INTENTIONALLY USE FORCE, OR THE THREAT OF FORCE, TO INJURE OR INTIMIDATE A PREGNANT WOMAN FOR THE PURPOSE OF COERCING AN ABORTION; OR TO RECRUIT, HARBOR, OR TRANSPORT AN UNEMANCIPATED PREGNANT MINOR WHO RESIDES IN THIS STATE TO ANOTHER STATE TO PROCURE AN ABORTION OR TO OBTAIN AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF THE PREGNANT MINOR'S PARENTS OR LEGAL GUARDIAN, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-616, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MEDICAL TREATMENT PROVIDED TO A PREGNANT WOMAN BY A PHYSICIAN OR OTHER LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL THAT RESULTS IN THE ACCIDENTAL DEATH OR UNINTENTIONAL INJURY TO AN UNBORN CHILD IS NOT A VIOLATION OF SECTION 44-41-611 THROUGH 44-41-615; BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-617, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFENSES FOR A PREGNANT WOMAN ACCUSED OF HAVING AN ABORTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-620, RELATING TO A PREGNANT WOMAN PROVIDING VOLUNTARY AND INFORMED WRITTEN CONSENT FOR AN ABORTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CONSENT MAY ONLY BE GIVEN FOR LEGAL ABORTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-630, RELATING TO OBSTETRIC ULTRASOUNDS PRIOR TO ABORTIONS, DISPLAYING ULTRASOUND IMAGES, AND RECORDING WRITTEN MEDICAL DESCRIPTION OF IMAGES OF FETAL HEARTBEAT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THOSE REQUIREMENTS ONLY APPLY TO LEGAL ABORTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-640, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS TO THE PROHIBITION ON ABORTIONS FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES OR TO PREVENT THE DEATH OF THE PREGNANT WOMAN, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL, CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-650, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS TO THE PROHIBITION ON ABORTION FOR RAPE AND INCEST, SO AS TO DELETE THE EXCEPTIONS FOR RAPE AND INCEST, AND TO PROVIDE FOR CIVIL ACTIONS FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE ARTICLE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-660, RELATING TO THE EXCEPTION TO THE PROHIBITION ON ABORTION FOR FATAL FETAL ANOMALY, SO AS TO DELETE THE EXCEPTION FOR FATAL FETAL ANOMALY AND TO PROVIDE FOR CRIMINAL PROSECUTIONS FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE ARTICLE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-670, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION OF CRIMINAL PROSECUTION OF PREGNANT WOMEN , SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ACTIVITIES THAT DO NOT GIVE RISE TO CIVIL OR CRIMINAL LIABILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-680, RELATING TO CIVIL ACTIONS FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE ARTICLE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A CAUSE OF ACTION FOR PEOPLE WHO ENGAGE IN A PATTERN OF PROHIBITED ABORTION ACTIVITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-690, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT BY PHYSICIANS OR ANY OTHER PROFESSIONALLY LICENSED PERSON, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH A PHYSICIAN OR ANY OTHER PROFESSIONALLY LICENSED PERSON MAY HAVE THEIR LICENSE SUSPENDED; BY ADDING SECTION 44-6-75 SO AS TO EXCLUDE ABORTION PROVIDERS AND AFFILIATED PHYSICIANS OR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL PRACTICES FROM MEDICAID FAMILY PLANNING SERVICES; BY ADDING SECTION 15-51-15 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM FOR A WOMAN UPON WHOM AN UNLAWFUL ABORTION IS PERFORMED OR INDUCED; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-32-30, RELATING TO LOCAL SCHOOL BOARDS IMPLEMENTING COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAMS SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SPECIFIC INSTRUCTION ON HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-37, RELATING TO THE DISCLOSURE OF CONSENT REQUIREMENTS WHEN COUNSELING OR DISCUSSING ABORTION WITH A MINOR, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO JUDICIAL BYPASS PROCEDURES FOR OBTAINING AN ABORTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-60, RELATING TO REPORTING ABORTIONS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO TIMELY FILE A REPORT; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-90, RELATING TO STATE FUNDING OF ABORTIONS THROUGH THE STATE HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO EXCEPTIONS TO THE PROHIBITION ON ABORTION DELETED PURSUANT TO THIS ACT; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-250, RELATING TO SCHEDULE IV DRUGS SO AS TO ADD MIFEPRISTONE AND MISOPROSTOL TO SCHEDULE IV; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-238, RELATING TO ABORTION COVERAGE PROHIBITIONS IN HEALTH INSURANCE, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO ALLOWABLE COVERAGE FOR EXCEPTIONS TO THE ABORTION PROHIBITION DELETED BY THIS ACT; TO DIRECT THE BOARD OF PHARMACY TO NOTIFY PHARMACISTS IN THIS STATE ABOUT THE PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THIS ACT; TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO NOTIFY HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONERS AND PROVIDERS IN THIS STATE ABOUT THE PROVISIONS IN THIS ACT; AND BY REPEALING SECTIONS 44-41-32, 44-41-33, 44-41-34, AND 14-8-200(B)(7).
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Senator CASH spoke on the Bill.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
S. 1096 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA, RELATING TO PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5412, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.
S. 1097 (Word version) -- Senator Walker: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE VICTORY WORKS PROGRAM AT HEYWARD CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER FOR ITS OUTSTANDING COMMITMENT TO PREPARING TRANSITION-AGE STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES FOR EMPLOYMENT, INDEPENDENT LIVING, AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, AND TO HONOR THE PROGRAM FOR ITS DEDICATION TO SUPPORTING AND RECOGNIZING VETERANS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1098 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR TIM TODD FOR WINNING THE SOUTH CAROLINA PARKS, RECREATION, AND TOURISM'S FRED BRINKMAN AWARD AND TO CELEBRATE HIS OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO TOURISM IN THE STATE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1099 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, RELATING TO PARKING AND TRAFFIC REGULATIONS - GOLF CARTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5433, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.
S. 1100 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO DESIGNATE ARTICLE 11, CHAPTER 3, TITLE 47 AS "TEASING, MALTREATING, AND INJURING POLICE DOGS OR HORSES PROHIBITED"; BY AMENDING SECTION 47-3-610, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL TO TAUNT, TORMENT, TEASE, BEAT, STRIKE, OR ADMINISTER DESENSITIZING DRUG TO POLICE DOG OR HORSE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION IS A MISDEMEANOR AND, UPON CONVICTION, A PERSON MUST BE FINED NOT LESS THAN TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS NOR MORE THAN FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS OR IMPRISONED NOT LESS THAN THIRTY DAYS NOR MORE THAN FIVE YEARS OR BOTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 47-3-620, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL TO TORTURE, MUTILATE, INJURE, DISABLE, POISON, OR KILL POLICE DOG OR HORSE, SO AS TO INCLUDE SHOOTING INTO A VEHICLE OR TRAILER WHILE A DOG OR HORSE IS INSIDE, AND SHOOTING AND HITTING A POLICE DOG OR HORSE WHILE RUNNING IN PURSUIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A VIOLATION IS A FELONY AND, UPON CONVICTION, THE PENALTY IS NOT LESS THAN TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS NOR MORE THAN TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS AND IMPRISONMENT FOR NOT LESS THAN TWO YEARS NOR MORE THAN TEN YEARS, AND TO REQUIRE RESTITUTION TO THE LAW ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT OR AGENCY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 47-3-630, RELATING TO PENALTIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH NOTHING IN THIS SECTION DENIES A RIGHT TO ASSERT A LEGAL DEFENSE OF SELF-DEFENSE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 1101 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-447 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO KNOWINGLY AND INTENTIONALLY POSSESS, SELL, DISTRIBUTE, MANUFACTURE, OR PURCHASE A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE IN A DRUG-FREE HOMELESS ZONE, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE SECTION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 1102 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-48-10 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR THE CHAPTER; BY ADDING SECTION 27-48-20 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY, MUNICIPALITY, OR OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION MAY DESIGNATE PROPERTY TO BE USED FOR NO LONGER THAN ONE YEAR FOR THE PURPOSES OF PUBLIC CAMPING OR SLEEPING FOR PEOPLE EXPERIENCING UNSHELTERED HOMELESSNESS; BY ADDING SECTION 27-48-30 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RESIDENT OF THE COUNTY, MUNICIPALITY, POLITICAL SUBDIVISION, OR AN OWNER OF A BUSINESS LOCATED IN THE COUNTY, MUNICIPALITY, OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION, OR THE ATTORNEY GENERAL MAY BRING A CIVIL ACTION IN ANY COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION TO ENFORCE THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 27-48-20.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 1103 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "STOP HARM FROM ADDICTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA (SHASM) ACT"; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO REQUIRE COVERED SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO USE REASONABLE MEANS TO ESTIMATE THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO VERIFY THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO CREATE DEFAULT ACCOUNT SETTINGS FOR CERTAIN USERS, AND TO CREATE CERTAIN PARENTAL CONSENTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
H. 3013 (Word version) -- Reps. Robbins, Pope, Pedalino, McCravy, W. Newton, C. Mitchell, Govan, Erickson, Bradley and Gibson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-820, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS TO SERVE AS A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN PRIVATE FAMILY COURT CASES, SO AS TO REQUIRE A CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK TO SERVE AS A GUARDIAN AD LITEM.
lc-0082vr25.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 3873 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, Crawford, Bernstein, Calhoon, Teeple and Bowers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-3-35, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF FINGERPRINT AND DNA IDENTIFICATION KITS THROUGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SO AS TO MAKE THE DISTRIBUTION MANDATORY INSTEAD OF UPON REQUEST.
lc-0259wab25.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 4292 (Word version) -- Reps. Martin, Terribile, M. M. Smith, Robbins, Cox, Brewer, Holman, Duncan, Sanders, Bailey, Lawson, Pope, Ligon, Davis, W. Newton, Guffey, Gilreath, Long, Wooten, Teeple, Montgomery, C. Mitchell and Yow: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "ROADWAY PROTECTION AND SAFETY ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-3910 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, TO PROVIDE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO PARTICIPATE IN, ORGANIZE, OR BE A SPECTATOR, AIDER, OR ABETTOR OF A STREET TAKEOVER, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.
lc-0216cm25.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 4591 (Word version) -- Reps. Guffey, Pope, Oremus, Martin, Schuessler, Sessions, T. Moore, Chapman, Lawson, Brewer, Ford, Pedalino, Ligon, Robbins, Terribile, Huff, Govan, Wickensimer, Lastinger, W. Newton, Hewitt, Calhoon and Gibson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "STOP HARM FROM ADDICTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA (SHASM) ACT"; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO REQUIRE COVERED SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO USE REASONABLE MEANS TO ESTIMATE THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO VERIFY THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO CREATE DEFAULT ACCOUNT SETTINGS FOR CERTAIN USERS, AND TO CREATE CERTAIN PARENTAL CONSENTS.
lc-0456sa26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
H. 4610 (Word version) -- Reps. J. Moore, Oremus, M. M. Smith, Davis, Robbins, Pope, Bustos, Landing, Teeple, Hartnett, Sessions, B. Newton, Wickensimer, Wetmore, Bradley, Reese, Cox, Stavrinakis, Gatch, J. L. Johnson, Rutherford, Hosey, Gilliard, Grant, Hart, Crawford, Guest, McGinnis, Hardee, Holman, Bamberg, Willis, Burns, Chumley, Bowers and Guffey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA STATE AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE SYMBOL ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-687 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE "I LOVE YOU" (ILY) HAND GESTURE AS THE OFFICIAL AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE SYMBOL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 29 TO CHAPTER 1, TITLE 1 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE AND CERTAIN STATE AGENCIES SHALL INCORPORATE THE "I LOVE YOU" GESTURE AS APPROPRIATE.
lc-0386sa26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
H. 4761 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, Taylor, Bradley, Brewer, Chapman, Crawford, Davis, Duncan, Forrest, Gatch, Gilliam, Guest, Haddon, Hardee, Hartnett, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, J. E. Johnson, Lawson, Long, Lowe, McCravy, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, Oremus, W. Newton, Pedalino, Pope, Robbins, Sanders, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Vaughan, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Willis, Yow, Magnuson, Terribile, Teeple, Pace, Cromer, Edgerton, D. Mitchell, Gilreath, Huff, Frank, White and Kilmartin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE ANNUAL EVALUATIONS OF FACULTY AT PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE, TO REQUIRE SCHOOLS ADOPT RELATED POLICIES, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POLICIES, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED PROCEDURES AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-17 SO AS TO REQUIRE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING SHALL ESTABLISH POST-TENURE REVIEW PROCESSES FOR TENURED FACULTY MEMBERS, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THESE PROCESSES, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED PROCEDURES AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.
lc-0534wab26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 4804 (Word version) -- Reps. T. Moore, Pope, White, Cromer, Edgerton, Burns, Beach, Morgan, Terribile, Pace, Kilmartin, Gilreath, Magnuson, Frank, McCravy, Hartz, D. Mitchell, Haddon, Willis, Vaughan, Pedalino, Chumley, Govan, Wickensimer, Lastinger, C. Mitchell, Yow, Guffey, Bowers, Ligon, Chapman, B. Newton, W. Newton, Forrest, Oremus and Gibson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MINIMUM PENALTY TO FIVE YEARS' IMPRISONMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MINIMUM PENALTY TO THREE YEARS' IMPRISONMENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES BASED ON THE NUMBER OF IMAGES POSSESSED, INCLUDING A PENALTY OF UP TO TEN YEARS IF THERE ARE ONE TO TWENTY-FIVE IMAGES, ONE TO TEN YEARS IF THERE ARE TWENTY-SIX TO TWO HUNDRED FIFTY IMAGES, AND A PENALTY OF TWO TO TEN YEARS IF THERE ARE MORE THAN TWO HUNDRED FIFTY IMAGES; AND TO ESTABLISH THAT A PERSON WHO IS REQUIRED TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER AND VIOLATES THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION, UPON CONVICTION, MUST SERVE A MINIMUM OF FIVE YEARS
lc-0198ahb26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 5075 (Word version) -- Reps. T. Moore, B. Newton, Sanders, M. M. Smith, Montgomery, Bowers, Wickensimer, Guest and C. Mitchell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PERSONAL PRIVACY PROTECTION ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 2, TITLE 30, SO AS TO PROHIBIT PUBLIC BODIES FROM COLLECTING OR DISCLOSING CERTAIN PERSONAL INFORMATION ABOUT DONORS, MEMBERS, AND SUPPORTERS OF NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, TO PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS, AND TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
lc-0542wab26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 5164 (Word version) -- Reps. Hewitt, Bannister, G. M. Smith and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-255 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FIRE AND BUILDING CODE EXCEPTIONS FOR PLACEMENT OF HOSPITAL BEDS IN HALLWAYS, CORRIDORS, OR OTHER MEANS OF EGRESS DURING JUSTIFIED EMERGENCIES.
lc-0430vr26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
H. 5456 (Word version) -- Reps. Luck, Hayes, 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, 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, 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 DESIGNATE SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 2026, AS "MARIAN WRIGHT EDELMAN DAY," ENCOURAGING RESIDENTS, EDUCATORS, STUDENTS, AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS TO CELEBRATE HER LEGACY THROUGH ACTS OF SERVICE, THROUGH WELLNESS AND MINDFULNESS PRACTICES, AND THROUGH EFFORTS THAT ADVANCE OPPORTUNITY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL CHILDREN.
lc-0402hdb-gm26.docx
The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
H. 5470 (Word version) -- Reps. Whitmire, King, McGinnis and Rose: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026, IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE STATE OF THE JUDICIARY ADDRESS TO BE DELIVERED BY THE CHIEF JUSTICE IN JOINT ASSEMBLY IN THE HALL OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, AS THE TIME FOR THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO MEET IN JOINT ASSEMBLY FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING ONE MEMBER TO THE BOARD OF VISITORS FOR THE CITADEL, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE AT-LARGE MEMBER THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2029; FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF COASTAL CAROLINA UNIVERSITY TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, SEAT 1, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE THIRD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, SEAT 3, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FOURTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, SEAT 4, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2025, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2029, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIFTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, SEAT 5, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE SEVENTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, SEAT 7, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 8, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2025, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2029, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 9, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 10, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2025, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2029, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 11, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 12, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2025, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2029, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 13, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 14, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2025, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2029, AND TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 15, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027; FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF LANDER UNIVERSITY, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIFTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, SEAT 5, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2024, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 12, FOR A TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 15, FOR A TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026; FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE SECOND CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, LAY MEMBER, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2024, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 12, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2024, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT FOR A TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2024, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028, TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE TWELFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT FOR A TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026, AND TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2024, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WINTHROP UNIVERSITY TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE SEVENTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, SEAT 7, THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2024, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A NEW TERM THAT EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2030, AND TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE AT-LARGE SEAT 10, FOR A TERM THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027; AND FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING THREE AT-LARGE MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE WIL LOU GRAY OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL THAT EXPIRED JUNE 30, 2023, FOR THE REMAINDER OF NEW TERMS THAT WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027.
lc-0695wab-wab26.docx
On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the Concurrent Resolution was introduced and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.
H. 5481 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, Bradley, Terribile, Kilmartin, Lastinger, Gilreath, Bowers, Alexander, Rivers, Hartnett, Garvin, Vaughan, Frank, Grant, Huff, D. Mitchell and McGinnis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE SOUTH CAROLINA'S 2025-2026 DISTRICT TEACHERS OF THE YEAR UPON BEING SELECTED TO REPRESENT THEIR RESPECTIVE SCHOOL DISTRICTS, TO EXPRESS APPRECIATION FOR THEIR DEDICATED SERVICE TO CHILDREN, AND TO WISH THEM CONTINUED SUCCESS IN THE FUTURE.
lc-0717wab-eb26.docx
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3872 (Word version) -- Reps. B.J. Cox, Bauer and Caskey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "HUNTING HERITAGE PROTECTION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 50-1-320 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES TO ADOPT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES TO ENSURE THAT THERE IS NO NET LOSS OF DEPARTMENT-MANAGED LAND FOR HUNTING AND FISHING.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., April 1, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3856 (Word version) -- Rep. Erickson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-80, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR LICENSES OR PERMITS, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "BLOOD TYPE" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "INFORMATION"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-3350, RELATING TO ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS AND VETERAN DESIGNATIONS ON DRIVERS' LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION THAT MUST BE SUBMITTED ON APPLICATIONS FOR A PERSON'S BLOOD TYPE TO APPEAR ON A SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD, AND TO PROVIDE A CAUSE OF ACTION BASED ON INACCURATE INFORMATION CONTAINED ON IDENTIFICATION CARDS OR DRIVERS' RECORDS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "RENTAL TRAILER"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-785, RELATING TO ISSUANCE OF PERMANENT LICENSE PLATES TO CERTAIN OWNERS OF TRAILERS AND SEMITRAILERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF LICENSE PLATES TO OWNERS OF RENTAL TRAILERS, AND MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-2320, RELATING TO DEALER AND WHOLESALER LICENSE PLATES, SO AS TO REVISE THE NUMBER OF MOTOR VEHICLE SALES THAT MUST BE MADE BEFORE DEALER PLATES MAY BE ISSUED; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-15-560, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR WHOLESALE MOTOR VEHICLE AUCTION LICENSES AND FEES, SO AS TO REVISE EXPIRATION DATES FOR THE LICENSES AND INCREASE THE LICENSE FEES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-19-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "BUS"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-23-85, RELATING TO DRIVER INSTRUCTOR PERMITS, SO AS TO REVISE THE EXPIRATION DATES FOR THE PERMITS AND PROVIDE A SCHEDULE OF FEES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-37-30, RELATING TO ESTABLISHMENT OF THE POINTS SYSTEM FOR EVALUATING PERFORMANCE RECORDS OF DEALERS, SO AS TO ELIMINATE CERTAIN CONDUCT THAT RESULTS IN POINT VIOLATIONS AND ADD ADDITIONAL CONDUCT THAT RESULTS IN POINT VIOLATIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-37-70, RELATING TO SUSPENSIONS OF LICENSES, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "CERTIFIED" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "NORMAL."
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., April 1, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3931 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey, Sessions, Brewer, Robbins, M.M. Smith, Burns, Haddon, Lowe, 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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., April 1, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has sustained the veto by the Governor on R.118, H. 5182 by a vote of 0 to 113:
(R118, H5182 (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.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
At 1:42 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.
S. 1068 (Word version) -- Senator Walker: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND COMMEND ALFREDA WALTERS TINDAL FOR MORE THAN FOUR DECADES OF EXEMPLARY PUBLIC SERVICE.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
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.
On motion of Senator CORBIN.
Senator BRIGHT desired to be recorded as voting against the second reading of this Bill on Tuesday, March 31 and third reading of the Bill today.
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.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS.
S. 1051 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews, Hutto and Campsen: 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.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS.
S. 1052 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews and Davis: 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.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS.
S. 1070 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE HAMPTON COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE SHALL RECEIVE COMPENSATION FOR EACH MEETING THE MEMBERS ATTEND, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PAYMENTS SHALL NOT OCCUR MORE THAN EIGHTEEN TIMES EACH FISCAL YEAR.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, the Bill was committed to the Local Delegation.
S. 1071 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews, Hutto and Campsen: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE COLLETON COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE SHALL RECEIVE COMPENSATION FOR EACH MEETING THE MEMBERS ATTEND, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PAYMENTS SHALL NOT OCCUR MORE THAN EIGHTEEN TIMES EACH FISCAL YEAR.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, the Bill was committed to the Local Delegation.
S. 1072 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews and Davis: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE JASPER COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE SHALL RECEIVE COMPENSATION FOR EACH MEETING THE MEMBERS ATTEND, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PAYMENTS SHALL NOT OCCUR MORE THAN EIGHTEEN TIMES EACH FISCAL YEAR.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, the Bill was committed to the Local Delegation.
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 MARTIN moved under Rule 26B to take up a further amendment on third reading.
Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SR-688.KM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 41-31-5(1)(c) and (d) and inserting:
quarters of data are available, then the data from those available calendar quarters shall be used in the calculation. The benefit ratio must be calculated annually using data for quarters filed through June thirtieth of the current year to the sixth decimal place; and
(d) Beginning in tax year 2028, the number calculated by dividing the sum of all benefits charged to an employer during the twenty calendar quarters immediately preceding the calculation date by the sum of the employer's taxable payroll for the same period. If fewer than twenty but more than one calendar quarters of data are available, then the data from those available calendar quarters shall be used in the calculation. The benefit ratio must be calculated annually using data for quarters filed through June thirtieth of the current year to the sixth decimal place.; and
(e) Notwithstanding the provisions contained in items (a) through (d), an employer who is in rate class one in tax year 2026 remains subject to the calculation contained in item (b) until the employer no longer qualifies for rate class one, at which time the employer shall be subject to the calculation in item (c) or (d), as appropriate.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber 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.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
H. 3557 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Pedalino, Taylor, Guest, Crawford, Schuessler and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-15, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS TO RUN AS A CANDIDATE IN GENERAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO SHORTEN THE CANDIDATE FILING PERIOD, TO REQUIRE ALL CANDIDATES FROM EACH POLITICAL PARTY IN THIS STATE TO PAY A FILING FEE, AND TO AUTHORIZE POLITICAL PARTIES TO CHARGE A CERTIFICATION FEE TO ALL CANDIDATES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-210, RELATING TO THE FILING OF PARTY PLEDGES BY CANDIDATES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE DATE BY WHICH A PARTY PLEDGE MUST BE FILED.
Senator MARTIN desired to be recorded as voting against the third reading of the Bill.
The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
S. 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.
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.
S. 682 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Kimbrell, Corbin, Gambrell, 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.
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.
Senator MASSEY objected to consideration.
S. 270 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Hembree, Adams and Goldfinch: 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.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senators BRIGHT and HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SEDU-3974.KG0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-10-520(5) and (6) and inserting:
(5) A request made pursuant to this section does not automatically entitle a student to receive services in the school setting from a private provider absent a determination made by the school district on a case-by-case basis through the review process described in item (4).
(5)(6) If a parent or legal guardian requests a medically necessary service pursuant to the ADA for a student who does not currently have an IEP or 504 plan, the district must initiate the appropriate evaluation to determine if the child is entitled to services under the IDEA or Section 504 in addition to evaluating the ADA request.
(6)(7) Nothing in this article shall be construed to preclude a school district from utilizing certified educators or other district personnel to provide instructional, behavioral, or therapeutic supports to students as otherwise permitted by law.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, Section 59-10-530, by adding a subsection to read:
(C) The Department of Education shall develop and make available training on requesting access and guidance on the provision of services in school settings.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BRIGHT explained the Bill.
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 Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber 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.
H. 3556 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Schuessler, Guest, Taylor and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-17-560, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF A POLITICAL PARTY TO HEAR CERTAIN PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO ALSO HEAR PROTESTS AND CONTESTS IN THE CASE OF COUNTY OFFICERS, LESS THAN COUNTY OFFICERS, AND MUNICIPAL OFFICERS, TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO REQUIRE THE FILING OF ANY PROTEST OR CONTEST TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY A BOND WITH SURETY, AND TO PROVIDE FOR APPEALS FROM DECISIONS BY THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-17-570, RELATING TO HEARINGS OF PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO EXTEND THE TIME IN WHICH THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MUST CONDUCT SUCH HEARINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-80, RELATING TO MUNICIPAL PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SUCH PROTESTS AND CONTESTS ARE TO BE FILED, HEARD, AND DECIDED IN THE MANNER PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 7-17-560 AND 7-17-570; AND BY REPEALING SECTIONS 7-17-520, 7-17-530, 7-17-540, 7-17-550, 7-17-580, AND 7-17-590 ALL RELATING TO PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS FOR CERTAIN OFFICES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senators MARTIN and CLIMER proposed the following amendment (SR-3556.KM0002S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTIONS 1, 2, 3, and 4 and inserting:
SECTION X. Section 7-17-560 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 7-17-560. (A) The state executive committee must meet in Columbia at such place as may be designated by the chairman to hear and decide protests and contests that may arise in the case of federal officers, state officers, State Senate, State House of Representatives, and officers involving more than one county. Any protest or contest must be filed in writing with the chairman of the committee, together with a copy for each candidate in the race, not later than noon on Monday following the canvassing of the votes for these officers by the committee. However, service upon the chairman may be perfected by depositing at the office of the Chief of the State Law Enforcement Division a copy of the protest, together with a copy for each candidate in the race. The chief must take immediate steps to deliver these copies to the chairman. The protest must contain each ground thereof stated separately and concisely. The chairman of the committee must forthwith serve upon each candidate in the protested race a copy of the protest and serve a notice of the time and place of the meeting of the committee for the purposes of hearing the protest.
(B) A candidate that challenges or protests his election shall, for the purposes of an independent election audit, be provided for each precinct, voting center, and tabulator where in-person or absentee votes were tabulated, or where both in-person or absentee votes were tabulated, in an electronic form, free of charge:
(1) cast vote records:
(2) ballot summary reports;
(3) precinct detail reports and poll tapes for each of the precincts within the district that the challenger or protester is seeking election;
(4) poll lists of registrants who voted in each precinct or voter location;
(5) a list of provisional and challenged ballots;
(6) a list of absentee voters; and
(7) logic and accuracy reports for each precinct to ensure that each machine properly tested candidate selection.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senators MARTIN, CLIMER, and BRIGHT proposed the following amendment (SR-3556.CEM0002S), which was tabled:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 7-17-560, by adding a subsection to read:
© A candidate that challenges or protests his election shall, for the purposes of an independent election audit, immediately be provided for each precinct, voting center, and tabulator where in-person or absentee votes were tabulated, or where both in-person or absentee votes were tabulated, in an electronic form, free of charge:
(1) cast vote records;
(2) ballot summary reports;
(3) precinct detail reports and poll tapes for each of the precincts within the district that the challenger or protester is seeking election;
(4) poll lists of registrants who voted in each precinct or voter location;
(5) a list of provisional and challenged ballots;
(6) a list of absentee voters; and
(7) logic and accuracy reports for each precinct to ensure that each machine properly tested candidate selection.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 7-17-570(A) and inserting:
(A) The executive committee shall hear the protest or contest no later than the Saturday following on Thursday following the within two weeks of the deadline for filing the same. Testimony at the hearing shall be limited to the grounds stated in the written protest.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 7-17-570(D) and inserting:
(D) Appeals from decisions by the state executive committee must be taken directly to the Supreme Court on petition for a writ of certiorari. Based only on the record of the state executive committee hearing. Notice of appeal must be served within ten days of the state executive committee's decision. The Supreme Court may impose filing fees for appeals taken pursuant to this subsection.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
Senator CAMPSEN spoke on the Bill.
Senator CAMPSEN moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The amendment was laid on the table.
Senators LEBER, FERNANDEZ and BRIGHT desired to be recorded as voting against the motion to lay the amendment on the table.
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 Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Fernandez Leber Martin
There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 222 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-2-140 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE" AND PROVIDE FOR THE REGISTRATION AND OPERATION OF THEM ON THE HIGHWAYS AND STREETS OF THE STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "OFF-ROAD USE ONLY"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE PASSENGER AUTOMOBILE" TO INCLUDE CERTAIN UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLES.
On motion of Senator OTT, the Bill was carried over.
S. 227 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Kimbrell, Matthews, Turner, Young, Grooms and Campsen: 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. 866 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott and Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "MUNICIPAL TAX RELIEF ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 41 TO TITLE 5 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN MUNICIPALITIES TO IMPOSE UP TO A ONE PERFECT SALES TAX TO PROVIDE PROPERTY TAX RELIEF TO OWNER-OCCUPIED HOMES AND TO FINANCE CERTAIN PROJECTS, TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH THE TAX MUST BE IMPOSED AND ADMINISTERED AND THE MANNER IN WHICH THE PROPERTY TAX CREDIT IS CALCULATED.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator ELLIOTT proposed the following amendment (LC-866.DG0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 5-41-120(A) and inserting:
(A)(1) Subject to the requirements of this chapter, a municipal governing body of a municipality wholly or partially located in a county that does not impose any tax pursuant to Chapter 10 or Chapter 37, Title 4 or any local law enacted by the General Assembly at the time of the initial successful referendumas of January 1, 2026, may impose a sales and use tax not to exceed one percent by ordinance, subject to a referendum to be held at the next general election which must be after the 2026 general election, within the municipality for a specific purpose or purposes and for a limited amount of time. If a municipality is only located partially in a qualifying county, then the municipality only may impose the sales and use tax in the portion of the municipality located within the qualifying county.
(2) Notwithstanding item (1), a municipal governing body of a municipality wholly or partially located in a county that has never imposed any tax pursuant to Chapter 10 or Chapter 37, Title 4 or any local law enacted by the General Assembly, and otherwise qualifies, may impose the tax allowed by this chapter at any qualifying general election.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator TURNER 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 Cash Chaplin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Sabb Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Climer Corbin Garrett Kennedy Leber Martin Reichenbach Rice
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senators GROOMS and BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SR-3768.KM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 2 and inserting:
SECTION 2. The requirements of Section 57-5-880, as added by this act, expire on July 1, 202620312032, unless otherwise extended by the General Assembly.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GROOMS 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 Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber 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. 893 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin, Elliott and Zell: 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.
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 Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
On motion of Senator GAMBRELL, S. 893 with unanimous consent, was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
S. 812 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Walker: 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator RANKIN explained the amendment.
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 Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Corbin
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
On motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, S. 812 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
S. 863 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Cromer, Martin, Bennett, Rankin, Tedder Sutton and Matthews: 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator TURNER 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 Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber Martin Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Massey
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, S. 863 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (SEDU-3258.KG0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-66-35(A) and (B) and inserting:
(A) Before July 1, 20262028, each public school district and charter school in the State:
(1) shall, under the direction of the Department of Education, acquire and implement in each school a mobile panic alert system that:
(a) connects disparate emergency services technologies to ensure real-time coordination between local and state law enforcement and first responder agencies;
(b) integrates with existing technology found in each local public safety answering-point infrastructure, as defined in Section 23-47-10, to transmit 911 calls and mobile activations; and
(c) provides annual training to all public resource officers and public school personnel, who work in the districts where the systems are utilized, on the proper use of the panic button alert system;
(2) may implement additional strategies or systems to ensure real-time coordination between multiple first responder agencies in the event of a school security emergency; and
(3) may not be required to procure or implement new or additional capabilities if the district has already implemented a mobile panic alert system with capabilities that meet the requirements of item (1).; and
(4) shall utilize the school mapping data program provided by the state to implement a mobile panic alert system required by this section.
(B) The Department of Education, in consultation with the State Law Enforcement Division and the Department of Public Safety, shall
identify vendors of systems that satisfy the requirements of subsection (A)(1) for use by school districts and shall make this list of vendors available to schools no later than January 1, 20262028.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator TURNER explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators TURNER and STUBBS proposed the following amendment (SEDU-3258.KG0006S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-66-35(A)(4) and inserting:
(4) shall utilize the school mapping data program provided by the state to implement a mobile panic alert system required by this section. School mapping data must be made available to any vendor that meets the requirements of subsection (A)(1).
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator TURNER explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SR-3258.KM0001S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. The requirement that each public school district and charter school district in this State acquire and implement a mobile panic alert system, as provided for in this act, is contingent upon the appropriation of sufficient funds by the General Assembly to pay for the costs associated with the acquisition and implementation of the systems.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Bill was carried over.
S. 1061 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, RELATING TO PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5405, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1062 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, RELATING TO DETERMINATION OF RATES OF TUITION AND FEES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5443, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
H. 4730 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman, Erickson, Wooten, Ligon, Williams and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-11-360, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS OF SIGN AND BILLBOARD INSTALLATION, REPAIR, OR MAINTENANCE FROM CONTRACTOR LICENSURE, SO AS TO INCLUDE BILLBOARD STRUCTURES.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Bill was carried over.
S. 788 (Word version) -- Senators Blackmon and Stubbs: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 1, TITLE 40, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS RELATED TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND THERAPY OR PSYCHOTHERAPY; TO PROVIDE THAT A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL SHALL NOT BE PERMITTED TO USE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO ASSIST IN PROVIDING SUPPLEMENTARY SUPPORT IN THERAPY OR PSYCHOTHERAPY WHERE THE CLIENT'S THERAPEUTIC SESSION IS RECORDED UNLESS THE PATIENT IS INFORMED THAT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE WILL BE USED AND FOR WHAT PURPOSE AND THE PATIENT CONSENTS TO THIS USE; TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL, CORPORATION, OR ENTITY MAY NOT OFFER THERAPY OR PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES, INCLUDING THROUGH THE USE OF INTERNET-BASED ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, UNLESS THE THERAPY OR PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES ARE CONDUCTED BY A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL; TO PROVIDE THAT A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL MAY NOT ALLOW ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO MAKE INDEPENDENT THERAPEUTIC DECISIONS; TO REQUIRE THAT ALL RECORDS KEPT BY A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL BE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL; TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS; AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
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. 1073 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - SOUTH CAROLINA REAL ESTATE COMMISSION, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA REAL ESTATE COMMISSION, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5437, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1074 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5426, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1075 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5428, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1076 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5417, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1077 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, RELATING TO NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5418, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1078 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5424, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1079 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5427, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1080 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - MASSAGE THERAPY BOARD, RELATING TO MASSAGE THERAPY BOARD, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5400, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
S. 1081 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - SOUTH CAROLINA AUCTIONEERS' COMMISSION, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA AUCTIONEERS' COMMISSION, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5423, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was carried over.
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
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
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.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 1066 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE BRIDGE IN THE TOWN OF WHITMIRE THAT CROSSES THE CSX RAILROAD TRACK ALONG SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 72 "CAROL THOMAS MEMORIAL BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
H. 5043 (Word version) -- Reps. Wetmore and Stavrinakis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THE TRAFFIC CIRCLE LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF CAMP ROAD AND FORT JOHNSON ROAD ON JAMES ISLAND IN CHARLESTON COUNTY THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "IN MEMORY OF SGT. FIRST CLASS ISAAC GETHERS JR."
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5044 (Word version) -- Reps. Wetmore, Stavrinakis and Teeple: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF RIVER ROAD AND MAYBANK HIGHWAY ON JOHNS ISLAND IN CHARLESTON COUNTY "JANIE BLIGEN HUNTER '1984 NATIONAL HERITAGE FELLOW' INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
Senator MASSEY, Chairman of the Committee on Rules, under the provisions of Rule 32B, called S.76 from the Statewide Contested Calendar.
The motion under Rule 32B was adopted.
At 3:39 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF THE VETOES.
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
(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.
The veto of the Governor was taken up for immediate consideration.
Senator YOUNG spoke on the veto.
Senator OTT spoke on the veto.
Senator YOUNG moved that the veto of the Governor be overridden.
The question was put, "Shall the Act become law, the veto of the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding?"
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Chaplin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Leber Matthews Ott Rankin Reichenbach Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Fernandez Garrett Kennedy Martin Massey Peeler Rice
The necessary two-thirds vote having been received, the veto of the Governor was overridden, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.
S. 146 (Word version) -- Senators Nutt, Corbin, Cromer, Matthews, Martin, Zell, Alexander, Walker and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-81-40, RELATING TO RIGHTS OF RESIDENTS OF LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTS MAY DESIGNATE ONE PERSON WHO IS PERMITTED TO VISIT THE RESIDENT IN THE EVENT THAT ACCESS TO THE FACILITY IS LIMITED OR PROHIBITED DUE TO A DECLARED STATE OF EMERGENCY ARISING FROM A DISASTER OR PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator VERDIN 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 Garrett Graham Grooms Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
On motion of Senator VERDIN, 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.
S. 449 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-43-245 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHARMACISTS AND PHYSICIANS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PHYSICIANS AND MISCELLANEOUS HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-205 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHYSICIANS AND PHARMACISTS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY AND THE STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS AND TO PROVIDE THAT COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS MAY NOT BE IMPLEMENTED UNTIL AFTER THE REGULATIONS ARE EFFECTIVE.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Bill was carried over.
S. 694 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-40, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN AIKEN COUNTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF THE BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS DETERMINES THAT A PRECINCT CONTAINS NO SUITABLE LOCATION FOR A POLLING PLACE, THE BOARD, UPON APPROVAL OF A MAJORITY OF THE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, MAY LOCATE THE POLLING PLACE INSIDE THE COUNTY AND WITHIN FIVE MILES OF THE PRECINCT'S BOUNDARIES.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator YOUNG 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 Garrett Graham Grooms Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
On motion of Senator YOUNG, 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.
S. 508 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin, Goldfinch, Martin, Peeler, Bennett, Young, Blackmon, Kimbrell, Zell, Nutt, Fernandez, Alexander, Turner, Adams, Leber, Corbin, Grooms, Hembree, Rice, Massey, Garrett, Chaplin, Cromer, Johnson, Gambrell, Kennedy, Davis, Climer, Campsen, Reichenbach, Bright and Cash: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 10-1-165, RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF CERTAIN MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS, SO AS TO EXPAND THE TYPE OF MONUMENTS OR MEMORIALS THAT MAY NOT BE RELOCATED, REMOVED, OR DISTURBED, TO WITHHOLD DISBURSEMENTS FROM THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUND FOR ANY COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY THAT VIOLATES THIS SECTION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CARE AND PRESERVATION OF MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS BY CERTAIN PEOPLE OR ORGANIZATIONS, TO PROVIDE STANDING TO CERTAIN PEOPLE OR ORGANIZATIONS TO BRING A CIVIL ACTION IN RESPONSE TO A VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION OR TO PREVENT SUCH VIOLATION, AND TO PROVIDE FOR LIMITATIONS ON THE TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY UNDERNEATH A MONUMENT OR MEMORIAL OR THE TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN, ACCESS, OR VIEW A MONUMENT OR MEMORIAL.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (LC-508.DG0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 10-1-165(A)(1), (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6) and inserting:
(1) No colonial war, Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Mexican War, War Between the States, Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, any armed conflict involving South Carolinians, Native American, or African-AmericanAfrican American History monuments or memorials erected on public property of the State or any of its political subdivisions may be relocated, removed, disturbed, or altered. No historical monument or memorial, including, but not limited to, any erected on public property of the State or any of its political subdivisions may be relocated, removed, disturbed, or altered. The within prohibition shall apply to plaques, markers, or other messages, including those accessible by a QR code or other similar barcode, that are related to the historical monument or memorial but are not original to the monument or memorial and are located anywhere on the property upon which the monument or memorial is located. No street, bridge, structure, park, preserve, reserve, installation, nameplate, or other public area of the State or any of its political subdivisions dedicated in memory of or named for any historic figure, or public figure, person, or historic group of people, historic event, or commemorated event, celebrated event, occurrence, commemoration, memorial, recognition, or any other facts resulting in the placement of the monument or memorial on public property may be relocated, removed, disturbed, altered, renamed, or rededicated. The within prohibition shall apply to plaques, markers, or other messages, including those accessible by a QR code or other similar barcode, that are related to the historical monument or memorial but are not original to the monument or memorial and are located anywhere on the property upon which the monument or memorial is located. No person may prevent the public body responsible for the monument or memorial from taking proper measures and exercising proper means for the protection, preservation, and care of these monuments, memorials, or nameplates.
(2) If a county or municipality violates the provisions of item (1), then the State Treasurer shall withhold all disbursements from the Local Government Fund for that county or municipality until the violation is corrected. Further, the State, its agencies, and its political subdivisions may not assert its sovereign immunity as a defense to any civil action commenced to remedy violations committed by the State, its agencies, or its subdivisions.
(3)(2) Any person, firm, group, corporation or other legal entity shall have a right to bring civil action, to prevent or redress a violation of this section, including injunctive relief, declaratory relief and the recovery of damages, for the cost of restoration and repair of any damaged or destroyed monument or memorial, including attorney's fees and court costs. No person commencing a civil action as authorized herein shall be required to show a particularized or personal concrete injury in order to establish standing to sue.
(4)(3) The Department of History and Archives and History shall promulgate regulations to establish a process for affinity organizations or other custodians to maintain monuments and memorials, as well as restore and replace monuments and memorials that have been damaged or destroyed.
(4) If the real property upon which a monument or memorial is erected is to be sold or transferred to a private entity, the monument or memorial shall be relocated before the sale or transfer solely to an area on public property of equal or greater prominence and visibility within the same political subdivision.
(5) If necessary for public utility-related infrastructure improvements, or for the erection of a new government structure or expansion of an existing structure, a monument or memorial may be relocated solely to an area of public property of equal or greater prominence and visibility within the same political subdivision or removed temporarily during construction projects.
(6) This section does not apply to a governmental entity when temporarily relocating or removing monuments or memorials, including road dedication signs, pursuant to Sections 57-3-610, when their locations are in conflict with a highway, bridge, roadway maintenance, or construction project. Upon completion of the project, the monument or memorial shall be returned to the same location or placed in a location in the closest proximity possible to its original site.
(5)(7) For the purposes of this subsection, an "affinity organization" means an organization chartered for the purpose, primary or otherwise, of honoring a particular event, people, or time period, including, but not limited to, historical or heritage organizations and having a clearly demonstrable record of these actions.
(6) A county, municipality, or other political subdivision of the State, including a school district, may not transfer ownership of the real property underneath a monument or memorial or the real property necessary to view or access a monument or memorial subject to the provisions of item (1) to a private entity.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator VERDIN explained the committee amendment.
Senator OTT asked unanimous consent, with Senator VERDIN retaining the floor, 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 and reserve the roll call vote until third reading.
Senator JACKSON objected.
Senator VERDIN continued speaking on the amendment.
Senator GRAHAM raised a Point of Order under Rule 26E that the Bill was out of order inasmuch as there is no fiscal impact statement.
Senator JACKSON spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator GRAHAM spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator VERDIN spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator OTT spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator GRAHAM spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator TEDDER spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator MASSEY spoke on the Point of Order.
The PRESIDENT overruled the Point of Order.
Senator VERDIN continued speaking on the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator SUTTON proposed the following amendment (SMIN-508.LMS0001S), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 10-1-165(A)(7) and inserting:
(7) This section does not apply to a monument, memorial, plaque, marker, installation, nameplate, roadway designation, bridge designation, park feature, interpretive display, or other commemorative property that is actively maintained, updated, expanded, corrected, restored, supplemented, or otherwise modified to reflect ongoing or future events, newly identified information, additional names, likenesses, inscriptions, historical facts, service records, casualty information, missing persons, recovered remains, changes in rank or status, acts of valor, corrections of inaccuracies, or other recognition consistent with the original commemorative purpose. This section does not apply to a monument or memorial that is actively maintained and updated to reflect the names or service of members of the United States Armed Forces, National Guard, reserve components, law enforcement, firefighters, or first responders who are killed in action or die in the line of duty, were prisoners of war, missing in action, or otherwise honored for service. Provided that any additions, inscriptions, or updates are consistent with the original commemorative purpose of the monument or memorial and do not result in its relocation or removal.
(8) This exemption includes, but is not limited to, memorials honoring members of the United States Armed Forces, National Guard, reserve components, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, prisoners of war, missing in action personnel, veterans, public servants, victims of crimes or disasters, elected officials, historic figures, or other individuals or groups honored for service, sacrifice, duty, or historical significance.
(9) Additions, inscriptions, plaques, markers, QR codes, photographs, digital content, interpretive materials, or similar updates related to such commemorative property are permitted so long as they do not result in the complete removal of the original monument or memorial from public property.
(7) (10) For the purposes of this subsection, an "affinity organization" means an organization chartered for the purpose, primary or otherwise, of honoring a particular event, people, or time period, including, but not limited to, historical or heritage organizations and having a clearly demonstrable record of these actions.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator SUTTON explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator SUTTON, the amendment was carried over.
Senator SUTTON proposed the following amendment (SMIN-508.MW0012S), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 10-1-165(A)(7) and inserting:
(7) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a monument or memorial may be removed, relocated, or temporarily secured when a governmental entity determines that such action is necessary to protect public safety, or to address structural instability, environmental conditions, or other hazards affecting the monument or surrounding area. The governmental entity shall document the basis for its determination and the actions taken pursuant to this item.
(7) (8) For the purposes of this subsection, an "affinity organization" means an organization chartered for the purpose, primary or otherwise, of honoring a particular event, people, or time period, including, but not limited to, historical or heritage organizations and having a clearly demonstrable record of these actions.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator SUTTON explained the amendment.
Senator VERDIN spoke on the amendment.
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the amendment was carried over.
Senator SUTTON proposed the following amendment (SMIN-508.MW0016S):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 10-1-165(A), by adding an item to read:
(8) For purposes of this section, "protection, preservation, and care" includes routine maintenance, repair, accessibility improvements, landscaping, public safety measures, lighting, drainage, restoration, contextual signage, educational displays, correction of inaccuracies, digital or QR-code enhancements, and relocation necessary for construction, infrastructure, or public safety.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator SUTTON explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the Bill was read the second time, carrying over all amendments and waiving the provisions of Rule 26B in order to allow amendments to be considered on third reading and reserving the roll call vote until third reading.
Senators WALKER, DEVINE, SUTTON and OTT desired to be recorded as voting against the second reading of the Bill.
Pursuant to an invitation the Honorable Speaker and House of Representatives appeared in the Senate Chamber on April 1, 2026, at 6:00 P.M. and the following Acts and Joint Resolutions were ratified:
(R119, S. 146 (Word version)) -- Senators Nutt, Corbin, Cromer, Matthews, Martin, Zell, Alexander, Walker and Kimbrell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SENATOR ROGER A. NUTT ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 44-81-40, RELATING TO RIGHTS OF RESIDENTS OF LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTS MAY DESIGNATE UP TO THREE PEOPLE WHO ARE PERMITTED TO VISIT THE RESIDENT IN THE EVENT THAT ACCESS TO THE FACILITY IS LIMITED OR PROHIBITED DUE TO A DECLARED STATE OF EMERGENCY ARISING FROM A DISASTER OR PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY.
L:\COUNCIL\ACTS\146VR126.DOCX
(R120, S. 583 (Word version)) -- Senators Davis, Massey and Johnson: AN ACT 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, TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION, AND TO DEFINE "PHYSICAL ATTENDANCE."
L:\COUNCIL\ACTS\583WAB126.DOCX
(R121, S. 694 (Word version)) -- Senator Young: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-40, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN AIKEN COUNTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF THE BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS DETERMINES THAT A PRECINCT CONTAINS NO SUITABLE LOCATION FOR A POLLING PLACE, THE BOARD, UPON APPROVAL OF A MAJORITY OF THE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, MAY LOCATE THE POLLING PLACE INSIDE THE COUNTY AND WITHIN FIVE MILES OF THE PRECINCT'S BOUNDARIES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-60, RELATING TO MUNICIPALITIES ADOPTING METHODS OF NOMINATING CANDIDATES FOR AND DETERMINING RESULTS OF NONPARTISAN ELECTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY MUNICIPALITY WHICH ELECTS TO HOLD PARTISAN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS MUST PAY ALL COSTS AND EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONDUCT OF A MUNICIPAL PRIMARY ELECTION.
L:\COUNCIL\ACTS\694HDB126.DOCX
(R122, H. 3514 (Word version)) -- Reps. Wooten, C. Mitchell, Pedalino, Guest, Crawford and Pope: AN ACT 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.
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(R123, H. 3856 (Word version)) -- Rep. Erickson: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-80, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR LICENSES OR PERMITS, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "BLOOD TYPE" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "INFORMATION"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-3350, RELATING TO ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS AND VETERAN DESIGNATIONS ON DRIVERS' LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION THAT MUST BE SUBMITTED ON APPLICATIONS FOR A PERSON'S BLOOD TYPE TO APPEAR ON A SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD, AND TO PROVIDE A CAUSE OF ACTION BASED ON INACCURATE INFORMATION CONTAINED ON IDENTIFICATION CARDS OR DRIVERS' RECORDS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "RENTAL TRAILER"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-785, RELATING TO ISSUANCE OF PERMANENT LICENSE PLATES TO CERTAIN OWNERS OF TRAILERS AND SEMITRAILERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF LICENSE PLATES TO OWNERS OF RENTAL TRAILERS, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-2320, RELATING TO DEALER AND WHOLESALER LICENSE PLATES, SO AS TO REVISE THE NUMBER OF MOTOR VEHICLE SALES THAT MUST BE MADE BEFORE DEALER PLATES MAY BE ISSUED; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-15-560, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR WHOLESALE MOTOR VEHICLE AUCTION LICENSES AND FEES, SO AS TO REVISE EXPIRATION DATES FOR THE LICENSES AND INCREASE THE LICENSE FEES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-19-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "BUS"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-23-85, RELATING TO DRIVER INSTRUCTOR PERMITS, SO AS TO REVISE THE EXPIRATION DATES FOR THE PERMITS AND PROVIDE A SCHEDULE OF FEES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-37-30, RELATING TO ESTABLISHMENT OF THE POINTS SYSTEM FOR EVALUATING PERFORMANCE RECORDS OF DEALERS, SO AS TO ELIMINATE CERTAIN CONDUCT THAT RESULTS IN POINT VIOLATIONS AND ADD ADDITIONAL CONDUCT THAT RESULTS IN POINT VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-37-70, RELATING TO SUSPENSIONS OF LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY NOTIFY CERTAIN PERSONS BY CERTIFIED MAIL OR ELECTRONIC TRACKING; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-1010, RELATING TO TERMS AND THEIR DEFINITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH CORPORATE-OWNED FLEET MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "FLEET"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-40, RELATING TO PERSONS WHO MAY NOT BE LICENSED OR HAVE THEIR LICENSES RENEWED, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, TO PROVIDE THIS PROVISION APPLIES TO THE ISSUANCE OF IDENTIFICATION CARDS, TO ESTABLISH THE MAXIMUM PERIOD DRIVERS' LICENSES AND IDENTIFICATION CARDS ARE VALID, TO PROVIDE A FEE FOR IDENTIFICATION CARDS, AND TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES CERTAIN DISCRETION WHEN GRANTING EXTENSIONS TO DRIVERS' LICENSES AND IDENTIFICATION CARDS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-210, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF TEMPORARY LICENSE PLATES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM PERIOD THE LICENSE PLATES ARE VALID; BY REPEALING SECTION 56-5-2585 RELATING TO EXEMPTING PURPLE HEART RECIPIENTS FROM PAYING PARKING METER FEES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-19-10, RELATING TO PROTECTION OF TITLES TO AND INTERESTS IN MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL TERMS AND THEIR DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-19-265, RELATING TO LIENS OR ENCUMBRANCES RECORDED ON MOTOR VEHICLES OR MOBILE HOMES, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN ENTITIES TO UTILIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLE'S ELECTRONIC TITLE SYSTEM, AND TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS THAT ESTABLISH THE PROCEDURES TO TRANSFER VEHICLE OWNERSHIP, APPLY FOR AND THE RELEASE OF LIENS, AND PERFORM OTHER ACTIVITIES NECESSARY TO TITLE CERTAIN VEHICLES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-19-370, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR THE VOLUNTARY TRANSFER OF CERTAIN VEHICLES BY DEALERS, SO AS TO REVISE THE CONDITIONS THAT ALLOW THE PROSECUTION OF DEALERS FOR IMPROPERLY TITLING OR REGISTERING VEHICLES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-19-680, RELATING TO THE SATISFACTION OF SECURITY INTERESTS IN VEHICLES FOR WHICH CERTIFICATES OF TITLES ARE IN THE POSSESSION OF LIENHOLDERS, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROCEDURES WHEREBY LIENHOLDERS' INTERESTS ARE RELEASED, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR THE FAILURE OF LIENHOLDERS TO FORWARD CERTAIN CERTIFICATES OF TITLE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES.
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(R124, H. 3931 (Word version)) -- Reps. Bailey, Sessions, Brewer, Robbins, M.M. Smith, Burns, Haddon, Lowe, Schuessler and Guffey: AN ACT 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; BY AMENDING SECTION 48-39-80, RELATING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, SO AS TO DEEM A COASTAL ZONE CONSISTENCY CERTIFICATION APPROVED IF, FOR ALL OTHER STATE PERMITS, CERTIFICATION REVIEW IS NOT COMPLETED WITHIN NINETY DAYS OF THE PUBLIC COMMENT CLOSING; BY ADDING SECTION 48-6-35 SO AS TO PERMIT THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES TO HIRE THIRD-PARTY, INDEPENDENT ENGINEERS TO ASSIST THE DEPARTMENT WITH ITS DUTIES AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH REGULATIONS FOR CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS TO BID ON THE DEPARTMENT'S WORK; AND BY REPEALING A PORTION OF SECTION 48-39-130 AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2032, AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN MAINTENANCE DREDGING AFTER THAT DATE.
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(R125, H. 3967 (Word version)) -- Reps. Haddon, Ligon, Brewer, Bannister, Forrest, Herbkersman, Hixon, Duncan and Sanders: AN ACT 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.
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(R126, H. 5089 (Word version)) -- Reps. W. Newton and Herbkersman: AN ACT 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.
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Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, Abbeville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Abbeville County:
Hon. Erin B. Kollmann, 200 Dundas Road, Abbeville, SC 29620
Initial Appointment, Anderson County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Anderson County:
Mr. Eugene Gregg Jameson, 922 Blue Ridge Avenue, Belton, SC 29627 VICE Hon. Sherry Mattison
Reappointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Chesterfield County:
Hon. John A. Davis, 130 Rhyne Street, Chesterfield, SC 29709
Reappointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Chesterfield County:
Mr. Lanny R. Rayfield, Jr., 634 Pinewood Drive, Cheraw, SC 29520
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Matthew Bruce Hubbard, 9 Montford Court, Travelers Rest, SC 29690
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Clare Thompson Sims, 103 Beechwood Court, Mauldin, SC 29662
Initial Appointment, Chesterfield County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Chesterfield County:
Mr. Lanny R. Rayfield, Jr., 634 Pinewood Drive, Cheraw, SC 29520 VICE Kimberly B. Gaskins (resigned)
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Greenville County:
Hon. Michael Don Stokes, 408 Pearle Brook Lane, Taylors, SC 29687
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Michael Don Stokes, 408 Pearle Brook Lane, Taylors, SC 29687
Reappointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Hon. Bryan Keith Griffin, P.O. Box 1428, Sumter, SC 29151
Reappointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sumter County:
Hon. Roger Richardson, 1760 Hideaway Drive, Sumter, SC 29154
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
At 7:55 P.M., on motion of Senator KENNEDY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M., under the provisions of Rule 1B.
This web page was last updated on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 1:27 P.M.