NO. 71
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Extraordinary Session of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina, begun and holden at Columbia on the third Friday in May, being the 15th day of the month.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Executive Order of the Governor, the members of the Senate assembled this day in the Senate Chamber at 11:00 A.M.
WHEREAS, on May 14, 2026, the regular annual session of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina adjourned sine die in accordance with section 2-1-180 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, as amended; and
WHEREAS, the General Assembly has not yet adopted, enrolled, or ratified a General Appropriations Act for the 2026 - 2027 fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, the General Assembly has enrolled a joint resolution to continue funding state government's recurring expenses at the same level as the 2025 - 2026 fiscal year at the end of the current fiscal year on June 30, 2026, see S. 769, 126th Gen. Assemb. (S.C. 2026). Such a continuing resolution, however, fails to accomplish the State's important budget priorities for the coming fiscal year, including additional funding for roads and infrastructure and raising the starting salary for our teachers to at least $50,000; and
WHEREAS, because "[m]oney shall be drawn from the treasury of the State or the treasury of any of its political subdivisions only in pursuance of appropriations made by law," S.C. Const. art. X, Section 8, the absence of a General Appropriations Act for the upcoming fiscal year is a matter that requires the immediate attention of, and action by, the General Assembly prior to its next regular session; and
WHEREAS, the General Assembly began debating South Carolina's congressional districts in light of the United States Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais, 608 U.S. __, Nos. 24-109, 24-110 (U.S. Apr. 29, 2026), but that debate was not concluded when the General Assembly adjourned sine die. An issue of such public importance and interest should be not only debated but also decided by the People's representatives; and
WHEREAS, the undersigned has determined that it is necessary and appropriate for the General Assembly to convene in advance of its next regular session for purposes of promptly adopting a General Appropriations Act and finishing its debate on South Carolina's congressional maps ahead of the 2026 election cycle, both of which are independent, extraordinary circumstances to convene an extra session; and
WHEREAS, article IV, section 19 of the South Carolina Constitution provides that "[t]he Governor may on extraordinary occasions convene the General Assembly in extra session" and further provides that "[s]hould either house remain without a quorum for five days, or in case of disagreement between the two houses during any session with respect to the time of adjournment, he may adjourn them to such times as he shall think proper, not beyond the time of the annual session then next ensuing"; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to article IV, section 19 of the South Carolina Constitution and in accordance with the authority and discretion conferred therein, the undersigned has determined that the foregoing circumstances constitute "extraordinary occasions" such that it is necessary and appropriate to convene the General Assembly in extra session at the earliest practicable opportunity; and
WHEREAS, the undersigned has concluded that 11:00 AM on Friday, May 15, 2026, is the earliest practicable opportunity to convene the General Assembly in extra session.
NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of South Carolina and pursuant to the Constitution and Laws of this State and the powers conferred upon me therein, I hereby call an extra session of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina to convene at the State House in Columbia, commencing at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 15, 2026. This Order is effective immediately and shall remain in effect unless and until modified, amended, or rescinded by subsequent Order.
GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 14th DAY OF MAY, 2026.
____________________________
HENRY DARGAN MCMASTER
Governor
ATTEST:
__________________________
MARK HAMMOND
Secretary of State
The Senate was called to order by the PRESIDENT and the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:
Isaiah 12:5
Among the writings of Isaiah the prophet we find these lines: " 'Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.' "
My friends, let us pray: Yet again, O God, as South Carolina's Senators gather once more, we humbly ask that You embrace them all afresh in Your loving and tender care. Remind them all, Lord, that, truly, many marvelous issues have already been properly dealt with and that a great deal of accomplishments this year have already been achieved. The people of our State have truly been blessed once more in many diverse ways, thanks to the diligence and the steadfastness of these leaders. And now as they and their staff members return to this place, may more, and perhaps even greater, gifts be achieved for the good people of this State. So fill all who labor here on Your behalf, dear God, with renewed zeal to accomplish--as Isaiah tells us--even more "glorious things." May it be so, dear Lord, in Your blessed and most holy name.. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator CROMER moved that the Senate meet in perfunctory session, pursuant to Rule 1B, on the day H. 5683 receives third reading in the House of Representatives for the sole purpose of receiving the Bill, and any other Bills related to the 2026 election cycle, and further, refer them to the Judiciary Committee. The Senate would continue in perfunctory session, pursuant to Rule 1B, on consecutive days until the PRESIDENT calls the Senate into statewide session.
The motion was adopted.
Pursuant to an invitation the Honorable Speaker and House of Representatives appeared in the Senate Chamber on May 15, 2026, at 11:05 A.M. and the following Acts and Joint Resolutions were ratified:
(R221, S. 70 (Word version)) -- Senator Hembree: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 19, TITLE 59 SO AS TO PROVIDE A SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER CODE OF ETHICS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-45, RELATING TO MANDATORY TRAINING FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES, SO AS TO REVISE THE TRAINING CONTENT REQUIREMENTS, APPLICABILITY, AND COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
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(R222, S. 235 (Word version)) -- Senators Kimbrell, Leber and Zell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-90, RELATING TO PROSTITUTION, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "PROSTITUTION," REVISE THE STATUTE AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS TO PROSECUTION FOR VICTIMS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND VICTIMS UNDER THE AGE OF EIGHTEEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-100, RELATING TO FURTHER ACTS OF PROSTITUTION, SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, REVISE THE STATUTE REGARDING PROMOTING PROSTITUTION, INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS TO PROSECUTION TO PERSONS COERCED AS RESULT OF BEING A VICTIM OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-110, RELATING TO SOLICITATION OF PROSTITUTION OFFENSES, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "PROSTITUTION," AND INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-115 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS PREVIOUSLY CONVICTED OF A PROSTITUTION OFFENSE MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN A TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION PROGRAM UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR EXPUNGEMENT OF THE ARREST RECORD.
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(R223, S. 325 (Word version)) -- Senators Massey, Alexander, Walker and Zell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-10, RELATING TO DEPARTMENTS OF STATE GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO ADD THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO THE DEPARTMENTS WITHIN THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH OF STATE GOVERNMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 1-30-145 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE TRANSITION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH OF STATE GOVERNMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 37-6-103, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "ADMINISTRATOR," SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ADMINISTRATOR IS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR UPON THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 37-6-104 AND 37-6-117, SECTION 37-6-501 THROUGH SECTION 37-6-510, AND SECTIONS 37-6-602 AND 37-6-604, ALL REATING THE FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION ON CONSUMER AFFAIRS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISSOLUTION OF THE COMMISSION ON CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO BE REPLACED WITH AN ADMINISTRATOR AS THE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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(R224, S. 399 (Word version)) -- Senators Elliott, Hembree, Reichenbach and Walker: AN ACT 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.
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(R225, S. 416 (Word version)) -- Senators Hembree and Alexander: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-210, RELATING TO THE EXPULSION, SUSPENSION, AND TRANSFER OF STUDENTS, SO AS TO REVISE RESTRICTIONS APPLICABLE TO EXPELLED AND SUSPENDED STUDENTS WHILE ON SCHOOL PROPERTY OR ATTENDING SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, AND TO REMOVE LIMITATIONS ON DISCIPLINARY ACTION FOR CERTAIN VIOLATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-235, RELATING TO THE EXPULSION OF STUDENTS WHO BRING FIREARMS TO SCHOOL, SO AS TO REQUIRE A MINIMUM ONE-YEAR EXPULSION FOR KNOWINGLY BRINGING A FIREARM TO SCHOOL, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR MODIFICATION, REVIEW, AND REINSTATEMENT OF THE EXPULSION PERIOD, TO PRESERVE STUDENT APPEAL RIGHTS, AND TO AUTHORIZE EDUCATIONAL SERVICES IN ALTERNATIVE OR VIRTUAL SETTINGS; BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-237 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXPULSION OF STUDENTS WHO MAKE CERTAIN THREATS OF VIOLENCE AGAINST SCHOOLS OR SCHOOL PERSONNEL, TO ESTABLISH STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES FOR SUCH EXPULSIONS, TO AUTHORIZE EDUCATIONAL SERVICES IN ALTERNATIVE OR VIRTUAL SETTINGS, AND TO REQUIRE REFERRAL TO THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-250, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF STUDENTS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE AUTHORITY OF DISTRICT BOARDS AND DESIGNATED ADMINISTRATORS TO TRANSFER STUDENTS WITHIN THE DISTRICT IN LIEU OF SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION, TO REQUIRE PARENT CONFERENCES OR HEARINGS AND NOTICE TO AND INPUT FROM THE RECEIVING SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, AND TO PROVIDE APPEAL RIGHTS FOR TRANSFERS ORDERED BY AN ADMINISTRATOR.
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(R226, S. 420 (Word version)) -- Senator Young: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-5-10, RELATING TO AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS OF FUNDS BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN INVESTMENT-GRADE CORPORATE DEBT INVESTMENTS BY QUALIFIED RETIREE POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS TRUSTS AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS AND LIMITATIONS FOR SUCH INVESTMENTS.
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(R227, S. 428 (Word version)) -- Senators Allen, Hembree and Garrett: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 34-11-90, RELATING TO JURISDICTION FOR OFFENSES INVOLVING CHECKS AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A METHOD TO EXPUNGE CONVICTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 17-22-910, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR EXPUNGEMENT, SO AS TO ADD MULTIPLE MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES OF CHECK FRAUD TO THOSE OFFENSES ELIGIBLE FOR EXPUNGEMENT; AND BY ADDING SECTION 17-1-43 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DESTRUCTION OF ARREST RECORDS OF PERSONS MADE AS A RESULT OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
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(R228, S. 508 (Word version)) -- Senators Verdin, Goldfinch, Martin, Peeler, Bennett, Young, Blackmon, Kimbrell, Zell, Nutt, Fernandez, Alexander, Turner, Adams, Leber, Corbin, Grooms, Hembree, Rice, Massey, Garrett, Chaplin, Cromer, Johnson, Gambrell, Kennedy, Davis, Climer, Campsen, Reichenbach, Bright and Cash: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 10-1-165, RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF CERTAIN MONUMENTS AND MEMORIALS, SO AS TO EXPAND THE TYPE OF MONUMENTS OR MEMORIALS THAT MAY NOT BE RELOCATED, REMOVED, OR DISTURBED, TO AUTHORIZE THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BY JOINT RESOLUTION, TO TAKE ACTIONS REGARDING CERTAIN MONUMENTS, TO ALLOW FOR CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THE MANNER IN WHICH AN AFFINITY ORGANIZATION MAY BRING A CIVIL ACTION TO PREVENT CERTAIN ACTIONS REGARDING CERTAIN MONUMENTS.
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(R229, S. 556 (Word version)) -- Senator Verdin: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3830 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A TAX CREDIT FOR RENEWABLE NATURAL GAS.
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(R230, S. 751 (Word version)) -- Senators Sutton, Ott, Zell, Garrett and Walker: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE SALE OF NITROUS OXIDE OR NITROUS OXIDE PRODUCTS IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS IN CONSULTATION WITH THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION; TO CREATE CRIMINAL PENALTIES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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(R231, S. 765 (Word version)) -- Senator Reichenbach: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-83, RELATING TO PAYROLL DEDUCTIONS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL TO DEDUCT DUES FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS' ASSOCIATION FROM THE COMPENSATION OF STATE EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES.
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(R232, S. 823 (Word version)) -- Senators Reichenbach, Hutto, Devine and Walker: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTIONS 63-7-2630 AND 63-9-765 SO AS TO REQUIRE FAMILY COURTS TO CONSIDER THE APPROPRIATENESS OF NO CONTACT ORDERS OR SUPERVISED CONTACT ORDERS WHEN TERMINATING PARENTAL RIGHTS OR FINALIZING ADOPTIONS; TO AUTHORIZE THESE ORDERS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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(R233, S. 832 (Word version)) -- Senators Sutton, Graham, Goldfinch and Zell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 53-1-20, RELATING TO COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES EXEMPT FROM THE PROHIBITION ON SUNDAY PUBLIC SPORTS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO CAMPUS EVENTS AND LAND USE APPROVAL, TO PROVIDE THAT NO COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY MAY PROHIBIT, RESTRICT, CONDITION, DELAY, OR REQUIRE LAND USE APPROVAL FOR EVENTS HELD ON THE CAMPUS OF A STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING BASED ON ZONING ORDINANCES OR LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS, AND TO CLARIFY THE APPLICATION OF GENERALLY APPLICABLE SAFETY LAWS.
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(R234, S. 845 (Word version)) -- Senator Young: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-1930, RELATING TO THE STATE CHILD FATALITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO ADD THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMISSION FOR COMMUNITY ADVANCEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT AS A MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE, TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON SERVING IN A HOLDOVER CAPACITY, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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(R235, S. 851 (Word version)) -- Senators Alexander, Young and Garrett: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 TO CHAPTER 3 OF TITLE 34 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO THE FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION OF AN ELIGIBLE ADULT, AND TO SET FORTH PROCESSES BY WHICH A FINANCIAL INSTITUTION MAY PROTECT AN ELIGIBLE ADULT, INCLUDING ESTABLISHING EMERGENCY CONTACTS FOR AN ELIGIBLE ADULT TO PROTECT THE ELIGIBLE ADULT. L:\COUNCIL\ACTS\851DG126.DOCX
(R236, S. 853 (Word version)) -- Senators Davis, Hutto, Sutton, Graham, Turner, Stubbs, Matthews, Zell, Campsen, Kimbrell and Walker: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-120, RELATING TO THE ABANDONED BUILDINGS REVITALIZATION ACT DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT THE EXISTENCE OF AN INCOME-PRODUCING USE PRIOR TO THE PERIOD OF ABANDONMENT IS NOT A REQUIREMENT FOR ELIGIBILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-130, RELATING TO APPLICABILITY, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-140, RELATING TO ELIGIBILITY FOR THE CREDIT, SO AS TO CLARIFY CERTAIN TIMING CONSIDERATIONS, RELATED TO THE FILING OF A NOTICE OF INTENT TO REHABILITATE AN ABANDONED BUILDING AND TO CLARIFY THAT ABANDONED BUILDING TAX CREDITS MAY NOT SERVE AS COLLATERAL FOR ANY DEBT; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-67-160, RELATING TO THE CERTIFICATION OF ABANDONED BUILDING SITES, SO AS TO REMOVE A REQUIREMENT FOR CERTAIN CERTIFICATIONS OF STATE-OWNED ABANDONED BUILDING SITES; AND TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN ABEYANCE.
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(R237, S. 858 (Word version)) -- Senator Young: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-11-700, 63-11-710, 63-11-740, 63-11-760, AND 63-11-770, ALL RELATING TO THE DIVISION OF FOSTER CARE REVIEW OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY, SO AS TO CHANGE THE STANDARDS FOR SERVING ON THE DIVISION'S BOARD AND THE PROCEDURE FOR TERMS OF OFFICE; TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN STANDARDS FOR LOCAL REVIEW BOARDS; TO AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR TO APPOINT OR REMOVE MEMBERS OF LOCAL BOARDS, WITH EXCEPTIONS; TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO DISSOLVE LOCAL BOARDS; TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO PROVIDE CERTAIN ASSISTANCE TO LOCAL BOARDS; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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(R238, S. 866 (Word version)) -- Senators Elliott and Turner: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "MUNICIPAL TAX RELIEF ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 41 TO TITLE 5 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN MUNICIPALITIES TO IMPOSE UP TO A ONE PERCENT SALES TAX TO PROVIDE PROPERTY TAX RELIEF TO OWNER-OCCUPIED HOMES AND TO FINANCE CERTAIN PROJECTS, TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH THE TAX MUST BE IMPOSED AND ADMINISTERED AND THE MANNER IN WHICH THE PROPERTY TAX CREDIT IS CALCULATED.
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(R239, S. 933 (Word version)) -- Senators Martin, Corbin, Williams, Jackson, Leber, Hutto, Devine, Graham, Zell and Walker: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 2-3-20, RELATING TO COMPENSATION OF MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL RECEIVE LEGISLATIVE COMPENSATION AND AN IN-DISTRICT LEGISLATIVE SERVICE ALLOWANCE OF A COMBINED FORTY-SEVEN THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT SUCH AMOUNT SHALL BE ADJUSTED EVERY TWO YEARS BY AN INFLATION FACTOR NOT TO EXCEED FIVE PERCENT.
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(R240, S. 935 (Word version)) -- Senator Tedder: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-1-320 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO CREATE A PAMPHLET ON RENDERING SEIZURE FIRST AID TO INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE SUFFERED A SEIZURE IN THE WORKPLACE AND TO REQUIRE STATE GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES TO POST THE PAMPHLET IN A CONSPICUOUS LOCATION.
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(R241, S. 958 (Word version)) -- Senators Verdin and Alexander: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-255 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FIRE AND BUILDING CODE EXCEPTIONS FOR PLACEMENT OF HOSPITAL BEDS IN HALLWAYS, CORRIDORS, OR OTHER MEANS OF EGRESS DURING JUSTIFIED EMERGENCIES.
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(R242, S. 961 (Word version)) -- Senator Campsen: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-5-1705, RELATING TO CATCH LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SALTWATER GAME FISH, SO AS TO REVISE THE CATCH LIMIT FOR RED DRUM; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-5-1710, RELATING TO SIZE LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SALTWATER GAME FISH, SO AS TO REVISE THE SIZE LIMIT FOR RED DRUM; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-5-1700, RELATING TO EQUIPMENT FOR THE CATCHING OF SALTWATER GAME FISH, SO AS TO REQUIRE A NONOFFSET, NONSTAINLESS STEEL CIRCLE HOOK WHEN USING A HANDHELD HOOK AND LINE AND A HOOK SIZE OF 4/0 OR LARGER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 50-9-650, RELATING TO DEER HUNTING, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF ANTERLESS DEER TAGS ISSUED.
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(R243, S. 996 (Word version)) -- Senators Young, Sutton, Reichenbach, Devine, Zell, Elliott and Tedder: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-13-190, RELATING TO FINGERPRINT-BASED BACKGROUND CHECKS OF DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES PERSONNEL IN CHILDCARE FACILITIES, SO AS TO MAKE CERTAIN CHANGES TO THE REQUIREMENT FOR A FINGERPRINT-BASED BACKGROUND CHECK.
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(R244, S. 1038 (Word version)) -- Senator Massey: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-340 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE FIRST DAY OF MARCH OF EACH YEAR AS "RELIGIOUS LIBERTY DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA..
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(R245, H. 3195 (Word version)) -- Reps. Haddon, Pope, Pedalino, Chumley, Taylor, Erickson, Bradley, Hixon, Ligon, Weeks, Oremus, Hartz, Williams, Luck, Gilliard, Rivers and Anderson: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-10, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SO AS TO EXPAND SUCH REQUIREMENTS TO INCLUDE STUDENTS IN FOUR-YEAR-OLD KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND RECESS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-30, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITY DIRECTORS AND VOLUNTEERS, SO AS TO INCLUDE NONCERTIFIED STAFF AND MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-29-80, RELATING TO REQUIRED SUBJECTS AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSEWORK, SO AS TO EXEMPT CERTAIN MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS WHO ARE ATTEMPTING HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS; AND TO REDESIGNATE ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 10, TITLE 59 AS "PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ACTIVITY."
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(R246, H. 3335 (Word version)) -- Reps. Dillard, Spann-Wilder and Garvin: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 33-1-103, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF REPRESENTATION IN MAGISTRATES COURT, SO AS TO INCLUDE HOUSING AUTHORITIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 31-3-70 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT HOUSING AUTHORITIES MAY DESIGNATE A CERTAIN REPRESENTATIVE.
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(R247, H. 4303 (Word version)) -- Reps. Gatch, Cobb-Hunter, Sessions, M.M. Smith, Brewer, Rutherford, Gagnon, Guest, Guffey, Weeks, Hosey and Yow: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-21-620, RELATING TO TAX RATES ON PRODUCTS CONTAINING TOBACCO, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A TAX ON CIGARETTES FOR HEATING AND CERTAIN VAPOR PRODUCTS AND ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES.
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(R248, H. 4382 (Word version)) -- Rep. Sessions: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-53-398, RELATING TO THE SALE OF PRODUCTS CONTAINING EPHEDRINE, PSEUDOEPHEDRINE, OR PHENYLPROPANOLAMINE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT MANUFACTURERS OF THESE PRODUCTS PAY MONTHLY FEES ASSOCIATED WITH DATA COLLECTION, TO ESTABLISH A PENALTY FOR MANUFACTURERS THAT FAIL TO COMPLY, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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(R249, H. 4476 (Word version)) -- Reps. Rutherford, Bamberg, J. Moore, Herbkersman and Rivers: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 80 TO TITLE 39 ENTITLED "SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION" SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA-BAHAMAS TRADE COMMISSION AND PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP AND PURPOSE.
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(R250, H. 4589 (Word version)) -- Rep. Gilliam: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-10-470, RELATING TO COUNTIES IN WHICH THE EDUCATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS SALES AND USE TAX MAY BE IMPOSED, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL AUTHORIZATIONS.
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(R251, H. 4591 (Word version)) -- Reps. Guffey, Pope, Oremus, Martin, Schuessler, Sessions, T. Moore, Chapman, Lawson, Brewer, Ford, Pedalino, Ligon, Robbins, Terribile, Huff, Govan, Wickensimer, Lastinger, W. Newton, Hewitt, Calhoon and Gibson: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "STOP HARM FROM ADDICTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA (SHASM) ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO REQUIRE COVERED SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO USE REASONABLE MEANS TO ESTIMATE THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO VERIFY THE AGE OF CERTAIN ACCOUNT HOLDERS, TO CREATE DEFAULT ACCOUNT SETTINGS FOR CERTAIN USERS, AND TO CREATE CERTAIN PARENTAL CONSENTS.
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(R252, H. 4706 (Word version)) -- Reps. Rutherford, Neese, Chumley, Hartnett, Gilliard, Rivers and Williams: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 15-1-350 SO AS TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN RACING FACILITIES, UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, FROM BEING SUBJECT TO NUISANCE AND TAKING CAUSES OF ACTION FROM A SURROUNDING LANDOWNER, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS.
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(R253, H. 5018 (Word version)) -- Rep. G.M. Smith: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-1-1210, RELATING TO ANNUAL SALARIES OF CERTAIN STATE OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SALARIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MUST BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-160, RELATING TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION AND SALARY INCREASES FOR AGENCY HEADS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SALARIES OF THE GOVERNOR AND THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MUST BE BASED ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO AUTHORIZE A STUDY EVERY FOUR YEARS TO RECOMMEND SALARY RANGES FOR THE GOVERNOR AND LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-165, RELATING TO THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION AND ITS DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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(R254, H. 5073 (Word version)) -- Reps. Pedalino, Erickson, Montgomery, McCravy, Pace, Bradley, D. Mitchell, Terribile, Robbins, T. Moore, Sessions, Neese, Brittain, Crawford, Lawson, Edgerton, Chumley, Brewer, Chapman, Vaughan, Guest, Guffey, Cox, W. Newton, McGinnis, B. Newton, McCabe, Rankin, Gagnon, Gibson, J.E. Johnson, Long, Moss, Schuessler, G.M. Smith, White, Oremus, Teeple, Lastinger, Burns, Hewitt, Haddon, Cromer, Gilreath, Hartnett and Ballentine: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-250 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL GRADING SYSTEMS, TO CONDITION ELIGIBILITY FOR CREDIT RECOVERY AND CONTENT RECOVERY ON COMPLETION OF REQUIRED ASSIGNMENTS, TO LIMIT THE USE OF CERTAIN ASSESSMENTS, TO PROVIDE ENFORCEMENT MECHANISMS, TO DIRECT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ESTABLISH A TASK FORCE TO EVALUATE AND RECOMMEND REVISIONS TO THE UNIFORM GRADING POLICY, AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO ADOPT THE RECOMMENDED REVISIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
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(R255, H. 5093 (Word version)) -- Reps. Caskey, Bannister, Long, Lawson, C. Mitchell and Yow: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-90, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES, SO AS TO EXCLUDE AMOUNTS PAID BY STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR THE EMERGENCY SERVICES IP NETWORK; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-21-2420, RELATING TO ADMISSIONS TAX, SO AS TO EXEMPT ADMISSIONS CHARGED BY CERTAIN LOCAL CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO THE SALES TAX EXEMPTION ON CERTAIN COMPUTER EQUIPMENT, SO AS TO EXTEND THE EXEMPTION TO CERTAIN RELATED PERSONS OF THE TAXPAYER.
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(R256, H. 5113 (Word version)) -- Reps. Brewer, M.M. Smith, Guffey, B. Newton, Lawson, Sessions, Robbins, Gatch, Neese, Kirby, Waters, C. Mitchell, Yow, Atkinson, Forrest, Gagnon, Guest, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hiott, J.L. Johnson, Wooten, Chapman and Ligon: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 6-29-735 SO AS TO PROHIBIT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM PREVENTING THE CONTINUANCE OF LAWFUL NONCONFORMING USE OF PROPERTY WHEN A PREEXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME IS REPLACED WITH ANOTHER SPECIFIC MANUFACTURED HOME, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-43-85, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR MODULAR HOMES AND DISPLAY MODELS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STANDARDS ONLY APPLY TO ON-FRAME MODULAR HOMES AND TO REMOVE A FIVE-YEAR RESTRICTION ON DISPLAY MODELS BEING USED FOR RESIDENTIAL USE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 6-35-30, RELATING TO RESIDENTIAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR JOINT RESIDENTIAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS BETWEEN DIFFERENT JURISDICTIONS.
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(R257, H. 5120 (Word version)) -- Reps. Cox, Garvin, Holman, T. Moore, Sessions, Wetmore, C. Mitchell and Yow: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2020, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY OF JUVENILE RECORDS, SO AS TO CLARIFY WHEN NOTICE ABOUT THE DISPOSITION OF A CASE AGAINST A CHILD CHARGED WITH CERTAIN OFFENSES MUST BE PROVIDED TO A SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, AND TO CLARIFY WHEN JUVENILE FINGERPRINT RECORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHS ARE TAKEN, HOW THESE RECORDS ARE MAINTAINED, AND THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THESE RECORDS MAY BE TRANSMITTED TO ANOTHER AGENCY OR PERSON; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2030, RELATING TO JUVENILE LAW ENFORCEMENT RECORDS, SO AS TO CLARIFY WHEN INCIDENT REPORTS ABOUT A CHILD CHARGED WITH CERTAIN OFFENSES MUST BE PROVIDED TO A SCHOOL PRINCIPAL.
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(R258, H. 5122 (Word version)) -- Reps. B. Newton, Bannister, Herbkersman, Yow, C. Mitchell, Rose, Cobb-Hunter, Lawson, Brewer, Kirby, Ballentine, Rutherford, Hiott, Gagnon, Guest, M.M. Smith, Howard, Pope, Grant, Anderson, Schuessler, G.M. Smith, Caskey, Davis and Govan: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 31 TO CHAPTER 9, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PERMIT CERTAIN ITEMS SOLD TO OR USED BY INTERNET ACCESS SERVICE PROVIDERS AND COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE PROVIDERS TO BE EXEMPT FROM SALES TAX, TO ESTABLISH A PROCESS FOR REFUNDS ON TAXES PAID ON EXEMPT ITEMS, AND TO PROHIBIT DATA CENTERS FROM CLAIMING OR UTILIZING THESE EXEMPTIONS OR REFUNDS.
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(R259, H. 5164 (Word version)) -- Reps. Hewitt, Bannister, G.M. Smith and Henderson-Myers: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-255 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FIRE AND BUILDING CODE EXCEPTIONS FOR PLACEMENT OF HOSPITAL BEDS IN HALLWAYS, CORRIDORS, OR OTHER MEANS OF EGRESS DURING JUSTIFIED EMERGENCIES.
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(R260, H. 5168 (Word version)) -- Reps. C. Mitchell and Yow: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-687 SO AS TO DESIGNATE "CAROLINA WHEN I DIE" BY PATRICK DAVIS AS AN OFFICIAL STATE SONG.
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(R261, H. 5217 (Word version)) -- Reps. Hixon, Haddon, Forrest and Luck: AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-9-650, RELATING TO DEER HUNTING, SO AS TO CHANGE THE NUMBER OF DEER TAGS ISSUED.
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(R262, H. 5641 (Word version)) -- Reps. Jordan and Lowe: AN ACT TO REPEAL ACT 989 OF 1948 RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE FLORENCE MEMORIAL STADIUM COMMISSION.
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(R263, H. 5653 (Word version)) -- Rep. Scott: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 843 OF 1952, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE LEE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE METHOD BY WHICH PERSONS FILE TO BECOME A CANDIDATE FOR ELECTION TO THE BOARD, THE MANNER IN WHICH BOARD ELECTIONS ARE CONDUCTED, AND THE MANNER IN WHICH VACANCIES ON THE BOARD ARE FILLED; AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ANNUAL COMPENSATION OF MEMBERS OF THE BOARD.
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On motion of Senator DEVINE, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator DEVINE, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Thomas "Thom" Charles Salane of Columbia, S.C. Thom graduated from A.C. Flora and the University of South Carolina. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, recognized with the Algernon Sidney Sullivan Award and was elected Student Body President. After serving in Vietnam, he graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Law where he received the Cy Young Award, the Claude Sapp Award and later clerked for the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. Thoms career spanned over fifty years where he practiced with Turner, Padget, Graham & Laney in Columbia. He chaired the board of the Free Medical Clinic, served for the South Carolina Bar and volunteered for Homeless No More, Able SC and Sandhills School. He enjoyed playing golf, watching the Lady Gamecocks and spending time with family. Thom was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.
At 11:06 A.M., on motion of Senator TEDDER, the Senate adjourned under the provisions of Rule 1B.
This web page was last updated on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 8:50 A.M.