NO. 64
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 12:00 Noon, the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.
A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:
Isaiah 43:18-19a
Recall if you will how Isaiah proclaimed: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you perceive it?"
Join me as we bow in prayer, please: O most glorious Lord God, such a wondrous and marvelous world have You created for us to embrace and enjoy. And we truly do value and praise You for the incredible gifts You have granted to us here in South Carolina. But today we pray in particular for each of these faithful and dedicated Senators and their staff members as together they labor dutifully not just to care for the very blessings we enjoy, but to work unfailingly toward moving our State ever forward. And may the final result of their efforts in that regard continue to bring even greater promise and hope to all of our citizens: Dum spiro spero indeed! Bless these faithful servants, dear Lord. Bless them all. We so humbly pray in Your wondrous name. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
At 12:03 P.M., on motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate receded from business until 1:45 P.M.
At 1:55 P.M., the Senate resumed.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hutto Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, with unanimous consent, Senators BENNETT, GARRETT, REICHENBACH, WILLIAMS and GAMBRELL were granted leave to attend a subcommittee meeting and were granted leave to vote from the balcony.
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Reappointment, South Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy, with the term to commence September 30, 2026, and to expire September 30, 2029
Occupational Therapist:
M. Rebecca T. Coleman, 605 Wando Street, Columbia, SC 29205
Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Reappointment, Calhoun County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Calhoun County:
Hon. Jeffry P. Bloom, 2833 Old Belleville Road, St. Matthews, SC 29135
Reappointment, Calhoun County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Calhoun County:
Hon. Cassandra Keller, 165 Bair Road, St. Matthews, SC 29135
Reappointment, Calhoun County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Calhoun County:
Hon. Joseph D. Teague, Sr., 255 Boone Lane, Swansea, SC 29160
Reappointment, Clarendon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Clarendon County:
Hon. Janice L. Coney, 103 Gregory Street, Manning, SC 29102
Reappointment, Clarendon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Clarendon County:
Hon. Robin Locklear-Moody, 431 North Brooks Street, Manning, SC 29102
Reappointment, Clarendon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Clarendon County:
Hon. Robert S. McCord, 2681 Greeleyville Highway, Manning, SC 29102
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Dean E. Ford, 445 East Curtis Street, Simpsonville, SC 29681
Reappointment, Hampton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Hampton County:
Hon. Tonja Alexander, 207 Sharon Avenue, Hampton, SC 29924
Reappointment, McCormick County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
McCormick County:
Hon. John C. Long, 132 Antioch Drive, McCormick, SC 29835
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. James C. Alexander, 120 North Little River Road, Salem, SC 29676
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. William F. Derrick, Jr., 231 Stonehaven Way, Seneca, SC 29672
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. Erin C. McKinney, 15084 Beacon Ridge Drive, Seneca, SC 29678
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. Daniel J. Pollock, 114 Old Station Road, West Union, SC 29696
Initial Appointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sumter County:
Don A. Florence, Sr., 1602 Bradham Boulevard, Sumter, SC 29153 VICE Larry Blanding
The following were received:
Document No. 5402
Agency: State Board of Education
Chapter: 43
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 59-40-180
SUBJECT: Charter Schools
Received by President of the Senate January 13, 2026
Referred to Committee on Education
Legislative Review Expiration: Permanently Withdrawn
Permanently Withdrawn May 1, 2026
Document No. 5403
Agency: State Board of Education
Chapter: 43
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-1-445, 59-1-447, 59-5-60, 59-18-310(B), and 59-18-325
SUBJECT: Test Security
Received by President of the Senate January 13, 2026
Referred to Committee on Education
Legislative Review Expiration: Permanently Withdrawn
Permanently Withdrawn May 1, 2026
Senator ZELL introduced Dr. Robert Ridgeway of Clarendon, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator VERDIN, at 2:00 P.M., Senator GAMBRELL was granted a leave of absence until 4:40 P.M.
At 2:04 P.M. Senator GROOMS requested a leave of absence beginning Tuesday, May 26, 2026, until Friday, June 5, 2026.
On motion of Senator TURNER, at 2:47 P.M., Senator HEMBREE was granted a leave of absence until 3:30 P.M.
Senator HUTTO rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator HUTTO, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
The following co-sponsor was added to the respective Bill:
S. 1164 (Word version) Sen. Sutton
H. 3047 (Word version) -- Reps. Moss, Haddon and Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-705 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF INTENTIONALLY RELEASING, ORGANIZING THE RELEASE OF, OR INTENTIONALLY CAUSING THE RELEASE OF BALLOONS INFLATED WITH GAS THAT IS LIGHTER THAN AIR, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-700, RELATING TO THE DUMPING OF LITTER ON PRIVATE OR PUBLIC PROPERTY, EXCEPTIONS, AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOONS IN THE LITTER STATUTE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-710, RELATING TO THE ACCEPTANCE OF A CASH BOND IN LIEU OF AN IMMEDIATE COURT APPEARANCE IN LITTER CONTROL PROSECUTIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE A VIOLATION OF THE BALLOON STATUTE WHEN A CASH BOND IS ALLOWED.
Senator ADAMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.
Senator SABB objected.
H. 4446 (Word version) -- Reps. Anderson and Hewitt: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF POWELL ROAD IN GEORGETOWN COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SINGLETON ROAD TO HAROLD ROAD "DEPUTY SHERIFF LEROY GASQUE SR. MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.
The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 4476 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford, Bamberg, J. Moore, Herbkersman and Rivers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 80 TO TITLE 39 ENTITLED "SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION" SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION AND PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP AND PURPOSE.
Senator DAVIS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 5122 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Bannister, Herbkersman, Yow, C. Mitchell, Rose, Cobb-Hunter, Lawson, Brewer, Kirby, Ballentine, Rutherford, Hiott, Gagnon, Guest, M.M. Smith, Howard, Pope, Grant, Anderson, Schuessler, G.M. Smith, Caskey, Davis and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 31 TO CHAPTER 9, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PERMIT CERTAIN ITEMS SOLD TO OR USED BY INTERNET ACCESS SERVICE PROVIDERS AND COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE PROVIDERS TO BE EXEMPT FROM SALES TAX.
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.
At 2:22 p.m., Senator CAMPSEN assumed the Chair.
The following were introduced:
S. 1170 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE SMALL IMPRESSIONS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND THE CENTER FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE GREENVILLE COMMUNITY AND THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0672km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1171 (Word version) -- Senator Reichenbach: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE POWER OF PRAYER FOSTER CARE INITIATIVE, AND TO COMMEND THE INITIATIVE FOR THEIR IMPORTANT WORK SUPPORTING FOSTER CARE EFFORTS IN THE STATE.
sr-0666km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1172 (Word version) -- Senator Stubbs: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF ELOISE STONE COLEMAN AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
sr-0670km-vc26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1173 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR CAPTIVATING COLUMBIA, THE COLUMBIA CHAPTER OF JACK AND JILL OF AMERICA INC., AND TO COMMEND THE CHAPTER ON ITS SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY OF SERVICE IN THE COMMUNITY.
lc-0523vr-gm26.docx
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 1174 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA SPEED SAFETY ACT OF 2026" BY ADDING ARTICLE 12 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES TO EMPLOY SPEED-SAFETY SYSTEMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-70, RELATING TO CERTAIN VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS SUSPENDED DURING STATES OF EMERGENCY, AND DECLARATIONS OF EMERGENCIES TRIGGERING FEDERAL RELIEF, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION CONCERNING THE ISSUANCE OF CITATIONS FOR CERTAIN TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-710, RELATING TO POWERS OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CERTAIN TRAFFIC CITATIONS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 56-7-35 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF UNIFORM TRAFFIC TICKETS FOR CERTAIN OFFENSES.
lc-0581cm26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 1175 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 176 FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 16 TO THE COLUMBIA CANAL IN RICHLAND COUNTY "DR. JASPER SALMOND HIGHWAY" AND PLACE APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS CONTAINING THESE WORDS AT THIS LOCATION.
lc-0578cm-gt26.docx
The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 1176 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 7, TITLE 41, SO AS TO DECLARE THAT PRACTICE AGREEMENTS ARE AGAINST THE PUBLIC POLICY OF THE STATE AND TO MAKE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS PROHIBITED, VOID, AND UNENFORCEABLE.
sr-0131cem26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
S. 1177 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE SPARTANBURG DAY SCHOOL VARSITY BOYS AND GIRLS GOLF TEAMS, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THE BOYS TEAM FOR WINNING THE SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION BOYS GOLF STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.
sr-0669km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1178 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR WARDEN JONATHAN NANCE FOR HIS ACT OF HEROISM AND TO COMMEND HIS DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0673km-vc26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
H. 5122 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Bannister, Herbkersman, Yow, C. Mitchell, Rose, Cobb-Hunter, Lawson, Brewer, Kirby, Ballentine, Rutherford, Hiott, Gagnon, Guest, M. M. Smith, Howard, Pope, Grant, Anderson, Schuessler, G. M. Smith, Caskey, Davis and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 31 TO CHAPTER 9, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PERMIT CERTAIN ITEMS SOLD TO OR USED BY INTERNET ACCESS SERVICE PROVIDERS AND COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE PROVIDERS TO BE EXEMPT FROM SALES TAX.
lc-0277ha26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 5488 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton and M. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-65-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA TEXTILES COMMUNITIES REVITALIZATION ACT, SO AS TO SPECIFY QUALIFYING REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN REHABILITATION EXPENSES.
lc-0489dg26.docx
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
H. 5573 (Word version) -- Reps. Long, Chumley, Edgerton, Magnuson, Lawson and Moss: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 813 OF 1946, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE SPARTANBURG MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM COMMISSION SO AS TO CHANGE THE COMPOSITION OF THE COMMISSION.
lc-0260ph26.docx
Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3551 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Gilliam, Pope, Taylor, Weeks, Bowers, Yow, M.M. Smith, Caskey, Kilmartin, Oremus, Ballentine, C. Mitchell, Hewitt, Hixon and Calhoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-1-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS APPLICABLE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SO AS TO PROVIDE EARNABLE COMPENSATION DOES NOT INCLUDE CERTAIN AMOUNTS PAID TO MANAGERS AND CLERKS OF ELECTIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1120, RELATING TO THE COMPUTATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA GROSS INCOME, SO AS TO EXCLUDE CERTAIN AMOUNTS PAID TO MANAGERS AND CLERKS OF ELECTIONS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:
H. 3841 (Word version) -- Reps. Hewitt, B. Newton, Yow, Hardee, Bailey, M.M. Smith, Teeple, Kirby, Bustos, Landing, Brewer, Hartnett, Lawson, Davis, Murphy and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-43-220, RELATING TO ASSESSMENT RATIOS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, PROPERTY RECEIVING THE FOUR PERCENT ASSESSMENT RATIO SHALL CONTINUE AT FOUR PERCENT WHEN THE OWNER DIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-460 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS SHALL CONTINUE TO APPLY WHEN THE OWNER DIES.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3863 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, M.M. Smith, Rivers, Henderson-Myers, Waters and Pope: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA STEM OPPORTUNITY ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 17 TO CHAPTER 1, TITLE 13, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) COALITION, THE SOUTH CAROLINA SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) EDUCATION FUND WITHIN THE STATE TREASURY, AND THE SC STEM COALITION ADVISORY COUNCIL, AND TO PROVIDE THEIR RESPECTIVE PURPOSES AND FUNCTIONS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 3876 (Word version) -- Reps. Hewitt, Bailey, Kirby, Oremus, Hardee, Hayes, Cobb-Hunter, Ligon, Rutherford, B.L. Cox, Henderson-Myers and Atkinson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-36-72 SO AS TO SPECIFY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COLLECTING AND REMITTING CERTAIN TAXES AND FEES IMPOSED ON ACCOMMODATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-70, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF RETAILER, SO AS TO INCLUDE PERSONS OPERATING AS AN ACCOMMODATIONS INTERMEDIARY AND TO DELETE AN EXCEPTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-920, RELATING TO THE ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO SPECIFY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COLLECTING AND REMITTING CERTAIN TAXES AND FEES IMPOSED ON ACCOMMODATIONS AND TO REQUIRE AN ANNUAL REPORT ON IMPOSITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-510, RELATING TO THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO INCLUDE GROSS PROCEEDS OF PERSONS ACTING AS MERCHANTS OF RECORD; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-520, RELATING TO THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO REQUIRE A LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND THE STATE TREASURER OF CERTAIN IMPOSITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-570, RELATING TO REMITTING THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE TAX IS TO BE COLLECTED; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-630, RELATING TO THE BEACH PRESERVATION FEE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE FEE TO BE COLLECTED AND REMITTED IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX AND TO REQUIRE THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND THE STATE TREASURER OF THE IMPOSITION OF THE FEE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 5-7-30, RELATING TO THE POWERS OF A MUNICIPALITY, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN UNIFORM SERVICE CHANGES ON ACCOMMODATIONS BE COLLECTED AND REMITTED IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX AND TO REQUIRE THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND THE STATE TREASURER OF THE IMPOSITION OF THE FEE.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 4477 (Word version) -- Reps. Landing, Cobb-Hunter, Rivers, Williams, Luck, King, Gilliard, Waters, Henderson-Myers, Collins, Schuessler, Herbkersman, M.M. Smith, Govan and Hart: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "HEIRS' PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3150, RELATING TO DETERMINING WHEN AN ASSESSIBLE TRANSFER OF INTEREST OCCURS, SO AS TO EXCLUDE TRANSFERS MADE AMONG FAMILY MEMBERS TO CLEAR THE TITLE OF HEIRS' PROPERTY.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:
H. 4767 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, Chumley, Sessions, Oremus, Bustos, Landing, White, Wooten, Gagnon, Lawson, Guffey, Beach, Long, B.L. Cox, Rutherford, McCravy, Bowers, Wickensimer, Willis, Haddon, Bauer, Rankin, Burns, Rose, Vaughan, Duncan, Robbins, Brewer and D. Mitchell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 9 TO TITLE 41 SO AS TO PROHIBIT NONCOMPETE CLAUSES IN PHYSICIAN CONTRACTS, TO PROTECT PATIENT FREEDOM OF CHOICE, TO DEFINE IMPERMISSIBLE RESTRICTIONS ON PHYSICIAN PRACTICE, TO ALLOW CERTAIN RECOUPMENT OF EXPENSES AND PROTECTION OF LEGITIMATE BUSINESS INTERESTS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR APPLICABILITY.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:
H. 5093 (Word version) -- Reps. Caskey, Bannister, Long, Lawson, C. Mitchell and Yow: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-90, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES, SO AS TO EXCLUDE AMOUNTS PAID BY STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR THE EMERGENCY SERVICES IP NETWORK.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:
H. 5208 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton and Moss: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM SALES TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN UNPREPARED FOODS, THAT MAY BE PURCHASED WITH FOOD COUPONS WHICH ARE EXEMPT FROM TAXES, ARE NOT LIMITED TO CERTAIN FEDERAL REGULATIONS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:
H. 5537 (Word version) -- Rep. Hayes: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, THE STATE FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY AUTHORITY, OR THE APPROPRIATE AGENCY, TO TRANSFER THE NATIONAL GUARD ARMORY IN DILLON COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA, TO THE CITY OF DILLON.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., May 5, 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. 52 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Cash, Gambrell, Grooms, Jackson, Devine, Climer, Johnson, Adams, Turner, Kimbrell, Sutton, Blackmon, Williams, Alexander, Verdin, Garrett, Zell and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2930, RELATING TO OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO AMEND THE PENALTY PROVISIONS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2933, RELATING TO DRIVING WITH UNLAWFUL ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2941, RELATING TO IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES NOTHING IN THE SECTION REQUIRES INSTALLATION OF IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES PRIOR TO CONTESTED CASE HEARINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2945, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE SECOND DEGREE, ESTABLISH PENALTIES, AND DEFINE THE TERM "MODERATE BODILY INJURY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2947, RELATING TO CHILD ENDANGERMENT, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE OFFENSES OF RECKLESS VEHICULAR HOMICIDE AND RECKLESS DRIVING AS VIOLATIONS SUBJECT TO A CHARGE OF CHILD ENDANGERMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2950, RELATING TO IMPLIED CONSENT TO TESTING FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES, PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED, AND TEST SITES THAT CAN BE USED WHEN PERSONS ARE SUBJECTED TO TESTS FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, TO PROVIDE THAT LABORATORY TECHNICIANS, PHLEBOTOMISTS, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS MAY OBTAIN BLOOD OR URINE SAMPLES, TO REVISE THE PERIOD OF SUSPENSIONS OF DRIVING PRIVILEGES THAT MUST BE IMPOSED FOR FAILURE IF PERSONS REFUSE TO BE TESTED AND IF PERSONS HAVE CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, TO REVISE THE PROVISION THAT ESTABLISHES ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO PERSONS INCAPABLE OF REFUSING TO CONSENT TO TESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2951, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF LICENSES FOR REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO TESTING OR FOR CERTAIN LEVELS OF ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED LICENSE SUSPENSIONS MAY INSTALL IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES WITHIN THIRTY DAYS AND OBTAIN TEMPORARY DRIVERS' LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS WHO REFUSE TO SUBMIT TO CHEMICAL TESTS MUST HAVE THEIR DRIVERS' LICENSES SUSPENDED FOR ONE YEAR FOR A FIRST OFFENSE, AND TO PROVIDE INCREASED SUSPENSIONS FOR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES, OR IF PERSONS TAKE THE TESTS AND REGISTER ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS OF OVER FIFTEEN ONE-HUNDREDTH OF ONE PERCENT OR MORE, THAT THEIR LICENSES ARE SUSPENDED FOR TWO MONTHS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2953, RELATING TO INCIDENT SITES AND BREATH TEST SITES FOR VIDEO RECORDING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION MAY BE CONSTRUED TO COMPEL OR AUTHORIZE A DISMISSAL OF A DUI OFFENSE IF THE OFFICERS SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLY WITH THE STATUTE AND THAT MOTIONS FOR SUPPRESSION OF EVIDENCE UNDER THE STATUTE MUST BE MADE PRIOR TO JEOPARDY ATTACHING; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2920, RELATING TO RECKLESS DRIVING, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSES OF FELONY RECKLESS DRIVING WITH GREAT BODILY INJURY AND RECKLESS DRIVING RESULTING IN MODERATE BODILY INJURY AND TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2960 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS CONVICTED OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE CAUSING THE DEATH OR DISABILITY OF PARENTS OR GUARDIANS MAY BE ORDERED TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT AS RESTITUTION FOR THE DURATION OF ANY PROBATION ORDERED, PERFORM COMMUNITY SERVICE, OR BOTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-286, RELATING TO THE SUSPENSION OF LICENSES OR PERMITS OR THE DENIAL OF ISSUANCE OF LICENSES OR PERMITS TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE WHO DRIVE MOTOR VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED NOTICES OF SUSPENSIONS MAY OBTAIN TEMPORARY LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-400, RELATING TO THE SURRENDER OF LICENSES, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION REQUIRES PERSONS OBTAIN IGNITION INTERLOCKS UNLESS THE OFFENSES ARE ALCOHOL RELATED.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE asked unanimous consent to waive the provisions of Rule 32A requiring the Bill to be printed on the Calendar.
Senator MATTHEWS objected.
S. 1125 (Word version) -- Senator Sabb: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SANTEE ROAD IN WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY FROM JUNE BRANCH CREEK TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH CHARLESTON ROAD "TYRONE A. BURROUGHS ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
H. 5060 (Word version) -- Rep. Stavrinakis: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 369 OF 1959, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ST. JOHN'S FIRE DISTRICT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION AND TO REVISE THE PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS OF THE DISTRICT AND TO REPEAL SECTION 2 OF ACT 727 OF 1978.
On motion of Senator MATTHEWS.
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.
On motion of Senator GAMBRELL.
S. 222 (Word version) -- Senators Ott and Stubbs: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-2-140 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE" AND PROVIDE FOR THE REGISTRATION AND OPERATION OF THEM ON THE HIGHWAYS AND STREETS OF THE STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "OFF-ROAD USE ONLY"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE PASSENGER AUTOMOBILE" TO INCLUDE CERTAIN UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator OTT proposed the following amendment (SMIN-222.MW0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 56-3-630 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 56-3-630. The Department of Motor Vehicles shall classify as a private passenger motor vehicle every motor vehicle which is designed, used, and maintained for the transportation of ten or fewer persons, UTV's, and trucks having an empty weight of nine thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of eleven thousand pounds or less, except a motorcycle, motorcycle three-wheel vehicle, or moped. The department shall classify a three-wheel vehicle by the manufacturer's certificate of origin for the vehicles initial registration. For subsequent registration, the department shall classify the three-wheel vehicle by its title document. This section does not relieve or negate any applicable fees required under Section 56-3-660.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 4 and inserting:
SECTION 4. This act takes effect upon six months after approval by the Governor.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator OTT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator CORBIN proposed the following amendment (SR-222.CEM0022S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Chapter 2, Title 56 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 56-2-5140. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a farmer with a valid SCATE card from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture and a valid driver's license may operate a UTV or other similarly motorized vehicle with a top speed less than fifty-five miles per an hour without restriction, if it is being operated within ten miles of the operator's agricultural operation.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator CORBIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Blackmon Campsen Chaplin Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hutto Jackson Kimbrell Martin Matthews Ott Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Walker Williams Young Zell
Bennett Bright Cash Climer Fernandez Johnson Kennedy Leber Massey Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Verdin
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered sent to the House.
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.
Senator GAMBRELL objected to consideration of the Bill.
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. 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
Senator BRIGHT objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
Senator JOHNSON objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the Bill was carried over.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:
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.
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.
H. 4305 (Word version) -- Rep. Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 TO CHAPTER 71, TITLE 38 ENTITLED "WELLNESS REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAMS" SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, PROHIBIT CERTAIN ACTS BY WELLNESS REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAMS, REQUIRE REGISTRATION INCLUDING AN APPLICATION AND FEES WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE, EXEMPT BROKERS FROM REGISTERING, AND TO PROVIDE FINES FOR FAILING TO REGISTER WHEN REQUIRED.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator DAVIS explained the Bill.
The question being second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Bill was 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.
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)
Senator TEDDER objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
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 GARRETT objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
Senator GARRETT objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator HUTTO explained the Bill.
The question being second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, the Bill was carried over.
At 3:03 P.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-355.MB0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting SECTION 2 from the bill.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator KIMBRELL explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Bennett Campsen Climer Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Walker Williams Young Zell
Alexander Blackmon Bright Cash Chaplin Corbin Garrett Martin Rice Verdin
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
Senator CASH objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-1001.MB0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 61-2-410(B)(6) and inserting:
(6) take delivery of and store alcoholic beverages at the licensee's principal place of business in a secure location that prevents access by anyone other than the licensee or the licensee's employees; and
(7) take delivery of and store alcoholic beverages at the location of the off-site event in a secure location that prevents access by anyone other than the licensee or the licensee's employees for a period beginning three calendar days before the start of the event and ending at the conclusion of the event.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 61-2-410(C) and inserting:
(C) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a wholesaler in the case of beer and wine and retail liquor stores who holds a Class B Wholesaler's permit from the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in the case of liquor may offer credit or a refund for unused, unopened, and undamaged alcoholic beverages to a holder of a retail alcoholic beverage caterer license, provided that the licensee has not transferred the alcoholic beverages from the off-site event to the licensee's principal place of business and stored these beverages at that location for more than seventy-two hours after the termination of the off-site event.
Amend the bill further, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 61-2-185(A)(1) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(1) The organization must be a nonprofit organization registered and in good standing with the South Carolina Secretary of State as a domestic nonprofit organization.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator KIMBRELL explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Climer Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hutto Jackson Johnson Kimbrell Martin Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Walker Williams Young Zell
Blackmon Bright Cash Chaplin Fernandez Garrett Kennedy Leber Massey Rice Verdin
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
H. 3049 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Pope, Taylor, Long, Cobb-Hunter and Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "UNIFORM CIVIL REMEDIES FOR UNAUTHORIZED DISCLOSURE OF INTIMATE IMAGES ACT"; AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, CREATE A CIVIL ACTION FOR AN INDIVIDUAL WHO SUFFERS HARM FROM A PERSON'S INTENTIONAL OR THREATENED DISCLOSURE OF PRIVATE, INTIMATE IMAGES WITHOUT CONSENT, AND PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS TO LIABILITY.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator JOHNSON proposed the following amendment (SJ-3049.MB0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, Section 15-75-330, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) A covered platform that is in compliance with the Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks Act of 2025, P.L. No. 119-12, is not liable under this article for a disclosure or threatened disclosure.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
On motion of Senator SABB, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator JOHNSON explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Blackmon Bright Campsen Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bennett Massey Turner
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
Senator CORBIN objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-3387.PB0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1.A., by striking Section 27-37-230(A)(7) and inserting:
(7) the property has not been leased to any person for three consecutive months, and the unlawful occupant or occupants are not current or former tenants of the property pursuant to any agreement with the property owner;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 27-40-800(b) and inserting:
(b) It is sufficient toNo court shall stay an execution of a judgment for ejectment. that Upon appeal to the circuit court, the tenant sign an undertaking that he willmay file an affidavit with the circuit court or the magistrate having jurisdiction, in which the tenant promises to pay to the landlord the amount of rent, determined by the magistrate in accordance with Section 27-40-780, as it becomes due periodically after the judgment was entered, in exchange for a stay of the execution of a judgment for ejectment. Once the affidavit is accepted by the court, Anyany magistrate, clerk, or circuit court judge shall order a stay of execution upon the undertaking.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ELLIOTT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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."
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator ELLIOTT explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-3874.MB0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 42-15-90(C)(5) and inserting:
(5) The cost containment committee must be comprised of seven nine voting members appointed by the commission.chairman of the commission: Twotwo members representing the medical provider industry; two members representing the workers' compensation insurance industry; two members representing the employer community; two members representing the rights of injured workers; and the final member will be the chairperson chairman of the commission or his appointee.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator JOHNSON proposed the following amendment (SJ-3874.MB0006S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 42-15-90(C)(1), (2), (3), (4), and (5) and inserting:
(1) The commission may adopt criteria to establish a new fee schedule or adjust an existing fee schedule to establish maximum allowable payments for medical services provided by medical practitioners exclusive of hospital inpatient services and hospital outpatient services and ambulatory surgery centers. based in whole or in part on the requirements of a federally funded program, but if it adopts adjustments to an existing fee schedule, it must adopt these adjustments on an annual basis. and the adjustments may not exceed the percentage change indicated by the federally funded program. The commission shall conduct an evidentiary hearing to review a proposed adjustment to increase or reduce these fees by more than ten percent annually to determine whether to:
(a) increase or reduce the proposed adjustment as the commission considers appropriate; or
(b) accept the proposed adjustment.The commission, in consultation with the cost containment committee, must establish a medical fee schedule and a related system that includes, but is not limited to, procedures for a review of charges and enforcement and implementation procedures. In establishing the fee schedule, the commission must strive to assure the delivery of quality medical care in workers' compensation cases and access by injured workers to primary and specialist care while controlling prices and system costs. The commission may consider multiple reimbursement systems and methodologies in developing the fee schedule including, but not limited to, applying single or multiple conversion factors to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Resource Based Relative Value Scale (RBRVS) system.
(2)(a) A decision of the commission to increase or reduce a fee schedule to establish maximum allowable payments for medical services provided by medical practitioners exclusive of hospital inpatient services and hospital outpatient services and ambulatory surgery centers by more than ten percent is reviewable by expedited appeal to the Administrative Law Court pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act.
(b) On appeal, the court may:
(i) accept the increase or decrease;
(ii) impose a lesser increase or decrease;
(iii) revert the fee schedule as it was immediately prior to the annual adjustment;
(iv) adjust the appropriate conversion factors as necessary; or
(v) make other adjustments the court considers reasonable.
(c) The court shall issue a decision within ninety days after it receives the appeal.
(d) During the pendency of this appeal, the portion of the fee schedule under review must remain the same as it was immediately prior to the proposed changes, but all other portions of the fee schedule or conversion factors are effective and remain unchanged.The commission must retain experts to assist in the development of the fee schedule and related systems.
(3)(2) The commission, in consultation with the cost containment committee, must review the fee schedules adopted pursuant to this section on an annual basis and, when appropriate, the commission shall revise the fee schedules as necessary. The annual review must consider among other factors, the medical consumer price index and the workers' compensation fee schedules of other states in the region.
(4)(3) The commission must hold a public hearing to receive comments from stakeholders and shall consider comments received in consultation with the cost containment committee prior to finalizing the annual fee schedule update.
(5)(4) The cost containment committee must be comprised of nine voting members appointed by the chairman of the commission: two members representing the medical provider industry; two members representing the workers' compensation insurance industry; two members representing the employer community; two members representing the rights of injured workers; and the chairman of the commission or his appointee.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-4188.PB0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Section 17-5-590 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 17-5-590. (A) For purposes of this section:
(1) a body is unidentified if the dead person's identity is unknown or cannot be established after all available methods have been exhausted; and
(2) a body is unclaimed if:
(a) a person cannot be located to take custody of the body, or
(b) there is a person to take custody of the body, but that person cannot or will not assume financial responsibility for disposition of the body.
(B) If the body of a dead person is unidentifiable, the remains may not be cremated for at least thirty days. The coroner or medical examiner mustmay have the remains buried or interred in a cemetery in the county in which the remains were found.
(B)(C) If a coroner has possession of human remains that have been identified and the deceased person has been determined to be an unclaimed veteran, then the coroner must release the remains to a funeral home, funeral establishment, or mortuary for disposition pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 12, Title 25.
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator ADAMS proposed the following amendment (SJ-4188.PB0005S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 17-5-590(A)(1) and inserting:
(1) a body is unidentifiedunidentifiable if the dead person's identity is unknown or cannot be established after all available methods have been exhausted; and
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 17-5-590(B) and inserting:
(B) If the body of a dead person is unidentifiable or unclaimed, the remains may not be cremated for at least thirty days from the date of death or date of discovery. The coroner or medical examiner mustmay have the remains buried or interred in a cemetery in the county in which the remains were found.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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."
Senator CAMPSEN objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
Senator BENNETT objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
On motion of Senator CORBIN, the Bill was carried over.
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.
Senator HUTTO objected to consideration of the Bill.
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
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-4813.PB0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1.A., by striking Section 8-21-1010(C) and inserting:
(C) Any increase in fees and costs under subsection (A) which takes effect January 1, 2027, must be used to supplement, and not supplant, existing funds utilized to provide sufficient facilities, and personnel, and security for the necessary and proper operation of the magistrates courts in each county.
Amend the bill further, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 22-2-5(A) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(A) The South Carolina Court Administration, in cooperation with the technical college system, shall select and administer an eligibility examination to test basic skills of persons seeking an initial appointment as magistrate on or after July 1, 2001. In determining the persons to be recommended to the Governor for initial appointments as magistrates on or after July 1, 2001, a senatorial delegation must use the results of these eligibility examinations to assist in its selection of nominees. No person is eligible to be appointed as a magistrate unless he receives a passing score on the eligibility examination. The results of these eligibility examinations are valid for sixeighteen months before and sixeighteen months after the time the appointment is to be made.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Corbin Sutton
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (LC-5006.DG0005S), which was proposed:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting SECTION 5.B from the bill.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The question being the adoption of the amendment.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-5097.PB0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 6-1-145(D) and (E) and inserting:
(D) A roadside market is exempt from the provisions of the South Carolina Surface Water Withdrawal, Permitting Use, and Reporting Act, contained in Chapter 4, Title 4649.
(E) A roadside market seeking certification as a Certified Roadside Market by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture under the Roadside Market Incentive Program pursuant to Article 5, Chapter 19, Title 46 and regulations promulgated pursuant to that article may not be exempt from the requirements of that voluntary program by the provisions of this articlesection.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ELLIOTT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SEDU-5097.DB0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 6-1-145(A) and inserting:
(A) For purposes of this section, "roadside market" means a direct-to-consumer point located near a roadway on a farmer's leased or owned farm property that the farmer controls where an individual farmer sells farm products produced on his farm in this State to the general public, including fresh produce and farm goods such as honey, eggs, and jellies. A roadside market does not include multivendor farmers' markets or similar outlets. Hemp based products designed to be ingested are not permitted to be sold in a roadside market.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
On motion of Senator JOHNSON, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator ADAMS, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator REICHENBACH explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
Senator OTT raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
S. 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator ALLEN proposed the following amendment (SMIN-1151.MW0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 49-11-520(A) and (B) and inserting:
(A) After completion of construction of the replacement dam, as well as modifications to the historic dam and the associated appurtenances, and upon transfer from the Lake Conestee Dam Restoration Project, the authority shall assume ownership of the dam and its associated assets. Upon assumption of ownership of the dam, the authority must monitor the dam's condition to ensure that the dam is in good repair and operating condition and comply with the relevant statutory and regulatory requirements applicable to the dam, including, but not limited to, the conditions contained in the dam's operating permit. If the authority, or any regulatory authority with jurisdiction over the dam, determines that the dam is unsafe and a danger to life or property, then the authority must notify the governing bodies of Laurens County, Greenwood County, and Greenville County and notify the Department of Environmental Services pursuant to Section 49-11-170. The governing bodies of the three counties must work together with the authority to take such action as is necessary to bring the dam back into good repair and operating condition. If any funds are required to be expended pursuant to this act, the cost of such funds must be apportioned equally among the counties comprising the authority.
(B) The authority shall ensure that the Department of Environmental Services timely inspects the dam as provided in Article 3. If the department issues an order pursuant to Section 49-11-160 or Section 49-11-190, then the governing bodies of the three counties must work together with the authority to take such action as is necessary to take remedial action to correct deficiencies identified in the order. If any funds are required to be expended to take remedial action to correct deficiencies, the cost of such funds must be apportioned equally among the counties comprising the authority
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ALLEN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Resolution was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, the Resolution was carried over.
H. 3570 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Spann-Wilder, W. Newton, C. 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SJ-3570.PB0002S), which was proposed:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Section 8-13-320(10)(g) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(g) All investigations, inquiries, hearings, and accompanying documents are confidential and only may be released pursuant to this section.
(i) After a dismissal following a finding of probable cause, except for dismissal pursuant to item (10)(b), or a technical violation pursuant to Section 8-13-1170 or 8-13-1372, the following documents become public record: the complaint, the response by the respondent, and the notice of dismissal.
(ii) After a finding of probable cause, except for a technical violation pursuant to Section 8-13-1170 or 8-13-1372, the following documents become public record: the complaint, the response by the respondent, and the notice of hearing. If a hearing is held on the matter, the final order and all exhibits introduced at the hearing shall become public record upon issuance of the final order by the commission. Exhibits introduced must be redacted prior to release to exclude personal information where the public disclosure would constitute an unreasonable invasion of personal privacy. In the event a hearing is not held on a matter after a finding of probable cause, the final disposition of the matter becomes public record.
(iii) The commission shall redact the address, phone number, and email address of the complainant and respondent from the public record. The complainant shall not release the address, phone number, or email address of the respondent. The respondent shall not release the address, phone number, or email address of the complainant.
(iv) The respondent or his counsel, by written notice, may waive the confidentiality requirement. The commission shall not accept any partial waivers.
(v) The wilful release of confidential information is a misdemeanor, and a person releasing such confidential information, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than one year.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-365 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 8-13-365. The commission shall establish a system of electronic filing for all disclosures and reports required pursuant to Chapter 13, Title 8 and Chapter 17, Title 2 except for forms and reports required pursuant to Article 9, Chapter 13, Title 8. These disclosures and reports must be filed using an Internet-based filing system as prescribed by the commission. The information contained in the reports and disclosure forms, with the exception of addresses of individuals making contributions, social security numbers, campaign bank account numbers, and tax ID numbers, must be publicly accessible, searchable, and transferable.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-540(C) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(C)(1) All investigations, inquiries, hearings and accompanying documents are confidential and only may be released pursuant to this section.
(2)(a) Upon a recommendation of probable cause by the commission for a violation, other than a technical violation pursuant to Section 8-13-1170 or 8-13-1372, the following documents become public record: the complaint, the response by the respondent, and the commission's recommendation of probable cause.
(b) If the appropriate committee requests further investigation after receipt of the commission's report, documents only may be released if the commission's second report to the committee recommends a finding of probable cause.
(c) The commission and appropriate legislative ethics committee shall redact the address, phone number, and email address of the complainant and respondent from the public record. The complainant shall not release the address, phone number, or email address of the respondent. The respondent shall not release the address, phone number, or email address of the complainant.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-1366 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 8-13-1366. Certified campaign reports must be made available for public inspection at the office of the State Ethics Commission, the Senate Ethics Committee, the House of Representatives Ethics Committee, and the county clerk of court within two business days of receipt. The commission, ethics committees, and county clerks of court shall redact the addresses of individuals making contributions. The commission, ethics committees, and county clerks of court shall not require any information or identification as a condition of viewing a report or reports. The commission, ethics committees, and the county clerks of court must ensure that the reports are available for copying or purchase at a reasonable cost.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-1302(A) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(A) A candidate, committee, or ballot measure committee must maintain and preserve an account of:
(1) the total amount of contributions accepted by the candidate, committee, or ballot measure committee;
(2) the name and address of each person making a contribution and the amount and date of receipt of each contribution;
(3) the total amount of expenditures made by or on behalf of the candidate, committee, or ballot measure committee;
(4) the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure;
(5) all receipted bills, canceled checks, or other proof of payment for each expenditure; and
(6) the occupation and employer of each person making a contribution.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-1308(F) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(F) Certified campaign reports detailing campaign contributions and expenditures must contain:
(1) the total of contributions accepted by the candidate or committee;
(2) the name, and address, occupation, and employer of each person making a contribution of more than one hundred dollars and the amount and date of receipt of each contribution;
(3) the total expenditures made by or on behalf of the candidate or committee;
(4) the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made from campaign funds, including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-1309(E) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(E) Certified campaign reports detailing campaign contributions and expenditures must contain:
(1) the total amount of contributions accepted by the ballot measure committee;
(2) the name, and address, occupation, and employer of each person making a contribution of more than one hundred dollars and the amount and date of receipt of each contribution;
(3) the total amount of expenditures made by or on behalf of the ballot measure committee; and
(4) the name and address of each person to whom an expenditure is made from campaign funds, including the date, amount, purpose, and beneficiary of the expenditure.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-1314(A) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(A) Within an election cycle, a candidate or anyone acting on his behalf shall not solicit or accept, and a person shall not give or offer to give to a candidate or person acting on the candidate's behalf:
(1) a contribution which exceeds:
(a) three thousand five hundred dollars in the case of a candidate for statewide office; or
(b) three thousand five hundred dollars in the aggregate for statewide candidates elected jointly pursuant to Section 8, Article IV of the South Carolina Constitution, 1895; or
(c) one thousand dollars in the case of a candidate for any other office;
(2) a cash contribution from an individual unless the cash contribution does not exceed twenty-five dollars and is accompanied by a record of the amount of the contribution and the name, and address, occupation, and employer of the contributor;
(3) a contribution from, whether directly or indirectly, a registered lobbyist if that lobbyist engages in lobbying the public office or public body for which the candidate is seeking election;
(4) contributions for two elective offices simultaneously, except as provided in Section 8-13-1318.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-1360(A) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(A) The State Ethics Commission shall develop a contribution and expenditure reporting form which must include:
(1) a designation as a pre-election or quarterly report and, if a pre-election report, the election date;
(2) the candidate's name and address or, in the case of a committee, the name and address of the committee;
(3) the balance of campaign accounts on hand at the beginning and at the close of the reporting period and the location of those campaign accounts;
(4) the total amount of all contributions received during the reporting period; the total amount of contributions of one hundred dollars or less in the aggregate from one source received during the reporting period; and the name, and address, occupation, and employer of each person contributing more than one hundred dollars in the aggregate during the reporting period, the date and amount of the contribution, and the year-to-date total for each contributor. Written promises or pledges to make a contribution must be reported separately in the same manner as other monetary contributions;
(5) the total amount of all loans received during the reporting period and the total amount of loans for the year to date. The report also must include the date and amount of each loan from one source during the reporting period, the name and address of each maker or guarantor of each loan, the year-to-date total of each maker or guarantor, and the terms of the loan, including the interest rate, repayment terms, loan payments, and existing balances on each loan;
(6) the date and amount of any in-kind contributions of more than one hundred dollars in the aggregate by one person during the reporting period, and the contributor's name, address, occupation, and employer, and year-to-date total;
(7) the total amount of all refunds, rebates, interest, and other receipts not previously identified during the reporting period, and their year-to-date total; the total amount of other receipts received of one hundred dollars or less in the aggregate from one source during the reporting period; the date and amount of each refund, rebate, interest, or other receipt not previously identified of more than one hundred dollars in the aggregate from one source, the name and address and the year-to-date total for each source;
(8) the aggregate total of all contributions, loans, and other receipts during the reporting period and the year-to-date total; the amount, date, and a brief description of each expenditure made during the reporting period, the name and address of the entity to which the expenditure was made, and the year-to-date total of expenditures to that entity. Credit card expenses and candidate reimbursements must be itemized so that the purpose and recipient of the expenditure are identified;
(9) the total amount of all loans made during the reporting period and the year-to-date total. The report also must include the date and amount of each loan to one entity during the reporting period, the name and address of each recipient of the loan, and the terms of the loan, including the interest rate, repayment terms, purpose of the loan, the year-to-date total, and existing balances.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The question being the adoption of the amendment.
Senator GRAHAM 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.
Senator JOHNSON moved under Rule 37 to waive the provisions of Rule 39.
The motion was adopted.
Senator BENNETT continued explaining the amendment.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, the Bill was carried over.
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.
ADMINISTERED OR RECEIVED.
Senator TEDDER objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
On motion of Senator GARRETT, the Bill was carried over.
At 4:41 P.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator GARRETT explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
Senator ADAMS objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.
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 MASSEY moved that the Bill be made a Special Order.
The Bill was made a Special Order.
At 4:57 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
HAVING DISPENSED WITH THE MOTION PERIOD, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.
S. 449 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-43-245 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHARMACISTS AND PHYSICIANS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PHYSICIANS AND MISCELLANEOUS HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-205 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHYSICIANS AND PHARMACISTS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY AND THE STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS AND TO PROVIDE THAT COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS MAY NOT BE IMPLEMENTED UNTIL AFTER THE REGULATIONS ARE EFFECTIVE.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
H. 3556 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Schuessler, Guest, Taylor and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-17-560, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF A POLITICAL PARTY TO HEAR CERTAIN PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO ALSO HEAR PROTESTS AND CONTESTS IN THE CASE OF COUNTY OFFICERS, LESS THAN COUNTY OFFICERS, AND MUNICIPAL OFFICERS, TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO REQUIRE THE FILING OF ANY PROTEST OR CONTEST TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY A BOND WITH SURETY, AND TO PROVIDE FOR APPEALS FROM DECISIONS BY THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-17-570, RELATING TO HEARINGS OF PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO EXTEND THE TIME IN WHICH THE STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MUST CONDUCT SUCH HEARINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-80, RELATING TO MUNICIPAL PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SUCH PROTESTS AND CONTESTS ARE TO BE FILED, HEARD, AND DECIDED IN THE MANNER PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 7-17-560 AND 7-17-570; AND BY REPEALING SECTIONS 7-17-520, 7-17-530, 7-17-540, 7-17-550, 7-17-580, AND 7-17-590 ALL RELATING TO PRIMARY PROTESTS AND CONTESTS FOR CERTAIN OFFICES.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator CAMPSEN explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, with unanimous consent, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
Senators BRIGHT, MARTIN, RICE and FERNANDEZ desired to be recorded as voting against the concurrence of the Bill.
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.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
Senators MASSEY and BRIGHT desired to be recorded as voting against the concurrence of the Bill.
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.
On motion of Senator ELLIOTT, the Bill was carried over.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, Calhoun County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Calhoun County:
Hon. Jeffry P. Bloom, 2833 Old Belleville Road, St. Matthews, SC 29135
Reappointment, Calhoun County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Calhoun County:
Hon. Cassandra Keller, 165 Bair Road, St. Matthews, SC 29135
Reappointment, Calhoun County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Calhoun County:
Hon. Joseph D. Teague, Sr., 255 Boone Lane, Swansea, SC 29160
Reappointment, Clarendon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Clarendon County:
Hon. Janice L. Coney, 103 Gregory Street, Manning, SC 29102
Reappointment, Clarendon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Clarendon County:
Hon. Robin Locklear-Moody, 431 North Brooks Street, Manning, SC 29102
Reappointment, Clarendon County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Clarendon County:
Hon. Robert S. McCord, 2681 Greeleyville Highway, Manning, SC 29102
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Dean E. Ford, 445 East Curtis Street, Simpsonville, SC 29681
Reappointment, Hampton County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Hampton County:
Hon. Tonja Alexander, 207 Sharon Avenue, Hampton, SC 29924
Reappointment, McCormick County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
McCormick County:
Hon. John C. Long, 132 Antioch Drive, McCormick, SC 29835
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. James C. Alexander, 120 North Little River Road, Salem, SC 29676
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. William F. Derrick, Jr., 231 Stonehaven Way, Seneca, SC 29672
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. Erin C. McKinney, 15084 Beacon Ridge Drive, Seneca, SC 29678
Reappointment, Oconee County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Oconee County:
Hon. Daniel J. Pollock, 114 Old Station Road, West Union, SC 29696
Initial Appointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sumter County:
Don A. Florence, Sr., 1602 Bradham Boulevard, Sumter, SC 29153 VICE Larry Blanding
On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. David Lee McFarland III of Hartsville, S.C. David graduated from Benedict College with a bachelor's degree in social work and was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He began his career as a social worker for the South Carolina Department of Social Services and continued his career with the Darlington County Disabilities and Special Needs Board. David loved his fraternity brothers, the New York Knicks, Washington Commanders and Benedict College Tigers. He served as the Hartsville Chapter President of the Benedict College Alumni Association and was a faithful and dutiful member of Jerusalem Baptist Church where he served on the Usher Board. David was a loving son and devoted brother who will be dearly missed.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. John Christopher Pracht of Camden, S.C. Chris was a graduate of Wofford College. He was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1976 at the age of twenty-one where he served for eight years. Chris was a professional auctioneer. He served as president of the South Carolina Auctioneers Association and was inducted into the S.C. Auctioneers Hall of Fame in 2007. He was the treasurer of the National Auctioneers Association and was the first chairman of the NAA Education Institute Trustees. In 2014, Chris was named South Carolina bid calling champion and was inducted into the National Auctioneer's Hall of Fames in 2017. Chris later created the MarkNet Alliance. Chris was a member of Central Presbyterian Church in Anderson and a proud member of the Camden Rotary Club. Chris was a loving father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Calvin Leroy Wright of Huger, S.C. Calvin was the Orangeburg-Calhoun, Allendale and Bamberg Community Executive Director for more than five decades where he worked to empower and advocate for the disenfranchised. Calvin was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.
At 5:29 P.M., on motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 1:00 P.M.
This web page was last updated on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 7:03 P.M.