NO. 57
REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025
________
The House assembled at 10:00 a.m.
Deliberations were opened with prayer by the SPEAKER as follows:
Our thought for today is from Proverbs 19:20: "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise."
Let us pray. Gracious God, You have crowned us with glory and honor and called us Your own. Grant to these Representatives and staff the wisdom, courage, integrity, and strength to reach and obtain the fulfillment of Your will. Continue to give each Your blessings and peace. Look in favor upon our Nation, President, State, Governor, Speaker, staff, and all who labor in these Halls of Government. Protect our defenders of freedom at home and abroad as they protect us. Heal our wounded warriors with You touch. Hear us, O Lord, as we pray. Amen.
Pursuant to Rule 6.3, the House of Representatives was led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America by the SPEAKER.
After corrections to the Journal of the proceedings of yesterday, the SPEAKER ordered it confirmed.
Rep. CLYBURN moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Thelma C. Edwards, which was agreed to.
Document No. 5319
Agency: State Board of Education
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-21-510, 59-33-10, and 59-33-120
Sign Language Interpreters
Received by Speaker of the House of Representatives January 14, 2025
Referred to Reg., Admin. Procedures, AI and Cybersecurity Committee
Legislative Review Expiration January 18, 2026
Revised: February 1, 2026
The following was received and referred to the appropriate committee for consideration:
Document No. 5371
Agency: State Board of Education
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-26-10, 59-26-30, and 59-26-40
Defined Program, Grades 9-12 and Graduation Requirements
Received by Speaker of the House of Representatives
May 8, 2025
Referred to Regulations, Admin. Proc., AI and Cybersecurity Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 12, 2026
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., May 8, 2025
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully invites your Honorable Body to attend in the Senate Chamber at a mutually convenient time for the purpose of ratifying Acts.
Very respectfully,
President
On motion of Rep. B. NEWTON the invitation was accepted.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., May 6, 2025
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the Governor's appointment of:
LOCAL REAPPOINTMENT
Lexington County Master-in-Equity
Initial Term Commencing: January 1, 2025
Initial Term Expiring: January 1, 2031
Type: Reappointment
Vice: Self
Contact Information:
The Honorable James Otto Spence
6521 Edmund Highway
Lexington, South Carolina 29073
Very Respectfully,
President of the Senate
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., May 6, 2025
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the Governor's appointment of:
LOCAL REAPPOINTMENT
Abbeville County Master-in-Equity
Initial Term Commencing: January 1, 2025
Initial Term Expiring: January 1, 2031
Type: Reappointment
Vice: Self
Contact Information:
The Honorable Robinson Hemphill
917 Olde Pucketts Ferry Road
Greenwood, South Carolina 29649
Very Respectfully,
President of the Senate
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., May 6, 2025
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the Governor's appointment of:
LOCAL REAPPOINTMENT
Georgetown County Master-in-Equity
Initial Term Commencing: January 1, 2025
Initial Term Expiring: January 1, 2031
Type: Reappointment
Vice: Self
Contact Information:
The Honorable Joe M. Crosby
405 Dozier Street
Georgetown, South Carolina 29440
Very Respectfully,
President of the Senate
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 171 (Word version):
S. 171 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell and Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 75, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR WASTE TIRE MANIFESTS AND RELATED PROVISIONS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 75, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE INSTALLATION OF UNSAFE USED TIRES, AND RELATED PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-96-170, RELATING TO WASTE TIRES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY MAY CHARGE UP TO FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS AS A TIPPING FEE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-96-170, RELATING TO WASTE TIRES, SO AS TO AMEND THE COLLECTION OF THE FEE TO INCLUDE USED TIRES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICATION OF THE WASTE TIRE FEE AND RELATED WASTE TIRE FUNDS, TO REMOVE THE REBATE PROVISIONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A STATEWIDE MARKET INFRASTRUCTURE FOR TIRE-DERIVED PRODUCTS; AND TO DIRECT THE CODE COMMISSIONER TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 101 (Word version):
S. 101 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-80-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA FIREFIGHTERS EMPLOYMENT AND REGISTRATION ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "FIRE DEPARTMENT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-80-40, RELATING TO FIREFIGHTER REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CLARIFICATION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-80-50, RELATING TO FIREFIGHTER REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A DRIVER'S LICENSE REQUIRED FOR DOCUMENTATION MUST BE ISSUED BY THIS STATE. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 89 (Word version):
S. 89 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-100, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY BASE TASK FORCE, SO AS TO RENAME THE TASK FORCE THE SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY AFFAIRS ADVISORY COUNCIL, TO REVISE THE COUNCIL'S MISSON, TO INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP ON THE COUNCIL, TO MANDATE THAT THE COUNCIL MEETS AT LEAST ONE TIME EACH CALENDAR YEAR, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 78 (Word version):
S. 78 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Young, Zell and Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-25-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL AWARD YEARS OF EXPERIENCE CREDIT FOR CERTAIN RELEVANT NON-TEACHING OCCUPATIONAL EXPERIENCE TO CERTIFICATES OF EDUCATORS WHO SATISFY CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE SUCH EXPERIENCE CREDIT MAY BE AWARDED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADVANCEMENT ON THE TEACHER SALARY SCHEDULE, TO PROVIDE OTHER EXISTING CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS REMAIN UNCHANGED BY THIS ACT; AND TO PROVIDE DIRECTIVES TO THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION CONCERNING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS ACT. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it nonconcurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 210 (Word version):
S. 210 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES AND TO ADD TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-20, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES, SO AS TO AMEND MEETING REQUIREMENTS AND OUTLINE COMPONENTS OF A PLAN OF OPERATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-40, RELATING TO CAPITALIZATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO GIVE DISCRETION TO THE DIRECTOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-60, RELATING TO INCORPORATION OPTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-70, RELATING TO REPORTS, SO AS TO CHANGE A DEADLINE AND INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-75, RELATING TO DISCOUNTING OF LOSS AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSE RESERVES, SO AS TO ALLOW A SPONSORED CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY TO FILE ONE ACTUARIAL OPINION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-80, RELATING TO INSPECTIONS AND EXAMINATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE THE EXAMINATION OF SOME CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES OPTIONAL AND TO INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-140, RELATING TO TAX PAYMENTS, SO AS TO AMEND REQUIRED TAX PAYMENTS FOR A SPONSORED CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-165, RELATING TO DECLARATION OF INACTIVITY, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE SUBMISSION OF A WRITTEN APPROVAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-175, RELATING TO THE CAPTIVE INSURANCE REGULATORY AND SUPERVISION FUND CREATED, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ALLOWED TRANSFER OF COLLECTED TAXES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-215, RELATING TO PROTECTED CELLS, SO AS TO REMOVE LICENSING REQUIREMENTS.
Very respectfully,
President
On motion of Rep. HERBKERSMAN, the House receded from its amendments, and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Wednesday, May 7
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 3309 (Word version):
H. 3309 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Gatch, Herbkersman, Pope, B. Newton, Wooten, Robbins, Mitchell, Chapman, W. Newton, Taylor, Forrest, Hewitt, Kirby, Schuessler, Yow, Long, M. M. Smith, Hardee, Montgomery, Atkinson, Hixon, Ligon, Anderson, Weeks, Willis, Govan and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY SECURITY ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-140, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION'S POWERS TO REGULATE PUBLIC UTILITIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A SCHEDULE FOR CERTAIN TESTIMONY AND DISCOVERY IN CONTESTED PROCEEDINGS, TO PERMIT ELECTRICAL UTILITY CUSTOMERS TO ADDRESS THE COMMISSION AS PUBLIC WITNESSES, AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR AN INDEPENDENT THIRD-PARTY CONSULTANT HIRED BY THE COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-250, RELATING TO SERVICE OF ORDERS AND DECISIONS ON PARTIES, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-4-10, RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF AND ITS REPRESENTATION OF PUBLIC INTEREST BEFORE THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH ITS CONSIDERATIONS FOR PUBLIC INTEREST; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-150 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO PREPARE A COMPREHENSIVE STATE ENERGY ASSESSMENT AND ACTION PLAN AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS PLAN; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-195 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE DOMINION ENERGY, THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY, DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, AND DUKE ENERGY PROGRESS TO EVALUATE CERTAIN ELECTRICAL GENERATION FACILITIES AND PROVIDE FOR CONSIDERATIONS RELATED TO THESE FACILITIES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-205 SO AS TO PERMIT THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY TO JOINTLY OWN ONE OR MORE NATURAL GAS-FIRED GENERATION FACILITIES AND RELATED TRANSMISSION FACILITIES WITH DOMINION ENERGY SOUTH CAROLINA IN COLLETON COUNTY, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR JOINT OWNERSHIP; BY ADDING SECTION 6-29-1220 SO AS TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM PLANS IF A COUNTY DOES NOT HAVE RELATED RURAL ZONING OR ORDINANCES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS REQUIRING MORE THAN THIRTEEN ACRES OF LAND; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 9 OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 13, RELATING TO THE GOVERNOR'S NUCLEAR ADVISORY COUNCIL, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE COUNCIL IN THE SC NEXUS FOR ADVANCED RESILIENT ENERGY AT THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS DUTIES AND MEMBERSHIP, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE COUNCIL'S DIRECTOR; BY ADDING ARTICLE 24 TO CHAPTER 27, TITLE 58 SO AS TO ALLOW ELECTRIC UTILITIES TO REQUEST THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION ADJUST THEIR RATES ANNUALLY, ADJUST UTILITY RATES, ESTABLISH THE BASELINE RATE ORDER AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ADJUSTMENTS IN RATES, TO PROVIDE PROTECTIONS FOR CUSTOMERS, AND TO AUTHORIZE ADDITIONAL POSITIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-196 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE CONSIDERATION OF DEPLOYMENT OF FUSION ENERGY AND ADVANCED NUCLEAR FACILITIES AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-70 SO AS TO PERMIT THE EVALUATION OF SMALL MODULAR NUCLEAR FACILITIES IN THIS STATE AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR STATE AGENCY REVIEW OF ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT APPLICATIONS, TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS, TO PROVIDE A SUNSET PROVISION, AND TO DESIGNATE ALL SECTIONS CURRENTLY IN CHAPTER 37 AS ARTICLE 1, ENTITLED "PLANNING FOR ENERGY SUPPLY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-40-10, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR," SO AS TO ESTABLISH CHARACTERISTICS FOR A "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-30, RELATING TO VOLUNTARY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "ENERGY STORAGE FACILITIES"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-20, RELATING TO THE REVIEW OF AND APPROVAL PROCEEDINGS FOR ELECTRICAL UTILITIES' AVOIDED COST METHODOLOGIES, STANDARD OFFERS, FORM CONTRACTS, AND COMMITMENT TO SELL FORMS, SO AS TO REITERATE THE SECTION; BY ADDING CHAPTER 42 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO ESTABLISH COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAM STANDARDS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ENERGY STORAGE, AND TO REQUIRE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO OPEN A DOCKET TO ESTABLISH A COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAM FOR ENERGY STORAGE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION "LIKE FACILITY" AND AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "MAJOR UTILITY FACILITY," SO AS TO REITERATE THE DEFINITION; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 3 OF CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58, RELATING TO CERTIFICATION OF MAJOR UTILITY FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A LIKE FACILITY, TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR PROPOSED FACILITIES, TO PROVIDE WHAT ACTIONS MAY BE TAKEN WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE COMMISSION, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-40, RELATING TO INTEGRATED RESOURCE PLANS, SO AS TO ADD CONSIDERATION OF A UTILITY'S TRANSMISSION REPORT, TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION BY THE COMMISSION, AND REQUIRE PARTIES TO BEAR THEIR OWN COSTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-260, RELATING TO COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN THE COMMISSION AND PARTIES, SO AS TO MODIFY REQUIREMENTS FOR ALLOWABLE EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS AND BRIEFINGS, AND TO PERMIT COMMISSION TOURS OF UTILITY PLANTS OR OTHER FACILITIES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-270, RELATING TO EX PARTE COMMUNICATION COMPLAINT PROCEEDINGS AT THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SO AS TO PERMIT AN ORDER TOLLING ANY DEADLINES ON A PROCEEDING SUBJECT TO A COMPLAINT IF TRUE TO THE EXTENT THE PROCEEDING WAS PREJUDICED SO THAT THE COMMISSION COULD NOT CONSIDER THE MATTER IMPARTIALLY; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-310, RELATING TO AN APPEAL FROM A FINAL ORDER OR DECISION OF THE COMMISSION ISSUED PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A TIMELINE FOR A PETITION FOR REHEARING OR RECONSIDERATION, AND TO REQUIRE A FINAL ORDER BE IMMEDIATELY APPEALABLE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-320, RELATING TO JUDICIAL JURISDICTION, SO AS TO REITERATE THE SECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-160 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO CONDUCT A STUDY TO EVALUATE VARIOUS THIRD-PARTY ADMINISTRATOR MODELS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD A REFERENCE TO "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM" AND PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR "COST-EFFECTIVE" AND "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PILOT PROGRAM"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-20, RELATING TO COMMISSION PROCEDURES ENCOURAGING ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO EXPAND COMMISSION CONSIDERATIONS FOR COST-EFFECTIVE, DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS, REQUIRE EACH INVESTOR-OWNED ELECTRICAL UTILITY TO SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMISSION REGARDING ITS DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS, AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO REVIEW THESE PORTFOLIOS ON AT LEAST A TRIENNIAL BASIS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-30, RELATING TO REPORTS ON DEMAND-SIDE ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-35 SO AS TO PERMIT PROGRAMS AND CUSTOMER INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE OR PROMOTE DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS FOR CUSTOMER-SITED DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES, AND TO PROVIDE CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-50, RELATING TO AGREEMENTS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN TERMS AND RATE RECOVERY FOR AGREEMENTS FOR FINANCING AND INSTALLING ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, AND FOR APPLICATION TO A RESIDENCE OCCUPIED BEFORE THE MEASURES ARE TAKEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-70, RELATING TO COMPENSATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION MEMBERS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH SALARIES IN AMOUNTS EQUAL TO NINETY PERCENT OF SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-41-50 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATION FOR CO-LOCATED RESOURCES BETWEEN AN ELECTRICAL UTILITY AND ITS CUSTOMER UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; TO ENCOURAGE DEVELOPMENT OF A DIVERSE MIX OF LONG-LEAD, CLEAN GENERATION RESOURCES, AND TO PERMIT THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO FIND CERTAIN ACTIONS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST TO PERMIT AN ELECTRICAL UTILITY TO CAPTURE AVAILABLE INCENTIVES FOR RATEPAYERS; TO PERMIT DEFERRAL OF CERTAIN REASONABLE AND PRUDENT COSTS FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-40-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCE"; BY ADDING CHAPTER 43 TO TITLE 58, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CONSIDERATIONS FOR ELECTRICITY RATE AND CONDITIONS FOR CERTAIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-135 SO AS TO TRANSFER A PENDING APPEAL REGARDING ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PERMITS TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-530, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE'S DUTIES, SO AS TO REQUIRE AN ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER ADVOCACY RELATED TO ITS REPRESENTATION OF CONSUMERS IN UTILITY MATTERS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-3-65 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION'S CHIEF CLERK'S SALARY BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-200 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO RETAIN AN INDEPENDENT CONSTRUCTION ANALYST FOR ANY CONSTRUCTION PROJECT BUDGET OF AT LEAST FIVE HUNDRED MILLION DOLLARS; TO REQUIRE A REPORT BY THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF REGARDING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ARTICLE 24, CHAPTER 27, TITLE 58; TO REQUIRE DOMINION ENERGY TO EVALUATE CONVERTING THE WATEREE GENERATION STATION TO BIOMASS-FIRED GENERATION, AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 58-4-50, RELATING TO OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF DUTIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Wednesday, May 7
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 176 (Word version):
S. 176 (Word version) -- Senator Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-30, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR USE OF PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS FOR CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS AND PUBLIC ACCOUNTS, SO AS TO APPLY THESE REQUIREMENTS TO USAGES IN ELECTRONIC FILES AND METADATA; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-35, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, SO AS TO REVISE THE EDUCATIONAL AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING THE UNIFORM CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT EXAM REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-40, RELATING TO ENTITIES REQUIRED TO REGISTER WITH THE BOARD TO PRACTICE AS CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRMS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SUCH REGISTRATION OF FIRMS THAT PERFORM COMPILATION SERVICES, AND TO PROVIDE OWNERSHIP OF SUCH FIRMS MAY BE HELD THROUGH A REVOCABLE GRANTOR TRUST; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-70, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO ADD REVIEW AND PROVIDE INPUT ON PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE CHANGES RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTING AS A POWER OF THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-80, RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS OF COMPLAINTS OR OTHER INFORMATION SUGGESTING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE INSPECTOR-INVESTIGATORS MUST HAVE BEEN LICENSED AS CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS FOR AT LEAST THE PREVIOUS FIVE YEARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-240, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS LICENSED IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS TO OBTAIN LICENSURE BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE RECIPROCITY LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-245, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS LICENSED IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS TO PRACTICE IN THIS STATE WITHOUT LICENSURE BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 40-2-20(18) RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, SECTION 40-2-35(H) RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, AND SECTION 40-2-35(I) RELATING TO RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received from the Senate:
Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it nonconcurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 127 (Word version):
S. 127 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Peeler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-11-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CATAWBA NATION WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF EMPLOYER; AND BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-43 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CATAWBA NATION IS ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION TO THE POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROCESS FOR ADMISSION.
Very respectfully,
President
On motion of Rep. FORREST, the House insisted upon its amendments.
Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. B. NEWTON, POPE and COBB-HUNTER to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C. Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Senators Campsen, Ott and Turner of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 3813 (Word version):
H. 3813 (Word version) -- Rep. Hixon: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-430, RELATING TO BEAR HUNTING, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO A REGISTERED PARTY DOG HUNT IN GAME ZONE 1.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, May 6
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 3813 (Word version):
H. 3813 (Word version) -- Rep. Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-430, RELATING TO BEAR HUNTING, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO A REGISTERED PARTY DOG HUNT IN GAME ZONE 1. - RATIFIED TITLE
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The following was received from the Senate:
Columbia, S.C., Wednesday, May 7
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it nonconcurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 4025 (Word version):
H. 4025 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2025, TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Very respectfully,
President
On motion of Rep. FORREST, the House insisted upon its amendments.
Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. HEWITT, BANNISTER and STAVRINAKIS to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., May 7
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 77 (Word version):
S. 77 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-85 SO AS TO PROMOTE PUBLIC ACCESS TO SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS BY REQUIRING SCHOOL BOARDS TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES THAT PROVIDE LIVESTREAM OR ALTERNATE ELECTRONIC MEANS TRANSMISSION OF SUCH MEETINGS, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION; AND TO REQUIRE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT MUST BE IMPLEMENTED BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2026. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., May 7
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 79 (Word version):
S. 79 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1115 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A FIVE-YEAR PILOT PROGRAM TO PERMIT PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO HIRE NONCERTIFIED TEACHERS IN A RATIO UP TO TEN PERCENT OF THE ENTIRE TEACHING STAFF OF THE DISTRICT, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED PARTICIPATION AND IMPLEMENTATION REQUIREMENTS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-90 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE AGENCY REQUESTS OF CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECKS. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., May 7
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 3430 (Word version):
H. 3430 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Murphy, Caskey, Mitchell, Pope, W. Newton, Bannister, Sessions, Jordan, Robbins, Collins, Martin, Lawson, Wickensimer, Landing, Long, Hiott, Forrest, Sanders, Teeple, Oremus, Hartz, Guest, Pedalino, M. M. Smith, Schuessler, Chapman, Gatch, McGinnis, Neese, Hardee, Ligon, Taylor, Willis, Vaughan, Brittain, Erickson, Bradley, Rankin, Hager, Whitmire, Gilliam, Crawford, Hewitt, Yow, Hixon, Ballentine, Gagnon and Brewer: A Bill TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-38-15, RELATING TO JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY AND THE APPORTIONMENT OF PERCENTAGES OF FAULT AND ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OR DRUG EXCEPTIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS, SO AS TO FURTHER MODIFY PROVISIONS RELATING TO JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY, TO REMOVE THE EXCEPTION TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE SECTION APPLYING TO THE USE, SALE, OR POSSESSION OF ALCOHOL, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE INCLUSION OF ADDITIONAL TORTFEASORS IN A CAUSE OF ACTION AND FOR THE TRIER OF FACT TO ALLOCATE FAULT TO ADDITIONAL TORTFEASORS, AND TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH ADDITIONAL NONDEFENDANT TORTFEASORS SHALL BE ADDED TO A VERDICT FORM AND CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THEY SHALL NOT BE ADDED; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-2220, RELATING TO ALCOHOL SALES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON FROM KNOWINGLY SELLING ALCOHOL TO AN INTOXICATED PERSON; BY ADDING CHAPTER 3 TO TITLE 61 SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING REQUIREMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-60, RELATING TO REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE REGULATIONS FOR THE ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-580, RELATING TO PROHIBITED ACTS BY HOLDERS OF PERMITS AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF BEER OR WINE, SO AS TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-4-523 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE SALE OF BEER AND WINE AT COLLEGIATE SPORTING EVENTS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY ADDING SECTION 38-73-550 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO MAKE CERTAIN REPORTS REGARDING LIQUOR LIABILITY COVERAGE IN THIS STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-20, RELATING TO LICENSING, REQUIRED INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION, FEES, AND RENEWAL, SO AS TO INCLUDE LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-145, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR LIQUOR LIABILITY RISK MITIGATION; AND BY ADDING SECTION 61-2-147 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TORTFEASORS CHARGED WITH CERTAIN DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OFFENSES SHALL APPEAR ON THE JURY VERDICT FORM UPON MOTION OF THE DEFENDANT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE IF A VERDICT IS RENDERED AGAINST BOTH A LICENSEE AND A DEFENDANT CHARGED WITH CERTAIN DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OFFENSES THAT THE LICENSEE IS JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY LIABLE FOR FIFTY PERCENT OF THE PLAINTIFF'S ACTUAL DAMAGES. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 221 (Word version):
S. 221 (Word version) -- Senator Ott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA KRATOM CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 20 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION OF THE SALE OF KRATOM PRODUCTS BY RETAILERS AND PROCESSORS AND TO CREATE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE ARTICLE. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to H. 3127 (Word version):
H. 3127 (Word version) -- Reps. Robbins, Wooten, Lawson, Pope, Chapman, Pedalino, W. Newton, Sanders, Duncan, Hixon, Taylor, Gagnon, Oremus, Hartz, Davis, M. M. Smith, Vaughan, Williams, Erickson, Bradley, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-750, RELATING TO FAILURE TO STOP MOTOR VEHICLES WHEN SIGNALED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES, SO AS TO REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR CERTAIN OFFENSES, TO CREATE AN ADDITIONAL FELONY OFFENSE WHEN A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER IS LED ON A HIGH-SPEED PURSUIT, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES. - RATIFIED TITLE
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for ratification.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was introduced:
H. 4525 (Word version) -- Rep. Reese: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RESCIND THE MAY 6, 2025, ADOPTION OF H. 4498 (Word version), A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO DECLARE ENERGY BURDEN A CRISIS IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO RECOGNIZE SEPTEMBER 24, 2025, AS "SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY JUSTICE DAY."
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced: H. 4526 (Word version) -- Reps. Cobb-Hunter, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO HONOR PAMELA D. SCOTT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND TO EXTEND TO HER THE BEST WISHES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AS SHE ENTERS A WELL-DESERVED RETIREMENT.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced:
H. 4527 (Word version) -- Reps. Garvin, Cobb-Hunter, Henderson-Myers, Williams, Rose, Spann-Wilder, Bauer, Weeks, Waters, Gilliard, Rivers, Hosey, Kirby, Dillard, Jones and Reese: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO AFFIRM THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT OF DUE PROCESS AND THE OBLIGATION OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT TO FOLLOW FEDERAL COURT ORDERS.
The Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
The following was introduced: H. 4528 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Weeks, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE WILSON HALL GIRLS TRACK TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM FOR WINNING THE 2025 SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION (SCISA) DIVISION I STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced:
H. 4529 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Weeks, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF FRANK LADSON OF SUMTER COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS LOVING FAMILY AND HIS MANY FRIENDS.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced: H. 4530 (Word version) -- Reps. McDaniel, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE SOUTH CAROLINA LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS YOUTH LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE TO USE THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR ITS ANNUAL STATE HOUSE MEETING ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025. HOWEVER, THE CHAMBER MAY NOT BE USED IF THE HOUSE IS IN SESSION OR THE CHAMBER IS OTHERWISE UNAVAILABLE.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, authorize the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus Youth Legislative Conference to use the chamber of the South Carolina House of Representatives for its annual State House meeting on Thursday, October 30, 2025. However, the chamber may not be used if the House is in session or the chamber is otherwise unavailable.
Be it further resolved that the State House security forces shall provide assistance and access as necessary for this meeting in accordance with previous procedures.
Be it further resolved that no charges may be made for the use of the House chamber by the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus Youth Legislative Conference on this date.
The following was introduced:
H. 4531 (Word version) -- Rep. Reese: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO DECLARE ENERGY BURDEN A CRISIS IN SOUTH CAROLINA, TO CALL FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION AND ACTION TO ADDRESS ENERGY AFFORDABILITY CHALLENGES, AND TO RECOGNIZE SEPTEMBER 24, 2025, AS "SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY JUSTICE DAY."
The Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
The following was introduced:
H. 4532 (Word version) -- Reps. Henderson-Myers, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND DR. JIMMY FLOWERS, FOUNDER OF FLOWERS MINISTRIES INC., FOR HIS PROFOUND IMPACT ON THE LIVES OF THE PEOPLE HE SERVES THROUGH HIS VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND LIFELONG DEDICATION TO THEIR SPIRITUAL AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING.
The following was introduced:
H. 4533 (Word version) -- Reps. Ballentine, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE CHAPIN HIGH SCHOOL DANCE TEAMS, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLES.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced: H. 4534 (Word version) -- Reps. Govan, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE AND HONOR THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL CONVENTION OF GOSPEL CHOIRS AND CHORUSES-ORANGEBURG UPON THE OCCASION OF THEIR FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced:
H. 4547 (Word version) -- Reps. Garvin, Rutherford, J. L. Johnson, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR KING GEORGE, A RISING FORCE IN BLUES MUSIC AND TO WELCOME HIM TO MYRTLE BEACH TO PERFORM IN LIVE CONCERT WITH MONEY TRAIN.
The following was introduced:
H. 4545 (Word version) -- Rep. Magnuson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO THE MATTERS WHICH MAY BE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AFTER MAY 8, 2025, PURSUANT TO THE SINE DIE RESOLUTION FOR THE 2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS PASSED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, H. 4262 (Word version) RELATING TO RESTRICTING, REGULATING, OR PROHIBITING MRNA GENE THERAPIES ALSO MAY BE INTRODUCED, RECEIVED, AND CONSIDERED BY EACH BODY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRIOR TO SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, CONCURRENCE, NONCONCURRENCE, AND APPOINTMENT OF CONFEREES; RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE REPORTS; AND RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF ANY VETOES, IF APPLICABLE.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That in addition to matters which may be considered by the General Assembly after May 8, 2025, pursuant to the Sine Die Resolution for the 2025 Legislative Session as passed by the General Assembly, the following matters may be introduced, received, and considered by each body of the General Assembly prior to Sine Die Adjournment including, but not limited to, concurrence, nonconcurrence, and appointment of conferees; receipt, consideration, and disposition of conference and free conference reports; and receipt, consideration, and disposition of any vetoes, if applicable:
(1) H. 4262 (Word version) relating to restricting, regulating, or prohibiting mRNA gene therapies.
Rep. BRITTAIN moved to commit the Concurrent Resolution to the Committee on Rules.
Rep. MAGNUSON demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Guffey Hager Hardee Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jordan King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Martin McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Burns Chumley Cromer Duncan Edgerton Frank Gilreath Haddon Harris Huff Kilmartin Magnuson May McCabe McCravy Morgan Pace Terribile White
So, the Concurrent Resolution was ordered committed to the Committee on Rules.
The following was introduced:
H. 4546 (Word version) -- Rep. Cromer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO THE MATTERS WHICH MAY BE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AFTER MAY 8, 2025, PURSUANT TO THE SINE DIE RESOLUTION FOR THE 2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS PASSED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, H. 4465 (Word version) RELATING TO THE "PRIVACY IN PUBLIC SPACES ACT" ALSO MAY BE INTRODUCED, RECEIVED, AND CONSIDERED BY EACH BODY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRIOR TO SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, CONCURRENCE, NONCONCURRENCE, AND APPOINTMENT OF CONFEREES; RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE REPORTS; AND RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF ANY VETOES, IF APPLICABLE.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That in addition to matters which may be considered by the General Assembly after May 8, 2025, pursuant to the Sine Die Resolution for the 2025 Legislative Session as passed by the General Assembly, the following matters may be introduced, received, and considered by each body of the General Assembly prior to Sine Die Adjournment including, but not limited to, concurrence, nonconcurrence, and appointment of conferees; receipt, consideration, and disposition of conference and free conference reports; and receipt, consideration, and disposition of any vetoes, if applicable:
(1) H. 4465 (Word version) relating to the "Privacy in Public Spaces Act". Rep. BRITTAIN moved to commit the Concurrent Resolution to the Committee on Rules.
Rep. MAGNUSON demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hardee Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Hosey J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jordan King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Martin McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Beach Burns Chumley Cromer Duncan Edgerton Frank Gilreath Harris Huff Kilmartin Magnuson May McCabe McCravy Morgan Oremus Pace Terribile White
So, the Concurrent Resolution was committed to the Committee on Rules.
The following was introduced:
H. 4548 (Word version) -- Rep. Pace: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO THE MATTERS WHICH MAY BE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AFTER MAY 8, 2025, PURSUANT TO THE SINE DIE RESOLUTION FOR THE 2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS PASSED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BILLS RELATING TO IMMIGRATION ALSO MAY BE INTRODUCED, RECEIVED, AND CONSIDERED BY EACH BODY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRIOR TO SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, CONCURRENCE, NONCONCURRENCE, AND APPOINTMENT OF CONFEREES; RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE REPORTS; AND RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF ANY VETOES, IF APPLICABLE.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring: That in addition to matters which may be considered by the General Assembly after May 8, 2025, pursuant to the Sine Die Resolution for the 2025 Legislative Session as passed by the General Assembly, the following matters may be introduced, received, and considered by each body of the General Assembly prior to Sine Die Adjournment including, but not limited to, concurrence, nonconcurrence, and appointment of conferees; receipt, consideration, and disposition of conference and free conference reports; and receipt, consideration, and disposition of any vetoes, if applicable:
(1) Bills relating to immigration.
Rep. BRITTAIN moved to commit the Concurrent Resolution to the Committee on Rules.
Rep. MAGNUSON demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Guffey Hager Hardee Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jordan King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Martin McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Teeple Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Burns Chumley Cromer Duncan Edgerton Frank Gilreath Haddon Harris Huff Kilmartin Magnuson May McCabe Morgan Oremus Pace Terribile White
So, the Concurrent Resolution was committed to the Committee on Rules.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. GATCH a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.
The following was introduced: H. 4549 (Word version) -- Rep. Pace: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO THE MATTERS WHICH MAY BE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AFTER MAY 8, 2025, PURSUANT TO THE SINE DIE RESOLUTION FOR THE 2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS PASSED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BILLS RELATING TO PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS OF PREBORN PEOPLE ALSO MAY BE INTRODUCED, RECEIVED, AND CONSIDERED BY EACH BODY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRIOR TO SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, CONCURRENCE, NONCONCURRENCE, AND APPOINTMENT OF CONFEREES; RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE REPORTS; AND RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF ANY VETOES, IF APPLICABLE.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That in addition to matters which may be considered by the General Assembly after May 8, 2025, pursuant to the Sine Die Resolution for the 2025 Legislative Session as passed by the General Assembly, the following matters may be introduced, received, and considered by each body of the General Assembly prior to Sine Die Adjournment including, but not limited to, concurrence, nonconcurrence, and appointment of conferees; receipt, consideration, and disposition of conference and free conference reports; and receipt, consideration, and disposition of any vetoes, if applicable:
(1) Bills relating to protection of human rights of preborn people.
Rep. BRITTAIN moved to commit the Concurrent Resolution to the Committee on Rules.
Rep. MAGNUSON demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Bustos Calhoon Caskey Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Guffey Hager Hardee Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan King Kirby Landing Ligon Luck Martin McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Burns Chumley Cromer Duncan Edgerton Frank Gibson Gilliam Gilreath Harris Huff Kilmartin Magnuson May McCabe McCravy Morgan Oremus Pace Terribile White
So, the Concurrent Resolution was committed to the Committee on Rules.
The following was introduced: H. 4550 (Word version) -- Rep. Pace: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO THE MATTERS WHICH MAY BE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AFTER MAY 8, 2025, PURSUANT TO THE SINE DIE RESOLUTION FOR THE 2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS PASSED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BILLS RELATING TO CLOSED PARTISAN PRIMARIES ALSO MAY BE INTRODUCED, RECEIVED, AND CONSIDERED BY EACH BODY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRIOR TO SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, CONCURRENCE, NONCONCURRENCE, AND APPOINTMENT OF CONFEREES; RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE REPORTS; AND RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF ANY VETOES, IF APPLICABLE.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That in addition to matters which may be considered by the General Assembly after May 8, 2025, pursuant to the Sine Die Resolution for the 2025 Legislative Session as passed by the General Assembly, the following matters may be introduced, received, and considered by each body of the General Assembly prior to Sine Die Adjournment including, but not limited to, concurrence, nonconcurrence, and appointment of conferees; receipt, consideration, and disposition of conference and free conference reports; and receipt, consideration, and disposition of any vetoes, if applicable:
(1) Bills relating to closed partisan primaries.
Rep. BRITTAIN moved to commit the Concurrent Resolution to the Committee on Rules.
Rep. MAGNUSON demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Bustos Calhoon Caskey Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gilliam Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Guffey Hager Hardee Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan King Kirby Ligon Luck Martin McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Williams Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Burns Chumley Cromer Duncan Edgerton Frank Gibson Gilreath Haddon Harris Huff Kilmartin Landing Magnuson May McCabe McCravy Morgan Oremus Pace Teeple Terribile White Willis
So, the Concurrent Resolution was committed to the Committee on Rules.
The following was introduced:
H. 4551 (Word version) -- Reps. Cromer and Magnuson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO THE MATTERS WHICH MAY BE CONSIDERED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AFTER MAY 8, 2025, PURSUANT TO THE SINE DIE RESOLUTION FOR THE 2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS PASSED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, LEGISLATION RELATING TO PARENTAL RIGHTS ALSO MAY BE INTRODUCED, RECEIVED, AND CONSIDERED BY EACH BODY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRIOR TO SINE DIE ADJOURNMENT INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, CONCURRENCE, NONCONCURRENCE, AND APPOINTMENT OF CONFEREES; RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE REPORTS; AND RECEIPT, CONSIDERATION, AND DISPOSITION OF ANY VETOES, IF APPLICABLE.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
That in addition to matters which may be considered by the General Assembly after May 8, 2025, pursuant to the Sine Die Resolution for the 2025 Legislative Session as passed by the General Assembly, the following matters may be introduced, received, and considered by each body of the General Assembly prior to Sine Die Adjournment including, but not limited to, concurrence, nonconcurrence, and appointment of conferees; receipt, consideration, and disposition of conference and free conference reports; and receipt, consideration, and disposition of any vetoes, if applicable:
(1) Parental rights.
Rep. BRITTAIN moved to commit the Concurrent Resolution to the Committee on Rules.
Rep. MAGNUSON demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gilliam Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Guffey Hager Hardee Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan King Kirby Lawson Ligon Long Luck Martin McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Burns Chumley Cromer Edgerton Frank Gibson Gilreath Harris Huff Kilmartin Magnuson May McCabe McCravy Morgan Oremus Pace Terribile White
So, the Concurrent Resolution was committed to the Committee on Rules
The Senate sent to the House the following:
S. 655 (Word version) -- Senator Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME GAPWAY DRAINAGE BRIDGE ON US 76 IN HORRY COUNTY "ZACHARY KYLE STRICKLAND BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
The Concurrent Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.
The following Bills were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:
H. 4535 (Word version) -- Reps. Crawford and Guest: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-535, RELATING TO LIMITATION ON PLACES OF RESIDENCE OF CERTAIN SEX OFFENDERS, EXCEPTIONS, VIOLATIONS, LOCAL GOVERNMENT ORDINANCES, AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS REQUIRED TO PROVIDE CERTAIN INFORMATION, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "CHILDREN'S RECREATIONAL FACILITY," TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL OFFENSES THAT PRECLUDE SEX OFFENDERS FROM RESIDING NEAR SCHOOLS, DAYCARE CENTERS, OR RECREATIONAL FACILITIES, AND TO PROVIDE SLED MUST NOTIFY ALL REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS OF THE PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THIS ACT.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4536 (Word version) -- Reps. Oremus, Cromer, Gilreath, Pace, Frank, Edgerton, Beach, Burns, White, Kilmartin, McCravy, Pedalino, Lawson, Morgan, Long, Chumley, Haddon, Gilliam, Rankin, Vaughan, McCabe, Crawford, Duncan and Willis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "LIABILITY FOR INJURIES CAUSED BY ABORTION-INDUCING DRUGS ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 41, TITLE 44 SO AS TO IMPOSE LIABILITY ON ANY PERSON WHO MANUFACTURES, MAILS, DISTRIBUTES, TRANSPORTS, DELIVERS, OR PROVIDES ABORTION-INDUCING DRUGS, OR WHO AIDS OR ABETS THE MANUFACTURE, MAILING, DISTRIBUTION, TRANSPORTATION, DELIVERY, OR PROVISION OF ABORTION-INDUCING DRUGS FOR CERTAIN DAMAGES, WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO DEFINE TERMS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4537 (Word version) -- Rep. Taylor: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-101-620, RELATING TO EDUCATIONAL FEE WAIVERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT HIGHER INSTITUTIONS MAY OFFER UP TO AN ADDITIONAL FOUR PERCENT OF EDUCATIONAL FEE WAIVERS LIMITED EXCLUSIVELY TO THE BENEFIT OF UNDERGRADUATE IN-STATE STUDENTS.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
H. 4538 (Word version) -- Reps. Oremus and Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PROTECTIONS FROM ABORTION-INDUCING DRUGS ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 8 TO CHAPTER 41, TITLE 44 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE MANUFACTURING, POSSESSION, DISTRIBUTION, MAILING, TRANSPORTING, DELIVERING, OR PROVIDING OF ABORTION-INDUCING DRUGS IN THIS STATE OR ENGAGING IN CONDUCT THAT WOULD MAKE A PERSON AN ACCOMPLICE TO THE PROHIBITED CONDUCT, WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO DEFINE TERMS; TO AUTHORIZE QUI TAM ACTIONS FOR VIOLATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE ARTICLE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4539 (Word version) -- Reps. McGinnis, Holman and Hiott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-150, RELATING TO BURNING LANDS OF ANOTHER WITHOUT CONSENT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-170, RELATING TO WILFULLY BURNING LANDS OF ANOTHER, SO AS TO INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-180, RELATING TO NEGLIGENTLY ALLOWING FIRE TO SPREAD TO LANDS OR PROPERTY OF ANOTHER, SO AS TO INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 48-35-55, RELATING TO FIRE REGULATION EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO SUSPEND THE EXEMPTIONS WHEN THE GOVERNOR HAS DECLARED AN EMERGENCY IN CONNECTION WITH FOREST FIRES OR THE STATE FORESTER DECLARES A PROHIBITION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 48-35-60, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR FIRES ON CERTAIN LANDS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF CHAPTER 35, TITLE 48.
Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs
H. 4540 (Word version) -- Reps. Guest and Crawford: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-3-530, 63-15-210, 63-15-220, AND 63-15-230, RELATING TO CHILD CUSTODY AND PARENTING TIME, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT ONLY SOLE CUSTODY OR JOINT CUSTODY MAY BE AWARDED BY THE FAMILY COURT, THERE IS NO PRESUMPTION FOR OR AGAINST EITHER TYPE OF CUSTODY, AND EVERY CHILD CUSTODY ORDER MUST ADDRESS PARENTING TIME; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4541 (Word version) -- Reps. Burns and Hiott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-9-780, RELATING IN PART TO MUTUAL CONSENT REGISTRIES, SO AS TO CREATE AN EXCEPTION FOR THE RELEASE OF THE IDENTITY OF THE BIOLOGICAL PARENT AND OTHER ADOPTION-RELATED INFORMATION TO AN ADULT ADOPTEE IF THE BIOLOGICAL PARENT IS DECEASED.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4542 (Word version) -- Rep. Bailey: A BILL TO REPEAL ACT 21 OF 1959, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE HORRY COUNTY POLICE COMMISSION.
Referred to Horry Delegation
H. 4543 (Word version) -- Reps. Caskey, Bauer, Collins and Hartnett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-65 SO AS TO ALLOW THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION OR COUNTY BOARDS OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS, AS APPROPRIATE, TO EXTEND VOTING HOURS AT POLLING LOCATIONS THAT EXPERIENCE DELAYS IN OPENING OR INTERRUPTIONS IN VOTING.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4544 (Word version) -- Reps. Jordan and W. Newton: 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.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
S. 369 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-10, RELATING TO STATE COMMODITY CODE DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE STATE COMMODITY CODE BE THE SOUTH CAROLINA ATTORNEY GENERAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-40, RELATING TO TRANSACTIONS WHERE PROHIBITION IS NOT APPLICABLE, SO AS TO ADD AN AGENT OR INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE AS INDIVIDUALS SUBJECT TO AN ORDER TO DENY, SUSPEND, OR REVOKE A PERSON'S LICENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-60, RELATING TO PROHIBITED ACTS, SO AS TO REPLACE SECTION 39-73-310 WITH SECTION 39-73-30; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-80, RELATING TO STATE SECURITIES LAWS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-315, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATOR ACTIONS TO PREVENT VIOLATIONS OR IMMINENT VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR CAN ISSUE AN ORDER RELATED TO ANY ACTION THAT MAY VIOLATE THIS CHAPTER; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-320, RELATING TO LEGAL, EQUITABLE, AND SPECIAL REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO A COURT FOR ENFORCEMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY MAINTAIN AN ACTION IN THE RICHLAND COUNTY COURT OF COMMON PLEAS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-325, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY REFER VIOLATIONS TO THE APPROPRIATE DIVISION OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE OR OTHER AUTHORITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-330, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS CHAPTER, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-340, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, FORMS, AND ORDERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-350, RELATING TO THE APPLICABILITY OF SECTIONS 39-73-20, 39-73-50, AND 39-73-60 TO PERSONS WHO SELL, BUY, OR OFFER TO SELL OR BUY COMMODITIES IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR APPLICABLE RADIO AND TELEVISION COMMUNICATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-360, RELATING TO JUDICIAL REVIEW, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-370, RELATING TO DEFENSE IN A CASE BASED ON FAILURE TO MAKE PHYSICAL DELIVERY, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-375 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL MAY RETAIN FUNDS FROM FINES AND PENALTIES TO OFFSET RELEVANT EXPENSES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-400 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY OF THIS CHAPTER; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 39-73-355 RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry
S. 383 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Goldfinch, Graham, Zell and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PROTHONOTARY WARBLER RECOGNITION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-613 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE PROTHONOTARY WARBLER (PROTONOTARIA CITREA) AS THE OFFICIAL STATE MIGRATORY BIRD OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs
S. 399 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott, Hembree, Reichenbach and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-635 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO, WITHOUT LEGAL CAUSE OR GOOD EXCUSE, ENTERS A TRANSPORTATION FACILITY, INCLUDING ANY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AND ANY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM, AFTER HAVING BEEN WARNED NOT TO DO SO BY THE TRANSIT DIRECTOR OR HIS DESIGNEE, IS GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR TRIABLE IN A MUNICIPAL OR MAGISTRATES COURT, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR A WRITTEN WARNING AND FOR APPEALING THE WARNING, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION MUST BE CONSTRUED AS IN ADDITION TO, AND NOT AS SUPERSEDING, ANOTHER STATUTE RELATING TO TRESPASS OR UNLAWFUL ENTRY ON LANDS OF ANOTHER.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
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.
Referred to Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs
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.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
S. 526 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 48-39-280, RELATING TO BEACH PRESERVATION APPEALS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES, SO AS TO STAY ANY ENFORCEMENT ACTION DURING THE PENDENCY OF THE APPEAL AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE AGENCY WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS TO THE APPELLANT IF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE REVERSES THE DECISION OF THE AGENCY.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
S. 585 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder, Adams, Devine, Zell and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SAFEGUARDING AMERICAN FAMILIES EVERYWHERE (SAFE) ACT" AND BY ADDING SECTION 56-3-125 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPLICATIONS FOR MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS MUST INCLUDE LANGUAGE ALLOWING APPLICANTS TO VOLUNTARILY INDICATE THEY OR THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CERTAIN DISABILITIES OR DISORDERS, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO INCLUDE THE DESIGNATION "SAFE" IN THE MOTOR VEHICLE'S RECORDS.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
The roll call of the House of Representatives was taken resulting as follows:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hardee Harris Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
The SPEAKER granted Rep. MURPHY a leave of absence for the day.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. B. J. COX a leave of absence for the day due to a prior commitment.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. YOW a temporary leave of absence.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. GUFFEY a temporary leave of absence.
Announcement was made that Dr. Jennifer Hanke of Oconee County was the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.
In accordance with House Rule 5.2 below:
"5.2 Every bill before presentation shall have its title endorsed; every report, its title at length; every petition, memorial, or other paper, its prayer or substance; and, in every instance, the name of the member presenting any paper shall be endorsed and the papers shall be presented by the member to the Speaker at the desk. A member may add his name to a bill or resolution or a co-sponsor of a bill or resolution may remove his name at any time prior to the bill or resolution receiving passage on second reading. The member or co-sponsor shall notify the Clerk of the House in writing of his desire to have his name added or removed from the bill or resolution. The Clerk of the House shall print the member's or co-sponsor's written notification in the House Journal. The removal or addition of a name does not apply to a bill or resolution sponsored by a committee."
Bill Number: H. 3437 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
05/08/25 DUNCAN
Bill Number: H. 4513 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
05/08/25 LIGON
Bill Number: H. 4543 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
05/08/25 BAUER, COLLINS and HARTNETT
Bill Number: H. 4176 (Word version)
Date: REMOVE:
05/08/25 W. NEWTON and HERBKERSMAN
The following was received:
Statewide Appointment
The Committee respectfully reports that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommends that the same do pass.
STATEWIDE REAPPOINTMENT
State Ethics Commission
Term Commencing: April 1, 2025
Term Expiring: April 1, 2030
Type: Initial Appointment
Seat: Governor's Appointee
Vice: Brandolyn T. Pinkston
Ms. Helen F. Munnerlyn
Post Office Box 23205
Columbia, South Carolina 29224
Jay Jordan
Chairman of the House Ethics Committee
Rep. JORDAN submitted a favorable report on the Ethics Commission appointment.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Burns Bustos Calhoon Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Forrest Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Haddon Hager Hardee Harris Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff Jones Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Martin McCabe McGinnis Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton Oremus Pedalino Rankin Reese Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions M. M. Smith Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
The appointment was confirmed and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Bruce Bannister
District 24
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Thomas C. Brittain Jr.
District 107
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Micah Caskey
District 89
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Gil Gatch
District 94
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. RJ May III
District 88
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. John R. McCravy III
District 13
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Christopher R. Hart
District 73
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jeffrey Johnson
District 58
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jason Luck
District 54
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Weston Newton
District 120
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Thomas E. Pope
District 47
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Seth Rose
District 72
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. J. Todd Rutherford
District 74
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. G. Murrell Smith Jr.
District 67
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Tiffany Spann-Wilder
District 109
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Helen F. Munnerlyn, Governor's Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Spencer Wetmore
District 115
The following was received:
Statewide Appointment
The Committee respectfully reports that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommends that the same do pass.
STATE ETHICS COMMISSION
Term Commencing: April 1, 2025
Term Expiring: April 1, 2030
Seat: Senate - Majority
Vice: Scott E. Frick
Ms. Sara Parrish
165 Etiwan Pointe Drive
Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina 29492
Jay Jordan
Chairman of the House Ethics Committee
Rep. JORDAN submitted a favorable report on the Ethics Commission appointment.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Bailey Ballentine Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Bustos Calhoon Chapman Clyburn Collins B. L. Cox Davis Duncan Forrest Gagnon Gilliam Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Haddon Hager Hardee Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Jones King Kirby Landing Ligon Long Martin McGinnis Montgomery T. Moore Neese B. Newton Pedalino Reese Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions M. M. Smith Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Vaughan Waters Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Cromer Edgerton Gilreath Harris Huff Kilmartin Magnuson Morgan Terribile White
The appointment was confirmed and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Bruce Bannister
District 24
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Thomas C. Brittain Jr.
District 107
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Micah Caskey
District 89
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Gil Gatch
District 94
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. RJ May III
District 88
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. John R. McCravy III
District 13
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Christopher R. Hart
District 73
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jeffrey Johnson
District 58
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jason Luck
District 54
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Weston Newton
District 120
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Thomas E. Pope
District 47
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Seth Rose
District 72
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. J. Todd Rutherford
District 74
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. G. Murrell Smith Jr.
District 67
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid,
I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Tiffany Spann-Wilder
District 109
May 8, 2025
Charles Reid
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Reid, I am notifying you in accordance with SC Code Sections 8-13-700 and/or 8-13-745(A) that I hereby recuse myself from voting on the following appointments to the State Ethics Commission because a potential conflict of interest due to an economic interest of myself, or an individual or business with which I am associated may be affected:
Sara Parrish, Senate Majority Party Appointment
Please note this in the House Journal for May 8, 2025.
Sincerely,
Rep. Spencer Wetmore
District 115
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration: S. 29 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Cromer, Verdin and Kennedy: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-375, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO THE DISSEMINATION OF HARMFUL MATERIAL TO MINORS, SO AS TO DEFINE IDENTIFIABLE MINOR AND MORPHED IMAGE AS AN OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN AS AN OFFENS; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Rep. T. MOORE explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Those who voted in the negative are:
Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Bustos Calhoon Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Haddon Hager Hardee Harris Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff Jones Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
The House refused to agree to the Senate Amendments and a message was ordered sent accordingly.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:
(R62) H. 3563 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, B. J. Cox, Spann-Wilder, McCravy, Taylor, Chapman, Kirby, Cromer, Gilreath, Weeks, Williams, Holman and Govan: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-50, RELATING TO COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECRETARY SHALL EVALUATE EACH COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICE NO MORE THAN TWICE PER YEAR. - RATIFIED TITLE
Rep. DAVIS explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Burns Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Haddon Hager Hardee Harris Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
I was temporarily out of the Chamber on constituent business during the vote on H. 3563 (Word version). If I had been present, I would have voted to concur in the Senate Amendments.
Rep. Heath Sessions
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:
H. 4003 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughan, Willis, Burns, B. J. Cox and Bannister: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 1543 OF 1968, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE GREATER GREENVILLE SANITATION DISTRICT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION SHALL NOT PROVIDE REFUSE, GARBAGE, OR TRASH COLLECTING SERVICES OUTSIDE OF THE GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT AFTER JUNE 30, 2026, TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR SUCH SERVICES PROVIDED PURSUANT TO CERTAIN EXISTING INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENTS, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION MAY DEVELOP CERTAIN PROPERTY SUBJECT TO CERTAIN USE RESTRICTIONS, AND TO REVISE THE ANNEXATION AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSION SO AS TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF FREEHOLDERS REQUIRED FOR A PETITION TO REQUEST SUCH ANNEXATIONS. - RATIFIED TITLE
Rep. BANNISTER explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Brewer Brittain Burns Bustos Calhoon Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Haddon Hager Hardee Harris Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff J. E. Johnson Jones Jordan King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration: H. 3571 (Word version) -- Reps. Hiott, Guffey, J. L. Johnson, Pedalino, Neese and B. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD DEFINITIONS FOR "LARGE PROJECT," "NOTICE," "PRE-MARKING," "PRIVATE FACILITY," "PROJECT INITIATOR," AND "SOFT DIGGING" AND TO AMEND THE DEFINITIONS OF "EXCAVATE," "EXCAVATOR," AND "OPERATOR"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-50, RELATING TO THE OPERATORS ASSOCIATION NOTIFICATION CENTER, SO AS TO CLARIFY OPERATOR PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO BE A MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATION, THE NOTIFICATION CENTER'S DUTIES, AND OTHER CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-60, RELATING TO THE NOTICE OF INTENT TO EXCAVATE OR DEMOLISH, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL TIME FOR NOTICE FOR CERTAIN EXCAVATIONS OR DEMOLITIONS AND OTHER CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-70, RELATING TO INFORMATION SUPPLIED BY OPERATORS, SO AS TO REQUIRE QUARTERLY REPORTS OF DAMAGE CAUSED BY AN EXCAVATION OR DEMOLITION AND TO CLARIFY PAYMENT OF A CIVIL PENALTY IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-80, RELATING TO EMERGENCY EXCAVATIONS OR DEMOLITIONS EXEMPT FROM NOTICE REQUIREMENTS AND LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES, SO AS ESTABLISH ADDITIONAL NOTIFICATION AND RESPONSE REQUIREMENTS IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY AND TO MAKE A FALSE CLAIM OF AN EMERGENCY A VIOLATION OF THIS CHAPTER; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-90, RELATING TO NOTICE OF DAMAGES, SO AS TO REQUIRE AN EXCAVATOR TO IMMEDIATELY REPORT ANY KNOWN DAMAGE TO THE NOTIFICATION CENTER AND FACILITY OPERATOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-100, RELATING TO DESIGN REQUESTS AND OPERATOR RESPONSE, SO AS TO ADD A REFERENCE TO LARGE PROJECTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-110, RELATING TO EXEMPTION FROM NOTICE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO STRIKE CURRENT PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-36-120, RELATING TO PENALTIES AND CIVIL REMEDIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A COMPLAINT PROCESS THROUGH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE AND TO PROVIDE FOR PENALTIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 58-36-75, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCESS FOR LARGE PROJECTS.
Rep. KIRBY explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Gatch Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Haddon Hager Hardee Harris Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff J. E. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The following Bill was taken up:
H. 4165 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, M. M. Smith, B. L. Cox, Hartnett, Holman and Sessions: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 20 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 SO AS TO TITLE THE ARTICLE "NON-OPIOID TREATMENTS FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT," TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION OF AN EDUCATIONAL PAMPHLET BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH REGARDING NON-OPIOID ALTERNATIVES FOR THE TREATMENT OF PAIN, AND TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR PRACTITIONERS OFFERING NON-OPIOID TREATMENT.
Rep. DAVIS moved to adjourn debate on the Bill until Tuesday, January 13, which was agreed to.
The following Bill was taken up, read the third time, and ordered returned to the Senate with amendments:
S. 623 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A BILL TO EXEMPT GEORGETOWN COUNTY FROM CERTAIN BUILDING REQUIREMENTS AND TO ALLOW THE COUNTY TO INSTEAD ENFORCE AE STANDARDS IN GEORGETOWN COUNTY'S FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION ORDINANCE.
The following Bills were taken up, read the third time, and ordered sent to the Senate:
H. 3858 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, Pedalino, Lowe, Mitchell, M. M. Smith, B. J. Cox, Chapman, Davis, Sessions, Erickson, Guffey, B. L. Cox, Hewitt, Teeple, Hartnett, Pope, Rutherford, Brittain, Wooten, Guest, Hager, J. L. Johnson, B. Newton, Bailey, Bustos, Gagnon, Gilliam, Herbkersman, Holman, Jordan, Lawson, Martin, Murphy, Robbins, Ballentine, T. Moore, Montgomery, Sanders, Atkinson, Ligon, Gibson, J. Moore, Caskey, Moss, Huff, Beach, Terribile, Kilmartin, Hardee, Taylor, Yow, J. E. Johnson, Landing, Frank, Forrest, Oremus, Kirby, Hixon, Cromer and Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ARTICLE 1 OF CHAPTER 23, TITLE 50, SECTION 50-23-345, AND SECTION 50-23-375, ALL RELATING TO THE TITLING OF WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTORS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT OUTBOARD MOTORS BE TITLED; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3210, RELATING TO TAX NOTICES FOR BOATS AND BOAT MOTORS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3210, RELATING TO TAX NOTICES FOR BOATS, BOAT MOTORS, AND WATERCRAFT, SO AS TO ALLOW THE AUDITOR TO CONSOLIDATE THE TAX NOTICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-23-370, RELATING TO WATERCRAFT CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR FIFTY PERCENT OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF WATERCRAFT. H. 4129 (Word version) -- Reps. Brewer, Guffey, M. M. Smith, Hartnett, Teeple, B. L. Cox, Sessions, Mitchell, Stavrinakis, Pedalino, Brittain, Hayes, Guest, Luck, Atkinson, Bamberg and Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-19-5 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO PAYS A FEE TO PLAY A GAME IN WHICH SKILL PREDOMINATES OVER CHANCE AND RECEIVES A PRIZE PROPORTIONATE TO HOW SKILLFULLY HE PLAYED IS NOT GAMBLING.
H. 3802 (Word version) -- Reps. Bustos, Hartnett, Landing, Teeple, Edgerton, Magnuson, J. L. Johnson, Bamberg, Sanders, Bowers, Pope, Long and Frank: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-100, RELATING TO PARTICIPATION IN INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES OF PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS BY HOME SCHOOL, CHARTER SCHOOL, AND GOVERNOR'S SCHOOL STUDENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE PARTICIPATION IN COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, AND CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION, TO PROVIDE EQUAL TREATMENT FOR SUCH STUDENTS AND STUDENTS ENROLLED IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
The following Bills were read the third time, passed and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title of each be changed to that of an Act, and that they be enrolled for ratification:
S. 507 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander and Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-40, RELATING TO APPLICATION OF FEDERAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE TO STATE TAX LAWS, SO AS TO UPDATE THE REFERENCE TO THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE TO THE YEAR 2024 AND TO PROVIDE THAT IF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE SECTIONS ADOPTED BY THIS STATE ARE EXTENDED, THEN THESE SECTIONS ALSO ARE EXTENDED FOR SOUTH CAROLINA INCOME TAX PURPOSES. S. 214 (Word version) -- Senators Massey and Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-31-10, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE COMMISSION FOR MINORITY AFFAIRS, ITS COMPOSITION, AND THE REQUIREMENT THAT A MAJORITY OF THE COMMISSION BE AFRICAN AMERICAN, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A MAJORITY OF THE COMMISSION MUST BE AFRICAN AMERICAN.
Rep. BAUER asked unanimous consent to recall S. 534 (Word version) from the Committee on Ways and Means.
Rep. MAGNUSON objected.
Rep. BAUER asked unanimous consent to recall H. 3762 (Word version) from the Committee on Judiciary.
Rep. MAGNUSON objected.
The following Bill was taken up:
H. 3832 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Herbkersman, Dillard, Kirby and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-62-50, RELATING TO THE TAX REBATE FOR CERTAIN MOTION PICTURE PRODUCTION COMPANIES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ANNUAL LIMIT, AND BY ALLOWING THE USE OF REBATES FOR CERTAIN EXPENDITURES AND EXPENSES; BY REPEALING SECTION 12-62-60 RELATING TO DISTRIBUTION OF ADMISSIONS TAXES FOR REBATES TO MOTION PICTURE PRODUCTION COMPANIES AND CERTAIN DEPARTMENTAL EXPENSES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3830 SO AS TO PROVIDE A TAX CREDIT FOR AN ACCREDITED THEATER PRODUCTION.
Rep. CASKEY moved to adjourn debate on the Bill until Tuesday, January 13, which was agreed to.
The following Bill was taken up: H. 4189 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis and Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 1-3-240, 1-5-40, 1-11-20, 1-23-600, 1-25-60, 2-13-240, 3-5-40, 3-5-50, 3-5-60, 3-5-70, 3-5-80, 3-5-90, 3-5-100, 3-5-110, 3-5-120, 3-5-130, 3-5-140, 3-5-150, 3-5-160, 3-5-170, 3-5-180, 3-5-190, 3-5-320, 3-5-330, 3-5-340, 3-5-350, 3-5-360, 4-12-30, 4-29-67, 4-33-10, 4-33-20, 4-33-30, 5-31-2010, 6-1-150, 6-11-285, 6-11-290, 6-11-1210, 6-11-1230, 6-11-1430, 6-15-30, 6-19-30, 6-19-35, 6-19-40, 6-21-400, 7-5-186, 7-5-310, 10-5-270, 10-9-10, 10-9-20, 10-9-30, 10-9-35, 10-9-40, 10-9-110, 10-9-200, 10-9-260, 10-9-320, 11-11-170, 11-11-230, 11-37-200, 11-58-70, 11-58-80, 12-6-3370, 12-6-3420, 12-6-3550, 12-6-3775, 12-23-810, 12-23-815, 12-28-2355, 12-37-220, 12-44-30, 13-1-380, 13-2-10, 13-7-10, 13-7-20, 13-7-30, 13-7-40, 13-7-45, 13-7-60, 13-7-70, 13-7-90, 13-7-120, 13-7-160, 14-1-201, 14-7-1610, 14-7-1630, 14-23-1150, 15-74-40, 16-3-740, 16-3-2050, 16-17-500, 16-17-650, 16-25-320, 20-1-240, 20-1-320, 20-1-330, 20-1-340, 20-1-350, 20-1-720, 20-3-230, 20-3-235, 23-1-230, 23-3-535, 23-3-810, 25-11-70, 25-11-75, 27-16-90, 27-31-100, 30-2-30, 30-2-320, 31-13-30, 32-8-305, 33-36-1315, 37-11-20, 37-11-50, 38-7-20, 38-55-530, 38-70-60, 38-71-46, 38-71-145, 38-71-1520, 38-78-10, 39-23-20, 39-23-30, 39-23-40, 39-23-50, 39-23-60, 39-23-70, 39-23-100, 39-23-110, 39-23-120, 39-23-130, 40-7-60, 40-7-230, 40-10-230, 40-13-60, 40-13-110, 40-15-85, 40-15-102, 40-15-110, 40-23-10, 40-23-20, 40-23-110, 40-23-280, 40-23-300, 40-23-305, 40-23-310, 40-25-20, 40-25-170, 40-33-20, 40-33-30, 40-35-10, 40-35-20, 40-43-72, 40-43-83, 40-43-86, 40-43-87, 40-43-190, 40-43-195, 40-43-200, 40-45-300, 40-47-31, 40-47-32, 40-47-34, 40-61-20, 40-69-255, 40-71-10, 40-71-20, 40-81-20, 40-84-120, 41-27-280, 43-5-24, 43-5-910, 43-5-1185, 43-21-120, 43-21-130, 43-25-30, 43-33-350, 43-35-10, 43-35-15, 43-35-25, 43-35-35, 43-35-220, 43-35-310, 43-35-520, 43-35-560, 44-1-60, 44-1-70, 44-1-80, 44-1-90, 44-1-100, 44-1-110, 44-1-130, 44-1-140, 44-1-151, 44-1-152, 44-1-165, 44-1-170, 44-1-180, 44-1-190, 44-1-200, 44-1-210, 44-1-215, 44-1-220, 44-1-230, 44-1-280, 44-1-300, 44-1-310, 44-1-315, 44-2-20, 44-2-40, 44-2-60, 44-2-130, 44-2-150, 44-3-10, 44 3-150, 44-4-130, 44-4-300, 44-4-310, 44-4-320, 44-4-330, 44-4-340, 44-4-500, 44-4-510, 44-4-520, 44-4-530, 44-4-540, 44-4-550, 44-4-560, 44-4-570, 44-5-20, 44-6-5, 44-6-150, 44-6-170, 44-6-400, 44-7-77, 44-7-80, 44-7-90, 44-7-130, 44-7-150, 44-7-180, 44-7-190, 44-7-200, 44-7-210, 44-7-220, 44-7-225, 44-7-230, 44-7-240, 44-7-250, 44-7-260, 44-7-320, 44-7-325, 44-7-370, 44 7-392, 44-7-510, 44-7-1420, 44-7-1440, 44-7-1490, 44-7-1590, 44-7-1660, 44-7-1690, 44-7-2420, 44-7-2430, 44-7-2940, 44-7-3430, 44-7-3460, 44-8-10, 44-8-20, 44-8-60, 44-9-70, 44-20-270, 44-29-10, 44-29-15, 44-29-20, 44-29-30, 44-29-40, 44-29-50, 44-29-60, 44-29-70, 44-29-80, 44-29-90, 44-29-100, 44-29-110, 44-29-115, 44-29-120, 44-29-130, 44-29-135, 44-29-136, 44-29-140, 44-29-145, 44-29-146, 44-29-150, 44-29-160, 44-29-170, 44-29-180, 44-29-185, 44-29-190, 44-29-195, 44-29-200, 44-29-210, 44-29-230, 44-29-240, 44-29-250, 44-30-20, 44-30-90, 44-31-10, 44-31-20, 44-31-30, 44-31-105, 44-31-110, 44-31-610, 44-32-10, 44-32-20, 44-32-120, 44-33-10, 44 33-310, 44-34-10, 44-34-20, 44-34-100, 44-35-10, 44-35-20, 44-35-30, 44-35-40, 44-35-50, 44-35-60, 44-35-70, 44-35-80, 44-35-90, 44-35-100, 44-36-20, 44-36-30, 44-36-50, 44-36-320, 44-36-520, 44-37-20, 44-37-30, 44-37-40, 44-37-50, 44-37-70, 44-38-30, 44-38-380, 44-38-630, 44-39-20, 44-40-30, 44-40-60, 44-41-10, 44-41-60, 44-41-340, 44-44-20, 44-44-30, 44-44-40, 44-49-40, 44-52-10, 44-53-10, 44-53-50, 44-53-110, 44-53-160, 44-53-280, 44-53-290, 44-53-310, 44-53-320, 44-53-360, 44-53-362, 44-53-375, 44-53-430, 44-53-480, 44-53-490, 44-53-500, 44-53-630, 44-53-620, 44-53-710, 44-53-720, 44-53-730, 44-53-740, 44-53-750, 44-53-930, 44-53-1320, 44-53-1630, 44-53-1640, 44-55-20, 44-55-30, 44-55-40, 44-55-45, 44-55-50, 44-55-60, 44-55-70, 44-55-120, 44-55-210, 44-55-220, 44-55-230, 44-55-240, 44-55-250, 44-55-260, 44-55-270, 44-55-275, 44-55-280, 44-55-290, 44-55-410, 44-55-420, 44-55-430, 44-55-440, 44-55-450, 44-55-460, 44-55-610, 44-55-620, 44-55-630, 44-55-640, 44-55-650, 44-55-660, 44-55-670, 44-55-680, 44-55-690, 44-55-700, 44-55-820, 44-55-822, 44-55-825, 44-55-827, 44-55-830, 44-55-860, 44-55-1310, 44-55-2320, 44-55-2360, 44-55-2390, 44-56-20, 44-56-30, 44-56-60, 44-56-100, 44-56-130, 44-56-160, 44-56-200, 44-56-210, 44-56-405, 44-56-410, 44-56-420, 44-56-495, 44-56-840, 44-59-10, 44-59-30, 44-61-20, 44-61-30, 44-61-40, 44-61-50, 44-61-60, 44-61-70, 44-61-80, 44-61-130, 44-61-310, 44-61-320, 44-61-340, 44-61-350, 44-61-510, 44-61-520, 44-61-530, 44-61-540, 44-61-630, 44-61-650, 44-63-10, 44-63-20, 44-63-30, 44-63-80, 44-63-86, 44-63-110, 44-63-161, 44-63-163, 44-69-20, 44-69-30, 44-69-50, 44-70-20, 44-71-20, 44-71-70, 44-74-50, 44-74-60, 44-78-15, 44-78-65, 44-80-10, 44-81-30, 44-87-10, 44-89-30, 44-89-90, 44-93-20, 44-93-160, 44-96-40, 44-96-60, 44-96-85, 44-96-100, 44-96-120, 44-96-165, 44-96-170, 44-96-250, 44-96-440, 44-96-450, 44-99-10, 44-99-30, 44-99-50, 44-113-20, 44-115-80, 44-115-130, 44-117-50, 44-122-50, 44-125-20, 44-128-20, 44-128-50, 44-130-20, 44-130-70, 44-139-40, 44-139-50, 45-4-30, 45-4-70, 46-1-130, 46-1-140, 46-3-240, 46-7-100, 46-7-110, 46-9-120, 46-13-110, 46-13-150, 46-45-10, 46-45-60, 46-45-80, 46-49-60, 46-51-20, 46-57-20, 46-57-50, 47-1-80, 47-3-420, 47-4-150, 47-5-20, 47-9-60, 47-17-40, 47-17-120, 47-17-130, 47-17-140, 47-17-320, 47-19-35, 47-20-165, 48-1-10, 48-1-20, 48-1-55, 48-1-85, 48-1-95, 48-1-100, 48-1-110, 48-1-280, 48-2-20, 48-2-60, 48-2-70, 48-2-80, 48-2-320, 48-2-330, 48-2-340, 48-3-10, 48-3-140, 48-5-20, 48-6-50, 48-6-60, 48-18-20, 48-18-50, 48-20-30, 48-20-40, 48-20-70, 48-21-20, 48-34-40, 48-39-10, 48-39-35, 48-39-45, 48-39-50, 48-39-250, 48-39-270, 48-39-280, 48-39-290, 48-39-320, 48-39-345, 48-40-20, 48-40-40, 48-40-50, 48-40-60, 48-40-70, 48-43-10, 48-43-30, 48-43-40, 48-43-50, 48-43-60, 48-43-100, 48-43-390, 48-43-510, 48-43-520, 48-43-570, 48-46-30, 48-46-40, 48-46-50, 48-46-80, 48-46-90, 48-52-810, 48-52-865, 48-55-10, 48-56-20, 48-57-20, 48-60-20, 48-62-30, 49-1-15, 49-1-16, 49-1-18, 49-3-60, 49-4-20, 49-4-80, 49-4-170, 49-5-30, 49-5-60, 49-6-10, 49-6-30, 49-11-120, 49-11-170, 49-11-260, 49-23-60, 50-5-35, 50-5-360, 50-5-910, 50-5-955, 50-5-965, 50-5-997, 50-11-90, 50-15-430, 50-16-30, 50-19-1935, 50-21-30, 54-6-10, 55-1-100, 56-1-221, 56-3-9800, 56-5-170, 56-5-2720, 56-35-50, 56-35-60, 56-35-80, 58-27-255, 58-33-140, 59-1-380, 59-1-450, 59-31-330, 59-32-10, 59-32-30, 59-36-20, 59-47-10, 59-63-75, 59-63-95, 59-111-720, 59-123-125, 59-152-60, 61-4-220, 61-4-1515, 61-4-1750, 61-6-1610, 61-6-2410, 62-1-302, 63-1-50, 63-7-1210, 63-9-730, 63-9-910, 63-11-1720, 63-11-1930, 63-11-2240, 63-11-2290, 63-13-80, 63-13-180, AND 63-17-70, ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES TO THE RESTRUCTURING PROVIDED BY ACT 60 OF 2023; AND BY REPEALING SECTIONS 44-1-30, 44-1-40, 44-1-50, 44-3-110, 44-3-120, 44-3-130, 44-3-140, 44-7-310, 44-11-30, 44-11-40, 44-55-1320, 44-55-1330, 44-55-1350, 44-55-1360, 59-111-510, 59-111-520, 59-111-530, 59-111-540, 59-111-550, 59-111-560, 59-111-570, AND 59-111-580 ALL RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL.
Rep. BEACH proposed the following Amendment No. 4 to H. 4189 (Word version) (LC-4189.VR0004H), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 117, by striking Section 44-4-510(A)(2) and inserting:
(A)(1) During a state of public health emergency, DHECDPH may perform voluntary physical examinations or tests as necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of individuals.
(2) DHEC may isolate or quarantine, pursuant to the sections of this act and its existing powers under Section 44-1-140, any person whose refusal of physical examination or testing results in uncertainty regarding whether he or she has been exposed to or is infected with a contagious or possibly contagious disease or otherwise poses a danger to public health.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 117, by striking Sections 44-4-520, 44-4-530, and 44-4-540 and inserting:
Section 44-4-520. (A) During a state of public health emergency, DHEC may exercise the following emergency powers, in addition to its existing powers, over persons as necessary to address the public health emergency:
(1) to vaccinate persons as protection against infectious disease and to prevent the spread of contagious or possibly contagious disease;
(2) to treat persons exposed to or infected with disease; and
(3) to prevent the spread of contagious or possibly contagious disease, DHEC may isolate or quarantine, pursuant to the applicable sections of this act, persons who are unable or unwilling for any reason (including, but not limited to, health, religion, or conscience) to undergo vaccination or treatment pursuant to this section.
(B) Vaccinations or treatment, or both, must be provided only to those individuals who agree to the vaccinations or treatment, or both.
(C)(1) Vaccination may be performed by any qualified person authorized by DHEC.
(2) To be administered pursuant to this section, a vaccine must not be such as is reasonably likely to lead to serious harm to the affected individual.
(D)(1) Treatment must be administered by any qualified person authorized to do so by DHEC.
(2) Treatment must not be such as is reasonably likely to lead to serious harm to the affected individual.
Section 44-4-530. (A) During a public health emergency, DHEC may isolate or quarantine an individual or groups of individuals. This includes individuals or groups who have not been vaccinated, treated, tested, or examined pursuant to Sections 44-4-510 and 44-4-520. DHEC may also establish and maintain places of isolation and quarantine, and set rules and make orders.
(B) DHEC must adhere to the following conditions and principles when isolating or quarantining individuals or groups of individuals:
(1) isolation and quarantine must be by the least restrictive means necessary to prevent the spread of a contagious or possibly contagious disease to others and may include, but are not limited to, confinement to private homes or other private and public premises;
(2) individuals isolated because of objective evidence of infection or contagious disease must be confined separately from quarantined asymptomatic individuals;
(3) the health status of isolated and quarantined individuals must be monitored regularly to determine if they require isolation or quarantine;
(4) if a quarantined individual becomes infected or is reasonably believed to be infected with a contagious or possibly contagious disease, he or she must be promptly removed to isolation;
(5) isolated and quarantined individuals must be immediately released when they pose no substantial risk of transmitting a contagious or possibly contagious disease to others;
(6) the needs of persons isolated and quarantined must be addressed in a systematic and competent fashion including, but not limited to, providing adequate food, clothing, shelter, means of communication with those in isolation or quarantine and outside these settings, medication, and competent medical care;
(7) premises used for isolation and quarantine must be maintained in a safe and hygienic manner and be designed to minimize the likelihood of further transmission of infection or other harms to persons isolated or quarantined; and
(8) to the extent possible, cultural and religious beliefs must be considered in addressing the needs of the individuals and establishing and maintaining isolation and quarantine premises.
(C) A person subject to isolation or quarantine must comply with DHEC's rules and orders, and must not go beyond the isolation or quarantine premises. Failure to comply with these rules and orders constitutes a felony and, upon conviction, a person must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.
(D)(1) DHEC may authorize physicians, health care workers, or others access to individuals in isolation or quarantine as necessary to meet the needs of isolated or quarantined individuals.
(2) No person, other than a person authorized by DHEC, shall enter isolation or quarantine premises. Failure to comply with this provision constitutes a felony and, upon conviction, a person must be fined not more than one thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.
(3) A person entering an isolation or quarantine premises with or without authorization of DHEC may be isolated or quarantined as provided for in this chapter.
(4) The public safety authority and other law enforcement officers may arrest, isolate, or quarantine an individual who is acting in violation of an isolation or quarantine order after the order is given to the individual pursuant to Section 44-4-540(B)(3) or after the individual is provided notice of the order. In a case where an individual is not the subject of an isolation or quarantine order under Section 44-4-540, law enforcement officers may provide written or verbal notice of the order. Law enforcement officers may arrest, isolate, or quarantine an individual who is acting in violation of isolation or quarantine rules after the rules are established and the individual is given written or verbal notice of the rules. An arrest warrant or an additional isolation or quarantine order is not required for arrest, isolation, or quarantine under Section 44-4-530(D)(4).
(E) An employer may not fire, demote, or otherwise discriminate against an employee complying with an isolation or quarantine order issued pursuant to Section 44-1-80, 44-1-110, 44-1-140, 44-4-520, 44-4-530, or 44-4-540; however, nothing in this section prohibits an employer from requiring an employee to use annual or sick leave to comply with such an order.
Section 44-4-540. (A) During a public health emergency, the isolation and quarantine of an individual or groups of individuals must be undertaken in accordance with the procedures provided in this section.
(B)(1) DHEC may temporarily isolate or quarantine an individual or groups of individuals through an emergency order signed by the commissioner or his designee, if delay in imposing the isolation or quarantine would significantly jeopardize DHEC's ability to prevent or limit the transmission of a contagious or possibly contagious disease to others.
(2) The emergency order must specify the following: (i) the identity of the individual or groups of individuals subject to isolation or quarantine; (ii) the premises subject to isolation or quarantine; (iii) the date and time at which isolation or quarantine commences; (iv) the suspected contagious disease, if known; and (v) a copy of Article V of this act and relevant definitions of this act.
(3) A copy of the emergency order must be given to the individual(s) or groups of individuals to be isolated or quarantined, or if impractical to be given to a group of individuals, it may be posted in a conspicuous place in the isolation or quarantine premises.
(4) Within ten days after issuing the emergency order, DHEC must file a petition pursuant to subsection (C) of this section for a court order authorizing the continued isolation or quarantine of the isolated or quarantined individual or groups of individuals.
(C)(A)(1) DHECDPH may make a written petition to the trial court for an order authorizing the isolation or quarantine of an individual or groups of individuals.
(2) A petition under subsection (C)(A)(1) must specify the following: (i) the identity of the individual or groups of individuals subject to isolation or quarantine; (ii) the premises subject to isolation or quarantine; (iii) the date and time at which isolation or quarantine commences; (iv) the suspected contagious disease, if known; and (v) a statement of compliance with the conditions and principles for isolation or quarantine of Section 44-4-530(B); and (vi) a statement of the basis upon which isolation or quarantine is justified in compliance with this article. The petition must be accompanied by a sworn affidavit of DHECDPH attesting to the facts asserted in the petition, together with any further information that may be relevant and material to the court's consideration.
(3) Notice to individuals or groups of individuals identified in the petition must be accomplished within twenty-four hours in accordance with the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. If notice by mail or fax is not possible, notice must be made by personal service.
(4) A hearing must be held on any petition filed pursuant to this subsection within five days of filing of the petition. In extraordinary circumstances and for good cause shown, DHECDPH may apply to continue the hearing date on a petition filed pursuant to this section for up to ten days, which continuance the court may grant in its discretion giving due regard to the rights of the affected individuals, the protection of the public's health, the severity of the emergency, and the availability of necessary witnesses and evidence.
(5)(a) The court must grant the petition if, by a preponderance of the evidence, isolation or quarantine is shown to be reasonably necessary to prevent or limit the transmission of a contagious or possibly contagious disease.
(b) An order authorizing isolation or quarantine may do so for a period not to exceed thirty days. (c) The order must: (i) identify the isolated or quarantined individuals or groups of individuals by name or shared or similar characteristics or circumstances; (ii) specify factual findings warranting isolation or quarantine pursuant to this act; (iii) include any conditions necessary to ensure that isolation or quarantine is carried out within the stated purposes and restrictions of this act; and (iv) served on affected individuals or groups of individuals in accordance with the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. If notice by mail or fax is not possible, notice must be made by personal service.
(d) Prior to the expiration of an order issued pursuant to this item, DHECDPH may move to continue the isolation or quarantine for additional periods not to exceed thirty days each. The court must consider the motion in accordance with standards set forth in this item.
(D)(B)(1) An individual or group of individuals isolated or quarantined pursuant to this act may apply to the trial court for an order to show cause why the individual or group of individuals should not be released. The court must rule on the application to show cause within forty-eight hours of its filing. If the court grants the application, the court must schedule a hearing on the order to show cause within twenty-four hours from issuance of the order to show cause. The issuance of the order to show cause does not stay or enjoin the isolation or quarantine order.
(2)(a) An individual or group of individuals isolated or quarantined pursuant to this act may request a hearing in the trial court for remedies regarding breaches to the conditions of isolation or quarantine. A request for a hearing does not stay or enjoin the isolation or quarantine order.
(b) Upon receipt of a request under this subsection alleging extraordinary circumstances justifying the immediate granting of relief, the court must fix a date for hearing on the matters alleged not more than twenty-four hours from receipt of the request.
(c) Otherwise, upon receipt of a request under this subsection, the court must fix a date for hearing on the matters alleged within five days from receipt of the request.
(3) In any proceedings brought for relief under this subsection, in extraordinary circumstances and for good cause shown, DHECDPH may move the court to extend the time for a hearing, which extension the court in its discretion may grant giving due regard to the rights of the affected individuals, the protection of the public's health, the severity of the emergency, and the availability of the necessary witnesses and evidence.
(E)(C) A record of the proceedings pursuant to this section must be made and retained. In the event that, given a state of public health emergency, parties cannot personally appear before the court, proceedings may be conducted by their authorized representatives and be held via any means that allow all parties to fully participate.
(F)(D) The court must appoint counsel to represent individuals or groups of individuals who are or who are about to be isolated or quarantined pursuant to the provisions of this act and who are not otherwise represented by counsel. Payment for these appointments must be made in accordance with other appointments for legal representation in actions arising outside of matters in this act, and is not the responsibility of any one state agency. Appointments last throughout the duration of the isolation or quarantine of the individual or groups of individuals. DHECDPH must provide adequate means of communication between such individuals or groups of individuals and their counsel. Where necessary, additional counsel for DHECDPH from other state agencies or from private attorneys appointed to represent state agencies, must be appointed to provide adequate representation for the agency and to allow timely hearings of the petitions and motions specified in this section.
(G)(E) In any proceedings brought pursuant to this section, to promote the fair and efficient operation of justice and having given due regard to the rights of the affected individuals, the protection of the public's health, the severity of the emergency, and the availability of necessary witnesses and evidence, the court may order the consolidation of individual claims into groups of claims where:
(1) the number of individuals involved or to be affected is so large as to render individual participation impractical;
(2) there are questions of law or fact common to the individual claims or rights to be determined;
(3) the group claims or rights to be determined are typical of the affected individuals' claims or rights; and
(4) the entire group will be adequately represented in the consolidation.
(H)(F) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (A), priorPrior to the Governor declaring a public health emergency, as defined in Section 44-4-130, the isolation and quarantine of an individual or groups of individuals pursuant to Section 44-1-80, 44-1-110, 44-1-140, 44-4-520, 44-4-530, or 44-4-540 must be undertaken in accordance with the procedures provided in this section.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 117, by striking Section 44-4-570(A)(1), (2), and (3) and inserting:
(1) to require in-state health care providers to assist in the performance of vaccination, treatment, examination, or testing of any individual as a condition of licensure, authorization, or the ability to continue to function as a health care provider in this State;
(2)(1) to accept the volunteer services of in-state and out-of-state health carehealthcare providers consistent with Title 8, Chapter 25, to appoint such in-state and out-of-state health carehealthcare providers as emergency support function volunteers, and to prescribe the duties as may be reasonable and necessary for emergency response; and
(3)(2) to authorize the medical examiner or coroner to appoint and prescribe the duties of such emergency assistant medical examiners or coroners as may be required for the proper performance of the duties of the office.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. BEACH explained the amendment.
Rep. DAVIS raised the Rule 9.3 Point of Order that Amendment No. 4 was not germane to H 4189.
Rep. BEACH argued contra.
Rep. DAVIS argued that the Amendment added new substantive language concerning the operations of the Department of Environmental Services and went beyond the technical changes made by the Bill.
The SPEAKER stated that the Bill was a technical cleanup Bill and the Amendment made substantive changes to the operations of the Department of Environmental Services. He stated the Amendment went beyond the scope of the Bill and sustained the Point of Order.
Rep. BEACH proposed the following Amendment No. 5 to H. 4189 (Word version) (LC-4189.VR0005H), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 100, by striking Section 44-1-80(A) and inserting:
(A) The Board ofDepartment of Public Health and Environmental Control or its designated agents must investigate the reported causes of communicable or epidemic disease. The Department of Public Health, upon approval of the Governor, may and must enforce or prescribe these preventive measures as may be needed to suppress or prevent the spread of these diseases by proper quarantine or other measures of prevention, as may be necessary to protect the citizens of the State. The Board of Department of Public Health and Environmental Control or its designated agents shall declare, when the facts justify it, any place as infected and, in case of hydrophobia or other diseases transmitted from animals to man, must declare such animal or animals quarantined, and must place all such restrictions upon ingress and egress of persons or animals therefrom as may be, in its judgment, necessary to prevent the spread of disease from the infected locality.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 100, by striking Section 44-1-100 and inserting:
Section 44-1-100. AllIf so ordered by the Governor, all sheriffs and constables in the several counties of this State and police officers and health officers of cities and towns must aid and assist the Director of the Department of Public Health and Environmental Control and must carry out and obey his orders, or those of the Department of Public Health and Environmental Control, to enforce and carry out any and all restrictive measures and quarantine regulations that may be prescribed. During a state of public health emergency, as defined in Section 44-4-130, the director may request assistance in enforcing orders issued pursuant to this chapter and pursuant to Chapter 4, Title 44, from the public safety authority, as defined in Section 44-4-130, other state law enforcement authorities, and local law enforcement. The public safety authority may request assistance from the South Carolina National Guard in enforcing orders made pursuant to this chapter or pursuant to Chapter 4, Title 44, which may be deployed or activated only upon order of the Governor.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 116, Section 44-4-300, by striking the <<placeholder>> undesignated paragraph and inserting:
After the declaration of a state of public health emergency by the Governor pursuant to Section 25-1-440, DHECDPH may exercise, with the approval of the Governor and in coordination with state agencies, local governments, and other organizations responsible for implementation of the emergency support functions in the State Emergency Operations Plan for handling dangerous facilities and materials, for such period as the state of public health emergency exists, the following powers over dangerous facilities or materials:
Amend the bill further, SECTION 116, by striking Section 44-4-330(A) and inserting:
(A) After the declaration of a public health emergency by the Governor pursuant to Section 25-1-440, DHECDPH may purchase and distribute antitoxins, serums, vaccines, immunizing agents, antibiotics, and other pharmaceutical agents or medical supplies that it considers advisable in the interest of preparing for or controlling athe declared public health emergency, without any additional legislative authorization.
Amend the bill further, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:
SECTION X. Article 5, Chapter 4, Title 44 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 44-4-495. For purposes of this article, "during a state of public health emergency" means a state of public health emergency declared by the Governor pursuant to his authority in Section 25-1-440.
SECTION X.A. Section 25-1-440 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
(f) For a localized public health emergency, the sheriff of the affected county has the same powers and duties set forth in subsection (a) as does the Governor, until such time as the public health emergency crosses the county's border affecting another county. In addition, the same limitations on the Governor's powers and duties as set forth in subsection (a) apply to the same extent to a sheriff in the case of a localized public health emergency. "Localized public health emergency" means a public health emergency specific to a single county that does not cross the county's border or otherwise affect the residents of any other county of the State of South Carolina.
B. Section 25-1-440(a)(2) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(2) declare a state of emergency for all or part of the State if he finds a disaster or a public health emergency, as defined in Section 44-4-130, has occurred, or that the threat thereof is imminent and extraordinary measures are considered necessary to cope with the existing or anticipated situation. A declared state of emergency shall not continue for a period of more than fifteen days without the consent of the General Assembly. Moreover, only one declaration for the same disaster or public health emergency is authorized pursuant to this section. Subsequent declarations for the same disaster or public health emergency require General Assembly consent;
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. BEACH explained the amendment.
Rep. DAVIS raised the Point of Order that Amendment No. 5 was not germane to H. 4189 (Word version).
Rep. BEACH argued contra.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.
Rep. SESSIONS explained the Bill.
Rep. MAGNUSON spoke against the Bill.
Rep. SESSIONS spoke in favor of the Bill.
The question recurred to the passage of the Bill.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Duncan Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hardee Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Martin McCravy McDaniel McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pedalino Rankin Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Burns Chumley Cromer Edgerton Frank Gilreath Harris Huff Kilmartin Magnuson May McCabe Morgan Pace Terribile White
So, the Bill was read the second time and ordered to third reading.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C. Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Senators Peeler, Jackson and Alexander to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 4025 (Word version):
H. 4025 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2025, TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF STATE GOVERNMENT DURING THIS FISCAL YEAR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Very Respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received from the Senate:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon its amendments to S. 29 (Word version):
S. 29 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Cromer, Verdin and Kennedy: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-375, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO THE DISSEMINATION OF HARMFUL MATERIAL TO MINORS, SO AS TO DEFINE IDENTIFIABLE MINOR AND MORPHED IMAGE AS AN OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN AS AN OFFENS; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
and asks for a Committee of Conference and has appointed Senators Hutto, Kimbrell and Adams to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate.
Very respectfully,
President
Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. T. MOORE, WETMORE and MCCABE to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
Rep. DAVIS moved that the House recur to the morning hour, which was agreed to.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:
H. 3292 (Word version) -- Reps. Hixon, Pedalino, W. Newton, Forrest, B. L. Cox, Erickson, Taylor, Hartz, Atkinson and Pace: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-2-105, RELATING TO GOLF CART PERMITS AND THE OPERATION OF GOLF CARTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN MUNICIPALITIES AND COUNTIES MAY ENACT ORDINANCES TO ALLOW GOLF CARTS TO OPERATE IN DESIGNATED AREAS WITHIN THEIR JURISDICTIONS AT NIGHT.
Rep. HIXON explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Bustos Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hardee Harris Hart Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Huff J. E. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McGinnis Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Rankin Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Weeks White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Howard King McDaniel Spann-Wilder Waters Wetmore
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The following Bill was taken up: H. 3876 (Word version) -- Reps. Hewitt, Bailey, Kirby, Oremus, Hardee, Hayes, Cobb-Hunter, Ligon, Rutherford, B. L. Cox, Henderson-Myers and Atkinson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-36-72 SO AS TO SPECIFY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COLLECTING AND REMITTING CERTAIN TAXES AND FEES IMPOSED ON ACCOMMODATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-70, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF RETAILER, SO AS TO INCLUDE PERSONS OPERATING AS AN ACCOMMODATIONS INTERMEDIARY AND TO DELETE AN EXCEPTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-920, RELATING TO THE ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO SPECIFY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COLLECTING AND REMITTING CERTAIN TAXES AND FEES IMPOSED ON ACCOMMODATIONS AND TO REQUIRE AN ANNUAL REPORT ON IMPOSITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-510, RELATING TO THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO INCLUDE GROSS PROCEEDS OF PERSONS ACTING AS MERCHANTS OF RECORD; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-520, RELATING TO THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO REQUIRE A LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND THE STATE TREASURER OF CERTAIN IMPOSITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-570, RELATING TO REMITTING THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE TAX IS TO BE COLLECTED; BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-630, RELATING TO THE BEACH PRESERVATION FEE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE FEE TO BE COLLECTED AND REMITTED IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX AND TO REQUIRE THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND THE STATE TREASURER OF THE IMPOSITION OF THE FEE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 5-7-30, RELATING TO THE POWERS OF A MUNICIPALITY, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN UNIFORM SERVICE CHANGES ON ACCOMMODATIONS BE COLLECTED AND REMITTED IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS TAX AND TO REQUIRE THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND THE STATE TREASURER OF THE IMPOSITION OF THE FEE.
Ways and Means Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 to H. 3876 (Word version) (LC-3876.DG0001H):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting SECTION 8.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. HEWITT explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.
Rep. RUTHERFORD proposed the following Amendment No. 2 to H. 3876 (Word version) (LC-3876.DG0002H), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Article 1, Chapter 1, Title 6 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 6-1-195. (A) Notwithstanding another provision of law, a governing body of a municipality, county, or other political subdivision of the State may not enact or enforce an ordinance, resolution, or regulation that prohibits the rental of a residential dwelling to a short-term guest.
(B) A municipality, county, or other political subdivision of the State that enacts or enforces an ordinance, resolution, or regulation that violates the provisions of subsection (A) may not:
(1) assess or collect the six percent property assessment ratio for qualifying real property pursuant to Section 12-43-220(e); and
(2)(a) receive any distributions from the Local Government Fund pursuant to Chapter 27, Title 6; and
(b) the Office of the State Treasurer shall withhold the municipality's, county's, or political subdivision's State Aid to Subdivisions Act distribution until the ordinance, resolution, or regulation in violation of subsection (A) is repealed.
(C) This section supersedes and preempts any ordinance, resolution, or regulation enacted by a municipality, county, or other political subdivision of the State that purports to prohibit the rental of a residential dwelling to a short-term guest.
(D) For purposes of this section: (1) "Residential dwelling" means any building, structure, or part of the building or structure, that is used or intended to be used as a home, residence, or sleeping place by one or more persons to the exclusion of all others.
(2) "Short term rental" means a residential dwelling that is offered for rent for a fee and for fewer than twenty-nine consecutive days.
(3) "Short term guest" means a person who rents a short-term rental.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. COLLINS raised the Rule 9.3 Point of Order that Amendment No. 2 was not germane to H. 3876 (Word version).
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.
The question recurred to the passage of the Bill.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Bamberg Bannister Bernstein Bowers Brewer Brittain Burns Bustos Calhoon Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Davis Forrest Gilliam Govan Guest Guffey Hardee Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Hewitt Holman Hosey Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin McCabe Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton Oremus Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler G. M. Smith Taylor Teeple Vaughan Wetmore Whitmire Williams Wooten
Those who voted in the negative are:
Ballentine Bauer Beach Bradley Chapman Cromer Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilreath Grant Haddon Hager Harris Hart Hiott Hixon Howard Kilmartin King May McCravy Morgan Pace Sessions M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Terribile Waters Weeks White Willis
So, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. MCGINNIS a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. BUSTOS a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.
Rep. M. M. SMITH moved that the House recede until 1:30 p.m., which was agreed to.
At 1:30 p.m. the House resumed, the SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE in the Chair.
The question of a quorum was raised.
A quorum was later present.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and has granted free conference powers and appointed Senators Hembree, Sabb and Adams of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on S. 156 (Word version):
S. 156 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Garrett, Stubbs, Adams, Bennett, Kimbrell, Young, Turner, Peeler and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-80 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE, TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION, AND TO PROHIBIT AN AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-1-10, RELATING TO A LIST OF EXCEPTIONS FOR FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS, SO AS TO ADD FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C. Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Senators Johnson, Climer and Williams to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate onS. 127 (Word version):
S. 127 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Peeler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-11-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CATAWBA NATION WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF EMPLOYER; AND BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-43 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CATAWBA NATION IS ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION TO THE POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROCESS FOR ADMISSION.
Very Respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was introduced:
H. 4552 (Word version) -- Reps. Rose, Rutherford, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE HEATHWOOD HALL EPISCOPAL SCHOOL BOYS TRACK AND FIELD TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM FOR WINNING THE 2025 SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION DIVISION 1 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.
The following was introduced:
H. 4553 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO DECLARE THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025, AS "NATIONAL GUARD DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE MANY SACRIFICES AND VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD MAKES TO PROTECT THE FREEDOM, DEMOCRACY, AND SECURITY OF OUR STATE AND NATION.
The Resolution was adopted.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration: H. 4247 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-10, RELATING TO STATE COMMODITY CODE DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE STATE COMMODITY CODE BE THE SOUTH CAROLINA ATTORNEY GENERAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-40, RELATING TO TRANSACTIONS WHERE PROHIBITION IS NOT APPLICABLE, SO AS TO ADD AGENTS OR INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVES AS INDIVIDUALS SUBJECT TO AN ORDER TO DENY, SUSPEND, OR REVOKE A PERSON'S LICENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-60, RELATING TO PROHIBITED ACTS, SO AS TO REPLACE SECTION 39-73-310 WITH SECTION 39-73-30; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-80, RELATING TO STATE SECURITIES LAWS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-315, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATOR ACTIONS TO PREVENT VIOLATIONS OR IMMINENT VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR CAN ISSUE AN ORDER RELATED TO ANY ACTION THAT MAY VIOLATE THIS CHAPTER; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-320, RELATING TO LEGAL, EQUITABLE, AND SPECIAL REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO A COURT FOR ENFORCEMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY MAINTAIN AN ACTION IN THE RICHLAND COUNTY COURT OF COMMON PLEAS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-325, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR MAY REFER VIOLATIONS TO THE APPROPRIATE DIVISION OF THE OFFICE OF ATTORNEY GENERAL OR OTHER AUTHORITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-330, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS CHAPTER, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-340, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, FORMS, AND ORDERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-350, RELATING TO THE APPLICABILITY OF SECTIONS 39-73-20, 39-73-50, AND 39-73-60 TO PERSONS WHO SELL, BUY, OR OFFER TO SELL OR BUY COMMODITIES IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR APPLICABLE RADIO AND TELEVISION COMMUNICATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-360, RELATING TO JUDICIAL REVIEW, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES; BY AMENDING SECTION 39-73-370, RELATING TO DEFENSE IN A CASE BASED ON FAILURE TO MAKE PHYSICAL DELIVERY, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-375 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL MAY RETAIN FUNDS FROM FINES AND PENALTIES TO OFFSET RELEVANT EXPENSES; BY ADDING SECTION 39-73-400 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR SEVERABILITY OF THIS CHAPTER; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 39-73-355 RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS.
Rep. WOOTEN explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Alexander Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Caskey Chapman Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Huff J. E. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., May 08, 2025
The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
S. 127 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Peeler: TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-11-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CATAWBA NATION WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF EMPLOYER; AND BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-43 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CATAWBA NATION IS ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION TO THE POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROCESS FOR ADMISSION.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:
That the same do pass with the following amendments:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Section 9-11-10(17) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(17) "Employer" means:
(a) the State;
(b) a political subdivision, agency, or department of the State which employs police officers and which has been admitted to the system as provided in Section 9-11-40; and
(c) a service organization, the membership of which is composed solely of persons eligible to be members as defined by this section, if the compensation received by the employees of the service organization is provided from monies paid by the members as dues, or otherwise, or from funds derived from public sources and if the contributions prescribed by this chapter are to be paid from the funds of the service organization.; and
(d) the Catawba Nation upon its admission to the system as provided in Section 9-11-43.
SECTION 2. Chapter 11, Title 9 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 9-11-43. (A) The Catawba Nation may become an employer for the purposes of this chapter by applying to the board for admission to the system pursuant to Section 9-11-40, complying with the requirements of Section 9-11-40, and complying with the board's rules and regulations. The application must set forth the requested date of admission, which must be the January first, the April first, the July first, or the October first next following receipt by the board of the application.
(B) An employee of the Catawba Nation may not become a member of the system unless substantially all of the employee's time is devoted solely to the performance of governmental service as a police officer pursuant to Section 27-16-70(C).
(C) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, as a condition to joining the system, the Catawba Nation agrees to be subject to all of the state laws, regulations, administrative policies, and plan provisions related to the administration and enforcement of the requirements of the system and agrees that any and all disputes arising pursuant to or by virtue of its participation in the system will be resolved in the appropriate state court or administrative tribunal, notwithstanding any sovereign immunity that might otherwise apply. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to affect, modify, diminish, or otherwise impair any sovereign immunity enjoyed by the Catawba Nation with respect to any other provision of state law unrelated to the administration and enforcement of the requirements of the system.
SECTION 3. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Amend title to conform.
/s/Sen. Johnson /s/Rep. B. Newton /s/Senator Climer Rep. Cobb-Hunter /s/Senator Williams /s/Rep. Pope O On part of the House.Rep. COBB-HUNTER explained the Conference Report.
Rep. COBB-HUNTER continued speaking.
Rep. POPE spoke in favor of the Conference Report.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Alexander Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Collins B. L. Cox Cromer Davis Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Gilreath Govan Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Harris Hartnett Hartz Hayes Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Huff J. E. Johnson Jordan Kilmartin Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy Mitchell T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
Anderson Cobb-Hunter Crawford Dillard Gilliard Henderson-Myers Hosey Howard Jones King McDaniel Reese Rivers Spann-Wilder Waters
The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The following was introduced:
H. 4554 (Word version) -- Rules Committee: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO SET BY SPECIAL ORDER H. 3752 (Word version), RELATING TO THE SOCIAL WORK INTERSTATE COMPACT ACT; S. 74 (Word version), RELATING TO WARRANTS AND SUBPOENAS FOR CERTAIN ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS; S. 136 (Word version), RELATING TO EXPUNGEMENT OF CERTAIN PRIOR HANDGUN POSSESSION CONVICTIONS; AND S. 28 (Word version), RELATING TO THE OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE, FOR IMMEDIATE CONSIDERATION, THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025, IMMEDIATELY UPON ADOPTION OF THE SPECIAL ORDER RESOLUTION.
Rep. CASKEY explained the Resolution.
The following was introduced:
H. 4555 (Word version) -- Reps. Garvin, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND TIFFANYJ FOR HER EXCEPTIONAL COMMUNITY SERVICE AND TO CELEBRATE THE TWELFTH AND FINAL BEAUTY, YOU ARE BOOT CAMP, WHICH HAS SHAPED THE LIVES OF SO MANY YOUNG GIRLS ACROSS THE SOUTHEAST.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced:
H. 4556 (Word version) -- Reps. J. L. Johnson and Grant: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO FORMALLY CENSURE REPRESENTATIVE JOHN R. MCCRAVY III, FOR STATEMENTS MADE IN VIOLATION OF RULE 3.6, RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, REGARDING DECORUM AND UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF SECTION 12, ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895.
The Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Ethics.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:
H. 3752 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Lawson, Pope, Mitchell, Guffey, Oremus, Brewer, Chapman, M. M. Smith, B. L. Cox, W. Newton and Henderson-Myers: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOCIAL WORK INTERSTATE COMPACT ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 63, TITLE 40 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSE, FUNCTIONS, OPERATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE COMPACT; BY ADDING SECTION 40-63-32 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPLICANTS FOR INITIAL LICENSURE AS A SOCIAL WORKER SHALL UNDERGO CERTAIN CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECKS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONFIDENTIALITY AND PERMITTED USES OF THE RESULTS OF THESE CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECKS; AND TO DESIGNATE THE EXISTING PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 63, TITLE 40 AS ARTICLE 1, ENTITLED "GENERAL PROVISIONS."
Rep. WOOTEN explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Alexander Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Davis Dillard Duncan Erickson Forrest Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard J. E. Johnson Jones Jordan King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin McCabe McCravy McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Vaughan Waters Wetmore Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
Beach Cromer Edgerton Gilreath Harris Kilmartin May Morgan Pace Terribile White
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration: S. 74 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Leber, Elliott, Garrett, Ott, Kimbrell, Graham, Zell, Kennedy and Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-13-142 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, A CIRCUIT SOLICITOR, OR THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO REQUIRE THE DISCLOSURE OF ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER RELATED RECORDS BY A PROVIDER OF AN ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION SERVICE OR REMOTE COMPUTING SERVICE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
Rep. T. MOORE explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Alexander Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brittain Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Harris Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:
S. 136 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder, Leber, Kimbrell and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-1-65, RELATING TO THE EXPUNGEMENT OF CONVICTIONS FOR THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF HANDGUNS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE MUST DISMISS CERTAIN PENDING UNLAWFUL HANDGUN POSSESSION CHARGES THAT OCCURRED PRIOR TO THE ENACTMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY/SECOND AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT OF 2024, AND TO PROVIDE THE DISMISSAL OF THESE CHARGES DOES NOT MANDATE THE DISMISSAL OF OTHER RELATED CHARGES OR MAY SERVE AS A BASIS OR SUPPORT FOR CIVIL ACTIONS DUE TO THE ARREST.
Rep. BRITTAIN explained the Senate Amendments. The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Alexander Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Harris Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Howard Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
The Senate Amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The Senate Amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:
S. 28 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Sutton, Cromer, Verdin, Kennedy, Climer and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-390 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE, DEFINE TERMS, AND ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO ADD THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Rep. T. MOORE explained the Senate Amendments.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Harris Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Rutherford Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Rep. J. E. JOHNSON moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request:
S. 156 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Garrett, Stubbs, Adams, Bennett, Kimbrell, Young, Turner, Peeler and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-80 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE, TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION, AND TO PROHIBIT AN AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-1-10, RELATING TO A LIST OF EXCEPTIONS FOR FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS, SO AS TO ADD FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bannister Bauer Beach Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Chapman Chumley Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Gilreath Govan Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Harris Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hewitt Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Rose Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
Gilliard Grant Howard King Rutherford Spann-Wilder Waters
So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.
The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference. The SPEAKER appointed Reps. J. E. JOHNSON, ROBBINS and ROSE to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The following was received from the Senate:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon its amendments to S. 28 (Word version):
S. 28 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Sutton, Cromer, Verdin, Kennedy, Climer and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-390 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE, DEFINE TERMS, AND ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO ADD THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
and asks for a Committee of Conference and has appointed Senators Hutto, Adams and Kimbrell to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate.
Very respectfully,
President
Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. T. MOORE, WETMORE and MCCABE to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on S. 127 (Word version):
S. 127 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Peeler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-11-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CATAWBA NATION WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF EMPLOYER; AND BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-43 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CATAWBA NATION IS ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION TO THE POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROCESS FOR ADMISSION.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on S. 156 (Word version):
S. 156 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Garrett, Stubbs, Adams, Bennett, Kimbrell, Young, Turner, Peeler and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-80 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE, TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION, AND TO PROHIBIT AN AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-1-10, RELATING TO A LIST OF EXCEPTIONS FOR FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS, SO AS TO ADD FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., May 07, 2025
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:
That the same do pass with the following amendments:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Article 1, Chapter 3, Title 16 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 16-3-80. (A) A person who knowingly and unlawfully delivers, dispenses, or otherwise provides fentanyl or a fentanyl-related substance as defined in Section 44-53-190(B) and Section 44-53-210(c)(6) to another person, in violation of the provisions of Section 44-53-370, commits the felony offense of fentanyl-induced homicide if the proximate cause of the death of any other person is the injection, inhalation, absorption, or ingestion of any amount of the fentanyl or fentanyl-related substance that was unlawfully delivered, dispensed, or otherwise provided.
(B) A person convicted of a fentanyl-induced homicide pursuant to the provisions of this section must be imprisoned not more than thirty years.
(C) It is not a defense pursuant to this section that a decedent contributed to his own death by his purposeful, knowing, reckless, or negligent injection, inhalation, absorption, or ingestion of the controlled substance or by his consenting to the administration of the controlled substance by another person, unless there exists clear and convincing evidence that the decedent intended to commit suicide. This section does not prohibit a person from being arrested, charged, or prosecuted for any other applicable offense, whether or not the offense arises from the same circumstances as provided in this section.
(D) A person who knowingly injects, inhales, absorbs, or ingests any amount of fentanyl along with another consenting person, which is the proximate cause of the death of the consenting person, shall not be prosecuted under this section.
SECTION 2. Section 16-1-10(D) of the S.C. Code is amended by adding a new offense to read:
Section 16-3-80. Fentanyl-induced homicide
SECTION 3. The repeal or amendment by this act of any law, whether temporary or permanent or civil or criminal, does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities founded thereon, or alter, discharge, release or extinguish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under the repealed or amended law, unless the repealed or amended provision shall so expressly provide. After the effective date of this act, all laws repealed or amended by this act must be taken and treated as remaining in full force and effect for the purpose of sustaining any pending or vested right, civil action, special proceeding, criminal prosecution, or appeal existing as of the effective date of this act, and for the enforcement of rights, duties, penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities as they stood under the repealed or amended laws.
SECTION 4. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Amend title to conform.
/s/Sen. Hembree /s/Rep. J.E. Johnson /s/Senator Sabb /s/Rep. Robbins /s/Senator Adams /s/Rep. Rose On part of the Senate. On part of the House.
Rep. RUTHERFORD spoke against the Free Conference Report.
Rep. RUTHERFORD continued speaking.
Rep. RUTHERFORD continued speaking.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. HARRIS a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.
Rep. RUTHERFORD continued speaking.
Rep. RUTHERFORD continued speaking.
Rep. RUTHERFORD continued speaking.
Rep. J. E. JOHNSON spoke in favor of the Free Conference Report.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Alexander Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Gibson Gilliam Gilreath Govan Guest Haddon Hager Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Huff J. E. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Robbins Sanders Schuessler Sessions G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
Bamberg Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Garvin Gilliard Grant King McDaniel Reese Rivers Rutherford Spann-Wilder Waters Williams
The Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., May 08, 2025
The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
target="_blank" href="/billsearch.php?BILLNUMBERS=29&SESSION=126&SUMMARY=B">S. 29 (WORD VERSION) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Cromer, Verdin and Kennedy: TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-375, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO THE DISSEMINATION OF HARMFUL MATERIAL TO MINORS, SO AS TO DEFINE IDENTIFIABLE MINOR AND MORPHED IMAGE AS AN OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN AS AN OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:
That the same do pass with the following amendments:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Section 16-15-375 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 16-15-375. The following definitions apply to Section 16-15-385, disseminating or exhibiting to minors harmful material or performances; Section 16-15-387, employing a person under the age of eighteen years to appear in a state of sexually explicit nudity in a public place; Section 16-15-395, first degree sexual exploitation of a minor; Section 16-15-405, second degree sexual exploitation of a minor; Section 16-15-410, third degree sexual exploitation of a minor; Section 16-15-412, morphed image of an identifiable minor; arrest warrant; Section 16-15-415, promoting prostitution of a minor; and Section 16-15-425, participating in prostitution of a minor.
(1) "Harmful to minors" means that quality of any material or performance that depicts sexually explicit nudity or sexual activity and that, taken as a whole, has the following characteristics:
(a) the average adult person applying contemporary community standards would find that the material or performance has a predominant tendency to appeal to a prurient interest of minors in sex; and
(b) the average adult person applying contemporary community standards would find that the depiction of sexually explicit nudity or sexual activity in the material or performance is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community concerning what is suitable for minors; and (c) to a reasonable person, the material or performance taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors.
(2) "Material" means pictures, drawings, video recordings, films, digital electronic files, computer-generated images or pictures, or other visual depictions or representations but not material consisting entirely of written words.
(3) "Minor" means an individual who is less than eighteen years old.
(4) "Prostitution" means engaging or offering to engage in sexual activity with or for another in exchange for anything of value.
(5) "Sexual activity" includes any of the following acts or simulations thereof:
(a) masturbation, whether done alone or with another human or animal;
(b) vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse, whether done with another human or an animal;
(c) touching, in an act of apparent sexual stimulation or sexual abuse, of the clothed or unclothed genitals, pubic area, or buttocks of another person or the clothed or unclothed breasts of a human female;
(d) an act or condition that depicts bestiality, sado-masochistic abuse, meaning flagellation or torture by or upon a person who is nude or clad in undergarments or in a costume which reveals the pubic hair, anus, vulva, genitals, or female breast nipples, or the condition of being fettered, bound, or otherwise physically restrained on the part of the one so clothed;
(e) excretory functions;
(f) the insertion of any part of a person's body, other than the male sexual organ, or of any object into another person's anus or vagina, except when done as part of a recognized medical procedure.
(6) "Sexually explicit nudity" means the showing of:
(a) uncovered, or less than opaquely covered human genitals, pubic area, or buttocks, or the nipple or any portion of the areola of the human female breast; or
(b) covered human male genitals in a discernibly turgid state.
(7) "Identifiable minor"
(a) means a person who:
(1) was a minor at the time the image was created, adapted, or modified, or whose image as a minor was used in the creating, adapting, or modifying of the image; and
(2) is recognizable as an actual person by the person's face, likeness, or other distinguishing characteristic, such as a unique birthmark, or other recognizable feature. (b) shall not be construed to require proof of the actual identity of the identifiable minor.
(8) "Morphed image" means any visual depiction or representation, including any photograph, film, video, picture, or computer or computer-generated image or picture, whether made or produced by electronic, mechanical, or other means, of sexually explicit conduct, where such visual depiction or representation has been created, adapted, or modified to appear that an identifiable minor is engaging in sexual conduct or sexually explicit activity or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity.
SECTION 2. Section 16-15-395 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 16-15-395. (A) An individual commits the offense of first degree sexual exploitation of a minor if, knowing the character or content of the material or performance, he:
(1) uses, employs, induces, coerces, encourages, or facilitates a minor to engage in or assist others to engage in sexual activity or appear in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation for a live performance or for the purpose of producing material that contains a visual representation depicting this activity or a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation;
(2) permits a minor under his custody or control to engage in sexual activity or appear in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation for a live performance or for the purpose of producing material that contains a visual representation depicting this activity or a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation;
(3) transports or finances the transportation of a minor through or across this State with the intent that the minor engage in sexual activity or appear in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation for a live performance or for the purpose of producing material that contains a visual representation depicting this activity or a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation; or (4) records, photographs, films, develops, duplicates, produces, or creates a digital electronic file for sale or pecuniary gain material that contains a visual representation depicting a minor or a morphed image of an identifiable minor engaged in sexual activity or a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation.
(B) In a prosecution pursuant to this section, the trier of fact may infer that a participant in a sexual activity or a state of sexually explicit nudity depicted in material as a minor through its title, text, visual representations, or otherwise, is a minor.
(C) Mistake of age is not a defense to a prosecution pursuant to this section.
(D) A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned for not less than three years nor more than twenty years. No part of the minimum sentence of imprisonment may be suspended nor is the individual convicted eligible for parole until he has served the minimum term of imprisonment. Sentences imposed pursuant to this section must run consecutively with and commence at the expiration of another sentence being served by the person sentenced.
(E) The offense is a misdemeanor to be heard by the family court if the person charged under the provisions of subsection (A)(4) is a minor and the offense is the minor's first offense related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor. The family court may order behavioral health counseling from an appropriate agency or provider, as a condition of adjudicating a minor.
SECTION 3. Section 16-15-405 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 16-15-405. (A) An individual commits the offense of second degree sexual exploitation of a minor if, knowing the character or content of the material, he:
(1) records, photographs, films, develops, duplicates, produces, or creates digital electronic file material that contains a visual representation of a minor or a morphed image of an identifiable minor engaged in sexual activity or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation; or
(2) distributes, transports, exhibits, receives, sells, purchases, exchanges, or solicits material that contains a visual representation of a minor or a morphed image of an identifiable minor engaged in sexual activity or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation.
(B) In a prosecution pursuant to this section, the trier of fact may infer that a participant in sexual activity or a state of sexually explicit nudity depicted in material as a minor through its title, text, visual representations, or otherwise, is a minor. (C) Mistake of age is not a defense to a prosecution pursuant to this section.
(D) A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not less than two years nor more than ten years. No part of the minimum sentence may be suspended nor is the individual convicted eligible for parole until he has served the minimum sentence.
(E) The offense is a misdemeanor to be heard by the family court if the person charged under the provisions of subsection (A) is a minor and the offense is the minor's first charge related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor. The family court may order behavioral health counseling from an appropriate agency or provider, as a condition of adjudicating a minor.
SECTION 4. Section 16-15-410 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 16-15-410. (A) An individual commits the offense of third degree sexual exploitation of a minor if, knowing the character or content of the material, he possesses material that contains a visual representation of a minor or a morphed image of an identifiable minor engaging in sexual activity or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation.
(B) In a prosecution pursuant to this section, the trier of fact may infer that a participant in sexual activity or a state of sexually explicit nudity depicted as a minor through its title, text, visual representation, or otherwise, is a minor.
(C) A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not more than ten years.
(D) This section does not apply to an employee of a law enforcement agency, including the State Law Enforcement Division, a prosecuting agency, including the South Carolina Attorney General's Office, or the South Carolina Department of Corrections who, while acting within the employee's official capacity in the course of an investigation or criminal proceeding, is in possession of material that contains a visual representation of a minor engaging in sexual activity or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation. The employee's official capacity in the course of such investigation or criminal proceeding includes making material available for inspection to the defendant's counsel in response to discovery requests.
(E) The offense is a misdemeanor to be heard by the family court if the person charged under the provisions of subsection (A) is a minor and the offense is the minor's first charge related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor. The family court may order behavioral health counseling from an appropriate agency or provider, as a condition of adjudicating a minor.
SECTION 5. Article 3, Chapter 15, Title 16 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 16-15-412. Any warrant for arrest for an alleged crime or offense that concerns a morphed image or an identifiable minor under Section 16-15-395, first degree sexual exploitation of a minor; Section 16-15-405, second degree sexual exploitation of a minor; or, Section 16-15-410, third degree sexual exploitation of a minor may only be issued upon:
(1) a return of a "true bill" of an indictment by the state grand jury, or
(2) a finding of probable cause following an investigation conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in conjunction with the Attorney General's office.
SECTION 6. Section 23-3-430(C)(1) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(C)(1) For purposes of this article, a person who has been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any of the following offenses shall be referred to as a Tier I offender:
(a) criminal sexual conduct in the third degree (Section 16-3-654);
(b) kidnapping (Section 16-3-910) of a person eighteen years of age or older except when the court makes a finding on the record that the offense did not include a criminal sexual offense or an attempted criminal sexual offense;
(c) incest (Section 16-15-20);
(d) buggery (Section 16-15-120);
(e) peeping, voyeurism, or aggravated voyeurism (Section 16-17-470);
(f) a person, regardless of age, who has been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere in this State, or who has been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere in a comparable court in the United States, or who has been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere in the United States federal courts of indecent exposure or of a similar offense in other jurisdictions is required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article if the court makes a specific finding on the record that, based on the circumstances of the case, the convicted person should register as a sex offender; (g) sexual intercourse with a patient or trainee (Section 44-23-1150);
(h) administering, distributing, dispensing, delivering, or aiding, abetting, attempting, or conspiring to administer, distribute, dispense, or deliver a controlled substance or gamma hydroxy butyrate to an individual with the intent to commit a crime listed in Section 44-53-370(f), except petit larceny or grand larceny;
(i) any other offense as described in Section 23-3-430(D), or;
(j) any other offense required by Title I of the federal Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 (Pub. L. 109-248), the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).;
(k) sexual exploitation of a minor, first degree (Section 16-15-395), provided the offense is related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor. If the offender is under eighteen years of age and the offense is related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor, then the adjudicated minor is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article;
(l) sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (Section 16-15-405), provided the offense is related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor. If the offender is under eighteen years of age and the offense is related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor, then the adjudicated minor is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article; or
(m) sexual exploitation of a minor, third degree (Section 16-15-410); provided the offense is related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor. If the offender is under eighteen years of age and the offense is related to a morphed image of an identifiable minor, then the adjudicated minor is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article.
SECTION 7. Section 23-3-430(C)(2) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(C)(2) For purposes of this article, a person who has been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any of the following offenses shall be referred to as a Tier II offender:
(a) criminal sexual conduct in the second degree (Section 16-3-653);
(b) engaging a child for sexual performance (Section 16-3-810);
(c) producing, directing, or promoting sexual performance by a child (Section 16-3-820); (d) trafficking in persons (Section 16-3-2020) except when the court makes a finding on the record that the offense did not include a criminal sexual offense or an attempted criminal sexual offense;
(e) criminal sexual conduct with minors, second degree (Section 16-3-655(B)). If evidence is presented at the criminal proceeding, or in any court of competent jurisdiction, and the court makes a specific finding on the record that the conviction obtained for this offense resulted from consensual sexual conduct, as contained in Section 16-3-655(B)(2), provided the offender is eighteen years of age or less, or consensual sexual conduct between persons under sixteen years of age, the convicted person is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article;
(f) criminal sexual conduct with minors, third degree (Section 16-3-655(C)). If evidence is presented at the criminal proceeding, or in any court of competent jurisdiction, and the court makes a specific finding on the record that the conviction obtained for this offense resulted from consensual sexual conduct, as contained in Section 16-3-655(B)(2), provided the offender is eighteen years of age or less, or consensual sexual conduct between persons under sixteen years of age, the convicted person is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article;
(g) criminal solicitation of a minor if the purpose or intent of the solicitation or attempted solicitation was to:
(i) persuade, induce, entice, or coerce the person solicited to engage or participate in sexual activity as defined in Section 16-15-375(5);
(ii) perform a sexual activity in the presence of the person solicited (Section 16-15-342); or
(h) violations of Article 3, Chapter 15, Title 16 involving a minor.;
(i) sexual exploitation of a minor, first degree (Section 16-15-395), except as otherwise provided in this article;
(j) sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (Section 16-15-405), except as otherwise provided in this article; or
(k) sexual exploitation of a minor, third degree (Section 16-15-410), except as otherwise provided in this article.
SECTION 8. Section 23-3-462(A) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(A) After successful completion of the requirements of this section, an offender may apply to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for the termination of the requirements of registration pursuant to this article. If it is determined that the offender has met the requirements of this section, SLED shall remove the offender's name and identifying information from the sex offender registry and shall notify the offender within one hundred twenty days that the offender has been relieved of the registration requirements of this article.
(1) An offender may file a request for termination of the requirement of registration with SLED, in a form and process established by the agency:
(a) afterhaving been registered for at least fifteen yearsif the offender was required to register based on an adjudication of delinquency or the offender was required to register as a Tier I offender;
(b) after having been registered for at least twenty-five yearsif the offender was convicted as an adult, and was required to register as a Tier II offender;
(c) an offender who was required to register as an offender because of a conviction in another state or because of a federal conviction may apply to be removed from the requirements of the registry if he is eligible to be removed under the laws of the jurisdiction where the conviction occurred.
(1) A Tier I offender may file a request for termination of the requirement of registration with SLED in a form and process established by the agency, if the person:
(a) has been registered for at least fifteen years; or
(b) has been discharged from incarceration without supervision for at least fifteen years for the charge requiring registration; or
(c) has had at least fifteen years pass since the termination of active supervision of probation, parole, or any other alternative to incarceration for the charge requiring registration; or
(d) is a Tier I offender who was required to register as an offender because of a conviction in another state or because of a federal conviction and who is eligible to be removed under the laws of the jurisdiction where the conviction occurred.
(2) A Tier II offender may file a request for termination of the requirement of registration with SLED in a form and process established by the agency, if the person:
(a) has been registered for at least twenty-five years;
(b) has been discharged from incarceration without supervision for at least twenty-five years for the charge requiring registration;
(c) has had at least twenty-five years pass since the termination of active supervision of probation, parole, or any other alternative to incarceration for the charge requiring registration; or (d) is a Tier II offender who was required to register as an offender because of a conviction in another state or because of a federal conviction and who is eligible to be removed under the law of the jurisdiction where the conviction occurred.
(2)(3) An offender who was convicted as an adult, and who is required to register as a Tier III offender may not file a request for termination of registration with SLED nor shall any such request be granted pursuant to this subsection.
(3)(4) The requesting offender must have successfully completed all sex offender treatment programs that have been required.
(4)(5) The requesting offender must not have been convicted of failure to register within the previous ten years.
(5)(6) The offender must not have been convicted of any additional sexual offense or violent sexual offense after being placed on the registry.
(6)(7) A filing fee, as set by SLED but not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars, shall be paid to file the request for termination of registration requirements. The initial application may be filed with SLED and the administrative review may begin one hundred twenty days prior to the date specified in subsection (A)(1); however, any removal may not occur prior to the date specified.
SECTION 9. If any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words hereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.
SECTION 10. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Amend title to conform.
/s/Sen. Hutto /s/Rep. T.Moore /s/Senator Kimbrell /s/Rep. Wetmore /s/Senator Adams /s/Rep. McCabe On On part of the House.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Anderson Bailey Ballentine Bamberg Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Huff J. E. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss B. Newton W. Newton Oremus Pace Pedalino Pope Rankin Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
I was temporarily out of the Chamber in a leadership meeting during the vote on S. 29 (Word version). If I had been present, I would have voted to adopt the Conference Report.
Rep. Daniel Gibson
I was temporarily out of the Chamber in a leadership meeting during the vote on S. 29 (Word version). If I had been present, I would have voted to adopt the Conference Report.
Rep. John McCravy
Rep. B. NEWTON moved that the House recur to the morning hour, which was agreed to.
The following Bills were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:
H. 4557 (Word version) -- Rep. Cobb-Hunter: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 63 TO TITLE 48 ENTITLED "ODOR MANAGEMENT" SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, ESTABLISH A PROCESS FOR VERIFIABLE ODOR COMPLAINTS, REQUIRE THE BUREAU CHIEF OF THE BUREAU OF AIR QUALITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES TO INVESTIGATE COMPLAINTS IF CERTAIN CONDITIONS ARE MET, TO REQUIRE A FACILITY OWNER TO DEVELOP AND SUBMIT AN ODOR MANAGEMENT PLAN, WHEN REQUIRED, AND TO PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS AND PENALTIES.
Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs
H. 4558 (Word version) -- Reps. Chapman, Guffey, Sessions, Martin, Erickson, Pope, Bradley, Caskey, T. Moore, Lawson, Wooten, M. M. Smith, Sanders, B. L. Cox, Brewer, Robbins, Yow, Guest, Mitchell, Haddon, Vaughan, Schuessler, Brittain and Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SEXUAL OFFENDER ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-150 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MUST PLACE A SEXUAL OFFENDER IDENTIFIER ON THE DRIVERS' LICENSES OR SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS OF CERTAIN SEX OFFENDERS, TO PROVIDE A FEE, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
H. 4559 (Word version) -- Reps. Burns and Frank: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-9-70, RELATING TO POWERS OF COUNTY COUNCILS WITH REGARD TO PUBLIC SCHOOL EDUCATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO CALCULATE, LEVY, AND COLLECT THE TAX RELATED TO THE PROPERLY ESTABLISHED MILLAGE.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means
H. 4560 (Word version) -- Rep. Pace: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-535, RELATING TO LIMITATION ON PLACES OF RESIDENCE OF CERTAIN SEX OFFENDERS, EXCEPTIONS, VIOLATIONS, LOCAL GOVERNMENT ORDINANCES, AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS REQUIRED TO PROVIDE CERTAIN INFORMATION, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "WITHIN ONE THOUSAND FEET" TO INCLUDE HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION-OWNED AND PROPERTY ASSOCIATION-OWNED AMENITY CENTERS, PARKS, AND PLAYGROUNDS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A SEX OFFENDER MAY NOT RESIDE WITHIN ONE THOUSAND FEET OF THESE FACILITIES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4561 (Word version) -- Rep. Gilreath: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-200 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUMS ON PROPOSALS BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS OR SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, INCUR GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT OR LEVY TAXES OR FEES MUST BE HELD AT THE TIME OF STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTIONS IN NOVEMBER OF EVEN-NUMBERED YEARS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 4-10-10, RELATING TO DEFINITION OF "GENERAL ELECTION"
FOR PURPOSES OF LOCAL SALES AND USE TAX REFERENDUMS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 4562 (Word version) -- Reps. Sessions, Davis, Brewer, Wooten, Ligon and M. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "PATIENTS' RIGHT TO TRANSPARENCY AND TIMELY ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE SERVICES ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 116 TO TITLE 44 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; TO EXCLUDE CERTAIN HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS FROM PREAUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS WHO MEET AN EIGHTY PERCENT THRESHOLD OF PREAUTHORIZATION REQUESTS FOR MEDICATIONS AND TREATMENTS DURING A PARTICULAR TIME PERIOD; TO REQUIRE A FAIR AND TRANSPARENT PRIOR AUTHORIZATION PROCESS FOR MEDICATIONS AND TREATMENTS; TO ESTABLISH TIMELINES FOR PREAUTHORIZATION DECISIONS; TO PROHIBIT ONGOING PRIOR AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS FOR PATIENTS LIVING WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS AFTER PRIOR AUTHORIZATION HAS BEEN PROVIDED UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; TO PROHIBIT INSURANCE COMPANIES FROM SWITCHING PHARMACEUTICALS DURING A POLICY YEAR; TO ALLOW FOR STEP THERAPY EXCEPTIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT ONCE PRIOR AUTHORIZATION IS GRANTED, HEALTH CARRIERS MUST PAY FOR THE SERVICE WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO REQUIRE CONTINUITY OF CARE WHEN A PATIENT CHANGES INSURANCE POLICIES; TO REQUIRE CERTAIN FILINGS FOR INSURANCE COMPANIES FOR TRANSPARENCY CONCERNING APPROVAL AND DENIAL RATES; AND TO PROVIDE FOR ENFORCEMENT OF THE CHAPTER.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., May 08, 2025
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:
That the same do pass with the following amendments:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. Article 3, Chapter 15, Title 16 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 16-15-390. (A) As used in this section:
(1) "Obscene" has the same meaning as Section 16-15-305.
(2) "Visual depiction or representation" means and includes undeveloped film and videotape, and data stored on a computer disk or by electronic means that is capable of conversion into a visual image, and also includes any photograph, film, video, picture, digital image or picture, computer image or picture, or computer-generated image or picture, whether made or produced by electronic, mechanical, or other means.
(B) Any person who knowingly produces, distributes, solicits, or possesses with intent to distribute, a visual depiction or representation that depicts a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, sexually explicit activity, or sexually explicit nudity, and is obscene, or attempts or conspires to do so, is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned no more than ten years. (C) Any person who knowingly possesses a visual depiction or representation that depicts a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, sexually explicit activity, or sexually explicit nudity, and is obscene, or attempts or conspires to do so is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned no more than ten years.
(D) The offense is a misdemeanor to be heard by the family court if the person charged under this section is a minor, and the minor has no prior adjudication under this section or for any offense for which a person may be included in the sex offender registry. The family court may order behavioral health counseling from an appropriate agency or provider, as a condition of adjudicating a minor.
(E) It is not a required element of any offense under this section that the minor depicted actually exists.
(F)(1) This section does not apply to an employee of a law enforcement agency, including the State Law Enforcement Division, a prosecuting agency, including the South Carolina Attorney General's Office or the South Carolina Department of Corrections, who, while acting within the employee's official capacity in the course of an investigation or criminal proceeding, is in possession of material that contains a visual representation of a minor engaging in sexual activity or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation. An employee's official capacity in the course of such investigation or criminal proceeding includes making materials available for inspection to the defendant's counsel in response to discovery requests.
(2) This section does not apply to a provider of a telecommunications service or an information service, as those terms are defined in 47 U.S.C. Section 153, for content provided by another person.
(G) Any warrant for arrest for an alleged crime or offense under this section may only be issued upon:
(1) a return of a "true bill" of an indictment by the state grand jury, or
(2) a finding of probable cause following an investigation conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in conjunction with the Attorney General's office.
SECTION 2. Section 23-3-430(C) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(C)(1) For purposes of this article, a person who has been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any of the following offenses shall be referred to as a Tier I offender:
(a) criminal sexual conduct in the third degree (Section 16-3-654); (b) kidnapping (Section 16-3-910) of a person eighteen years of age or older except when the court makes a finding on the record that the offense did not include a criminal sexual offense or an attempted criminal sexual offense;
(c) incest (Section 16-15-20);
(d) buggery (Section 16-15-120);
(e) peeping, voyeurism, or aggravated voyeurism (Section 16-17-470);
(f) a person, regardless of age, who has been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere in this State, or who has been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere in a comparable court in the United States, or who has been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere in the United States federal courts of indecent exposure or of a similar offense in other jurisdictions is required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article if the court makes a specific finding on the record that, based on the circumstances of the case, the convicted person should register as a sex offender;
(g) sexual intercourse with a patient or trainee (Section 44-23-1150);
(h) administering, distributing, dispensing, delivering, or aiding, abetting, attempting, or conspiring to administer, distribute, dispense, or deliver a controlled substance or gamma hydroxy butyrate to an individual with the intent to commit a crime listed in Section 44-53-370(f), except petit larceny or grand larceny;
(i) any other offense as described in Section 23-3-430(D), or;
(j) any other offense required by Title I of the federal Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 (Pub. L. 109-248), the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).; or
(k) obscene visual representation of child sexual abuse (Section 16-15-390). If the person is under eighteen years of age and was adjudicated in the family court, then the adjudicated minor is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article.
(2) For purposes of this article, a person who has been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any of the following offenses shall be referred to as a Tier II offender:
(a) criminal sexual conduct in the second degree (Section 16-3-653);
(b) engaging a child for sexual performance (Section 16-3-810);
(c) producing, directing, or promoting sexual performance by a child (Section 16-3-820); (d) trafficking in persons (Section 16-3-2020) except when the court makes a finding on the record that the offense did not include a criminal sexual offense or an attempted criminal sexual offense;
(e) criminal sexual conduct with minors, second degree (Section 16-3-655(B)). If evidence is presented at the criminal proceeding, or in any court of competent jurisdiction, and the court makes a specific finding on the record that the conviction obtained for this offense resulted from consensual sexual conduct, as contained in Section 16-3-655(B)(2), provided the offender is eighteen years of age or less, or consensual sexual conduct between persons under sixteen years of age, the convicted person is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article;
(f) criminal sexual conduct with minors, third degree (Section 16-3-655(C)). If evidence is presented at the criminal proceeding, or in any court of competent jurisdiction, and the court makes a specific finding on the record that the conviction obtained for this offense resulted from consensual sexual conduct, as contained in Section 16-3-655(B)(2), provided the offender is eighteen years of age or less, or consensual sexual conduct between persons under sixteen years of age, the convicted person is not an offender and is not required to register pursuant to the provisions of this article;
(g) criminal solicitation of a minor if the purpose or intent of the solicitation or attempted solicitation was to:
(i) persuade, induce, entice, or coerce the person solicited to engage or participate in sexual activity as defined in Section 16-15-375(5);
(ii) perform a sexual activity in the presence of the person solicited (Section 16-15-342); or
(h) violations of Article 3, Chapter 15, Title 16 involving a minor, except as otherwise provided in this article.
(3) For purposes of this article, a person who has been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any of the following offenses shall be referred to as a Tier III offender:
(a) criminal sexual conduct in the first degree (Section 16-3-652);
(b) criminal sexual conduct with minors, first degree (Section 16-3-655(A));
(c) criminal sexual conduct: assaults with intent to commit (Section 16-3-656);
(d) kidnapping (Section 16-3-910) of a person under eighteen years of age except when the offense is committed by a parent;
(e) criminal sexual conduct when the victim is a spouse (Section 16-3-658);
(f) sexual battery of a spouse (Section 16-3-615); or
(g) any offense listed or described in this section committed after the offender becomes a Tier I or Tier II offender.
SECTION 3. Section 23-3-462(A) of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
(A) After successful completion of the requirements of this section, an offender may apply to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for the termination of the requirements of registration pursuant to this article. If it is determined that the offender has met the requirements of this section, SLED shall remove the offender's name and identifying information from the sex offender registry and shall notify the offender within one hundred twenty days that the offender has been relieved of the registration requirements of this article.
(1) An offender may file a request for termination of the requirement of registration with SLED, in a form and process established by the agency:
(a) after having been registered for at least fifteen years if the offender was required to register based on an adjudication of delinquency or the offender was required to register as a Tier I offender;
(b) after having been registered for at least twenty-five years, if the offender was convicted as an adult, and was required to register as a Tier II offender;
(1) A Tier I offender may file a request for termination of the requirement of registration with SLED in a form and process established by the agency, if the person:
(a) has been registered for at least fifteen years; or
(b) has been discharged from incarceration without supervision for at least fifteen years for the charge requiring registration; or
(c) has had at least fifteen years pass since the termination of active supervision of probation, parole, or any other alternative to incarceration for the charge requiring registration; or
(c) (d) an is a Tier I offender who was required to register as an offender because of a conviction in another state or because of a federal conviction and who may apply to be removed from the requirements of the registry if he is eligible to be removed under the laws of the jurisdiction where the conviction occurred.
(2) A Tier II offender may file a request for termination of the requirement of registration with SLED in a form and process established by the agency, if the person:
(a) has been registered for at least twenty-five years;
(b) has been discharged from incarceration without supervision for at least twenty-five years for the charge requiring registration; (c) has had at least twenty-five years pass since the termination of active supervision of probation, parole, or any other alternative to incarceration for the charge requiring registration; or
(d) is a Tier II offender who was required to register as an offender because of a conviction in another state or because of a federal conviction and who is eligible to be removed under the laws of the jurisdiction where the conviction occurred.
(2)(3) An offender who was convicted as an adult, and who is required to register as a Tier III offender may not file a request for termination of registration with SLED nor shall any such request be granted pursuant to this subsection.
(3)(4) The requesting offender must have successfully completed all sex offender treatment programs that have been required.
(4)(5) The requesting offender must not have been convicted of failure to register within the previous ten years.
(5)(6) The offender must not have been convicted of any additional sexual offense or violent sexual offense after being placed on the registry.
(6)(7) A filing fee, as set by SLED but not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars, shall be paid to file the request for termination of registration requirements. The initial application may be filed with SLED and the administrative review may begin one hundred twenty days prior to the date specified in subsection (A)(1); however, any removal may not occur prior to the date specified.
SECTION 4. The State Department of Education, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Attorney General's Office, as appropriate, shall develop and implement a policy to educate and notify students of the provision of this act. The State Department of Education must file a report as to the status of the adoption and implementation of the education policies under this act to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representative, by July 1, 2026.
SECTION 5. If any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words hereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.
SECTION 6. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Amend title to conform.
/s/Sen. Hutto /s/Rep. T. Moore /s/Senator Kimbrell /s/Rep. Wetmore /s/Senator Adams /s/Rep. McCabe On part of the Senate. On part of the House.
Rep. T. MOORE explained the Conference Report.
The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:
Those who voted in the affirmative are:
Alexander Anderson Atkinson Bailey Ballentine Bannister Bauer Beach Bernstein Bowers Bradley Brewer Brittain Burns Calhoon Caskey Chapman Chumley Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Collins B. L. Cox Crawford Cromer Davis Dillard Duncan Edgerton Erickson Forrest Frank Gagnon Garvin Gibson Gilliam Gilliard Gilreath Govan Grant Guest Guffey Haddon Hager Hartnett Hartz Hayes Henderson-Myers Herbkersman Hiott Hixon Holman Hosey Huff J. E. Johnson J. L. Johnson Jones Jordan Kilmartin King Kirby Landing Lawson Ligon Long Luck Magnuson Martin May McCabe McCravy McDaniel Mitchell Montgomery T. Moore Morgan Moss Neese B. Newton Oremus Pedalino Pope Rankin Reese Rivers Robbins Sanders Schuessler G. M. Smith M. M. Smith Spann-Wilder Stavrinakis Taylor Teeple Terribile Vaughan Waters Weeks Wetmore White Whitmire Wickensimer Williams Willis Wooten Yow
Those who voted in the negative are:
Rutherford
The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on S. 29 (Word version):
S. 29 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Cromer, Verdin and Kennedy: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-375, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO THE DISSEMINATION OF HARMFUL MATERIAL TO MINORS, SO AS TO DEFINE IDENTIFIABLE MINOR AND MORPHED IMAGE AS AN OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN AS AN OFFENS; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C. Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Conference on the following Bill, having been adopted by both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for ratification:
S. 127 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Peeler: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-11-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CATAWBA NATION WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF EMPLOYER; AND BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-43 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CATAWBA NATION IS ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION TO THE POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROCESS FOR ADMISSION.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. OREMUS a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.
The House stood at ease subject to the call of the Chair.
At 4:05 p.m. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C. Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Free Conference on the following Bill, having been adopted by both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for ratification:
S. 156 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Garrett, Stubbs, Adams, Bennett, Kimbrell, Young, Turner, Peeler and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-80 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE, TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION, AND TO PROHIBIT AN AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-1-10, RELATING TO A LIST OF EXCEPTIONS FOR FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS, SO AS TO ADD FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on S. 28 (Word version):
S. 28 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Sutton, Cromer, Verdin, Kennedy, Climer and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-390 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE, DEFINE TERMS, AND ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO ADD THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.
The Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act and that it be enrolled for ratification.
The following was received:
Columbia, S.C., Thursday, May 8
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has enrolled S. 210 (Word version) after receiving a message that the House receded from its amendments.
S. 210 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES AND TO ADD TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-20, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES, SO AS TO AMEND MEETING REQUIREMENTS AND OUTLINE COMPONENTS OF A PLAN OF OPERATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-40, RELATING TO CAPITALIZATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO GIVE DISCRETION TO THE DIRECTOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-60, RELATING TO INCORPORATION OPTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-70, RELATING TO REPORTS, SO AS TO CHANGE A DEADLINE AND INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-75, RELATING TO DISCOUNTING OF LOSS AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSE RESERVES, SO AS TO ALLOW A SPONSORED CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY TO FILE ONE ACTUARIAL OPINION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-80, RELATING TO INSPECTIONS AND EXAMINATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE THE EXAMINATION OF SOME CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES OPTIONAL AND TO INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-140, RELATING TO TAX PAYMENTS, SO AS TO AMEND REQUIRED TAX PAYMENTS FOR A SPONSORED CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-165, RELATING TO DECLARATION OF INACTIVITY, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE SUBMISSION OF A WRITTEN APPROVAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-175, RELATING TO THE CAPTIVE INSURANCE REGULATORY AND SUPERVISION FUND CREATED, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ALLOWED TRANSFER OF COLLECTED TAXES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-215, RELATING TO PROTECTED CELLS, SO AS TO REMOVE LICENSING REQUIREMENTS.
Very Respectfully,
President
Received as information.
Rep. WICKENSIMER moved that the House do now adjourn, pending receipt of messages from the Senate and pursuant to the provisions of S. 292 (Word version), the Sine Die Resolution, which was agreed to.
The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:
H. 4242 (Word version) -- Rep. Chumley: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 417 IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY FROM THE ENOREE RIVER TO SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 101 "OLD ANTIOCH CHURCH WAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
H. 4215 (Word version) -- Reps. Collins, Bowers, Hiott, Cromer, White, Kilmartin, Gilreath and Beach: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE BRIDGE OVER TWELVE MILE RIVER ON SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 183 IN PICKENS COUNTY "GENERAL ANDREW PICKENS BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
H. 4381 (Word version) -- Reps. Atkinson and Kirby: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME NESMITH CORNER ROAD IN THE COMMUNITY OF NESMITH IN WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY "COLUMBUS PRESSLEY AND CLAUDIE E. PRESSLEY MEMORIAL ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS. H. 4415 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Waters, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE SATURDAY, JUNE 14, 2025, AS UNITED STATES ARMY DAY IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL CITIZENS OF THIS GREAT STATE TO REFLECT UPON THE PROFOUND SENSE OF DUTY AND PATRIOTISM EXHIBITED BY THE SOLDIERS OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY.
H. 4416 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF OLD STAGECOACH ROAD IN THE TOWN OF BETHUNE IN KERSHAW COUNTY FROM MCLAUGHLIN ROAD TO STEPHENS LANE "CHARLIE AND PAT STEPHENS INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
H. 4429 (Word version) -- Rep. Burns: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 276 IN GREENVILLE COUNTY AT 35º5'30" N BY 82º36'53" W CONTAINING THE WORDS "ALAMO COVE" TO HONOR THE FIREFIGHTERS WHO COURAGEOUSLY FOUGHT TO CONTAIN AND EXTINGUISH THE PERSIMMON RIDGE FIRE. H. 4184 (Word version) -- Rep. Teeple: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF INDIGO HILL ROAD IN CHARLESTON COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 174 TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH CLARK ROAD "GENO MIDDLETON ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
H. 4120 (Word version) -- Rep. Gilliam: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION WHERE SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 18 MEETS SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 9 IN UNION COUNTY "US AIR FORCE STAFF SERGEANT KENNETH JASON WILBURN MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
H. 3008 (Word version) -- Reps. Forrest, G. M. Smith, W. Newton, Wooten, Pope, Pedalino, Taylor, Hixon, Davis, M. M. Smith, Teeple, Robbins, Mitchell, Yow, Ligon, J. L. Johnson and Willis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO APPLY FOR A CONVENTION UNDER ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION IN ORDER TO PROPOSE A CONGRESSIONAL TERM LIMITS AMENDMENT.
Pursuant to an invitation the Honorable Speaker and House of Representatives appeared in the Senate Chamber on May 08, 2025, at 1:25 p.m. and the following Acts and Joint Resolutions were ratified:
(R. 46, S. 77 (Word version)) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms and Zell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-85 SO AS TO PROMOTE PUBLIC ACCESS TO SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS BY REQUIRING SCHOOL BOARDS TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES THAT PROVIDE LIVESTREAM OR ALTERNATE ELECTRONIC MEANS TRANSMISSION OF SUCH MEETINGS, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION; AND TO REQUIRE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT MUST BE IMPLEMENTED BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2026.
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(R. 47, S. 78 (Word version)) -- Senators Hembree, Young, Zell and Devine: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-25-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL AWARD YEARS OF EXPERIENCE CREDIT FOR CERTAIN RELEVANT NON-TEACHING OCCUPATIONAL EXPERIENCE TO CERTIFICATES OF EDUCATORS WHO SATISFY CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE SUCH EXPERIENCE CREDIT MAY BE AWARDED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADVANCEMENT ON THE TEACHER SALARY SCHEDULE, TO PROVIDE OTHER EXISTING CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS REMAIN UNCHANGED BY THIS ACT; AND TO PROVIDE DIRECTIVES TO THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION CONCERNING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS ACT.
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(R. 48, S. 79 (Word version)) -- Senators Hembree and Zell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1115 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A FIVE-YEAR PILOT PROGRAM TO PERMIT PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO HIRE NONCERTIFIED TEACHERS IN A RATIO UP TO TEN PERCENT OF THE ENTIRE TEACHING STAFF OF THE DISTRICT, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED PARTICIPATION AND IMPLEMENTATION REQUIREMENTS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-90 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE AGENCY REQUESTS OF CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECKS.
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(R. 49, S. 89 (Word version)) -- Senator Young: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-100, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY BASE TASK FORCE, SO AS TO RENAME THE TASK FORCE THE SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY AFFAIRS ADVISORY COUNCIL, TO REVISE THE COUNCIL'S MISSON, TO INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP ON THE COUNCIL, TO MANDATE THAT THE COUNCIL MEETS AT LEAST ONE TIME EACH CALENDAR YEAR, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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(R. 50, S. 101 (Word version)) -- Senator Gambrell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-80-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA FIREFIGHTERS EMPLOYMENT AND REGISTRATION ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "FIRE DEPARTMENT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-80-40, RELATING TO FIREFIGHTER REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CLARIFICATION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-80-50, RELATING TO FIREFIGHTER REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A DRIVER'S LICENSE REQUIRED FOR DOCUMENTATION MUST BE ISSUED BY THIS STATE.
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(R. 51, S. 171 (Word version)) -- Senators Gambrell and Garrett: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 75, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR WASTE TIRE MANIFESTS AND RELATED PROVISIONS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 75, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE INSTALLATION OF UNSAFE USED TIRES, AND RELATED PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-96-170, RELATING TO WASTE TIRES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY MAY CHARGE UP TO FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS AS A TIPPING FEE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-96-170, RELATING TO WASTE TIRES, SO AS TO AMEND THE COLLECTION OF THE FEE TO INCLUDE USED TIRES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICATION OF THE WASTE TIRE FEE AND RELATED WASTE TIRE FUNDS, TO REMOVE THE REBATE PROVISIONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A STATEWIDE MARKET INFRASTRUCTURE FOR TIRE-DERIVED PRODUCTS; AND TO DIRECT THE CODE COMMISSIONER TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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(R. 52, S. 176 (Word version)) -- Senator Climer: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-30, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR USE OF PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS FOR CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS AND PUBLIC ACCOUNTS, SO AS TO APPLY THESE REQUIREMENTS TO USAGES IN ELECTRONIC FILES AND METADATA; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-35, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, SO AS TO REVISE THE EDUCATIONAL AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING THE UNIFORM CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT EXAM REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-40, RELATING TO ENTITIES REQUIRED TO REGISTER WITH THE BOARD TO PRACTICE AS CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRMS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SUCH REGISTRATION OF FIRMS THAT PERFORM COMPILATION SERVICES, AND TO PROVIDE OWNERSHIP OF SUCH FIRMS MAY BE HELD THROUGH A REVOCABLE GRANTOR TRUST; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-70, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO ADD REVIEW AND PROVIDE INPUT ON PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE CHANGES RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTING AS A POWER OF THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-80, RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS OF COMPLAINTS OR OTHER INFORMATION SUGGESTING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE INSPECTOR-INVESTIGATORS MUST HAVE BEEN LICENSED AS CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS FOR AT LEAST THE PREVIOUS FIVE YEARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-240, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS LICENSED IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS TO OBTAIN LICENSURE BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE RECIPROCITY LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-245, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS LICENSED IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS TO PRACTICE IN THIS STATE WITHOUT LICENSURE BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 40-2-20(18) RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, SECTION 40-2-35(H) RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY, AND SECTION 40-2-35(I) RELATING TO RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY.
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(R. 53, S. 221 (Word version)) -- Senator Ott: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA KRATOM CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 20 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION OF THE SALE OF KRATOM PRODUCTS BY RETAILERS AND PROCESSORS AND TO CREATE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE ARTICLE.
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(R. 54, S. 269 (Word version)) -- Senators Turner, Elliott and Zell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-275 SO AS TO PROVIDE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS WITH MORE THAN FIFTEEN THOUSAND STUDENTS MAY USE SECURITY PERSONNEL LICENSED AS A PROPRIETARY SECURITY BUSINESS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-18-60, RELATING TO PROPRIETARY SECURITY BUSINESS LICENSE REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS, SO AS TO ADD PROVISIONS CONCERNING PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND CHARTER SCHOOLS APPLYING FOR LICENSURE, TO PROVIDE THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION SHALL DEVELOP RELATED STANDARDS, GUIDELINES, AND APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-18-80, RELATING TO SECURITY OFFICER REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION SHALL IMPLEMENT CERTAIN RELATED TRAINING REQUIREMENTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-18-140, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS FROM THE APPLICABILITY OF CHAPTER 18, TITLE 40, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICABILITY OF THE CHAPTER TO PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS.
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(R. 55, S. 618 (Word version)) -- Senator Peeler: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 389 OF 1907, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS FOR THE CITY OF GAFFNEY, SO AS TO RESTATE THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS, TO ADD TWO ADDITIONAL MEMBERS, AND TO SPECIFY THE MANNER OF ELECTION AND OF ELECTIONS; AND TO REPEAL ACT 205 OF 1953 AND ACT 128 OF 1967 RELATED TO THE BOARD.
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(R. 56, H. 3058 (Word version)) -- Reps. Wooten, Pope, Spann-Wilder, McCravy, Taylor, Cobb-Hunter, Govan, Erickson, Bradley, Guffey, W. Newton, B. Newton and Willis: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-330 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS FOR THE OFFENSE OF UNAUTHORIZED DISCLOSURE OF INTIMATE IMAGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-332 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF UNAUTHORIZED DISCLOSURE OF INTIMATE IMAGES, TO PROVIDE GRADUATED PENALTIES, AND TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
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(R. 57, H. 3127 (Word version)) -- Reps. Robbins, Wooten, Lawson, Pope, Chapman, Pedalino, W. Newton, Sanders, Duncan, Hixon, Taylor, Gagnon, Oremus, Hartz, Davis, M.M. Smith, Vaughan, Williams, Erickson, Bradley, Cromer and Gilreath: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-750, RELATING TO FAILURE TO STOP MOTOR VEHICLES WHEN SIGNALED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES, SO AS TO REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR CERTAIN OFFENSES, TO CREATE AN ADDITIONAL FELONY OFFENSE WHEN A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER IS LED ON A HIGH-SPEED PURSUIT, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.
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(R. 58, H. 3175 (Word version)) -- Reps. Collins, Mitchell, Forrest and Calhoon: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-3-1230, RELATING TO SPECIFICATIONS OF LICENSE PLATES, THE PERIODIC ISSUANCE OF NEW PLATES, AND THE ISSUANCE OF REVALIDATION STICKERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES SHALL ISSUE LICENSE PLATES COMMEMORATING THE TWO HUNDRED FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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(R. 59, H. 3276 (Word version)) -- Reps. Pope, Robbins, Chapman, W. Newton, Taylor, Forrest, McGinnis, Calhoon, Bernstein, Wooten, Hart, Erickson, Bradley, Ligon, Anderson, Schuessler, Hixon, M.M. Smith and Hartnett: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HANDS-FREE AND DISTRACTED DRIVING ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-3890, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL USE OF WIRELESS ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES WHILE OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO DELETE CERTAIN TERMS AND THEIR DEFINITIONS, TO DEFINE THE TERM "MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICE," TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES MAY NOT BE USED WHILE OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE, TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING AND PROVIDE PENALTIES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISBURSEMENT OF FINES IMPOSED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION, TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES UPON WHICH THIS SECTION MAY BE ENFORCED, TO PROVIDE FOR THE SHARING OF CERTAIN INFORMATION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, AND TO PROVIDE THIS SECTION IS NOT SUBJECT TO PROVISIONS RELATED TO CITIZENS ARRESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-720, RELATING TO POINTS THAT MAY BE ASSESSED AGAINST A PERSON'S DRIVING RECORD FOR MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A SECOND OR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING IS A TWO-POINT VIOLATION; TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SHALL ERECT SIGNS ADVISING MOTORISTS OF THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT; TO PROVIDE ONLY WARNINGS MAY BE ISSUED FOR CERTAIN VIOLATIONS FOR A CERTAIN PERIOD; AND TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY SHALL FILE A REPORT WITH CERTAIN OFFICIALS CONTAINING INFORMATION ABOUT PERSONS STOPPED PURSUANT TO THIS ACT.
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(R. 60, H. 3309 (Word version)) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, Gatch, Herbkersman, Pope, B. Newton, Wooten, Robbins, Mitchell, Chapman, W. Newton, Taylor, Forrest, Hewitt, Kirby, Schuessler, Yow, Long, M.M. Smith, Hardee, Montgomery, Atkinson, Hixon, Ligon, Anderson, Weeks, Willis, Govan and Williams: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY SECURITY ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-140, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION'S POWERS TO REGULATE PUBLIC UTILITIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A SCHEDULE FOR CERTAIN TESTIMONY AND DISCOVERY IN CONTESTED PROCEEDINGS, TO PERMIT ELECTRICAL UTILITY CUSTOMERS TO ADDRESS THE COMMISSION AS PUBLIC WITNESSES, AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR AN INDEPENDENT THIRD-PARTY CONSULTANT HIRED BY THE COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-250, RELATING TO SERVICE OF ORDERS AND DECISIONS ON PARTIES, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-4-10, RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF AND ITS REPRESENTATION OF PUBLIC INTEREST BEFORE THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH ITS CONSIDERATIONS FOR PUBLIC INTEREST; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-150 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO PREPARE A COMPREHENSIVE STATE ENERGY ASSESSMENT AND ACTION PLAN AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS PLAN; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-195 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE DOMINION ENERGY, THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY, DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, AND DUKE ENERGY PROGRESS TO EVALUATE CERTAIN ELECTRICAL GENERATION FACILITIES AND PROVIDE FOR CONSIDERATIONS RELATED TO THESE FACILITIES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-205 SO AS TO PERMIT THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY TO JOINTLY OWN ONE OR MORE NATURAL GAS-FIRED GENERATION FACILITIES AND RELATED TRANSMISSION FACILITIES WITH DOMINION ENERGY SOUTH CAROLINA IN COLLETON COUNTY, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR JOINT OWNERSHIP; BY ADDING SECTION 6-29-1220 SO AS TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM PLANS IF A COUNTY DOES NOT HAVE RELATED RURAL ZONING OR ORDINANCES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS REQUIRING MORE THAN THIRTEEN ACRES OF LAND; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 9 OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 13, RELATING TO THE GOVERNOR'S NUCLEAR ADVISORY COUNCIL, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE COUNCIL IN THE SC NEXUS FOR ADVANCED RESILIENT ENERGY AT THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS DUTIES AND MEMBERSHIP, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE COUNCIL'S DIRECTOR; BY ADDING ARTICLE 24 TO CHAPTER 27, TITLE 58 SO AS TO ALLOW ELECTRIC UTILITIES TO REQUEST THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION ADJUST THEIR RATES ANNUALLY, ADJUST UTILITY RATES, ESTABLISH THE BASELINE RATE ORDER AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ADJUSTMENTS IN RATES, TO PROVIDE PROTECTIONS FOR CUSTOMERS, AND TO AUTHORIZE ADDITIONAL POSITIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-196 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE CONSIDERATION OF DEPLOYMENT OF FUSION ENERGY AND ADVANCED NUCLEAR FACILITIES AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-70 SO AS TO PERMIT THE EVALUATION OF SMALL MODULAR NUCLEAR FACILITIES IN THIS STATE AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR STATE AGENCY REVIEW OF ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT APPLICATIONS, TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS, TO PROVIDE A SUNSET PROVISION, AND TO DESIGNATE ALL SECTIONS CURRENTLY IN CHAPTER 37 AS ARTICLE 1, ENTITLED "PLANNING FOR ENERGY SUPPLY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-40-10, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR," SO AS TO ESTABLISH CHARACTERISTICS FOR A "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-30, RELATING TO VOLUNTARY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "ENERGY STORAGE FACILITIES"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-20, RELATING TO THE REVIEW OF AND APPROVAL PROCEEDINGS FOR ELECTRICAL UTILITIES' AVOIDED COST METHODOLOGIES, STANDARD OFFERS, FORM CONTRACTS, AND COMMITMENT TO SELL FORMS, SO AS TO REITERATE THE SECTION; BY ADDING CHAPTER 42 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO ESTABLISH COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAM STANDARDS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ENERGY STORAGE, AND TO REQUIRE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO OPEN A DOCKET TO ESTABLISH A COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAM FOR ENERGY STORAGE FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION "LIKE FACILITY" AND AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "MAJOR UTILITY FACILITY," SO AS TO REITERATE THE DEFINITION; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 3 OF CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58, RELATING TO CERTIFICATION OF MAJOR UTILITY FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A LIKE FACILITY, TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR PROPOSED FACILITIES, TO PROVIDE WHAT ACTIONS MAY BE TAKEN WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE COMMISSION, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-40, RELATING TO INTEGRATED RESOURCE PLANS, SO AS TO ADD CONSIDERATION OF A UTILITY'S TRANSMISSION REPORT, TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION BY THE COMMISSION, AND REQUIRE PARTIES TO BEAR THEIR OWN COSTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-260, RELATING TO COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN THE COMMISSION AND PARTIES, SO AS TO MODIFY REQUIREMENTS FOR ALLOWABLE EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS AND BRIEFINGS, AND TO PERMIT COMMISSION TOURS OF UTILITY PLANTS OR OTHER FACILITIES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-270, RELATING TO EX PARTE COMMUNICATION COMPLAINT PROCEEDINGS AT THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SO AS TO PERMIT AN ORDER TOLLING ANY DEADLINES ON A PROCEEDING SUBJECT TO A COMPLAINT IF TRUE TO THE EXTENT THE PROCEEDING WAS PREJUDICED SO THAT THE COMMISSION COULD NOT CONSIDER THE MATTER IMPARTIALLY; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-310, RELATING TO AN APPEAL FROM A FINAL ORDER OR DECISION OF THE COMMISSION ISSUED PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A TIMELINE FOR A PETITION FOR REHEARING OR RECONSIDERATION, AND TO REQUIRE A FINAL ORDER BE IMMEDIATELY APPEALABLE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-320, RELATING TO JUDICIAL JURISDICTION, SO AS TO REITERATE THE SECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-160 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO CONDUCT A STUDY TO EVALUATE VARIOUS THIRD-PARTY ADMINISTRATOR MODELS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD A REFERENCE TO "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM" AND PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR "COST-EFFECTIVE" AND "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PILOT PROGRAM"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-20, RELATING TO COMMISSION PROCEDURES ENCOURAGING ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO EXPAND COMMISSION CONSIDERATIONS FOR COST-EFFECTIVE, DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS, REQUIRE EACH INVESTOR-OWNED ELECTRICAL UTILITY TO SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMISSION REGARDING ITS DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS, AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO REVIEW THESE PORTFOLIOS ON AT LEAST A TRIENNIAL BASIS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-30, RELATING TO REPORTS ON DEMAND-SIDE ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-35 SO AS TO PERMIT PROGRAMS AND CUSTOMER INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE OR PROMOTE DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS FOR CUSTOMER-SITED DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES, AND TO PROVIDE CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-50, RELATING TO AGREEMENTS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN TERMS AND RATE RECOVERY FOR AGREEMENTS FOR FINANCING AND INSTALLING ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, AND FOR APPLICATION TO A RESIDENCE OCCUPIED BEFORE THE MEASURES ARE TAKEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-70, RELATING TO COMPENSATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION MEMBERS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH SALARIES IN AMOUNTS EQUAL TO NINETY PERCENT OF SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-41-50 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATION FOR CO-LOCATED RESOURCES BETWEEN AN ELECTRICAL UTILITY AND ITS CUSTOMER UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; TO ENCOURAGE DEVELOPMENT OF A DIVERSE MIX OF LONG-LEAD, CLEAN GENERATION RESOURCES, AND TO PERMIT THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO FIND CERTAIN ACTIONS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST TO PERMIT AN ELECTRICAL UTILITY TO CAPTURE AVAILABLE INCENTIVES FOR RATEPAYERS; TO PERMIT DEFERRAL OF CERTAIN REASONABLE AND PRUDENT COSTS FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-40-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCE"; BY ADDING CHAPTER 43 TO TITLE 58, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CONSIDERATIONS FOR ELECTRICITY RATE AND CONDITIONS FOR CERTAIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-135 SO AS TO TRANSFER A PENDING APPEAL REGARDING ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PERMITS TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-530, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES REVIEW COMMITTEE'S DUTIES, SO AS TO REQUIRE AN ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER ADVOCACY RELATED TO ITS REPRESENTATION OF CONSUMERS IN UTILITY MATTERS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-3-65 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION'S CHIEF CLERK'S SALARY BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-200 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO RETAIN AN INDEPENDENT CONSTRUCTION ANALYST FOR ANY CONSTRUCTION PROJECT BUDGET OF AT LEAST FIVE HUNDRED MILLION DOLLARS; TO REQUIRE A REPORT BY THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF REGARDING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ARTICLE 24, CHAPTER 27, TITLE 58; TO REQUIRE DOMINION ENERGY TO EVALUATE CONVERTING THE WATEREE GENERATION STATION TO BIOMASS-FIRED GENERATION, AND TO PROVIDE A REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 58-4-50, RELATING TO OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF DUTIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS.
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(R. 61, H. 3430 (Word version)) -- Reps. B. Newton, Murphy, Caskey, Mitchell, Pope, W. Newton, Bannister, Sessions, Jordan, Robbins, Collins, Martin, Lawson, Wickensimer, Landing, Long, Hiott, Forrest, Sanders, Teeple, Oremus, Hartz, Guest, Pedalino, M.M. Smith, Schuessler, Chapman, Gatch, McGinnis, Neese, Hardee, Ligon, Taylor, Willis, Vaughan, Brittain, Erickson, Bradley, Rankin, Hager, Whitmire, Gilliam, Crawford, Hewitt, Yow, Hixon, Ballentine, Gagnon and Brewer: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-38-15, RELATING TO JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY AND THE APPORTIONMENT OF PERCENTAGES OF FAULT AND ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OR DRUG EXCEPTIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS, SO AS TO FURTHER MODIFY PROVISIONS RELATING TO JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY, TO REMOVE THE EXCEPTION TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE SECTION APPLYING TO THE USE, SALE, OR POSSESSION OF ALCOHOL, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE INCLUSION OF ADDITIONAL TORTFEASORS IN A CAUSE OF ACTION AND FOR THE TRIER OF FACT TO ALLOCATE FAULT TO ADDITIONAL TORTFEASORS, AND TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH ADDITIONAL NONDEFENDANT TORTFEASORS SHALL BE ADDED TO A VERDICT FORM AND CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THEY SHALL NOT BE ADDED; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-2220, RELATING TO ALCOHOL SALES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON FROM KNOWINGLY SELLING ALCOHOL TO AN INTOXICATED PERSON; BY ADDING CHAPTER 3 TO TITLE 61 SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING REQUIREMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-60, RELATING TO REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE REGULATIONS FOR THE ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-580, RELATING TO PROHIBITED ACTS BY HOLDERS OF PERMITS AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF BEER OR WINE, SO AS TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-4-523 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE SALE OF BEER AND WINE AT COLLEGIATE SPORTING EVENTS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY ADDING SECTION 38-73-550 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO MAKE CERTAIN REPORTS REGARDING LIQUOR LIABILITY COVERAGE IN THIS STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-20, RELATING TO LICENSING, REQUIRED INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION, FEES, AND RENEWAL, SO AS TO INCLUDE LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-145, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR LIQUOR LIABILITY RISK MITIGATION; AND BY ADDING SECTION 61-2-147 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TORTFEASORS CHARGED WITH CERTAIN DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OFFENSES SHALL APPEAR ON THE JURY VERDICT FORM UPON MOTION OF THE DEFENDANT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE IF A VERDICT IS RENDERED AGAINST BOTH A LICENSEE AND A DEFENDANT CHARGED WITH CERTAIN DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OFFENSES THAT THE LICENSEE IS JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY LIABLE FOR FIFTY PERCENT OF THE PLAINTIFF'S ACTUAL DAMAGES.
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(R. 62, H. 3563 (Word version)) -- Reps. Davis, B.J. Cox, Spann-Wilder, McCravy, Taylor, Chapman, Kirby, Cromer, Gilreath, Weeks, Williams, Holman and Govan: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-50, RELATING TO COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECRETARY SHALL EVALUATE EACH COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICE NO MORE THAN TWICE PER YEAR.
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(R. 63, H. 3632 (Word version)) -- Reps. Erickson, Spann-Wilder and Bauer: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-149-15, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL LIFE SCHOLARSHIP STIPENDS, AND SECTION 59-104-25, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIP STIPENDS, BOTH SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN COURSEWORK IN ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS STATISTICS MUST COUNT TOWARDS CERTAIN REQUIRED FRESHMAN YEAR COURSEWORK IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE, AND TO CLARIFY THESE PROVISIONS APPLY BEGINNING WITH ACCOUNTING MAJORS WHO COMPLETED SUCH COURSEWORK AS FRESHMEN IN THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR.
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(R. 64, H. 3800 (Word version)) -- Reps. W. Newton, Bannister, Herbkersman, White, Kilmartin and Frank: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO THE SALES TAX EXEMPTION ON DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO DELETE AN ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT THAT THE SELLER HAVE A PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IN THIS STATE.
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(R. 65, H. 3813 (Word version)) -- Rep. Hixon: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-430, RELATING TO BEAR HUNTING, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO A REGISTERED PARTY DOG HUNT IN GAME ZONE 1.
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(R. 66, H. 3862 (Word version)) -- Reps. Erickson, G.M. Smith, Gilliam, Mitchell and M.M. Smith: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-50, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL ADMISSIONS, SO AS TO REVISE ADMISSIONS PREFERENCE CRITERIA AND PROCEDURES, AND TO ADD PROVISIONS CONCERNING STUDENTS WITH MULTIPLE ENROLLMENT PREFERENCES.
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(R. 67, H. 3877 (Word version)) -- Reps. Gilliam, Rankin and Willis: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 779 OF 1988, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 56, SO AS TO REAPPORTION THE SEVEN SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 56 BOARD OF TRUSTEES MUST BE ELECTED, TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS ARE DELINEATED, AND TO PROVIDE DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE REAPPORTIONED ELECTION DISTRICTS.
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(R. 68, H. 3878 (Word version)) -- Reps. Gilliam, Rankin and Willis: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 779 OF 1988, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 55, SO AS TO REAPPORTION THE SEVEN SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 55 BOARD OF TRUSTEES MUST BE ELECTED, TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS ARE DELINEATED, AND TO PROVIDE DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE REAPPORTIONED ELECTION DISTRICTS.
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(R. 69, H. 3910 (Word version)) -- Reps. Davis, G.M. Smith and B.J. Cox: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 3-1-150 AND 63-3-510, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OVER CERTAIN LANDS RELINQUISHED BY THE UNITED STATES AND THE EXCLUSIVE ORIGINAL JURISDICTION OF THE FAMILY COURT, RESPECTIVELY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CONCURRENT JURISDICTION WITH THE UNITED STATES IN CERTAIN MATTERS INVOLVING JUVENILES WITHIN A MILITARY INSTALLATION AND EXCLUSIVE ORIGINAL JURISDICTION THEREAFTER FOR CERTAIN MATTERS.
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(R. 70, H. 3969 (Word version)) -- Reps. Rutherford, Ballentine, Bauer, Bernstein, Garvin, Grant, Hart, Howard, J.L. Johnson, McDaniel, Reese and Rose: AN ACT TO PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATION OF PERSONAL DELIVERY DEVICES IN RICHLAND COUNTY.
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(R. 71, H. 3973 (Word version)) -- Rep. Bannister: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 432 OF 1947, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE GREENVILLE HEALTH SYSTEM BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO REVISE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES' DISTRICTS CONSTITUTING THE DISTRICTS WHICH COMPRISE HOUSE DISTRICT RESIDENCY SEATS ON THE BOARD.
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(R. 72, H. 3996 (Word version)) -- Reps. Sessions and Chapman: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-1250, RELATING TO SUPERVISION OF ANESTHESIOLOGIST'S ASSISTANTS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF ANESTHESIOLOGIST'S ASSISTANTS THAT AN ANESTHESIOLOGIST MAY SUPERVISE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-1240, RELATING TO LICENSURE OF ANESTHESIOLOGIST'S ASSISTANTS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT LICENSURE APPLICANTS MUST APPEAR BEFORE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS AND PRESENT EVIDENCE OF CERTAIN RELEVANT ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS AND KNOWLEDGE.
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(R. 73, H. 4003 (Word version)) -- Reps. Vaughan, Willis, Burns, B.J. Cox and Bannister: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 1543 OF 1968, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE GREATER GREENVILLE SANITATION DISTRICT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION SHALL NOT PROVIDE REFUSE, GARBAGE, OR TRASH COLLECTING SERVICES OUTSIDE OF THE GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT AFTER JUNE 30, 2026, TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR SUCH SERVICES PROVIDED PURSUANT TO CERTAIN EXISTING INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENTS, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION MAY DEVELOP CERTAIN PROPERTY SUBJECT TO CERTAIN USE RESTRICTIONS, AND TO REVISE THE ANNEXATION AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSION SO AS TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF FREEHOLDERS REQUIRED FOR A PETITION TO REQUEST SUCH ANNEXATIONS.
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(R. 74, H. 4026 (Word version)) -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025, AND TO ALLOW UNEXPENDED FUNDS APPROPRIATED TO BE CARRIED FORWARD TO SUCCEEDING FISCAL YEARS AND EXPENDED FOR THE SAME PURPOSES.
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(R. 75, H. 4067 (Word version)) -- Reps. Davis, Sessions, Forrest and Henderson-Myers: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-268 SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL HOSPITALS WITH EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS TO HAVE AT LEAST ONE PHYSICIAN PHYSICALLY PRESENT ON SITE WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT AT ALL TIMES THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IS OPEN.
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(R. 76, H. 4160 (Word version)) -- Reps. W. Newton, G.M. Smith, Jordan, Caskey, Bannister, Pope, Mitchell and Yow: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 14-5-610, RELATING TO THE DIVISION OF THE STATE INTO SIXTEEN JUDICIAL CIRCUITS, THE NUMBER OF JUDGES TO BE ELECTED FROM EACH CIRCUIT, AND THE ELECTION OF AT-LARGE JUDGES WITHOUT REGARD TO COUNTY OR CIRCUIT OF RESIDENCE, SO AS TO CONVERT NINE AT-LARGE CIRCUIT COURT SEATS TO RESIDENT SEATS IN THE THIRD, THIRTEENTH, TWELFTH, FIFTH, NINTH, ELEVENTH, AND SEVENTH CIRCUITS.
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(R. 77, H. 4261 (Word version)) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, J. Moore, Rivers and Anderson: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-320 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER AS "BLOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH."
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(R. 78, H. 4296 (Word version)) -- Reps. Mitchell, Gilliam, Yow and T. Moore: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-90, RELATING TO SERVICE WITHIN THE STATE OF MILITARY FORCES FROM ANOTHER STATE, SO AS TO REMOVE A REFERENCE TO THE UNITED STATES ARMY; BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-510, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD APPOINTMENTS, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN AGE REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-1330, RELATING TO ANNUAL SETTLEMENTS FOR FEDERAL AND STATE PROPERTY, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO FEDERAL PROPERTY; BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-1370, RELATING TO ALLOWANCES FOR MAINTENANCE, SO AS TO REMOVE A REQUIREMENT THAT UNITS ARE ENTITLED TO CERTAIN MAINTENANCE FUND ALLOWANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 42-7-40, RELATING TO APPLICATION TO THE STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER PERSONS CALLED INTO ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 42-7-65, RELATING TO AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGES DESIGNATED FOR CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF EMPLOYEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER PERSONS CALLED INTO ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 42-7-75, RELATING TO STATE AGENCIES' REQUIREMENT TO PAY WORKERS' COMPENSATION PREMIUMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADJUTANT GENERAL MAY USE CERTAIN METHODS FOR PAYING WORKERS' COMPENSATION PREMIUMS IN CERTAIN CASES; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-360 RELATING TO RULES AND REGULATIONS; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-380 RELATING TO THE ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL FOR ARMY; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-390 RELATING TO THE ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL FOR AIR; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-410 RELATING TO AUDITS AND ALLOWANCES OF DEPARTMENT EXPENSES; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-560 RELATING TO PUBLICATIONS OF RELATIVE RANK LIST OF OFFICERS; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-580 RELATING TO OFFICERS IN COMMAND OF SUBORDINATE OR DETACHED UNITS OR DIFFERENT UNITS ON DUTY TOGETHER; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-810 RELATING TO PROMOTIONS UNDER THE FEDERAL PERSONNEL ACT; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-830 RELATING TO OFFICER SELECTION BOARDS; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-860 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN STAFF OF HEADQUARTERS AND HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-870 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF MAJOR GENERAL; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-880 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF BRIGADIER GENERAL; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-890 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF COLONEL; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-930 RELATING TO VACANCIES IN GRADE OF WARRANT OFFICER; BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-1350 RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR SHARING IN APPROPRIATIONS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 25-1-3105 RELATING TO MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY FORCES TO SERVE AT THE PLEASURE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL.
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(R. 79, H. 4307 (Word version)) -- Rep. B. Newton: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-350, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN LANCASTER COUNTY, SO AS TO COMBINE CERTAIN PRECINCTS AND REDESIGNATE MAP NUMBERS ON WHICH THESE PRECINCTS ARE DESIGNATED.
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(R. 80, H. 4350 (Word version)) -- Reps. Herbkersman, W. Newton, Hager, Rivers, Erickson and Bradley: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-110, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN BEAUFORT COUNTY, SO AS TO SPLIT CERTAIN PRECINCTS AND TO REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THESE PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED.
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(R. 81, H. 4402 (Word version)) -- Rep. Herbkersman: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE PROVISION IN SECTION 58-3-20(C) THAT PROHIBITS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM HOLDING AN ELECTION UNTIL A FINAL DETERMINATION IS MADE BY THE COURTS REGARDING ITS REVIEW OF CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS FOR CALENDAR YEARS 2025 AND 2026; AND TO SUSPEND SECTION 2-20-15 FOR ELECTIONS BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION DURING CALENDAR YEARS 2025 AND 2026.
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At 4:15 p.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. CLYBURN, adjourned in memory of Thelma C. Edwards, to meet pursuant to the provisions of S 292, the Sine Die Resolution
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