Senate Journal for 4/30/2026 - South Carolina Legislature Online

South Carolina General Assembly
126th Session, 2025-2026
Journal of the Senate

NO. 62

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

_________

THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2026

Thursday, April 30, 2026
(Statewide Session)

~~Indicates Matter Stricken~~
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:

Exodus 3:5
In Exodus we read that the Lord declared to Moses: " 'Do not come any closer. . .take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.' "
My friends, bow with me as we pray, please: O blessed Lord, we see it in the faces of visitors to this building now and then, those who perhaps come into this Chamber when Senate is not in Session, or individuals or groups gathered upstairs in the Gallery seeing this space for the first time. So often they are indeed overwhelmed by what's before them. And it is a special place, one where for decades men and women serving our State have debated and determined many matters of consequence here in this space. So, as even we who are in attendance here routinely are also aware, this is not just "another room." Rather it is truly "holy ground," if you will. And Lord, to that end we ask You to bless especially all of the women and men who continue to labor on Your behalf here in this special place. In Your wondrous name we pray, O Lord. Amen.

The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.

Call of the Senate

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                   Corbin
Cromer                    Davis                     Devine
Elliott                   Gambrell                  Garrett
Graham                    Grooms                    Hembree
Hutto                     Jackson                   Johnson
Kennedy                   Kimbrell                  Martin
Massey                    Ott                       Peeler
Reichenbach               Rice                      Sabb
Stubbs                    Sutton                    Turner
Verdin                    Walker                    Williams
Young                     Zell

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR

The following appointment was transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:

Statewide Appointment

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:

Antron T. Williams, 1044 Mahogany Lane, Rowesville, SC 29133 VICE Gary J. Coleman

Referred to the Committee on Education.

Doctor of the Day

Senator HUTTO introduced Dr. Laine Way of Sumter, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator BRIGHT, at 11:14 A.M., Senator FERNANDEZ was granted a leave of absence for today.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator SUTTON, at 12:36 P.M., Senator MATTHEWS was granted a leave of absence for today.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator JACKSON, at 12:36 P.M., Senator WALKER was granted a leave of absence for today.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator GRAHAM rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Remarks to be Printed

On motion of Senator BENNETT, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator GRAHAM, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator BENNETT rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator CASH rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator GROOMS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 821 (Word version) Sen. Stubbs
S. 1158 (Word version) Sen. Verdin

RECALLED

S. 1151 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 49-11-500 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE LAKE CONESTEE DAM AUTHORITY; BY ADDING SECTION 49-11-510 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE AUTHORITY; AND BY ADDING SECTION 49-11-520 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DUTIES OF THE AUTHORITY.

Senator CAMPSEN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 3570 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Spann-Wilder, W. Newton, Mitchell, Bowers and Calhoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-100, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND "PUBLIC MEMBER" TO INCLUDE A PERSON NOMINATED AND APPOINTED TO A NONCOMPENSATED PART-TIME POSITION ON A BOARD, COMMISSION, OR COUNCIL; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1100 SO AS TO OUTLINE RESPONSIBILITIES FOR DISCLOSING ECONOMIC INTERESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1110, RELATING TO STATEMENTS OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS, SO AS TO ADDRESS AGENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR FILING DISCLOSURE FORMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1170, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC MEMBER WHO FILES THE INITIAL STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS WITHIN TEN DAYS AFTER NOTICE FROM THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION SHALL NOT BE IN VIOLATION OF CHAPTER 13, TITLE 8; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1356, RELATING TO FILING DEADLINES FOR ECONOMIC INTERESTS STATEMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE WHEN CERTAIN CANDIDATES FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS.

Senator RANKIN 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.

RECALLED

H. 5084 (Word version) -- Reps. Williams, Luck and Scott: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF 6TH STREET IN THE CITY OF HARTSVILLE IN DARLINGTON COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH 5TH STREET TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH EAST HOME AVENUE "SAMUEL L. DAVIS MEMORIAL STREET" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY 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.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 1161 (Word version) -- Senator Climer: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE CLEMSON LIVESTOCK-POULTRY HEALTH UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS QUASQUICENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND THE LIVESTOCK-POULTRY HEALTH COMMISSION FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0668km-vc26.docx

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1162 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 509 OF 1982, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF TRUSTEES OF ANDERSON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SIX MEMBERS OF THE SEVEN-MEMBER GOVERNING BODY MUST BE ELECTED FROM SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS.
lc-0429hdb26.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

S. 1163 (Word version) -- Senators Rice and Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS TO ESTABLISH A PROCESS FOR THE SELECTION AND OVERSIGHT OF FAITHFUL DELEGATES TO AN ARTICLE V AMENDMENT CONVENTION.
sj-0018pb26.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1164 (Word version) -- Senators Rice and Garrett: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CALL FOR AN ARTICLE V CONVENTION OF STATES TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES FOCUSED EXCLUSIVELY ON PROPOSING A FEDERAL FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AMENDMENT; TO PROVIDE FOR STATE ACTION IF CONGRESS DOES NOT RESPOND TO THE CALL; AND TO OFFER CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA AS THE LOCATION FOR THE CONVENTION TO OCCUR.
sj-0020pb-pb26.docx

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1165 (Word version) -- Senators Rice and Garrett: A JOINT RESOLUTION SO AS TO ENACT THE "COMPACT FOR A SAFE AND EQUAL CONVENTION FOR PROPOSING AMENDMENTS".
sj-0019pb26.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1166 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MAY 11 THROUGH MAY 17, 2026, AS "POLICE WEEK IN SOUTH CAROLINA" AND TO HONOR THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY WHILE PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITIES AND SAFEGUARDING DEMOCRACY.
lc-0504dg-gm26.docx

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1167 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, RELATING TO BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5420, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0747wab-dbs26.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1168 (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 PLUMBING CODE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5416, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0748wab-rt26.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1169 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MARION (MORRIS) ANDERSON OF ST. MATTHEWS FOR HIS MANY YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE OF CALHOUN COUNTY, MOST PARTICULARLY THE CITIZENS OF ST. MATTHEWS, AND TO EXTEND BEST WISHES FOR MUCH SUCCESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
lc-0506dg-rm26.docx

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

H. 3371 (Word version) -- Rep. Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-21-2420, RELATING TO ADMISSIONS TAX, SO AS TO EXEMPT ADMISSIONS CHARGED BY CERTAIN NONPROFIT BUSINESS LEAGUES AND CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE.
lc-0004dg25.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

H. 4382 (Word version) -- Rep. Sessions: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-398, RELATING TO THE SALE OF PRODUCTS CONTAINING EPHEDRINE OR PSEUDOEPHEDRINE; SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT MANUFACTURERS OF THESE PRODUCTS PAY MONTHLY FEES ASSOCIATED WITH DATA COLLECTION AND TO ESTABLISH A PENALTY FOR FAILURE OF MANUFACTURERS TO COMPLY.
lc-0238vr25.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 4641 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Gilliam, Wooten, Oremus, Chapman, McCravy, B. Newton, Martin, White, Schuessler, Ford, Jordan, M. M. Smith, Robbins, Gatch, Duncan, Lastinger, Ligon, Hixon and Ballentine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-190, RELATING TO SCHEDULE I CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, SO AS TO ADD KRATOM TO THE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES LISTED IN SCHEDULE I; AND BY REPEALING ARTICLE 20 OF CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA KRATOM CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT.
lc-0352vr26.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 5129 (Word version) -- Reps. J. E. Johnson, Crawford, Guest, Brittain, Atkinson, Hardee, Hayes, McGinnis and Schuessler: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 501 FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH MEDLEN PARKWAY TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH MILL POND ROAD IN THE CITY OF CONWAY IN HORRY COUNTY "CHUCK JORDAN HIGHWAY" AND PLACE APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
lc-0479cm-gt26.docx

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

H. 5216 (Word version) -- Reps. Chapman, Brewer, Sessions, Gagnon, Sanders, Hager, Vaughan, Ligon, M. M. Smith, Kirby and Teeple: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-10-30, RELATING TO THE ADOPTION OF THE 2009 EDITION OF THE ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, SO AS TO LIMIT ITS APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCTION FALLING WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 6-10-40, RELATING TO APPEAL BY LOCAL JURISDICTION FOR VARIANCE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA BUILDING CODES COUNCIL, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT STATEWIDE MODIFICATIONS NOT FALLING WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE MAY BE MADE IN THE SAME MANNER AS OTHER BUILDING CODES.
lc-0199ph26.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 5504 (Word version) -- Reps. Crawford, G. M. Smith, Teeple, C. Mitchell and Bernstein: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "FOREIGN INFLUENCE OPERATIONS OUT OF AMERICAN EDUCATION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-425 SO AS TO PROHIBIT PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING FROM SOLICITING OR ACCEPTING CERTAIN GIFTS OR TRAVEL FROM FOREIGN ADVERSARY NATIONS, FOREIGN PRINCIPALS, OR FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZATIONS, TO RESTRICT FOREIGN INFLUENCE ON HIRING, CURRICULUM, AND CAMPUS ORGANIZATIONS, AND TO REQUIRE DISCLOSURE OF GIFTS AND CONTRACTS FROM FOREIGN COUNTRIES AND FOREIGN PRINCIPALS TO THE OFFICE OF THE STATE TREASURER.
lc-0689wab26.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

H. 5548 (Word version) -- Reps. Martin, Yow, Terribile, T. Moore, Sessions, Guest, Guffey, Lawson, Collins, Pope, Ligon, B. Newton and Neese: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 23 TO TITLE 63 SO AS TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD WELFARE PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING INDIAN CHILDREN; TO GRANT INDIAN TRIBES EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION IN CERTAIN CHILD CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING INDIAN CHILDREN, WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO REQUIRE STATE COURTS AND THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO COMPLY WITH CERTAIN INQUIRIES AND PROCESSES IN CHILD CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING INDIAN CHILDREN; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES; BY ADDING SECTION 63-9-45 SO AS TO MAKE THE SOUTH CAROLINA ADOPTION CODE INAPPLICABLE TO THE ADOPTION OF INDIAN CHILDREN, WITH EXCEPTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-15-302 AND 63-15-306, BOTH RELATING TO CHILD CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
lc-0503vr26.docx

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

H. 5586 (Word version) -- Rep. Hosey: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 278 EAST FROM FEED LOT ROAD TO THE TOWN LIMIT OF FAIRFAX IN ALLENDALE COUNTY THE "HONORABLE DOROTHY S. RILEY HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
lc-0564cm-gt26.docx

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

Senator CROMER from the Committee on Banking and Insurance submitted a favorable report on:

S. 920 (Word version) -- Senators Leber and Blackmon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 TO CHAPTER 71, TITLE 38 SO AS TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT MUST BE CONSIDERED WHEN A HEALTH INSURER USES ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO MAKE DETERMINATIONS RELATING TO PRIOR AUTHORIZATIONS, TO PROVIDE CERTAIN DISCLOSURES TO ENROLLEES, AND TO PROVIDE DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS FOR VIOLATIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable with amendments report on:

H. 4069 (Word version) -- Reps. Sessions, Magnuson and Wickensimer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-327 SO AS TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS PERTAINING TO PATIENT BILLING FOR HEALTH SERVICES AND SUPPLIES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4635 (Word version) -- Rep. B. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-79-60, RELATING TO PHYSICAL FITNESS SERVICE CONTRACTS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE USE OF ELECTRONIC NOTIFICATION FOR AUTOMATIC RENEWAL OF CONTRACTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:

H. 4799 (Word version) -- Reps. Lawson, B.L. Cox, C. Mitchell, Pope, Govan, Lastinger, Caskey, M.M. Smith, Williams, Gilliard and Waters: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-7-170, RELATING TO CERTIFICATE OF NEED EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT VETERANS HOMES OWNED OR OPERATED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS DO NOT REQUIRE A CERTIFICATE OF NEED.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator CROMER from the Committee on Banking and Insurance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4817 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, Herbkersman, Anderson, Bailey, Gatch, Gagnon, Guffey, Hager, Hixon, J.L. Johnson, Kirby, Oremus, Schuessler, C. Mitchell, Pope, M.M. Smith, Ligon, Sessions, White, Williams, Gibson, J.E. Johnson and W. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "INSURANCE RATE REDUCTION AND POLICYHOLDER PROTECTION ACT;" BY AMENDING SECTION 38-3-110, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE, SO AS TO EXPAND THOSE DUTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 38-55-172 SO AS TO PROHIBIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS AND REGISTERED RESIDENTIAL SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS FROM CERTAIN ACTIONS MADE ON BEHALF OF OWNERS OR POSSESSORS OF RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE ON INSURANCE CLAIMS IN CONNECTION WITH ROOFING SYSTEM REPAIRS OR REPLACEMENTS TO PROHIBIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS AND REGISTERED RESIDENTIAL SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS FROM ADVERTISING OR PROMISING TO PAY OR REBATE AN INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLE AS AN INDUCEMENT TO THE SALE OF GOODS OR SERVICES, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, TO PROVIDE THE INSURANCE FRAUD DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE MAY INVESTIGATE CLAIMS OF FRAUDULENT ACTIVITY RELATING TO THE PERFORMANCE OF GOODS OR SERVICES FOR A ROOFING SYSTEM PURSUANT TO A WRITTEN CONTRACT AND REFER CERTAIN FINDINGS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-55-520, RELATING TO THE PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-55-530, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITIONS OF "AUTHORIZED AGENCY" AND "FALSE STATEMENT OR MISREPRESENTATIONS"; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-55-550, RELATING TO CIVIL PENALTIES, SO AS TO PRESCRIBE DUTIES OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-55-560, RELATING TO THE INSURANCE FRAUD DIVISION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE INSURANCE FRAUD DIVISION IN THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AND TO PROVIDE THE DUTIES FOR THE DIVISION, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, AND THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-55-570, RELATING TO NOTIFICATION OF FALSE STATEMENTS OR MISREPRESENTATIONS AND ABILITY TO SHARE INFORMATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE INSURANCE FRAUD DIVISION TO PROSECUTE CRIMINAL VIOLATIONS OF TITLE 38 AND ANY OTHER CRIMES RELATED TO INSURANCE, AS WELL AS DIVISION STAFF REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR INVESTIGATIVE DUTIES OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-55-590, RELATING TO ANNUAL REPORTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE INSURANCE FRAUD DIVISION, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-73-1095, RELATING TO ESSENTIAL PROPERTY INSURANCE AND RATING PLAN FACTORS, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ANY INSURER REQUIRED TO SUBMIT RATES AND RATING PLANS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE RELATED TO ADJUSTMENTS TO REDUCE PREMIUMS AND FOR OWNERS OF INSURABLE PROPERTY CLAIMING A CREDIT OR DISCOUNT; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-75-470, RELATING TO MEMBERSHIP OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR THE DIRECTOR OF INSURANCE, SO AS TO PROVIDE MITIGATION OF PROPERTY LOSSES DUE TO WILDFIRE AMONG THE ISSUES TO BE CONSIDERED AND TO PROVIDE FOR TERMS OF SERVICE FOR ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-75-480, RELATING TO THE LOSS MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR WHEN GRANTS MAY BE GIVEN TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-75-485, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA HURRICANE DAMAGE MITIGATION PROGRAM, SO AS ESTABLISH THE "SC SAFE HOME PROGRAM" AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-122, RELATING TO PROHIBITED FACTORS FOR ISSUING AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE POLICIES OR PREMIUM RATES, SO AS TO ADD UNINSURED AND UNDERINSURED MOTORIST CLAIMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-123, RELATING TO PROHIBITED FACTORS FOR AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE POLICY RENEWALS OR CANCELLATIONS, SO AS TO ADD UNINSURED AND UNDERINSURED MOTORIST CLAIMS; BY ADDING SECTION 38-77-145 SO AS TO PROHIBIT NONECONOMIC DAMAGES FOR PERSONS OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE WHILE KNOWINGLY NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-280, RELATING TO AUTOMOBILE COLLISION AND COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE, SO AS TO REQUIRE INSURERS TO OFFER A ZERO DOLLAR DEDUCTIBLE FOR AUTOMOBILE SAFETY GLASS AND TO PROHIBIT INSURERS FROM CONSIDERING UNINSURED OR UNDERINSURED MOTORISTS CLAIMS FOR CERTAIN INSURANCE POLICY DECISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1620, RELATED TO CATASTROPHE SAVINGS ACCOUNTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE CERTAIN APPROVED RETROFITS TO PRIMARY RESIDENCES FOR HURRICANE OR WIND DAMAGE RESILIENCE, AND FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PROVIDE AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3660, RELATING TO TAX CREDITS FOR HURRICANE RESISTANT RETROFITS TO RESIDENCES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE TAX CREDIT OPTION FROM ONE THOUSAND TO TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3662 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A "DISASTER PREPAREDNESS SALES TAX HOLIDAY" AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3670, RELATED TO TAX CREDITS FOR EXCESS PAID FOR PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE CREDIT AMOUNT TO THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 42-9-440, RELATING TO SUSPECTED FALSE STATEMENTS OR MISREPRESENTATIONS REQUIRED TO BE REPORTED TO THE INSURANCE FRAUD DIVISION, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 40-11-125 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE HAS THE EXCLUSIVE AUTHORITY TO ENFORCE ANY VIOLATIONS RELATED TO INSURANCE OR INSURANCE FRAUD ARISING FROM ROOFING SYSTEMS CONTRACTS OR THE DELIVERY OF GOODS OR SERVICES RELATED TO ROOFING SYSTEMS INVOLVING LICENSEES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONTRACTOR'S LICENSING BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-59-25, RELATING TO ROOFING CONTRACT CANCELLATIONS FOR INSURANCE COVERAGE DENIALS, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN PROVISIONS TRANSFERRED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AND TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-59-27 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AS THE EXCLUSIVE AUTHORITY TO ENFORCE ANY VIOLATIONS RELATED TO INSURANCE OR INSURANCE FRAUD ARISING FROM ROOFING SYSTEMS CONTRACTS OR THE DELIVERY OF GOODS OR SERVICES RELATED TO ROOFING SYSTEMS INVOLVING LICENSEES AND REGISTRANTS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS COMMISSION; TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGARDING THE IMPACT ON INSURANCE RATES AND REQUIRE ANNUAL TESTIMONY BEFORE THE HOUSE LABOR, COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY COMMITTEE AND THE SENATE BANKING AND INSURANCE COMMITTEE; AND TO MAKE CONFORMING OR TECHNICAL CHANGES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Appointments Reported

Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable report on:

Statewide Appointments

The following appointment was referred to the Committee on Education on April 9, 2026, and was inadvertently left out of the journal:
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District Board of Trustees, with the term to commence August 1, 2025, and to expire August 1, 2028
At-Large, Governor Appointee:
Matthew Clayton Tyler, 7550 East Highway 19, Loris, SC 29569 VICE Randall S. Page

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina Arts Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2028
At-Large:
Linda C. Stern, 2134 Bermuda Hills Road, Columbia, SC 29223

Received as information.

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:
William J. Peeler, 325 Murph Road, Pauline, SC 29374 VICE Alton O. Smith, Jr.
Received as information.
Reappointment, Governor's School of Agriculture at John de la Howe School Board of Trustees, with the term to commence April 1, 2025, and to expire April 1, 2030
At-Large:
Robert W. Bagley, 3116 Moffitt Creek Road, Blackstock, SC 29014

Received as information.

Reappointment, Governor's School of Agriculture at John de la Howe School Board of Trustees, with the term to commence April 1, 2023, and to expire April 1, 2028
At-Large:
Ronald M. Davis, 106 Deadfall Road E, Greenwood, SC 29649

Received as information.

Reappointment, Governor's School of Agriculture at John de la Howe School Board of Trustees, with the term to commence April 1, 2023, and to expire April 1, 2028
At-Large:
James Craig Kesler, 1970 Trinity Church Road, Newberry, SC 29108

Referred to the Committee on Education.

Reappointment, Governor's School of Agriculture at John de la Howe School Board of Trustees, with the term to commence April 1, 2026, and to expire April 1, 2031
At-Large:
Edgar T. Lamb, 199 Plum Branch Road, Edgefield, SC 29824-3647

Received as information.

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

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District Board of Trustees, with the term to commence July 1, 2026, and to expire July 1, 2029
South Carolina Association of School Administrators:
Billy R. Strickland, Ph.D., 202 Sweetgum Street, Laurens, SC 29360

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District, with the term to commence May 3, 2024, and to expire May 3, 2027
At-Large, Governor Appointee:
Cynthia C. Mosteller, 574 Needlerush Park, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29646

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District Board of Trustees, with the term to commence August 1, 2023, and to expire August 1, 2026
SC Education Oversight Committee:
Jonathan Butcher, 105 Bridgeton Drive, Greenville, SC 29615

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District Board of Trustees, with the term to commence August 1, 2026, and to expire August 1, 2029
SC Education Oversight Committee:
Jonathan Butcher, 105 Bridgeton Drive, Greenville, SC 29615

Received as information.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District Board of Trustees, with the term to commence July 1, 2023, and to expire July 1, 2026
SC School Boards Association:
Craig Plank, 144 Flint Rock Lane, Blythewood, SC 29016-7222 VICE Kathleen Bounds

Received as information.

Appointments Reported

Senator YOUNG from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services submitted a favorable report on:

Statewide Appointments

Reappointment, South Carolina Foster Care Review Board, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
7th Congressional District:
Felicia B. Miles, Ph.D., 628 Oxbow Dr., Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29579

Received as information.

Reappointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence March 15, 2023, and to expire March 15, 2030
6th Congressional District:
Lori Anderson Bell, P.O. Box 2386, Walterboro, SC 29488

Received as information.

Reappointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence May 15, 2021, and to expire May 15, 2028
4th Congressional District:
Roxzanne B. Breland, 11 Weatherby Court, Greenville, SC 29615

Received as information.

Reappointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence June 30, 2022, and to expire June 30, 2029
2nd Congressional District:
Rhonda J. Presha, 92 Westridge Road, Elgin, SC 29045

Received as information.

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:
Albertha Woodard, P.O. Box 417, Winnsboro, SC 29180 VICE Elouise G. J. Davis

Received as information.
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, 2029
At-Large, Rural:
Gerald D. Henderson, Jr., 286 Minnow Lane, Batesburg, SC 29006 VICE Nikki R. Wooten

Received as information.

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, 2029
At-Large, Rural:
Timothy J. McIlhenny, 120 South Heyward Street, Bishopville, SC 29010 VICE David E. Finley

Received as information.

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:
Shawn T. Pinkston, 184 Scott Street, Charleston, SC 29492-7539

Received as information.

Appointments Reported

Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:

Statewide Appointments

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Board of Podiatry Examiners, with the term to commence December 31, 2022, and to expire December 31, 2026
Central District:
Joseph Moran, DPM, 1730 Heyward Street, Columbia, SC 29205 VICE James Cahill

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Podiatry Examiners, with the term to commence December 31, 2026, and to expire December 31, 2030
Central District:
Joseph Moran, DPM, 1730 Heyward Street, Columbia, SC 29205

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Nursing, with the term to commence December 31, 2026, and to expire December 31, 2030
2nd Congressional District:
Frances C. Pagett, 6143 Marthas Glen Road, Columbia, SC 29209-1312

Received as information.

Reappointment, Donate Life South Carolina, with the term to commence April 1, 2024, and to expire April 1, 2028
Civic Organization:
Abbi Mason, 1126 Ambling Way, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Nursing, with the term to commence December 31, 2026, and to expire December 31, 2030
At-Large, Licensed Practical Nurse:
Melissa May-Engel, 1109 Aderly Oak Drive, Irmo, SC 29063-7892

Received as information.

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

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Nursing, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2028
7th Congressional District, Registered Nurse:
Leslie M. Lyerly, 636 Marsh Pond Road, Johnsonville, SC 29555-6617

Received as information.

Appointments Reported

Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:

Statewide Appointments

Initial Appointment, State Board of Cosmetology, with the term to commence March 20, 2026, and to expire March 20, 2030
Cosmetologist:
Sherrie H. Todd, 7621 Briarwood Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 VICE Adrienne Nichol MacLeod

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina Residential Builders Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
7th Congressional District:
Bryan H. Dowd, 3413 Flowers Road, Florence, SC 29505

Received as information.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority, with the term to commence August 15, 2022, and to expire August 15, 2026
At-Large:
Matthew Zackon, 4897 Datura Rd., Columbia, SC 29205 VICE David Goodall

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority, with the term to commence August 15, 2026, and to expire August 15, 2030
At-Large:
Matthew Zackon, 4897 Datura Rd., Columbia, SC 29205

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., April 30, 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. 150 (Word version) -- Senators Blackmon and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RENTAL KART AGE ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-18-30, RELATING TO APPLICABILITY AND EXCEPTIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA AMUSEMENT RIDES SAFETY CODE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL IS ALLOWED TO OPERATE A RENTAL KART IF THEY ARE EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER OR ARE FIFTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AND HOLD A VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE OR PERMIT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 41-18-40, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA AMUSEMENT PARK RIDES SAFETY CODE, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., April 30, 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. 718 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 45-2-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH AN OPERATOR OF ANY RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK MAY HAVE ANY TRANSIENT GUEST OF THE PARK REMOVED, AND TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR REMOVAL OF THE GUEST.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., April 30, 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. 831 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Jackson, Kimbrell, Sutton and Bennett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 57-1-25 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY AND DEFINE ITS MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-1-360, RELATING TO THE CHIEF INTERNAL AUDITOR, SO AS TO CLARIFY QUALIFICATIONS AND SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-1-370, RELATING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LONG-RANGE STATEWIDE TRANSPORTATION PLAN, SO AS TO MANDATE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DEVELOPING THE PLAN; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-20, RELATING TO RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE DEPUTY SECRETARIES; BY ADDING SECTION 57-3-205 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO ENTER INTO PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-3-615, RELATING TO HIGHWAY TOLLS AND USAGE, SO AS TO ALLOW THE IMPOSITION OF TOLLS IN CERTAIN SITUATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 57-3-790 SO AS TO WAIVE THE STATE'S IMMUNITY; BY ADDING SECTION 57-3-800 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO ENTER INTO RECIPROCAL AGREEMENTS WITH OTHERS TO ENFORCE TOLL VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-820, RELATING TO THE CONSENT OF A MUNICIPALITY TO WORK ON STATE HIGHWAYS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CANCELLATION OF PROJECTS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-830, RELATING TO THE ASSENT OF MUNICIPALITY TO PLANS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT COSTS CAUSED BY AN UNREASONABLE DELAY ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MUNICIPALITY; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-105 SO AS TO IDENTIFY AND TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OF NON-ESSENTIAL ROADS TO THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-1085 SO AS TO IMPOSE FEES ON NEW DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN THE STATE IN ORDER TO MITIGATE CONGESTION CAUSED BY ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1320, RELATING TO TURNPIKE PROJECT DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE NONTAX REVENUES OR OTHER LEGALLY AVAILABLE FUNDS AS A SOURCE FOR FUNDING TURNPIKE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1330, RELATING TO GENERAL POWERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO CONTRACT WITH OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS IN DESIGNATING, ESTABLISHING, PLANNING, ABANDONING, FINANCING, IMPROVING, CONSTRUCTING, MAINTAINING, AND REGULATING TURNPIKE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1335, RELATING TO THE FEASIBILITY STUDIES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO COMPLETE A FEASIBILITY STUDY PRIOR TO A BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION QUALIFYING AS TURNPIKE FACILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1340, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL POWERS OF THE DEPARTMENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1350, RELATING TO A REQUEST FOR AN ISSUANCE OF TURNPIKE BONDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1360, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY AUTHORITY UPON RECEIPT OF REQUEST, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RESOLUTION APPROVING ANY PROPOSED TURNPIKE BONDS MAY NOT BE ADOPTED UNLESS THE STATE BOARD CONDUCTS A HEARING BEFORE APPROVAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1380, RELATING TO TURNPIKE REVENUE PLEDGED FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT TURNPIKE BONDS ISSUED BY THIS ARTICLE DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN INDEBTEDNESS OF THE STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1390, RELATING TO BOND INTEREST, MATURITY, AND REDEMPTION, SO AS TO UPDATE TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1400, RELATING TO THE SALE OF BONDS AND EXPENSES INCIDENT TO SALE, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1410, RELATING TO THE EXECUTION OF BONDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1420, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION OF BOND PROCEEDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROCEEDS DERIVED FROM THE SALE OF TURNPIKE BONDS MUST BE APPLIED ONLY TO THE PURPOSES AUTHORIZED BY THIS ARTICLE AND PROVIDED IN THE BOND RESOLUTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1430, RELATING TO DENOMINATIONS OF TURNPIKE BONDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TURNPIKE BONDS MUST EACH BE IN THE DENOMINATION OF ONE THOUSAND OR FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS OR SOME MULTIPLE THEREOF OR SUCH LARGER DENOMINATIONS AS MAY BE AUTHORIZED BY THE AUTHORITY IN THE BOND RESOLUTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1440, RELATING TO THE FORM OF BONDS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT TURNPIKE BONDS ISSUED PURSUANT TO THIS ARTICLE MAY BE IN THE FORM OF NEGOTIABLE COUPON BONDS, PAYABLE TO BEARER; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1450, RELATING TO THE RESOLUTION TO ISSUE BONDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT AND THE AUTHORITY MAY RELY ON THE WORK PRODUCT OF THIRD-PARTY PROFESSIONALS TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL, FEASIBILITY, OR PRACTICABILITY STUDIES RELATED TO THE TURNPIKE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1460, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE STATE TREASURER UPON RECEIPT OF THE BOND RESOLUTION, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1480, RELATING TO THE PROVISION THAT IT IS LAWFUL FOR FIDUCIARIES AND SINKING FUND COMMISSIONS TO INVEST IN TURNPIKE BONDS; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1490, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO PAY TOLLS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-5-1495, RELATING TO THE COLLECTION OF TOLLS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTRONIC TOLL COLLECTION SYSTEM" AND ADD THAT A CERTIFICATE THAT A TOLL VIOLATION HAS OCCURRED BASED UPON ELECTRONIC MEANS IS PRIMA FACIE EVIDENCE OF THE VIOLATION; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-1710 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO USE PHASED DESIGN-BUILD AS A PROJECT DELIVERY METHOD AND PROSCRIBE THE PROCEDURE FOR ENTERING INTO A PHASED DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACT; BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-1720 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO AWARD HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS USING A CONSTRUCTION MANAGER/GENERAL CONTRACTOR PROCEDURE; BY AMENDING SECTION 57-11-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO STATE HIGHWAY BONDS, SO AS TO DEFINE "ALTERNATIVE FUEL FEES"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-645, RELATING TO ALTERNATIVE FUEL FEES FOR VEHICLES POWERED BY ELECTRICITY, HYDROGEN, AND FUELS OTHER THAN MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO INCREASE FEES, PROVIDE FOR ADJUSTMENT OF THE FEES, AND TO CREDIT THE FEES TO THE STATE HIGHWAY FUND; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-43-140, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE BANK, SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION AS AN EX OFFICIO MEMBER; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-35-710, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO INCLUDE AN EXEMPTION FOR THE PURCHASE AND MANAGEMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BY THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION; BY ADDING SECTION 12-28-315 SO AS TO PRESCRIBE A USER FEE ON ELECTRICITY CONSUMED WHEN USING A PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2740, RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF A GASOLINE USER FEE AMONG COUNTIES, REQUIREMENTS FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS, AND COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEES AND PROCEDURES FOR USING "C" FUNDS REVENUES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-28-2920, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION OF TOLL ROADS, SO AS TO DEFINE HOW FUNDS DERIVED FROM TOLLS MAY BE USED.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator GROOMS, the Senate agreed to waive the provisions of Rule 32A requiring the Bill to be printed on the Calendar.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.

S.831--SENATE INSISTS ON THEIR AMENDMENTS
CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED

On motion of Senator GROOMS, the Senate insisted upon its amendments to S. 831 and asked for a Committee of Conference.

Whereupon, Senators GROOMS, BENNETT and WALKER were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Recorded Vote

Senators BRIGHT, CORBIN, CASH, STUBBS and KENNDY desired to be recorded as voting against the motion to insist.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., April 30, 2026

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon the amendments proposed by the House to:

H. 3924 (Word version) -- Reps. Wooten, W. Newton, Erickson, Neese, Hager, Bannister, Herbkersman, M.M. Smith, Pedalino, C. Mitchell, Bustos, Lawson, Guffey, Hiott, Taylor, Ballentine, Vaughan, White, Long, Ligon, Guest, Gilliam, Hartnett, Bailey, Landing, B.J. Cox, Hayes, Atkinson, Willis, Lowe, T. Moore, Davis, Hixon, Martin, Pope, Henderson-Myers and Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 56 TO TITLE 46 SO AS TO REGULATE THE SALE OF HEMP-DERIVED CONSUMABLES, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
asks for a Committee of Conference, and has appointed Reps. W. Newton, Jordan and Wetmore to the committee on the part of the House.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

H. 3924 --CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED

Whereupon, Senators MASSEY, JOHNSON, and OTT were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

HOUSE CONCURRENCE

S. 1108 (Word version) -- Senator Rankin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF FRED NASH BOULEVARD FROM ITS NORTH END TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH HARRELSON BOULEVARD IN HORRY COUNTY "CORNELIA BRIGHAM INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

HOUSE CONCURRENCE

S. 1154 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR HORACE MAXIE BURTON FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL MUSICAL CAREER SPANNING SIXTY-FIVE YEARS.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:

S. 385 (Word version) -- Senators Devine, Walker, Zell, Jackson, Tedder, Garrett, Allen, Sabb, Matthews and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "WOMEN'S CHILDBIRTH ALTERNATIVES, RESOURCES, AND EDUCATION (CARE) ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 21, CHAPTER 13 TO TITLE 24 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PREGNANCY TESTING OF CERTAIN WOMEN AFTER ADMISSION TO CERTAIN INCARCERATION FACILITIES, THE SUPERVISED PREINCARCERATION PROBATION OF PREGNANT WOMEN UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, THE SELF SURRENDER OF WOMEN SERVING PREINCARCERATION TERMS OF PROBATION TWELVE WEEKS AFTER THE BIRTH OF THEIR CHILDREN, CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO SURRENDER, PROCEDURES FOR WOMEN TO FOLLOW IF THEY LOSE THEIR PREGNANCIES WHILE ON PREINCARCERATION PROBATION, AND CERTAIN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

S. 822 (Word version) -- Senators Corbin, Garrett, Young, Turner and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-7-80 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATING TO REAL ESTATE FRAUD AND CREATE THE FELONY OF DEED THEFT.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
CARRIED OVER

S. 371 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson, Davis, Graham and Ott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-560 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY ISSUE MOBILE DRIVERS' LICENSES AND MOBILE SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-190, RELATING TO REQUIRING DRIVERS' LICENSES TO BE CARRIED AND EXHIBITED ON DEMAND, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CARRYING AND EXHIBITING OF MOBILE DRIVERS' LICENSES.

The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.

The Committee on Transportation proposed the following amendment (SR-371.KM0004S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Chapter 1, Title 56 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:

Section 56-1-560. (A) The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue a digital driver's license, beginner's permit, or identification card of any type or class to individuals who meet the requirements of this title, provided the digital credential conforms with the most recent standards of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators and the International Organization for Standardization, the applicability of which is determined by the department.

(B) A digital credential issued by the department is a valid and lawful credential equivalent to a printed credential for all purposes authorized by law. However, acceptance of a digital credential is at the discretion of the person, business, or governmental entity to whom the credential is presented, and nothing in this section or Section 56-1-190 shall be construed to require acceptance of a digital credential in lieu of a printed credential. In any instance in which a digital credential is accepted as an alternative to a printed credential, verification of a digital credential must be performed electronically as prescribed by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators and the International Organization for Standardization. The digital credential must be configured so that it does not require the verifying party to hold or otherwise handle the licensee's mobile device.

(C) If a digital credential cannot be immediately verified by a law enforcement officer, then the driver is subject to the provisions of Section 56-1-190. No person is compelled to release an electronic device to a law enforcement officer.

(D) Information contained or stored in a mobile electronic device presented pursuant to this section is not subject to a search by a law enforcement officer except pursuant to the provisions of Section 17-13-140 providing for the issuance, execution, and return of a search warrant, or pursuant to the express consent of the lawful owner of the device. This subsection must not be construed to relieve a motor vehicle operator of the requirement to present a valid printed driver's license upon demand of a law enforcement officer.

SECTION 2. Section 56-1-190 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:

Section 56-1-190. A licensee shall have his printed license in his immediate possession at all times when operating a motor vehicle and shall display it upon demand of an officer or agent of either the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Department of Public Safety or a law enforcement officer of the State. No points pursuant to Section 56-1-720 may be assessed. No points for insurance merit rating system and recoupment purposes may be assessed.

SECTION 3. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator GROOMS explained the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

On motion of Senator GROOMS, the Bill was carried over.

ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 3259 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Gilliam, Lawson, Chapman, Pedalino, McCravy, M.M. Smith, Davis, Holman, B.L. Cox, Ligon and Gibson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 38-77-128 SO AS TO PROHIBIT INSURERS OR AGENTS FROM CONSIDERING THE WORK-RELATED DRIVING RECORD OF A FIRST RESPONDER IN DETERMINING THE PREMIUM RATE FOR THE FIRST RESPONDER'S PERSONAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE POLICY.

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered sent to the House:

S. 717 (Word version) -- Senators Garrett, Sabb, Verdin and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "MOTHERS AND PREBORNS ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 44-37-80 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFICE OF THE HEALTHY NEWBORN OMBUDSMAN IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DUTIES AND AUTHORITY OF THE OMBUDSMAN; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-41-340, RELATING TO THE PUBLICATION OF MATERIALS REGARDING AVAILABLE ASSISTANCE CONCERNING PREGNANCY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE BROCHURE OR OTHER WRITTEN MATERIALS PROVIDED FOR IN SECTION 44-37-80 ARE INCLUDED IN THE MATERIALS PROVIDED TO A PREGNANT WOMAN PRIOR TO AN ABORTION.

HOUSE BILLS RETURNED

The following Bills were read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.

H. 3195 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Pope, Pedalino, Chumley, Taylor, Erickson, Bradley, Hixon, Ligon, Weeks, Oremus, Hartz, Williams, Luck, Gilliard, Rivers and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-10, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN MANDATORY MINIMUM PERIODS FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND OUTDOOR RECESS IN FOUR-YEAR-OLD KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE EACH YEAR IN ADDITION TO OTHER CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE RECESS PERIODS MUST BE HELD INDOORS DURING TIMES OF INCLEMENT WEATHER; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-30, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITY DIRECTORS AND VOLUNTEERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND TO REDESIGNATE ARTICLE 1 OF CHAPTER 10, TITLE 59 AS "PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ACTIVITY."

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.

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.

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 OTT, the Bill was carried over.

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.

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 ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Bills were read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, were ordered that the titles be changed to that of Acts and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 3020 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford, C. Mitchell, Pedalino, Taylor, Grant, Atkinson, King and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-1-40 AND 63-19-20, BOTH RELATING TO STATUS OFFENSES, SO AS TO ELIMINATE PLAYING A PINBALL MACHINE AS A STATUS OFFENSE; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 63-19-2430 RELATING TO THE PLAYING OF PINBALL MACHINES BY A MINOR.

H. 3285 (Word version) -- Reps. Landing, Spann-Wilder, Garvin, Cobb-Hunter, Henderson-Myers, Hartnett, Bustos, J.L. Johnson, Teeple, Wickensimer, M.M. Smith, Davis, Holman, Waters, Rivers and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-57 SO AS TO PROVIDE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE CONTINUING LAW ENFORCEMENT EDUCATION CREDITS IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-61-80, RELATING TO EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN TRAINING PROGRAM MUST INCLUDE COURSES IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER.

H. 4720 (Word version) -- Reps. Rose, McCravy, C. Mitchell, Yow, Reese and Rivers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 17-22-50 AND 17-22-60, BOTH RELATING TO PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY, BOTH SO AS TO PROVIDE A PERSON MAY PARTICIPATE IN A PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAM IF TWENTY YEARS HAVE PASSED SINCE THE DATE OF SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF A PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAM BY THE PERSON, RATHER THAN LIMITING ELIGIBILITY OF PARTICIPATION TO ONLY ONCE.

HOUSE BILLS RETURNED

The following Bills were read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 3022 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Guest, Kirby and W. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 43-21-130, RELATING TO THE LONG-TERM CARE COUNCIL, SO AS TO CORRECT REFERENCES TO CERTAIN AGENCIES WITH MEMBERSHIP ON THE COUNCIL; BY AMENDING SECTION 43-21-140, RELATING TO THE PURPOSE AND DUTIES OF COUNCIL, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SHARING OF DATA WITH MEMBER AGENCIES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

H. 3842 (Word version) -- Reps. Lowe, Willis, Caskey, Wooten, Rose, Huff, Sanders and Duncan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-45-285 SO AS TO PROVIDE PHYSICAL THERAPISTS MAY CERTIFY THAT AN INDIVIDUAL IS HANDICAPPED AND DECLARE THAT THE HANDICAP IS TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE INDIVIDUAL'S APPLICATION FOR A HANDICAPPED PLACARD.

ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 4249 (Word version) -- Rep. Erickson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-1538, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS OF EMERGENCY SCENE MANAGEMENT, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, PROVIDE DRIVERS SHALL ENSURE THEIR VEHICLES ARE KEPT UNDER CONTROL WHEN APPROACHING OR PASSING OTHER MOTOR VEHICLES STOPPED ON OR NEAR THE RIGHT OF WAY OF STREETS OR HIGHWAYS, TO PROVIDE PERSONS DRIVING VEHICLES APPROACHING OTHER STATIONARY VEHICLES DISPLAYING FLASHING HAZARD LIGHTS SHALL REDUCE THEIR SPEED, YIELD THE RIGHT OF WAY, AND MAINTAIN SAFE SPEEDS WHEN CHANGING LANES IS UNSAFE, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 5131 (Word version) -- Reps. Hartnett, M.M. Smith and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-780, RELATING TO PERMANENT LICENSE PLATES AND FEES FOR VEHICLES OF STATE POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS, SO AS TO CREATE A PERMANENT LICENSE PLATE FOR TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS LOCATED IN THE STATE.

CARRIED OVER

H. 5179 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, McGinnis, Garvin, Grant, Yow, C. Mitchell, Wooten and King: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-440 SO AS TO CREATE THE SCHOOL MAPPING DATA PROGRAM WITHIN THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING EFFICIENT EMERGENCY RESPONSES IN PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING BY PUBLIC SAFETY AGENCIES, TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROGRAM AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION BY THE DIVISION, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.

On motion of Senator ELLIOTT, the Bill was carried over.

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 5205 (Word version) -- Reps. McGinnis, Erickson, Grant, Spann-Wilder and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 TO CHAPTER 101, TITLE 59 SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH PUBLIC COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY, AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE IN THIS STATE TO IMPLEMENT A SAFETY TRAINING PROGRAM FOR ALL NEW STUDENTS, TO PROVIDE EXCLUSIONS FROM THE PROGRAMS, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS OF THE PROGRAMS, TO REQUIRE EACH INSTITUTION TO COMPILE AND ANNUALLY REPORT CERTAIN CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS, AMONG OTHER THINGS, TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE ENFORCEMENT MECHANISMS.

ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Bill was read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 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.

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

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.

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

The following Resolutions were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:

S. 936 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Young, Garrett, Stubbs, Martin, Johnson, Hembree, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Bennett, Blackmon, Climer, Grooms, Campsen, Cromer, Turner, Sutton, Kennedy, Walker, Tedder, Williams, Rankin, Hutto, Cash, Graham and Alexander: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO AFFIRM THE COMMITMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO SECURING SOUTH CAROLINA'S ROLE AS THE NATION'S PREMIER HOST FOR A NUCLEAR LIFECYCLE INNOVATION CAMPUS; TO RECOGNIZE SOUTH CAROLINA'S UNMATCHED LEADERSHIP IN NUCLEAR ENERGY, NATIONAL SECURITY, AND ADVANCED MANUFACTURING; AND TO DIRECT A UNIFIED, COMPETITIVE STATE RESPONSE TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY'S REQUEST FOR INFORMATION.

RECORDED VOTE

Senator BRIGHT desired to be recorded as abstaining on third reading of the Resolution.

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.

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 3034 (Word version) -- Reps. Collins, Wooten, C. Mitchell, Pope, Chapman, Pedalino, Yow, M.M. Smith, Davis, Holman, B.L. Cox, Hixon, Gagnon, Calhoon, Moss, Lawson, Kirby, Ligon, Bailey, Forrest, Gilliam, Willis, Erickson, Schuessler, Vaughan, Bradley, Hager, Whitmire, Robbins, T. Moore, Brewer, Guffey, Martin, J.L. Johnson, Haddon, Wickensimer, Brittain, Kilmartin, D. Mitchell, Cromer, Bowers, Landing, White, W. Newton, J.E. Johnson and B. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "FARGO'S, HYCO'S, RICO'S, COBA'S, WICK'S, AND MIKKA'S LAW" BY AMENDING ARTICLE 11 OF CHAPTER 3, TITLE 47, RELATING TO TAUNTING, TORMENTING, INJURING, OR KILLING POLICE DOGS OR HORSES, SO AS TO EXPAND THE CONDUCT THAT RESULTS IN A VIOLATION, INCREASE THE PENALTIES, REQUIRE RESTITUTION TO THE LAW ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT OR AGENCY, AND MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES.

RECOMMITTED

S. 446 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Elliott and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "ELECTRIC RATE STABILIZATION ACT"; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 24 TO CHAPTER 27, TITLE 58, SO AS TO ALLOW ELECTRIC UTILITIES TO REQUEST THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO ADJUST THEIR RATES ANNUALLY, ADJUST UTILITY RATES, ESTABLISH THE BASELINE RATE ORDER AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ADJUSTMENTS IN RATES, PROVIDE PROTECTIONS FOR CUSTOMERS, AND AUTHORIZE AN ADDITIONAL ELECTRIC UTILITY POSITION FOR THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF.

On motion of Senator RANKIN, the Bill was recommitted to Committee on Judiciary.

OBJECTION

S. 99 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews, Tedder and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 22 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 16 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR PERSONS WHO COMMIT CERTAIN DELINEATED CRIMES WHEN THE VICTIM WAS INTENTIONALLY SELECTED BASED ON CERTAIN FACTORS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT VICTIMS OF A VIOLATION OF THE ARTICLE MAY BRING A CIVIL ACTION FOR DAMAGES SUSTAINED.

Senator MASSEY objected to consideration of the Bill.

CARRIED OVER

H. 3569 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Pope, Davis, Cobb-Hunter, Wetmore, Henderson-Myers, Erickson, Rivers and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-40-350 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTIAL TENANTS WHO ARE VICTIMS OF CERTAIN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENSES MAY TERMINATE A RENTAL AGREEMENT AND TO PROVIDE FOR NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS.

On motion of Senator YOUNG, the Bill was carried over.

CARRIED OVER

S. 983 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott, Ott, Devine, Zell, Sutton, Turner and Allen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 30-2-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT EVICTION FILINGS AND RECORDS THAT INCLUDE PERSONAL INFORMATION OF A DEFENDANT ARE AUTOMATICALLY REMOVED FROM THE PUBLIC INDEX AFTER FIVE YEARS IF NO SUBSEQUENT EVICTIONS OR EJECTMENTS HAVE OCCURRED.

On motion of Senator ELLIOTT, the Bill was carried over.

CARRIED OVER

H. 4189--Reps. Davis and Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES TO THE RESTRUCTURING PROVIDED BY ACT 60 OF 2023; AND BY REPEALING SECTIONS 44-1-30, 44-1-40, 44-1-50, 44-3-110, 44-3-120, 44-3-130, 44-3-140, 44-7-310, 44-11-30, 44-11-40, 44-55-1320, 44-55-1330, 44-55-1350, 44-55-1360, 59-111-510, 59-111-520, 59-111-530, 59-111-540, 59-111-550, 59-111-560, 59-111-570, AND 59-111-580 ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL. (Abbreviated title)

On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the Bill was carried over.

READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 3949 (Word version) -- Reps. King, Duncan and Garvin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-614 SO AS TO DESIGNATE "DUM SPIRO SPERO" TRANSLATED AS "WHILE I BREATHE, I HOPE" AS THE OFFICIAL CHORAL ANTHEM OF THE STATE.

The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.

Senator ADAMS explained the Bill.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 42; Nays 0

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Blackmon                  Bright
Campsen                   Cash                      Chaplin
Climer                    Corbin                    Cromer
Davis                     Devine                    Elliott
Gambrell                  Garrett                   Graham
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Jackson                   Johnson                   Kennedy
Kimbrell                  Leber                     Martin
Massey                    Ott                       Peeler
Rankin                    Reichenbach               Rice
Sabb                      Stubbs                    Sutton
Tedder                    Turner                    Verdin
Williams                  Young                     Zell

Total--42

NAYS

Total--0

The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 5168 (Word version) -- Reps. C. Mitchell and Yow: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-687 SO AS TO DESIGNATE "CAROLINA WHEN I DIE" BY PATRICK DAVIS AS AN OFFICIAL STATE SONG.

The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.

Senator ADAMS explained the Bill.

Senator HUTTO spoke on the Bill.

Senator GRAHAM spoke on the Bill.

Remarks to be Printed

On motion of Senator OTT, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator GRAHAM, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 40; Nays 2

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Blackmon                  Campsen
Cash                      Chaplin                   Climer
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Devine                    Elliott                   Gambrell
Garrett                   Graham                    Grooms
Hembree                   Hutto                     Jackson
Johnson                   Kimbrell                  Leber
Martin                    Massey                    Ott
Peeler                    Rankin                    Reichenbach
Rice                      Sabb                      Stubbs
Sutton                    Tedder                    Turner
Verdin                    Williams                  Young
Zell

Total--40

NAYS

Bright                    Kennedy

Total--2

The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

OBJECTION

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.

Senator SABB objected to consideration of the Bill.

CARRIED OVER

H. 4000 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Stavrinakis, B.L. Cox, Davis, Wetmore, Bustos, Teeple, Holman, Spann-Wilder, Kirby, Robbins, Landing, Hartnett, Brewer, Gilliard, Gatch, J. Moore, T. Moore, Murphy, W. Newton, Duncan and Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-100, RELATING TO THE PERSONS ENTITLED TO BE LICENSEES OR PERMITTEES, SO AS TO ADD PERFORMING ARTS AND CONVENTION COMPLEXES; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-515, RELATING TO THE PERMIT FOR PURCHASE AND SALE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO ADD PERFORMING ARTS AND CONVENTION COMPLEXES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-2016, RELATING TO THE BIENNIAL LICENSE FOR PURCHASE AND SALE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO ADD PERFORMING ARTS AND CONVENTION COMPLEXES.

On motion of Senator JOHNSON, the Bill was carried over.

OBJECTION

H. 4544 (Word version) -- Reps. Jordan, W. Newton, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox and Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-32-220, RELATING TO NONECONOMIC DAMAGES LIMIT AND EXCEPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR INTENT TO HARM, FELONY CONVICTIONS, AND INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-78-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE TORT CLAIMS ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MEANING OF "OCCURRENCE"; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-78-120, RELATING TO LIMITATION ON LIABILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THE LIMITATIONS MUST BE INCREASED OR DECREASED; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-180, RELATING TO LIMITED LIABILITY OF CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.

Senator KIMBRELL objected to consideration of the Bill.

CARRIED OVER

H. 4670 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, C. Mitchell and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 15-1-350 SO AS TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR DEMANDS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, BODILY INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR WRONGFUL DEATH.

On motion of Senator GARRETT, the Bill was carried over.

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 4248 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman, Bradley, Erickson, Hixon, Pope, Hewitt, Cobb-Hunter, Forrest, M.M. Smith, Hartnett, Luck, Gilliard, Rivers, W. Newton, Guest, J. Moore and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 39-25-220 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT ALL SHRIMP AND SHRIMP PRODUCTS SOLD IN THIS STATE HAVE A LABEL NOTING THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN OF THE SHRIMP.

The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.

Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SR-4248.CEM0001S), which was ruled out order:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 39-5-39 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:

Section 39-5-39. (A) Advertising shall be deemed false, deceptive, or misleading if it:

(1) contains any statement, implication, or inference that guarantees, assures, or promises a particular outcome, recovery, verdict, settlement amount, or success rate;

(2) suggests that past results, case outcomes, or client recoveries are indicative of future results, unless accompanied by a clear and prominent statement that prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome; or

(3) uses superlative, comparative, or predictive language that cannot be substantiated and that would reasonably lead a prospective client to expect results that are not typical or reasonably achievable.

(B) Notwithstanding another provision of law, it is an unlawful trade practice, pursuant to Section 39-5-20, for ~~an attorney~~a person or entity, including a third-party generator or referral service, to create, sponsor, finance, or disseminate advertising for legal ~~to advertise his~~ services in this State in a false, deceptive, or misleading manner including, but not limited to, the use of a nickname that creates an unreasonable expectation of results.

(C)(1) Any advertising for legal services, in whatever form or medium, that references, depicts, or states a specific dollar amount of a settlement, verdict, judgment, or recovery obtained on behalf of a client must clearly and conspicuously disclose, in close proximity and in a similar size to the referenced dollar amount, the amount or percentage of attorney fees deducted from the recovery and the amount of litigation costs or expenses deducted from the recovery.

(2) Such advertising for legal services must also disclose, in a clear and prominent manner, that the referenced result is not representative of all cases and that outcomes depend on the specific facts and legal circumstances of each matter.

(D) Any advertising for legal services, in whatever form or medium, that references, depicts, or states that the filing of a lawsuit or legal claim or suggesting that the lawsuit or claim is against an insurance company or other third party must disclose clearly and conspicuously, in close proximity and in a similar size, the following disclosure or substantially similar language: "Any lawsuit would be filed against an individual or business that would be named as the defendant and that the insurance company is only providing the coverage on behalf of the named individual or business based on a policy purchased by the individual or business."

(E) Any advertising for legal services, in whatever form or medium, must disclose clearly and conspicuously, in close proximity and in a similar size, the identity of the attorney or law firm that will be primarily responsible for the client's representation or a clear explanation of how the matter will be referred to an attorney or law firm.

(F) A violation of subsections (C), (D), or (E) constitutes an unfair trade practice enforceable exclusively by the Department of Consumer Affairs who shall seek both monetary and injunctive relief.

(G) A violation of this section does not create any private cause of action for a violation of this section.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Point of Order

Senator CAMPSEN raised a Point of Order under Rule 24A that the amendment was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the Bill.

Senator BENNETT spoke on the Point of Order.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

The amendment was ruled out of order.

Senators JOHNSON, VERDIN, GOLDFINCH, ELLIOTT, OTT, and CAMPSEN proposed the following amendment (SR-4248.CEM0005S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 39-25-220(A), (B), and (C) and inserting:
(A) A person may not sell raw shrimp or shrimp products in this State unless it contains a label clearly and conspicuously noting the country of origin of the shrimp.

(B) All ~~commercial~~ food service establishments ~~in this State~~, including but not limited to a restaurant, cafeteria, food stand, saloon, tavern, bar, lounge, or other similar facility engaged in the business of selling ready-to-eat food to the public shall not advertise or otherwise make claims to serve "local shrimp" unless the shrimp served has been harvested from the waters of South Carolina. Any display of this information must be included on a menu or in a prominent and publicly visible location within the food service establishment ~~that serve shrimp or shrimp products must clearly and conspicuously display on their menus the country of origin of the shrimp~~.

(C) A violation of this section is a prohibited act pursuant to Section 39-25-30 and subject to penalties pursuant to Section 39-25-50.

(D) A food service establishment shall not be liable for a violation of this section if it in good faith relied upon a wholesaler in determining the origin of the shrimp.

(F) A retailer shall not be liable for a violation of subsection (A) except in such circumstances as the retailer is also the manufacturer of the product.

Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 2 and inserting:
SECTION 2. This act takes effect one hundred-twenty days after approval by the Governor.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 42; Nays 0

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Blackmon                  Bright
Campsen                   Cash                      Chaplin
Climer                    Corbin                    Cromer
Davis                     Devine                    Elliott
Gambrell                  Garrett                   Graham
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Jackson                   Johnson                   Kennedy
Kimbrell                  Leber                     Martin
Massey                    Ott                       Peeler
Rankin                    Reichenbach               Rice
Sabb                      Stubbs                    Sutton
Tedder                    Turner                    Verdin
Williams                  Young                     Zell

Total--42

NAYS

Total--0

There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 4270 (Word version) -- Reps. Schuessler, B.J. Cox, McGinnis, Yow, Jones, Vaughan, Kirby, Dillard, Wetmore, Bauer, Collins, Wickensimer, Brewer, Gilliard, Bernstein, Bannister, Willis, J.L. Johnson, Guest, King, Chapman, Herbkersman, Bradley, Brittain, Burns, Martin, Calhoon, Lowe, C. Mitchell, Oremus, Atkinson, Sessions, Haddon, Waters, Rivers, Scott and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 60-2-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN PUBLIC RECORDS.

The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.

Senator JOHNSON proposed the following amendment (SJ-4270.MB0006S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 30-2-60 and inserting:
Section 30-2-60. Eviction filings and records made pursuant to Section 27-40-10 or 27-37-10, including those concluded by Orders of Eviction or Writ of Ejectment, cases resolved by settlement, or resolved by subsequent payment for the judgment that satisfied any debt that includes personal information of a defendant, must be removed from the public index and any publicly accessible files available for public record ~~five~~ seven years after the final disposition or filing if no ~~disposition~~ additional filing is recorded. ~~Court records more than five years old must be automatically removed from public index records specified herein.~~ For the purposes of this section, court records more than seven years old upon the effective date shall be removed provided there are no additional filings during the previous seven years.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 38; Nays 4

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Blackmon                  Campsen
Chaplin                   Climer                    Cromer
Davis                     Devine                    Elliott
Gambrell                  Garrett                   Graham
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Jackson                   Johnson                   Kennedy
Kimbrell                  Leber                     Martin
Ott                       Peeler                    Rankin
Reichenbach               Rice                      Sabb
Stubbs                    Sutton                    Tedder
Turner                    Verdin                    Williams
Young                     Zell

Total--38

NAYS

Bright                    Cash                      Corbin
Massey

Total--4

There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

CARRIED OVER

H. 5069 (Word version) -- Reps. T. Moore, Bradley, Wooten, Brittain, Bernstein, Holman, Ford, Wetmore, Stavrinakis, B. Newton, Rivers, Anderson, Kirby, McDaniel, Caskey, Erickson, Reese, Chapman, Govan, Yow, Bustos, Martin, Sessions, Gatch, M.M. Smith, D. Mitchell, Guest, Neese, Pedalino, Bauer, W. Newton, Gilreath, Gilliam, Luck, Pope, Ligon, Cox, J.L. Johnson, Guffey, Bowers, Jordan, Collins, Duncan, Teeple, Lawson, Sanders, Montgomery, Ballentine, Brewer, Gagnon, Haddon, Hartnett, Hartz, Herbkersman, Hiott, Hixon, Jones, Lowe, Robbins, Cromer, Oremus, Davis, Gilliard, Gibson, McCravy and C. Mitchell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 61 TO TITLE 48 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE "SOUTH CAROLINA PROTECTED LANDS AND CONSERVATION COORDINATION ACT"; TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; TO RECOGNIZE CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES AS AN IMPORTANT STATE INTEREST; TO ESTABLISH A STATEWIDE PROTECTED LAND BENCHMARK; AND TO PROVIDE FOR COORDINATION OF LAND PROTECTION PROJECTS AND ANNUAL REPORTING TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 5506 (Word version) -- Reps. Jordan, Williams, Atkinson, Kirby and Lowe: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 55-11-620, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE PEE DEE REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY, ITS MEMBERS, THEIR TERMS, AUTHORITY, VACANCIES, AND COMPENSATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE MEMBERS OF THE PEE DEE REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR UPON THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS.

The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.

Senator REICHENBACH proposed the following amendment (LC-5506.DG0002S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Section 55-11-630 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:

(14) maintain a perpetual exemption from the imposition or assessment of any stormwater fee, charge, assessment, or similar exaction, whether characterized as a fee or a tax, relating to stormwater runoff, imposed at any time by any state, county, or municipal governmental entity, or by any private contractor or third party acting on behalf of, or under authority of, such governmental entities.

SECTION X. Section 55-11-640(E) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:

(E) All fines and forfeitures collected under the provisions of this article must be forwarded to the authority to be credited to the general operating fund of the county where the final disposition of the case is made All fines and forfeitures collected pursuant to the provisions of this section must be forwarded weekly to the Pee Dee Regional Airport District by the enforcing court for deposit in the general operating fund of the district.

SECTION X. Chapter 11, Title 55 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:

Section 55-11-740. (A) Notwithstanding another provision of law, the Pee Dee Regional Airport District may make application to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board for the purpose of establishing, operating, and maintaining foreign-trade zones in Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Horry, Marion, and Marlboro counties, under the act of Congress known as the Foreign-Trade Zones Act, which provides for the establishment, operation, and maintenance of foreign-trade zones in the United States.

(B) The Pee Dee Regional Airport District shall select and describe the location of the zones for which application may be made and shall make such regulations concerning the operation, maintenance, and policing of them as may be necessary to ensure compliance with the Foreign-Trade Zones Act and for other appropriate purposes.

(C) The Pee Dee Regional Airport District has the authority to own, erect, maintain, and operate or lease any structures or buildings or enclosures as may be necessary or proper for establishing, operating, and maintaining such foreign-trade zones within Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Horry, Marion, and Marlboro counties.

(D) The authority granted to the Pee Dee Regional Airport District confers the right, duty, and power to do all things necessary and proper to achieve compliance with the Foreign-Trade Zones Act and to carry into effect the establishing, operating, and maintaining of foreign-trade zones within Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Horry, Marion, and Marlboro counties.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator REICHENBACH 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:

Ayes 42; Nays 0

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Blackmon                  Bright
Campsen                   Cash                      Chaplin
Climer                    Corbin                    Cromer
Davis                     Devine                    Elliott
Gambrell                  Garrett                   Graham
Grooms                    Hembree                   Hutto
Jackson                   Johnson                   Kennedy
Kimbrell                  Leber                     Martin
Massey                    Ott                       Peeler
Rankin                    Reichenbach               Rice
Sabb                      Stubbs                    Sutton
Tedder                    Turner                    Verdin
Williams                  Young                     Zell

Total--42

NAYS

Total--0

There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

OBJECTION

S. 355 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett, Climer, Leber, Turner, Davis, Johnson, Adams, Fernandez, Tedder, Sutton, Ott and Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-1140, RELATING TO TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES ON LICENSED PREMISES, SO AS TO MODIFY THE TIME DURING WHICH TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES CAN OCCUR; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-1150, RELATING TO TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES, SO AS TO MODIFY THE AMOUNT OF LIQUOR THAT CAN BE SOLD TO A CONSUMER DURING ONE BUSINESS DAY.

Senators CASH, CORBIN and GARRETT objected to consideration of the Bill.

OBJECTION

S. 849 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott, Johnson, Sutton, Turner, Climer, Ott, Zell, Young, Bennett, Hutto, Tedder, Adams and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-170, RELATING TO DRIVE-THROUGH OR CURBSIDE SERVICE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-4-45 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISSUE CERTAIN LICENSES OR PERMITS ALLOWING A RETAILER TO OFFER CERTAIN CURBSIDE DELIVERY OR PICK UP; BY ADDING SECTION 61-4-280 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RETAIL DEALER MAY HIRE A DELIVERY SERVICE TO DELIVER CERTAIN BEER AND WINE AND TO PROVIDE FOR REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-6-1570 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISSUE CERTAIN LICENSES OR PERMITS ALLOWING A RETAILER TO OFFER CERTAIN CURBSIDE DELIVERY OR PICK UP; AND BY ADDING SECTION 61-6-1580 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A RETAIL DEALER MAY HIRE A DELIVERY SERVICE TO DELIVER CERTAIN ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS AND TO PROVIDE FOR REQUIREMENTS.

Senators CASH, CORBIN and GARRETT objected to consideration of the Bill.

OBJECTION

S. 1001 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Rankin, Tedder and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 61-2-400 SO AS TO DEFINE "ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES", "ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS BY THE DRINK", "CATERER", "PRIVATE EVENT", AND "COMMERCIAL KITCHEN"; BY ADDING SECTION 61-2-410 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO ISSUE A RETAIL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CATERER LICENSE AND PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSING RQUIREMENTS; AND WHICH LICENSE WOULD ALLOW THE LICENSEE TO SERVE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, PURCHASE BEER AND WINE DIRECTLY FROM A WHOLESALER, AND PURCHASE ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR DIRECTLY FROM A LIQUOR STORE; AND WHICH LICENSE WOULD ALLOW THE TRANSFER OF THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES FROM THE WHOLESALER TO THE CATERER AND FROM THE CATERER TO THE LOCATION OF THE PRIVATE EVENT, AND WOULD ALLOW A WHOLESALER AND RETAIL LIQUOR STORE WITH A WHOLESALER'S PERMIT TO TAKE LIQUOR AND OFFER A REFUND OR CREDIT; AND TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-2-420 SO AS TO ALLOW THE HOLDER OF A VALID RETAIL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CATERER LICENSE OR BUSINESS LIQUOR-BY-THE-DRINK LICENSE TO CONTRACT WITH AN EVENT HOST TO PROVIDE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, AND THE EVENT HOST IS ALLOWED TO CHARGE AN ENTRY FEE TO COVER THE COSTS OF THE EVENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-160, RELATING TO DISCOUNT PRICING FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO ALLOW A BIENNIAL PERMIT HOLDER FOR THE SALE OF BEER OR WINE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION TO SPONSOR TWELVE FUNCTIONS PER YEAR WHERE BEVERAGES ARE FREE DURING A FUND-RAISING ACTIVITY, PRIVATE FUNCTION ON PREMISES FOR WHICH A BIENNIAL PERMIT HAS BEEN ISSUED, OR TO A CUSTOMER ATTENDING A FUNCTION SPONSORED BY A PERSON WHO HOLDS A BIENNIAL PERMIT; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-2000, RELATING TO TEMPORARY PERMITS FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS; CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS, SO AS TO ALLOW ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR TEMPORARY PERMITS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS TO BE ISSUED TO A CATERER WITH A VALID CATERER LICENSE, A FOOD ESTABLISHMENT SERVICE, OR A NONPROFIT, AND THE PERMIT HOLDER MAY SELL TICKETS TO THE EVENT; AND TO ESTABLISH THAT THE DEPARTMENT SHALL REQUIRE THE APPLICANT TO COMPLETE THE NOTIFICATION PROVISION IN THE APPLICATION FORM, AND TO INCLUDE THAT THE APPLICANT SHALL NOTIFY THE DIVISION THAT ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS WILL BE SERVED AT LEAST TWENTY-FOUR HOURS PRIOR TO THE SPECIAL EVENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-550, RELATING TO SPECIAL PERMITS FOR USE AT FAIRS AND SPECIAL FUNCTIONS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.

Senators GARRETT and CASH objected to consideration of the Bill.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3163 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Lawson, Pope, Spann-Wilder, McCravy, Hartnett, Teeple, Kilmartin, Montgomery, Sanders, Bauer, Guffey, Taylor and W. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 42-11-30, RELATING TO OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES COMPENSABLE UNDER WORKERS' COMPENSATION AND CONDITIONS PRESUMED TO HAVE ARISEN OUT OF AND IN THE COURSE OF EMPLOYMENT FOR FIREFIGHTERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE STROKE, AND TO REVISE PRESUMPTION ENTITLEMENT CRITERIA TO INCLUDE CONDITIONS DEVELOPED WHILE ACTIVELY ON DUTY INSTEAD OF ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN FIREFIGHTING.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3335 (Word version) -- Reps. Dillard, Spann-Wilder and Garvin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 33-1-103, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF REPRESENTATION IN MAGISTRATES COURT, SO AS TO INCLUDE HOUSING AUTHORITIES.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3387 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, W. Newton, B. Newton, Robbins, C. Mitchell, Pope, Chapman, McCravy, Chumley, Taylor, Forrest, Long, Ligon, Guest, Crawford, Edgerton, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox, Holman, Davis, Brewer, Murphy, Calhoon, Erickson, Bradley, Williams, Hixon, Burns, Hewitt, Gilreath, Cromer, Oremus and Hartz: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 SO AS TO ENTITLE THE ARTICLE "EJECTMENT OF UNLAWFUL OCCUPANTS OF A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING," TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE AN ALTERNATIVE REMEDY TO REMOVE PERSONS UNLAWFULLY OCCUPYING A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING; TO REDESIGNATE CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AS "EJECTMENT PROCEEDINGS"; TO REDESIGNATE THE EXISTING SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AS ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AND ENTITLE IT "EJECTMENT OF TENANTS"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-521 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE OFFENSE OF CRIMINAL MISCHIEF.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3474 (Word version) -- Rep. Stavrinakis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-23-1610, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS APPLICABLE TO THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "PERSONAL VEHICLE"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 58-23-1610, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "PREARRANGED RIDE."

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3558 (Word version) -- Reps. Taylor, Pope, Hewitt, B. Newton, C. Mitchell, Yow, Oremus, Willis, Ligon and Guffey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ARTICLE 23 OF CHAPTER 1, TITLE 1, RELATING TO CALLS OR APPLICATIONS FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDING CONVENTIONS MADE TO CONGRESS, SO AS TO RETITLE THE ARTICLE, AND TO ADD NEW SECTIONS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE QUALIFICATIONS, APPOINTMENT, OATH, AND DUTIES OF COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO REPRESENT THE STATE AT AN ARTICLE V CONVENTION, AMONG OTHER THINGS.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3731 (Word version) -- Rep. Bernstein: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY REPEALING SECTION 2 OF ACT 201 OF 2024 SO AS TO REMOVE A SUNSET PROVISION CONCERNING THE AUTHORITY OF SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS TO OWN, DISPOSE, ACQUIRE, PURCHASE, HOLD, USE, LEASE, CONVEY, SELL, TRANSFER, OR OTHERWISE DISPOSE OF PROPERTY.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 3874 (Word version) -- Reps. J.E. Johnson and Schuessler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 42-15-90, RELATING TO FEES OF ATTORNEYS AND PHYSICIANS AND HOSPITAL CHARGES APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH MEDICAL FEE SCHEDULES AND RELATED SYSTEMS.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4188 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, B. Newton, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox, Brewer, Ford, Davis, Robbins, Yow and C. Mitchell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-5-590, RELATING TO DISPOSITION OF REMAINS OF UNIDENTIFIED DEAD BODIES BY CORONERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE UNCLAIMED REMAINS IN THE PURVIEW OF THE STATUTE, AND TO AUTHORIZE CORONERS TO RELEASE REMAINS TO FAMILY MEMBERS, RATHER THAN THE NEXT OF KIN, WHEN THE NEXT OF KIN IS CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH THE DEATH OR OTHERWISE UNCOOPERATIVE IN CLAIMING REMAINS.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4292 (Word version) -- Reps. Martin, Terribile, M.M. Smith, Robbins, B.L. 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.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4337 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton and Bannister: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 2-15-130 SO AS TO GRANT SUBPOENA POWERS TO THE LEGISLATIVE AUDIT COUNCIL; BY AMENDING SECTION 2-15-40, RELATING TO THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE DIRECTOR OF THE LEGISLATIVE AUDIT COUNCIL, SO AS TO EXPAND THE PREREQUISITES FOR HOLDING THE POSITION OF DIRECTOR, AMONG OTHER CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 2-15-61, RELATING TO ACCESS TO AGENCY RECORDS, SO AS TO EXPAND THE LEGISLATIVE AUDIT COUNCIL'S ACCESS TO RECORDS AND FACILITIES UPON REQUEST AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 2-15-120, RELATING TO THE CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE WHICH RECORDS ARE CONSIDERED CONFIDENTIAL AND TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "RECORDS."

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4589 (Word version) -- Rep. Gilliam: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-10-470, RELATING TO COUNTIES IN WHICH THE EDUCATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS SALES AND USE TAX MAY BE IMPOSED, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL AUTHORIZATIONS.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4706 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford, Neese, Chumley, Hartnett, Gilliard, Rivers and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 15-1-350 SO AS TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN RACING FACILITIES, UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, FROM BEING SUBJECT TO NUISANCE AND TAKING CAUSES OF ACTION FROM A SURROUNDING LANDOWNER.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4709 (Word version) -- Reps. Yow, C. Mitchell, M.M. Smith, Williams, Willis, Schuessler, Erickson, Bradley, Kirby, Brewer and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 11-35-5350 SO AS TO REQUIRE A PUBLIC ENTITY ENTERING INTO A CONTRACT FOR A PUBLIC WORKS PROJECT OR FOR THE PURCHASE OF MATERIALS FOR A PUBLIC WORKS PROJECT MUST INCLUDE IN THE CONTRACT A REQUIREMENT THAT ANY IRON OR STEEL PRODUCT PERMANENTLY INCORPORATED IN THE PROJECT BE PRODUCED IN THE UNITED STATES, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

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

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4805 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, C. Mitchell, B. Newton, Pope, White, Robbins and Hart: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 14-5-610, RELATING TO THE DIVISION OF THE STATE INTO SIXTEEN JUDICIAL CIRCUITS, THE NUMBER OF JUDGES TO BE ELECTED FROM EACH CIRCUIT, AND THE ELECTION OF AT-LARGE JUDGES WITHOUT REGARD TO COUNTY OR CIRCUIT OF RESIDENCE, SO AS TO CONVERT THREE AT-LARGE CIRCUIT COURT SEATS TO RESIDENT SEATS IN THE FIRST, THIRD, AND EIGHTH CIRCUITS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-40, RELATING TO THE NUMBER OF FAMILY COURT JUDGES TO BE ELECTED FROM EACH CIRCUIT, SO AS TO CONVERT FOUR AT-LARGE FAMILY COURT SEATS TO RESIDENT SEATS IN THE FIFTH, TENTH, AND TWELFTH CIRCUITS.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 4813 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, C. Mitchell, Robbins and Oremus: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 8-21-1010 AND 8-21-1060, BOTH RELATING TO FEES AND COSTS TO BE COLLECTED BY MAGISTRATES, BOTH SO AS TO INCREASE VARIOUS FEES AND COSTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 22-3-340, RELATING TO ASSESSMENTS ON FILINGS IN MAGISTRATES COURT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ASSESSMENT ON SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT FILINGS AND ALL OTHER CIVIL FILINGS.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 5006 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Long, Hewitt, M.M. Smith, Gatch, Schuessler, Stavrinakis, Hiott, Pope, Erickson, Hixon, Neese, Wooten, Ligon, Chapman, Forrest, Hartz, Guffey, Ford, Willis, Cox, Sanders, Vaughan, Oremus, Duncan, G.M. Smith, Bowers, Sessions, Bannister, Bailey, Brewer, Weeks, Landing, Moss, Bradley, Lawson, Rankin, Guest, Brittain, Lowe, T. Moore, Ballentine, Robbins, Martin, Caskey, Pedalino, Calhoon, Davis, W. Newton, C. Mitchell, Holman, Hardee, Taylor, Yow, Jordan, Haddon, Wickensimer, Bamberg, King, McDaniel, J.L. Johnson, Cromer, Gilreath and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SMALL BUSINESS TAX CUT OF 2026"; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT THE FIRST TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS OF NET DEPRECIATED VALUE OF BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY OWNED BY A SMALL BUSINESS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-900, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX RETURNS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A TAXPAYER IS NOT REQUIRED TO RETURN BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY FOR TAXATION IF THE TAXPAYER HAS LESS THAN TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS OF NET DEPRECIATED VALUE OF BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY; BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-980 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT ALL BUSINESS PERSONAL PROPERTY REQUIRED TO BE RETURNED FOR TAXATION TO BE RETURNED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-20-50, RELATING TO THE LICENSE TAX ON CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT, UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, THE FEE DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY PORTION OF THE FIRST FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS OF CERTAIN CAPITAL STOCK AND PAID-IN OR CAPITAL SURPLUS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 33-44-409, RELATING TO STANDARDS OF CONDUCT OF A CORPORATE OFFICER, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION TO REFRAINING FROM COMPETING.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 5097 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Yow, Ligon, Holman, Rankin, Pedalino, Forrest, Hixon, Cromer, Gilreath and M.M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-145 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN ROADSIDE MARKETS OPERATED BY FARMERS ARE NOT CONSIDERED COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS FOR LOCAL ZONING PURPOSES AND ARE EXEMPT FROM CERTAIN LOCAL AND STATE REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.

Point of Order

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.

OBJECTION

H. 5111 (Word version) -- Reps. Forrest, Lastinger, Hartz, Gibson, McCravy, Reese and Duncan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 5-31-60 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PROPERTY OWNERS TO DRILL, OPERATE, AND MAINTAIN PRIVATE WATER WELLS ON AGRICULTURAL OR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY; TO PROHIBIT COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES FROM MANDATING CONNECTION TO MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEMS ABSENT A DOCUMENTED PUBLIC HEALTH THREAT; TO ESTABLISH PRIMA FACIE EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE; TO PREEMPT CONFLICTING LOCAL ORDINANCES; AND TO PROVIDE FOR ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES.

Senator CHAPLIN objected to consideration of the Bill.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 5113 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, M.M. Smith, Guffey, B. Newton, Lawson, Sessions, Robbins, Gatch, Neese, Kirby, Waters, C. Mitchell, Yow, Atkinson, Forrest, Gagnon, Guest, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hiott, J.L. Johnson, Wooten, Chapman and Ligon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 6-29-735 SO AS TO PROHIBIT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM PREVENTING THE CONTINUANCE OF LAWFUL NONCONFORMING USE OF PROPERTY WHEN A PREEXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME OR MOBILE HOME IS REPLACED WITH A NEW MANUFACTURED HOME OR MOBILE HOME, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-43-85, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR PLACEMENT OF MODULAR HOMES; DISPLAY MODELS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECTION APPLIES TO ON-FRAME MODULAR HOMES AND TO REMOVE A FIVE-YEAR RESTRICTION ON DISPLAY MODELS BEING USED FOR RESIDENTIAL USE.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 5120 (Word version) -- Reps. Cox, Garvin, Holman, T. Moore, Sessions, Wetmore, C. Mitchell and Yow: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2020, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY OF JUVENILE RECORDS, SO AS TO CLARIFY WHEN NOTICE ABOUT THE DISPOSITION OF A CASE AGAINST A CHILD CHARGED WITH CERTAIN OFFENSES MUST BE PROVIDED TO A SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, AND TO CLARIFY WHEN JUVENILE FINGERPRINT RECORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHS ARE TAKEN, HOW THESE RECORDS ARE MAINTAINED, AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THESE RECORDS MAY BE TRANSMITTED TO ANOTHER AGENCY OR PERSON; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2030, RELATING TO JUVENILE LAW ENFORCEMENT RECORDS, SO AS TO CLARIFY WHEN INCIDENT REPORTS ABOUT A CHILD CHARGED WITH CERTAIN OFFENSES MUST BE PROVIDED TO A SCHOOL PRINCIPAL.

Point of Order

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.

POINT OF ORDER

H. 5473 (Word version) -- Reps. Lowe and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 15 TO CHAPTER 19, TITLE 50 SO AS TO PROHIBIT FISHING ON THE J. FOSTER JEFFORDS CAUSEWAY IN FLORENCE COUNTY.

Point of Order

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.

ADOPTED

S. 1126 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND CELEBRATE SOVEREIGN GRAND INSPECTOR GENERAL EMERITUS TYRONE R. HARPER 33° FOR HIS COMMITMENT AND MANY YEARS OF SERVICE TO HIS COMMUNITY, THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AND TO RECOGNIZE JUNE 7, 2026, AS "SOVEREIGN GRAND INSPECTOR GENERAL EMERITUS TYRONE R. HARPER DAY."

The Resolution was adopted.

ADOPTED

S. 1131 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MAY 8, 2026, AS "PROVIDER APPRECIATION DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

The Resolution was adopted.

ADOPTED

S. 1157 (Word version) -- Senator Rankin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF CATES BAY HIGHWAY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH HIGHWAY 134 TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH HIGHWAY 804 IN HORRY COUNTY "BOBBY LONG MARTIN HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

The Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

ADOPTED

H. 4128 (Word version) -- Reps. King and McDaniel: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF ESTES LANE IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH STATE ROAD S-20-60 TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH LANDIS ROAD "MARY LUCILLE KENNEDY MCDANIEL ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.

The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

ADOPTED

H. 5500 (Word version) -- Reps. Teeple, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Ford, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J.E. Johnson, J.L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lastinger, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, C. Mitchell, D. Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Scott, Sessions, G.M. Smith, M.M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CELEBRATE THE RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE, HISTORY, AND ENDURING CONTRIBUTIONS OF CAMBODIAN AMERICANS AND TO DECLARE APRIL 2026 CAMBODIAN HERITAGE MONTH IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.

ADJOURNMENT

At 1:31 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.

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This web page was last updated on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 3:38 P.M.