Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The House assembled at 2:00 p.m.
Deliberations were opened with prayer by the Chaplain of the House of Representatives, the Rev. Dr. Alton C. Clark, as follows:

O God, our Maker and our Sustainer, so many voices scream for our attention and cry out for our support. Enable us to judge between that which is good, and which is not. Make of us builders of bridges, not of barriers. Teach us to know that it is more important where we are going than where we have been; it is most important to stand blameless before God than to seek the applause of our fellowmen. Hear us, Lord, in our prayer made 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 yesterday, the SPEAKER ordered it confirmed.

Rep. STUART moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Tim Hutto of Neeses, which was agreed to.

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

February 4, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The Construction Industry Association, Carolinas AGC, respectfully requests the date of Tuesday, February 1, 2000, to host a reception for

Sincerely,
Stephen P. Gennett
Executive Vice President

December 17, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On Wednesday, February 2, 2000, the South Carolina Association of Christian Schools will host its 20th Columbia Conference and Legislators' Breakfast. We would like to invite the members of the South Carolina House to attend. Last year, because of scheduling problems, we had a luncheon meeting. That time of day also conflicted with other schedules. We are happy to once again be back on the breakfast time for our meeting. We have appreciated the support of the House Members in the past and we look forward to having them with us again. The breakfast will be at the Holiday Inn City Center on Assembly Street and will begin at 7:45 a.m. We promise to be through no later than 8:45 a.m.

Individual invitations will be sent from our office. In addition, many of our member schools will be contacting their Representatives personally to invite them.

Thank you for your consideration in getting this request on the calendar.

Sincerely in Christ,
Reece Yandle
Executive Director

Dear Rep. Fleming:

Pursuant to my telephone conversation with Doris, I want to inform you of the arrangements that have been made for Wednesday, February 2, 2000. On this date our new Bishop for the Diocese of Charleston, Robert Baker, plans to visit Columbia to tour the State Capitol. The Most Reverend Robert Baker has bestowed upon me the honor of formulating his agenda.

As an employee of the Secretary of State, Jim Miles, and an auxiliary member of the Legion of Mary at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, I have reserved Room 208 at the Blatt Building for a Legislative drop-in to be held from 12:00 p.m. till 2:00 p.m., serving hors d'oeuvres on Wednesday, February 2. All Constitutional Officers and Legislators are invited to attend. A two-hour span has been reserved to accommodate the schedules of all that wish to attend and facilitate a steady flow of visitation.

The purpose of the drop-in is to provide the Bishop and his legislative liaison with the opportunity to meet the extraordinary leaders of our State. Corpus Christi Legion of Mary will be hosting this event.

If you have any questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at work or home. I am home after 6:00 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Sincerely,
Patricia Hamby, Administrative Assistant
The Office of the Secretary of State
Auxiliary Member, Corpus Christi Legion of Mary

April 20, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

The Municipal Association of South Carolina would like to extend an invitation to members of the South Carolina House of Representatives to attend a reception on Wednesday evening, February 2, 2000, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., location to be announced later.

Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions, please call Nancy Walborn, Conference Manager for MASC, at 933-1205.

Sincerely,
Avery B. Wilkerson, Jr.
President

October 22, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The South Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Associate (SCAPA) would like to confirm the date of February 3, 2000, for a legislative breakfast. The event will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in Room 221 of the Solomon Blatt Building.

We look forward to meeting with you and your colleagues. If you have any questions about our request, please contact us at the numbers below. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Michael P. Criss, AICP
President
(803)734-9494
Sharon Richardson
Chair, Legislative Committee
(864)942-8709

Dear Rep. Fleming:

Please be advised that the Members of the South Carolina Supreme Court, the South Carolina Court of Appeals, the Circuit Court of South Carolina and the Family Court of South Carolina, plan to invite the Constitutional Officers of the State of South Carolina, the members of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina and their staff to "An Old Fashioned Pig Pickin and Barbecue" to meet with the Judges of this State, informally and personally on Tuesday evening, February 8, 2000, at the National Guard Armory, 924 Stadium Road, Columbia, South Carolina from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

If you should need any additional information, please advise. Thanking you in advance for your assistance, I am

Sincerely,
Judge Paul M. Burch

December 20, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The South Carolina Association of Council on Aging Directors (SCACAD) would like to invite the members of the Senate and House of Representatives to the annual Legislative Breakfast on February 9, 2000. The breakfast will be a buffet from 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. at the Clarion Town House, 1615 Gervais Street in Columbia.

The program is always very brief with a focus on the legislative agenda of the association. As you know, the association consists of the aging service providers who lead the focal point in each county and the agenda represents the basic needs of seniors across our State.

I would like to thank Doris Corley who has been so helpful in arranging this event on the House schedule.

Please contact me if there is further information required. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Lynn Stockman
President, SCACAD

October 1, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On behalf of the American Heart Association, I would like to invite all the members of the Legislature and their staff members to help us celebrate American Heart Month. In honor of this occasion, we will be hosting a breakfast event on Thursday, February 10, 2000, from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon in Rooms 221 and 215 of the Blatt Building. In addition to enjoying a heart-healthy breakfast, attendees can participate in health screenings and meet American Heart Association volunteers from their local communities.

We encourage the members of the General Assembly to join us for this special event. Thank you for your consideration of this invitation.

Sincerely,
Sabra C. Slaughter, Ph.D.
Chair, Heart Disease and Stroke Legislative Sub-Committee

August 17, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

I am writing on behalf of the S.C. Dental Association to extend to you, the members of the House and their spouses/guests an invitation to be our honored guests on Wednesday, February 9, 2000, at the Capitol City Club for a mid-day heavy hors d'oeuvres reception.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
James H. (Hal) Zorn, Jr.
Executive Director

December 21, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The Directors and Members of the South Carolina Transportation Council invite the General Assembly to a luncheon on Tuesday, February 15, 2000.

The luncheon will be held at The Summit Club at the Bank of America Tower, 1301 Gervais Street. Please join us from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. or at time of adjournment.

We look forward to visiting with you.

Sincerely,
Norma U. Hamer
Executive Director

January 4, 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 Funeral Directors Association, we would like to take this occasion to cordially extend an invitation to all members of the General Assembly and their senior staff for our Annual Legislative Reception. This reception is scheduled for 6:00-8:00 p.m. for Tuesday, February 15, 2000, at the Capital City Club in Columbia.

Please advise of any further requirements.

Very truly yours,
Mike McDaniel, President

Dear Rep. Fleming:

On July 21, 1999, I called and sent a letter to Representative Quinn requesting that the Annual South Carolina Nursery Association Legislative Breakfast be placed on the House of Representatives calendar of events for February 16, 2000. The breakfast will be held at The Capital City Club in Columbia from 8:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. When I called earlier today to confirm the date, I learned that you are now Chairman of the House Invitations Committee. I hope that you will consider and approve this request.

The members of the SC House of Representatives, the SC Senate and the Constitutional Officers will be invited.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.

Sincerely,
Tom Shirley
President, SC Nursery Association

June 25, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The South Carolina Baptist Convention would like to host the members of the House of Representatives to a noon luncheon on Wednesday, February 16, 2000. Seawell's Restaurant will cater the event at the State Fairgrounds.

We respectfully ask that this event be placed on the House calendar for the upcoming legislative season.

Sincerely,
B. Carlisle Driggers             Joseph A. Mack, Director
Director                       Christian Life Concerns

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The South Carolina Credit Union League would like to invite the members of the South Carolina House and Senate to a reception on Wednesday, February 16, 2000, at Seawell's. The reception would begin at 6:00 p.m. and end at 8:00 p.m.

We thank you for your kind assistance in this matter. Please contact Lisa Keeter or me should you have any questions. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Sincerely,
John R. Franklin
President

January 21, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The South Carolina Optometric Association wishes to host a Legislative Appreciation Reception, February 9, 2000, at a location yet to be determined in Columbia, South Carolina beginning at 6:30 p.m. and ending at 8:30 p.m. The reception will feature food, beverages and live entertainment for the members of the South Carolina General Assembly and other officers of State Government.

Should there be a conflict with this date, do not hesitate to contact me at 799-6721. I will notify the committee office once a location for the reception has been confirmed.

Sincerely,
Claire H. Holley
Executive Director

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The South Carolina Youth Challenge Academy at the Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School cordially invites members of the House of Representatives to attend a Breakfast Drop-in on February 17, 2000, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in Room 221 of the Blatt Building.

We look forward to hosting the General Assembly again this year and await your favorable reply.

Sincerely,
Pat G. Smith
Director

January 15, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

Please allow this letter to serve as a confirmation of the conversation with Ms. Doris Corley of your office. The South Carolina Association of Counties has issued an invitation to the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives and attaches to attend a Legislative Reception on Tuesday, February 22, 2000, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at The Embassy Suites Hotel in conjunction with the Association's Thirteenth Annual Mid-Year Conference for County Officials.

We would request that this event be placed on the House of Representatives Calendar for 2000. We look forward to having the members of the House with us on the evening of February 22, 2000.

Thanking you for your assistance and with best wishes, I am

Very truly yours,
Robert R. Nash
President

Dear Rep. Fleming:

This letter will confirm telephone conversations held recently with each of you concerning subject date.

SCANPHA requests placement on the Senate and House calendars for a drop-in coffee-biscuit breakfast in Room 221 of the Blatt Building from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 23, 2000.

It is my understanding from said conversations that subject date is available and that our request has been entered thereon. If there is other information to be furnished or procedure to be followed, please respond by correspondence, telephone or e-mail at your convenience.

I appreciate the helpfulness each of you have shown in making these arrangements and look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely yours,
Arlis C. Hinson, Jr.
Executive Secretary

June 22, 1999
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 Pharmacy Association, I would like to extend an invitation to the South Carolina House of Representatives, their spouses and staff upon adjournment on February 23, 2000, to join us at the Holiday Inn Coliseum for a reception to express our appreciation for your work in the South Carolina General Assembly.

Last year, the Governor and over 75 legislators as well as two hundred and eighty five pharmacists, technicians and pharmacy students from across South Carolina attended this event. Based on last year's participation we expect even more pharmacists to use this occasion to visits with their state legislators.

Thank you for your consideration of this invitation. We look forward to your favorable reply.

Sincerely,
Herb Hames
President

March 29, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

This will confirm a telephone conversation between Doris Corley of your office and Jan Gerhart of our office reserving Wednesday, February 23, 2000, for the Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina Legislative Appreciation Reception. All members and staff of the House of Representatives are invited to attend. The reception is scheduled to be held at the Adam's Mark Hotel in Columbia from 6:00-7:30 p.m. Our completed House Information Report for Legislative Functions is enclosed.

As always, we appreciate Doris' able assistance in reserving dates needed for co-op functions.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please advise.

Sincerely
Fred A. Cole
President and Chief Executive Officer

August 19, 1999
The Honorable Ron Fleming
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Rep. Fleming:

The State Farm Insurance Companies cordially invites all members of the House of Representatives to join us for lunch on Tuesday, February 29, 2000, during our 2000 Legislative Day at the State House.

Members are invited to join us upon adjournment of the House for an informal lunch on the State House Grounds.

Thank you for your assistance, and please let us know if additional information is needed.

Sincerely,
Mike Hargis
Vice President - South Carolina

Rep. LIMEHOUSE, from the Charleston Delegation, submitted a favorable report on:

S. 143 (Word version) -- Senators Passailaigue, Mescher and Ravenel: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 340 OF 1967, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CHARLESTON SCHOOL DISTRICT SO AS TO DEVOLVE THE BUDGETARY POWERS UPON THE CHARLESTON COUNTY COUNCIL.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

The following was introduced:

H. 4455 (Word version) -- Rep. Harvin: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND PRESTON B. FITZGERALD, SR., D.C., OF MANNING, FOR HIS VISION AND LEADERSHIP THAT LED TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NATIONAL BOARD OF FORENSIC CHIROPRACTORS AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM UPON THE OCCASION OF THE GRADUATION OF THE FIRST CLASS OF CERTIFIED INDEPENDENT FORENSIC CHIROPRACTIC MEDICAL EXAMINERS OF THE NATIONAL BOARD OF FORENSIC CHIROPRACTORS.

The Resolution was adopted.

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

H. 4461 (Word version) -- Rep. Fleming: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO WELCOME THE HONORABLE ALAN G. LANCE, NATIONAL COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION, ON THE OCCASION OF HIS VISIT TO THE PALMETTO STATE, AND TO EXTEND TO HIM THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2000, AT 12:00 NOON, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADDRESSING THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the House of Representatives welcome the Honorable Alan G. Lance, National Commander of the American Legion, on the occasion of his visit to the Palmetto State, and extend to him the privilege of the floor of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, February 23, 2000, at 12:00 noon, for the purpose of addressing the House of Representatives.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Honorable Alan G. Lance.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4463 (Word version) -- Reps. Kelley, Barfield, Edge, Keegan, Miller and Witherspoon: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME THE CONWAY BYPASS THE "VETERANS HIGHWAY" AND TO NAME SEPARATE INTERCHANGES ON THAT BYPASS TO HONOR RECIPIENTS OF THE MEDAL OF HONOR FROM EACH BRANCH OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The Concurrent Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

The following was introduced:

H. 4466 (Word version) -- Reps. Kelley, Barfield, Edge, Keegan, Miller and Witherspoon: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME THE CAROLINA BAYS PARKWAY THE JOHN B. SINGLETON PARKWAY TO HONOR THE MEMORY OF THE LATE JOHN B. SINGLETON OF MYRTLE BEACH FOR HIS UNMATCHED CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE CITY OF MYRTLE BEACH AND THE GRAND STRAND AND HIS VISION AND PERSISTENCE IN PROMOTING THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CAROLINA BAYS PARKWAY.
The Concurrent Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

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

H. 4456 (Word version) -- Rep. Bowers: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, BY ADDING SECTION 15 TO ARTICLE XVII SO AS TO ESTABLISH A SPECIFIED PROCEDURE FOR THE ENACTMENT OR REPEAL OF LAWS AND CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS BY INITIATIVE PETITION AND REFERENDUM AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 4457 (Word version) -- Rep. Bowers: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 15, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CIVIL REMEDIES AND PROCEDURES BY ADDING CHAPTER 44 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA GARNISHMENT ACT", TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES GRANTING A PERSON WHO HAS RECOVERED A CERTAIN JUDGMENT AGAINST ANOTHER PERSON THE RIGHT TO A WRIT OF GARNISHMENT, SUBJECTING THE SALARY OR WAGES OF THE DEBTOR TO GARNISHMENT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITATIONS, AND TO REPEAL SECTION 37-5-104 RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION

H. 4458 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato and Tripp: A BILL TO ENACT THE "SERVICE CONTRACTS MODEL ACT" INCLUDING PROVISIONS TO AMEND TITLE 38, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO INSURANCE BY ADDING CHAPTER 78, SO AS TO REGULATE THE SALE OF SERVICE CONTRACTS FOR THE REPAIR, REPLACEMENT, OR MAINTENANCE OF PROPERTY NORMALLY USED FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY, OR HOUSEHOLD PURPOSES, EXCLUDING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, WARRANTIES AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENTS; TO REQUIRE ADMINISTRATORS OF SERVICE CONTRACTS TO REGISTER WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE; TO REQUIRE THOSE PROVIDING SERVICE UNDER A CONTRACT TO DEMONSTRATE FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY; TO PROVIDE FOR THE REQUIREMENTS OF A REIMBURSEMENT POLICY WHEN SUCH A POLICY INSURES A SERVICE CONTRACT; TO SPECIFY THE FORM AND CONTENT OF SERVICE CONTRACTS; TO REQUIRE SERVICE CONTRACT ADMINISTRATORS TO MAINTAIN ACCURATE ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS; TO AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO CONDUCT INVESTIGATIONS AND HEARINGS IN ENFORCING THE PROVISIONS OF THIS CHAPTER; AND TO PROVIDE CIVIL PENALTIES.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

H. 4459 (Word version) -- Rep. Tripp: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE TWO HUNDRED TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS FROM THE GENERAL FUND OF THE STATE, REPRESENTING ONE DOLLAR FOR EACH SOUTH CAROLINIAN WHO SERVED IN THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES DURING WORLD WAR II AS THIS STATE'S CONTRIBUTION TOWARD THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL ON THE MALL IN WASHINGTON, D.C.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

H. 4462 (Word version) -- Reps. Young-Brickell, Cobb-Hunter, Bailey and Chellis: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT UP TO TWO SCHOOL DAYS MISSED BY THE STUDENTS AND TEACHERS OF ANY SCHOOL OF DORCHESTER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 WHEN THE SCHOOLS WERE CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE FLOYD INCLUDING THE FLOODING THAT FOLLOWED 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.
On motion of Rep. YOUNG-BRICKELL, with unanimous consent, the Joint Resolution was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

H. 4464 (Word version) -- Rep. Haskins: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-55-90, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PERSONS EXEMPT FROM PSYCHOLOGY LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO ADD AN EXEMPTION FOR PERSONS WHO ADMINISTER, SCORE, AND INTERPRET VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL TESTS FOR THE PURPOSE OF

H. 4465 (Word version) -- Rep. McGee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 23-43-130, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ACCEPTANCE OF A MODULAR BUILDING UNIT AS BEING EQUIVALENT TO A SITE-BUILT UNIT MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF SAFETY TO LIFE, HEALTH, AND PROPERTY IMPOSED BY ORDINANCE OF A LOCAL GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO DELETE A PROVISION WHICH PROHIBITS A LOCAL GOVERNMENT FROM DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN A MODULAR BUILDING AND A BUILDING CONSTRUCTED ON SITE FOR PURPOSES OF CERTAIN LAND USE, ZONING, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

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

Allen                  Allison                Altman
Bailey                 Bales                  Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Beck
Bowers                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, H.              Brown, J.              Brown, T.
Campsen                Carnell                Chellis
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Cooper
Cotty                  Dantzler               Davenport
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Emory                  Fleming                Frye
Gamble                 Gilham                 Gourdine
Govan                  Hamilton               Harrell
Harris                 Harrison               Harvin
Haskins                Hawkins                Hayes
Hines, J.              Hines, M.              Hinson
Hosey                  Howard                 Huggins
Inabinett              Jennings               Keegan
Kelley                 Kennedy                Kirsh
Knotts                 Koon                   Lanford
Leach                  Lee                    Limehouse

Littlejohn             Lloyd                  Loftis
Lourie                 Lucas                  Mack
Martin                 McCraw                 McGee
McKay                  McLeod, M.             McLeod, W.
Meacham-Richardson     Miller                 Moody-Lawrence
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Ott
Parks                  Perry                  Phillips
Pinckney               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                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   Whatley                Wilder
Wilkes                 Wilkins                Witherspoon
Young-Brickell

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Wednesday, January 19.

Harry Cato                        J. Cordell Maddox
James Law                         Richard Quinn
Joseph Neal

The SPEAKER granted Rep. WHIPPER a leave of absence for the week due to being in court.

Announcement was made that Dr. Charlie Thomas of Simpsonville is the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

In accordance with House Rule 5.2 below:
"5.2   Every bill before presentation shall have its title endorsed; every report, its title at length; every petition, memorial, or other paper, its prayer or substance; and, in every instance, the name of the member

Bill Number:   H. 4416 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/19/00   RISER

Bill Number:   H. 4394 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/19/00   SEITHEL

Bill Number:   H. 4384 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/19/00   SEITHEL

Bill Number:   H. 3317 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
01/19/00   RICE

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

H. 4267 (Word version) -- Rep. D. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 856 OF 1964, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE WHITNEY AREA FIRE DISTRICT IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY, SO AS TO INCREASE

Rep. ALLISON moved to adjourn debate on the motion to reconsider, which was agreed to.

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

H. 4275 (Word version) -- Rep. Battle: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL DAYS MISSED ON SEPTEMBER 15, 16, AND 17, 1999, BY THE STUDENTS OF MARION COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NUMBER 2, THE MULLINS SCHOOL DISTRICT, DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 WHEN THE SCHOOLS WERE CLOSED BECAUSE OF HURRICANE FLOYD ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE STATUTORY MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT.

H. 4328 (Word version) -- Rep. Battle: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL DAYS MISSED ON SEPTEMBER 15 AND 16, 1999, BY THE STUDENTS OF MARION COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS NUMBER 1, 3, AND 4 DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 WHEN THE SCHOOLS WERE CLOSED BECAUSE OF HURRICANE FLOYD ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT OF THE DEFINED MINIMUM PLAN THAT FULL SCHOOL DAYS MISSED DUE TO THE EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES BE MADE UP.

The following Bill was taken up, read the third time, and ordered returned to the Senate with amendments:

S. 199 (Word version) -- Senators J. V. Smith, Wilson, Giese and Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-2915 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO ISSUE A REGISTRATION STATEMENT FOR A RELIGIOUS DAY CARE CENTER WHEN REQUIREMENTS ARE MET AND TO REQUIRE THE CENTER OPERATOR TO DISPLAY THE REGISTRATION

The following Bill was read the third time, passed and, 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:

S. 709 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 16-13-185, SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL TO INTENTIONALLY LEAVE AN ESTABLISHMENT WITHOUT MAKING PAYMENT FOR GASOLINE THAT IS DISPENSED INTO A MOTOR VEHICLE; AND BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-292, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE FOR VIOLATIONS OF SECTION 16-13-185.

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

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3382 (Word version) -- Reps. Moody-Lawrence, Rutherford, Howard, W. McLeod, Canty, J. Hines, Gourdine, Mack, Whipper, F. Smith, Breeland, Cobb-Hunter, Ott, Martin, McGee, Clyburn, Inabinett, Lloyd, Kennedy, Cave, Wilkes, Jennings, T. Brown, Lee, McMahand, Pinckney, Harvin, M. Hines, Hayes and M. McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-345 SO AS TO REQUIRE A FEMALE WHO IS PREGNANT, UNMARRIED, AND UNDER EIGHTEEN TO COMPLETE A PREGNANCY PREVENTION EDUCATION COURSE CONDUCTED BY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENTS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE COURSE CONTENT, TO REQUIRE PROFESSIONALS PROVIDING HEALTH CARE TO REFER THESE WOMEN TO THE APPROPRIATE HEALTH DEPARTMENT AS A COMPONENT OF THEIR HEALTH CARE, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL TO CONDUCT A STUDY AND REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON DEVELOPING A SIMILAR COURSE FOR MEN.

"Section 44-41-345.   A female who qualifies for and receives TANF and who is pregnant, unmarried, and under eighteen years of age shall attend and complete a pregnancy prevention education course approved by the Department of Health and Environmental Control. The department must approve and offer to each person required to take a pregnancy prevention course, at least one course that provides an abstinence-only curriculum, and at least one course that offers instruction on birth control methods. Each approved course must also include education about sexually transmitted diseases. Courses of each type must be offered and conducted without charge by the several county health departments of this State. Health care professionals who are providing care to these females shall refer them to the appropriate county health department and inform them that attendance and completion of this course is a required component of their care." /
Amend title to conform.

Rep. CAMPSEN explained the amendment.

Rep. CAMPSEN continued speaking.
Rep. MOODY-LAWRENCE spoke against the amendment.

Rep. J. BROWN moved to table the amendment.

Rep. LOFTIS demanded the yeas and nays which were taken, resulting as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Bailey                 Battle
Bowers                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, J.              Brown, T.              Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter            Emory                  Gourdine
Govan                  Harvin                 Hayes
Hines, J.              Hines, M.              Hosey

Inabinett              Jennings               Kennedy
Lee                    Limehouse              Lloyd
Mack                   Maddox                 Martin
McLeod, M.             McLeod, W.             Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.             Neal, J.M.
Parks                  Pinckney               Rhoad
Rutherford             Scott                  Smith, F.
Smith, J.              Wilder                 Wilkes

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allison                Altman                 Bales
Barrett                Beck                   Brown, H.
Campsen                Carnell                Chellis
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Davenport              Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Fleming                Frye
Gamble                 Gilham                 Hamilton
Harrell                Harris                 Harrison
Haskins                Hawkins                Hinson
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Kirsh                  Knotts                 Koon
Lanford                Law                    Leach
Littlejohn             Loftis                 Lourie
Lucas                  McCraw                 McGee
McKay                  Meacham-Richardson     Ott
Perry                  Phillips               Quinn
Rice                   Riser                  Robinson
Rodgers                Sandifer               Seithel
Sharpe                 Simrill                Smith, D.
Smith, R.              Stuart                 Taylor
Tripp                  Trotter                Vaughn
Walker                 Webb                   Whatley
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Young-Brickell

So, the House refused to table the amendment.

The question then recurred to the adoption of the amendment.

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Allison                Altman
Barfield               Barrett                Beck
Brown, H.              Campsen                Carnell
Chellis                Cotty                  Dantzler
Davenport              Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Emory                  Frye
Gamble                 Gilham                 Hamilton
Harrell                Harris                 Harrison
Haskins                Hawkins                Hinson
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Kirsh                  Knotts                 Koon
Lanford                Law                    Leach
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Loftis
Lourie                 Lucas                  Maddox
McCraw                 McGee                  Meacham-Richardson
Neal, J.M.             Neilson                Ott
Perry                  Phillips               Quinn
Rice                   Riser                  Robinson
Rodgers                Sandifer               Seithel
Sharpe                 Simrill                Smith, D.
Smith, J.              Smith, R.              Stuart
Taylor                 Townsend               Tripp
Vaughn                 Walker                 Webb
Whatley                Wilder                 Wilkins
Witherspoon            Young-Brickell

Those who voted in the negative are:

Bailey                 Bales                  Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, J.
Brown, T.              Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Gourdine               Govan                  Hayes
Hines, J.              Hines, M.              Hosey
Kennedy                Lee                    Lloyd
Mack                   Martin                 McLeod, W.

Moody-Lawrence         Neal, J.H.             Parks
Pinckney               Rutherford             Scott
Smith, F.

So, the amendment was adopted.

I intended to vote no on the tabling motion on H. 3382.
Rep. LIMEHOUSE

Rep. J. BROWN moved to recommit the Bill, which was agreed to.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3317 (Word version) -- Reps. Sharpe, Davenport, Witherspoon, R. Smith, Limehouse, Altman and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 44-96-85 SO AS TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS THAT APPLY TO THE DISPLACEMENT OF A PRIVATE COMPANY PROVIDING COLLECTION SERVICES FOR SOLID WASTE OR RECOVERED MATERIALS OR BOTH.

THE AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name GJK\AMEND\20769DJC99), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/SECTION   1.   Chapter 96, Title 44 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 44-96-85.   (A)   For purposes of this section:

(1)   'Displace' means any action by a local government which prohibits or has the effect of prohibiting a private company from providing all or a portion of the collection services for solid waste or recovered materials or both which the company is providing at the time of final approval of the action which would displace the private company. Provided, the term 'displace' does not include:

(a)   situations where a local government, at the end of a franchise agreement or contract with a private company, does not renew the franchise agreement or contract and, following a competitive procurement process, either awards the contract to another private company or public entity or decides to provide such collection services itself; or

(b)   situations where action is taken against a private company because the company's operations present an imminent and substantial threat to human health and safety or are causing a substantial public nuisance.

(2)   'Local government' means a county, municipality, authority, or political subdivision which is authorized by law to provide for collection of solid waste or recovered materials or both.

(B)     Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a local government must not displace a private company providing collection services for solid waste or recovered materials or both unless the local government complies with the requirements of subsections (C) and (D) of this section.

(C)   Prior to displacing a private company, the local government must provide public notice of the intent to take an action which will displace a private company by publishing notice of such intent in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the area in which the local government and the proposed displacement area are located thirty days prior to the first vote by the governing body of the local government on approval of the action to displace a private company. The notice shall specify the area or areas in which a private company will be displaced.

(D)   Following the public notice required by subsection (C) of this section, but in no event longer than six months after the public notice pursuant to subsection (C), the local government may proceed to take measures necessary to provide collection services for solid waste or recovered materials or both; provided, however, that the local government or other public or private entity selected by the local government may not commence the actual provision of these services unless the local government provides a one-year notice which shall run from the date of final approval of the action which would displace a private company, except that if the private company ceases to provide these services, this notice period terminates and the local government may proceed to provide these services itself or through another public or private entity.

(E)   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, if a local government violates a one-year notice period provided for in

(F)   This section does not apply to actions taken by a local government pursuant to a contract or franchise between that local government and a private company providing collection services under the contract or franchise. This section further does not apply to the transport of solid waste or recovered materials or both from a transfer station or convenience center owned or operated by a local government."
SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend totals and title to conform.

Rep. DAVENPORT explained the amendment.

Rep. WILDER raised the Point of Order that Amendment No. 1 was out of order in that there was no local impact statement and the amendment was therefore improperly before the House.
Rep. DAVENPORT argued contra.
SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE HASKINS overruled the Point of Order.

Rep. DAVENPORT continued speaking.
The amendment was then adopted.

Rep. KIRSH spoke against the Bill.

Rep. KIRSH moved to table the Bill, which was not agreed to.

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

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Barrett                Beck
Bowers                 Brown, H.              Brown, J.

Campsen                Carnell                Chellis
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Davenport              Easterday              Edge
Fleming                Frye                   Gamble
Gilham                 Hamilton               Harrell
Harrison               Harvin                 Haskins
Hawkins                Hines, J.              Hinson
Huggins                Keegan                 Kelley
Knotts                 Koon                   Law
Leach                  Lee                    Limehouse
Littlejohn             Loftis                 Lourie
McGee                  McKay                  Meacham-Richardson
Moody-Lawrence         Neilson                Phillips
Pinckney               Quinn                  Rice
Riser                  Robinson               Rodgers
Rutherford             Sandifer               Scott
Seithel                Sharpe                 Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, F.              Smith, J.
Smith, R.              Taylor                 Tripp
Trotter                Vaughn                 Walker
Webb                   Whatley                Wilder
Wilkes                 Wilkins                Witherspoon
Young-Brickell

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allen                  Bailey                 Bales
Battle                 Brown, G.              Brown, T.
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Delleney
Emory                  Gourdine               Govan
Harris                 Hayes                  Hines, M.
Hosey                  Inabinett              Kennedy
Kirsh                  Lloyd                  Lucas
Mack                   McCraw                 McLeod, M.
McLeod, W.             Miller                 Neal, J.H.
Neal, J.M.             Ott                    Parks

Perry                  Sheheen                Stille
Stuart

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

Rep. D. SMITH moved that the House recur to the morning hour, which was agreed to.

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

H. 4267 (Word version) -- Rep. D. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 856 OF 1964, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE WHITNEY AREA FIRE DISTRICT IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF FUNDS WHICH MAY BE BORROWED BY THE DISTRICT BOARD FROM ONE HUNDRED TO FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS.

Rep. D. SMITH moved to table the Bill, which was agreed to.

Rep. HARRISON moved that the House recede until 6:45 p.m., which was agreed to.

Further proceedings were interrupted by the House receding.

At 6:45 p.m. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.

On motion of Rep. HASKINS the House stood at ease subject to the call of the Chair.

At 6:55 p.m. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.

At 7:00 p.m. the Senate appeared in the Hall of the House. The President of the Senate called the Joint Assembly to order and announced that it had convened under the terms of a Concurrent Resolution adopted by both Houses.

S. 1033 (Word version) -- Senator Drummond: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION INVITING HIS EXCELLENCY, JAMES H. HODGES, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION AT 7:00 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2000, IN THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Governor James H. Hodges and distinguished party were escorted to the rostrum by Senators DRUMMOND, PEELER, PATTERSON, HAYES, COURTNEY and GLOVER and Representatives SHEHEEN, CARNELL, NEILSON, R. SMITH, KOON and KENNEDY. The PRESIDENT of the Senate introduced Governor Hodges who then addressed the Joint Assembly as follows:

Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the General Assembly, distinguished guests and my fellow South Carolinians.

The last year of the 20th Century was one for the record books in South Carolina - record business investment in our state, record investments in our schools, record storms and floods along our coast, a nearly perfect record for the College of Charleston basketball team and, sadly, a perfect record for my beloved Gamecocks in football.

But for all the ups and downs in 1999, a clear picture emerges -- a newer, stronger South Carolina - attacking long-standing problems with aggressive initiatives in education, health care, economic development and public safety.

Tonight, I want to review our record of progress and propose initiatives to challenge, inspire and lead us into a new century.

I have no doubt the vision of South Carolina's future looks just a little different to each of us. Some South Carolina families have lived here for generations. Others are just now unpacking.

Some love our beaches, some love our mountains.

Some are parents who want more opportunity for our children. Some are seniors hoping for independence that lasts for all their years.

Each of us brings a different set of experiences, hopes, and dreams to our lives.

But we're all South Carolinians. Our collective future is most complete when viewed as a whole. We all have hopes for our state. We see a better path ahead for it, and for our people. We may choose different routes from time to time, but I believe we seek the same destination -- a peaceful, prosperous and productive home for us, our children and their children.

Last year, I called upon you to join me in a children's crusade -- a crusade to put our children first. A crusade to make education our top priority. Working together, we've taken some giant steps toward that goal.

We devoted $1 billion to build new schools in every community in our state -- without raising taxes. We dramatically improved preschool education by launching First Steps, with a goal of ensuring every child starts school healthy and ready to learn.

We asked parents to take an active role in their children's education by signing our "Compact with Our Children," and more than 100,000 parents responded. That's right, more than 100,000.

We improved discipline and safety in the schools by creating alternative schools and putting school safety officers in every high school in South Carolina. And we've raised teacher pay to an even higher level above the Southeastern norm.

I'd say that's a report card with a straight A average.

Because of our efforts, South Carolina is a better place than it was one year ago tonight.

But we cannot retrench or retreat. Whether you're here on the floor of the General Assembly or at home in your living room, I am calling on all of you to build on this record of success.

This is no time to back off our commitment to higher standards and greater resources for education. We can't afford anything less than our complete commitment to improving education for all South Carolinians.

Our children's crusade for education is on the march. Our challenge now is to pick up the pace.
Here are my goals for education this year.

First, every child deserves a quality teacher.

You know the teachers I mean. Teachers who know their stuff -- who know how to inspire students to be their best and set a good

Educators like that teach right now in South Carolina and some of them are with us tonight.

Please join me in recognizing five of South Carolina's best -- five of the 34 teachers in our state who have achieved our country's highest standard for teaching excellence, national certification.

These teachers have spent up to 180 hours assembling a teaching portfolio of their lesson plans and teaching methods. They've submitted those methods to critical review by some of the best teachers in the nation. They've survived rigorous testing to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject matter they teach.

One of these five, Kathy Schwalbe, says the certification process made her ask, "Am I giving my students my best?"

Today, Kathy can answer that with a confident, "yes." She's more comfortable and even more competent in the classroom. And her students are better for it. We need more teachers like Kathy. We need more messengers of educational excellence to spread the gospel of commitment and dedication that's lifted them to the highest standards in their profession.

Let's set an ambitious goal -- by the year 2002 -- at least 500 nationally certified teachers in South Carolina.

If we ask teachers to commit to this rigorous course of improvement, we must provide incentives. Right now, teachers sacrifice their own time and own money to earn national certification.

I propose we remove the financial barrier to certification by loaning our teachers the $2,000 dollars they need to begin the process, and then forgive that loan if a teacher successfully completes the rigorous training.

Our state should also reward outstanding achievement in teaching with performance bonuses. I propose we award a $25,000 bonus for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year, a $10,000 bonus for each of the four teachers on the South Carolina Honor Roll, and a $1,000 bonus for each district teacher of the year

We need better trained teachers and we need more of them. And we need strong role models for our students. People are trying to help, and we should help them.

One of them is here tonight -- Jeff Davis.

You may recognize Jeff. He's the former Clemson standout who played on the Tigers' 1981 National Championship team and then went on to a great career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Jeff didn't always have heroic role models. As a child, he

Today, Jeff's the captain of his most important effort -- recruiting African-American men to become teachers through a program titled "Call Me Mister."

Jeff's made me a believer. He wants to help us win another national championship, this time in the classroom. That's why I have asked for more than $1 million for teacher recruitment to fund "Call Me Mister" and programs like it throughout South Carolina.

We must redouble our efforts to recruit the best and brightest classroom leaders - a diverse group of teachers who can serve as role models for all children.

We are asking a lot more of our teachers. But in the classroom, teachers are only part of the equation. Obviously, students in our schools should develop good minds. To me, it's equally obvious they should develop good values. Parents make the first -- and best -- teachers when it comes to values. Children must learn right from wrong in their own homes and in their places of worship. But the need to learn right from wrong shouldn't stop when a child enters the classroom.

Schools can't teach character all by themselves. But schools should reinforce the lessons of right and wrong that children learn at home. I propose that every South Carolina school develop a character education program focusing on those character traits a civilized society values. Traits like good citizenship, respect, honesty and integrity.

That's why my proposed budget includes funds to train teachers in ways to introduce character education in the classroom. In addition, specific funds are earmarked for grants to school districts to offset the cost of developing a character education program.

And that's why I think it's time to require students to respect their teachers. In every school, our students must use words that show that respect. I'm talking about ma'am, sir, Mr. and Mrs.

What's the value of character education? Ask someone like Joanne Skillman, assistant principal at East Aiken Elementary. Joanne says her students now challenge each other to be more virtuous and honest. Learning the meaning of these character traits is helping East Aiken students live by them. Representative Todd Rutherford knows the wisdom of this practice and has agreed to sponsor my character education program.

These initiatives aren't expensive. In fact, teaching good manners

As I look back on what we've accomplished during the past year, nothing makes me more proud than the great strides we've taken in preschool education.

We launched First Steps, our preschool readiness program, with a $20 million dollar appropriation from the General Assembly.

The private sector knows a good investment when it sees it and is chipping in $5 million more.

There is a hunger across our state for First Steps. Entire communities are working together to find out what children need to be ready for school and then create initiatives to meet these needs. They're excited just to have the chance. In tiny Allendale County alone, more than 150 people jammed into a First Steps organizational meeting. That response has been repeated in county after county.

First Steps is making a difference.

Two years ago, Clarendon County -- and much of the rest of South Carolina -- was falling further behind when it came to preparing our children for school. That's why we needed bold new initiatives from state government to turn these numbers around.

Tonight, I can report to you initiatives we began a year ago are taking hold. In our gallery is a group of Clarendon County preschoolers. These kids are among the first in our state to benefit from First Steps. When they complete the first grade, these kids won't become another bottom-of-the-ranks statistic. Instead, they'll be on a path to success.

I'm so proud of these kids - I can't wait to see their progress. We can't risk any child's chance to follow that same path. And I, for one, don't intend to. That's why I am asking for an additional $10 million for First Steps -- enough to fund initiatives in all 46 counties throughout South Carolina.

I also want the First Steps Board of Trustees, in conjunction with my office, to take a comprehensive look at child care in South Carolina. There are at least 140,000 children in child care in South Carolina. And that's just the ones we know about, getting licensed care. The need for quality child care is clear. We've got to ensure that while these children are away from their moms and dads, they're getting the best possible foundation to start school.

Each of the programs I've mentioned is designed to raise the abilities of our children. I assure you that each also emphasizes accountability to guarantee these programs achieve the desired results. That's why I

These funds pay for report cards on school performance and summer school or remediation for kids who need it. They also provide principal and teacher specialists to aid impaired schools and help at-risk districts before they become impaired.

Improving education takes more than programs and money. It takes a personal commitment from each one of us. That's why my wife Rachel and I choose to promote reading.

I've met so many of our young students as they come through my office for a weekly reading session. Often, it's this book, a favorite of my sons', "Sylvester and the Magic Pebble."

It's sometimes hard to believe there's any five-year-old left who hasn't heard me read this book. But we know there are too many young people who aren't exposed every day to the joy of reading.

That means young children missing out on time with a parent or other role model. That means older children deprived of exercise of the imagination that only the written word can provide. That's why I created the Governor's Institute of Reading and held a statewide summit to promote the best reading practices.

My wife's program, "Reading with Rachel," has visited more than 40 classrooms, held nearly 10 events at the Governor's Mansion, and is donating more than 200 new books every month to students, libraries and schools.

In last year's State of the State, I challenged students to get a library card -- and use it. This year, let's create a whole new goal. I challenge every student in kindergarten through 12th grade to read at least 20 books this year. Those who do will be named members of my "Governor's Reading Honor Roll."

Kids, a good book can open the mind to ideas and take you places no video game ever will.

So far, I've focused on what we can do to make our public schools better. But the real payoff for many of our children comes only if they can complete a college education.

Paying for college is one of the biggest challenges families face. In many cases, it means going deep into debt, or not going to college at all.

Did you know that it costs almost $50,000 to put a child through the University of South Carolina today?

My oldest son, Luke, is six years old. By the time Luke's ready for college, experts estimate that figure will be more like $115,000. By

Let's put a face on these statistics. Meet Patricia and Timothy Delts of Hopkins and their five children. These kids have some high ambitions and they're working hard to reach them. Their mom and dad are working hard on putting money aside to save for those college bills.

But by the time their youngest, seven-year-old Georgia, gets her degree, the Delts face 14 straight years of tuition bills and college loans.

It's time we do something to relieve the crushing financial burden imposed on South Carolina families by the cost of higher education.

The time has come for an education lottery in South Carolina.

I have two requirements for a lottery. First, South Carolina must run our lottery like a business. Second, proceeds from the education lottery must fund scholarships for students pursuing higher education and pay for technology in our classrooms. Under my proposal, funds from an education lottery will double the number of state-sponsored scholarships currently available in South Carolina. And let's offer our young people the chance to earn an associate's degree - tuition free. More and more, an associate's degree is the minimum requirement for a good job.

Lottery funds will make higher education more accessible by providing a $2,000 scholarship for anyone earning a B average. Plus, a lottery will improve upon existing LIFE scholarships. If a high school student earns a B and meets the SAT requirement then scholarship money will double from $2,000 to $4,000.

The lottery will provide special scholarships to help teachers upgrade their knowledge of the subjects they teach.

Finally, the technology we will provide South Carolina students with lottery funds will make us number one in the nation - leading the way - in access to the latest tools for learning.

I spoke earlier of the struggle to pay for college.

Supposedly a child's public education in the years leading up to college is free. Any parent knows, like I do, that's a joke.

Required school supplies, uniforms, band instruments, field trips -- these are just some of the hidden costs of public education, and that's not taking into account the money needed to feed and clothe an active and growing student. We should do more to help our state's families during this difficult time. That's why I am proposing an annual state-

South Carolina has been truly blessed with a booming economy. That's enabled us to return a sizeable portion of this bounty to taxpayers by aggressively cutting taxes. This year's budget includes more than $400 million dollars in ongoing property tax relief, in addition to the targeted tax cuts I've proposed.

But the Bible cautions us to use the surplus gained in years of plenty to prepare for years of want. The best way to prepare for the future is to invest in education today.

Last year, the state devoted $750 million to local school construction. That saves homeowners and car owners $750 million dollars they'd otherwise be paying in taxes to build new schools.

While improving public education in South Carolina may be our biggest challenge in the year ahead, it is not our only concern. Even in these great economic times, some South Carolinians have trouble making ends meet - particularly our seniors. This was highlighted in a series of "Seniors Speak Out" forums held across South Carolina. I want to commend Representative Gilda Cobb-Hunter for proposing these forums, where some seniors say the state truly heard their concerns for the first time.

Just two weeks ago, I met a remarkable lady -- LaVonne Cain. Her story is enough to bring tears to your eyes. LaVonne recently had to sacrifice independence to ensure her health.

The rising cost of her prescription medicine put such a burden on LaVonne's budget, she was forced to give up her car. LaVonne said it made her feel like she'd lost part of her life.

LaVonne Cain is a symbol of all the seniors who have worked hard and paid taxes all their lives without asking much from government. LaVonne told me that senior citizens have much to offer. They've lived through the hardships of life and have lots of experience to be productive. Her simple question to me was, "Won't you please help us to help ourselves?"

LaVonne -- we're going to help.

I propose we implement a Seniors Drug Program in South Carolina. This program will provide relief, both financially and medically, to 125,000 seniors throughout South Carolina. We must explore other avenues for improving the lives of seniors as well. That includes tax credits for seniors purchasing long-term care insurance proposed by

We've funded much of our seniors program through our Healthy South Carolina 2000 Trust. In fact, 60 percent of South Carolina's share in the tobacco settlement goes to these health priorities. But seniors aren't the only ones to benefit.

Healthy South Carolina 2000 will pay for early childhood health screenings to detect children with hearing problems or exposure to lead. And let's spend money from the tobacco settlement for youth smoking prevention. We've got to stop kids from starting to smoke, and take the cigarettes out of the hands of kids who already do.

A short time ago, some publicly doubted that job and industry recruitment were a priority in this administration. They were wrong. Last week, I traveled around South Carolina to announce our first "Six Billion Dollar Year." This $6 billion in new investment came from international giants like Michelin and home-grown enterprises like the bio-tech firm Southern Sun.

We set records for rural investment, and for total investment in a single day. These are remarkable achievements. But in celebrating these important economic milestones, we shouldn't forget about areas of our state in economic need. That's why I propose using another 20 percent of the tobacco settlement for an Economic Development Trust. These funds will help pay for a variety of initiatives to aid our tobacco communities and underdeveloped areas of the state.

Another 20 percent of the tobacco settlement can help revitalize and diversify the economies of tobacco farming communities by reimbursing tobacco producers and quota holders for their production losses.

We've got to stand by our tobacco farmers in their time of need.

Our neighboring tobacco states are taking steps to stabilize their farming communities. It's time we did the same.

In addition to our farmers, there is another group of workers in our state who deserve economic incentives -- our hard-working state employees. I value our state employees. I've proposed a comprehensive approach to recognizing their service. My budget includes a 3 percent pay raise for employees earning less than $30,000 a year, 2 percent for those earning $30,000 and above. Also included are 28-year-retirement, a restructured health insurance plan and matching funds for the state 401K.

I mentioned earlier that South Carolina faced its share of devastating

My heart goes out to the families in and around Horry County whose homes were flooded - families like Beth and Billy Wayne Gore. When I saw the Gores in September they were salvaging the furniture in their home.

Senator Luke Rankin and Representative Billy Witherspoon joined me in helping the Gores haul their belongings out of the neighborhood in a john boat. The Gores are just now moving from temporary housing into a new home.

Hurricane Floyd taught us some valuable lessons. First, the communications network among traffic control agencies doesn't work. And our citizens can't get the latest information on evacuation routes and procedures. I propose we expand and link law enforcement radio systems so different agencies can share the latest information.

Let's update our public information systems. I propose we broadcast AM radio alerts and put up roadside message boards to keep drivers informed.

The second lesson learned -- in emergencies we need a streamlined chain of command. The Emergency Preparedness Division must be moved under my control. Next time, the evacuation of our coast will move swiftly, smoothly and safely.

I'm happy to say there's one storm we didn't have to weather and that's because it never came. Our preparation paid off and the Y2K bug was dead on arrival.

But changing technology is now a constant in life. And we have to change with it. We need the newest technology across state government if we're going to provide the efficient services citizens deserve. That's why I'm calling for a new chief technology officer to ensure that government is more accessible and responsive to its citizens. This new technology secretary will ensure that government bridges the information gulf that often frustrates cooperation between different parts of government. The office will coordinate public/private partnerships to enhance business development and take high-speed internet access statewide. We must ensure that South Carolina is wired and ready in the 21st Century.

Our citizens can testify that outmoded technology doesn't get the job done. Just ask anyone in line at the Division of Motor Vehicles. I know this first-hand. For a short time last year, I was the face behind the counter at the Division of Motor Vehicles. For several days, I

We've made a start. The DMV's Project Phoenix combines state-of-the-art computer technology with a customer-oriented approach to improve service. Let's continue to fund Project Phoenix so that by next year, South Carolinians will spend less time in line and more time enjoying the open road.

Let me turn to the issue of public safety. We're tough on crime in South Carolina. But when it comes to fighting the crime of domestic violence - we've got to intensify our efforts.

South Carolina ranks third in the nation for deaths of women at the hands of their abusers. While the overall homicide rate in South Carolina has decreased, domestic violence homicides have gone up. South Carolina needs a coordinated effort to put an end to this horrible crime. That's why I am creating a Task Force on Domestic Violence. This group will be charged with developing a plan to help prevent this crime, provide for the safety of victims, and punish offenders with swift and sure justice.

As I mentioned earlier, we are keeping our promise to put South Carolina schools first. There is another promise worth keeping -- South Carolina must control its own environmental destiny at the Barnwell landfill. My bipartisan task force, chaired by former Congressman Butler Derrick, recommends a solution that meets South Carolina's environmental needs. The task force unanimously suggests that we join the Atlantic Compact. We can reduce the overall volume and total radioactivity of waste at the Barnwell disposal facility and free up space for the decommissioning of our own nuclear plants in the future.

I urge this General Assembly to petition for membership in the Atlantic Compact -- South Carolina must no longer be the nation's nuclear dumping ground.

Finally tonight, I believe that each of us must accept the challenge to open our hearts to reconciliation. There are some steps long overdue for our state that we must take now.

State government must finally recognize that the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. deserve recognition in the form of an official state holiday. All of our sister states recognize this day and so do numerous cities, counties and school districts right here in South Carolina. We must take this step now because it is simply the right thing to do.

There is a separate issue we also need to address. The Confederate

Let me tell you what I believe. Sanctions or no sanctions, we must move ahead and find a resolution to this debate. Sanctions can no longer keep us from doing what's right.

The majority of South Carolinians understand that we have two sovereign flags that represent all of us -- the United States flag and the state flag with the Palmetto tree and crescent. In its current location on the State House dome, the Confederate flag claims an inappropriate position of sovereignty.

Let's resolve this issue. And let's resolve it now. We must move the flag from the dome to a place of historical significance on the State House grounds. The debate over the Confederate flag has claimed too much of our time and energy -- energy that can be put to better use building schools, improving health care and recruiting jobs.

A divisive debate over the Confederate flag can't build one school or buy one textbook -- but an honorable solution will teach our children a valuable lesson about resolving our differences in an atmosphere of mutual respect.

The entire nation is watching and listening to us. Most importantly, South Carolina's children are watching and listening to us.

As we work to resolve this issue, let us be sure that the lesson we leave to the next generation is that we learn more by listening than by talking. Let us be sure our children learn that problems can be resolved only when we have mutual respect for people with opposing backgrounds and views.

Yes, let us reach agreement this year to move the flag. Let us do it in a way that will teach our children well the right and proper way to resolve differences.

Members of the General Assembly, tonight I have told you about the State of Our State as it currently stands - on the brink of a bright future.

I challenge you to join me in our progress toward a new South Carolina for this new century.

A South Carolina no longer troubled by long-running conflicts over the Confederate flag.

A South Carolina where the children of Clarendon, and every county can begin the first grade healthy and ready to learn.

A South Carolina with enough highly qualified teachers to prepare our students for the rigors and rewards of higher education.

And a South Carolina where seniors like LaVonne Cain can grow

Whatever experiences each of us brings here tonight, I believe our hopes and dreams for South Carolina look a lot alike.

We all want a new and better South Carolina. The people of South Carolina are looking to us to make that happen.

Now, let's get to work.

Upon the conclusion of his address, Governor Hodges and his escort party retired from the Chamber.

The purposes of the Joint Assembly having been accomplished, the PRESIDENT announced that under the terms of the Concurrent Resolution the Joint Assembly would recede from business.
The Senate accordingly retired to its Chamber.

At 7:49 p.m. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.

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

The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:

H. 4447 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Beck, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Frye, Gamble, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Inabinett, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Maddox, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McKay, M. McLeod, W. McLeod, McMahand, Meacham-Richardson, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scott, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, D. Smith, Stille, Stuart, Taylor, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn,

At 7:50 p.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. STUART, adjourned in memory of Tim Hutto of Neeses, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.

This web page was last updated on Friday, June 26, 2009 at 9:23 A.M.