Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The House assembled at 11: 30 A.M.

Deliberations were opened with prayer by the Chaplain of the House of Representatives, the Rev. Dr. Alton C. Clark as follows:

We especially pray, O Lord, for Your good and wise guidance for those who are inaugurated into office this day in important places of leadership in South Carolina. Make plain Your way, O God, to Governor Carroll A. Campbell, Jr., Lt. Governor Nick A. Theodore, Secretary of State John T. Campbell, Treasurer Grady L. Patterson, Jr., Attorney General Travis Medlock, Comptroller General Earle E. Morris, Jr., Superintendent of Education Charlie G. Williams, Commissioner of Agriculture D. Leslie Tindal and Adjutant General T. Eston Marchant. Keep joined our hands with theirs as we together march to the drumbeat of Your leadership in effective service to our citizens and to our God - in Whose great Name 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 Rep. RUDNICK.

After corrections to the Journal of the proceedings of yesterday, the SPEAKER ordered it confirmed.

On motion of Rep. J. ROGERS, with unanimous consent, the following was taken up for immediate consideration:

H. 2170 -- Reps. Sheheen, J. Rogers and Wilkins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO INVITE THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT, THE HONORABLE JULIUS B. NESS, TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION ON THE STATE OF THE JUDICIARY AT 12:00 O'CLOCK NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1987.

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court, the Honorable Julius B. Ness, is hereby invited to address the General Assembly in Joint Session on the State of the Judiciary in the Hall of the House of Representatives at 12:00 o'clock noon on Wednesday, February 25, 1987.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be delivered to Chief Justice Ness.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced

H. 2171 -- Rep. Harvin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE SYMPATHY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF ROBERT EDWARD BRIGGS OF CLARENDON COUNTY UPON HIS DEATH.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced

H. 2172 -- Rep. Harvin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING FREEMAN MILLWORKS COMPANY ON ITS FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY AS A SOLID, STABLE, AND OUTSTANDING EMPLOYER IN CLARENDON COUNTY.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced

H. 2173 -- Reps. Limehouse and Day: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE DISMAY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPON LEARNING OF THE KU KLUX KLAN MARCH IN SUMMERVILLE IN DORCHESTER COUNTY PLANNED FOR SATURDAY, JANUARY 17, 1987.

Whereas, the members of the General Assembly have learned with dismay that the Ku Klux Klan plans a march in Summerville in Dorchester County on Saturday, January 17, 1987; and

Whereas, while the first amendment of the United States Constitution protects the right of the people to exercise free speech, even to express peculiar or loathsome views, the members of the General Assembly, together with an overwhelming majority of South Carolinians, by this resolution, choose to exercise their first amendment rights by condemning the Ku Klux Klan and the hateful and despicable beliefs espoused by its members; and

Whereas, South Carolina has been blessed with racial and ethnic harmony which is a tribute to the tradition of civility and good manners bred into the people of this State and such a march by the Klan is conducted for the sole purpose of stirring racial and ethnic disharmony which has no place in this State and especially in the hearts and minds of the good people of Summerville in Dorchester County. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the General Assembly express their dismay upon learning of the Ku Klux Klan march in Dorchester County planned for Saturday, January 17, 1987, and the good people of Summerville in Dorchester County are urged to ignore utterly the planned march.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the mayor of Summerville.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 204 -- Senator McConnell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND AND TO RECOGNIZE PASTOR GARTH SIBERT AND THE NORTHSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH IN CHARLESTON FOR THEIR STEADFAST SUPPORT OF THE UNITED STATES MILITARY SERVICE PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGH THE MILITARY MAIL PROJECT.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 205 -- Senator Shealy: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL BAND ON WINNING THE INVITATIONAL SOUTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR MARCHING BAND FESTIVAL SPONSORED BY UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA BANDS ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1986, AND ON FINISHING SECOND IN THE CLASS AAAA STATEWIDE PRELIMINARIES ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1986.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 206 -- Senator Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING TROOPER FIRST CLASS MARION LAYNE METTS OF PATROL DISTRICT 7 OF ORANGEBURG FOR RECEIVING THE "1986 HIGHWAY TROOPER OF THE YEAR" AWARD AND TO EXPRESS THE APPRECIATION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE HIGHWAY PATROL FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING SERVICE.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 207 -- Senator Land: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AT THE RECENT DEATH OF MRS. THELMA TONEY SLATER OF LEE COUNTY AND EXTENDING SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 208 -- Senators Wilson, Courson, Giese and Lourie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS OF THE LATE BETTY CHAPMAN BISSELL OF COLUMBIA IN RICHLAND COUNTY.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 209 -- Senator Mitchell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DENOUNCE THE OUTRAGEOUS STATEMENT THAT AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT IS HELD BACK BECAUSE OF THE LARGE NUMBERS OF BLACKS, HISPANICS, AND OTHER NONWHITES IN THE POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES MADE BY JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER YASUHIRO NAKASONE.

The Concurrent Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

The following was introduced

H. 2174 -- Richland County Delegation: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SYMPATHY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THE LATE MRS. CATHERINE C. MCBRIDE OF COLUMBIA, MOTHER OF OUR COLLEAGUE REPRESENTATIVE FRANK E. MCBRIDE.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following Bills were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:

H. 2175 -- Reps. E.B. McLeod, Blanding, Limehouse, Harvin, Rhoad, Williams, Davenport and Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-27-40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROFESSIONAL HOUSE MOVING, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A HOUSEMOVER PROCURE COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE PRIOR TO BEING ISSUED A LICENSE.

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 2176 -- Rep. Lockemy: A BILL TO REQUIRE A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER TO PROVIDE TO AN INDIVIDUAL, UPON REQUEST, A COPY OF ANY REPORT CONCERNING THE INDIVIDUAL'S HEALTH OR MEDICAL HISTORY WHICH WAS FURNISHED TO A THIRD PERSON; AND TO PROVIDE FOR CHARGING A FEE FOR THE COPY.

Referred to Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs.

H. 2177 -- Reps. Wilkins and Huff: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-1370, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS AND TERMS OF JUDGES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE TERMS OF FAMILY COURT JUDGES FROM FOUR TO SIX YEARS.

Referred to Committee on Judiciary.

H. 2178 -- Rep. Rhoad: A BILL TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF DENMARK-OLAR SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. TWO OF BAMBERG COUNTY TO ISSUE GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF THE DISTRICT UP TO ITS CONSTITUTIONAL DEBT LIMIT TO FUND AN OPERATING DEFICIT; 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.

Without reference.

H. 2179 -- Reps. Waldrop, Haskins, Blackwell and Limehouse: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-6-160, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUCTIONS AND AUCTIONEERS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE SOUTH CAROLINA AUCTIONEERS' COMMISSION TO ISSUE REPRIMANDS FOR MISCONDUCT WHICH DOES NOT WARRANT SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF A LICENSE.

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 2180 -- Reps. Waldrop and Limehouse: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-6-80, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUCTIONS AND AUCTIONEERS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS WHICH ALLOW THE EXEMPTING OF PERSONS ENGAGED IN AUCTIONEERING BUSINESSES ON MAY 24, 1977, FROM HAVING TO BE LICENSED AS AN APPRENTICE BEFORE BEING LICENSED AS AN AUCTIONEER.

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 2181 -- Reps. Waldrop, Hearn and Limehouse: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-6-30, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUCTIONS AND AUCTIONEERS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE METHOD OF SUBMITTING NOMINATIONS FOR APPOINTMENTS TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA AUCTIONEERS' COMMISSION.

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 2182 -- Reps. Waldrop, Blackwell, Haskins and Limehouse: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-6-60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSES FOR AUCTIONEERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT RECORD OF ANY APPLICANT MAY BE CONSIDERED BY THE AUCTIONEERS' COMMISSION IN DETERMINING WHETHER OR NOT TO LICENSE THE APPLICANT AND TO ESTABLISH A FEE FOR A CREDIT INVESTIGATION.

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 2183 -- Reps. Waldrop and Limehouse: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-6-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUCTIONS AND AUCTIONEERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT QUALIFIED PUREBRED LIVESTOCK AUCTIONEERS MAY BE EXEMPTED FROM EXAMINATION AND BONDING REQUIREMENTS BUT NOT FROM LICENSING AND LICENSE FEE PROVISIONS.

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 2184 -- Reps. Waldrop and Limehouse: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-6-140, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO FEES FOR AUCTIONEERS' LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THEY MUST BE ESTABLISHED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA AUCTIONEERS' COMMISSION.

Referred to Committee on Ways and Means.

H. 2185 -- Reps. Waldrop, Gentry, Haskins, Limehouse and Mattos: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-6-180, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUCTIONS AND AUCTIONEERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO DISCIPLINARY ACTION MAY BE TAKEN AGAINST A LICENSEE OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA AUCTIONEERS' COMMISSION WITHOUT A PUBLIC HEARING.

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 2186 -- Reps. Williams, Rhoad, Gilbert, Mattos, Holt, Taylor, Shelton, M.O. Alexander, Gordon, O. Phillips, K. Bailey, Keyserling, Ferguson, Harvin, Lewis, Arthur, J. Rogers, Wilder, Short, McTeer, Elliott, Rudnick, White, McBride, McElveen, Washington, Waldrop, E.B. McLeod, Whipper, J. Brown, Blanding, Faber and G. Brown: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 44, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 85 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA INTERAGENCY COUNCIL ON HUNGER AND NUTRITION AND TO PRESCRIBE ITS POWERS AND DUTIES.

Referred to Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs.

H. 2187 -- Reps. Keyserling, Evatt, T. Rogers, White, Toal, McEachin, Rudnick, Foxworth, J. Harris, Lewis, Shelton, Neilson, J. Rogers, Moss, Whipper, Hearn and McTeer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-1-230, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MARRIAGE LICENSES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MARRIAGE LICENSE FEE FROM ONE DOLLAR TO SIX DOLLARS, AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-1-370, RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF MARRIAGE LICENSE FEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE INCREASE IN THESE FEES MUST BE USED FOR BATTERED SPOUSE AND FAMILY VIOLENCE PROGRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES.

Referred to Committee on Ways and Means.

The roll call of the House of Representatives was taken resulting as follows.

Alexander, M.          Alexander, T.          Altman
Arthur                 Aydlette               Bailey, G.
Bailey, K.             Baker                  Barfield
Baxley                 Beasley                Bennett
Blackwell              Blanding               Boan
Bradley, J.            Bradley, P.            Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Brown, R.              Burriss, J.H.
Burriss, M.O.          Burriss, T.M.          Carnell
Chamblee               Clyborne               Cooper
Cork                   Corning                Dangerfield
Davenport              Day                    Derrick
Edwards                Elliott                Evatt
Faber                  Fair                   Felder
Ferguson               Foster                 Foxworth
Gentry                 Gilbert                Cordon
Gregory                Harris, J.             Harris, P.
Harvin                 Haskins                Hawkins
Hayes                  Hearn                  Helmly
Hendricks              Hodges                 Holt
Huff                   Johnson, J.C.          Johnson, J.W.
Jones                  Kay                    Keyserling
Kirsh                  Klapman                Limehouse
Lockemy                Mappus                 Martin, D.
Martin, L.             Mattos                 McAbee
McBride                McCain                 McEachin
McElveen               McGinnis               McKay
McLellan               McLeod, E.             McLeod, J.
McTeer                 Moss                   Neilson
Nesbitt                Nettles                Ogburn
Pearce                 Petty                  Phillips, L.
Phillips, O.           Rhoad                  Rice
Rogers, J.             Rogers, T.             Rudnick
Russell                Sharpe                 Sheheen
Shelton                Short                  Simpson
Snow                   Stoddard               Taylor
Thrailkill             Toal                   Townsend
Tucker                 Waldrop                Washington
Wells                  Whipper                White
Wilder                 Wilkins                Williams
Winstead

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Wednesday, January 14, 1987.

Lenoir Sturkie                    Robert A. Kohn
Larry Koon                        Grady Brown

Announcement was made that Daniel W. Brake of Charleston, is the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

The following Bill was taken up, read the second time, and ordered to a third reading:

H. 2002 -- Reps. Rhoad and Wilder: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 1 OF CHAPTER 7 OF TITLE 7, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LOCATION OF PRECINCTS AND VOTING PLACES, BY ADDING SECTION 7-7-55 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE VOTING PLACES FOR THE VOTING PRECINCTS IN ALLENDALE COUNTY.

On motion of Rep. WILDER, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 2002 be read the third time tomorrow.

Rep. KLAPMAN moved to adjourn debate upon the following Concurrent Resolution which was adopted.

H. 2113 -- Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE THE TRANSITION COMMITTEE PLAN FOR THE TRANSFER OF ALL NECESSARY OPERATIONS FROM THE CHILDREN'S BUREAU TO THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES.

The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:

H. 2109 -- Reps. Hayes, Foster, Kirsh, Nesbitt and Short: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE SYMPATHY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF MR. CHARLES A. REESE, JR., OF ROCK HILL, UPON HIS DEATH.

H. 2110 -- Reps. Hayes, Foster, Kirsh, Nesbitt and Short: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF DR. WATSON HAYES MATTHEWS OF YORK COUNTY UPON HIS DEATH.

H. 2166 -- Rep. Harvin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE MRS. MARIE M. LAND OF CLARENDON COUNTY UPON RECEIVING THE OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOL BOARDS ASSOCIATION.

H. 2167 -- Rep. Harvin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE JUDGE ANNELLE G. POWELL, CHIEF MAGISTRATE OF CLARENDON COUNTY, UPON BEING ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA MAGISTRATE'S ASSOCIATION.

H. 2022 -- Reps. Harvin, M.O. Alexander, T.C. Alexander, Altman, Arthur, Aydlette, G. Bailey, K. Bailey, Baker, Barfield, Baxley, Beasley, Bennett, Blackwell, Blanding, Boan, J. Bradley, P. Bradley, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, J.H. Burriss, M.D. Burriss, T.M. Burriss, Carnell, Chamblee, Clyborne, Cooper, Cork, Corning, Dangerfield, Davenport, Day, Derrick, Edwards, Elliott, Evatt, Faber, Fair, Felder, Ferguson, Foster, Foxworth, Gentry, Gilbert, Gordon, Gregory, J. Harris, P. Harris, Haskins, Hawkins, Hayes, Hearn, Helmly, Hendricks, Hodges, Holt, Huff, J.C. Johnson, J.W. Johnson, Jones, Kay, Keyserling, Kirsh, Klapman, Kohn, Koon, Lewis, Limehouse, Lockemy, Mappus, D. Martin, L. Martin, Mattos, McAbee, McBride, McCain, McEachin, McElveen,n McGinnis, McKay, McLellan, E.B. McLeod, J.W. W McLeod, McTeer, Moss, Neilson, Nesbitt, Nettles, Ogburn, Pearce, Petty, L. Phillips, O. Phillips, Rhoad, Rice, J. Rogers, T. Rogers, Rudnick, Russell, Sharpe, Sheheen, Shelton, Short, Simpson, Snow, Stoddard, Sturkie, Taylor, Thrailkill, Toal, Townsend, Tucker, Washington, Wells, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Williams and Winstead: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF MRS. LYNDA WALDROP KESLER OF NEWBERRY COUNTY, SISTER OF OUR ESTEEMED COLLEAGUE, THE HONORABLE DAVE C. WALDROP, JR.

Rep. O. PHILLIPS moved that the House stand at ease subject to reconvening for the Inauguration Ceremony and then stand adjourned upon the conclusion of the Inauguration, which was agreed to.

At 11:50 A.M. the House repaired to the south portico of the State House where it joined the Senate.

The Inaugural Party proceeded to the Speakers stand.

Sixteen years ago, as a freshman legislator, I participated in the inauguration of another governor, John Carl West. I remember being honored by the privilege of participating in a small way in the continuation of history.

Today, I am honored and humbled to be the 112th person to place his hand on a Bible and swear to uphold the laws of the state of South Carolina as Governor.

As I have taken this oath of office today, I have done so fully aware of our "goodly heritage."

From the beginning, over three hundred years ago, South Carolina has represented unlimited opportunity.

That is why we became home to courageous men and women who cultivated the wilderness.

That is why we became home to caring men and women who established churches and schools and health facilities.

That is why we became home to creative men and women who built our industries, grew our crops and introduced arts to the new world.

No guarantees of success were given to our forefathers, only opportunities. But, seizing the opportunities presented to them and working together, these visionaries helped South Carolina lead our fledgling nation in the introduction of new business and places of learning. South Carolinians were among the first to build a cotton mill and the first to plant rice for sale. We opened the first public library and the first college supported entirely by state funds.

Each governor before me has faced problems and challenges. History has swept the succession of governors through mega-changes: From the struggling Colonial Period...through a series of wars in which our young were giving their lives for their country...through depressions and recessions...good times and bad. These governors saw us go from flintlock weapons to nuclear warheads. Horse-drawn carriages to men on the moon. Pony Express to instant communications.

They also saw South Carolinians lead the way from the invention of the laser to the exploration of space.

Throughout the years, one thing is apparent: progress has been made and success achieved because people saw obstacles as opportunities and took advantage of those opportunities. Those who sought guarantees of success over the opportunity to dare to try never contributed to the true success of our state or nation.

Yes, we have a goodly heritage. Our values are strong. We believe in family and church and community. Through the years the basic goals and ideals of the people of South Carolina have remained intact. Parents want more opportunities for their children than they've had. We want the freedom to pursue our own version of the American dream. We seek the chance to serve others in our own way. And, our collective wisdom tells us there is a Higher Power who must be served as well.

These are the ideals that connect generations past and future. They are the constants in a sea of change.

Just over a year ago, I shared with you my vision for South Carolina -- a place where people have the opportunity to live and work, and raise their families in an environment that is clean and safe; where every child can grow up with the opportunity to receive a good education and a reasonable expectation of getting a decent job. A South Carolina where citizens have access to good health care; where our elderly have an opportunity to retire in dignity and walk the streets unafraid.

I want every child today to have the opportunity to rise to the height of his or her own potential.

As I take office today, the time for governing has begun. And with this time come obligations on my part and on the part of others who serve in positions of leadership.

It is a time to start building bridges that transcend political differences and personal preferences. It is time for all of us to throw away political banners and unite under the banner that reads -- "South Carolina: A State of Opportunity."

I will give every ounce of energy I possess toward this purpose!

But, I am sure there will be differences --strong differences which will receive full, open and fair debate. However, I am equally sure that beneath the debate over programs and ideas there will be a wellspring of goodwill flowing toward the common goal of providing unparalleled opportunity for all South Carolinians.

This is my goal. It is my purpose.

Toward this end, let me state that I believe in fiscally sound policies that are conducive to job creation through private sector investment and growth. I believe we must build on and meet the needs of the employers we have - manufacturing, farming, tourism and transportation.

We need more people working and paying taxes, not the same people paying more taxes.

Our role in government is to maintain the climate in which our citizens and businesses have the opportunity to prosper. To this end, we must recognize that the role of government is not to perpetuate programs or build networks of preferential treatment for a few. Government's role should not be one of finding new ways to spend tax dollars or solve problems that people can and should solve for themselves. And, government's function is not to ensure that everyone receives an equal share of the pie.

The overriding purpose of government is to do for our citizens that which they individually can't do for themselves and to ensure the climate exists for every citizen to have the opportunity to improve his or her own status in life by his or her own effort.

But, while we can't guarantee that every child will achieve success, we can have an educational system that creates the climate for each child to have the opportunity to succeed.

We can't mandate that every able-bodied adult obtain an honest job and be a positive force for society, but, we can seek to make sure that jobs are there for every person willing to give a good day's work for a good day's pay. And we can make sure that government is a positive force in encouraging work rather than a negative force whose programs may do the opposite.

And we can't guarantee every South Carolinian; good health. But we can seek to provide the opportunity to have reasonable access to quality health care.

Nor can we assure every small businessman and major corporate executive success if they choose South Carolina as a place to start or locate a business. We can, however, provide them with fair tax and insurance laws, reasonable regulations evenly enforced and a vibrant economic development policy that will assure that South Carolina is at the top of the list in providing them the opportunity to succeed.

And, while we can't guarantee every institution of technical and higher education provides every course for every student, we can provide a system of higher education that gives opportunities to all. From those who need remedial help to those who work and study in the public-private partnerships between our universities and businesses as they undertake research and development of new ideas and products.

To be honest, it would be easy to set our sights low this year -- and perhaps in future years. Our state is facing bleak fiscal prospects. We have locked ourselves into a pattern of spending that exceeds our income. Very little discretion is left with our lawmakers due to court orders and funding formulas. Government is going through another round of mid-year budget cuts. Five of the last seven years across-the-board cuts have been mandated.

Ladies and gentlemen, we're going to have to make some tough and yes critical decisions over the next four years. Many of these decisions will evoke a firestorm of protest from groups and individuals who'll be affected by them.

But, it's time we realized that all programs are not created equally and that yesterday's good ideas may not be so good today. We must have the wisdom to discern and the courage to change. We must differentiate between our wants and our needs and fund our needs first! We must stop constantly changing estimates of state revenue just to spend more money.

Contracts must be scrutinized closely and programs must be reviewed and changed or abolished if necessary.

Yes, it is tempting to lower our sights because of our problems. But, we dare not take the easy road into tomorrow. We must turn our problems into opportunities. Tomorrow will not fail us unless we choose to throw it away!

We have a mandate to tackle the tough problems because the future of generations yet to come rests on decisions we are about to make.

The children are our future. Regardless of status, race or any other false wall that society builds up -- I tell you that the well being of all of our children will have a top priority in this administration.

That means that parents will be expected to support the children they bring into this world to the best of their ability regardless of the circumstances that exist between the parents.

That means children must start out with a positive educational experience in the early years. That also means personal attention, which means lowering pupil-teacher ratios in kindergarten and the early grades.

It also means a system of learning that puts children first. Children spend the first five years in school learning to read. From then on, if they have learned to read, they read to learn. If not, they get lost. No matter the problems in public education, we can never lose sight of the fact that schools exist for the children and the children deserve the best in teachers.     The school system must be able to pay these good teachers so we can attract and keep them. And, the school system and the teachers must be held accountable.

And speaking of children and schools, let me tell you that drug abuse among young people is real. It threatens to undermine everything we're trying to do.

We must do more in educating children about drugs and prosecuting those who sell drugs. And, we will find the means to do it. Under my administration, the fight against crime will be waged with vigor.

But, education can't be viewed in isolation as an end to itself. It is a means to the goal of attaining a quality of life which is defined by each individual. The second part of the equation is jobs -- economic development.

We must have a diversified economy -- one in which a small or minority business person can grasp an idea and have an opportunity to test it in the marketplace. One in which indigenous businesses can expand. An economy which attracts corporations from all over the world because of our skilled workforce, natural resources and stable economic climate.

An economy that recognizes that the heritage of the family farm is precious and important to the future.

And we must recognize that no area of the state truly prospers unless all prosper; rural areas and major cities; lowcountry and midlands; Piedmont and Pee Dee. They all must be included.

South Carolina must be positioned for the next century. We must be able to compete with any state anytime for jobs.

Economic development must be the cornerstone of state government for the future. Without economic development we not only will be unable to provide jobs, we will be unable to pay for educational quality.

We already know there's not enough money to fund the Education Improvement Act from the additional one penny sales tax. With programs being cut tough short-term decisions are looming.

The only acceptable long term solution is economic development to pay the taxes to fund the programs.

The only alternatives to an aggressive economic development policy are general tax increases for the same people or lower horizons. Neither is acceptable.

For these reasons, I will spend more time and exert more effort on economic development and job creation than any other endeavor.

As education is the heart of South Carolina's future, jobs are our lifeblood.

However, all of our efforts to improve the lot of our people will be diminished if decisions we make in other areas continue to deplete their resources.

An example is in the field of insurance. Families and businesses alike are suffering under the high costs of insurance for their cars and their products and their businesses. These costs are affecting the quality of life of individuals and the competitiveness of our businesses and they must be addressed.

Yes, we have some serious business ahead. But, as we undertake our task, let us always remember that we must be sensitive to the needs of those who are less fortunate.

In just 13 years, our planet will celebrate a day that occurs only once every thousand years; the beginning of a new millenium. We are moving toward a new era which provides unspeakable challenges and unlimited opportunities. The steps we take will determine whether we enter the year two thousand boldly or timidly. As optimists who see opportunity, or as pessimists who see obstacles. With foresight of options or hindsight of doubt.

I believe today's vision can be tomorrow's reality. We can have a superior public education system!

We can create the jobs for our people!

We will create a society in which our senior citizens can retire in dignity and walk the streets in safety!

We will have a compassionate government!

We shall create a more efficient government which, by words and deeds proves itself to be open and above reproach!

And as we do these things, we may uncover the solutions to the social problems manifest in high infant mortality rates and teeming prisons and teen-age parents unprepared for adult responsibilities and the medically needy and the illiterate.

You may wonder why I am so optimistic.

I am optimistic and confident that we can meet any challenge because you the people of South Carolina are our greatest resource. Our goodly heritage is neighbors willing to serve and share as their talents allow. Citizens who fit the definition of hero.

Past heroes such as Francis Marion who battled the British and Andrew Jackson's mother who became fatally ill while caring for wounded and sick prisoners in Charleston. My grandfather, Dr. S.D. Campbell, who practiced medicine until he was 91, delivered over 6,000 babies and never sent a bill, taking only what people would pay. Burning his books late in life so no one he cared for would every feel the pressure of a debt to him.

Lost heroes such as Ron McNair who challenged the heavens and died in our quest for progress. And my brother Michael, who fought for freedom and died in our quest for peace.

Unsung heroes such as Lila Mae Brock in Greenville who cares for the needy and Johnny Zenoni in Columbia who feeds the hungry.

Everyday heroes -- mill workers, farmers, doctors, teachers, homemakers. All the men and women whose attention to their responsibilities -- whether they be in the home or office, factory or field -- will help make this vision I share with you a reality.

We have the will, the determination and the faith.

King Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, wrote these words in the Book of Ecclesiastes. He said:

"There is nothing better for man than to rejoice and do good in one's lifetime; moreover, that every man sees good in all his labors -- it is the gift of God."

Our challenge, therefore, is to do good...to provide opportunities for our people. That is the challenge.

Etched on our sword of state is the South Carolina state seal showing the Palmetto tree, a symbol of our strength in adversity, and the state slogan, "Prepared in mind and resources." With God's help we shall remain prepared and we will create opportunity!

At 1:45 P.M. the House in accordance with the motion of Rep. O. PHILLIPS adjourned to meet at 10:00 A.M. tomorrow.

This web page was last updated on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 1:38 P.M.