South Carolina General Assembly
113th Session, 1999-2000
Journal of the House of Representatives


Printed Page 1248 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Tuesday, February 22, 2000
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The House assembled at 12:00 noon.
Deliberations were opened with prayer by the Chaplain of the House of Representatives, the Rev. Dr. Alton C. Clark, as follows:

O God our Father, Whose blessings to us are beyond measure, strengthen us in our work, sharpen our insight, reinforce our judgments. May the light of God surround us, the love of God comfort us, the power of God protect us. So assure us of Your constant companionship that we may be calm in crisis, strong under stress, confident in the right--ever guided by divine truths that know no end.   This our prayer we make in praise and thanksgiving. Amen.

Pursuant to Rule 6.3, the House of Representatives was led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America by the SPEAKER.

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

MOTION ADOPTED

Rep. HASKINS moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Marina Ospina of Greenville, which was agreed to.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., February 17, 2000
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 418:
S. 418 (Word version) -- Senator Bryan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 23-47-50, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SUBSCRIBER CHARGES FOR E-911 SERVICES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE AMOUNT OF THE LEVY FOR EACH CMRS CONNECTION AT THE SAME RATE AS THE AVERAGE MONTHLY LOCAL EXCHANGE ACCESS FACILITY 911 CHARGE, AND TO AMEND SECTION 23-47-65, RELATING TO


Printed Page 1249 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

THE CMRS EMERGENCY TELEPHONE ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO REVISE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMITTEE AND TO DELETE THE COMMITTEE'S SCHEDULED TERMINATION DATE OF AUGUST 1, 2001.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., February 22, 2000
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 943:
S. 943 (Word version) -- Senators Mescher, Passailaigue, Grooms and Branton: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2 OF ACT 1093 OF 1966, AS LAST AMENDED BY ACT 603 OF 1971, RELATING TO THE GOOSE CREEK PARK AND PLAYGROUND COMMISSION IN BERKELEY COUNTY, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR MEMBERSHIP ON THE COMMISSION.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

INVITATIONS

On motion of Rep. FLEMING, with unanimous consent, the following were taken up for immediate consideration and accepted:

February 5, 2000
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201


Printed Page 1250 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On behalf of South Carolina Summary Court Judges Association the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a banquet. This event will be held at a location to be announced, on Wednesday, March 8, 2000, at 6:00 p.m.
Sincerely,
Levone Graves
President, Summary Court Judges Association

February 15, 2000
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On behalf of the Association of Public Library Administrators the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a luncheon. This event will be held at the Clarion Town House on Wednesday, March 8, 2000, from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.
Sincerely,
Dwight McInvaill
Library Director

February 15, 2000
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On behalf of Marion County business advisors - Marion County Progress - the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a breakfast. This event will be held in Room 221 of the Blatt Building on Wednesday, March 22, 2000, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m.

Sincerely,
Representative James A. Battle, Jr.


Printed Page 1251 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

February 14, 2000
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On behalf of the South Carolina Association of Tourism Regions (SCATR) the Members of the House of Representatives and staff are invited to a luncheon. This event will be held in Room 208 of the Blatt Building on Wednesday, March 29, 2000, from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Sincerely,
Tim Todd
Chair, Legislative Committee

January 19, 2000
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On behalf of the Transportation Association of South Carolina the Members of the House of Representatives are invited to a breakfast. This event will be held at the Clarion Town House on Wednesday, March 29, 2000, from 8:00 to 8:45 a.m.

Sincerely,
Sonia B. Spivey
President

February 15, 2000
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201


Printed Page 1252 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance had placed an 8:00 a.m. March 1 breakfast for Members of the House, then requested the date be moved to May 3. This event has been cancelled. Please make sure both dates are removed from the House calendar.

If you need more information or have questions, please feel free to contact us.

Sincerely,
James R. Morris, Jr.
Executive Vice President

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEE

Rep. TOWNSEND, from the Committee on Education and Public Works, submitted a favorable report with amendments on:

H. 4127 (Word version) -- Reps. Stuart, Cobb-Hunter, Gamble, Harris, J. Hines, Jennings, Lee, Littlejohn, Moody-Lawrence, Neilson, Ott, Rodgers, Simrill and Woodrum: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, AS AMENDED, BY ADDING SECTION 59-67-546 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD MAY ALLOW AN INDIVIDUAL TO RIDE A STATE-OWNED SCHOOL BUS OPERATED ON STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION APPROVED ROUTES ON A SPACE-AVAILABLE BASIS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES AND MAY ALLOW THE USE OF STATE-OWNED SCHOOL BUSES IN CONJUNCTION WITH A NON-SCHOOL RELATED ACTIVITY OR PROGRAM UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE THAT THIS PROVISION MUST NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A WAIVER OR ABROGATION OF THE STATE'S LIMITED IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY AND SUIT UNDER THE STATE'S TORT CLAIMS ACT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD SHALL INDEMNIFY THE STATE AGAINST LEGAL CLAIMS FILED AGAINST THE STATE DUE TO CERTAIN NEGLIGENT ACTS PERFORMED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.


Printed Page 1253 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Rep. TOWNSEND, from the Committee on Education and Public Works, submitted a favorable report with amendments on:

S. 924 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler, Moore, Mescher, Saleeby, Thomas, Giese, Courson, Short, Bauer, O'Dell, Alexander, Land, Washington, Elliott, Holland, Reese, Leatherman, Passailaigue, Hayes, McConnell, Leventis, Rankin and Glover: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT UP TO THREE SCHOOL DAYS MISSED ON EITHER SEPTEMBER 14, 15, 16, OR 17, 1999, BY THE STUDENTS OF ANY SCHOOL OF ANY DISTRICT OF THIS STATE DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 WHEN THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE FLOYD 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 1149 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews, Patterson, Anderson, Glover and Washington: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION INVITING THE UNITED STATES SURGEON GENERAL AND ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR HEALTH, THE CHIEF HEALTH OFFICIAL FOR THE COUNTRY, THE HONORABLE DAVID SATCHER, M.D., PH.D. TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION AT 12:00 NOON ON TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2000.
The Concurrent Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was taken up for immediate consideration:

S. 1162 (Word version) -- Senator Rankin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION DESIGNATING APRIL 5, 2000, AS "SOUTH CAROLINA AARP DAY" IN RECOGNITION OF THE EFFORTS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA AARP STATE LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE TO EDUCATE SENIOR CITIZENS ON IMPORTANT LEGISLATIVE ISSUES AND TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO TAKE ACTIVE ROLES IN THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS.


Printed Page 1254 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Whereas, the South Carolina State Legislative Committee of AARP is sponsoring a statewide "AARP Day at the Legislature" on April 5, 2000, a special day designed to educate senior citizens on important legislative topics and issues; and

Whereas, the undertaking by the AARP State Legislative Committee is highly worthwhile and beneficial to older South Carolinians and is certain to generate interest and attendance. Now, therefore,

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

That the General Assembly of South Carolina, by this resolution, designates April 5, 2000, as "South Carolina AARP Day" in recognition of the endeavors of the South Carolina AARP State Legislative Committee to educate senior citizens on important legislative issues and to encourage them to take active roles in the legislative process.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the AARP State Legislative Committee of South Carolina.

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

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

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

H. 4657 (Word version) -- Education and Public Works Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-135 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT LOCAL SCHOOL BOARDS OF TRUSTEES ARE ENCOURAGED TO DEVELOP POLICIES ADDRESSING CHARACTER EDUCATION; TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THESE POLICIES SHALL BE DEVELOPED, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL FURNISH ASSISTANCE TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN THIS REGARD.
Without Reference


Printed Page 1255 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

H. 4660 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE SURPLUS FISCAL YEAR 1998-99 GENERAL FUND REVENUES.
Without Reference

S. 437 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Matthews, Courtney, Patterson, Reese, Hayes, Jackson and Passailaigue: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-43-106, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INSURANCE AGENTS, SO AS TO PERMIT, RATHER THAN REQUIRE, THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS PRESCRIBING THE PARAMETERS OF THE CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS AND CHANGE THE COMPOSITION OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 38-77-580, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA REINSURANCE FACILITY, SO AS TO CHANGE THE COMPOSITION OF THE FACILITY'S GOVERNING BOARD; TO PROVIDE THAT NOTHING INVOLVED IN THE AMENDMENT OF SECTION 38-77-580 IN THIS ACT SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO AFFECT OR CHANGE THE REPEAL OF THIS SECTION AS SCHEDULED FOR JANUARY 1, 2006; TO AMEND SECTION 38-91-130, RELATING TO THE ADVISORY BOARD FOR THE JOINT UNDERWRITING ASSOCIATION FOR PRIVATE PASSENGER AND COMMERCIAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE, SO AS TO CHANGE THE METHOD OF CHOOSING BOARD MEMBERS AND PROVIDE FOR RELATED MATTERS; TO PROVIDE THAT NOTHING INVOLVED IN THE AMENDMENT OF SECTION 38-91-130 IN THIS ACT SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO AFFECT OR CHANGE (1) THE PROVISION IN SECTION 20(B) OF ACT 154 OF 1997 THAT STATES THAT CHAPTER 91 OF TITLE 38 SHALL CEASE TO BE OF ANY FORCE OR EFFECT AFTER FEBRUARY 28, 2003 OR (2) ANY OTHER PROVISION CONTAINED IN SECTION 20(B) OF ACT 154 OF 1997; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 38-77-585, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL GOVERNING BOARD MEMBERS OF THE REINSURANCE FACILITY, UPON THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ACT NOTWITHSTANDING THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 30 OF ACT 154 OF 1997 REGARDING THE REPEAL OF ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 77 OF TITLE 38 ON JANUARY 1, 2006.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry


Printed Page 1256 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 4658 (Word version) -- Rep. D. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND DAVID GENE PEARSON, OF SPARTANBURG, KNOWN IN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STOCK CAR AUTOMOBILE RACING CIRCLES (NASCAR) AND BY SPORTS WRITERS AND STOCK CAR AUTOMOBILE RACING ENTHUSIASTS AS "THE SILVER FOX", FOR HIS TRULY OUTSTANDING STOCK CAR RACING CAREER, AND HIS STERLING EXAMPLE OF SPORTSMANSHIP OVER MANY YEARS IN THE HIGHLY COMPETITIVE SPORT OF STOCK CAR RACING, AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM ON BEING NAMED BY SPORTS ILLUSTRATED AS THE TOP STOCK CAR DRIVER OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY.

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

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 4659 (Word version) -- Rep. Knotts: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND ERICA RYMER OF LEXINGTON COUNTY AND AN EIGHTH GRADER AT WHITE KNOLL MIDDLE SCHOOL AND REID COGGINS OF YORK COUNTY AND A SENIOR AT FORT MILL HIGH SCHOOL FOR THEIR SELECTIONS AS THE TWO TOP YOUTH VOLUNTEERS IN SOUTH CAROLINA FOR 2000 AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON THEIR RECEIPT OF THE SILVER MEDALLION FROM THE PRUDENTIAL SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY AWARDS PROGRAM; AND TO PROUDLY RECOGNIZE THE FOUR OTHER SOUTH CAROLINA STUDENTS WHO WERE AWARDED BRONZE MEDALLIONS AS DISTINGUISHED FINALISTS IN THE PROGRAM: LESLEY FONDREN OF NORTH MYRTLE BEACH HIGH SCHOOL, MORYAH JENKINS OF RIDGE VIEW HIGH SCHOOL, MONICA LEMMOND OF CLOVER HIGH SCHOOL, AND KRISTA SHIRLEY OF LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL.

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


Printed Page 1257 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

ROLL CALL

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

Allison                Altman                 Bailey
Bales                  Barfield               Barrett
Battle                 Bowers                 Breeland
Brown, G.              Brown, J.              Brown, T.
Campsen                Carnell                Cato
Chellis                Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Cooper                 Dantzler               Davenport
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Emory                  Fleming                Frye
Gamble                 Gilham                 Gourdine
Govan                  Hamilton               Harrell
Harrison               Harvin                 Haskins
Hayes                  Hines, J.              Hines, M.
Hinson                 Howard                 Huggins
Inabinett              Jennings               Keegan
Kelley                 Kennedy                Kirsh
Knotts                 Koon                   Lanford
Law                    Leach                  Lee
Littlejohn             Lloyd                  Loftis
Lourie                 Lucas                  Mack
Maddox                 Martin                 McCraw
McGee                  McKay                  McLeod, M.
McLeod, W.             McMahand               Meacham-Richardson
Miller                 Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Ott
Parks                  Perry                  Phillips
Quinn                  Rhoad                  Rice
Riser                  Robinson               Rodgers
Rutherford             Sandifer               Scott
Sharpe                 Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, F.              Smith, J.
Smith, R.              Stille                 Stuart
Taylor                 Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Walker                 Webb
Whatley                Wilder                 Wilkes
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Woodrum
Young-Brickell


Printed Page 1258 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

STATEMENT OF ATTENDANCE

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Tuesday, February 22.

John Hawkins                      Lynn Seithel
Bill Cotty                        Jackson Whipper
Lonnie Hosey                      Clementa Pinckney
H.B. "Chip" Limehouse             Chuck Allen
Harry Askins                      Anthony Harris
Ralph Canty                       James Klauber
Henry Brown

Total Present--122

DOCTOR OF THE DAY

Announcement was made that Dr. Terry Dodge of Rock Hill is the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

CO-SPONSOR REMOVED

In accordance with House Rule 5.2 below:
"5.2   Every bill before presentation shall have its title endorsed; every report, its title at length; every petition, memorial, or other paper, its prayer or substance; and, in every instance, the name of the member presenting any paper shall be endorsed and the papers shall be presented by the member to the Speaker at the desk. After a bill or resolution has been presented and given first reading, no further names of co-sponsors may be added. A member may add his name to a bill or resolution or a co-sponsor of a bill or resolution may remove his name at any time prior to the bill or resolution receiving passage on second reading. The member or co-sponsor shall notify the Clerk of the House in writing of his desire to have his name added or removed from the bill or resolution. The Clerk of the House shall print the member's or co-sponsor's written notification in the House Journal. The removal or addition of a name does not apply to a bill or resolution sponsored by a committee."

CO-SPONSOR REMOVED

Bill Number:   H. 4651 (Word version)
Date:   REMOVE:
02/22/00   MCGEE


Printed Page 1259 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

SENT TO THE SENATE

The following Bill and Joint Resolution were taken up, read the third time, and ordered sent to the Senate:

H. 4520 (Word version) -- Reps. Robinson, Rice, Webb and Trotter: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT THE SCHOOL DAY MISSED ON JANUARY 19, 2000, BY THE STUDENTS AND TEACHERS OF GETTYS MIDDLE SCHOOL IN THE PICKENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 WHEN THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED DUE TO A BROKEN WATER MAIN IS 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.

H. 4635 (Word version) -- Reps. Webb, Rice, Robinson and Trotter: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT STUDENTS IN ANY SCHOOL IN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PICKENS COUNTY WHO PARTICIPATE IN INTERSCHOLASTIC SOCCER OR AS A MEMBER OF A SCHOOL SOCCER SQUAD MAY PARTICIPATE IN ORGANIZED SOCCER WHICH IS INDEPENDENT OF THE CONTROL OF THE SCHOOL UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A SCHOOL OR STUDENT IN THOSE DISTRICTS IS NOT INELIGIBLE FOR PARTICIPATION IN INTERSCHOLASTIC SOCCER BECAUSE OF THE PARTICIPATION OF THE STUDENT OF THE SCHOOL AS A MEMBER OF AN ORGANIZED SOCCER TEAM INDEPENDENT OF THE SCHOOL'S CONTROL.

ORDERED TO THIRD READING

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

H. 4649 (Word version) -- Reps. Harris, Lucas, Neilson and Jennings: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT UP TO SIX SCHOOL DAYS MISSED IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY, 2000, BY THE STUDENTS OR TEACHERS, OR BOTH, OF ANY SCHOOL OF THE CHESTERFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 WHEN THE SCHOOLS WERE CLOSED DUE TO CONDITIONS CAUSED BY ICE, SNOW, AND RESULTING HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITIONS ARE


Printed Page 1260 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

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.

H. 4441--DEBATE ADJOURNED

Rep. CATO moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill until Wednesday, February 23, which was adopted:

H. 4441 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Cooper and Tripp: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-1-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN TITLE 40 PERTAINING TO INSURANCE, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITIONS FOR "EXEMPT COMMERCIAL POLICIES"; TO AMEND SECTION 38-31-100, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ORDER IN WHICH CLAIMANTS MUST EXHAUST THEIR RIGHTS UNDER INSURANCE POLICIES WHEN A CLAIMANT HAS COVERAGE UNDER MORE THAN ONE POLICY, SO AS TO ESTABLISH LIMITS ON THE AMOUNT A CLAIMANT MAY COLLECT FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE GUARANTY ASSOCIATION IF THE CLAIM IS AGAINST AN INSOLVENT INSURER; TO AMEND SECTION 38-61-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO REQUIRING AN INSURER TO HAVE ALL POLICIES, CONTRACTS, AND CERTIFICATES APPROVED BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS PARTICULAR REQUIREMENT DOES NOT APPLY TO EXEMPT COMMERCIAL POLICIES; BY ADDING SECTION 38-61-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN FILING REQUIREMENTS FOR EXEMPT COMMERCIAL POLICIES, CONTRACTS, AND CERTIFICATES; TO AMEND SECTION 38-73-10, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PURPOSE OF THE CHAPTER REGULATING PROPERTY, CASUALTY, INLAND MARINE, AND SURETY RATES AND RATE-MAKING ORGANIZATIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THESE PURPOSES PROVIDING FOR REASONABLE COMPETITION AMONG COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURERS OF INSUREDS MAKING LARGE INSURANCE PURCHASES; TO AMEND SECTIONS 38-73-340 AND 38-73-520, BOTH AS AMENDED, AND BOTH RELATING TO REQUIRING INSURERS TO FILE RATES AND RATING SCHEDULES AND PLANS, SO AS TO EXEMPT


Printed Page 1261 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

LARGE COMMERCIAL POLICIES FROM THIS REQUIREMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 38-73-910, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR OBTAINING A RATE INCREASE, SO AS TO EXEMPT COMMERCIAL POLICIES FROM THESE PROCEDURES.

H. 4450--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4450 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, Cato, Wilkins, Sharpe, Jennings, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bowers, G. Brown, H. Brown, Carnell, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Easterday, Edge, Gamble, Harrell, Harris, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, Hinson, Huggins, Keegan, Kelley, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lourie, Mack, Maddox, Martin, McCraw, McGee, M. McLeod, W. McLeod, McMahand, Meacham-Richardson, Miller, Ott, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Seithel, Simrill, D. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Taylor, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Walker, Wilder, Wilkes, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young-Brickell, Vaughn, Law, Stuart and Emory: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 15, TITLE 56, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO REGULATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS, DISTRIBUTORS, AND DEALERS, BY ADDING SECTION 56-15-45 SO AS TO PROHIBIT OWNERSHIP, OPERATION, OR CONTROL OF COMPETING DEALERSHIPS BY A MANUFACTURER OR FRANCHISOR EXCEPT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, PROHIBIT UNFAIR COMPETITION BY A MANUFACTURER OR FRANCHISOR AGAINST A FRANCHISEE, DEFINE PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT GIVING RISE TO A PRESUMPTION OF UNFAIR COMPETITION, AND EXEMPT SALES BY MANUFACTURERS OR FRANCHISORS TO THEIR EMPLOYEES AND TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 56-15-46 SO AS TO REQUIRE WRITTEN NOTICE TO A CURRENT DEALERSHIP OF THE INTENTION OF A FRANCHISOR TO RELOCATE AN EXISTING DEALERSHIP OR TO ESTABLISH A NEW DEALERSHIP IN THE SAME MARKET AREA, PROVIDE GROUNDS FOR INJUNCTION OF THAT ESTABLISHMENT OR RELOCATION, AND PROVIDE FOR EXCEPTIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 56-15-60, RELATING TO DEALERS' CLAIMS FOR


Printed Page 1262 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

COMPENSATION, SO AS TO LIMIT THE AUDIT PERIOD FOR INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PROGRAMS AND PROHIBIT THE DENIAL, DELAY, OR RESTRICTION OF A CLAIM PAYMENT UNLESS THE CLAIM IS MATERIALLY DEFECTIVE; AND BY ADDING SECTION 56-15-140 SO AS TO GRANT JURISDICTION FOR ACTIONS FILED PURSUANT TO THIS ACT TO THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF THE COUNTY IN WHICH THE PLAINTIFF DEALERSHIP HAS ITS PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS AND ESTABLISH RESIDENCE OF THE DEFENDANT ENTITIES IN THAT COUNTY FOR VENUE PURPOSES, NOTWITHSTANDING AN AGREEMENT TO THE CONTRARY.

Reps. SCOTT, J. H. NEAL, BALES, BREELAND, MACK and HAYES requested debate on the Bill.

H. 4470--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4470 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Battle, J. Brown, Cobb-Hunter, Harrison, Kirsh, Knotts, Leach, McCraw, Meacham-Richardson, Miller, Riser, Rodgers, Sandifer, R. Smith, Taylor, Walker, Bowers, Edge, Koon, McKay, Tripp, T. Brown and Huggins: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-5-170 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE KNOWING ACCEPTANCE OF PAYMENT FOR AN INSURANCE REFERRAL FROM A SERVICE PROVIDER, THE KNOWING PAYMENT BY A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR A REFERRAL, AND THE REGULAR PRACTICE BY A SERVICE PROVIDER OF WAIVING OR REBATING ALL OR PART OF A CLAIMANT'S CASUALTY OR PROPERTY INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLE ARE UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 39-5-40, RELATING TO THE PRACTICES TO WHICH THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT APPLY, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION THAT THE PRACTICES DESCRIBED IN SECTION 39-5-170 MAY BE REGULATED BY CHAPTER 57 OF TITLE 38 AND THIS ARTICLE.

Reps. SCOTT, J. H. NEAL, HOWARD, LLOYD, BALES, RUTHERFORD, J. HINES and MOODY-LAWRENCE requested debate on the Bill.


Printed Page 1263 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

S. 1108--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

The following Joint Resolution was taken up:

S. 1108 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE WORKERS' COMPENSATION COMMISSION, RELATING TO SETTLEMENT BY AGREEMENT AND FINAL RELEASE AND RELATING TO REPORTING ATTORNEYS' FEES FOR APPROVAL, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2470, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Reps. SCOTT, J. H. NEAL, LLOYD, RUTHERFORD, HOWARD, MOODY-LAWRENCE, BREELAND and MACK requested debate on the Joint Resolution.

S. 565--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 565 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler, Moore, Leatherman and Leventis: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 5, TITLE 29, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MECHANICS' LIENS, BY ADDING SECTION 29-5-440 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE RIGHT TO SUE ON A PAYMENT BOND, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES, FOR THE AMOUNT, OR BALANCE, UNPAID AT THE TIME OF INSTITUTING THE SUIT AND TO PROSECUTE THE ACTION TO FINAL EXECUTION AND JUDGMENT FOR THE SUM OR SUMS JUSTLY DUE; TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-3030, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PROVISIONS FOR BOND AND SECURITY AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO DELETE CERTAIN PROVISIONS RELATIVE TO THE RIGHT TO INSTITUTE SUITS ON PAYMENT BONDS, AND TO ADD PROVISIONS FOR, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE REQUIRED GIVING OF TWO WRITTEN NOTICES; TO AMEND SECTION 57-5-1660, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM, CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS AND PURCHASES, AND AMOUNTS OF AND ACTIONS ON CONTRACTORS' BONDS, SO AS TO DELETE CERTAIN PROVISIONS, AND TO ADD PROVISIONS FOR, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE


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REQUIRED GIVING OF TWO WRITTEN NOTICES; AND TO AMEND THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING SECTION 11-1-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO THE INSTITUTION OF A SUIT WHEN THE STATE OR A COUNTY, A MUNICIPALITY, OR A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THE STATE, A COUNTY, OR A MUNICIPALITY CONTRACTS FOR CONSTRUCTION AND REQUIRES THE PERSON OR ENTITY PERFORMING THE WORK TO FURNISH A PAYMENT BOND, NOT GOVERNED BY CERTAIN OTHER PROVISIONS OF LAW, IN THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE CONTRACT FOR THE PROTECTION OF PERSONS WHO FURNISH LABOR OR MATERIAL TO THE CONTRACTOR OR HIS SUBCONTRACTORS FOR THE WORK SPECIFIED IN THE CONTRACT.

The Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name NBD\AMEND\11768AC00):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/SECTION   1.   Chapter 5 of Title 29 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 29-5-440.   Every person who has furnished labor, material, or rental equipment to a bonded contractor or its subcontractors in the prosecution of work provided for in any contract for construction, and who has not been paid in full therefor before the expiration of a period of ninety days after the day on which the last of the labor was done or performed by him or material or rental equipment was furnished or supplied by him for which such claim is made, shall have the right to sue on the payment bond for the amount, or the balance thereof, unpaid at the time of the institution of such suit and to prosecute such action to final execution and judgment for the sum or sums justly due him.

A remote claimant shall have a right of action on the payment bond only upon giving written notice by certified or registered mail to the bonded contractor within ninety days from the date on which such person did or performed the last of the labor or furnished or supplied the last of the material or rental equipment upon which such claim is made. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of any claim against such payment bond by a remote claimant exceed the amount due by the bonded contractor to the person to whom the remote claimant has supplied labor, materials, rental equipment, or services,


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unless the remote claimant has provided notice of furnishing labor, materials, or rental equipment to the bonded contractor. Such written notice to the bonded contractor shall be personally served or sent by fax or sent by electronic mail or sent by registered or certified mail, postage pre-paid, to the bonded contractor at any place the bonded contractor maintains a permanent office for the conduct of its business, or at the current address as shown on the records of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. After receiving the notice of furnishing labor, materials, or rental equipment, no payment by the bonded contractor shall lessen the amount recoverable by the remote claimant. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of claims on the payment bond exceed the penal sum of the bond.

No suit under this section shall be commenced after the expiration of one year after the last date of furnishing or providing labor, services, materials, or rental equipment.

For purposes of this section, 'bonded contractor' means a contractor or subcontractor furnishing a payment bond, and 'remote claimant' means a person having a direct contractual relationship with a subcontractor of a bonded contractor, but no contractual relationship expressed or implied with the bonded contractor."
SECTION   2.   Section 11-35-3030(2)(c) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(c) Suits on Payment Bonds--Right to Institute. Every person who has furnished labor or, material, or rental equipment to the a bonded contractor or its his subcontractors for the work specified in the contract, in respect of which a payment bond is furnished under this section, and who has not been paid in full therefor before the expiration of a period of ninety days after the day on which the last of the labor was done or performed by such person or material or rental equipment was furnished or supplied by such person for which such claim is made, shall have the right to sue on the payment bond for the amount, or the balance thereof, unpaid at the time of institution of such suit and to prosecute such action for the sum or sums justly due such person. Any person having a direct contractual relationship with a subcontractor of the contractor, but no contractual relationship expressed or implied with the contractor furnishing such payment bond, A remote claimant shall have a right of action on the payment bond only upon giving written notice to the contractor within ninety days from the date on which such person did or performed the last of the labor or furnished or supplied the last of the material or rental equipment upon which such claim is made, stating with substantial


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accuracy the amount claimed as unpaid and the name of the party to whom the material or rental equipment was furnished or supplied or for whom the labor was done or performed. Such written notice to the bonded contractor shall be personally served or served by mailing the same by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, in an envelope addressed to the bonded contractor at any place the bonded contractor maintains an a permanent office or conducts for the conduct of its business, or at the current address as shown on the records of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of any claim against such payment bond by a remote claimant exceed the amount due by the bonded contractor to the person to whom the remote claimant has supplied labor, materials, rental equipment, or services, unless the remote claimant has provided notice of furnishing labor, materials, or rental equipment to the bonded contractor. Such written notice to the bonded contractor shall be personally served or sent by fax or sent by electronic mail or sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, to the bonded contractor at any place the bonded contractor maintains a permanent office for the conduct of its business, or at the current address as shown on the records of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. After receiving the notice of furnishing labor, materials, or rental equipment, no payment by the bonded contractor shall lessen the amount recoverable by the remote claimant. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of claims on the payment bond exceed the penal sum of the bond.

No suit under this section shall be commenced after the expiration of one year after the last date of furnishing or providing labor, services, materials, or rental equipment.

For purposes of this section, 'bonded contractor' means the contractor or subcontractor furnishing the payment bond, and 'remote claimant' means a person having a direct contractual relationship with a subcontractor of a bonded contractor, but no contractual relationship expressed or implied with the bonded contractor."
SECTION   3.   Section 57-5-1660(b) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(b)   Every person who has furnished labor or, material, or rental equipment in the prosecution of the work provided for in such contract, in respect of which such a bond has been furnished under this section and who has not been paid in full therefor before the expiration of a period of ninety days after the day on which the last of the labor was done or performed by him or material or rental equipment was


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furnished or supplied by him for which such claim is made, shall have the right to sue on such bond for the amount, or the balance thereof, unpaid at the time of the institution of such suit and to prosecute such action to final execution and judgment for the sum or sums justly due him;. provided, however, that any person having direct contractual relationship with a sub-contractor but no contractual relationship expressed or implied with the contractor furnishing the bond A remote claimant shall have a right of action upon the bond only upon giving written notice by certified or registered mail to the contractor within ninety days from the date on which such person did or performed the last of the labor or furnished or supplied the last of the material or rental equipment for which claim is made, stating with substantial accuracy the amount claimed and the name of the party to whom material or rental equipment was furnished or supplied or for whom labor was done or performed. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of any claim against such payment bond by a remote claimant exceed the amount due by the bonded contractor to the person to whom the remote claimant has supplied labor, materials, rental equipment, or services, unless the remote claimant has provided notice of furnishing labor, materials, or rental equipment to the bonded contractor. Such written notice to the bonded contractor shall be personally served or sent by fax or sent by electronic mail or sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, to the bonded contractor at any place the bonded contractor maintains a permanent office for the conduct of his business, or at the current address as shown on the records of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. After receiving the notice of furnishing labor, materials, or rental equipment, no payment by the bonded contractor shall lessen the amount recoverable by the remote claimant. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of claims on the payment bond exceed the penal sum of the bond.

For purposes of this section, 'bonded contractor' means the contractor or subcontractor furnishing the payment bond, and 'remote claimant' means a person having a direct contractual relationship with a subcontractor, but no contractual relationship expressed or implied with the bonded contractor. No suit under this section shall be commenced after the expiration of one year after the date of the final settlement of the contract."
SECTION   4.   Chapter 1 of Title 11 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 11-1-120.   When the State or a county, city, public service district, or other political subdivision thereof, or other public


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entity contracts for construction and requires the person or entity performing the work to furnish a payment bond not governed by Section 11-35-3030(2)(c) or Section 57-5-1660(b), for the protection of persons who furnish labor or, material, or rental equipment to the contractor or its subcontractors for the work specified in the contract, the following provisions shall apply.

Every person who has furnished labor or, material, or rental equipment to a bonded contractor or its subcontractors in the prosecution of the work provided for in the contract for construction, and who has not been paid in full therefor before the expiration of a period of ninety days after the day on which the last of the labor was done or performed by him or material or rental equipment was furnished or supplied by him for which such claim is made, shall have the right to sue on such bond for the amount, or the balance thereof, unpaid at the time of the institution of such suit and to prosecute such action to final execution and judgment for the sum or sums justly due him.

A remote claimant shall have a right of action on the payment bond only upon giving written notice by certified or registered mail to the bonded contractor within ninety days from the date on which such person did or performed the last of the labor or furnished or supplied the last of the material or rental equipment upon which such claim is made. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of any claim against such payment bond by a remote claimant exceed the amount due by the bonded contractor to the person to whom the remote claimant has supplied labor, materials, rental equipment, or services, unless the remote claimant has provided notice of furnishing labor or, materials, or rental equipment to the bonded contractor. Such written notice to the bonded contractor shall be personally served or sent by fax or sent by electronic mail or sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, to the bonded contractor at any place the bonded contractor maintains a permanent office for the conduct of its business, or at the current address as shown on the records of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. After receiving the notice of furnishing labor or, materials, or rental equipment, no payment by the bonded contractor shall lessen the amount recoverable by the remote claimant. However, in no event shall the aggregate amount of claims on the payment bond exceed the penal sum of the bond.

No suit under this section shall be commenced after the expiration of one year after the last date of providing or furnishing labor, materials, rental equipment, or services.


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For purposes of this section, 'bonded contractor' means a contractor or subcontractor furnishing a payment bond, and 'remote claimant' means a person having a direct contractual relationship with a subcontractor of a bonded contractor, but no contractual relationship expressed or implied with the bonded contractor."
SECTION   5.   Section 29-5-23 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 368 of 1992 and amended by Act 34 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 29-5-23.   Any person entering into a direct agreement with, or with the consent of, an owner for the improvement of real property may file with the clerk of court or register of deeds in the county or counties where the real property is situate a notice of project commencement. The notice of project commencement shall contain the following information:

(1)   the name and address of the person filing the notice of commencement;

(2)   the name and address of the owner or developer;

(3)   a general description of the improvement; and

(4)   the location of the project.

The notice must be filed within fifteen days of the commencement of work and must be accompanied by a filing fee of fifteen dollars to be deposited in that county's general fund. The name and address of the contractor must be posted at the job site. A location notice also must be posted at the job site. The location notice must contain the following statement: 'The contractor on the project has filed a notice of project commencement at the county courthouse. Sub-subcontractors and suppliers to subcontractors shall comply with Section 29-5-20 when filing liens in connection with this project.' The failure to file a notice of project commencement shall render the provisions of Sections 29-5-20(B) and 29-5-60(B) inapplicable. The failure to file a notice of project commencement shall also render the provisions of Sections 29-5-440, 11-35-3030(2)(c), 57-5-1660(b), and 11-1-120, relating to the requirement of a notice of providing labor, materials, or rental equipment inapplicable for a claim against a payment bond furnished by a contractor holding a direct contractual agreement with an owner. The filing of a notice of project commencement shall not constitute a cloud, lien, or encumbrance upon, or defect to, the title of the real property described in the notice, nor shall it alter the aggregate amounts of liens allowable under Section 29-5-40, nor shall it affect the priority of any mortgage filed before or after the notice, nor shall it affect any future advances under any


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mortgage. The clerk of court or register of deeds in each county shall maintain a separate book and index of all notices of project commencements."
SECTION   6.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. BAILEY explained the amendment.

Reps. LOFTIS, MCGEE, LEACH, KNOTTS, DAVENPORT, HAMILTON and EASTERDAY requested debate on the Bill.

H. 4378--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4378 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey and Littlejohn: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 10, CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE 3, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND OTHER PROJECTS, SO AS TO STATUTORILY ADOPT THE AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE CODE AND TO CHANGE TERMINOLOGY TO CONFORM TO THIS CODE; TO PROVIDE THAT ONE MEMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA BOARD FOR BARRIER-FREE DESIGN MUST BE A BUILDING OFFICIAL AND TO MAKE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION AN EX OFFICIO MEMBER; TO PROVIDE THAT THE BOARD IS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION; TO CLARIFY PROCEDURES FOR THE REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF BUILDING PLANS SO AS TO CONFORM TO OTHER STATUTORY PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO BUILDING CODES; AND TO DELETE PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO BUILDING CODE EXCEPTIONS, ENFORCEMENT, AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES SO AS TO CONFORM TO OTHER STATUTORY PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO BUILDING CODES.

Reps. SCOTT, J. H. NEAL, LLOYD, J. HINES, MOODY-LAWRENCE and MCMAHAND requested debate on the Bill.


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H. 4349--REQUESTS FOR DEBATE

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4349 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey and Littlejohn: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 59, TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS, BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 SO AS TO REQUIRE A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORIZATION FOR A FIRM TO PRACTICE RESIDENTIAL BUILDING, RESIDENTIAL SPECIALTY CONTRACTING AND HOME INSPECTING, TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR OBTAINING A CERTIFICATE, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION OF SUCH FIRMS.

Reps. SCOTT, J. H. NEAL, LLOYD, RUTHERFORD, BREELAND, F. SMITH, J. HINES and BAILEY requested debate on the Bill.

S. 139--DEBATE ADJOURNED

Rep. WILDER moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill until Wednesday, February 23, which was adopted:

S. 139 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Giese, Leventis, Russell and Reese: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 44, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HEALTH, BY ADDING CHAPTER 32 SO AS TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES FOR BODY PIERCING IN THIS STATE, INCLUDING PROVISIONS FOR REGISTRATION, PAYMENT OF FEES, INSPECTIONS, CIVIL PENALTIES, AND CRIMINAL OFFENSES AND PENALTIES.

H. 4644--RECALLED FROM SENATE

On motion of Rep. Lucas, with unanimous consent, the following Bill was ordered recalled from the Senate:

H. 4644 (Word version) -- Reps. Lucas, Harris, Jennings and Neilson: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 1010 OF 1968, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CHESTERFIELD COUNTY EDUCATION ADVISORY COUNCIL COMPOSED OF MEMBERS FROM EACH ATTENDANCE AREA OF THE COUNTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COUNCIL FROM EACH ATTENDANCE AREA SHALL SELECT ITS OWN OFFICERS AND TO PROVIDE THAT OFFICERS OF CERTAIN


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COUNCILS SHALL SERVE AS EX OFFICIO MEMBERS OF OTHER COUNCILS WITH SPECIFIED AUTHORITY.

H. 4644--RECONSIDERED

The motion of Rep. LUCAS to reconsider the vote whereby the following Bill was given a third reading was taken up and agreed to:

H. 4644 (Word version) -- Reps. Lucas, Harris, Jennings and Neilson: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 1010 OF 1968, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CHESTERFIELD COUNTY EDUCATION ADVISORY COUNCIL COMPOSED OF MEMBERS FROM EACH ATTENDANCE AREA OF THE COUNTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COUNCIL FROM EACH ATTENDANCE AREA SHALL SELECT ITS OWN OFFICERS AND TO PROVIDE THAT OFFICERS OF CERTAIN COUNCILS SHALL SERVE AS EX OFFICIO MEMBERS OF OTHER COUNCILS WITH SPECIFIED AUTHORITY.

H. 3786--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3786 (Word version) -- Rep. Fleming: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-40, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE TIME FOR CONDUCTING A PARTY PRIMARY AND THE CERTIFICATION OF CANDIDATES PLACED ON PRIMARY BALLOTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE CANDIDATES TO BE CERTIFIED IN WRITING, ADD SATURDAY TO SUNDAY AS A DEADLINE FOR CERTIFICATION WHICH WOULD BE MOVED TO THE FOLLOWING MONDAY IF IT FELL ON THOSE DAYS, REQUIRE THE WRITTEN CERTIFICATION TO VERIFY THE QUALIFICATIONS OF A CANDIDATE, REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO PROVIDE EACH PARTY WITH AN AFFIDAVIT WHICH MUST BE USED TO CERTIFY A CANDIDATE, AND PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO FILE OR FOR KNOWINGLY FALSIFYING AN AFFIDAVIT.


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Rep. FLEMING explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

H. 3804--SENATE AMENDMENTS CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration:

H. 3804 (Word version) -- Reps. Knotts, Whatley, Seithel, Koon, McGee, Wilkins, Harrison, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Beck, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Gilham, Gourdine, Hamilton, Haskins, Hawkins, Hinson, Inabinett, Jennings, Keegan, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Law, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lourie, Lucas, Mason, McCraw, M. McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Miller, J. H. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Phillips, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, J. Smith, Stuart, Taylor, Tripp, Trotter, Walker, Webb, Whipper, Wilder, Woodrum and Young-Brickell: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 23, TITLE 16, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO WEAPONS, BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS RELATING TO BOMBS AND WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION, TO PROHIBIT MANUFACTURE, TRANSPORTATION, POSSESSION, OR USE OF BOMBS AND WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

Rep. KNOTTS explained the Senate Amendments.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

MOTION PERIOD

The motion period was dispensed with on motion of Rep. HARRISON.


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H. 4017--DEBATE ADJOURNED

Rep. KEEGAN moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill until Tuesday, February 29, which was adopted:

H. 4017 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE FINDINGS OF LEGISLATIVE INTENT WITH RESPECT TO THE SPECIAL NEEDS OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AND CLINICS TO MAINTAIN MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY IN MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-123-60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ORGANIZATION AND POWERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL CONSTITUTE THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AND CLINICS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE A HIGH LEVEL OF MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY TO THE AUTHORITY AND REMOVE THE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS FROM CENTRAL STATE PROGRAM REGULATION OF PROCUREMENT, REAL PROPERTY, AND HUMAN RESOURCES, TO SET FORTH THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY; TO AMEND SECTION 8-11-260, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM STATE PERSONNEL POLICIES AND REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXEMPT EMPLOYEES OF THE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS FROM BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-17-370, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES, SO AS TO EXEMPT MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AND CLINIC EMPLOYEES FROM THE STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE ACT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-710, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE STATE PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO ADD AN EXEMPTION TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE FOR THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AND CLINICS.


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S. 226--DEBATE ADJOURNED

Rep. KEEGAN moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill until Tuesday, February 29, which was adopted:

S. 226 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 5-1-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PREREQUISITES TO ISSUANCE OF A CORPORATE CERTIFICATE TO A PROPOSED MUNICIPALITY, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE AREA SEEKING TO BE INCORPORATED TO BE CONTIGUOUS, AND PROVIDE THAT CONTIGUITY IS NOT DESTROYED BY AN INTERVENING NAVIGABLE WATERWAY, MARSHLAND, OR LOWLAND WHETHER OR NOT IT HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY INCORPORATED OR ANNEXED, AND PROVIDE THAT THE NAVIGABLE WATERWAY, MARSHLAND, OR LOWLAND DOES NOT PRECLUDE IT FROM BEING USED BY ANOTHER MUNICIPALITY TO ESTABLISH CONTIGUITY FOR PURPOSES OF AN INCORPORATION OR ANNEXATION PROVIDED THE DISTANCE FROM HIGHLAND TO HIGHLAND OF THE AREA BEING INCORPORATED OR ANNEXED IS NOT GREATER THAN ONE MILE.

S. 1020--ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 1020 (Word version) -- Senators Passailaigue, Saleeby, Hayes, Matthews, Patterson, McConnell, Ford, Reese and Courtney: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN CONNECTION WITH BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE AS A FINANCIAL INSTITUTION A FEDERAL OR STATE AGENCY WHICH LENDS OR INVESTS FUNDS, TO DEFINE "LOAN CALL" AND "LOAN CALL AGREEMENT" AND REDEFINE "LOAN LIMITS", AND TO PROVIDE FOR A WRITTEN LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN A CORPORATION AND ITS MEMBERS RATHER THAN A STATUTORY LINE OF CREDIT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAXATION OF A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE TAX EXEMPTIONS ALSO FOR A SUBSIDIARY CORPORATION; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-250, AS


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AMENDED, RELATING TO POWERS OF A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MAY NOT MORTGAGE OR ASSIGN ITS ASSETS EXCEPT ON A PRO RATA BASIS TO ALL PARTIES PROVIDING CREDIT, OTHER THAN FOR SHORT-TERM LOANS AND PURCHASE MONEY LOANS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF CERTAIN INDUSTRIAL AND BUSINESS ASSETS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS OF A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION'S SUBSIDIARY, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-450, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO VOTING BY STOCKHOLDERS AND MEMBERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR DETERMINATION OF THE NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL VOTES OF A MEMBER BY ITS LOAN LIMIT PURSUANT TO THE LOAN CALL AGREEMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-460, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOANS TO THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, SO AS TO DELETE STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS FOR LINES OF CREDIT AND PROVIDE FOR LINES OF CREDIT PURSUANT TO MUTUAL AGREEMENT, DECREASE FROM TWENTY TO TEN PERCENT THE TOTAL AMOUNT A MEMBER MAY HAVE OUTSTANDING AT ANY ONE TIME ON LOANS TO THE CORPORATION, TO PROVIDE FOR REVOLVING LINES OF CREDIT AND LEAD LENDERS, AND TO DELETE THE AUTOMATIC INCREASE IN LINES OF CREDIT OF MERGING ENTITIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 33-37-465 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MAKING AND SECURING OF SHORT-TERM LOANS TO THE CORPORATION BY A MEMBER.

Rep. GAMBLE explained the Bill.

Pursuant to Rule 7.7 the Yeas and Nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 96; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Allison                Altman
Bailey                 Bales                  Barfield
Barrett                Bowers                 Breeland
Brown, G.              Brown, J.              Carnell
Cato                   Chellis                Clyburn

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Cooper                 Dantzler               Davenport
Delleney               Edge                   Emory
Fleming                Frye                   Gamble
Gilham                 Gourdine               Govan
Harris                 Harrison               Harvin
Hawkins                Hayes                  Hines, J.
Hines, M.              Hinson                 Huggins
Inabinett              Jennings               Keegan
Kelley                 Kirsh                  Knotts
Koon                   Lanford                Law
Leach                  Lee                    Limehouse
Littlejohn             Lourie                 Lucas
Mack                   Martin                 McCraw
McGee                  McKay                  McLeod, M.
McLeod, W.             McMahand               Meacham-Richardson
Miller                 Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.M.
Neilson                Ott                    Parks
Perry                  Phillips               Pinckney
Quinn                  Rice                   Riser
Robinson               Rodgers                Rutherford
Sandifer               Scott                  Seithel
Sharpe                 Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, F.              Smith, J.
Smith, R.              Stuart                 Taylor
Townsend               Walker                 Whatley
Wilder                 Wilkes                 Wilkins
Witherspoon            Woodrum                Young-Brickell

Total--96

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the Bill was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

H. 4311--ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4311 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer and Emory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 36-9-301 AND 36-9-312, BOTH AS AMENDED, CODE


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OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BOTH RELATING TO ESTABLISHING PRIORITY OF A PURCHASE MONEY SECURITY INTEREST IN COLLATERAL OTHER THAN INVENTORY, SO AS TO INCREASE THE "GRACE PERIOD" FOR FILING FROM TEN DAYS TO TWENTY DAYS.

Rep. GAMBLE explained the Bill.

Pursuant to Rule 7.7 the Yeas and Nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 79; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Allison                Askins
Bailey                 Bales                  Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Breeland
Brown, G.              Brown, J.              Campsen
Cato                   Chellis                Cotty
Davenport              Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Emory                  Fleming
Frye                   Gamble                 Gilham
Harrell                Harrison               Harvin
Hawkins                Hayes                  Hines, J.
Hines, M.              Hinson                 Inabinett
Jennings               Keegan                 Kelley
Kirsh                  Knotts                 Lanford
Law                    Leach                  Lee
Littlejohn             Loftis                 Lourie
Lucas                  Martin                 McCraw
McGee                  McLeod, W.             Meacham-Richardson
Miller                 Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.M.
Neilson                Ott                    Perry
Quinn                  Rice                   Robinson
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scott
Seithel                Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, J.              Smith, R.
Stille                 Stuart                 Taylor
Walker                 Whatley                Wilder

Printed Page 1279 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Wilkins                Witherspoon            Woodrum
Young-Brickell

Total--79

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the Bill was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

H. 4337--AMENDED AND ORDERED TO THIRD READING

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4337 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, Quinn, Cato, Haskins, Loftis, Tripp, Vaughn, Riser, Easterday, Hamilton and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2010, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF TEMPORARY PERMITS TO SELL ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS, AFTER A FAVORABLE REFERENDUM, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE LOCAL ELECTION COMMISSION CONDUCT THE REFERENDUM NOT LESS THAN THIRTY NOR MORE THAN FORTY DAYS AFTER RECEIVING THE PETITION, TO REQUIRE A BOND OR GUARANTEE TO ACCOMPANY THE PETITION TO BE USED TO REIMBURSE THE COUNTY UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, TO REQUIRE THE PETITION FORM PROVIDED TO COUNTY OFFICIALS BE USED, TO REQUIRE THE ELECTION COMMISSION TO CERTIFY THE NAMES ON THE PETITION WITHIN THIRTY DAYS FROM ITS RECEIPT, AND TO REQUIRE THE REFERENDUM TO BE CONDUCTED NOT LESS THAN NINETY DAYS AND NOT MORE THAN ONE HUNDRED TWENTY DAYS FROM THE DATE THE PETITION IS CERTIFIED, OR AT THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTION WHICHEVER IS SOONER.

The Judiciary Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name GJK\AMEND\20958DW00), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/ SECTION 1.   Section 61-6-2010(C) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 462 of 1996, is further amended to read:


Printed Page 1280 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

"(C)(1)   Permits authorized by this section may be issued only in those counties or municipalities where a majority of the qualified electors voting in a referendum vote in favor of the issuance of the permits. The county or municipal election commission, as the case may be, shall conduct a referendum upon petition of at least ten percent but not more than twenty-five hundred five thousand qualified electors of the county or municipality, as the case may be, in not less than thirty nor more than forty days after receiving the petition. The petition form must be submitted to the election commission not less than one hundred twenty days before the date of the referendum. The names on the petition, which must be the petition form provided to county election officials by the State Election Commission, must be certified by the election commission within sixty days after receiving the petition form. In the case of a municipal referendum, the municipal election commission must hold the referendum on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each year or at the next scheduled municipal or countywide general election, whichever is sooner. In the case of a county referendum, the county election commission must hold the referendum on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each year or at the next scheduled countywide general election, whichever is sooner. The election commission shall cause a notice to be published in a newspaper circulated in the county or municipality, as the case may be, at least seven days before the referendum. The state election laws shall apply to the referendum, mutatis mutandis. The election commission shall publish the results of the referendum and certify them to the South Carolina Department of Revenue. The question on the ballot shall read substantially as follows:

'Shall the South Carolina Department of Revenue be authorized to issue temporary permits in this (county)(municipality) for a period not to exceed twenty-four hours to allow the possession, sale, and consumption of alcoholic liquors in sealed containers of two ounces or less to bona fide nonprofit organizations and business establishments otherwise authorized to be licensed for sales?'

(2)   A referendum for this purpose may not be held more often than once in forty-eight months.

(3)   The expenses of any such referendum must be paid by the county or municipality conducting the referendum."
SECTION   2.   This act takes effect July 1, 2000. /
Amend title to conform.


Printed Page 1281 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Rep. EASTERDAY explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

Pursuant to Rule 7.7 the Yeas and Nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 95; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Allison                Altman
Askins                 Bailey                 Bales
Barfield               Barrett                Bowers
Breeland               Brown, J.              Campsen
Cato                   Chellis                Clyburn
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Davenport              Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Emory                  Fleming
Frye                   Gamble                 Gilham
Gourdine               Hamilton               Harrell
Harris                 Harrison               Harvin
Haskins                Hawkins                Hines, J.
Hines, M.              Hinson                 Huggins
Jennings               Keegan                 Kirsh
Knotts                 Koon                   Lanford
Law                    Leach                  Limehouse
Littlejohn             Loftis                 Lourie
Lucas                  Mack                   Martin
McCraw                 McGee                  McKay
McLeod, M.             McLeod, W.             McMahand
Meacham-Richardson     Miller                 Neal, J.M.
Neilson                Ott                    Parks
Quinn                  Rhoad                  Rice
Riser                  Robinson               Rodgers
Rutherford             Sandifer               Scott
Seithel                Sharpe                 Sheheen
Simrill                Smith, D.              Smith, J.
Smith, R.              Stille                 Stuart
Taylor                 Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Walker                 Webb

Printed Page 1282 . . . . . Tuesday, February 22, 2000

Wilder                 Wilkes                 Wilkins
Woodrum                Young-Brickell

Total--95

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

Rep. WEBB moved that the House do now adjourn, which was agreed to.

RETURNED WITH CONCURRENCE

The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:

H. 4648 (Word version) -- Rep. McMahand: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR CORPORAL MARVIN GILLIARD, COMMUNITY PATROL OFFICER OF THE GREENVILLE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT, FOR HIS DEDICATION AND WORK WITH THE PEOPLE, ESPECIALLY THE CHILDREN, OF THE NICHOLTOWN AND JESSE JACKSON TOWNHOMES COMMUNITIES.

ADJOURNMENT

At 12:55 p.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. HASKINS, adjourned in memory of Marina Ospina of Greenville, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.

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