NO. 66
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.
A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:
Philippians 4:13
We read in Philippians where Paul declares: "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."
Bow with me as we pray, please: O gracious God, with only one more week remaining in this regular legislative session, we pause to reflect and to offer our heartfelt appreciation to You for blessing our Senators and their aides. Today and through next week -- indeed, likely for many years to come -- may all of these servants of the people continue to be strengthened and encouraged by You, O Lord. And grant that the beneficiaries of the good this Senate accomplishes be -- as ever -- all of the children, the women, and the men of this State we love. Further, dear Lord, we pray that You continue to hold in Your loving care all of those in uniform who faithfully labor to bring about peace, wherever in the world they happen to serve. All this we pray in Your wondrous name, dear Lord. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Reappointment, Allendale County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Allendale County:
Hon. Willard D. Branch, Jr., P.O. Box 57, Fairfax, SC 29827
Initial Appointment, Marion County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sharlene D. Fore, 6127 North Highway 501, Marion, SC 29571 VICE Kathy Byrd Bass
On motion of Senator GOLDFINCH, at 11:08 A.M., Senator CLIMER was granted a leave of absence until 11:30 A.M.
On motion of Senator FERNANDEZ, at 11:14 A.M., Senator LEBER was granted a leave of absence until 12:00 P.M.
On motion of Senator GRAMBRELL, at 1:35 P.M., Senator CROMER was granted a leave of absence until 3:00 P.M.
On motion of Senator GAMBRELL, at 3:52 P.M., Senator GOLDFINCH was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator DAVIS, at 3:52 P.M., Senator KIMBRELL was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator OTT, at 3:52 P.M., Senator TEDDER was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
At 11:30 A.M., on motion of Senator HUTTO, the Senate receded from business.
At 12:27 P.M., the Senate resumed.
Senator MARTIN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator CORBIN, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator MARTIN, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator BLACKMON rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
The following co-sponsor was added to the respective Bill:
S. 920 (Word version) Sen. Devine
H. 3927 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Hiott, G.M. Smith, Bailey, Ballentine, Bannister, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Bustos, Caskey, Chapman, B.J. Cox, B.L. Cox, Crawford, Davis, Erickson, Forrest, Gagnon, Gatch, Gibson, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Hartnett, Hartz, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hixon, Holman, J.E. Johnson, Jordan, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Martin, McCravy, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, T. Moore, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Robbins, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, M.M. Smith, Taylor, Teeple, Vaughan, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Willis, Wooten, Yow, Terribile, Pace, Kilmartin, Beach, Edgerton, Magnuson, Cromer, Huff and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "ENDING ILLEGAL DISCRIMINATION AND RESTORING MERIT-BASED OPPORTUNITY ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 29 TO CHAPTER 1, TITLE 1 SO AS TO PROHIBIT EVERY OFFICE, DIVISION, OR OTHER UNIT BY ANY NAME OF EVERY OFFICE OR DEPARTMENT OF THIS STATE, AND ALL OF ITS POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS, INCLUDING ALL INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS, FROM PROMOTING DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS; AND TO PROMOTE INDIVIDUAL INITIATIVE, EXCELLENCE, AND HARD WORK; AND TO SPECIFY APPLICABILITY.
Senator CORBIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.
Senator MATTHEWS objected.
H. 5217 (Word version) -- Reps. Hixon, Haddon, Forrest and Luck: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-9-650, RELATING TO DEER HUNTING, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF ANTERLESS DEER TAGS AND DECREASE THE NUMBER OF ANTLERED DEER TAGS.
Senator CAMPSEN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
The following were introduced:
S. 1183 (Word version) -- Senator Graham: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR RAFTING CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FOR ITS SERVICE TO THE REMBERT COMMUNITY AND TO THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1184 (Word version) -- Senator Walker: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE CURTIS M. SINGLETON FOR TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF DEDICATED AND DISTINGUISHED SERVICE TO LAW ENFORCEMENT IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, FOR HIS HONORABLE MILITARY SERVICE, AND FOR HIS CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO PUBLIC SAFETY, ADVOCACY, COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP, AND MENTORSHIP.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1185 (Word version) -- Senator Walker: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DR. TYLA AMOREE MCDOWELL UPON THE COMPLETION OF HER DOCTOR OF PHARMACY AND TO COMMEND HER COMMITMENT TO ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND THE FIELD OF MEDICINE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1186 (Word version) -- Senator Walker: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND AND HONOR THERESA P. FOGLE FOR FIFTY YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE AND DEDICATION AS AN EDUCATOR IN FLORIDA AND SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1187 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell, 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 and Zell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE MAY 17-23, 2026, AS "EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK" IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO RECOGNIZE THE ESSENTIAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PROFESSIONALS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
H. 5641 (Word version) -- Reps. Jordan and Lowe: A BILL TO REPEAL ACT 989 OF 1948 RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE FLORENCE MEMORIAL STADIUM COMMISSION.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:
H. 4382 (Word version) -- Rep. Sessions: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-398, RELATING TO THE SALE OF PRODUCTS CONTAINING EPHEDRINE OR PSEUDOEPHEDRINE; SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT MANUFACTURERS OF THESE PRODUCTS PAY MONTHLY FEES ASSOCIATED WITH DATA COLLECTION AND TO ESTABLISH A PENALTY FOR FAILURE OF MANUFACTURERS TO COMPLY.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator CROMER from the Committee on Banking and Insurance submitted a favorable report on:
Initial Appointment, State Board of Financial Institutions, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2028
Cooperative Credit Unions:
Keven D. Owens, 1228 Grimes Street, Georgetown, SC 29440 VICE Jennifer Michaels
Received as information.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, Real Estate Appraisers Board, with the term to commence May 31, 2026, and to expire May 31, 2029
Licensed or Certified Appraiser:
Pledger M. Bishop III, 918 Tall Pine Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Athletic Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
1st Congressional District:
Coleman L. Bates, 1227 Pherigo Street, Apt. 118, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464-4518
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Barber Examiners, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
Master Haircare Specialist:
Paul E. Robinson, P.O. Box 682, Orangeburg, SC 29116
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina Real Estate Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
Public:
Thomas F. Dugas, 120 Woodland Way, Greenville, SC 29601
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Cosmetology, with the term to commence March 20, 2025, and to expire March 20, 2029
Cosmetologist:
Ashley Tucker-Johnson, 208 Alice Farr Drive, Greenville, SC 29617-1506
Received as information.
Reappointment, Advisory Panel for Massage/Bodywork Therapy, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
Massage/Bodywork Therapist:
Gloria Lee Smith, 201 Corley Woods Drive, Lexington, SC 29072-3845
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina Residential Builders Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2025, and to expire June 30, 2029
2nd Congressional District:
Earl E. McLeod, Jr., 317 Country Lake Court, Lexington, SC 29072
Received as information.
Reappointment, State Board of Barber Examiners, with the term to commence June 30, 2026, and to expire June 30, 2030
Barber:
Renee H. Patton, 5535 Highway 9, Suite C, Inman, SC 29349
Received as information.
Senator YOUNG from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services submitted a favorable report on:
Initial Appointment, Vocational Rehabilitation, with the term to commence May 15, 2024, and to expire May 15, 2031
3rd Congressional District:
Sheila Cobb Ford, 1011 Latimer Road, Anderson, SC 29625 VICE Timothy W. Evatt
Received as information.
Senator MARTIN from the Committee on Corrections and Penology submitted a favorable report on:
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Board of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, with the term to commence March 15, 2023, and to expire March 15, 2029
7th Congressional District:
Eric Lewis, 129 Point Break Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588 VICE Kimberly H. Frederick
Received as information.
Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, with the term to commence June 1, 2026, and to expire June 1, 2030
Public:
Michael Leonard, 519 Capital Place, Columbia, SC 29205-2611
Received as information.
Reappointment, State Board of Examiners of Long Term Care Administrators, with the term to commence June 9, 2026, and to expire June 9, 2029
Residential Care Administrator:
Edward G. Burton, 103 Stonecrest Road, Greer, SC 29650-3422
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy, with the term to commence September 30, 2026, and to expire September 30, 2029
Occupational Therapist:
Nadine Hanner, 1797 Central Ave., Summerville, SC 29483-9323
Received as information.
Reappointment, Donate Life South Carolina, with the term to commence April 1, 2024, and to expire April 1, 2028
At-Large:
Thomas F. Dougall, 209 Redbay Road, Elgin, SC 29045
Received as information.
Reappointment, Donate Life South Carolina, with the term to commence April 1, 2024, and to expire April 1, 2028
Lowcountry:
Michael F. Cuenin, 1513 Appling Drive, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464-4689
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina Panel for Dietetics, with the term to commence March 30, 2025, and to expire March 30, 2027
Hospital Employee:
Maureen Elisabeth Finger, 1325 Sewanee Avenue, Florence, SC 29501
Received as information.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Board of Podiatry Examiners, with the term to commence December 21, 2022, and to expire December 21, 2026
William Harris IV, 1885 Overbrook Drive, Rock Hill, SC 29732-1536
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 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. 454 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-40, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS, SO AS TO CHANGE REFERENCES FROM "SPONSOR" TO "AUTHORIZER" AND TO PROVIDE OTHER DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-50, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE A CHARTER SCHOOL TO POST THEIR ANNUAL AUDIT ON THEIR WEBSITE AND TO NOTIFY AND PROVIDE A COPY OF ANY EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CONTRACTS TO THE AUTHORIZER; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-55, RELATING TO AUTHORIZER POWERS AND DUTIES AND THE RETENTION OF FUNDS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE AUTHORIZER TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND PRACTICES THAT ENSURE GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-60, RELATING TO CHARTER APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO EXPAND THE CHARTER SCHOOL APPLICATION TO INCLUDE ANY PROPOSED CHARTER OR EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CONTRACTS CONTEMPLATED BY THE CHARTER SCHOOL; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-70, RELATING TO APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES, SO AS TO SET A TIME FRAME TO HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE APPLICATION FOR A CHARTER SCHOOL; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-75, RELATING TO THE REMOVAL OF AN AUTHORIZER OR MEMBER OF A DISTRICT OR GOVERNING BOARD, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE GOVERNOR TO VACATE THE SEAT OF A MEMBER OF AN AUTHORIZER OR CHARTER SCHOOL GOVERNING BOARD WHO IS INDICTED FOR A CRIME; AND TO ALLOW THE GOVERNOR TO REMOVE A MEMBER FOR CHRONIC UNEXCUSED ABSENTEEISM, MEDICAL INCOMPETENCY, OR MEDICAL INCAPACITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-90, RELATING TO APPEALS TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SO AS TO ALLOW AN APPEAL FOR ANY FINAL DECISION MADE PURSUANT TO THIS CHAPTER BE MADE TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-115, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF A CONTRACT WITH AN AUTHORIZER, SO AS TO ALLOW A CHARTER SCHOOL TO TERMINATE ITS CHARTER AND CONTRACT WITH AN AUTHORIZER UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-150, RELATING TO THE DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO SERVE AS THE STATE EDUCATION AGENCY FOR EACH AUTHORIZER AND ANNUALLY REVIEW THE POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND PERFORMANCE OF EACH AUTHORIZER FOR COMPLIANCE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-180, RELATING TO REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT GUIDELINES WILL BE APPLICABLE TO NEW AUTHORIZERS AND CHARTER SCHOOLS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon the amendments proposed by the House to:
H. 5126 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2026, TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
asks for a Committee of Conference, and has appointed Reps. Bannister, Hiott and Hayes to the committee on the part of the House.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
H. 5126 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2026, TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Whereupon, Senators PEELER, HUTTO and DAVIS were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
S. 1133 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Young, Adams, Alexander, Allen, Blackmon, Campsen, Cash, Chaplin, Climer, Corbin, Cromer, Davis, Devine, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Garrett, Goldfinch, Graham, Grooms, Hembree, Jackson, Johnson, Kennedy, Kimbrell, Leber, Martin, Massey, Matthews, Peeler, Rankin, Reichenbach, Rice, Sabb, Stubbs, Sutton, Tedder, Turner, Verdin, Walker, Williams and Zell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF HIGHWAY 78 FROM THE BAMBERG COUNTY LINE TO THE AIKEN COUNTY LINE THE "LONNIE HOSEY PURPLE HEART HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 1181 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MELINDA POUNDER OF JENNIE MOORE ELEMENTARY IN MOUNT PLEASANT AND TO CONGRATULATE HER UPON BEING CHOSEN AS AN EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATOR BY CURRICULUM ASSOCIATES.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:
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.
On motion of Senator MARTIN.
S. 26 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 50-21-107 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT OWNERS OF WATERCRAFT OF MORE THAN SEVENTY HORSEPOWER MUST CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE OF AT LEAST FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS OF COVERAGE PER OCCURRENCE, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE COLLECTION OF FINES.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
The following Bills were read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
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.
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.
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.
H. 3021 (Word version) -- Reps. Bradley, G.M. Smith, Herbkersman, Lawson, B. Newton, Wooten, C. Mitchell, Pope, Guffey, Neese, Martin, Chapman, Pedalino, McCravy, Chumley, W. Newton, Taylor, Hewitt, Schuessler, Davis, M.M. Smith, Long, Sanders, Teeple, Gagnon, Hixon, Erickson, Hager, Ballentine, Calhoon, Holman, Moss, Gilreath, Gilliam, Rankin, Vaughan, B.L. Cox, Ligon, Oremus, Hartz, Guest, Crawford, Robbins, Forrest, Magnuson, Willis, Brewer, Gibson and Hiott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SMALL BUSINESS REGULATORY FREEDOM ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 1-23-285 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE SMALL BUSINESS REGULATORY REVIEW COMMITTEE SHALL CONDUCT AN INITIAL REVIEW OF REGULATIONS PENDING REAUTHORIZATION AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FOR RETAINING OR REMOVING REGULATIONS, TO PROVIDE IT IS THE DUTY OF THE COMMITTEE WHEN REVIEWING REGULATIONS TO REDUCE THE OVERALL REGULATORY BURDEN ON BUSINESSES BY REDUCING THE NUMBER OF REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS BY TWENTY-FIVE PERCENT, AND TO PROVIDE THE COMMITTEE MAY REQUEST ANY NECESSARY INFORMATION FROM STATE AGENCIES AND TO REQUIRE THE COMPLIANCE OF AGENCIES WITH THESE REQUESTS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-23-110, RELATING TO THE PROCESS FOR PROMULGATING REGULATIONS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ACT SO AS TO PROVIDE AGENCIES MAY NOT PROMULGATE REGULATIONS ABSENT EXPRESS STATUTORY AUTHORITY AND CITATION TO THE SPECIFIC STATUTORY AUTHORITY, TO PROVIDE FOR EVERY REGULATION AN AGENCY PROPOSES, IT MUST IDENTIFY AND PROPOSE TWO OF ITS REGULATIONS TO REMOVE, TO PROVIDE PERSONS AGGRIEVED BY A REGULATION MAY CHALLENGE THE VALIDITY OF THE REGULATION IN A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION, AND TO PROVIDE COURTS MAY DECLARE REGULATIONS INVALID UPON FINDING AN ABSENCE OF EXPRESS STATUTORY AUTHORITY TO PROMULGATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-23-115, RELATING TO ASSESSMENT REPORTS FOR REGULATIONS SUBMITTED FOR PROMULGATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE ALL REGULATIONS SUBMITTED FOR PROMULGATION MUST INCLUDE ASSESSMENT REPORTS, TO ALLOW LONGER REVIEW PERIODS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE DISCOUNT RATES MUST BE JUSTIFIED IF APPLIED IN AN ANALYSIS REPORT, TO PROVIDE PROMULGATING AGENCIES MUST CONDUCT RETROSPECTIVE ASSESSMENT REPORTS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE ASSESSMENT CONTENTS MUST BE MADE PUBLICLY AVAILABLE IN A CERTAIN MANNER, TO PROVIDE CERTAIN STANDARDIZED ANALYTIC METHODS AND METRICS MUST BE APPLIED TO ALL REGULATIONS, TO REQUIRE RETROSPECTIVE ASSESSMENT REPORTS BE CONDUCTED WHEN REGULATIONS ARE REVIEWED FOR RENEWAL, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-23-120, RELATING TO DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO BE FILED TO INITIATE THE REVIEW PROCESS FOR A REGULATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DOCUMENTS INCLUDE AN AUTOMATIC EXPIRATION DATE, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE AUTOMATIC EXPIRATION AND PERIODIC REVIEW OF REGULATIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 1-23-380, RELATING TO JUDICIAL REVIEW UPON EXHAUSTION OF ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW OF AGENCY INTERPRETATIONS OF REGULATIONS.
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 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. 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."
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
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator CAMPSEN proposed the following amendment (SFGF-4804.BC0002S), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X.A. Section 24-21-10(B) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(B) The Board of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services is composed of seven fourteen members. The terms of office of the members are for six years. Each of the seven Seven members must be appointed from each of the congressional districts and seven members must be appointed from the State at large. At least one appointee shall have at least five years of work or volunteer experience in one or more of the following fields: parole, probation, corrections, criminal justice, law, law enforcement, psychology, psychiatry, sociology, or social work. Vacancies must be filled by gubernatorial appointment with the advice and consent of the Senate for the unexpired term. If a vacancy occurs during a recess of the Senate, the Governor may fill the vacancy by appointment for the unexpired term pending the consent of the Senate, provided the appointment is received for confirmation on the first day of the Senate's next meeting following the vacancy. A chairman must be elected annually by a majority of the membership of the board. The chairman may serve consecutive terms.
B. Notwithstanding Section 24-21-10, the expiration dates for the initial terms of the seven members of the board, as added by this act, must be staggered as follows:
(1) the terms of two members, as designated by the Governor, expire on March 15, 2029;
(2) the terms of two members, as designated by the Governor, expire on March 15, 2031; and
(3) the terms of three members, as designated by the Governor, expire on March 15, 2033.
SECTION X. Section 24-21-30 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 24-21-30. (A) A person who commits a "no parole offense" as defined in Section 24-13-100 on or after the effective date of this section is not eligible for parole consideration, but must complete a community supervision program as set forth in Section 24-21-560 prior to discharge from the sentence imposed by the court. For all offenders who are eligible for parole, the board shall hold regular meetings, as may be necessary to carry out its duties, but at least four times each year, and as many extra meetings as the chairman, or the Governor acting through the chairman, may order. The board may preserve order at its meetings and punish any disrespect or contempt committed in its presence. The chairman may must direct the members of the board to meet as three-member panels or seven-member panels to hear matters relating to paroles and pardons as often as necessary to carry out the board's responsibilities. Membership on these panels shall be periodically rotated on a random basis by the chairman. At the meetings of the panels, any unanimous vote shall be considered the final decision of the board, and the panel may issue an order of parole with the same force and effect of an order issued by the full board pursuant to Section 24-21-650. Any vote that is not unanimous shall not be considered as a decision of the board, and the matter shall be referred to the full board which shall decide it based on a vote of a majority of the membership.
(B) The board may grant parole to an offender who commits a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60 which is not included as a "no parole offense" as defined in Section 24-13-100 on or after the effective date of this section by a two-thirds majority vote of the full board a seven-member panel. The board may grant parole to an offender convicted of an offense which is not a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60 or a "no parole offense" as defined in Section 24-13-100 by a unanimous vote of a three-member panel or by a majority vote of the full boarda seven-member panel.
Nothing in this subsection may be construed to allow any person who commits a "no parole offense" as defined in Section 24-13-100 on or after the effective date of this section to be eligible for parole.
(C) The board shall conduct all parole hearings in cases that relate to a single victim on the same day.
(D) Upon the request of a victim, the board may allow the victim and an offender to appear simultaneously before the board for the purpose of providing testimony.
SECTION X. Section 24-21-620 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 24-21-620. Within the ninety-day period preceding a prisoner having served one-fourth of his sentence, the board, either acting in a three-member panel or a seven-member panel, or meeting as a full board, shall review the case, regardless of whether or not any application has been made therefor, for the purpose of determining whether or not such prisoner is entitled to any of the benefits provided for in this chapter; provided, that in cases of prisoners in confinement due to convictions for nonviolent crimes, an administrative hearing officer may be appointed by the director to review the case who must submit to the full board written findings of fact and recommendations which shall be the basis for a determination by the board. Upon an affirmative determination, the prisoner must be granted a provisional parole or parole. Upon a negative determination, the prisoner's case shall be reviewed every twelve months thereafter for the purpose of such determination.
SECTION X. Section 24-21-645(A) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(A) The board may issue an order authorizing the parole, signed ninety days prior to its effective date, signed either by a majority of its membersa seven-member panel or by all three members meeting as a parole panelof a three-member panel on the case ninety days prior to the effective date of the parole; however, at least two-thirds of the members of the boarda seven-member panel must authorize and sign orders authorizing parole for persons convicted of a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60. A provisional parole order shall include the terms and conditions, if any, to be met by the prisoner during the provisional period and terms and conditions, if any, to be met upon parole.
SECTION X. Section 24-21-650 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 24-21-650. The board shall issue an order authorizing the parole which must be signed by at least a majority of its members with terms and conditions, if any, but at least two-thirds of the members of the board must sign orders authorizing parole for persons convicted of a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60. Upon authorization of parole under this chapter, with terms and conditions, if any, Thethe director, or one lawfully acting for him, then must issue a parole order which, if accepted by the prisoner, provides for his release from custody. Upon a negative determination of parole, prisoners in confinement for a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60 must have their cases reviewed every two years for the purpose of a determination of parole.
SECTION X. Section 24-21-930 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 24-21-930. An order of pardon must be signed by at least two-thirds of the members of a seven-member panel of the board. Upon the issue of the order by the board, the director, or one lawfully acting for him, must issue a pardon order which provides for the restoration of the pardon applicant's civil rights.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 5 and inserting:
SECTION 5. This act takesSections 1, 2, 3 and 4 take effect upon approval by the Governor. All other Sections take effect on January 13, 2027.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator CAMPSEN explained the amendment.
Senator MATTHEWS raised a Point of Order under Rule 24A that the amendment was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the Bill.
Senator CAMPSEN spoke on Point.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
The amendment was ruled out of order.
The question being third reading of the Bill.
There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
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 JOHNSON proposed the following amendment (LC-5006.DG0010S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X.A. Section 12-37-220(B)(11) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(11)(a) all property of nonprofit housing corporations devoted exclusively to providing below-cost housing for the aged or for handicapped persons or for both aged and handicapped persons as authorized by Section 202 of the Housing Act of 1959 and regulated in part by 24 C.F.R. Part 885;
(b) all property of nonprofit housing corporations devoted exclusively to providing below-cost supportive housing for elderly persons or households as authorized by Section 202 of the Housing Act of 1959 as amended under Section 801 of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 and regulated in part by 24 C.F.R. Part 889;
(c) all property of nonprofit housing corporations devoted exclusively to providing below-cost supportive housing for persons with disabilities as authorized by Section 811 of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 and regulated in part by 24 C.F.R. Part 890;
(d) all property of nonprofit housing corporations devoted exclusively to providing rental or cooperative housing and related facilities for elderly or handicapped persons or families of low or moderate income as authorized by Section 515 of Title V of the Housing Act of 1949;
(e)(i) all property of nonprofit housing corporations or instrumentalities of these corporations when the property is devoted to providing housing to low or very low income residents. A Except as otherwise provided in this subitem, a nonprofit housing corporation or its instrumentality must satisfy the safe harbor provisions of Revenue Procedure 96-32 issued by the Internal Revenue Service for this exemption to apply. For purposes of this subitem, property of nonprofit housing corporations or instrumentalities of these corporations includes all leasehold interests in property owned by an entity that provides housing accommodations to persons of low or very low income, and in which a wholly owned affiliate or wholly owned instrumentality of a nonprofit housing corporation is the general partner, managing member, or the equivalent. However, except as otherwise provided in this subitem, the exemption allowed by this subitem only applies if the property of nonprofit housing corporations or instrumentalities of these corporations satisfies the safe harbor provisions of Revenue Procedure 96-32 issued by the Internal Revenue Service;
(ii) the exemption allowed by this subitem must be proportionate to the nonprofit housing corporation's percentage of direct or indirect ownership in the qualifying property, except that if:
(A) the nonprofit housing corporation's percentage of direct or indirect ownership interest in the qualifying property exceeds fifty percent; or
(B) notwithstanding the unit mix prescribed by the safe harbor provisions of Revenue Procedure 96-32, all of the units in the property are devoted to providing housing to residents who qualify as low income under Revenue Procedure 96-32, then the exemption allowed by this subitem equals one hundred percent;
(iii) to claim the exemption allowed by this subitem, the nonprofit housing corporation or its instrumentality must apply to the department and certify the nonprofit housing corporation's percentage of direct or indirect ownership in the property and provide a rent roll or other suitable documentation evidencing compliance with the requirements of Revenue Procedure 96-32, as applicable. Such initial certification must be made by the first penalty date for the property tax year in which the exemption is first claimed for the property. In each subsequent year in which the exemption allowed by this subitem is claimed, the nonprofit housing corporation or its instrumentality must submit an annual certification to the department by October first. The annual certification must provide the current percentage of the nonprofit housing corporation's direct or indirect ownership in the property and current rent roll or other suitable documentation evidencing compliance with the requirements of Revenue Procedure 96-32, as applicable. The department shall prescribe the form of the application and certification required by this subitem as well as the penalties for noncompliance. The eligibility and transition rules provided in the safe harbor provisions of Revenue Procedure 96-32 must be taken into account by the department in determining compliance. Compliance with this subitem does not require displacement of any tenant before the termination of the tenant's lease agreement;
(iv) no later than sixty calendar days following the notification to any nonprofit housing corporation or its instrumentality of an approved exemption under this subitem, the department shall also notify the chief administrative officer of any county and, as applicable, any municipality with jurisdiction over property determined to be exempt under this subitem;
B. This SECTION takes effect upon approval by the Governor and applies prospectively to property of nonprofit housing corporations or their instrumentalities eligible and first making application for the exemption for property tax years beginning after 2026. This SECTION shall not apply to any project that, prior to approval by the Governor of this act, had submitted an application or been approved for an exemption under Section 12-37-220(B)(11)(e). Provided, however, all exempt projects under Section 12-37-220(B)(11)(e) are required to submit the required annual certifications to the department.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator JOHNSON explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the third 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
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator VERDIN proposed the following amendment (SR-4635.CEM0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-79-60(4) and inserting:
(4) provide for an a one month automatic renewal option, for a duration of no longer than one month, which to be enforceable must be disclosed in bold type of at least fourteen-point font on the front page of the contract and must be initialed by the customer. The customer will be given the ability to opt-in to may accept the automatic renewal provision at the time the initial contract is executed by initialing an opt-in provision. Near No later than ten days before the expiration of the initial contract, the facility shall notify the customer in writing at the customer's last known address or electronically, by means specified in the initial contract, of the automatic renewal option which the customer selected at the time the initial contract was executed. Price may not increase or decrease in an automatically renewed contract without written notice to the customer of at least thirty but not more than sixty days prior to the effective date of the change in price;
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GARRETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the third 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
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
At 12:54 P.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.
The following Bills were read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator KIMBRELL proposed the following amendment (SR-5093.CEM0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 12-36-2120(79) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(79)(H) For purposes of this item, "taxpayer" includes a person who bears a relationship to the taxpayer as described in Section 267(b) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator KIMBRELL explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the third 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
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-5537.MW0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Notwithstanding Sections 1-11-58 and 25-1-1660 of the S.C. Code, the Department of Administration, the State Fiscal Accountability Authority, or the appropriate agency, is directed to transfer ownership of the National Guard Armory located at 10233 Marlboro Avenue, Barnwell, South Carolina, to Barnwell County.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, under Rule 26B, the Senate agreed to take up a further amendment on third reading.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the third reading of the Resolution.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell 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 Resolution as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
S. 180 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO DOMESTIC ABUSE, SO AS TO INCLUDE PERSONS WHO ARE OR WERE DATING TO THE LIST OF PERSONS DEFINED AS "HOUSEHOLD MEMBER"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-40, RELATING TO PETITIONS FOR AN ORDER OF PROTECTION, SO AS TO INCLUDE A PARENT, GUARDIAN, LEGAL COUNSEL, OR OTHER APPROPRIATE ADULT AS A PERSON WHO CAN PETITION ON BEHALF MINORS IN THE PERSON'S HOUSEHOLD.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 3569 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Pope, Davis, Cobb-Hunter, Wetmore, Henderson-Myers, Erickson, Rivers and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-40-350 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTIAL TENANTS WHO ARE VICTIMS OF CERTAIN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENSES MAY TERMINATE A RENTAL AGREEMENT AND TO PROVIDE FOR NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-210, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator ADAMS explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator YOUNG asked unanimous consent to make a motion to give the Bill a second reading, carry over all amendments and waive the provisions of Rule 26B in order to allow amendments to be considered on third reading.
There was no objection.
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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)
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator VERDIN explained the Bill.
The question then was second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott 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
Bright Climer Fernandez
The Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
H. 5164 (Word version) -- Reps. Hewitt, Bannister, G.M. Smith and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-255 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FIRE AND BUILDING CODE EXCEPTIONS FOR PLACEMENT OF HOSPITAL BEDS IN HALLWAYS, CORRIDORS, OR OTHER MEANS OF EGRESS DURING JUSTIFIED EMERGENCIES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator GRAHAM proposed the following amendment (LC-5164.VR0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X.A. Chapter 7, Title 44 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 44-7-387. (A) As used in this section:
(1) "Surgical smoke" means the gaseous by-product produced by energy-generating devices such as lasers and electrosurgical devices. The term includes, but is not limited to, surgical plume, smoke plume, bio-aerosols, laser-generated airborne contaminants, or lung-damaging dust.
(2) "Smoke evacuation system" means equipment that effectively captures and filters surgical smoke before the smoke makes contact with the eyes or the respiratory tract of occupants in the room.
(3) "Licensed facility" means a hospital or ambulatory surgical facility as defined in Section 44-7-130.
(B) A licensed facility must adopt and implement policies to mitigate exposure to surgical smoke by utilizing a smoke evacuation system or other appropriate measure during any surgical procedure that is likely to generate surgical smoke.
B. This SECTION takes effect on July 1, 2027, except that for the following hospitals this SECTION takes effect January 1, 2028:
(1) hospitals certified as critical access hospitals pursuant to 42 U.S.C. Section 1395i-4;
(2) hospitals with fewer than fifty acute care beds in operation;
(3) hospitals certified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services as sole community hospitals;
(4) hospitals that qualify as a Medicare dependent hospital; and
(5) hospitals with six or fewer operating rooms.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 2 and inserting:
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor, except as provided otherwise in the SECTION adding Section 44-7-387.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GRAHAM explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell 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. 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.
Senator ELLIOTT 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.
On motion of Senator JOHNSON, the Bill was carried over.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-3335.PB0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Chapter 3, Title 31 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 31-3-70. A housing authority may designate an employee or a manager to represent the housing authority in magistrates court as provided in Section 33-1-103.
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 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
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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 MATTHEWS, the Bill was carried over.
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."
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (SF-4337.AA0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 2-15-130, by adding a subsection to read:
(C) Prior to issuance of a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum or making application for a contempt order pursuant to this section, the Council shall approve such action by a majority of the voting members.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator YOUNG explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator ALEXANDER proposed the following amendment (SF-4337.AA0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 2-15-50 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 2-15-50. For the purpose of this chapter "state agencies" means all officers, departments, boards, commissions, institutions, universities, colleges, charter school sponsors as defined in Section 58-40-40, bodies politic and corporate of the State and any other person or any other administrative unit of state government or corporate outgrowth of state government, expending or encumbering state funds by virtue of an appropriation from the General Assembly, or handling money on behalf of the State, or holding any trust funds from any source derived, but does not mean or include counties.
For the purposes of this chapter, "audit" means a full-scope examination of and investigation into all state agency matters necessary to make a determination of:
(a)(1) whether the entity is acquiring, protecting, and using its resources, such as personnel, property, and space, economically and efficiently;
(2) the causes of inefficiencies or uneconomical practices; and
(3) whether the entity has complied with laws and regulations concerning matters of economy and efficiency; and
(b)(1) the extent to which the desired results or benefits established by the General Assembly or other authorizing body are achieved;
(2) the effectiveness of organizations, programs, activities, or functions and whether these organizations, programs, activities, or functions should be continued, revised, or eliminated; and
(3) whether the entity has complied with laws and regulations applicable to the program.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 2-15-61(A) and inserting:
(A) For the purposes of carrying out its audit duties under this chapter, the Legislative Audit Council shall have access to theall records and facilities, irrespective of confidentiality, of every state agency during that agency's operating hours with the exception of reports and returns of the South Carolina Department of Revenue as provided in Sections 12-7-1680 and 12-35-1530. Staff of the Legislative Audit Council shall have access to the persons and facilities of every state agency during that agency's operating hours. Staff of the Legislative Audit Council shall have access to all relevant records and facilities of any private organization receiving state or federal public funds relating to the management and expenditures of state or federal public funds during the organization's normal operating hours. Staff of the Legislative Audit Council shall not have access to the records of private organizations that are not related to the management and expenditures of state or federal public funds. The Legislative Audit Council must be permitted to observe the proceedings of any state agency, board, commission, or other body corporate and politic including, but not limited to, executive sessions and closed hearings. The Legislative Audit Council must be permitted to observe the proceedings, including executive sessions and closed hearings of private organizations, to the extent that the proceedings discuss the management and expenditures of state or federal public funds.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 2-15-61(D)(1) and (2) and inserting:
(1) "Access to records" means, but is not limited to, the production of records and the ability to inspect, print, copy, download, and otherwise obtain records from an agency or private organization receiving state or federal public funds upon request by the Legislative Audit Council for the purpose of placing in Legislative Audit Council records.
(2) "Records" means, but is not limited to, data, reports, audits, documents, correspondence, emails, text messages, maps, photographs, recordings, contracts, or other materials and information, regardless of physical or electronic form or storage, prepared, owned, used, received, in the possession, custody, or control of, or retained by the agency or private organization receiving state or federal public funds, whether confidential or not. Unless requested or approved by Legislative Audit Council staff, no records are to be provided with redactions or omissions. The Legislative Audit Council must follow appropriate procedures to ensure the confidentiality and security of this information.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator YOUNG explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators YOUNG, CAMPSEN, and HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SF-4337.AA0009S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 2-15-130(C) and inserting:
(C) Prior to issuance of a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum or making application for a contempt order pursuant to this section, the Council shall approve such action by a majority of the voting members and must obtain written approval from either the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 2-15-61(A) and inserting:
(A) For the purposes of carrying out its audit duties under this chapter, the Legislative Audit Council shall have access to theall records and facilities, irrespective of confidentiality, of every state agency during that agency's operating hours with the exception of reports and returns of the South Carolina Department of Revenue as provided in Sections 12-7-1680 and 12-35-1530. Staff of the Legislative Audit Council shall have access to the persons and facilities of every state agency during that agency's operating hours. Staff of the Legislative Audit Council shall have access to all relevant records and facilities of any private organization receiving state or federal public funds relating to the management and expenditures of state or federal public funds during the organization's normal operating hours. Staff of the Legislative Audit Council shall not have access to the records of private organizations that are not related to the management and expenditures of state or federal public funds. The Legislative Audit Council must be permitted to observe the proceedings of any state agency, board, or commission, except for executive sessions., or other body corporate and politic including, but not limited to, executive sessions and closed hearings. The Legislative Audit Council must be permitted to observe the proceedings, including executive sessions and closed hearings of private organizations, to the extent that the proceedings discuss the management and expenditures of state or federal public funds.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 2-15-61(C) and inserting:
(C) Any person who willfully fails to comply with the provisions of this section or otherwise willfully obstructs the Legislative Audit Council from conducting a duly authorized audit is guilty of a misdemeanor and may be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than one year. If the person convicted is an officer or employee of the State, the person must may be dismissed from office or employment. and is ineligible to hold any public office in this State for a period of five years after the conviction
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator YOUNG explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator YOUNG proposed the following amendment (SF-4337.AA0013S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 2-15-130(C) and inserting:
(C) Prior to issuance of a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum or making application for a contempt order pursuant to this section, the Council shall approve such action by a majority of the voting members and must obtain written approval from either the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House. A copy of the written approval of the President or of the Speaker obtained pursuant to this section shall be provided to the leadership of other legislative body prior to issuance of a subpoena, subpoena duces tecum or application for contempt by the Legislative Audit Council.
Amend the bill further, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Section 2-15-50 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 2-15-50. For the purpose of this chapter "state agencies" means all officers, departments, boards, commissions, institutions, universities, colleges, charter school sponsors or authorizers as defined in Section 58-40-40, bodies politic and corporate of the State and any other person or any other administrative unit of state government or corporate outgrowth of state government, expending or encumbering state funds by virtue of an appropriation from the General Assembly, or handling money on behalf of the State, or holding any trust funds from any source derived, but does not mean or include counties.
For the purposes of this chapter, "audit" means a full-scope examination of and investigation into all state agency matters necessary to make a determination of:
(a)(1) whether the entity is acquiring, protecting, and using its resources, such as personnel, property, and space, economically and efficiently;
(2) the causes of inefficiencies or uneconomical practices; and
(3) whether the entity has complied with laws and regulations concerning matters of economy and efficiency; and
(b)(1) the extent to which the desired results or benefits established by the General Assembly or other authorizing body are achieved;
(2) the effectiveness of organizations, programs, activities, or functions and whether these organizations, programs, activities, or functions should be continued, revised, or eliminated; and
(3) whether the entity has complied with laws and regulations applicable to the program.
SECTION X. Section 2-15-10 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 2-15-10. There is created the Legislative Audit Council consisting of five six members, one three of whom must be appointed by the President of the Senate and three of whom must be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Of those appointed, one must be a practicing certified public accountant or a licensed public accountant and one of whom must be an attorney. The council must be elected by the General Assembly in a joint session from the nominees presented by the nominating committee. The council also includes as ex officio members the following: the Chairmen of the Senate and House Judiciary Committees or a designee by either chairman from the membership of the respective committees and the Chairmen of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee or a designee by either chairman from the membership of the respective committees. The ex officio members, including their designees, are voting members on all matters except those pertaining to auditing functions and personnel matters. The council is directly responsible to the General Assembly and is independent of any other state agency, board, or department.
SECTION X. Section 2-15-30 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 2-15-30. The terms of office of the members of the Council shall be for six years and until their successors are appointed and qualify., except that of the initial members, one shall be elected for the term of two years, one for a term of four years and one for a term of six years. No person who is either a member of the General Assembly or has served in the General Assembly during the preceding two years shall be elected to the Council. Any member may succeed himself on the Council. The Council shall elect its own chairman.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator YOUNG explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell 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. 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.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, the Bill was carried over.
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 HUTTO, 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator HUTTO asked unanimous consent to make a motion to give the Bill a second reading, carry over all amendments and waive the provisions of Rule 26B in order to allow amendments to be considered on third reading.
There was no objection.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator STUBBS proposed the following amendment (SJ-5113.PB0003S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Chapter 1, Title 4 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 4-1-190. (A) A county council may not adopt or enforce an ordinance, provision, building code, or other regulation that prohibits or limits, either directly or indirectly, the use of a specific style of exterior cladding or finish materials for residential buildings in a manner that is more restrictive than state or national building codes.
(B) This section does not apply to a special purpose district, overlay zone, or historic area.
SECTION X. Chapter 25, Title 5 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 5-25-950. (A) A city council or governing body of an incorporated city or town may not adopt or enforce an ordinance, provision, building code, or other regulation that prohibits or limits, either directly or indirectly, the use of a specific style of exterior cladding or finish materials for residential buildings in a manner that is more restrictive than state or national building codes.
(B) This section does not apply to a special purpose district, overlay zone, or historic area.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator STUBBS, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senator HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SEDU-5113.DB0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 6-29-735(B) and inserting:
(B) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 6-29-730 or another provision of law, when there is a replacement of a preexisting manufactured home with a manufactured home not more than five years old within a manufactured home community, or on any other residential land, a local government may not adopt or enforce any zoning decision or zoning ordinance, or any other regulation or restriction, or impose any conditions on the new home, the property upon which the home sits, or the owner's property that were not required of the preexisting home, home site, or property, that would prevent the continuance of the property owner's lawful nonconforming use that had existed relating to the preexisting home, the property upon which the home sat, or the owner's property. If the property is in a designated flood zone and the replacement of a preexisting manufactured home occurs due to a weather occurrence the replacement must meet current federal and local flood elevation standards and building codes for the flood zone in which the property is located.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SR-5113.CEM0001S), which was carried over and subsequently adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Section 6-35-30 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 6-35-30. A county or municipality, only with the approval of the owners of all real property situated within a proposed district, as further provided in Section 6-35-118, may exercise the powers and provisions of this chapter. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, a jurisdiction and authority of another government entity may create a district which includes a geographic area or areas within the jurisdiction and authority of another government entity and may exercise the powers and provisions of this chapter within such geographic area or areas with the consent, expressed by resolution, of the governing body of that other government entity.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was carried over and subsequently adopted.
Senator GRAHAM asked unanimous consent to make a motion to give the Bill a second reading, carry over all amendments and waive the provisions of Rule 26B in order to allow amendments to be considered on third reading.
There was no objection.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, the vote whereby the Bill was given a second reading was reconsidered.
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
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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. 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.
Senators BENNETT and KIMBRELL proposed the following amendment (SJ-3570.PB0006S), 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 specific addresses of individuals making campaign contributions, social security numbers, campaign bank account numbers, and tax ID numbers, must be publicly accessible, searchable, and transferable. The city and state of an individual making a campaign contribution 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 specific address of an individual making a campaign contribution, except the individual's city and state. 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.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 6 and inserting:
SECTION 6. This act takesThe provisions of Section 8-13-320(10)(g) and Section 8-13-540(C) in this act take effect upon approval by the Governor. All other provisions of this act take effect six months after approval by the Governor.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (SR-4069.CEM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 44-7-327(A), by adding an item to read:
(4) "Itemized bill" means a document that a healthcare facility provides to a patient outlining services provided and associated charges at the general department or service level.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-7-327(B)(1) and inserting:
(B)(1) Beginning January 1, 20272026, a healthcare facility that requests payment from a patient after providing a healthcare service or related supply to the patient shall:
(a) provide to the patient an electronic version of the itemized bill of the alleged remittance sought for each service services and supply supplies provided to the patient during the patient's visit to the healthcare facility; orand
(b) provide to the patient a copy of the written itemized bill upon request of the alleged remittance sought for serviceseach service and supply supplies provided to the patient during the patent's visit to the healthcare facility.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-7-327(B)(2)(a) and (b) and inserting:
(2)(a) The healthcare facility must notify the patient in clear and conspicuous language, electronically or and in writing, if requested, of the availability of obtaining an itemized copy electronically or in writing pursuant to subsection (B)(1) and must offer the patient the ability to indicate the preferred form of the itemized bill.
(b) A patient may waive the right to receive an itemized bill electronically or in writing. An initial waiver of the right to an itemized bill does not prevent the patient from later receiving an itemized bill upon request. The healthcare facility must notify the patient of their right to later request an itemized bill even if the patient initially waived their right to receive an itemized bill.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-7-327(B)(3)(a) and inserting:
(a) a plain language description, in accordance with the most current billing reading-level requirements and guidance provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, for each distinct healthcare service services and quantity of supply supplies the healthcare facility provided to the patient as provided for in Section 44-7-3237(A)(3);
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-7-327(B)(3)(c) and inserting:
(c) if the healthcare facility sought or is seeking reimbursement from a third party, any billing code submitted to the third-party, and the patient's responsibility amount due to the healthcare facility pursuant to the third-party insurer's explanation of benefits electronic remittance advice the provider received from the third party under applicable law.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GARRETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4069.MW0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-7-327(B)(6) and inserting:
(6) A collection agency is not liable under this section for must not attempt to collect on a medical bill if provided notice of billing inaccuracies provided by the healthcare facility, patient or debtor. If After notice if any inaccuracies are determined to exist, the collection agency must cease collection activities and return the account back to the healthcare facility.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator OTT proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4069.MW0006S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-7-327(B)(5) and (6) and inserting:
(5) A healthcare facility may not pursue debt collection against a patient for a provided healthcare service or supply unless the healthcare facility has provided an itemized bill to the patient or the patient has waived the right to receive an itemized bill.
(6) (5) A collection agency is not liable under this section for must not attempt to collect on a medical bill if provided notice of billing inaccuracies provided by the healthcare facility, patient or debtor. If After notice if any inaccuracies are determined to exist, the collection agency must cease collection activities and return the account back to the healthcare facility.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator OTT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell 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. 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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator BLACKMON proposed the following amendment (LC-5122.SA0001S), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Article 7, Chapter 27, Title 58 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 58-27-835. (A) For purposes of this section, "commercial data center" means a facility, campus of facilities, or array of interconnected facilities in this State used by an entity or other business enterprise to operate, manage, or maintain a computer, group of computers, or other organized assembly of hardware and software for the primary purpose of storing, retrieving, or transmitting data that has a peak demand of one hundred megawatts or greater.
(B) A commercial data center that consumes three million gallons or more of water each month must report to the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services annually by January thirty-first the amount of surface water, groundwater, or any other source of water the commercial data center utilized within the prior calendar year. This must be reported by the month. In addition, the anticipated amount of surface water, groundwater, or any other source of water utilized in the next calendar year must be reported. This report must be on forms developed by the department. These reports and the data used to complete the reports are subject to audit by the department upon thirty-day notice. The department may assess a civil penalty of ten thousand dollars against the owner of a commercial data center for each day for failing to report timely or reporting inaccurately.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BLACKMON explained the amendment.
Senator RANKIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 24A that the amendment was out of order inasmuch as it was not germane to the Bill.
Senator BLACKMON spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator RANKIN spoke on the Point of Order.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
The amendment was ruled out of order.
Senator SUTTON proposed the following amendment (SJ-5122.PB0004S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 58-9-3100(C)(1) and (3) and inserting:
(1) For purposes of this subsection, "data center" "Data center" means a facility, campus of facilities, or array of electronically interconnected facilities under a single electric supply agreement in this State used by an entity or other business enterprise to operate, manage, or maintain a computer, group of computers, or other organized assembly of hardware and software for the primary purpose of storing, retrieving, or transmitting data, other than facilities owned or operated by a telecommunications company as defined in Section 58-9-2200 or facilities that primarily support telecommunications service or network operations, that has a peak demand of fifty ten megawatts or greater, and that becomes a customer of an electric service provider after December 31, 2026.
(3)(2) For purposes of calculating peak demand under this definition, peak demand shall be determined according to the contract between the energy user and the electric service provider, and the possibility or occurrence of energy usage which temporarily exceeds ten megawatts shall not cause a commercial data center to fall under this definition where contractual peak demand is less than ten megawatts.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator SUTTON, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senator RANKIN proposed the following amendment (SJ-5122.PB0005S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 58-9-3100(C)(3) and inserting:
(3) (2) For purposes of calculating peak demand under this definition, peak demand shall be determined according to the contract between the energy user and the electric service provider, and the possibility or occurrence of energy usage which temporarily exceeds ten fifty megawatts shall not cause a commercial data center to fall under this definition where contractual peak demand is less than ten fifty megawatts.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator RANKIN 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 Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Climer Fernandez Massey Sutton
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
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.
S. 896 (Word version) -- Senators Leber, Walker, Blackmon and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "CHATBOT PROTECTION ACT"; AND BY ADDING CHAPTER 80 TO TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN CHATBOT ACTIVITIES AND TO PROVIDE FOR CIVIL REMEDIES.
Senator DEVINE objected to consideration of the Bill.
S. 1043 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Zell, Leber and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "CIVIL AIR PATROL LEAVE ACT"; BY ADDING CHAPTER 23 TO TITLE 25 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS RELATED TO THE CIVIL AIR PATROL LEAVE ACT, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF CIVIL AIR PATROL LEAVE, TO PRESCRIBE THE DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES AND RIGHTS OF EMPLOYERS REGARDING CIVIL AIR PATROL LEAVE, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PROTECTIONS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator GAMBRELL explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell 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.
On motion of Senator GAMBRELL, S. 1043 was ordered to receive a third reading on Friday, May 8, 2026.
H. 4042 (Word version) -- Reps. Kilmartin, White, Gilreath, Cromer, Guffey, Harris, Hager, McCravy, Edgerton, Terribile, Magnuson, Lastinger, D. Mitchell, Sessions, Chapman, Brewer, Lawson, Oremus, Hartz, Vaughan, Pedalino, Teeple, Landing, Rankin, Schuessler, Ligon, Long, Sanders, Ford, T. Moore, Forrest, Chumley, Bowers, Taylor, Hixon, M.M. Smith, Gibson and Duncan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-53-150 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE OVER-THE-COUNTER SALE OF IVERMECTIN TABLETS.
Senator MATTHEWS objected to consideration of the Bill.
H. 4679 (Word version) -- Reps. C. Mitchell, B.L. Cox, M.M. Smith, Wooten, Chapman, W. Newton, Herbkersman, Wickensimer, Guest, McCravy, Hartnett, Gilliard, Rivers and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA DRONE REGULATION AND PUBLIC SAFETY ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 55-1-110 SO AS TO ESTABLISH GUIDELINES FOR DRONE OPERATIONS, AND PENALTIES FOR UNLAWFUL DRONE USE.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senators GROOMS, HEMBREE, ADAMS, FERNANDEZ and SUTTON proposed the following amendment (SR-4679.CEM0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. This act may be cited as the "Drone Regulation and Public Safety Act".
SECTION 2. Chapter 1, Title 55 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Drone Regulation and Public Safety
Section 55-1-200. For the purposes of this article:
(1) "Unmanned aircraft system (UAS)" or "drone" refers to any aircraft, as defined by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, or any unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), operated remotely without a pilot onboard.
(2) "Commercial drone operator" means any person operating, landing, or taking off a drone for business purposes in compliance with FAA regulations including, but not limited to, 14 CFR Part 107, or any successor statue or regulation.
(3) "Recreational drone operator" means any person operating, landing, or taking off a drone for personal use in accordance with FAA regulations and recreational guidelines including, but not limited to, 49 USC Section 44809 or any successor statue or regulation.
(4) "Controlled airspace" refers to areas where drone operations are prohibited or require prior authorization, including FAA-designated UAS flight-restricted areas and certain locations designated by the Aeronautics Commission.
(5) "Military installation" means:
(a) any state or federal military base, fort, camp, post, station, home port, depot, arsenal, training range, testing range, airfield, air station, shipyard, port facility, or other military facility of similar character, that:
(i) is owned, operated, or otherwise controlled by the United States or this State;
(ii) is used primarily for official military operations, training, testing, support, maintenance, or housing; and
(iii) is subject to controlled access or security measures.
(b) the term includes any facility described in subsection (5)(a) that is under the jurisdiction or control of the United States Department of Defense or a Secretary of a military department, and facilities under the control of the South Carolina National Guard, the Adjutant General, the South Carolina State Guard, or any other component of the state militia;
(c) the term also includes any United States military vessel or ship, including United States Navy vessels and United States Coast Guard cutters, while operating, transiting, or in port within the territorial waters of this State;
(d) the term does not include a state or federally owned, operated, or otherwise controlled publicly accessible facility that is primarily used for military recruitment, outreach, administrative services, or other activities conducted in a commercial storefront, kiosk, leased office space, or other similar location or facility, that is not restricted for military operations or training;
(6) "Operate" or "operating a drone" means to manipulate or control a drone in flight, including managing its flight path, altitude, or automated flight functions, whether directly or through an automated or preprogrammed system.
(7) "Take off and landing site" means the location from which a drone is launched into flight or to which it is intentionally returned and recovered, including any temporary or mobile launch point used during an operation.
(8) "Take off" means to initiate or cause the ascent of an unmanned aircraft or drone from ground or surface contact into flight, whether directly or through an automated or preprogrammed system.
(9) "Land" means to intentionally cause or direct an unmanned aircraft or drone to descend from flight to ground or surface contact, whether directly or through an automated or preprogrammed system.
(10) "Weaponize" means to equip, modify, or configure an unmanned aircraft system with any explosive, destructive device, firearm, hazardous substance, or any other item designed to cause and capable of causing death, bodily injury, or property damage.
(11) "Correctional facility" or "detention facility" means any federal, state, county, municipal, or multijurisdictional jail, prison, prison camp, overnight lockup, local detention facility, juvenile detention facility, or state correctional facility that is used to confine or detain persons charged with or convicted of any criminal offense or violation of a court order.
Section 55-1-210. (A) A person operating a drone must comply with applicable FAA regulations and other applicable federal aviation requirements including, but not limited to:
(1) registering drones when required;
(2) operating under applicable FAA UAS regulations;
(3) successfully passing the FAA Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) for hobbyist operations when required; and
(4) adhering to airspace restrictions including temporary flight restrictions and other flight restrictions issued by FAA action and obtaining necessary FAA authorizations or other approvals before operations in controlled airspace, prohibited or restricted areas, or areas subject to temporary flight restrictions, and complying with the terms and limitations of any applicable Certificate of Waiver or Authorization, certificate of waiver, exemption, or other FAA authorization.
(B) Nothing in this article shall supersede federal authority over airspace regulation.
Section 55-1-220. (A) It is unlawful for a person to intentionally or knowingly operate, take off, or land a drone:
(1) above or within any controlled airspace designated by the FAA unless the operation is conducted in compliance with all applicable FAA authorization requirements;
(2) directly above or within one thousand five hundred feet horizontally from the outermost boundary of property the person knows to be a federal, state, county, or municipal correctional or detention facility, unless expressly authorized or consented to in writing by the South Carolina Department of Corrections or governing authority of the federal, county, or municipal facility; or
(3) directly above or within one thousand five hundred feet horizontally from the outermost boundary of property the person knows to be a military installation without the prior express written consent of the Department of Defense or the commanding authority of the military installation;
(B) It is unlawful for a person to intentionally or knowingly operate, take off, or land a drone that is required to be registered with the FAA but has not been properly registered; including operating a drone that is not in compliance with the requirements of Section 55-1-210(A), and:
(1) failing to display the required FAA registration number on the drone, if required;
(2) knowingly providing false or misleading registration information to the FAA; and
(3) knowingly operating an unregistered drone for commercial purposes or in controlled airspace without proper authorization.
(C) It is unlawful for a person to intentionally or knowingly operate, take off, land, or possess a drone with the intent to:
(1) transport or attempt to deliver contraband, including but not limited to, drugs, weapons, or other prohibited materials into any federal, state, county or municipal correctional or detention facility, or other area under the facility's authority;
(2) surveil, photograph, map, monitor, or otherwise collect visual, photographic, video, geospatial, thermal, or other sensory information regarding a military installation, a correctional or detention facility, for the purposes of identifying vulnerabilities, security measures, ingress or egress routes, response patterns, or other operational features or for any other unlawful purposes, including facilitating, planning, committing or attempting espionage, terrorism, sabotage, unlawful interference with operations., or any other criminal act; and
(3) weaponize the drone or threaten, harm, or attempt to harm another person or property.
(D) A person who violates subsection (A) or (B) is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction:
(1) for a first offense, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars, or imprisoned not more than six months;
(2) for a second offense, must be fined not more than two thousand five hundred dollars, or imprisoned not more than one year, or both; or
(3) for a third or subsequent offense, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars, or imprisoned not more than two years, or both.
(E)(1) A person who violates subsection (C)(1) or (C)(2) is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction must be fined not more than ten thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than five years, or both.
(2) A person who violates subsection (C)(3) is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than twenty-five thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than ten years, or both.
(F)(1) In addition to the penalties provided for in subsection (E), a UAS involved in a violation of this section may be seized and confiscated by the arresting law enforcement agency. The UAS must not be disposed of until the results of any legal proceeding in which it may be involved are finally determined, or as otherwise required pursuant to Article 3, Chapter 28, Title 17. Records must be maintained of all UASs seized pursuant to this section. Upon conviction for a violation of this section, the UAS may be retained by the arresting law enforcement agecny for official use, transferred to another public safety agency for official use, or destroyed, unless otherwise provided by law.
(2) A UAS seized pursuant to this section must be administratively released to an innocent owner. The UAS must not be released until the results of any legal proceeding in which it may be involved are finally determined, or as otherwise required pursuant to Article 3, Chapter 28, Title 17.
(3) Before release, the innocent owner shall provide proof of ownership to the arresting agency; certify that the owner neither consented to nor had knowledge of the unlawful use of the UAS; and certify that the UAS will not be returned to the person charged with the violation that resulted in the seizure.
(4) The arresting agency shall notify the innocent owner when the UAS is available for release. If the innocent owner fails to recover the UAS within thirty days after notification, the arresting agency may retain the UAS for official use, transfer it to another public safety agency for official use, or destroy it.
(G) A violation of each subsection or provision of this section constitutes a separate offense. A violation of one subsection or provision of this section does not preclude prosecution or punishment for a violation of another subsection or provision this section, including violations arising from the same takeoff, landing, or operation.
Section 55-1-230. (A) No municipality, county, or other political subdivision may enact ordinances that conflict with this section or FAA regulations. However, a municipality, county, or other political subdivision may impose reasonable restrictions on the takeoff and landing sites and the operation of drones on or above public property within their jurisdictions that are not otherwise covered by this article.
(B) The provisions of this article do not apply to military, detention facility, or correctional facility personnel operating a drone within the scope of their employment or official duties, provided that these operations comply with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration regulations and all other applicable federal aviation requirements.
SECTION 3. Sections 24-1-300 and 24-5-175 of the S.C. Code are repealed.
SECTION 4. The Code Commissioner is directed to restyle Sections 55-1-1 through 55-1-100 as Article 1 in Chapter 1, Title 55.
SECTION 5. If any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words hereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.
SECTION 6. This act takes effect January 1, 2027.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GROOMS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott 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
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
H. 4760 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Oremus, G.M. Smith, Jordan, Crawford, Duncan, Erickson, Forrest, Gatch, Gilliam, Guest, Haddon, Hiott, Hixon, J.E. Johnson, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, McCravy, Martin, C. Mitchell, T. Moore, B. Newton, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Robbins, Sessions, Vaughan, Whitmire, Willis, Yow, Chumley, Edgerton, Taylor, Bowers, White and Burns: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 8 TO CHAPTER 41, TITLE 44 SO AS TO CREATE CRIMES AND ASSOCIATED PENALTIES REGARDING THE USE OF ABORTION-INDUCING DRUGS, WITH EXCEPTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-250, RELATING TO SCHEDULE IV CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, SO AS TO ADD MIFEPRISTONE AND MISOPROSTOL; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-370, RELATING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE OFFENSES AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO CREATE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR POSSESSION OF MIFEPRISTONE AND MISOPROSTOL, WITH EXCEPTIONS.
Senators SUTTON and GRAHAM objected to consideration of the Bill.
H. 5538 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Herbkersman, G.M. Smith, Hartz, W. Newton, Jordan, Ligon, Oremus, Neese, Taylor, Hiott, Cromer, Gilreath, Morgan, Lastinger, Huff, Burns, Chumley, Beach, D. Mitchell, McCabe, Pedalino, Vaughan, Kilmartin, Gibson and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "GUARANTEE BANKING ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 47 TO TITLE 34 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FAIRNESS AND TRANSPARENCY IN BANKING.
Senator HUTTO objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered, sent to the House.
H. 4086 (Word version) -- Rep. Hager: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 321 IN HAMPTON COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 363 TO THE HAMPTON-ALLENDALE COUNTY LINE THE "HONORABLE JAMES RISHER SR. MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered, returned to the House.
H. 5176 (Word version) -- Rep. Willis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 76 (HILLCREST DRIVE) IN THE CITY OF LAURENS IN LAURENS COUNTY FROM THE INTERSECTION OF NORTH HARPER STREET TO HILLCREST SQUARE "JUDGE JOSEPH WILSON MCGOWAN III MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered, returned to the House.
H. 5352 (Word version) -- Rep. Hosey: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME MOODY ROAD IN THE TOWN OF MARTIN IN ALLENDALE COUNTY FROM MILLET ROAD TO PATTERSON MILL DRIVE "SGT. ORENTHIAL J. 'O.J.' SMITH MEMORIAL ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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.
At 3:32 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.
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.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator MASSEY explained the House amendments.
Senator MASSEY proposed the following amendment (SR-718.CEM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting SECTIONS 1.A, 1.B, 2, and 3 from the bill.
Amend the bill further, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Chapter 37, Title 27 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 27-37-170. (A) A property owner or his authorized representative may request from the sheriff of the county in which the property is located the immediate removal of a person unlawfully occupying a residential dwelling pursuant to this section if the following conditions are met:
(1) the requesting person is the property owner or authorized agent of the property owner;
(2) the real property that is being occupied includes a residential dwelling;
(3) an unauthorized person has unlawfully entered, remains, or continues to reside on the owner's property;
(4) the real property was not open to members of the public at the time the unauthorized person entered;
(5) the property owner has directed the unauthorized person to leave the property
(6) the unauthorized person is not a current or former tenant pursuant to a written or oral agreement authorized by the property owner;
(7) the unauthorized person is not an immediate family member of the property owner; and
(8) there is no pending litigation related to the real property between the property owner and the person unlawfully occupying the property.
(B) To request the immediate removal of an unlawful occupant of a residential dwelling, the property owner or his authorized representative must submit a complaint to remove a person unlawfully occupying residential real property to the sheriff of the county in which the real property is located. In the submitted complaint, the owner or authorized agent of the owner of the real property must state the legal description of the property and declare under the penalty of perjury that:
(1) he is the owner of the real property or the authorized representative of the owner of the real property;
(2) he purchased the property and provides the date of purchase;
(3) the real property is a residential dwelling;
(4) an unauthorized person has unlawfully entered and is remaining or residing unlawfully on the real property;
(5) the real property was not open to members of the public at the time the unauthorized person entered;
(6) he has directed the unauthorized person to leave the real property, but the person has not done so;
(7) the person is not a current or former tenant pursuant to any valid lease authorized by the property owner, and any lease that may be produced by an occupant is fraudulent;
(8) the unauthorized person sought to be removed is not an owner or a co-owner of the property and has not been listed on the title to the property unless the person has engaged in title fraud;
(9) the unauthorized person is not an immediate family member of the property owner;
(10) there is no pending litigation related to the real property between the property owner and the person sought to be removed;
(11) the owner of the property understands that a person removed from the property pursuant to this procedure may bring a cause of action against the owner of the property for any false statements made in the complaint, or for wrongfully using the procedure, and that as a result of such action the owner of the property may be held liable for actual damages, penalties, costs, and reasonable attorney's fees;
(12) the owner of the property is requesting the sheriff to immediately remove the unauthorized person from the residential property;
(13) the owner of the property must attach a copy of a valid government-issued identification, or if a representative of the property owner, attach documents evidencing the representative's authority to act on the property owner's behalf; and
(14) the form must be signed by the owner of the property or the representative of the owner of the property, and it must include the following language: "I HAVE READ EVERY STATEMENT MADE IN THIS PETITION AND EACH STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. I UNDERSTAND THAT THE STATEMENTS MADE IN THIS PETITION ARE BEING MADE UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY, PUNISHABLE AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 16-9-10 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE."
(C) Upon receipt of the complaint, the sheriff shall verify that the person submitting the complaint is the record owner of the real property or the authorized representative of the owner and appears otherwise entitled to relief under this section. If the complaint is verified, then the sheriff must, without delay, serve a notice to immediately vacate on all unlawful occupants and shall put the owner in possession of the real property. Service may be accomplished by hand delivery of the notice to an occupant or by posting the notice on the front door or entrance of the dwelling. The sheriff shall also attempt to verify the identities of all persons occupying the dwelling and note the identities on the return of service. If appropriate, the sheriff may arrest any person found in the dwelling for trespassing, outstanding warrants, or any other legal cause.
(D) The sheriff is entitled to a fee for service of the notice to immediately vacate as provided in Section 23-19-10. After the sheriff serves the notice to immediately vacate, the property owner or authorized representative may request that the sheriff stand by to keep the peace while the property owner or agent of the owner changes the locks and removes the personal property of the unlawful occupants from the premises to or near the property line. When such a request is made, the sheriff may charge a reasonable hourly rate, and the person requesting the sheriff to stand by and keep the peace is responsible for paying the reasonable hourly rate set by the sheriff. The sheriff is not liable to the unlawful occupant or any other party for loss, destruction, or damage of property. The property owner or his authorized representative is not liable to an unlawful occupant or any other party for the loss, destruction, or damage to the personal property unless the removal was wrongful.
(E) A person may bring a civil cause of action for wrongful removal against the person who requested the person's removal pursuant to this section. A person harmed by a wrongful removal pursuant to this section may be restored to possession of the real property and may recover actual costs and damages incurred, statutory damages equal to triple the fair market rent of the dwelling, court costs, and reasonable attorney's fees. The court shall advance the cause on the calendar.
(F) This section does not limit the rights of a property owner or limit the authority of a law enforcement officer to arrest an unlawful occupant for trespassing, vandalism, theft, or other crimes.
SECTION X. Chapter 11, Title 16 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 16-11-790. (A) A person who unlawfully detains, occupies, or trespasses upon a residential dwelling and who intentionally damages the dwelling causing one thousand dollars or more in damages is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined in the discretion of the court or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.
(B) A person who lists or advertises residential real property for sale knowing that the purported seller has no legal title or authority to sell the property, or rents or leases the property to another person knowing that he has no lawful ownership in the property or leasehold interest in the property, is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.
(C) A person who, with the intent to detain or remain upon real property, knowingly and willfully presents to another person a false document purporting to be a valid lease agreement, deed, or other instrument conveying real property rights is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined in the discretion of the court or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MASSEY explained the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The Bill was ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.
H. 3022 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Guest, Kirby and W. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 43-21-130, RELATING TO THE LONG-TERM CARE COUNCIL, SO AS TO CORRECT REFERENCES TO CERTAIN AGENCIES WITH MEMBERSHIP ON THE COUNCIL; BY AMENDING SECTION 43-21-140, RELATING TO THE PURPOSE AND DUTIES OF COUNCIL, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SHARING OF DATA WITH MEMBER AGENCIES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator VERDIN explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator VERDIN, 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.
Columbia, S.C., May 7, 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. 238 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Peeler, Massey and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS AMENDING SECTION 2-1-180, RELATING TO ADJOURNMENT OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND CONDITIONS FOR EXTENDED SESSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DATE FOR SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT IS AUTOMATICALLY EXTENDED IF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DOES NOT GIVE THIRD READING TO THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT ON OR BEFORE MARCH TENTH, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MAY CALL THEIR RESPECTIVE BODIES INTO SESSION AFTER THE SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT DATE TO FINISH ANY UNFINISHED BUSINESS RELATING TO THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS BILL OR CAPITAL RESERVE FUND RESOLUTION, TO PROVIDE THE TIME PERIOD DURING WHICH THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MAY BE CALLED BACK TO COMPLETE THE UNFINISHED BUSINESS RELATING TO THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS BILL OR CAPITAL RESERVE FUND RESOLUTION; AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TOLLING OF THE ONE-HUNDRED-TWENTY-DAY PERIOD THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY HAS TO REVIEW STATE REGULATIONS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to waive the provisions of Rule 32A requiring the Bill to be printed on the Calendar, proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
S. 238 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Peeler, Massey and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS AMENDING SECTION 2-1-180, RELATING TO ADJOURNMENT OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND CONDITIONS FOR EXTENDED SESSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DATE FOR SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT IS AUTOMATICALLY EXTENDED IF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DOES NOT GIVE THIRD READING TO THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT ON OR BEFORE MARCH TENTH, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MAY CALL THEIR RESPECTIVE BODIES INTO SESSION AFTER THE SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT DATE TO FINISH ANY UNFINISHED BUSINESS RELATING TO THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS BILL OR CAPITAL RESERVE FUND RESOLUTION, TO PROVIDE THE TIME PERIOD DURING WHICH THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MAY BE CALLED BACK TO COMPLETE THE UNFINISHED BUSINESS RELATING TO THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS BILL OR CAPITAL RESERVE FUND RESOLUTION; AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TOLLING OF THE ONE-HUNDRED-TWENTY-DAY PERIOD THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY HAS TO REVIEW STATE REGULATIONS.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator MASSEY explained the House amendments.
Senators ALEXANDER, MASSEY, PEELER, RANKIN, and HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SR-238.CEM0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 2-1-180(A)(2) and inserting:
(2) if the general appropriations bill or Capital Reserve Fund resolution is not completed by the sine die adjournment date, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives may call their respective bodies into session at any time after the date of sine die adjournment and until the last day in June to complete those matters and any conference committees appointed on or before the date of sine die adjournment;
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MASSEY explained the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The Bill was ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.
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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the third reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator CAMPSEN, under Rule 26B, the Senate agreed to take up a further amendment on third reading.
Senator CAMPSEN proposed the following amendment (SFGF-4163.BC0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, Section 59-9-130, by adding a subsection to read:
(D) An appeal stays the determination of a sanction made by the association, body, or entity pending the outcome of the appeal. The appellate panel must consider the following factors prior to making a determination on a sanction:
(1) the seriousness of a violation including, but not limited to, the degree in which a violation made a material difference in the outcome of a contest, if applicable;
(2) the frequency in which a violation is committed;
(3) whether a violation was willful; and
(4) whether a violation was self-reported.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator CAMPSEN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator SABB spoke on the Bill.
The question then was third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Bright Campsen Cash Corbin Cromer Davis Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Grooms Hembree Johnson Kennedy Leber Reichenbach Rice Turner Verdin Williams Young
Allen Blackmon Chaplin Climer Devine Graham Hutto Jackson Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Sabb Stubbs Sutton Walker Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, Allendale County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Allendale County:
Hon. Willard D. Branch, Jr., P.O. Box 57, Fairfax, SC 29827
Initial Appointment, Marion County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sharlene D. Fore, 6127 North Highway 501, Marion, SC 29571 VICE Kathy Byrd Bass
On motion of Senator MASSEY, 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. Vessel Wilson of Columbia, S.C. Vessel graduated from Airport High School. He loved sports, hunting and watching a good western. His passion was cooking, baking, grilling and making wine. Vessel and his wife opened Sweet Temptations Baker and Cakes LaMo'r Bakery. He was a member of Kingdom Life Ministries. Vessel was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Reverend Dr. Samuel K. Lewis of Columbia, S.C. Reverend Lewis was a true servant of the Lord. His wisdom, kindness and faith touched countless lives. Reverend Lewis loved his family and church very much and he will forever be remembered.
At 4:02 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.
This web page was last updated on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 6:17 P.M.