NO. 69
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 10:30 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 2:3
Paul wrote to those in Philippi, telling them: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves."
Join me as we bow and pray: Most Holy God, we are indeed so very thankful for all who serve here in the Senate of South Carolina. To a person they are confident leaders, taking seriously the breadth of responsibilities and the frequently ultra-high expectations imposed upon them by all whom they serve. In view of such realities, Lord, we thank these servants all the more for their dedication and their efforts to continue doing all that they can to enrich life for the people of our State. So even with only a few days remaining in this Session, dear God, we call upon You to embrace these leaders in Your care, allowing them to be a blessing to all. We pray this, O Lord, in Your loving name. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Alexis S. McElrath, 104 Panner Lane, Taylors, SC 29887
Reappointment, Richland County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Richland County:
Hon. Tomothy C. Edmond, 119 Old Camp Road, Elgin, SC 29045
Initial Appointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sumter County:
John William Downer II, 2990 Highway 521, Sumter, SC 29153 VICE Kimberly W. Land
On motion of Senator BRIGHT, at 10:43 A.M., Senator KENNEDY was granted a leave of absence for Wednesday, May 13, 2026, and Thursday, May 14, 2026.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, at 10:43 A.M., Senator JACKSON was granted a leave of absence for today.
On motion of Senator ZELL, at 5:51 P.M., Senator CHAPLIN was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM, at 5:51 P.M., Senator DEVINE was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
At 6:38 P.M., Senator DAVIS requested a leave of absence for the balance of the day.
Senator HEMBREE rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator HEMBREE, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator SABB rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator SABB, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
The following were introduced:
S. 1191 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MAY 28, 2026, AS "LEVEL UP ELEVATE SC DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0680km-vc26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 1192 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE SOUTH CAROLINA INSURANCE ASSOCIATION ON THE OCCASION OF ITS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND ITS LONGSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0679km-amb26.docx
The Senate Resolution was adopted.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
H. 4752 (Word version) -- Reps. Wooten, McCabe, Edgerton, White and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-7-230, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE AS A BARBER, SO AS TO REMOVE THE APPRENTICESHIP REQUIREMENT.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3874 (Word version) -- Reps. J.E. Johnson and Schuessler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 42-15-90, RELATING TO FEES OF ATTORNEYS AND PHYSICIANS AND HOSPITAL CHARGES APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH MEDICAL FEE SCHEDULES AND RELATED SYSTEMS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 4188 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, B. Newton, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox, Brewer, Ford, Davis, Robbins, Yow and C. Mitchell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-5-590, RELATING TO DISPOSITION OF REMAINS OF UNIDENTIFIED DEAD BODIES BY CORONERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE UNCLAIMED REMAINS IN THE PURVIEW OF THE STATUTE, AND TO AUTHORIZE CORONERS TO RELEASE REMAINS TO FAMILY MEMBERS, RATHER THAN THE NEXT OF KIN, WHEN THE NEXT OF KIN IS CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH THE DEATH OR OTHERWISE UNCOOPERATIVE IN CLAIMING REMAINS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 4270 (Word version) -- Reps. Schuessler, B.J. Cox, McGinnis, Yow, Jones, Vaughan, Kirby, Dillard, Wetmore, Bauer, Collins, Wickensimer, Brewer, Gilliard, Bernstein, Bannister, Willis, J.L. Johnson, Guest, King, Chapman, Herbkersman, Bradley, Brittain, Burns, Martin, Calhoon, Lowe, C. Mitchell, Oremus, Atkinson, Sessions, Haddon, Waters, Rivers, Scott and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 60-2-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN PUBLIC RECORDS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 5179 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, McGinnis, Garvin, Grant, Yow, C. Mitchell, Wooten and King: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-440 SO AS TO CREATE THE SCHOOL MAPPING DATA PROGRAM WITHIN THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING EFFICIENT EMERGENCY RESPONSES IN PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING BY PUBLIC SAFETY AGENCIES, TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROGRAM AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION BY THE DIVISION, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 5506 (Word version) -- Reps. Jordan, Williams, Atkinson, Kirby and Lowe: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 55-11-620, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE PEE DEE REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY, ITS MEMBERS, THEIR TERMS, AUTHORITY, VACANCIES, AND COMPENSATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE MEMBERS OF THE PEE DEE REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR UPON THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATIONS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
and has ordered the Joint Resolution enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it refuses to concur in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
S. 52 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Cash, Gambrell, Grooms, Jackson, Devine, Climer, Johnson, Adams, Turner, Kimbrell, Sutton, Blackmon, Williams, Alexander, Verdin, Garrett, Zell and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2930, RELATING TO OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO AMEND THE PENALTY PROVISIONS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2933, RELATING TO DRIVING WITH UNLAWFUL ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2941, RELATING TO IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES NOTHING IN THE SECTION REQUIRES INSTALLATION OF IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES PRIOR TO CONTESTED CASE HEARINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2945, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE SECOND DEGREE, ESTABLISH PENALTIES, AND DEFINE THE TERM "MODERATE BODILY INJURY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2947, RELATING TO CHILD ENDANGERMENT, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE OFFENSES OF RECKLESS VEHICULAR HOMICIDE AND RECKLESS DRIVING AS VIOLATIONS SUBJECT TO A CHARGE OF CHILD ENDANGERMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2950, RELATING TO IMPLIED CONSENT TO TESTING FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES, PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED, AND TEST SITES THAT CAN BE USED WHEN PERSONS ARE SUBJECTED TO TESTS FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, TO PROVIDE THAT LABORATORY TECHNICIANS, PHLEBOTOMISTS, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS MAY OBTAIN BLOOD OR URINE SAMPLES, TO REVISE THE PERIOD OF SUSPENSIONS OF DRIVING PRIVILEGES THAT MUST BE IMPOSED FOR FAILURE IF PERSONS REFUSE TO BE TESTED AND IF PERSONS HAVE CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, TO REVISE THE PROVISION THAT ESTABLISHES ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO PERSONS INCAPABLE OF REFUSING TO CONSENT TO TESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2951, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF LICENSES FOR REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO TESTING OR FOR CERTAIN LEVELS OF ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED LICENSE SUSPENSIONS MAY INSTALL IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES WITHIN THIRTY DAYS AND OBTAIN TEMPORARY DRIVERS' LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS WHO REFUSE TO SUBMIT TO CHEMICAL TESTS MUST HAVE THEIR DRIVERS' LICENSES SUSPENDED FOR ONE YEAR FOR A FIRST OFFENSE, AND TO PROVIDE INCREASED SUSPENSIONS FOR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES, OR IF PERSONS TAKE THE TESTS AND REGISTER ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS OF OVER FIFTEEN ONE-HUNDREDTH OF ONE PERCENT OR MORE, THAT THEIR LICENSES ARE SUSPENDED FOR TWO MONTHS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2953, RELATING TO INCIDENT SITES AND BREATH TEST SITES FOR VIDEO RECORDING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION MAY BE CONSTRUED TO COMPEL OR AUTHORIZE A DISMISSAL OF A DUI OFFENSE IF THE OFFICERS SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLY WITH THE STATUTE AND THAT MOTIONS FOR SUPPRESSION OF EVIDENCE UNDER THE STATUTE MUST BE MADE PRIOR TO JEOPARDY ATTACHING; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2920, RELATING TO RECKLESS DRIVING, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSES OF FELONY RECKLESS DRIVING WITH GREAT BODILY INJURY AND RECKLESS DRIVING RESULTING IN MODERATE BODILY INJURY AND TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2960 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS CONVICTED OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE CAUSING THE DEATH OR DISABILITY OF PARENTS OR GUARDIANS MAY BE ORDERED TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT AS RESTITUTION FOR THE DURATION OF ANY PROBATION ORDERED, PERFORM COMMUNITY SERVICE, OR BOTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-286, RELATING TO THE SUSPENSION OF LICENSES OR PERMITS OR THE DENIAL OF ISSUANCE OF LICENSES OR PERMITS TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE WHO DRIVE MOTOR VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED NOTICES OF SUSPENSIONS MAY OBTAIN TEMPORARY LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-400, RELATING TO THE SURRENDER OF LICENSES, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION REQUIRES PERSONS OBTAIN IGNITION INTERLOCKS UNLESS THE OFFENSES ARE ALCOHOL RELATED.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate insisted upon its amendments to S.52 and asked for a Committee of Conference.
Whereupon, Senators HEMBREE, ADAMS and TEDDER were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Reps. Jeff Johnson, Robbins and Rose to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House on:
S. 52 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Cash, Gambrell, Grooms, Jackson, Devine, Climer, Johnson, Adams, Turner, Kimbrell, Sutton, Blackmon, Williams, Alexander, Verdin, Garrett, Zell and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2930, RELATING TO OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO AMEND THE PENALTY PROVISIONS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2933, RELATING TO DRIVING WITH UNLAWFUL ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2941, RELATING TO IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES NOTHING IN THE SECTION REQUIRES INSTALLATION OF IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES PRIOR TO CONTESTED CASE HEARINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2945, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE SECOND DEGREE, ESTABLISH PENALTIES, AND DEFINE THE TERM "MODERATE BODILY INJURY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2947, RELATING TO CHILD ENDANGERMENT, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE OFFENSES OF RECKLESS VEHICULAR HOMICIDE AND RECKLESS DRIVING AS VIOLATIONS SUBJECT TO A CHARGE OF CHILD ENDANGERMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2950, RELATING TO IMPLIED CONSENT TO TESTING FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES, PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED, AND TEST SITES THAT CAN BE USED WHEN PERSONS ARE SUBJECTED TO TESTS FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, TO PROVIDE THAT LABORATORY TECHNICIANS, PHLEBOTOMISTS, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS MAY OBTAIN BLOOD OR URINE SAMPLES, TO REVISE THE PERIOD OF SUSPENSIONS OF DRIVING PRIVILEGES THAT MUST BE IMPOSED FOR FAILURE IF PERSONS REFUSE TO BE TESTED AND IF PERSONS HAVE CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, TO REVISE THE PROVISION THAT ESTABLISHES ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO PERSONS INCAPABLE OF REFUSING TO CONSENT TO TESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2951, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF LICENSES FOR REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO TESTING OR FOR CERTAIN LEVELS OF ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED LICENSE SUSPENSIONS MAY INSTALL IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES WITHIN THIRTY DAYS AND OBTAIN TEMPORARY DRIVERS' LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS WHO REFUSE TO SUBMIT TO CHEMICAL TESTS MUST HAVE THEIR DRIVERS' LICENSES SUSPENDED FOR ONE YEAR FOR A FIRST OFFENSE, AND TO PROVIDE INCREASED SUSPENSIONS FOR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES, OR IF PERSONS TAKE THE TESTS AND REGISTER ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS OF OVER FIFTEEN ONE-HUNDREDTH OF ONE PERCENT OR MORE, THAT THEIR LICENSES ARE SUSPENDED FOR TWO MONTHS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2953, RELATING TO INCIDENT SITES AND BREATH TEST SITES FOR VIDEO RECORDING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION MAY BE CONSTRUED TO COMPEL OR AUTHORIZE A DISMISSAL OF A DUI OFFENSE IF THE OFFICERS SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLY WITH THE STATUTE AND THAT MOTIONS FOR SUPPRESSION OF EVIDENCE UNDER THE STATUTE MUST BE MADE PRIOR TO JEOPARDY ATTACHING; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2920, RELATING TO RECKLESS DRIVING, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSES OF FELONY RECKLESS DRIVING WITH GREAT BODILY INJURY AND RECKLESS DRIVING RESULTING IN MODERATE BODILY INJURY AND TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2960 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS CONVICTED OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE CAUSING THE DEATH OR DISABILITY OF PARENTS OR GUARDIANS MAY BE ORDERED TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT AS RESTITUTION FOR THE DURATION OF ANY PROBATION ORDERED, PERFORM COMMUNITY SERVICE, OR BOTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-286, RELATING TO THE SUSPENSION OF LICENSES OR PERMITS OR THE DENIAL OF ISSUANCE OF LICENSES OR PERMITS TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE WHO DRIVE MOTOR VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED NOTICES OF SUSPENSIONS MAY OBTAIN TEMPORARY LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-400, RELATING TO THE SURRENDER OF LICENSES, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION REQUIRES PERSONS OBTAIN IGNITION INTERLOCKS UNLESS THE OFFENSES ARE ALCOHOL RELATED.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 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. 222 (Word version) -- Senators Ott and Stubbs: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-2-140 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE" AND PROVIDE FOR THE REGISTRATION AND OPERATION OF THEM ON THE HIGHWAYS AND STREETS OF THE STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "OFF-ROAD USE ONLY"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE PASSENGER AUTOMOBILE" TO INCLUDE CERTAIN UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLES.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, 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. 222 (Word version) -- Senators Ott and Stubbs: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-2-140 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLE" AND PROVIDE FOR THE REGISTRATION AND OPERATION OF THEM ON THE HIGHWAYS AND STREETS OF THE STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "OFF-ROAD USE ONLY"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE PASSENGER AUTOMOBILE" TO INCLUDE CERTAIN UTILITY TERRAIN VEHICLES.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator HEMBREE explained the House amendments.
Senators HEMBREE and OTT proposed the following amendment (SR-222.CEM0023S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 6.A., by deleting Section 56-2-90(F) from the bill.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Matthews Rankin Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Alexander Bright Climer Corbin Fernandez Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Peeler Reichenbach Rice Tedder
The amendment was adopted.
Having voted on the prevailing side, Senator YOUNG moved to reconsider the vote whereby the amendment was adopted.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Campsen Cash Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Matthews Rankin Sutton
Bennett Blackmon Bright Chaplin Climer Corbin Fernandez Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The amendment failed.
The question then being the concurrence of the House amendments.
Senator OTT explained the amendments.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Blackmon Campsen Chaplin Corbin Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Kimbrell Leber Matthews Ott Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Walker Williams Young Zell
Bennett Bright Cash Climer Cromer Davis Fernandez Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Martin Massey Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Verdin
On motion of Senator OTT, 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 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has receded from its amendments on:
S. 449 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-43-245 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHARMACISTS AND PHYSICIANS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PHYSICIANS AND MISCELLANEOUS HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-205 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE PHYSICIANS AND PHARMACISTS TO ENTER INTO COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS; AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY AND THE STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS AND TO PROVIDE THAT COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE AGREEMENTS MAY NOT BE IMPLEMENTED UNTIL AFTER THE REGULATIONS ARE EFFECTIVE.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the Report of the Committee of Conference on:
S. 477 (Word version) -- Senators Davis and Ott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-210, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF A "SELF-ADMINISTERED HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVE" IN THE PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-230, RELATING TO PHARMACISTS PERMITTED TO DISPENSE SELF-ADMINISTERED HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, SO AS TO PROVIDE SUCH DISPENSATIONS MAY BE MADE PURSUANT TO CERTAIN WRITTEN JOINT PROTOCOLS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-240, RELATING TO WRITTEN JOINT PROTOCOLS BY THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS AND THE BOARD OF PHARMACY TO AUTHORIZE PHARMACISTS TO DISPENSE SELF-ADMINISTERED HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES WITHOUT PATIENT-SPECIFIC WRITTEN ORDERS, SO AS TO INSTEAD PROVIDE THE DISPENSATIONS MAY BE MADE UNDER STANDING ORDERS OR WITHOUT STANDING ORDERS WHEN DISPENSED OR ADMINISTERED PURSUANT TO CERTAIN WRITTEN JOINT PROTOCOLS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
The Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
A message was sent to the House accordingly.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon the amendments proposed by the House to:
S. 508 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin, Goldfinch, Martin, Peeler, Bennett, Young, Blackmon, Kimbrell, Zell, Nutt, Fernandez, Alexander, Turner, Adams, Leber, Corbin, Grooms, Hembree, Rice, Massey, Garrett, Chaplin, Cromer, Johnson, Gambrell, Kennedy, Davis, Climer, Campsen, Reichenbach, Bright and Cash: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 10-1-165, RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF CERTAIN MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS, SO AS TO EXPAND THE TYPE OF MONUMENTS OR MEMORIALS THAT MAY NOT BE RELOCATED, REMOVED, OR DISTURBED, TO WITHHOLD DISBURSEMENTS FROM THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUND FOR ANY COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY THAT VIOLATES THIS SECTION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CARE AND PRESERVATION OF MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS BY CERTAIN PEOPLE OR ORGANIZATIONS, TO PROVIDE STANDING TO CERTAIN PEOPLE OR ORGANIZATIONS TO BRING A CIVIL ACTION IN RESPONSE TO A VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION OR TO PREVENT SUCH VIOLATION, AND TO PROVIDE FOR LIMITATIONS ON THE TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY UNDERNEATH A MONUMENT OR MEMORIAL OR THE TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN, ACCESS, OR VIEW A MONUMENT OR MEMORIAL.
asks for a Committee of Conference, and has appointed Reps. T. Moore, Taylor and Govan to the committee on the part of the House.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Whereupon, Senators VERDIN, GOLDFINCH and SUTTON were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 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. 688 (Word version) -- Senators Massey and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-5, RELATING TO CONTRIBUTIONS AND PAYMENTS TO THE UNEMPLOYMENT TRUST FUND DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE LOOKBACK PERIOD FOR THE BENEFIT RATIO; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-45, RELATING TO DEBT STATUS ESTIMATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SOLVENCY TARGET FOR THE FUND; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-60, RELATING TO THE TAX RATE WHEN A DELINQUENT REPORT IS RECEIVED, SO AS TO CHANGE THE PENALTY FOR AN OUTSTANDING LIEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-350, RELATING TO THE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO FILE A REPORT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CAP ON THE PENALTY FOR FAILING TO FILE A REPORT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-370, RELATING TO INTEREST ON UNPAID CONTRIBUTIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CAP ON THE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO PAY CONTRIBUTIONS.
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. 688 (Word version) -- Senators Massey and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-5, RELATING TO CONTRIBUTIONS AND PAYMENTS TO THE UNEMPLOYMENT TRUST FUND DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE LOOKBACK PERIOD FOR THE BENEFIT RATIO; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-45, RELATING TO DEBT STATUS ESTIMATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SOLVENCY TARGET FOR THE FUND; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-60, RELATING TO THE TAX RATE WHEN A DELINQUENT REPORT IS RECEIVED, SO AS TO CHANGE THE PENALTY FOR AN OUTSTANDING LIEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-350, RELATING TO THE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO FILE A REPORT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CAP ON THE PENALTY FOR FAILING TO FILE A REPORT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-370, RELATING TO INTEREST ON UNPAID CONTRIBUTIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE CAP ON THE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO PAY CONTRIBUTIONS.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator DAVIS explained the House amendments.
Senator DAVIS proposed the following amendment (SR-688.CEM0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Section 41-31-5 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 41-31-5. As used in this chapter:
(1) "Benefit ratio" means:
(a) for the period of January 1, 2011, through December 31, 2013, the number calculated by dividing the sum of all benefits charged to an employer during the forty calendar quarters immediately preceding the calculation date by the sum of the employer's taxable payroll for the same period. If fewer than forty but more than one calendar quarter of data are available, the data from those available calendar quarters shall be used in the calculation. The benefit ratio must be calculated annually using data for quarters filed through June thirtieth of the current year to the sixth decimal place;
(b) from January 1, 2014, through tax year 2026, the number calculated by dividing the sum of all benefits charged to an employer during the twelve calendar quarters immediately preceding the calculation date by the sum of the employer's taxable payroll for the same period. If fewer than twelve but more than one calendar quarters of data are available, the data from those available calendar quarters shall be used in the calculation. The benefit ratio must be calculated annually using data for quarters filed through June thirtieth of the current year to the sixth decimal place.;
of the employer's taxable payroll for the same period. If fewer than sixteen but more than one calendar
quarters of data are available, then the data from those available calendar quarters shall be used in the calculation. The benefit ratio must be calculated annually using data for quarters filed through June thirtieth of the current year to the sixth decimal place;
(d) Beginning in tax year 2028, the number calculated by dividing the sum of all benefits charged to an employer during the twenty calendar quarters immediately preceding the calculation date by the sum of the employer's taxable payroll for the same period. If fewer than twenty but more than one calendar quarters of data are available, then the data from those available calendar quarters shall be used in the calculation. The benefit ratio must be calculated annually using data for quarters filed through June thirtieth of the current year to the sixth decimal place; and
(e) Notwithstanding the provisions contained in items (a) through (d), an employer who is in rate class one in tax year 2026 remains subject to the calculation contained in item (b) until the employer no longer qualifies for rate class one, at which time the employer shall be subject to the calculation in item (c) or (d), as appropriate.
(2) "Department" means the Department of Employment and Workforce.
(3) "Statewide average required rate" means the amount of income projected to be needed by the unemployment insurance trust fund for the upcoming calendar year divided by the estimated taxable wages over the same period rounded to the sixth decimal place.
(4) "Statewide average interest surcharge" means the amount of income projected to be needed to pay interest on outstanding federal advances during the upcoming calendar year divided by the estimated taxable wages for the upcoming calendar year.
SECTION 2. Section 41-31-45 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 41-31-45. (A) For the purposes of this section:
(1) "Average high cost multiple" means the number of years the department could pay unemployment compensation, based upon the statewide reserve ratio, if the department paid the compensation at a rate equivalent to the average benefit cost rate in the three calendar years during the previous twenty calendar years, or the last three recessions, in which the benefit cost rates were the highest.
(2) "Benefit cost rate" means the rate determined by dividing the unemployment compensation benefits paid during a calendar year by the total covered wages in the State during that year. The calculation of the benefit cost rate may not include the wages and unemployment compensation paid by employers covered under Section 3309 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
year less the estimate of interest to be earned by the unemployment insurance trust fund for that calendar
year.
(4) "Statewide reserve ratio" means the ratio determined by dividing the balance in the trust fund reserve as of June thirtieth by the total covered wages for the previous twelve months in the State as of June thirtieth. The calculation of the statewide reserve ratio may not include the wages and unemployment compensation paid by employers covered under Section 3309 of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986.
(5)(2) "Fund adequacysolvency target" means an average high-cost multiple of one is defined as the value computed as the product of 0.08 and:
(a) the size of the South Carolina labor force as determined annually by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics;
(b) the maximum weekly benefit amount set by the department in accordance with Section 41-35-40; and
(c) the maximum number of weeks of unemployment benefits available in accordance with Section 41-35-50.
(6)(3) "Trust fund reserve" excludes distributions from the federal government pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1103, commonly referred to as the Reed Act.
(4) "Solvency surcharge" is a surcharge imposed on contributory employers in each year the unemployment trust fund is solvent but the trust fund reserve does not meet the fund solvency target.
(5) "Fiscal year" begins on July first of each year and ends on June thirtieth of the succeeding year.
(6) "Tax year" begins on January first of each year and ends on December thirty-first of each year.
(7) "Cap" is the maximum projected amount of revenue to be generated in a single year and is the greater amount of either:
(a) the actual benefits paid in the prior fiscal year; or
(b) the projected benefits for the next tax year.
(8) "Actual tax collections" excludes all penalties, interests, contingency surcharges, and recording fees.
(B) Each year the department must calculate the income necessary to pay benefits and reach the fund solvency target for the unemployment trust fund. The department determines the total income needed as follows:
(1) Projected benefits will be determined for the next tax year with annual historical data as well as unemployment rate projections provided by the Congressional Budget Office.
fund solvency target within five years subject to:
(a) When actual benefits paid in the prior fiscal year are greater than the actual tax collections
received in the prior fiscal year, then the cap is triggered. Once triggered, then:
(i) If projected benefits for the next tax year are less than the actual benefits paid in the prior fiscal year, then the solvency surcharge shall be the difference between the actual benefits paid in the prior fiscal year and the projected benefits.
(ii) If projected benefits for the next tax year are greater than the actual benefits paid in the prior fiscal year, then no additional solvency surcharge will be added for the next tax year.
(b) After the cap has been triggered, once actual benefits paid in the prior fiscal year were less than actual tax collections in the prior fiscal year, then tax rates for the next tax year will be set based on returning the unemployment trust fund to the fund solvency target within the next five years.
(3) If the balance of the unemployment trust fund, as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal year, is greater than the fund solvency target, then the department may use the surplus amount to reduce taxes in the next tax year.
(4) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (2), once the fund solvency target has been met, in subsequent tax years, if the unemployment trust fund balance does not meet the fund solvency target as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal year, then the solvency surcharge shall be set as follows:
Percentage the unemployment trust fund balance is below the fund adequacy target Rebuilding period
More than 0.0000%, but less than 2.5000% One year
2.5000% or more, but less than 5.0000% Two years
5.0000% or more, but less than 7.5000% Three years
7.5000% or more Four years
(B)(C) For each calendar year during which the state Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund is in debt status, the department must estimate the amount of income necessary to pay benefits for that year, the amount of income necessary to avoid automatic FUTA credit reductions, and an amount of income necessary to repay all outstanding federal loans within five years. Additional estimates of interest costs shall be determined concurrently.
(1) Estimates of the revenue needed to pay benefits will be based on Congressional Budget Office projections for the subsequent calendar year's total unemployment rate. This total unemployment rate will be adjusted for South Carolina based on the historic relationship between the unemployment rate in South Carolina and the national unemployment rate calculated from 1980 to present.
(3) Estimates of forecasted benefits will be based upon the prior three year average of the annual number of weeks compensated multiplied by an estimate of the average weekly benefit for the next
year.
(4) Estimates of amounts to pay to avoid FUTA credit reductions and amount of repayments on the loan will be projected through consultation with officials at the US Department of Labor.
(C) After the fund returns to solvency, the department must promulgate regulations concerning the income needed to pay benefits in each year and return the trust fund to an adequate level as defined in
subsection (A)(5).
SECTION 3. Section 41-31-60 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 41-31-60. (A) If on the computation date upon which an employer's tax rate is to be computed as provided in Section 41-31-40 there is a delinquent report, the tax class twenty rate must be assigned to the employer until the next computation date or until all outstanding tax reports have been filed.
(B)(1) No employer is permitted to pay his unemployment compensation tax at a reduced tax rate class for any quarter when a tax execution issued prior to January 1, 2027, in accordance with Section 41-31-390 with respect to delinquent unemployment compensation tax for a previous quarter is unpaid and outstanding against the employer. If on the computation date upon which an employer's tax rate is computed as provided in Section 41-31-40 there is an outstanding tax execution, the tax class twenty rate must be assigned to the employer until the next computation date or until such time as all outstanding tax executions have been paid. An employer who has a department-approved installment payment agreement shall be permitted to pay its unemployment compensation tax at the annual rate as determined pursuant to Section 41-31-50. However, any such employer's tax rate shall immediately revert to the tax class twenty rate if the employer fails to make any one of the succeeding deferred payments or fails to submit any succeeding wage report and payment in a timely manner as required by the department-approved installment payment agreement.
(2) For any quarter when a tax execution issued on or after January 1, 2027, in accordance with Section 41-31-390 with respect to delinquent unemployment compensation tax for a previous quarter is unpaid and outstanding against the employer, an employer must pay his unemployment compensation tax at an increased rate of contribution that is the sum of two percent plus the employer's rate as otherwise determined pursuant to this chapter.
2027, have been paid.
(C) An employer with an outstanding tax execution who has a department-approved installment payment agreement shall be permitted to pay its unemployment compensation tax at the annual rate as
determined pursuant to this chapter. However, any such employer's tax rate shall immediately revert to the applicable increased rate if the employer fails to make any one of the succeeding deferred payments or fails to submit any succeeding wage report and payment in a timely manner as required by the department-approved installment payment agreement.
SECTION 4. Section 41-31-350 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 41-31-350. An employer that fails to file a report concerning wages or contributions pursuant to Chapters 27 through 41 of this title within fifteen days from the date upon which the department mailed a demand for the report, the department shall assess the employer a penalty of ten percent of the contributions due but no less than twenty-five nor more than one thousand dollars in addition to the contributions payable with respect to the report.
SECTION 5. Section 41-31-370 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 41-31-370. (A) Contributions unpaid on the date on which they are due and payable, as prescribed by the department, shall bear interest at the rate of one percent for each month or fraction for which they remain unpaid but contributions as have accrued prior to the establishment of an employer's liability shall bear interest at the rate of one-half of one percent a month or fraction of a month, to the date on which liability is established, unless it is found by the department that the delay in the establishment of liability resulted from wilful negligence of the employer, and shall bear interest at the rate of one percent a month or fraction for which they remain unpaid thereafter.
(B) If any employer's amount of contributions which are due and payable, as prescribed by the department, are unpaid ten days following the date on which an assessment or debit memorandum was issued, a penalty of ten percent of the amount of contributions due and payable, not to exceed one thousand dollars, must be paid in addition to any other interest or penalty which may be applicable.
(C) The department may, for good cause, extend the time for the filing of reports and the payment of contributions. Any person to whom the extension is granted shall pay in addition to the contribution due, interest at the rate of one percent per month or fraction of a month from the due date of the contribution to the date of payment.
SECTION 6. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor on July 1, 2026.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DAVIS explained the amendment.
The question then was the adoption of the amendment.
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 Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The amendment was adopted.
The Bill was ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 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. 894 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-63-74, RELATING TO THE ELECTRONIC FILING AND TRANSMISSION OF DEATH CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR A DEATH CERTIFICATE TO BE FILED ON THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY FOLLOWING THE WEEKEND OR A HOLIDAY.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, 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. 894 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-63-74, RELATING TO THE ELECTRONIC FILING AND TRANSMISSION OF DEATH CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR A DEATH CERTIFICATE TO BE FILED ON THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY FOLLOWING THE WEEKEND OR A HOLIDAY.
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, 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 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
H. 3387 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, W. Newton, B. Newton, Robbins, C. Mitchell, Pope, Chapman, McCravy, Chumley, Taylor, Forrest, Long, Ligon, Guest, Crawford, Edgerton, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox, Holman, Davis, Brewer, Murphy, Calhoon, Erickson, Bradley, Williams, Hixon, Burns, Hewitt, Gilreath, Cromer, Oremus and Hartz: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 SO AS TO ENTITLE THE ARTICLE "EJECTMENT OF UNLAWFUL OCCUPANTS OF A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING," TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE AN ALTERNATIVE REMEDY TO REMOVE PERSONS UNLAWFULLY OCCUPYING A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING; TO REDESIGNATE CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AS "EJECTMENT PROCEEDINGS"; TO REDESIGNATE THE EXISTING SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AS ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AND ENTITLE IT "EJECTMENT OF TENANTS"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-521 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE OFFENSE OF CRIMINAL MISCHIEF.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
H. 3387 -- Reps. G.M. Smith, W. Newton, B. Newton, Robbins, C. Mitchell, Pope, Chapman, McCravy, Chumley, Taylor, Forrest, Long, Ligon, Guest, Crawford, Edgerton, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox, Holman, Davis, Brewer, Murphy, Calhoon, Erickson, Bradley, Williams, Hixon, Burns, Hewitt, Gilreath, Cromer, Oremus and Hartz: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 SO AS TO ENTITLE THE ARTICLE "EJECTMENT OF UNLAWFUL OCCUPANTS OF A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING," TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE AN ALTERNATIVE REMEDY TO REMOVE PERSONS UNLAWFULLY OCCUPYING A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING; TO REDESIGNATE CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AS "EJECTMENT PROCEEDINGS"; TO REDESIGNATE THE EXISTING SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AS ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 37, TITLE 27 AND ENTITLE IT "EJECTMENT OF TENANTS"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-521 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE OFFENSE OF CRIMINAL MISCHIEF.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator MASSEY explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
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.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, 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.
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 House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, 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 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate 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.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it refuses to concur in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
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.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
On motion of Senator GROOMS, the Senate insisted upon its amendments to H. 4635 and asked for a Committee of Conference.
Whereupon, Senators CORBIN, GARRETT and TEDDER were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
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
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
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.
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 House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator ADAMS, 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 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate with amendments:
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.
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.
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 House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator TURNER explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator TURNER, with unanimous consent, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
Columbia, S.C., May 13, 2026
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has returned the following Bill to the Senate 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.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
Placed on Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
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 KIMBRELL, the Bill was committed to the Local Delegation.
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.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
S. 1190 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett, Adams, Alexander, Allen, 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 and Zell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE NOVEMBER 2026 AS "LUNG CANCER AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
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.
On motion of Senator REICHENBACH.
H. 5653 (Word version) -- Rep. Scott: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 843 OF 1952, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE LEE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE METHOD BY WHICH PERSONS FILE TO BECOME A CANDIDATE FOR ELECTION TO THE BOARD, THE MANNER IN WHICH BOARD ELECTIONS ARE CONDUCTED, AND THE MANNER IN WHICH VACANCIES ON THE BOARD ARE FILLED; AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ANNUAL COMPENSATION OF MEMBERS OF THE BOARD.
On motion of Senator GRAHAM.
H. 4763 (Word version) -- Reps. Oremus, Brittain, W. Newton, Bailey, Bradley, Brewer, Caskey, Crawford, Duncan, Erickson, Forrest, Gagnon, Gatch, Gilliam, Guest, Haddon, Hardee, Hartnett, Hartz, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, J.E. Johnson, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Martin, McCravy, C. Mitchell, B. Newton, Pedalino, Pope, Robbins, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G.M. Smith, M.M. Smith, Taylor, Teeple, Vaughan, Whitmire, Willis, Wooten, Yow, Terribile, White, Lastinger, Wickensimer, Atkinson, Chapman, Gibson, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "HELPING ALLEVIATE LAWFUL OBSTRUCTION (HALO) ACT"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-1092 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERMS "EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PROVIDER", "FIRST RESPONDER", AND "HARASS", TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO APPROACH, IMPEDE, CAUSE HARM TO, OR HARASS A FIRST RESPONDER OR EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE PROVIDER AFTER RECEIVING A VERBAL WARNING, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY.
Senator DEVINE objected to consideration of the Bill.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
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."
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.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4709.LMS0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 11-35-5350(A)(7) and inserting:
(7) "Public works project" subject to the requirements of this section and notwithstanding the provisions of Section 11-35-710(A)(1) to the contrary, means an activity paid for with any state-appropriated funds or state funds administered by a public entity which consists of the construction, maintenance, repair, renovation, remodeling, or improvement of a building, road, street, sewer, storm drain, water system, site development, irrigation system, reclamation project, gas or electrical distribution system, gas or electrical substation, or other facility, project, or portion owned in whole or in part by any public entity. For purposes of this section, repairs undertaken in response to an emergent situation affecting public health, safety, or property are excluded from this definition.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, Section 11-35-5350, by adding a subsection to read:
(F) As used in this section, any state appropriated funds or state funds administered by a public entity shall not include bonds administered or awarded by the South Carolina Housing Finance and Development Authority or state tax credits.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being the third reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Bill was carried over.
H. 4303 (Word version) -- Reps. Gatch, Cobb-Hunter, Sessions, M.M. Smith, Brewer, Rutherford, Gagnon, Guest, Guffey, Weeks, Hosey and Yow: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-21-620, RELATING TO TAX RATES ON PRODUCTS CONTAINING TOBACCO, SO AS TO TAX 222
CIGARETTES FOR HEATING ONE AND ONE-QUARTER MILLS ON EACH CIGARETTE.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (LC-4303.DG0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 12-21-620(A) and inserting:
(A) There shall be levied, assessed, collected, and paid in respect to the articles containing tobacco or nicotine enumerated in this section the following amounts:
(1) upon all cigarettes for smoking made of tobacco or any substitute for tobacco, three and one-half mills on each cigarette;
(2) upon all cigarettes for heating made of tobacco or any substitute for tobacco, fourteen and one-quarter mills on each cigarette. The proceeds of this item must be deposited in the South Carolina Medicaid Reserve Fund created pursuant to Section 11-11-230(B);
(2)(3) upon all tobacco products, as defined in Section 12-21-800, five percent of the manufacturer's price;
(4) upon all vapor products and electronic cigarettes, a tax of five cents per milliliter of consumable nicotine liquid solution or other material containing nicotine that is depleted as a vapor product is used. The proceeds of this item must be deposited in the South Carolina Medicaid Reserve Fund created pursuant to Section 11-11-230(B).
Manufacturer's price as used in this section is the established price at which a manufacturer sells to a wholesaler.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DAVIS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GARRETT proposed the following amendment (LC-4303.SA0018S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 12-21-620(A)(2) and inserting:
(2) upon all cigarettes for heating made of tobacco or any substitute for tobacco, fourteen and one-quartertwenty-one and three hundred seventy-five thousandths mills on each cigarette. The proceeds of this item must be deposited in the South Carolina Medicaid Reserve Fund created pursuant to Section 11-11-230(B);
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GARRETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Davis Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
Bright Leber Martin Walker
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
H. 4000 (Word version) -- Reps. M.M. Smith, Stavrinakis, B.L. Cox, Davis, Wetmore, Bustos, Teeple, Holman, Spann-Wilder, Kirby, Robbins, Landing, Hartnett, Brewer, Gilliard, Gatch, J. Moore, T. Moore, Murphy, W. Newton, Duncan and Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-100, RELATING TO THE PERSONS ENTITLED TO BE LICENSEES OR PERMITTEES, SO AS TO ADD PERFORMING ARTS AND CONVENTION COMPLEXES; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-515, RELATING TO THE PERMIT FOR PURCHASE AND SALE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO ADD PERFORMING ARTS AND CONVENTION COMPLEXES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-2016, RELATING TO THE BIENNIAL LICENSE FOR PURCHASE AND SALE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO ADD PERFORMING ARTS AND CONVENTION COMPLEXES.
On motion of Senator JOHNSON, the Bill was carried over.
H. 4544 (Word version) -- Reps. Jordan, W. Newton, M.M. Smith, B.L. Cox and Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-32-220, RELATING TO NONECONOMIC DAMAGES LIMIT AND EXCEPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR INTENT TO HARM, FELONY CONVICTIONS, AND INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-78-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE TORT CLAIMS ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MEANING OF "OCCURRENCE"; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-78-120, RELATING TO LIMITATION ON LIABILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THE LIMITATIONS MUST BE INCREASED OR DECREASED; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 33-56-180, RELATING TO LIMITED LIABILITY OF CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
On motion of Senator JOHNSON, the Bill was carried over.
H. 4670 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, C. Mitchell and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 15-1-350 SO AS TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR DEMANDS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, BODILY INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR WRONGFUL DEATH.
On motion of Senator JOHNSON, the Bill was carried over.
H. 3558 (Word version) -- Reps. Taylor, Pope, Hewitt, B. Newton, C. Mitchell, Yow, Oremus, Willis, Ligon and Guffey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ARTICLE 23 OF CHAPTER 1, TITLE 1, RELATING TO CALLS OR APPLICATIONS FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDING CONVENTIONS MADE TO CONGRESS, SO AS TO RETITLE THE ARTICLE, AND TO ADD NEW SECTIONS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE QUALIFICATIONS, APPOINTMENT, OATH, AND DUTIES OF COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO REPRESENT THE STATE AT AN ARTICLE V CONVENTION, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-3558.MW0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 1-1-1565(A)(1) and (2) and inserting:
(1) a two state senator senators, one a member of the majority political party in the Senate and one a member of the largest minority political party in the Senate appointed by the President of the Senate;
(2) a two state representative representatives, one a member of the majority political party in the House and one a member of the largest minority political party in the House appointed by the Speaker of the House;
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Fernandez
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senators PEELER and MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SR-4589.CEM0003S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 4-10-470(G), by adding an item to read:
(3) Notwithstanding Section 4-10-125, the approving resolution required pursuant to Section 4-10-25 must be adopted by the county's governing body.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Gambrell Garrett Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Bright Fernandez
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SEDU-4706.DB0001S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 15-1-350(B) and inserting:
(B) A racing facility is not subject to any action brought by a surrounding property owner under any nuisance or taking cause of action if the developer of the racing facility obtained all permits required for construction of the racing facility, and established a vested right in the development of the property or contiguous group of properties where the racing facility is located and the development of such could have been discovered by a search of public documents or permits before the surrounding property owner either purchased the real property or constructed any building in the area of the racing facility.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, Section 15-1-350, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) This section does not apply if the racing facility makes a substantial and material expansion of operations that results in a significant increase in the overall intensity of use of the facility, including but not limited to a demonstrable increase in the number of racing event days beyond historical patterns of operation existing before a surrounding property owner either purchased the real property or constructed any building in the area of the racing facility.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senator HEMBREE proposed the following amendment (SEDU-4706.DB0003S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 15-1-350(B) and inserting:
(B) A racing facility is not subject to any action brought by a surrounding property owner under any nuisance or taking cause of action if the developer of the racing facility obtained all permits required for construction of the racing facility, and established a vested right in the development of the property or contiguous group of properties where the racing facility is located and the development of such could have been discovered by a search of public documents or permits before the surrounding property owner either purchased the real property or constructed any building in the area of the racing facility.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, Section 15-1-350, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) This section does not apply if the racing facility makes a substantial and material expansion of operations that results in a significant increase in the overall intensity of use of the facility, including but not limited to a demonstrable increase in the number of racing event days beyond historical patterns of operation existing before a surrounding property owner either purchased the real property or constructed any building in the area of the racing facility.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator HEMBREE, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senators HEMBREE and HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4706.LMS0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 15-1-350(B) and inserting:
(B) A racing facility is not subject to any action brought by a surrounding property owner under any nuisance or taking cause of action if the developer of the racing facility obtained all permits required for construction of the racing facility, and established a vested right in the development of the property or contiguous group of properties where the racing facility is located and the development of such could have been discovered by reasonable inquiry, including but not limited to a search of public documents or permits, before the surrounding property owner either purchased the real property or constructed any building in the area of the racing facility.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, Section 15-1-350, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) This section does not apply if the racing facility makes a substantial and material expansion of operations that results in a significant increase in the overall intensity of use of the facility, including but not limited to a demonstrable increase beyond a factor of two in the number of racing event days beyond historical patterns of operation existing before a surrounding property owner either purchased the real property or constructed any building in the area of the racing facility.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators MARTIN and RICE proposed the following amendment (SR-4706.CEM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 15-1-350, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) The Greenville-Pickens Speedway is not subject to any action brought by surrounding property owners under any nuisance or taking cause of action.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Bright Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler 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. 3570 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Spann-Wilder, W. Newton, C. Mitchell, Bowers and Calhoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-100, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND "PUBLIC MEMBER" TO INCLUDE A PERSON NOMINATED AND APPOINTED TO A NONCOMPENSATED PART-TIME POSITION ON A BOARD, COMMISSION, OR COUNCIL; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1100 SO AS TO OUTLINE RESPONSIBILITIES FOR DISCLOSING ECONOMIC INTERESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1110, RELATING TO STATEMENTS OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS, SO AS TO ADDRESS AGENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR FILING DISCLOSURE FORMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1170, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC MEMBER WHO FILES THE INITIAL STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS WITHIN TEN DAYS AFTER NOTICE FROM THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION SHALL NOT BE IN VIOLATION OF CHAPTER 13, TITLE 8; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1356, RELATING TO FILING DEADLINES FOR ECONOMIC INTERESTS STATEMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE WHEN CERTAIN CANDIDATES FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SJ-3570.PB0008S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Section 8-13-100(27) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(27) "Public official" means an elected or appointed official of the State, a county, a municipality, or a political subdivision thereof, including candidates for the office, and the head of each certified political party. "Public official" does not mean a member of the judiciary except that for the purposes of campaign practices, campaign disclosure, and disclosure of economic interests, a probate judge is considered a public official and must meet the requirements of this chapter.
SECTION X. Section 8-13-1300(28) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(28) "Public official" means an elected or appointed official of the State, a county, a municipality or a political subdivision thereof, including candidates for the office, and the head of each certified political party. However, "public official" does not mean a member of the judiciary except for purposes of campaign financing. A probate judge is considered a public official and must meet the requirements of this article.
SECTION X. Section 2-17-10(14) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(14) "Lobbyist's principal" means the person on whose behalf and for whose benefit the lobbyist engages in lobbying and who directly employs, appoints, or retains a lobbyist to engage in lobbying. However, a lobbyist's principal does not include a person who belongs to an association or organization that employs a lobbyist, nor an employee, officer, or shareholder of a person who employs a lobbyist. If a membership association or organization is a lobbyist's principal, the association or organization must register and report under the provisions of this chapter. A person is considered a lobbyist's principal only as to the public office or public body to which he has authorized, pursuant to this chapter, a lobbyist to engage in lobbying. Each certified political party is a lobbyist's principal.
SECTION X. Section 2-17-10(13) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(13) "Lobbyist" means any person who is employed, appointed, or retained, with or without compensation, by another person, including a certified political party, to influence by direct communication with public officials or public employees: (i) the action or vote of any member of the General Assembly, the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, or any other statewide constitutional officer concerning any legislation; (ii) the vote of any public official on any state agency, board, or commission concerning any covered agency actions; or (iii) the action of the Governor or any member of his executive staff concerning any covered gubernatorial actions. "Lobbyist" also means any person who is employed, appointed, or retained, with or without compensation, by a state agency, college, university, or other institution of higher learning to influence by direct communication with public officials or public employees: (i) the action or vote of any member of the General Assembly, the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, or any other statewide constitutional officer concerning any legislation; (ii) the vote of any public official of any state agency, board, or commission concerning any covered agency actions; or (iii) the action of the Governor or any member of his executive staff concerning any covered gubernatorial actions. "Lobbyist" does not include:
(a) an individual who receives no compensation to engage in lobbying and who expresses a personal opinion on legislation, covered gubernatorial actions, or covered agency actions to any public official or public employee;
(b) a person who appears only before public sessions of committees or subcommittees of the General Assembly, public hearings of state agencies, public hearings before any public body of a quasi-judicial nature, or proceedings of any court of this State;
(c) any duly elected or appointed official or employee of the State, the United States, a county, municipality, school district, or a political subdivision thereof, or a member of the judiciary when appearing solely on matters pertaining to his office and public duties unless lobbying constitutes a regular and substantial portion of such official's or employee's duties;
(d) a person performing professional services in drafting legislation or in advising and rendering opinions to clients as to the construction and effect of proposed or pending legislation;
(e) a person who owns, publishes, or is employed by a radio station, television station, wire service, or other bona fide news medium which in the ordinary course of business disseminates news, editorials, columns, other comments, or other regularly published periodicals if such person represents no other person in lobbying for legislation, covered agency actions, or covered gubernatorial actions. This exception applies to the publication of any periodical which is published and distributed by a membership organization to its subscribers at least twelve times annually and for which an annual subscription charge of at least one dollar fifty cents a subscriber is made;
(f) a person who represents any established church solely for the purpose of protecting the rights of the membership of the church or for the purpose of protecting the doctrines of the church or on matters considered to have an adverse effect upon the moral welfare of the membership of the church;
(g) a person who is running for office elected by the General Assembly or a person soliciting votes on the behalf of a person who is running for office elected by the General Assembly unless such person is otherwise defined as a lobbyist by this section; or
(h) an individual who receives no compensation to engage in lobbying and who does not make expenditures or incur obligations for lobbying in an aggregate amount in excess of five hundred dollars in a calendar year.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator KIMBRELL explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Bright Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler 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.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:
H. 4476 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford, Bamberg, J. Moore, Herbkersman and Rivers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 80 TO TITLE 39 ENTITLED "SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION" SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION AND PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP AND PURPOSE.
Senator YOUNG desired to be recorded as voting against the third reading of the Bill.
Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.
H. 3510 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Davis, M.M. Smith, Vaughan, Chapman, Kirby, Landing, Bustos, Yow, C. Mitchell, Hart, Williams, Luck, Gagnon and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-40, RELATING TO COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECRETARY OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS SHALL APPOINT ONE COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICER FOR EACH COUNTY IN THE STATE AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL APPROPRIATE THE NECESSARY FUNDS FOR TWO FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES IN EACH COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICE.
On motion of Senator YOUNG, the Bill was carried over.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:
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.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator STUBBS proposed the following amendment (SJ-5217.SW0001S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 50-9-650(2)(a) and inserting:
(a) With the purchase of a South Carolina hunting license and a big game permit, a resident shall be issued twothree individual antlerless deer tags and threetwo unrestricted individual antlered deer tags for use in black powder and rifle hunting. Persons under the age of sixteen, lifetime, and gratis licensees may receive these tags upon request to the department. Residents, including persons under the age of sixteen, lifetime, and gratis licensees also may purchase:
(i) two antler restriction individual antlered deer tags valid for deer with a minimum of four points on one antler or a minimum twelve-inch inside antler spread for five dollars per tag; and
(ii) additional individual antlerless deer tags for five dollars per tag.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, Section 50-9-650, by adding a subsection to read:
(3) With the purchase of a South Carolina hunting license and a big game permit, a resident shall be issued three archery tags, either sex, to be used in season of Game Zones 2, 3, and 4, in addition to the black powder and rifle hunting tags.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator STUBBS explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator STUBBS, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
At 11:49 A.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.
Senators OTT, CORBIN, GARRETT, MARTIN, and YOUNG proposed the following amendment (SFGF-5217.BC0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 50-9-650(2)(a) and inserting:
(a) With the purchase of a South Carolina hunting license and a big game permit, a resident shall be issued twothree individual antlerless deer tags, and threetwo unrestricted individual antlered deer tags, and one antler restriction individual antlered deer tag valid for deer with a minimum of four points on one antler or a minimum twelve-inch inside antler spread. Persons under the age of sixteen, lifetime, and gratis licensees may receive these tags upon request to the department. Residents, including persons under the age of sixteen, lifetime, and gratis licensees also may purchase:
(i) two antler restriction individual antlered deer tags valid for deer with a minimum of four points on one antler or a minimum twelve-inch inside antler spread for five dollars per tag; and
(ii) additional individual antlerless deer tags for five dollars per tag.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 2 and inserting:
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governoron January 2, 2027.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator OTT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
The question being third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Bennett Blackmon Bright Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler 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 12:44 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate receded from business.
At 2:14 P.M., the Senate resumed.
Senator PEELER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Bright Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
Senator BLACKMON recorded his presence subsequent to the Call of the Senate.
Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.
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.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (SJ-5120.SW0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 63-19-2020(E)(1)(c) and inserting:
(c) assault and battery against school personnel, as defined in Section 16-3-612 where the victim is a school employee or volunteer;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 63-19-2030(E)(4) and inserting:
(4) assault and battery against school personnel, as defined in Section 16-3-612 where the victim is a school employee or volunteer;
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator ADAMS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator MASSEY proposed the following amendment (SJ-5120.MB0002S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Section 63-19-20(1) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(1) "Child" or "juvenile" means a person less than eighteen years of age. "Child" or "juvenile" does not mean:
(a) a person seventeen years of age or older who is charged with a Class A, B, C, or D felony as defined in Section 16-1-20 or a felony which provides for a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years or more, any offense in Chapter 23, Title 16, or charged pursuant to Section 44-53-379. However, a person seventeen years of age who is charged with a Class A, B, C, or D felony as defined in Section 16-1-20 or, a felony which provides for a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years or more, any offense in Chapter 23, Title 16, or charged pursuant to Section 44-53-379 may be remanded to the family court for disposition of the charge at the discretion of the solicitor.; or
(b) a person sixteen years of age or older who is charged with a felony that provides a term of imprisonment of thirty years or more, the offense of burglary in the first degree, as defined in Section 16-11-311, or the offense of attempted murder as defined Section 16-3-29. However, a person sixteen years of age or older who is charged with a felony that provides for a term of imprisonment of thirty years or more, the offense of burglary in the first degree as defined in Section 16-11-311, or the offense of attempted murder as defined in Section 16-3-29 may be remanded to the family court for disposition of the charge at the discretion of the solicitor or by order of the circuit court, sua sponte.
An additional or accompanying charge associated with the charges contained in this item must be heard by the court with jurisdiction over the offenses contained in this item.
SECTION X. Section 63-19-1210(9) and (10) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 63-19-1210. (9) If a child fourteen, fifteen, or sixteen years of age or older is charged with a violation of Section 16-23-430, Section 16-23-20, or Section 44-53-445, the court, after full investigation and hearing, if it considers it contrary to the best interest of the child or the public to retain jurisdiction, acting as committing magistrate, may bind over the child for proper criminal proceedings to a court which would have trial jurisdiction of the offenses if committed by an adult.
(10) If a child fourteen, fifteen, or sixteen years of age or older is charged with an offense which, if committed by an adult, provides for a term of imprisonment of ten years or more and the child previously has been adjudicated delinquent in family court or convicted in circuit court for twoa prior offenses offense which, if committed by an adult, provide provides for a term of imprisonment of ten years or more, the court, after full investigation and hearing, if it considers it contrary to the best interest of the child or the public to retain jurisdiction, acting as committing magistrate, may bind over the child for proper criminal proceedings to a court which would have trial jurisdiction of the offense if committed by an adult. For the purpose of this item, an adjudication or conviction is considered a second adjudication or conviction only if the date of the commission of the second offense occurred subsequent to the imposition of the sentence for the first offense.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
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 Johnson Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 920 (Word version) -- Senators Leber, Blackmon and Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 TO CHAPTER 71, TITLE 38 SO AS TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT MUST BE CONSIDERED WHEN A HEALTH INSURER USES ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO MAKE DETERMINATIONS RELATING TO PRIOR AUTHORIZATIONS, TO PROVIDE CERTAIN DISCLOSURES TO ENROLLEES, AND TO PROVIDE DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS FOR VIOLATIONS.
Senator TURNER objected to consideration of the Bill.
H. 4300 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Jordan, W. Newton, Yow, C. Mitchell and Luck: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-8-50, RELATING TO SERVICE CREDIT IN THE RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR JUDGES AND SOLICITORS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT JUDGES ARE VESTED IN THE SYSTEM AFTER ATTAINING EIGHT YEARS OF EARNED SERVICE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 9-8-60, RELATING TO THE RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR JUDGES' AND SOLICITORS' ALLOWANCES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE RETIREMENT AGE OF JUDGES FROM SEVENTY-TWO TO SEVENTY-FOUR.
Senator RANKIN objected to consideration of the Bill.
H. 4591 (Word version) -- Reps. Guffey, Pope, Oremus, Martin, Schuessler, Sessions, T. Moore, Chapman, Lawson, Brewer, Ford, Pedalino, Ligon, Robbins, Terribile, Huff, Govan, Wickensimer, Lastinger, W. Newton, Hewitt, Calhoon and Gibson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "STOP HARM FROM ADDICTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA (SHASM) ACT"; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO REQUIRE COVERED SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO USE REASONABLE MEANS TO ESTIMATE THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO VERIFY THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO CREATE DEFAULT ACCOUNT SETTINGS FOR CERTAIN USERS, AND TO CREATE CERTAIN PARENTAL CONSENTS.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senators DAVIS and LEBER proposed the following amendment (SR-4591.CEM0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-910(7), (8), (9), (10), (11), (12), (13), and (14) and inserting:
(7) "Minor" means a South Carolina resident who is under the age of majority but not including emancipated minors.
(8)(7) "Notice to a parent" has the meaning established in the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, 15 U.S.C. Section 6501 and implementing regulations at 16 C.F.R. Part 312.4.
(9)(8) "Parent" includes any legal guardian of a child who is a South Carolina resident.
(10)(a)(9)(a) "Personal information" means information about an account holder collected online that comprises "personal information" within the meaning of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, 15 U.S.C. Section 6501(8) and implementing regulations, and:
(i) any record of or derived from online activity or history, search history, or online communications of an account holder with respect to any application, website, or social media platform;
(ii) any photograph or biometric information that is used or could reasonably be used to identify the account holder including, but not limited to, fingerprints, voiceprints, iris or retina imagery scans, facial templates, and gait imagery or metrics; and
(iii) any geolocation information associated with an account holder or with a device of an account holder.
(b) The following do not constitute personal information "Personal information" does not mean:
(i) an express search term, request, or selection submitted by the account holder during the current session on the covered social media platform;
(ii) an identifier used solely for the purpose of directing personal communications to or from the account holder; or
(iii) information that comprises account holder-selected or parent-selected settings relating to privacy, accessibility, or blocking of age-inappropriate content or technical information concerning the account holder's device.
(11)(10) "Profile-based paid commercial advertising" means paid commercial advertising that has been selected or prioritized for display to an account holder based in whole or in part on personal information of the account holder. Advertising selected for display to an account holder is not profile-based paid commercial advertising if that selection process considers information about or an estimate of the age of the account holder solely for the purpose of excluding advertisements which by law or policy of the covered social media platform are not suitable for presentation to a child of that age.
(12)(a)(11)(a) "Profile-based feed" means a feed in which the material presented has been selected or prioritized by the covered social media platform for display to an account holder based in whole or in part on personal information of that account holder. Content created by a third party that is displayed to the account holder because the account holder has taken an affirmative step to select the third party's content for inclusion in the feed displayed to the account holder, such as by following, friending, or engaging in a similar action in relation to the third party, and not otherwise selected or prioritized for display to the account holder based on personal information, shall not render such feed a profile-based feed.
(b) An exclusion by a covered social media platform of certain content from the feed of an account holder based on information about or any estimate of the age of an account holder, solely for the purpose of excluding content which that is obscene as to children aged sixteen or younger or by a policy of the covered social media platform that the content is not suitable for presentation to children of that age, does not render that feed a profile-based feed.
(13)(12) "Second trigger date" means, with respect to each account holder and each covered social media platform, the date upon which it first becomes true that the account holder has been on the covered social media platform for fifty hours or more within a six-month period following the effective date of this act.
(14)(13) "Social media platform" means an internet website or application that is open to the public, allows a user to create an account, and enables an account holder to communicate with other users for the primary purpose of posting and viewing information, comments, messages, images, or videos. The term does not include:
(a) a broadband internet access service as defined by the Federal Communications Commission;
(b) an online service, website, or application where the exclusive function is the support of communications, including email, video conferencing, or direct messaging consisting of text, photographs, pictures, images, or videos, only between the sender and recipients specifically identified by the sender, without displaying or posting publicly or to other users not specifically identified as the recipients by the sender; or
(c) an online service, application, or website the content of which consists primarily of information or content that is not generated by the user.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-920(A) and (B) and inserting:
(A) Within fourteen days of the first trigger date, the covered social media platform must use reasonable means and reasonable efforts, taking into consideration available technology and the data in the possession of the covered social media platform, to estimate the age of the account holder. If the covered social media platform is able to conclude with eighty percent confidence that the account holder is over fifteen years of age, then the covered social media platform may treat the account holder to be other than a child for purposes of this article. Otherwise, the covered social media platform must treat the account holder as a child for purposes of this article.
(B) Within fourteen days of the second trigger date, the covered social media platform must use reasonable means and reasonable efforts to revise its estimate of the age of the account holder. If the covered social media platform is able to conclude with ninety percent confidence that the account holder is over fifteen years of age, then the covered social media platform may treat the account holder to be other than a child for purposes of this act. Otherwise, the covered social media platform must treat the account holder as a child for purposes of this act.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-920(E) and inserting:
(E) A covered social media platform has no obligation under this article to estimate the age of an account holder who has had an account with the covered social media platform continuously for at least seven years as of the effective date of this act or to take any action with respect to such account.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-930(B)(1) and inserting:
(B)(1) An account for a child must have all privacy settings set by default at the most private levels. A covered social media platform may not change the The privacy settings of an account of a child shall not be changed without first obtaining verifiable parental consent for such change for as long as the account holder remains a child.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-940(D) and inserting:
(D) A covered social media platform shall provide clear, simple, and easy-to-locate means for the parent of any child to request termination of any account of a minorchild.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-950(A) and inserting:
(A) If a covered social media platform makes a determination that it must terminate an account because the account holder has been classified as a child and verifiable parental consent has not been obtained, then the covered social media platform shall notify the account holder of its intent to terminate the account within seven days of making that determination, and shall provide the reason therefor.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-950(C) and inserting:
(C) If an account holder disputes his classification as a child, then a covered social media platform may rely on any commercially reasonable age verification process to resolve the dispute.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-970 and inserting:
Section 39-5-970. If a covered social media platform permits a child to open or continue an account on such platform in the absence of parental consent sufficient for the formation of a binding contract with a minor child under ordinary principles of contract law under the laws of this State, then any purported contract pertaining to such account is void and unenforceable as contrary to public policy including, but not limited to, any arbitration provision, limitation of liability, or limitation of remedies, without regard to whether the covered social media platform had actual or constructive knowledge that the account holder was a child.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 39-5-1000 and inserting:
Section 39-5-1000. A waiver or limitation of any prohibition, limitation, requirement, or right to remedies established by this article, by any minor child or parent, is unlawful, contrary to public policy, void ab initio, and of no effect, and no court or arbitrator may enforce or give effect to any such waiver, notwithstanding any contract or choice-of-law provision in a contract.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DAVIS explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator DAVIS spoke on the Bill.
Senator LEBER spoke on the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator ELLIOTT 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.
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
Senators BRIGHT and FERNANDEZ desired to be recorded as voting against the second reading of the Bill.
H. 5018 (Word version) -- Rep. G.M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-1-1210, RELATING TO ANNUAL SALARIES OF CERTAIN STATE OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SALARIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MUST BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-160, RELATING TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION AND SALARY INCREASES FOR AGENCY HEADS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SALARIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MUST BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO AUTHORIZE A STUDY EVERY FOUR YEARS TO RECOMMEND SALARY RANGES FOR THE GOVERNOR AND LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-165, RELATING TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION AND ITS DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
The Senate proceeded to consideration of the Bill.
Senator HEMBREE explained the Bill.
The question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senator HEMBREE 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. 5189 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Guffey, King, Ligon, Martin, Moss, Sessions and Terribile: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME A PORTION OF CHARLOTTE AVENUE IN THE CITY OF ROCK HILL IN YORK COUNTY FROM THE INTERSECTION OF MCDOW DRIVE TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH NORTH AVENUE "OFFICER STEVEN WAYNE JORDAN MEMORIAL STREET" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5190 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Guffey, King, Ligon, Martin, Moss, Sessions and Terribile: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SALUDA STREET IN THE CITY OF ROCK HILL IN YORK COUNTY FROM THE INTERSECTION OF JOHNSTON STREET TO ALBRIGHT ROAD "OFFICER ROBERT MORRIS MCFADDEN MEMORIAL STREET" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5191 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Guffey, King, Ligon, Martin, Moss, Sessions and Terribile: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME A PORTION OF BLACK STREET IN THE CITY OF ROCK HILL IN YORK COUNTY, FROM ALBRIGHT ROAD TO ORANGE STREET, "DETECTIVE WILLIAM A. SINGLETON MEMORIAL STREET" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
The Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5192 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, Guffey, King, Ligon, Martin, Moss, Sessions and Terribile: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF JOHNSTON STREET IN THE CITY OF ROCK HILL IN YORK COUNTY FROM THE ON RAMP TO DAVE LYLE BOULEVARD TO SOUTH WILSON STREET "OFFICER ROBERT GILMORE JOHNSTON MEMORIAL STREET" 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 3:41 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.
HAVING DISPENSED WITH THE MOTION PERIOD, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.
S. 695 (Word version) -- Senators Young, Graham, Devine, Walker and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA SAFEGUARDING AMERICAN VETERANS' BENEFITS ACT"; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 8 TO CHAPTER 11, TITLE 25, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, SET GUIDELINES AND LIMITS FOR COMPENSATION, MEMORIALIZE TERMS, AND STATE PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator YOUNG explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
S. 787 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 37-3-110 SO AS TO DEFINE BRIDGE LOANS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 37-3-402, RELATING TO BALLOON PAYMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO BRIDGE LOANS.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator CROMER explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator CROMER, 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.
H. 3768 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, Gatch, Robbins, Schuessler, Sessions and Kirby: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ACT 36 OF 2019, RELATING TO HIGHWAY SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION, SO AS TO CHANGE THE SUNSET EXPIRATION PROVISION TO JULY 1, 2031.
The House returned the Bill with amendments, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.
Senator GROOMS explained the amendments.
On motion of Senator GROOMS, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.
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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
The Committee on Banking and Insurance proposed the following amendment (LC-5538.SA0004S), 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 "Guarantee Banking Act."
SECTION 2. Title 34 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Guarantee Banking
Section 34-47-10. As used in this chapter:
(1) "Adverse action" means a decision by a financial institution to decline to provide full and equal access in the provision of covered financial services and includes refusing to provide, terminating, or restricting covered financial services. "Adverse action" does not include the temporary suspension or restriction of an account pending an internal investigation, fraud review, or verification of identity.
(2) "Discriminate in the provision of covered financial services" means taking an adverse action against a customer on the basis of one of the following criteria:
(a) any person's exercise of religion that is protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, federal law, or the Constitution or laws of this State, including all aspects of religious observance and practice, as well as belief and affiliation;
(b) any person's speech, expression, opinions, expressive activity, or association that is protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, federal law, or the Constitution or laws of this State, including the lawful preservation of privacy regarding those activities, such as declining to disclose contributions or political activity beyond what is required by applicable state and federal law. This section does not prohibit a financial institution from declining to provide financial services to a person that is engaged in fraud, criminal conduct, incitement to unlawful actions, or that creates obscenity or another form of expression that is not protected by the Constitution of South Carolina or the United States Constitution;
(c) any factor if it is not a quantitative, impartial, and risk-based standard, including any such factor related to the person's business sector;
(d) animus towards a person based on the factors in subitem (a), (b), or (c); and
(e) a desire to, directly or indirectly, obtain a gain from or avoid a loss imposed on the covered financial institution by any person for the purpose of encouraging the covered financial institution to take an adverse action based on any of the factors in subitem (a), (b), or (c).
(3)(a) "Financial institution" means:
(i) a bank that has total assets over one hundred billion dollars; or
(ii) a payment processor, credit card company, credit card network, payment network, payment service provider, or payment gateway that has processed more than one hundred billion dollars in transactions in the last calendar year.
(b) A financial institution includes any parent company, holding company, affiliate, or subsidiary company, even if that company is also a financial institution.
(4)(a) "Covered financial service" means:
(i) depository accounts including, but not limited to, checking accounts, savings accounts, or NOW accounts;
(ii) money transmission including, but not limited to, checking, payment services, ACH, or credit card networks; or
(iii) credit including, but not limited to, personal loans, mortgages, business loans, or credit cards.
(b) "Covered financial service" does not include the provision of insurance or the underwriting of or an investment in a security as defined by federal law.
(5) "Person" means any individual, partnership, association, joint stock company, trust, corporation, nonprofit organization, or other business or legal entity that is a resident of this State or has its principal place of business in this State.
Section 34-47-20. (A) If a financial institution takes an adverse action against a person, that person may request a statement of specific reasons within ninety days after receiving notice of the refusal to provide service, restriction of service, or termination of service.
(B) The person may request the statement from a customer service representative or designated account representative by phone, U.S. mail, or electronic mail.
(C) When a person requests a statement pursuant to subsections (A) and (B), then that person must specifically describe the alleged adverse action, including which provision of Section 34-47-10(2) is the basis for the alleged adverse action.
(D) Unless otherwise prohibited or otherwise required by federal law, the financial institution shall transmit the statement of specific reasons via U.S. mail and electronic mail, if known to the financial institution, within thirty days of receiving the person's request.
(E) The statement must be specific and include a description of the principal reason for the adverse action. A statement that the adverse action was based on the institution's internal standards or policies or that the person failed to achieve a qualifying score on the institution's credit scoring system is insufficient. If any criteria listed in Section 34-47-10(2) factored into the institution's decision to take an adverse action, it must be described in the statement.
(F) If the financial institution provides an adverse action statement to the customer consistent with its obligations under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, 15 U.S.C. Section 1691 et. seq., and implementing regulations or the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 U.S.C. Section 1681 et. seq., and implementing regulations, that statement satisfies the requirements of this subsection, provided that if any criteria listed in Section 34-47-10(2) factored into the institution's decision to take an adverse action, it must be described in the statement, a supplement to the statement, or a separate statement that is provided to the customer contemporaneously with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act or Fair Credit Reporting Act adverse action statement.
(G) Nothing in this section shall be construed to require a covered entity to provide notice or take any action that would conflict with applicable federal law, regulation, or supervisory guidance.
Section 34-47-30. A financial institution may not:
(1) discriminate in the provision of financial services to a person;
(2) agree, conspire, or coordinate, including through any intermediary or third party, with another person, or group of persons, to engage in activity prohibited pursuant to item (1); or
(3) fail to provide or provide false or intentionally misleading information in the statement required pursuant to Section 34-47-20.
Section 34-47-40. It is not a violation of this chapter for a financial institution to take any of the following actions, provided that the action was made in good faith and not motivated by animus or a desire to discriminate in the provision of covered financial services against a person:
(1) a change in the terms of an account expressly agreed to by a customer;
(2) any action or forbearance relating to an account taken in connection with inactivity, default, or delinquency as to that account;
(3) a refusal to provide services because applicable federal or state law prohibits the covered financial institution from providing the service requested;
(4) a refusal to provide a service because the covered financial institution does not offer the type of service requested;
(5) a decision based solely on any of the following valid business factors, if made in an impartial manner and in good faith:
(a) maximizing profitability or shareholder value, provided this determination is not based on a desire to obtain a benefit or avoid a harm imposed by another person because the covered financial institution served a customer;
(b) complying with legitimate legal or regulatory requirements; or
(c) maintaining the safety and soundness of a covered financial institution or its employees.
Section 34-47-50. Any violation of this chapter is an unfair or deceptive act or practice and, in addition to the rights and remedies provided in this chapter, the Attorney General may pursue any other remedies provided for by law.
Section 34-47-80. The State and any political subdivision thereof may not impose any restriction, obligation, or penalty identical or substantially similar to what is contained in this chapter, whether by regulation, rule, guidance, or enforcement, on financial institutions not covered by this chapter, unless the State or any political subdivision thereof is required to impose such restriction, obligation, or penalty under federal or state law.
Section 34-47-90. This chapter must be construed in favor of the broad protection of the conduct, opinions, and beliefs protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, applicable federal laws, the Constitution of South Carolina, and state law.
SECTION 3. This act takes effect six months after the signature by the Governor.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator BENNETT proposed the following amendment (SR-5538.CEM0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 34-47-20(D) and inserting:
(D) Unless otherwise prohibited or otherwise required by federal law, the financial institution shall transmit the statement of specific reasons via U.S. mail and or electronic mail, if known to the financial institution, within thirty days of receiving the person's request.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator BENNETT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senators CLIMER and KIMBRELL proposed the following amendment (LC-5538.DG0001S), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X.A. Section 6-5-15 (G) and (H) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(G) "Qualified public depository" means a national banking association, state banking association, federal savings and loan association, or federal savings bank located in this State and a bank, trust company, or savings institution organized under the law of this State that receives or holds funds that are secured pursuant to this chapter, or a credit union.
(H) In addition to the investments authorized for local entities in Section 6-5-10 and notwithstanding another provision of law, a local entity may deposit all or a portion of surplus public funds in its control or possession in accordance with the following conditions:
(1) the funds are initially deposited in a qualified public depository selected by the local entity;
(2) the selected qualified public depository arranges for depositing the funds in one or more federally insured banks, credit unions, or savings and loan associations, wherever located, for the account of the local entity;
(3) the full amount of the principal and accrued interest of each deposit is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund; and
(4) The local entity may only deposit its surplus funds in federally insured credit unions to the same extent as the State Treasurer pursuant to Section 11-13-60; and
(4)(5) the selected qualified public depository acts as custodian for the local entity with respect to each deposit.
(I) A credit union may not hold more than ten percent of its assets from local entities.
(J) All credit unions may not collectively hold more than ten percent of their assets from local entities. This calculation is based on the total assets of the Local Government Investment Pool on December 31st of the previous year.
B. This SECTION takes effect January 1, 2027.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator CLIMER explained the amendment.
Senator CORBIN 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 GAMBRELL spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator BLACKMON spoke on the Point of Order.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
The amendment was ruled out of order.
Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (SMIN-5538.MW0002S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, Section 34-47-40, by adding a subsection to read:
(6) a refusal to provide or termination of covered financial services to a person or organization if the refusal or termination is based on documented evidence that the person or organization:
(a) has been designated by the United States Department of State as a foreign terrorist organization pursuant to 8 U.S.C. Section 1189, or by the United States Department of the Treasury as a specially designated national or blocked person pursuant to federal law;
(b) has been convicted in a court of competent jurisdiction of engaging in acts of terrorism, material support for terrorism, organized violent criminal activity, or hate crimes as defined by federal or state law; or
(c) is engaged in conduct that constitutes incitement to imminent lawless action, true threats, or other categories of unprotected speech under the United States Constitution, and such conduct is documented and forms the basis for the adverse action.
A determination made pursuant to this item must be based on objective, documented evidence and may not be based solely on a person's lawful speech, expression, beliefs, or association protected by the First Amendment.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senator CLIMER proposed the following amendment (LC-5538.DG0002S), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X.A. Chapter 26, Article 4, Title 34 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 34-26-430. (A) A credit union insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund is considered a qualified public depository and authorized to collect deposits from a local entity as provided for in Section 6-5-15.
(B) A local entity may only deposit its surplus funds in federally insured credit unions to the same extent as the State Treasurer pursuant to Section 11-13-60.
(C) A credit union that accepts deposits from local entities may not hold more than ten percent of its assets from local entities.
(D) All credit unions that accept deposits from local entities may not collectively hold more than ten percent of their assets from local entities. This calculation is based on the total assets of the Local Government Investment Pool on December 31st of the previous year.
B. The provisions of this SECTION take effect January 1, 2027.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator CLIMER explained the amendment.
Senator CROMER spoke on the amendment.
Senator CROMER moved to lay the amendment on the table.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Alexander Allen Corbin Cromer Gambrell Garrett Hembree Martin Matthews Rankin Reichenbach Sabb Turner Walker Williams Young Zell
Adams Bennett Blackmon Bright Campsen Cash Climer Davis Elliott Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Massey Ott Peeler Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder
Having failed to receive the necessary vote, the motion to table failed.
Senator CORBIN 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 ELLIOTT spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator GAMBRELL spoke on the Point of Order.
Senator CORBIN spoke on the Point of Order.
The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.
The amendment was ruled out of order.
Senator CLIMER spoke on the Bill.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator CLIMER, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.
Senator LEBER proposed the following amendment (SR-5538.CEM0001S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 34-47-10(3)(a)(i) and (ii) and inserting:
(i) a bank that has total assets over one hundred billion dollars; or
(ii) a payment processor, credit card company, credit card network, payment network, payment service provider, or payment gateway that has processed more than one hundred billion dollars in transactions in the last calendar year.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator LEBER explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator LEBER, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
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 Bright Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
Hutto Walker
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the second reading of the Bill.
Senators VERDIN, HUTTO and CROMER proposed the following amendment (SR-4042.CEM0007S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-53-150(A) and inserting:
(A) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, FDA-approved ivermectin tablets product labeled for human use may be made available to the public for over-the-counter purchase in this State to any person who is at least eighteen years of age, provided ivermectin dispensed pursuant to this section must be maintained in an area accessible only to pharmacy personnel. No prescription order or consultation with a pharmacist or other healthcare professional shall be required for such purchase.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-53-150(B)(3) and inserting:
(3) Prohibitions on dispensing ivermectin when contraindications or clinically significant drug interactions exist based on a patient's medication profile or medical conditions. that contains any ingredients determined by the department to be harmful or in conflict with any current medications.
(C) The Board of Pharmacy shall not require documentation beyond that reasonably necessary to demonstrate compliance with this section and shall adopt rules necessary to implement this section within ninety days of the effective date.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-53-150(C) and (D) and inserting:
(C)(D) A pharmacist may rely upon information provided by or on behalf of the patient when acting pursuant to this section and is not liable for incomplete, inaccurate, or omitted information provided by or on behalf of a patient. A pharmacist acting in good faith and with reasonable care pursuant to this section is immune from disciplinary or adverse administrative actions from the Board of Pharmacy and is immune from civil liability in the absence of gross negligence or wilful misconduct. A pharmacist shall be deemed to have acted with reasonable care when acting in accordance with rules or procedures adopted by the Board Pharmacy pursuant to this section.
(E) Nothing in this section requires a pharmacist to:
(1) dispense ivermectin, when in the pharmacist's professional judgment, dispensing may jeopardize the health or safety of the patient; or
(2) stock ivermectin.
(D)(F) Nothing in this section shall be construed to require a health insurance issuer to provide coverage for the cost of ivermectin dispensed pursuant to the provisions of this section or to prevent a pharmacist from charging and administrative or dispensing fee for the services provided pursuant to this section.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator VERDIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator SUTTON proposed the following amendment (SMIN-4042.MW0002S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-53-150(A) and inserting:
(A) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, ivermectin tablets may be made available to the public for over-the-counter purchase in this State to any person who is at least eighteen years of age; however such sales must comply with the following. No prescription order or consultation with a pharmacist or other healthcare professional shall be required for such purchase.
(1) ivermectin tablets containing five milligrams or less may be sold in gas stations, convenience stores, and corner stores; however, such products must be maintained behind the counter and not accessible for self-service;
(2) ivermectin tablets containing ten milligrams or more may only be sold in establishments licensed for the retail sale of alcoholic liquors;
(3) products authorized for sale pursuant to item (2) must:
(a) be maintained behind the counter and not accessible for self-service;
(b) be sold in packages containing no more than four tablets; and
(c) not be sold on Sunday;
(4) no prescription order or consultation with a pharmacist or other healthcare professional shall be required for a purchase authorized pursuant to this subsection.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by deleting Section 44-53-150(C) and (D) from the bill.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator SUTTON explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator SUTTON, the amendment was withdrawn.
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 Bright Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Hutto Johnson Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
Matthews Sabb Walker
There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:
Reappointment, Greenville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Greenville County:
Hon. Alexis S. McElrath, 104 Panner Lane, Taylors, SC 29887
Reappointment, Richland County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Richland County:
Hon. Tomothy C. Edmond, 119 Old Camp Road, Elgin, SC 29045
Initial Appointment, Sumter County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2026, and to expire April 30, 2030
Sumter County:
John William Downer II, 2990 Highway 521, Sumter, SC 29153 VICE Kimberly W. Land
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed that if and when the Senate stands adjourned today, it will adjourn to meet tomorrow morning at 10:00 A.M.
Pursuant to an invitation the Honorable Speaker and House of Representatives appeared in the Senate Chamber on May 13, 2026, at 2:40 P.M. and the following Act and Joint Resolution were ratified:
(R127, S. 238 (Word version)) -- Senators Alexander, Peeler, Massey and Rankin: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 2-1-180, RELATING TO ADJOURNMENT OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND CONDITIONS FOR EXTENDED SESSION, 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 IF THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS BILL OR CAPITAL RESERVE FUND RESOLUTION IS NOT COMPLETED BY THE SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT DATE, TO PROVIDE THE TIME PERIOD DURING WHICH THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MAY BE CALLED BACK TO COMPLETE THOSE MATTERS AND ANY CONFERENCE COMMITTEES APPOINTED ON OR BEFORE THE DATE OF SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TOLLING OF THE ONE-HUNDRED-TWENTY-DAY PERIOD THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY HAS TO REVIEW STATE REGULATIONS.
L:\COUNCIL\ACTS\238AHB126.DOCX
(R128, S. 769 (Word version)) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander, Kimbrell, Verdin, Hembree, Turner and Bennett: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUING AUTHORITY TO PAY THE EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT IF THE 2026-2027 FISCAL YEAR BEGINS WITHOUT A GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 HAVING BEEN ENACTED, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS.
L:\COUNCIL\ACTS\769DG126.DOCX
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator CROMER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Gary Tusten Pope of Newberry, S.C. Gary graduated from the University of the South in Sewanee, TN and from Washington and Lee University School of Law in Lexington, VA. He joined his family law firm in Newberry before serving as the Newberry County Attorney and later with the Pope Flynn firm in Columbia. Gary was a lifelong member of Mensa and a trustee of the Pope-Brown Foundation. He enjoyed reading, playing with dogs, watching how- to-videos on YouTube and photography. Gary was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.
On motion of Senator GARRETT, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Don D.J. Keller of Greenwood, S.C. D.J. was a policeman with the Greenwood Police Department where he served for three years. He was a United States Army and National Guard veteran. D.J. was a loving husband and devoted father who served his country and community with great dedication and will be dearly missed.
At 6:49 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 10:00 A.M.
This web page was last updated on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 8:19 P.M.