South Carolina General Assembly
114th Session, 2001-2002
Journal of the Senate

Thursday, January 17, 2002
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:

Beloved, hear a word of wisdom from the Prophet Daniel, Chapter 11:32:
"He shall seduce with intrigue those who violate the covenant; BUT THE PEOPLE WHO ARE LOYAL TO THEIR GOD SHALL STAND FIRM AND TAKE ACTION."
Let us pray.

Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, You have been, from olden times, the strength of the weak and the strong fortress of the righteous.

We thank You for the examples of strong faith that have come down through the years... even as Daniel, in his day, when heathen altars were set up in the Temple of the true God.

As we solemnly bow in Your Presence, give us a sense of humility born of the failures of mankind to live at peace with each other and a sense of optimism and hope born of our trust in You.

May our public service, in these days, become a sort of sacrament as the dreams and ambitions of our people take form in programs that lead to the state of our dreams!
Amen.

The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.

Doctor of the Day

Senator MARTIN introduced Dr. Boyce Tollison of Easley, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Statement by Senator FAIR

I was pleased to receive as my guests in the Senate today Ms. Julie Satero and Mr. Gabriel Eljack from the Christian Family Center.

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

S. 809 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Ravenel and Richardson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 48-39-290, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON CONSTRUCTION OR RECONSTRUCTION SEAWARD OF THE COASTAL BASELINE, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE RECONSTRUCTION, REPAIR, AND MAINTENANCE OF EXISTING GROINS, TO AUTHORIZE THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW GROINS ON BEACHES THAT HAVE A HIGH EROSION RATE THREATENING EXISTING DEVELOPMENT OR PUBLIC PARKS AND ONLY IN FURTHERANCE OF AN ON-GOING BEACH RENOURISHMENT EFFORT, AND TO CLARIFY THAT OF SPECIAL PERMITS AUTHORIZED FOR CONSTRUCTION OR RECONSTRUCTION OF STRUCTURES SEAWARD OF THE BASELINE, NO HABITABLE STRUCTURE MAY BE CONSTRUCTED OR RECONSTRUCTED ON A PRIMARY OCEANFRONT SAND DUNE OR ON THE ACTIVE BEACH AND IF, DUE TO EROSION, A PERMITTED HABITABLE STRUCTURE BECOMES SITUATED ON THE ACTIVE BEACH, THE OWNER AGREES TO REMOVE IT IF ORDERED TO DO SO BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL.

On motion of Senator BRANTON, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator BRANTON was added as a co-sponsor of S. 809.

RECALLED AND ADOPTED

H. 4489 (Word version) -- Reps. Delleney, McGee and F.N. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX 12:00 NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2002, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JULY 31, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 7, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 7, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2003; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 11, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 12, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 13, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2004; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE SIXTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 5, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2004; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 5, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE DIVISION, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002.

Senator MARTIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Judiciary.

There was no objection.

The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary.

Senator MARTIN asked unanimous consent to take the Concurrent Resolution up for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Concurrent Resolution, the question being the adoption of the Resolution.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Concurrent Resolution was adopted and ordered returned to the House.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 896 (Word version) -- Senator Courson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO INVITE THE NATIONAL COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION, THE HONORABLE RICHARD J. SANTOS, TO ADDRESS THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION AT 12:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2002.
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Introduced and referred to the Committee on Invitations.

S. 897 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler and Giese: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF ALL SCHOOL NURSES IN SOUTH CAROLINA WHO HELP ENSURE THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS OF OUR YOUNG STUDENTS AND TO COMMEND THEM FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE YOUTH OF THIS STATE.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

H. 4521 (Word version) -- Rep. Townsend: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SINCERE SORROW AT THE DEATH OF STERLING LEE SMITH OF LEXINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA, AND EXTENDING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Invitations Accepted

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Invitations submitted a favorable report on:

An invitation from the MARITIME ASSOCIATION OF THE PORT OF CHARLESTON to attend a luncheon on the State House grounds on Tuesday, January 29, 2002, upon adjournment and lasting until 2:00 P.M.

Poll of the Invitations Committee
Polled 11; Ayes 11; Nays 0; Not Voting 0

AYES

Courson                   Matthews                  Patterson
O'Dell                    McGill                    Waldrep
Alexander                 Bauer                     Peeler
Elliott                   Kuhn

TOTAL--11

NAYS

TOTAL--0

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Invitations submitted a favorable report on:

An invitation from the SC DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES to attend a reception at the SC State Museum on Tuesday, January 29, 2002, from 6:00 until 8:30 P.M.

Poll of the Invitations Committee
Polled 11; Ayes 11; Nays 0; Not Voting 0

AYES

Courson                   Matthews                  Patterson
O'Dell                    McGill                    Waldrep
Alexander                 Bauer                     Peeler
Elliott                   Kuhn

TOTAL--11

NAYS

TOTAL--0

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Invitations submitted a favorable report on:

An invitation from the SC ASSOCIATION OF CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS to attend a breakfast at the Holiday Inn City Center on Wednesday, January 30, 2002, from 7:45 until 8:45 A.M.

Poll of the Invitations Committee
Polled 11; Ayes 11; Nays 0; Not Voting 0

AYES

Courson                   Matthews                  Patterson
O'Dell                    McGill                    Waldrep
Alexander                 Bauer                     Peeler
Elliott                   Kuhn

TOTAL--11

NAYS

TOTAL--0

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Invitations submitted a favorable report on:

An invitation from the ETV ENDOWMENT OF SC to attend a luncheon at the ETV Telecommunications Center on Wednesday, January 30, 2002, from 12:00 until 1:30 P.M.

Poll of the Invitations Committee
Polled 11; Ayes 11; Nays 0; Not Voting 0

AYES

Courson                   Matthews                  Patterson
O'Dell                    McGill                    Waldrep
Alexander                 Bauer                     Peeler
Elliott                   Kuhn

TOTAL--11

NAYS

TOTAL--0

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Invitations submitted a favorable report on:

An invitation from the SC TELEPHONE ASSOCIATION to attend a reception at the Columbia Museum of Art on Wednesday, January 30, 2002, from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M.

Poll of the Invitations Committee
Polled 11; Ayes 11; Nays 0; Not Voting 0

AYES

Courson                   Matthews                  Patterson
O'Dell                    McGill                    Waldrep
Alexander                 Bauer                     Peeler
Elliott                   Kuhn

TOTAL--11

NAYS

TOTAL--0

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Invitations submitted a favorable report on:

An invitation from the SC MANUFACTURERS ALLIANCE to attend a breakfast at the Clarion Town House Hotel on Thursday, January 31, 2002, from 8:00 until 9:00 A.M.

Poll of the Invitations Committee
Polled 11; Ayes 11; Nays 0; Not Voting 0

AYES

Courson                   Matthews                  Patterson
O'Dell                    McGill                    Waldrep
Alexander                 Bauer                     Peeler
Elliott                   Kuhn

TOTAL--11

NAYS

TOTAL--0

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., January 17, 2002

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 4471 (Word version) -- Rep. Clyburn: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL DAYS MISSED ON JANUARY 3 AND 4, 2002, BY THE STUDENTS OF A SCHOOL IN THE EDGEFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT WHEN THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED DUE TO SNOW, ICE, OR INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT OF THE DEFINED MINIMUM PLAN THAT FULL SCHOOL DAYS MISSED DUE TO EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES BE MADE UP.
and has ordered the Joint Resolution enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

HOUSE CONCURRENCE

S. 829 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION INVITING HIS EXCELLENCY, JAMES H. HODGES, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION AT 7:00 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2002, IN THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.

ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The following Bills were read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the titles be changed to that of Acts and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 3653 (Word version) -- Reps. Campsen and Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 13-17-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH AUTHORITY, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT ITS PRINCIPAL OFFICE BE LOCATED IN COLUMBIA; TO AMEND SECTION 13-17-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY'S BOARD OF TRUSTEES, REPORTS, AND MEETINGS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHAIRMAN DETERMINES WHEN AND WHERE THE BOARD HOLDS ITS REGULAR MEETINGS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 13-17-60, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY'S TECHNICAL ADVISORY BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ITS CHAIRMAN DETERMINES WHEN AND WHERE THE ADVISORY BOARD MEETS.

Senator ALEXANDER spoke on the Bill.

H. 3925 (Word version) -- Rep. Kelley: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT THE PALMETTO ACHIEVEMENT CHALLENGE TEST (PACT) SHALL BE ADMINISTERED ANNUALLY IN THE HORRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM ON THE DAY FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF THE DISTRICT'S ONE HUNDRED SIXTIETH DAY OF STUDENT INSTRUCTION WITH THE MAKE-UP TEST TO BE TWO WEEKS LATER.

By prior motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following House Joint Resolution was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 4471 (Word version) -- Rep. Clyburn: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL DAYS MISSED ON JANUARY 3 AND 4, 2002, BY THE STUDENTS OF A SCHOOL IN THE EDGEFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT WHEN THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED DUE TO SNOW, ICE, OR INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT OF THE DEFINED MINIMUM PLAN THAT FULL SCHOOL DAYS MISSED DUE TO EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES BE MADE UP.

By prior motion of Senator MOORE, with unanimous consent

THIRD READING BILL

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered sent to the House of Representatives:

S. 877 (Word version) -- Senator Land: A BILL TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 3 OF CLARENDON COUNTY TO ISSUE GENERAL OBLIGATIONS BONDS OF THE DISTRICT UP TO ITS CONSTITUTIONAL DEBT LIMIT TO FUND AN OPERATING DEFICIT AND CURRENT OPERATING EXPENDITURES; TO PRESCRIBE THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH THE BONDS MAY BE ISSUED AND THE PURPOSES FOR WHICH THE PROCEEDS MAY BE EXPENDED; AND TO MAKE PROVISION FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE BONDS.

By prior motion of Senator LAND

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 721 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 6, TITLE 61, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ALCOHOL BEVERAGE CONTROL ACT, SO AS TO ADD SECTION 61-6-710, ESTABLISHING A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE TO BE ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE FOR A PERSON WHO MANUFACTURES FOOD ITEMS SUCH AS SAUCES AND MARINADES IN WHICH THERE IS AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE INGREDIENT AND WHO DOES SO UNDER AN AGREEMENT WITH THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE MANUFACTURER, AND TO ALLOW THE PURCHASE OF THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE IN CONTAINERS HOLDING QUANTITIES GREATER THAN THE QUANTITIES SOLD TO THE CONSUMER, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MUST ESTABLISH THE FORM OF APPLICATION AND CONDITIONS FOR ISSUANCE OF THE LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-33-210, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TAXES ON LICENSES ISSUED UNDER TITLE 61, SO AS TO INCLUDE A TAX FOR THE SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-2-175, RELATING TO SHIPPING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES INTO THE STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY BE SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO A RESIDENT WHO HOLDS A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2900, RELATING TO THE SHIPMENT OR TRANSFER OF IMPORTED ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY BE SHIPPED TO A PERSON HOLDING A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-4050, RELATING TO THE PURCHASE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS FROM LICENSED RETAIL DEALERS SO AS TO ADD ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS PURCHASED PURSUANT TO A SPECIAL FOOD MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Judiciary.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD0721.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, beginning on line 13, in Section 61-6-710, as contained in SECTION 1, by striking lines 13 through 20 and inserting therein / beverage manufacturer must apply for a special food manufacturer's license from the department, in accordance with Section 61-2-100, to purchase the alcoholic beverage directly from the manufacturer in containers holding greater quantities of liquor than are sold to a retail consumer. The department must establish the form of the application for the special food manufacturer's license."   /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 2, line 32, in Section 12-33-210, as contained in SECTION 2, by striking /and/.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 3, beginning on line 37, in Section 61-6-2900, as contained in SECTION 4, by striking lines 37 through 39 and inserting therein /     food manufacturer or producer representative, as appropriate, must apply to the department, on forms prescribed by the department, for permission to ship or transfer the alcoholic liquors, and the food manufacturer or producer representative must have received a certificate of approval of the shipment or transfer."   /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 4, line 17, in SECTION 6, by striking /January/ and inserting therein / July /.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MARTIN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time and ordered placed on the third reading Calendar.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 3404 (Word version) -- Rep. Fleming: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-25-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO FALSE SWEARING IN APPLYING FOR REGISTRATION, SO AS TO CHANGE THE PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION OF THE SECTION FROM A MISDEMEANOR TO A FELONY, AND TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM SENTENCE FOR VIOLATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 7-25-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO FRAUDULENT REGISTRATION OR VOTING, SO AS TO CHANGE THE PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION OF THE SECTION FROM A MISDEMEANOR TO A FELONY, AND TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM SENTENCE FOR VIOLATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 7-25-50, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO BRIBERY AT ELECTIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE OFFENSE OF BRIBING A PERSON TO REGISTER TO VOTE; TO AMEND SECTION 7-25-60, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROCURING OR OFFERING TO PROCURE VOTES BY BRIBERY, SO AS TO ADD REGISTERING TO VOTE TO THE SECTION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 7-25-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROCURING OR OFFERING TO PROCURE VOTES BY THREATS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON FROM USING THREATS OR ANOTHER FORM OF INTIMIDATION TO ENDEAVOR ANOTHER TO REGISTER TO VOTE, AND TO CHANGE THE PENALTY FOR VIOLATION OF THE SECTION FROM A MISDEMEANOR TO A FELONY.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Judiciary.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD3404.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, line 40, in Section 7-25-50, as contained in SECTION 3, by inserting / registering or / before /voting/.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 3, beginning on line 5, by striking SECTION 4 in its entirety.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MARTIN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 3539 (Word version) -- Reps. J.E. Smith and Lourie: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 16, TITLE 16, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO COMPUTER CRIME, SO AS TO ENACT THE "COMPUTER ABUSE ACT OF 2001", BY ADDING SECTION 16-16-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE A CIVIL REMEDY OF COMPENSATORY DAMAGES AND RESTITUTION FOR THE OWNER OR LESSEE OF A COMPUTER, COMPUTER SYSTEM, COMPUTER PROGRAM, OR COMPUTER NETWORK INJURED BY A PERSON CONVICTED UNDER THIS CHAPTER; TO AMEND SECTION 16-16-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD A DEFINITION FOR "COMPUTER CONTAMINANT" AND TO REVISE OTHER DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 16-16-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO COMPUTER CRIME OFFENSES, SO AS TO ADD THE OFFENSE OF INTRODUCING COMPUTER CONTAMINANT INTO A COMPUTER, COMPUTER SYSTEM, COMPUTER PROGRAM, OR COMPUTER NETWORK; TO AMEND SECTION 16-16-30, RELATING TO VENUE FOR ACTIONS BROUGHT UNDER THE COMPUTER CRIMES CHAPTER, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Judiciary.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD3539.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/   SECTION   1.   This act may be known as the "Computer Abuse Act of 2002".

SECTION   2.   Section 16-16-10 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 16-16-10.   For purposes of this chapter:

(a)   'Computer' means an electronic a device that performs logical, arithmetic, and memory functions by manipulating electronic or magnetic impulses, and includes all input, output, processing, storage, computer software, and communication facilities that are connected or related to a computer in a computer system or computer network but does not include any a computer or other electronic device designed and manufactured for, and which is used exclusively for routine personal, family, or household purposes and which is not used to access, to communicate with, or to manipulate any other computer.

(b)   'Computer network' means the interconnection of communications lines, or any other communications facilities, with a computer through remote terminals, or a system consisting of two or more interconnected computers.

(c)   'Computer program' means a series of instructions or statements executable on a computer, which directs the computer system in a manner to process data or perform other specified functions.

(d)   'Computer software' means a set of computer programs, data, procedures, or associated documentation concerned with the operation of a computer system.

(e)   'Computer system' means a set of related, connected or unconnected, computer equipment, devices, or software.

(f)   'Property' means and includes, but is not limited to, financial instruments, data, computer software, documents associated with computer systems, and computer software, or copies thereof, whether tangible or intangible, including both human and computer system readable data, and data while in transit.

(g)   'Services' means and includes, but is not limited to, the use of the computer system, computer network, computer programs, or data prepared for computer use, or data obtained within a computer system, or data contained within a computer network.

(h)   'Data' means a representation of information, knowledge, facts, concepts, or instructions that has been prepared or is being prepared in a formalized manner and has been processed, is being processed, or is intended to be processed in a computer, computer system, or computer network. Data may be in any form including, but not limited to, computer printouts, magnetic storage media, punched cards, or as stored in the memory of the computer or in transit or displayed on a video device.

(i)     'Access' means to gain entry to, instruct, communicate with, attempt to communicate with, store data in, retrieve data from, or otherwise make use of or attempt to make use of, any the logical, arithmetic, or memory function resources of a computer, computer system, or computer network.

(j) 'Computer hacking' means accessing all or part of a computer, computer system, or a computer network for the purpose of establishing contact only without with the intent to defraud or with malicious intent to commit any other another crime after such contact is established and without the use of computer-related services except such services as may be incidental to establishing contact. Computer hacking does not include the introduction of a computer contaminant into a computer, computer system, computer program, or computer network.

(k)   'Computer contaminant' means a computer program designed to modify, damage, destroy, disable, functionally impair, record, or transmit information within a computer, computer system, or computer network without the consent or implied consent of the owner. Computer contaminant includes, but is not limited to, a group of computer programs commonly known as "viruses" and "worms" that are self-replicating or self-propagating, and that are designed to contaminate other computer programs, consume computer resources, modify, destroy, record, or transmit data, or in some fashion usurp the normal operation of the computer, computer system, or computer network."

SECTION   3.   Section 16-16-20 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 16-16-20.   (1) It is unlawful for a person to wilfully, knowingly, maliciously, and without authorization or for an unauthorized purpose to do any of the following:

(a)   directly or indirectly access or cause to be accessed a computer, computer system, or computer network for the purpose of:

(i)     devising or executing any a scheme or artifice to defraud;

(ii)   obtaining money, property, or services by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises; or

(iii)   committing any other crime.

(b)   alter, damage, destroy, or modify a computer, computer system, computer network, computer software, computer program, or data contained in such that computer, computer system, computer program, or computer network or introduce a computer contaminant into that computer, computer system, computer program, or computer network.

(2)   A person is guilty of computer crime in the first degree if the amount of gain directly or indirectly derived from the offense made unlawful by subsection (1) or the loss directly or indirectly suffered by the victim exceeds five thousand dollars. Computer crime in the first degree is a felony and, upon conviction, a person must be fined not more than one hundred twenty-five thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both.

(3)(a)   A person is guilty of computer crime in the second degree if the amount of gain directly or indirectly derived from the offense made unlawful by subsection (1) or the loss directly or indirectly suffered by the victim is greater than one thousand dollars but not more than five thousand dollars.

(b)   A person is also guilty of computer crime in the second degree where:

(i)     he interferes with, causes to be interfered with, denies or causes to be denied any computer service to an authorized user of the computer service for the purpose of devising or executing any scheme or artifice to defraud, or obtaining money, property, or services by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises, or committing any other felony;

(ii)   he deprives the owner of possession of, or takes, transfers, conceals, or retains possession of any computer, data, computer property, or computer-related property, including all parts of a computer, computer system, computer network, computer software, computer services, or information associated with a computer, whether in a tangible or intangible form; or

(iii)   the gain derived from the offense made unlawful by subsection (1) or loss suffered by the victim cannot reasonably be ascertained.

(c)   Computer crime in the second degree is a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, for a first offense, a person must be fined not more than fifty thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than three years, or both. Upon conviction for a second or subsequent offense, a person is guilty of a felony and must be fined not more than fifty thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.

(4)   A person is guilty of computer crime in the third degree if the amount of gain directly or indirectly derived from the offense made unlawful by subsection (1) or the loss directly or indirectly suffered by the victim is not more than one thousand dollars. A person is also guilty of computer crime in the third degree if he wilfully, knowingly, and without authorization or for an unauthorized purpose engages in computer hacking. Computer crime in the third degree is a misdemeanor and, upon conviction for a first offense, a person must be fined not more than two hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days. Upon conviction for a second or subsequent offense, a person must be fined not more than two thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than two years, or both."

SECTION   4.   Chapter 16, Title 16 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section   16-16-25.     In addition to other civil remedies available, the owner or lessee of a computer, computer system, computer network, computer program, or data may bring a civil action against a person convicted under this chapter for compensatory damages and restitution. Compensatory damages and restitution may include:

(1)   expenditures reasonably and necessarily incurred by the owner or lessee to verify whether a computer system, computer network, computer program, or data was altered, damaged, or deleted by the access;

(2)   costs of repairing or, if necessary, replacing the affected computer, computer system, computer network, computer software, computer program, or database;

(3)   lost profits for the period that the computer, computer system, computer network, computer software, computer program, or database was unusable; and

(4)   costs of replacing or restoring the data lost or damaged as a result of a violation of this chapter."

SECTION   5.   Section 16-16-30 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 16-16-30.     For the purpose of venue under this chapter, any a violation of this chapter shall be is considered to have been committed in the county in which the violation took place; provided, that however, upon proper motion and the proper showing before a judge, venue may be transferred if justice would be better served by such the transfer, to one of the following:

(1)   In any a county in which any an act was performed in furtherance of any a transaction which violated this chapter;

(2)   In the county of the principal place of business in this State of the owner or lessee of a computer, computer system, computer network, or any part thereof of it, which has been subject to the violation; or

(3)   Any a county in which any a violator had control or possession of any proceeds of the violation or of any books, records, documents, property, financial instrument, computer software, computer program, or other material or objects which were used in the furtherance of the violation."

SECTION   6.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MARTIN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

ADOPTED

H. 4372 (Word version) -- Reps. G. Brown and Lucas: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME THE INTERCHANGE AT THE INTERSECTION OF INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 20 AND UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 15 IN LEE COUNTY THE "FELIX A. 'DOC' BLANCHARD INTERCHANGE" IN HONOR OF THE BISHOPVILLE NATIVE WHO SHARES HIS PLACE IN THE NATIONAL SPORTS SPOTLIGHT IN THE 1940'S WITH HIS PROUD HOME STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS CONTAINING THE WORDS "FELIX A. 'DOC' BLANCHARD INTERCHANGE".

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.

ADOPTED

S. 876 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Moore and Ritchie: TO FIX 12:00 NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2002, AS THE TIME TO ELECT SUCCESSORS TO CERTAIN SEATS ON THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT, COURT OF APPEALS, CIRCUIT, AND FAMILY COURTS. (ABBREVIATED TITLE)

Senator MARTIN spoke on the Concurrent Resolution.

The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator SETZLER, the Senate agreed to dispense with the Motion Period.

MADE INTERRUPTED DEBATE

H. 3141 (Word version) --Reps. Wilkins, Harrison, Walker, Simrill, Whatley, Delleney, Sandifer, Altman, Knotts and Thompson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-1-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CATEGORIZATION OF FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS, SO AS TO REVISE THE EXEMPT CATEGORY OF CRIMES; TO AMEND SECTION 16-1-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR THE VARIOUS CLASSES OF CRIMES, SO AS TO REVISE THE SET OF CRIMES THE MINIMUM TERM OF IMPRISONMENT APPLIES TO; TO AMEND SECTIONS OF TITLE 24, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PAROLE, SO AS TO ELIMINATE PAROLE FOR A CRIME, TO PROVIDE THAT AN OFFENDER MUST COMPLETE A COMMUNITY SUPERVISION PROGRAM BEFORE DISCHARGE FROM HIS SENTENCE, AND TO MAKE OTHER RELEVANT CHANGES, TO AMEND CHAPTER 26 OF TITLE 24, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENTENCING GUIDELINES COMMISSION, SO AS TO CHANGE THE NAME OF THE COMMISSION, REVISE THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION, AND TO MAKE CERTAIN OTHER CHANGES; TO REPEAL SECTIONS 2-13-66, 16-1-90, 16-1-100, AND 16-1-110 RELATING TO THE CLASSIFICATION OF FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS; TO REPEAL SECTION 24-13-100 RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "NO PAROLE OFFENSE", TO AMEND CHAPTER 1, TITLE 25, RELATING TO MILITARY, CIVIL DEFENSE, AND VETERANS AFFAIRS, BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN MILITARY PERSONNEL WHO ARE SENTENCED TO CONFINEMENT SHALL SERVE THE FULL TERM OF THE CONFINEMENT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, AND THAT ALL PROCEEDINGS PENDING AT THE TIME THIS ACT TAKES EFFECT ARE SAVED AND THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT APPLY PROSPECTIVELY. (ABBREVIATED TITLE)

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Bill was placed in the status of Interrupted Debate.

Motion to Ratify Adopted

At 11:20 A.M., Senator MARTIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to invite the House of Representatives to attend the Senate Chamber for the purpose of ratifying Acts at a mutually convenient time.

There was no objection and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

The House declined the invitation to attend the Senate Chamber for the purpose of ratifying Acts.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator GREGORY, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. E. B. Horton of Lancaster, S.C.

Time Fixed

Senator MARTIN moved that, when the Senate adjourns on Friday, January 18, 2002, it stand adjourned to meet next Tuesday, January 22, 2002, at 12:00 Noon, which motion was adopted.

ADJOURNMENT

At 11:32 A.M., on motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.

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