NO. 56
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 12:00 Noon, the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.
A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:
Genesis 27:21
You might recall that in Genesis we read: "Then Isaac, said to Jacob, 'Come near so I can touch you, my son, to know whether you really are my son Esau or not.' "
Friends, join me as we bow in prayer: O Holy Lord, sadly, the reality of deceit and double-dealing has had a long, long history. Stories of ancient civilizations as well as modern-day reports of nations and their leaders who focus primarily upon their personal goals and their frequent selfish desires, all such accounts seem endless. That is why, dear Lord, here in the Senate of South Carolina we honor each individual who keeps integrity as the standard in his or her work. Indeed, may each Senator and every staff member serving the people of our State, O God, always be counted among those who honorably face the challenges of the world we live in today and who also strive to honor You in all that they do. May it ever be so. In Your loving name we pray, dear Lord. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Cash Chaplin Climer Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
Senator CORBIN recorded his presence subsequent to the Call of the Senate.
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Reappointment, Donate Life South Carolina, with the term to commence April 1, 2024, and to expire April 1, 2028
At-Large:
Thomas F. Dougall, 209 Redbay Road, Elgin, SC 29045
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Initial Appointment, Governor's School of Agriculture at John De la Howe School Board of Trustees, with the term to commence April 1, 2024, and to expire April 1, 2029
At-Large:
Philip R. Perry, 700 North Jefferson Street, Saluda, SC 29138 VICE Anne Hancock
Referred to the Committee on Education.
Reappointment, South Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy, with the term to commence September 30, 2026, and to expire September 30, 2029
Occupational Therapist:
Megan Floyd Dubose, 21 Calhoun Drive, Sumter, SC 29150
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Initial Appointment, State Board of Financial Institutions, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2028
Cooperative Credit Unions:
Keven D. Owens, 1228 Grimes Street, Georgetown, SC 29440 VICE Jennifer Michaels
Referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
Senator KENNEDY introduced Dr. Mark Humphery of Columbia, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, at 5:03 P.M., Senator KIMBRELL was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator RICE, at 5:03 P.M., Senator REICHENBACH was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
Senator OTT rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
Senator CLIMER rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
Senator OTT rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator OTT, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator CHAPLIN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator OTT, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator CHAPLIN, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator HUTTO rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator CHAPLIN, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator HUTTO, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 850 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 1001 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
The following were introduced:
S. 1130 (Word version) -- Senators Kimbrell, Davis, Johnson, Verdin, Hembree, Turner, Massey, Rice, Cash, Reichenbach, Leber, Fernandez, Climer and Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-100, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING STATE ETHICS LAWS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE HEAD OF EACH CERTIFIED POLITICAL PARTY IS SUBJECT TO THE STATE'S ETHICS LAWS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1300, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING CAMPAIGN PRACTICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE HEAD OF EACH POLITICAL PARTY IS SUBJECT TO THE STATE'S CAMPAIGN PRACTICES LAWS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 2-17-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING LOBBYISTS AND LOBBYING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTIFIED POLITICAL PARTIES ARE LOBBYIST'S PRINCIPALS AND SUBJECT TO THE STATE'S LOBBYISTS AND LOBBYING LAWS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THOSE ACTING ON BEHALF OF CERTIFIED POLITICAL PARTIES THAT ENGAGE IN LOBBYING ACTIVITIES ARE LOBBYISTS SUBJECT TO THE STATE'S LOBBYIST AND LOBBYING LAWS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 1131 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MAY 8, 2026, AS "PROVIDER APPRECIATION DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
S. 1132 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE JUNE AS "TRAILS MONTH" IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE ABUNDANCE OF TRAILS IN THIS STATE AND ENJOY THE HEALTH, LEARNING, AND SOCIAL BENEFITS THAT CAN BE DERIVED FROM THEIR USE.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and adopted.
S. 1133 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF HIGHWAY 78 FROM THE BAMBERG COUNTY LINE TO THE AIKEN COUNTY LINE THE "LONNIE HOSEY PURPLE HEART HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 1134 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MT. NEBO AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH UPON THE OCCASION OF THE CHURCH'S ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FIRST ANNIVERSARY.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1135 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF JANNIE L. VINSON BRABHAM AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
H. 5352 (Word version) -- Rep. Hosey: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME MOODY ROAD IN THE TOWN OF MARTIN IN ALLENDALE COUNTY FROM MILLET ROAD TO PATTERSON MILL DRIVE "SGT. ORENTHIAL J. 'O.J.' SMITH MEMORIAL ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
H. 5401 (Word version) -- Rep. Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-15-37, RELATING TO ELECTRONIC MONITORING BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH NEW OFFENSES AND PROVIDE PENALTIES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-53-84, RELATING TO NOTIFICATION OF ELECTRONIC MONITORING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT BONDSMEN FROM KNOWINGLY CONTRACTING WITH, REFERRING, OR OTHERWISE UTILIZING THE SERVICES OF AN UNCERTIFIED ELECTRONIC MONITORING COMPANY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 5410 (Word version) -- Reps. Moss, Pope, Guffey, King, Ligon, Martin, Sessions and Terribile: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 321 AND SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 322 IN THE CITY OF ROCK HILL IN YORK COUNTY "SHERIFF JOE MITCHELL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
H. 5519 (Word version) -- Reps. C. Mitchell, G. M. Smith and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF HIGHWAY CHURCH ROAD BETWEEN STEPHEN CAMPBELL ROAD AND LARRY JEFFERS ROAD IN THE TOWN OF ELGIN IN KERSHAW COUNTY "JEANNIE ROSE POTTER ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
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, DISPENSE, DISTRIBUTE, OR PROVIDE AN ABORTION-INDUCING DRUG TO A 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).
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 4163 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, Bowers, Bradley, Crawford, Davis, Pedalino, Hartnett, Neese, M.M. Smith, Oremus, Lawson, Vaughan, Herbkersman, B.J. Cox, Collins, B.L. Cox, Forrest, Brewer, Burns, Gatch, Haddon, Hager, Hixon, Murphy, Taylor, Whitmire, Teeple, Guest, Alexander and Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 9 TO TITLE 59, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION AND TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSE, FUNCTIONS, ORGANIZATION, AND GOVERNANCE OF THE ASSOCIATION; TO PROVIDE PUBLIC SCHOOLS, INCLUDING CHARTER SCHOOLS, MAY NOT JOIN OR AFFILIATE WITH ANY OTHER ENTITY WITHIN THE STATE FOR THE PURPOSE OF GOVERNING, SANCTIONING, OR OPERATING INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC PROGRAMS; AND TO PROVIDE PROVISIONS CONCERNING TRANSFER STUDENTS, HOME SCHOOL STUDENTS, PRIVATE SCHOOL STUDENTS, AND APPEALS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable report on:
H. 4738 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson and McGinnis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-26-20, RELATING TO CERTAIN DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION RELATING TO PUBLIC EDUCATOR TRAINING, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE GOVERNOR'S TEACHING SCHOLARSHIP LOAN PROGRAM; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-26-35, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATOR PREPARATION REPORT CARD, SO AS TO REVISE DUTIES OF THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-53-40, RELATING TO COLLEGE PARALLEL COURSES AND ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS, SO AS TO REMOVE RELATED BUDGETARY REVIEW REQUIREMENTS OF THE COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-104-40, RELATING TO THE CONVERSION FROM THE QUARTER CALENDAR SYSTEM TO THE SEMESTER CALENDAR SYSTEM BY THE TECHNICAL EDUCATION SYSTEM, SO AS TO REMOVE OBSOLETE PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-150-355, RELATING TO EDUCATION LOTTERY APPROPRIATIONS AND USES, SO AS TO REMOVE OBSOLETE PROVISIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-17-380, RELATING TO THE GRIEVANCE AND PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL PROCEDURE FOR ACADEMIC EMPLOYEES, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO THE COMMISSION; BY REPEALING CHAPTER 51, TITLE 11 RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH UNIVERSITY INFRASTRUCTURE ACT; BY REPEALING SECTION 39-9-230 RELATING TO IMPLEMENTATION OF THE METRIC SYSTEM BY THE COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE WITH ASSISTANCE BY AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-54-20 RELATING TO THE STATE OCCUPATIONAL TRAINING ADVISORY COMMITTEE; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-101-340 RELATING TO ALLOCATION OF FUNDS APPROPRIATED FOR A CERTAIN INVESTMENT INITIATIVE; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-101-360 RELATING TO CERTAIN REVENUE FROM TAX ON CATALOG SALES CREDITABLE TO MAIL ORDER SALES TAX FUND; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-103-50 RELATING TO THE ADVISORY COUNCIL OF PRIVATE COLLEGE PRESIDENTS; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-103-120 RELATING TO THE ACCREDITATION AND CHARTERING OF CHIROPRACTIC COLLEGES; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-103-162 RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-104-210 RELATING TO THE COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-104-230 RELATING TO THE ENDOWED PROFESSORSHIPS PROGRAM; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-104-410 RELATING TO THE RESEARCH INVESTMENT FUND; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-104-420 RELATING TO CRITERIA FOR RESEARCH INVESTMENT FUND USES; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-104-430 RELATING TO COMPREHENSIVE REPORTS FOR THE RESEARCH INVESTMENT FUND TO BE MADE AT THE END OF THE FISCAL YEAR; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-104-440 RELATING TO THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS FROM THE RESEARCH INVESTMENT FUND; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-105-60 RELATING TO THE MODEL SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICY CREATED BY THE CAMPUS SEXUAL ASSAULT INFORMATION ACT; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-111-75 RELATING TO THE COLLEGE LOAN PROGRAM FOR NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERS; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-121-15 RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE CITADEL TO CHANGE THE NAME OF THE INSTITUTION; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-127-75 RELATING TO THE FELTON-LABORATORY SCHOOL AT SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 59-150-380 RELATING TO THE EDUCATIONAL LOTTERY TEACHING SCHOLARSHIP GRANTS PROGRAM.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 5073 (Word version) -- Reps. Pedalino, Erickson, Montgomery, McCravy, Pace, Bradley, D. Mitchell, Terribile, Robbins, T. Moore, Sessions, Neese, Brittain, Crawford, Lawson, Edgerton, Chumley, Brewer, Chapman, Vaughan, Guest, Guffey, Cox, W. Newton, McGinnis, B. Newton, McCabe, Rankin, Gagnon, Gibson, J.E. Johnson, Long, Moss, Schuessler, G.M. Smith, White, Oremus, Teeple, Lastinger, Burns, Hewitt, Haddon, Cromer, Gilreath, Hartnett and Ballentine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-250 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL GRADING PRACTICES, TO CONDITION ELIGIBILITY FOR CREDIT RECOVERY AND CONTENT RECOVERY ON COMPLETION OF REQUIRED ASSIGNMENTS, TO LIMIT THE USE OF CERTAIN ASSESSMENTS IN CALCULATING FINAL COURSE GRADES, TO PROVIDE ENFORCEMENT THROUGH WITHHOLDING OF STATE AID TO CLASSROOM FUNDS, TO DIRECT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ESTABLISH A TASK FORCE TO EVALUATE AND RECOMMEND REVISIONS TO THE UNIFORM GRADING POLICY, AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO ADOPT THE RECOMMENDED REVISIONS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., April 21, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
S. 585 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder, Adams, Devine, Zell and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SAFEGUARDING AMERICAN FAMILIES EVERYWHERE (SAFE) ACT" AND BY ADDING SECTION 56-3-125 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPLICATIONS FOR MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS MUST INCLUDE LANGUAGE ALLOWING APPLICANTS TO VOLUNTARILY INDICATE THEY OR THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CERTAIN DISABILITIES OR DISORDERS, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO INCLUDE THE DESIGNATION "SAFE" IN THE MOTOR VEHICLE'S RECORDS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF H. 5126, THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS BILL.
H. 5126 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2026, TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Finance.
Senator PEELER asked unanimous consent to make a motion that the Report of the Committee on Finance be adopted, with all members reserving the right to raise any Points of Order and to offer amendments without regard to questions of degree.
There was no objection.
The report of the Committee on Finance was adopted.
On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, staff members from the Revenue and Fiscal Affairs office were authorized as necessary to be in that area behind the rail and, further, that Finance Committee staff and other staff designated by the PRESIDENT were admitted to the floor of the Senate Chamber while debate was in progress on H. 5126, the General Appropriations Bill.
There was no objection.
Senator PEELER spoke on the Bill.
Senator WILLIAMS assumed the Chair.
Senator BENNETT, Chairman of the Subcommittee on K-12 Education, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.
Senator CROMER, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Higher Education, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.
Senator ALEXANDER, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.
Senator DAVIS, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Natural Resources and Economic Development, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.
Senator MARTIN, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.
At 2:25 P.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.
Senator MARTIN, on behalf of Senator GROOMS, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Constitutional Budget, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.
Senator JACKSON, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Regulatory Laws, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.
Senator HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (AM ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION DUES), which was adopted (#1):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, page 291, proviso 1.48(A)(8), lines 3-7, by deleting item (8) and inserting:
/ (8) a uniform system of school classification applicable to all member schools. A multiplier system for the purpose of classification shall consider a school's geographic location and student population to include, but not be limited to, out-of-attendance zone students, adequate number of roster players to safely field a team, and performance in each sport in which it participates. A school with a satellite or auxiliary campus must be counted as one school for the purpose of this item. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend sections, totals and title to conform.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GRAHAM proposed the following amendment (SM ESTF UNBUNDLERS), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, page 312, proviso 1.124, line 7-21, by amending the proviso to read:
/ (SDE: ESTF Unbundlers) For the current fiscal year, Sections 59-8-110(14)(n) and 59-8-115(H) are suspended. The department shall suspend any award of scholarships to those they have previously identified as "unbundlers". /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend sections, totals and title to conform.
Senator GRAHAM explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, the amendment was carried over.
Senators SABB and STUBBS proposed the following amendment (DG PANIC), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, page 312, after line 24, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (SDE: Panic button) (A) From the funds appropriated to the department, each public school district and charter school in the State:
(1) shall, under the direction of the department, 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) ensure real-time coordination between multiple first responder agencies in the event of a school security emergency; and
(3) 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).
(B) The department, 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 the end of the current fiscal year.
(C) This proviso does not apply to any district or school that has already implemented a mobile panic alert system with capabilities that meet the requirements of subsection (A)(1). /
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Senator SABB explained the amendment.
Senator STUBBS spoke on the amendment.
Senator BRIGHT spoke on the amendment.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the amendment was carried over.
Senator OTT proposed the following amendment (AM ASSESSMENT PILOT), which was adopted (#2):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1A, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - EIA, page 343, after line 8, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (SDE-EIA: Assessment Pilot) Of the funds authorized and appropriated in this act, a school district located in Lexington County may expend funds to implement a pilot program to administer state-required assessments, other than English Language Arts, to students identified as English Language Learners in their native language. Such assessments include, but are not limited to, kindergarten readiness assessments and those administered pursuant to the state assessment program in Title 59, Chapter 18, excluding English Language Arts assessments. /
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Senator OTT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators BRIGHT, KENNEDY and LEBER desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of the amendment.
Senator STUBBS proposed the following amendment (SM CLEMSON PSA ACCOUNT), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 45, CLEMSON UNIVERSITY - PSA, page 409, after line 26, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (CU-PSA: Separate Accounting and Transfer Prohibition) (A) Funds appropriated in this act to Clemson University Public Service Activities (PSA) for agricultural research, extension, regulatory, and related public service programs shall be maintained, budgeted, and accounted for in a separate and distinct fund or account from all funds appropriated to Clemson University Education & General (E&G). Clemson University and Clemson PSA are hereby treated as two separate state agencies for all financial, accounting, and reporting purposes. No funds, including state appropriations, federal pass-throughs, indirect cost recoveries, or any other revenues, shall be transferred, loaned, commingled, or otherwise moved between the PSA account and the E&G account (or any auxiliary, restricted, or other funds under the administrative control of the greater University) without the express prior written approval of the General Assembly through a subsequent provision or statute. Any attempt to circumvent this separation through internal reallocations, shared services charges, or administrative overhead assessments is prohibited.
(B) Clemson University shall submit quarterly reports no later than thirty days after the end of each fiscal quarter to the Executive Budget Office, the House Ways and Means Committee, the Senate Finance Committee, and the Legislative Audit Council. Each report must certify compliance with this provision, detail all PSA and E&G expenditures by fund source, and identify any shared administrative costs with a clear allocation methodology that does not result in cross-subsidization. The Executive Budget Office shall withhold no less than ten percent of the total E&G appropriation until full compliance is achieved and certified.
(C) Any unexpended PSA funds at year-end may be carried forward only within the PSA account as otherwise authorized by existing law or provision. /
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Senator STUBBS explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator STUBBS, the amendment was carried over.
Senator DAVIS proposed the following amendment (SM MARINE COASTAL CENTER CARRY FORWARD), which was adopted (#3):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 47, DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, page 413, after line 10, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/(DNR: Coastal Center Carry Forward) The Department of Natural Resources is authorized to carry forward and expend funds for the Coastal and Marine Resources Center for the same purpose. /
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Senator DAVIS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator CAMPSEN proposed the following amendment (SA\ 5126C002.CC.SA26.DOCX), which was adopted (#4):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 47, DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, page 413, after line 10, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (DNR: Removal and Disposal of Vessels) Any restitution or insurance proceeds received by a state agency as a result of prosecution or civil action under Article 2, Chapter 21, Title 50 of the S.C. Code must be remitted to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to be held in an account for the removal and disposal of abandoned vessels, derelict vessels, and sunken vessels. /
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Senator CAMPSEN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator BRIGHT desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of the amendment.
Senators SUTTON, CAMPSEN, CORBIN, MARTIN, BLACKMON and BRIGHT proposed the following amendment (DG COMMERCEDC), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 50, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, page 422, after line 2, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (CMRC: Incentive prohibition) (A) No funds appropriated or authorized for use by the Coordinating Council for Economic Development, including but not limited to the Closing Fund, or appropriated or authorized the department for any other purpose, may be used to recruit, locate, expand, or construct a data center in this State. This proviso applies to any project for which an incentive agreement was not in place at the beginning of the current fiscal year.
(B) The Department of Commerce shall provide a report to the General Assembly by January 15, 2027, identifying any data center projects that applied for or received incentives in any previous fiscal year and summarizing the total value of such incentives.
(C) For purposes of this proviso, "data center" means a facility, campus, or group of facilities used primarily for the storage, management, processing, or dissemination of data or information, including associated cooling systems and electrical infrastructure. /
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Senator SUTTON explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator SUTTON, the amendment was carried over.
Senators BLACKMON and CHAPLIN proposed the following amendment (AM DATA CENTER WATER USE), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 55, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, page 428, after line 24, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (DES: Commercial Data Center Water Use Reporting) (A) With funds appropriated in the current fiscal year to the Department of Environmental Services for Water Management, the department shall require a commercial data center to report to the department, by January thirty-first, the source and monthly volume of surface water, groundwater, or other water utilized during the prior calendar year and the anticipated volume of water to be utilized during the current fiscal year.
(B) The department shall make these reports publicly available and may audit the reports and any supporting data; provided, however, the department gives at least thirty days' notice prior to commencing an audit. The department may assess a civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars for each day after January thirty-first that a required report is not filed and may assess a civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars for any inaccurate, misleading, or false information contained in a report.
(C) For purposes of the proviso, "data center" is defined as a facility, campus of facilities, or array of interconnected facilities in this State used by a business enterprise to operate, manage, or maintain computers or related systems for the primary purpose of storing, retrieving, or transmitting data, that consumes three million or more gallons of water per month. /
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Senator BLACKMON explained the amendment.
Senator MASSEY raised a Point of Order under Rule 24A that Proviso 108.16 of Part 1B was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the Bill.
108.16. (PEBA: Pharmacist Clinical Care Pilot Program) For Fiscal Year 2026 - 2027, the South Carolina Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA) is authorized to establish and administer a pilot program within the State Health Plan to evaluate the impact of expanded pharmacist-provided clinical services on access to care, health outcomes, cost containment, and community pharmacy sustainability.
(A) PEBA may permit licensed pharmacists participating in the State Health Plan network to provide specified clinical services for purposes of this pilot. For purposes of implementing the pilot program, the provisions of Sections 40-43-30(50) and 40-47-200, are suspended with respect to pharmacists and pharmacies participating in the pilot to the extent necessary to allow the services authorized under the program.
(B) PEBA shall consult with the deans of the accredited schools of pharmacy in this State to develop the scope of services and protocols for the pilot program. The scope may include, but is not limited to, pharmacist-provided services related to:
(1) comprehensive medication management for chronic conditions;
(2) initiation, modification, or discontinuation of medication therapy pursuant to the protocols;
(3) ordering and interpretation of laboratory tests; and
(4) ongoing disease-state monitoring and follow-up care.
(C) PEBA may limit participation to pharmacists and pharmacies meeting credentialing, training, and quality standards established by PEBA in consultation with the deans of the accredited schools of pharmacy in this State. PEBA is encouraged to include independent community pharmacies, particularly those serving rural or underserved areas, as pilot participants.
(D) Of the funding appropriated to PEBA, up to five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) may be used to plan, develop, implement, administer, and evaluate the pilot program including, but not limited to, contracting, data collection, systems support, and reporting requirements.
(E) PEBA may establish reimbursement methodologies for services provided under the pilot, including alternative payment models or value-based arrangements, provided that total State Health Plan expenditures are not increased as a result of the pilot.
(F) PEBA shall evaluate the pilot program using measurable outcomes, which must include, at a minimum:
(1) access to care impacts, particularly in rural and underserved areas;
(2) patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes;
(3) health care utilization and cost benefit analysis;
(4) participation, financial impacts, and service capacity of independent community pharmacies participating in the pilot; and
(5) the feasibility of expanding the program.
(G) PEBA shall submit a report no later February 28, 2027, to the Governor and the Chairmen of the Senate Finance Committee and House Ways and Means Committee. The report must include findings, cost impacts, and recommendations regarding continuation, modification, or expansion of the pilot.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
The proviso was ruled out of order.
Senator OTT raised a Point of Order under Rule 24A that Proviso 1A.16 of Part 1B was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the
Bill.
1A.16. (SDE-EIA: Assessment) The department is authorized to carry forward into the current fiscal year, prior year state assessment funds for the same purpose. Reimbursements shall resume in the current fiscal year for PSAT, pre-ACT PreACT, CLT10, or 10th grade Aspire.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
The proviso was ruled out of order.
Senator GOLDFINCH proposed the following amendment (SM COMPETITIVE BIDS FOR OUTSIDE COUNSEL), which was adopted (#5):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 59, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, page 433, after line 30, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (AG: Competitive Bids for Outside Counsel) For the current fiscal year, unless an extraordinary situation requires assistance from a specific legal expert with technical or scientific experience not generally available, the Attorney General shall make every effort to competitively bid contracts for outside counsel in order to provide the highest quality services for the citizens of South Carolina. /
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Senator GOLDFINCH explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GOLDFINCH proposed the following amendment (SM CONTRACTS WITH VENDORS), which was adopted (#6):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 59, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, page 433, after line 30, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (AG: Contracts with Vendors) For the current fiscal year, all contracts with vendors, including outside counsel, who provide services to the state or perform legal work in the name of the State, shall be publicly posted on the Office of Attorney General website. /
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Senator GOLDFINCH explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GOLDFINCH proposed the following amendment (SM OUTSIDE COUNSEL), which was adopted (#7):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 59, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, page 433, after line 30, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (AG: Outside Counsel) Outside counsel providing services to the Attorney General on behalf of the state's citizens and taxpayers on a contingent-fee basis shall report detailed information regarding the hours worked, services performed, and fees received from the state, provided this reporting does not undermine the attorney-client privilege./
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Senator GOLDFINCH explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GOLDFINCH proposed the following amendment (SM CONTINGENT FEE BASED CONTRACTS), which was adopted (#8):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 59, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, page 433, after line 30, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (AG: Contingent Fee-Based Contracts) Contingent fee-based contracts used when the Attorney General or the Office of Attorney General staff are pursuing litigation that potentially has a significant public policy or regulatory impact shall be subject to review by the State Fiscal Accountability Authority. /
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Senator GOLDFINCH explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SM JUDICIAL CIRCUITS STATE SUPPORT), which was adopted (#9):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 60, PROSECUTION COORDINATION COMMISSION, page 434, proviso 60.3,lines 3 - 6, by striking the proviso in its entirety, and inserting:
/ 60.3. (PCC: Judicial Circuits State Support) The amount appropriated and authorized in this section for Judicial Circuits (16) State Support shall be apportioned among the circuits. The first $7,632,961 $8,432,961 shall be distributed on a per capita basis based upon the current official census. The next $2,919,041 $4,659,041 shall be distributed on a pro rata basis in equal amounts. Payment shall be made as soon after the beginning of each quarter as practical. /
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Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GOLDFINCH proposed the following amendment (AM JUVENILE ARBITRATION), which was adopted (#10):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 67, DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE, page 453, proviso 67.6, lines 16-19, by amending the proviso to read:
/ 67.6. (DJJ: Juvenile Arbitration/Community Advocacy Program) (A) The amount appropriated and authorized in this section for the Juvenile Arbitration Program and other juvenile diversion programs shall be retained and expended by the Department of Juvenile Justice for the purpose of providing juvenile arbitration services through the sixteen Judicial Circuit Solicitors' offices in the state and used to fund necessary administrative and personnel costs for the programs.
(B) The Department of Juvenile Justice shall contract with Solicitors to administer the Juvenile Arbitration Program and disburse up to $60,000 $141,875 per Judicial Circuit based on services rendered. The amount payable to Solicitors may vary based on consistent adherence to established statewide program guidelines to assess program performance.
The $350,000 appropriated for the Community Advocacy Program in the first Judicial Circuit, will be used to fund necessary administrative and personnel costs for this status offender diversion program. The Department of Juvenile Justice shall monitor and provide support to this program.
(C) All unexpended funds may be retained and carried forward from the prior fiscal year to be used for the same purposes. /
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Senator GOLDFINCH explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (DG REVLICPLATE), which was adopted (#11):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 82, DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, page 466, after line 23, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (DMV: License plate) From the funds appropriated to the department, during the current fiscal year, the South Carolina Revolutionary War Sestercentennial Commission shall submit to the department for approval a new design, emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol it desires to be used as the regular license plate to commemorate the two hundred fiftieth anniversary of the American Revolution. The design, emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol submitted to the department must be imprinted with the words "Where the Revolution Was Won" and shall include, at a minimum, a flag against an indigo background together with a gorget in an upper corner of the flag, also known as the Moultrie Flag. The department must use the commission's submission pursuant to this proviso as the new design. /
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Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (5126R003.KMM.SRM.DOCX), which was adopted (#12):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 91, LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT, page 476, proviso 91.13, line 22, by striking the proviso in its entirety and inserting:
/ 91.13. (LEG: In-District Compensation Legislative Expense Allowance) (A) All Beginning on July 1, 2026, and ending on November 1, 2026, members of the General Assembly shall receive an in-district compensation legislative expense allowance of $2,500 $1,000 per month.
(B) Beginning on December 1, 2026, members of the General Assembly shall receive an in-district legislative expense allowance of $2,500 per month. /
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Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Allen Blackmon Corbin Devine Elliott Gambrell Graham Hutto Jackson Leber Martin Matthews Ott Sabb Sutton Tedder Verdin Walker Williams Zell
Alexander Bennett Bright Campsen Cash Climer Cromer Davis Fernandez Goldfinch Hembree Johnson Kennedy Massey Peeler Rankin Rice Stubbs Turner Young
The amendment was adopted.
Senator JOHNSON proposed the following amendment (SM DRUG PRICING PROGRAM REPORT), which was adopted (#13):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 108, PUBLIC EMPLOYEE BENEFIT AUTHORITY, page 506, after line 31, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (PEBA: Drug Pricing Program Report) With the funds appropriated in this act, the Public Employee Benefit Authority shall submit a report to the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee by April 1st on any financial impact to the state employee health plan arising from the 340B Drug Pricing Program. This study shall include, but not be limited to, 340B entity purchases, contract pharmacy arrangements, and general practices related to 340B drugs, whether self-administered or provider-administered. The report shall include, but not be limited to, an analysis of foregone rebates, impact on premiums, and the impact to state employee out-of-pocket costs. Any other state health agency shall provide requested information to the Public Employee Benefit Authority required to complete this report. /
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Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator ADAMS proposed the following amendment (SM PORS RETURN TO WORK), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 108, PUBLIC EMPLOYEE BENEFIT AUTHORITY, page 506, after line 31, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (PEBA: Retired Member of PORS) A retired member of the Police Officers Retirement System (PORS), who has been retired for at least ninety consecutive calendar days, may be hired and return to employment covered by PORS. Such a member may earn up to eighty thousand dollars annually without affecting the monthly retirement allowance received from PORS. However, if a law enforcement officer holds a supervisory rank at the time of retirement, he shall not be eligible to return to a supervisory position pursuant to the requirements of this proviso. Returning to covered employment does not accrue additional service credit. /
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Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator ADAMS, the amendment was carried over.
Senators JOHNSON, CLIMER and DAVIS proposed the following amendment (AM TELEMEDICINE NETWORK), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 117, GENERAL PROVISIONS, pages 549-550, proviso 117.112, by amending the proviso to read:
/ 117.112. (GP: South Carolina Telemedicine Network) (A) From the funds appropriated to the Medical University of South Carolina for the MUSC Hospital Authority for Telemedicine and the funds appropriated and authorized for the Department of Health and Human Services, the agencies must continue the development of the South Carolina Statewide Telemedicine Network. As part of the statewide telemedicine network, a physician licensed to practice medicine and is in good standing in South Carolina and who primarily practices at a site physically located in this State or in a state contiguous to South Carolina and who is employed by a hospital or integrated healthcare system that owns hospitals licensed in this State or in a state contiguous to South Carolina that also employs physicians who primarily practice at a site physically located in this State shall be deemed to be practicing medicine within the geographic boundaries of South Carolina for the purposes of supervising physicians assistants and entering practice agreements with nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists who are located in South Carolina; provided, however, that any such physician receives prior approval from the Board of Medical Examiners before such supervision. The South Carolina Telehealth Alliance shall submit a proposal to the MUSC Hospital Authority and the Department of Health and Human Services to determine which hospitals, clinics, schools or other entities are best suited for Telemedicine partnerships.
(A)(B) The Department of Health and Human Services shall develop or continue a program to leverage the use of teaching hospitals to provide rural physician coverage by expanding the use of Telemedicine, to include new applications such as School Based Telehealth, and Tele ICU. The department shall also amend its policy related to reimbursement for telemedicine to add Act 301 Behavioral Health Centers as a referring site for covered telemedicine services.
(B)(C) During the current fiscal year the Department of Health and Human Services shall contract with the MUSC Hospital Authority in the amount of $5,000,000 to lead the development and operation of a statewide, open access South Carolina Telemedicine Network. At the request of the department, MUSC shall provide the department with all information and materials necessary to seek federal medical assistance for this contract. The MUSC Hospital Authority shall contract with each Regional Support Hub to ensure funding and support of strategic plans submitted by the Regional Support Hubs and approved by both the MUSC Hospital Authority and the Department of Health and Human Services. Institutions and other entities participating in the network must be afforded the opportunity to meaningfully participate in the development of any annual refining to the initiative's strategic plan. Working with the department, the MUSC Hospital Authority shall collaborate with Palmetto Care Connections to pursue this goal. No less than $1,000,000 of these funds shall be allocated toward support of Palmetto Care Connections and other hospitals in South Carolina. The MUSC Hospital Authority must provide the department with quarterly reports regarding the funds allocation and progress of telemedicine transformation efforts and networks. These reports must include an itemization of the ultimate recipients of these funds, whether vendors, grantees, specific participating institutions, or the Medical University of South Carolina, and must distinguish between funds allocation to the university as a participating institution as opposed to those retained and used by the university in its capacity as the administering entity for the network.
(C)(D) The Department of Health and Human Services shall continue to identify and implement telehealth benefits and policies that are evidence based, cost efficient, and aligned with the needs of the Medicaid population. The department must also continue to review the temporary telephonic and telehealth flexibilities it has adopted to address the COVID 19 public health emergency and make permanent those that are suitable for inclusion in the Medicaid benefit. No later than October 1, the department shall submit a report to the Governor, the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee on policy and benefit changes it has introduced in the furtherance of this goal and as part of its ongoing effort to improve the sustainability of telehealth services.
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Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator JOHNSON, the amendment was carried over.
Senators OTT and WALKER proposed the following amendment (SM JOINT RECYCLING STUDY COMMITTEE), which was adopted (#14):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 117, GENERAL PROVISIONS, page 585, after line 27, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (GP: Joint Recycling Study Committee) (A) Of the funds appropriated in this act, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism shall jointly convene a study committee to review the existing Strategic State Plan for Litter, as established by Act 8 of 2015, and propose recommendations for the implementation of a Strategic State Plan for Recycling and any corresponding recommendations to the Take Palmetto Pride in Where You Live Commission.
(B) The committee shall study the following areas:
(1) quantity and sources of litter across the State to include the relative percentage of recyclable materials found in litter;
(2) as available, the cost of local governments to manage litter, illegal dumping, and local recycling;
(3) assessment of existing state and local recycling programs, public awareness campaigns, and enforcement programs including the effectiveness of current penalties and collection of fines;
(4) assessment of the sufficiency of existing state laws and local ordinances related to litter clean-up, prevention, and recycling; and
(5) the cost to local governments to implement a strategic recycling plan as recommended by the study committee.
(C) The study committee shall be comprised of the following:
(1) one member appointed by the Secretary of Transportation;
(2) one member appointed by the Director of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism;
(3) one member appointed by the Director of the Department of Natural Resources;
(4) one member appointed by the Secretary of Commerce;
(5) two members appointed by the President of the Senate;
(6) two members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;
Of the members selected from the Senate and House of Representatives, the committee shall select a chair and a co-chair, one from each respective body.
(7) one member appointed by Governor representing local government interests; and
(8) three members appointed by the Governor who have expertise in the following fields:
(a) beverage manufacturing, wholesaling, distribution, and retail;
(b) waste management and recycling; and
(c) litter prevention.
(D) Members of the study committee shall serve ex officio and receive no compensation, but may receive mileage, per diem, or subsistence from the department or organization the member represents.
(E) The study committee must submit a research-based plan of recommended actions that can be used statewide to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the Senate, the Chairman of House Ways & Means Committee, and the Chairman of Senate Finance Committee no later than March 1, 2027. /
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Senator OTT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GOLDFINCH proposed the following amendment (DG SLASH), which was adopted (#15):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 117, GENERAL PROVISIONS, page 585, after line 27, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (GP: Slash notation) From the funds appropriated to the Local Government Fund or otherwise appropriated or authorized in this act and passed through to local taxing entities, for the property tax year that ends during the current fiscal year, every property tax notice or assessment on real property must include an itemized list of any homestead exemption received by the taxpayer and a notation of State Legislature Aiding in Saving Homes (SLASH), the amount in which the individual's property tax bill was reduced, and in the amount, if any, in which the State reimbursed the local taxing jurisdictions on behalf of the individual. /
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Senator GOLDFINCH explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator BRIGHT proposed the following amendment (SM ANNUAL ABORTION AND PROCEDURES REPORTING), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 117, GENERAL PROVISIONS, page 585, after line 27, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (GP: Annual Abortion and Procedures Reporting) (A) For the current fiscal year, the Public Employee Benefit Authority and the Department of Health and Human Services shall each prepare and submit an annual report to the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. Each report shall be submitted no later than March 1 of the current fiscal year and shall cover all activity during the preceding calendar year. The report must include:
(1) the total number of abortions paid for, in whole or in part, or for which reimbursement was provided by the agency (or by health plans administered by the agency), broken down by the specific statutory exception under South Carolina law that authorized the procedure (Sections 44-41-640 (medical emergency), 44-41-650 (rape or incest), 44-41-660 (fatal fetal anomaly), or any successor provisions of Title 44, Chapter 41, as amended); and
(2) separately, the number of dilation and curettage (D&C) procedures or any equivalent uterine evacuation procedures paid for or reimbursed by the agency that were performed solely to remove a dead unborn child, and which are excluded from the definition of abortion under Section 44-41-610(1) (or successor provisions).
(B) The reports shall be prepared in a manner that protects patient confidentiality and shall contain no personally identifiable information. The agencies shall make the full reports publicly available on their respective websites. /
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Senator BRIGHT explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the amendment was carried over.
Senators JOHNSON and CLIMER proposed the following amendment (AM SOLAR MANUFACTURING), which was adopted (#16):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 117, GENERAL PROVISIONS, page 585, after line 27, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (GP: Solar Manufacturing) No funds appropriated to the Department of Environmental Services in this act may be used to issue permits, approvals, or enter into any consent orders or compliance agreements to allow the manufacturing of solar panel materials, cells, or panels that is located on property that is adjacent to the property line of a public school. /
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Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator BRIGHT proposed the following amendment (5126R006.CM.LB.DOCX), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 117, GENERAL PROVISIONS, page 585, after line 27, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/117. (GP: Administration of Vacant Positions) Any full-time equivalent (FTE) position in an agency that has been vacant for more than twelve months as of October31 of the current fiscal year must be deleted by the Department of Administration upon approval by the State Fiscal Accountability Authority. Each agency is allowed to retain a five percent vacancy factor based on the total number of authorized positions or a minimum of ten positions, whichever is greater. Positions that have been posted and/or in the hiring process shall not be deleted. This proviso does not supersede proviso 57.15 or proviso 91.23./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend sections, totals and title to conform.
Senator BRIGHT explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the amendment was carried over.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (AM ETHICS), which was adopted (#17):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 117, GENERAL PROVISIONS, page 585, after line 27, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (GP: Ethics Filing) An ethics filer reporting income appropriated by this act on the filer's statement of economic interests pursuant to Section 8-13-1120(A)(2) shall report each source, type, and amount or value of income separately. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend sections, totals and title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator STUBBS proposed the following amendment (AM FEED LOT FEASIBILITY), which was adopted (#18):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 118, STATEWIDE REVENUE, page 606, proviso 118.21, after line 33, by inserting:
/ (40.1) Of the funds appropriated to the Growing Agribusiness Fund in item (40)(a), the department shall utilize the necessary funds to conduct a feasibility study regarding the establishment of a South Carolina-based cattle feed lot(s) capable of finishing up to 20,000 head of cattle per 180-day cycle utilizing South Carolina-produced soy and corn products. The study shall evaluate, at a minimum, the costs to purchase adequate acreage, provide not less than three geographically feasible locations for efficient delivery of South Carolina-produced corn and soy to supply the facility, the availability of South Carolina-produced grains, the availability of South Carolina beef cattle, and the potential benefits to the South Carolina agricultural industry and the economy. The study should also study the feasibility of a farm grant program to subsidize the necessary infrastructure use for beef farmers to finish their own cattle at their own farm. The department shall work cooperatively, as needed, with Clemson University Public Service Activities, the South Carolina Department of Commerce, South Carolina State Public Service Activities, and any other resource as deemed appropriate in gathering the information needed for the feasibility study. The department shall deliver the final report to the General Assembly by March 15, 2027. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend sections, totals and title to conform.
Senator STUBBS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators DAVIS, MATTHEWS and CAMPSEN proposed the following amendment (SM MARINE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM), which was adopted (#19):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 118, STATEWIDE REVENUE, page 615, proviso 118.21, after line 17, by inserting:
/ (93.1) The funds appropriated in item (93)(f) to assist with the implementation of a Marine Transportation System for Beaufort and Jasper Counties shall be used to provide public investment necessary to attract and leverage private sector participation, including ferry operators, water taxi services, and hospitality businesses as recommended in the feasibility study prepared by Stantec Consulting Services for the Southern Carolina Regional Economic Development Alliance which established of the technical feasibility and economic justification of a viable marine transport system. The Department of Transportation shall work with Beaufort and Jasper Counties, local chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, the South Carolina Intracoastal Transportation Management Association, and other stakeholders to identify and actively engage private sector improvements at terminal locations identified in the Stantec study, vessel acquisition assistance, charging infrastructure, permitting and environmental coordination, and related capital investments that reduce barriers to private participation. The Department shall prioritize expenditures that maximize private sector leverage and shall not duplicate planning work already completed. The Department shall submit a report to the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee no later than January 31, 2027, describing private sector engagement efforts, commitments obtained, funds expended, and a projected timeline for system operations to commence. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend sections, totals and title to conform.
Senator DAVIS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators BRIGHT and KENNEDY desired to be recorded as voting against the adoption of the amendment.
Senators MATTHEWS, CASH and BLACKMON proposed the following amendment (AM DELINQUENT TAX PENALTY), which was carried over:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 118, STATEWIDE REVENUE, page 617, after line 4, by adding an appropriately numbered new proviso to read:
/ (SR: Delinquent Tax Penalty) No county or municipality in this State shall impose or collect a delinquent tax penalty on any property tax bill that exceeds the amount of the underlying delinquent tax due. Any penalty assessed or collected in violation of this provision shall be refunded to the taxpayer, and no interest shall accrue on such improperly assessed penalty. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend sections, totals and title to conform.
Senator MATTHEWS explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, the amendment was carried over.
Senator PEELER asked unanimous consent to make a motion that H. 5126, the General Appropriations Bill, be given a second reading, carrying over all amendments to third reading, with all members reserving the right to raise any Points of Order and waiving the provisions of Rule 26B to allow further amendments on third reading.
There was no objection.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed that if and when the Senate stands adjourned today, it will adjourn to meet tomorrow morning at 10:00 A.M.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the seal of secrecy was removed, so far as the same relates to appointments made by the Governor and the following names were reported to the Senate in open session:
Having received a favorable report from the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, with the term to commence April 6, 2024, and to expire April 6, 2030
5th Congressional District:
Dr. Christine E. White, 1520 Highcrest Way, Rock Hill, SC 29730-6668
On motion of Senator CLIMER, the question was confirmation of Dr. Christine E. White.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Dr. Christine E. White was confirmed.
Having received a favorable report from the Education Committee, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, South Carolina Arts Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2027
At-Large:
Flavia B. Harton, 321 Belmont Ave., Greenville, SC 29601
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, the question was confirmation of Flavia B. Harton.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Flavia B. Harton was confirmed.
Having received a favorable report from the Family and Veterans' Services Committee, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Social Work Examiners, with the term to commence November 27, 2026, and to expire November 27, 2030
Independent Social Worker:
Jeffery Cameron, 403 Meadow Hill Way, Greer, SC 29650-5104
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Jeffery Cameron.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Jeffery Cameron was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Social Work Examiners, with the term to commence November 27, 2026, and to expire November 27, 2030
Independent Social Worker:
Dell A. Lancaster, 107 Crestland Dr., Columbia, SC 29210-4021
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Dell A. Lancaster.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Dell A. Lancaster was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Social Work Examiners, with the term to commence November 27, 2026, and to expire November 27, 2030
Master Social Worker:
Alicia Layne Alderson Nix, 312 Winding Way, Columbia, SC 29212-1347
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Alicia Layne Alderson Nix.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Alicia Layne Alderson Nix was confirmed.
Initial Appointment, Department of Children's Advocacy, with the term to commence July 1, 2025, and to expire July 1, 2031
State Child Advocate:
Margaret Fent Bodman, Esquire, 603 Allens Way, Columbia, SC 29205 VICE Amanda F. Whittle
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Margaret Fent Bodman, Esquire.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Massey
The appointment of Margaret Fent Bodman, Esquire was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina Foster Care Review Board, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
4th Congressional District:
Jane W. Daniel, 107 East Shallowstone Road, Greer, SC 29650
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Jane W. Daniel.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Jane W. Daniel was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina Foster Care Review Board, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2028
3rd Congressional District:
George E. Jones, Jr., 107 Walnut Street, Greenwood, SC 29646-0205
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of George E. Jones, Jr..
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of George E. Jones, Jr. was confirmed.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Foster Care Review Board, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
2nd Congressional District:
Cheryl Azouri Long, 219 Healing Springs Road, Blackville, SC 29817 VICE Margaret Jo B. Hecker
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Cheryl Azouri Long.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Cheryl Azouri Long was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina Foster Care Review Board, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2028
5th Congressional District:
Mary D. Long, 508 Indigo Court, Camden, SC 29020
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Mary D. Long.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Mary D. Long was confirmed.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Foster Care Review Board, with the term to commence June 30, 2022, and to expire June 30, 2026
7th Congressional District:
Felicia B. Miles, Ph.D., 628 Oxbow Dr., Myrtle Beach, SC 29579 VICE Vernon Lee McCurry
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the question was confirmation of Felicia B. Miles, Ph.D..
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Felicia B. Miles, Ph.D. was confirmed.
Having received a favorable report from the Judiciary Committee, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:
Initial Appointment, Director, State Election Commission, with the term to commence March 25, 2026, and to expire March 25, 2030
Joseph C. Belangia, 218 Leake Street, Mauldin, SC 29662
On motion of Senator RANKIN, the question was confirmation of Joseph C. Belangia.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Joseph C. Belangia was confirmed.
Having received a favorable report from the Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Initial Appointment, Jobs Economic Development Authority, with the term to commence July 27, 2024, and to expire July 27, 2027
1st Congressional District:
Mark Stacy, 2788 Gaston Gate, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 VICE Henry B. Fishburne (resigned)
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the question was confirmation of Mark Stacy.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Mark Stacy was confirmed.
Initial Appointment, Board of Massage Therapy, with the term to commence June 30, 2023, and to expire June 30, 2027
Massage/Bodywork Therapist:
Jessica Jones, 525 Hampton Street, Camden, SC 29020 VICE Sherri Rees
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the question was confirmation of Jessica Jones.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Jessica Jones was confirmed.
Reappointment, Board of Massage Therapy, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
Massage/Bodywork Therapist:
Bailey B. R. Maddox, LMT, CLT, 1898 Calhoun Street, Suite 8, Columbia, SC 29201-2650
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the question was confirmation of Bailey B. R. Maddox, LMT, CLT.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Bailey B. R. Maddox, LMT, CLT was confirmed.
Reappointment, Board of Massage Therapy, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
Massage/Bodywork Therapist:
Janet W. Shaw, 802 Pinedale Road, West Columbia, SC 29170
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the question was confirmation of Janet W. Shaw.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Janet W. Shaw was confirmed.
Having received a favorable report from the Medical Affairs Committee, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Board of Long-Term Health Care Administrators, with the term to commence June 9, 2025, and to expire June 9, 2028
Hospital Administrator:
Raymond Tiller, 9151 Highway 9, Nichols, SC 29581 VICE Elizabeth A. Schaper
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the question was confirmation of Raymond Tiller.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Raymond Tiller was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy, with the term to commence September 30, 2024, and to expire September 30, 2027
Occupational Therapist:
Ricardo Holmes, 2 Bradford Ridge Court, Columbia, SC 29223
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the question was confirmation of Ricardo Holmes.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Ricardo Holmes was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Nursing, with the term to commence December 31, 2025, and to expire December 31, 2029
General Public:
Lindsey K. Mitcham, 332 Clay Road, Camden, SC 29020-1622
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the question was confirmation of Lindsey K. Mitcham.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Lindsey K. Mitcham was confirmed.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Examiners in Speech Pathology and Audiology, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
Speech-Language Pathologist:
Beth Findley Montgomery, 14 Hillstone Court, Columbia, SC 29212
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the question was confirmation of Beth Findley Montgomery.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Beth Findley Montgomery was confirmed.
Reappointment, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, with the term to commence June 2, 2026, and to expire June 2, 2030
Speech-Language Pathologist:
Sarah Davis Emory, 621 Crystal Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29302-2716
On motion of Senator VERDIN, the question was confirmation of Sarah Davis Emory.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Sarah Davis Emory was confirmed.
Having received a favorable report from the Transportation Committee, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:
Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence February 13, 2026, and to expire February 13, 2031
At-Large:
Thomas A. Limehouse, Jr., Esquire, P.O. Box 338, Charleston, SC 29402 VICE William A. Coates
On motion of Senator GROOMS, the question was confirmation of Thomas A. Limehouse, Jr., Esquire.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Goldfinch Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The appointment of Thomas A. Limehouse, Jr., Esquire was confirmed.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator OTT, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Billy W. Huckabee of West Columbia, S.C. Billy retired from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles and served on the Lexington County Recreation Commission for over three decades. He was a faithful member of St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, a lifetime member of Springdale Masonic Lodge No. 412 and a Jamil Shriner for over fifty years. Billy enjoyed umpiring softball games, meeting friends for breakfast, watching NASCAR, fishing, collecting Hot Wheels, camping and spending time with family and friends. He was a devoted Clemson fan and member of IPTAY. Billy lived by example and touched the lives of everyone he encountered. Billy was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.
At 6:36 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 10:00 A.M.
This web page was last updated on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 7:43 P.M.