Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 10:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

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

Beloved, hear the words of a wise man in the Book of Proverbs, Chapter 16 (v. 7):

"When the ways of people please the Lord, He causes even their

enemies to be at peace with them.

The human mind plans the way, but the Lord directs the steps."
Let us pray.

Almighty God, You are our Creator. You are our Redeemer. As the poet says, You are the "Hound of heaven" seeking us up and down the lanes of life. You said to Adam in the Garden of Eden, "Adam, where are you?" But Adam was hiding.

We are afraid that You are asking us about our stewardship... "where are you? Help us and empower us to be more forthright with You than was our ancestor Adam!

We realize that our life in society is like spokes in a wheel; the closer we are to each other, the closer we are to You as the hub of our wheel of life.

So, whether on the world field of battle or in the competition in the field of business or in a confrontation with the loyal opposition in government, the closer we all get to the Lord in our motives, our purposes and our plans, the closer we are to each other.

So, help us to live today on the stage of this world by letting the spirit of our citizenship in the Kingdom of God shine through in our stewardship in the Kingdoms of this world.
Amen.

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

The following appointment was transmitted by the Honorable James H. Hodges:

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with term to commence February 13, 1996, and to expire February 13, 2003:

At-Large:

James A. Bennett, Post Office Box 29, Columbia, S.C. 29209 VICE James B. Moore, Jr. (resigned)

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Document No. 2362
Agency: Board of Education
SUBJECT: Free Textbooks
Received by Lieutenant Governor February 8, 1999
Referred to Education Committee
Legislative Review Expiration June 19, 1999
April 9, 1999   House Education and Public Works Committee Requested Withdrawal
120 Day Period Tolled
April 20, 1999 Withdrawn and Resubmitted

Document No. 2389
Agency: Board of Education
SUBJECT: Student Teaching
Received by Lieutenant Governor February 8, 1999
Referred to Education Committee
Legislative Review Expiration June 17, 1999
April 12, 1999 Senate Education Committee Requested Withdrawal
120 Day Period Tolled
April 21, 1999 Withdrawn and Resubmitted

Senator WILSON introduced Dr. Tommy Gibbons of Columbia, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

At 11:50 P.M., Senator LAND requested a leave of absence until 3:00 P.M.

At 4:00 P.M., Senator MESCHER requested a leave of absence from 4:15 - 11:00 P.M.

At 4:00 P.M., Senator GIESE requested a leave of absence beginning at 6:00 A.M. Friday, April 23, 1999, and lasting until Saturday evening, April 24, 1999.

On motion of Senator LAND, at 11:50 A.M., Senator McGILL was granted a leave of absence until 3:00 P.M.

S. 725 (Word version) -- Senators Holland, Courtney, Glover and Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 20-7-420, 20-7-1315 AND 20-7-1440, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO COLLECTION OF CHILD SUPPORT, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A CENTRALIZED SYSTEM FOR THE COLLECTION OF WAGE WITHHOLDINGS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 20-1-220, 20-3-235, 20-7-853, 20-7-854, 20-7-949, 20-7-957, 20-7-1295, 44-7-77, 44-63-75, 43-5-595, AND 43-5-596, RELATING TO THE USE OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS IN CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT AND SUPPORT, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF ALIEN IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS IN CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT AND SUPPORT; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-941, RELATING TO THE MEANINGS OF RELEVANT CHILD SUPPORT TERMS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 20-7-942 AND 20-7-945, RELATING TO THE LICENSE REVOCATION PROGRAM, SO AS TO DECREASE THE TIME FOR REVOCATION FROM NINETY DAYS TO FORTY-FIVE DAYS; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-1130, RELATING TO ENFORCEMENT OF SUPPORT AND INCOME WITHHOLDING ORDERS, SO AS TO CREATE DISCRETION IN THE USE OF ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-1295, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE LIENS, SO AS TO

Senator BRYAN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.

There was no objection.

The Bill was recalled and ordered placed on the Calendar.

H. 3829 (Word version) -- Reps. Klauber, Carnell, Clyburn, W. McLeod, Parks, Stille, Taylor and Wilder: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 43-41-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE COMPOSITION OF THE GLEAMNS HUMAN RESOURCES COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT COMMISSION MEMBERS MUST BE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNING BODIES OF THE COUNTIES PARTICIPATING IN THE COMMISSION.

Senator BRYAN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Medical Affairs.

There was no objection.

The Bill was recalled and ordered placed on the Calendar.

The following were introduced:

S. 746 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF VOTING PRECINCTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION MAY ESTABLISH MULTIPLE POLLING PLACES

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 747 (Word version) -- Senator Washington: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 340 OF 1967, AS LAST AMENDED BY ACT 936 OF 1970, RELATING TO THE CHARLESTON COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH NINE NUMBERED SEATS WITHIN THREE ELECTION DISTRICTS FOR THE CHARLESTON SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES, TO REQUIRE A MEMBER ELECTED TO A SEAT TO BE A RESIDENT OF THE ELECTION DISTRICT WHERE THE SEAT IS ESTABLISHED, TO PROVIDE FOR ELECTIONS, TO ABOLISH CONSTITUENT SCHOOL DISTRICTS; TO PROVIDE FOR PRECLEARANCE SUBMISSION OF THE ACT TO THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE; AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TRANSFER OR APPROVAL AUTHORITY OVER THE DISTRICT'S ANNUAL TAX LEVY FROM THE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION TO THE COUNTY COUNCIL.

Read the first time and ordered placed on the local and uncontested Calendar.

S. 748 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE DIVISION OF GENERAL SERVICES TO ALLOW THE H. L. HUNLEY EXHIBIT TO BE ON THE STATE HOUSE GROUNDS ON THURSDAY, APRIL 22, 1999.

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 749 (Word version) -- Senator Passailaigue: A JOINT RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO EXTEND INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RETURN AND INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX PAYMENT DUE DATES FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL SERVING IN OPERATION ALLIED FORCE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE WAIVER OF PENALTIES AND INTEREST DURING THESE SPECIAL EXTENSIONS, AND TO SUSPEND COLLECTION ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT TO THESE TAXPAYERS UNTIL THEIR RETURN.

Read the first time and on motion of Senator PASSAILAIGUE, with unanimous consent, ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

On motion of Senator PASSAILAIGUE, with unanimous consent, S. 749 was ordered to receive a second and third reading on the next two consecutive legislative days.

H. 3581 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Cobb-Hunter, Gamble, Jennings and Scott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 34-1-110, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AUTHORITY FOR CERTAIN STATE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS TO ENGAGE IN SPECIFIED FINANCIAL ACTIVITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS MAY PERMIT A FINANCIAL ACTIVITY BY ISSUING AN OPERATIONAL INSTRUCTION IN ADDITION TO GRANTING AUTHORITY BY REGULATION, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

H. 3907 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, RELATING TO HOSPITALITY CABINETS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2336, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 3942 (Word version) -- Rep. Walker: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE CONGRATULATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, CELEBRATING IN JUNE, 1999, THE ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GROUP'S FOUNDING AND TO EXPRESS APPRECIATION TO ITS PAST AND CURRENT MEMBERS FOR THEIR SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE OF THIS STATE AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE'S ECONOMIC GROWTH AND WELL-BEING.

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

H. 3949 (Word version) -- Rep. Sandifer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE CONGRATULATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF

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

H. 3950 (Word version) -- Rep. Davenport: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE APPRECIATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO MR. JOHN THROCKMORTON OF THE SPRINGFIELD COMMUNITY IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY FOR HIS DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ON THE SPARTANBURG COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE AND HIS MANY CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE LIFE OF HIS COMMUNITY.

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

Senator HOLLAND from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 126 (Word version) -- Senators Passailaigue and Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-740, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WITHIN FIFTEEN DAYS OF THE RETURN OF A TRUE BILL OF AN INDICTMENT BY A GRAND JURY FOR A CRIME WHEREIN THE VICTIM WAS EXPOSED TO BLOOD OR VAGINAL OR SEMINAL OR OTHER BODY FLUIDS OR SECRETIONS OF THE ALLEGED OFFENDER OR THE ALLEGED JUVENILE OFFENDER THE SOLICITOR SHALL MAKE A MOTION AND THE COURT SHALL ORDER THAT THE ALLEGED OFFENDER OR THE ALLEGED JUVENILE OFFENDER SHALL BE TESTED FOR HEPATITIS B AND ALL SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES INCLUDING HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV), THE VIRUS THAT CAUSES ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME (AIDS), AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE RESULTS OF SUCH TESTING BE REVEALED ONLY TO THE VICTIM, THE VICTIM'S PARENT(S) OR LEGAL GUARDIAN(S) OR

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator McCONNELL from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 206 (Word version) -- Senators J. Verne Smith, Elliott, Hayes, Leventis, McGill, Waldrep, Washington, Fair, Reese, Alexander, Leatherman, Martin, Grooms, Branton, Giese and Russell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 61-2-60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PROMULGATION OF REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES TO MINORS OVER THE INTERNET; TO AMEND SECTION 61-2-175, RELATING TO A FOREIGN ENTITY INTENTIONALLY SHIPPING BEER, WINE, OR ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS DIRECTLY TO A RESIDENT NOT HOLDING A VALID STATE LICENSE, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE ISSUANCE OF A NOTICE TO CEASE AND DESIST AND TO PROVIDE A FINE FOR CONVICTION ON A FIRST OFFENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-4-50, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL SALE OF BEER AND WINE TO MINORS, SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THE DEFINITION OF SALE BY MEANS OF THE INTERNET; TO AMEND ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 4 OF TITLE 61, RELATING TO THE PRODUCERS AND WHOLESALERS OF BEER AND WINE, SO AS TO ADD SECTION 61-4-360 WHICH PROVIDES A SHIPPING CONTAINER MUST BE CLEARLY LABELED TO INDICATE IT MUST NOT BE DELIVERED TO A MINOR; TO AMEND SECTION 61-4-730, RELATING TO THE SALE OF DOMESTIC WINE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE SHIPPING CONTAINER MUST BE CLEARLY LABELED TO INDICATE IT MUST NOT BE DELIVERED TO A MINOR; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2900, RELATING TO THE SHIPPING OF IMPORTED LIQUORS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE SHIPPING CONTAINER MUST BE CLEARLY LABELED TO INDICATE IT MUST NOT BE DELIVERED TO A MINOR; TO AMEND ARTICLE 7, CHAPTER 6 OF TITLE 61, RELATING TO THE IMPORTATION OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS, SO AS TO ADD SECTION 61-6-2990 WHICH PROHIBITS THE USE OF THE

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator WILSON from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 250 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman and Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LOBBYIST'S REPORTING OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-35, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOBBYIST'S PRINCIPAL'S REPORTING OF LOBBYING EXPENDITURES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE AGENCY REPORT OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING THE REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-90, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ACTS PROHIBITED OF LOBBYISTS' PRINCIPALS, ACTS PROHIBITED OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES, EXCEPTIONS, AND DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXCLUDE CABINET OFFICERS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-320, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE APPROVAL OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, IN ADDITION TO THE RESPONDENT, TO WAIVE THE CONFIDENTIALITY OF THE EXISTENCE OF THE COMPLAINT AFTER IT HAS BEEN DISMISSED WHEN A COMPLAINT DOES NOT ALLEGE FACTS SUFFICIENT TO CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION; TO AMEND

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MOORE from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 284 (Word version) -- Senators Holland, McConnell and Fair: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-48-40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SEXUALLY VIOLENT PREDATORS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE AGENCY WITH JURISDICTION SHALL GIVE WRITTEN NOTICE TO THE MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM AND THE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE AT LEAST ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY DAYS PRIOR TO THE PERSON'S ANTICIPATED RELEASE DATE; TO FURTHER PROVIDE THAT FOR A PERSON UNDER THE JURISIDICTION OF THE DEPARMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE WHO IS INDEFINITELY TRANSFERRED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH FOR THE TREATMENT OF A SERIOUS EMOTIONAL DISTURBANCE, NOTICE SHALL BE PROVIDED AT LEAST ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY DAYS BEFORE THE JUVENILE'S ANTICIPATED RELEASE DATE; TO FURTHER PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THE ACT ARE NOT JURISDICTIONAL AND FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE PROVISIONS DOES NOT PROHIBIT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FROM PROCEEDING AGAINST A PERSON WHO MAY BE SUBJECT TO THE ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 44-48-50 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN RECORDS MUST BE GIVEN TO

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator HOLLAND from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 470 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-17-470, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EAVESDROPPING OR PEEPING, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF ELECTRONIC VIDEO OR AUDIO EQUIPMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF EAVESDROPPING AND TO REQUIRE IMMEDIATE FORFEITURE AND DESTRUCTION OF ALL VIDEO AND AUDIO RECORDINGS PRODUCED FROM SUCH ACTIVITY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MARTIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a
favorable with amendment report on:

S. 505 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-23-210 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR OFFENSES INVOLVING WEAPONS, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE DEFINITION OF MILITARY FIREARM.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator McCONNELL from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 581 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 434 OF 1998, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT AND ENFORCEMENT OF DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE PROHIBITIONS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROHIBITION AGAINST THE SALE OF MALT LIQUOR IN CONTAINERS GREATER THAN ONE LITER.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator HOLLAND from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 704 (Word version) -- Senators Holland and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 6, TITLE 23, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY BY ADDING ARTICLE 5, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A FORMER LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY OR ANY AGENCY, OFFICE OR UNIT TRANSFERRED TO THE DEPARTMENT PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENTAL RESTRUCTURING OR THEREAFTER, INCLUDING FORMER OR RETIRED OFFICERS MAY RECEIVE A SPECIAL DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY CONSTABLE COMMISSION; TO PROVIDE THAT THE DIRECTOR SHALL DETERMINE THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THESE CONSTABLES, INCLUDING TRAINING REQUIREMENTS AND OTHER CRITERIA; TO PROVIDE THAT INDIVIDUALS COMMISSIONED BY THE DEPARTMENT MAY RECEIVE SPECIAL DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY CONSTABLE IDENTIFICATION CARDS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 23-6-145, RELATING TO COMMISSIONED AND UNIFORMED OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COMMISSIONED OR UNIFORMED OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT MAY MAKE TRAFFIC STOPS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator BRYAN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3158 (Word version) -- Reps. Campsen, Knotts, R. Smith, Loftis, Barfield, Tripp, Altman, Wilder, Easterday, Edge, Leach, Harrison, Robinson, Wilkins, J. Brown, Miller, Hamilton, Barrett, Rice, Cato, J. Smith, Delleney, Gilham, Lourie, Rhoad, Bailey, Sharpe, Kirsh, Bales, Jennings, M.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Columbia, S.C., April 21, 1999
Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on:

H. 3188 (Word version) -- Reps. Knotts, Edge, Rodgers, Whatley and Simrill: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1520, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPEED LIMITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY IS SEVENTY MILES AN HOUR; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 56-5-1510, RELATING TO THE STATE'S FIFTY-FIVE MILE AN HOUR MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT AND FEDERAL LAWS THAT PERMIT THE STATE TO SET SPEED LIMITS GREATER THAN FIFTY-FIVE MILES AN HOUR.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

H. 3188 (Word version) -- Reps. Knotts, Edge, Rodgers, Whatley and Simrill: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1520, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPEED LIMITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY IS SEVENTY MILES AN HOUR; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 56-5-1510, RELATING TO THE STATE'S FIFTY-FIVE MILE AN HOUR MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT AND FEDERAL LAWS THAT PERMIT THE STATE TO SET SPEED LIMITS GREATER THAN FIFTY-FIVE MILES AN HOUR.

On motion of Senator LAND, with unanimous consent, the Report of the Committee of Conference was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator LAND spoke on the report.

The Report of the Committee of Conference was adopted as follows:

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 3188 (Word version) -- Reps. Knotts, Edge, Rodgers, Whatley and Simrill: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1520, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPEED LIMITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY IS SEVENTY MILES AN HOUR; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 56-5-1510, RELATING TO THE STATE'S FIFTY-FIVE MILE AN HOUR MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT AND FEDERAL LAWS THAT PERMIT THE STATE TO SET SPEED LIMITS GREATER THAN FIFTY-FIVE MILES AN HOUR.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

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

/ SECTION   1.   Section 56-5-1520 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 497 of 1994, is further amended to read:

"Section 56-5-1520.   (a) General rule. (A) No A person shall not drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. In every event Speed must be so controlled as may be necessary to avoid colliding with any a person, vehicle, or other conveyance on or entering the highway in compliance with legal requirements and the duty of all persons a person to use care.

(b) Maximum speed limits. (B)   Except when a special hazard exists that requires lower speed for compliance with paragraph (a) of this section subsection (A), the limits specified in this section or established as hereinafter authorized are maximum lawful speeds, and no a person shall not drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed in excess of these maximum limits:

(1) thirty miles an hour in any urban district seventy miles an hour on the interstate highway system and other freeways where official signs giving notice of this speed are posted;

(2) sixty miles an hour on multilane divided primary highways where official signs giving notice of this speed limit are posted;

(3) fifty-five miles an hour in other locations or on other sections of highways except where speeds above fifty-five miles an hour are otherwise provided by Section 56-5-1510 and unpaved roads are limited to the speed of forty miles an hour; and

(4) manufactured, modular, or mobile homes must not be transported at a speed in excess of ten miles below the maximum posted speed limit when the maximum posted speed limit is in excess of forty-five miles an hour, and never in excess of fifty-five miles an hour.

(C)   Thirty miles an hour is the maximum speed in an urban district. 'Urban district' means the territory contiguous to and including any street which is built up with structures devoted to business, industry, or dwelling houses situated at intervals of less than one hundred feet for a distance of a quarter of a mile or more.

(D)   A local authority on the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation may determine that the maximum speed limit permitted under this article is less than thirty miles an hour in an urban district. If this determination is made, the maximum speed limit for the urban district is enforceable by all law enforcement officers authorized to enforce the traffic laws in the urban district. However, this subsection does not apply to highways within the state highway system contained in Section 56-5-1530.

(E)   The maximum speed limits set forth in this section may be altered as authorized in pursuant to Sections 56-5-1530 and 56-5-1540.

(c)   When lower speeds required; penalties; citation for violating speed limits. (F)   The driver of every a vehicle shall drive, consistent with the requirements of paragraph (a) subsection (A), drive at an appropriate reduced speed when approaching and crossing an intersection or railway grade crossing, when approaching and going around a curve, approaching a hillcrest, when traveling upon any narrow bridge, narrow or winding roadway, and when special hazard exists with respect to pedestrians or other traffic or by reason of weather or highway conditions.

(d) Any (G)   A person violating the speed limits established by this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction for a first offense, must be fined or imprisoned as follows:

(1) in excess of the above posted limit but not in excess of ten miles an hour by a fine of not less than fifteen dollars nor more than twenty-five dollars;

(2) in excess of ten miles an hour but less than fifteen miles an hour above the posted limit by a fine of not less than twenty-five dollars nor more than fifty dollars;

(3) in excess of fifteen miles an hour but less than twenty-five miles an hour above the posted limit by a fine of not less than fifty dollars nor more than seventy-five dollars; and

(4) in excess of twenty-five miles an hour above the posted limit by a fine of not less than seventy-five dollars nor more than two hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than thirty days.

(e) Any (H)   A citation for violating the speed limits issued by any authorized officer must note on it the rate of speed for which the citation is issued.

(f) (I)   In expending the funds credited to the state general fund from fines generated under subsection (d) (G), the department first shall consider the need for additional highway patrolmen."

SECTION   2.   Section 56-5-1535 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   It is unlawful for a person to drive a motor vehicle in a highway work zone at a speed in excess of the speed limit set and posted by signs. A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than seventy-five nor more than two hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.

(B)   A 'highway work zone' is the area between the first sign that informs motorists of the existence of the work zone on the highway and the last sign that informs motorists of the end of the work zone.

(C)   The penalty imposed by this section applies only:

(1) if a sign is posted at the beginning of the active work zone that states "HIGHWAY 'WORK ZONE -- NO SPEEDING -- TWO HUNDRED DOLLAR $200 FINE AND THIRTY 30 DAYS IMPRISONMENT FOR SPEEDING';

(2) to the area between the posted sign and the 'END CONSTRUCTION' sign. Signs may be posted at the discretion of the Department of Transportation in the highway work zones designed to comply with work zone traffic control standards contained in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices published by the Federal Highway Administration."

SECTION   3.   Section 56-5-1540(a)(2) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(2) increases the limit within an urban district but not to more than fifty-five seventy miles an hour, except that speed limits above fifty-five miles an hour are required when stipulated by Section 56-5-1510; or"

SECTION   4.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section   56-5-616.   The interstate system consists of the segments of highways in South Carolina in the officially designated national system of interstate and defense highways."

SECTION   5.   Chapter 23, Title 57 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

Section 57-23-800.   (A)   The Department of Transportation shall conduct vegetation management of the medians, roadsides, and interchanges along the interstate highway system in accordance with the following requirements:

(1)   a median of not more than sixty feet in width shall have its mowable area mowed in its entirety. A median wider than sixty feet shall only be mowed within thirty feet from the edges of the pavement.

(2)   a roadside shall be mowed thirty feet from the edge of the pavement. If fill slopes or back slopes are steep, one swath of the mower or not less than five feet shall be mowed on these slopes.

(3)   an interchange shall be mowed in the same manner as a roadside, provided that the distance from the pavement required to be mowed may be increased to address any safety concerns involved.

(B)   The mowing widths provided in subsection (A) may be increased when necessary to provide adequate visibility for signs erected by the department.

(C)   The vegetation management activities conducted by the department shall not interfere in any way with the visibility of any outdoor advertising sign.

(D)   If the Department of Natural Resources makes an assessment and written determination that vegetation management pursuant to this section causes an increase in safety risks because of the attraction of wildlife to a specific area along the highway, then the department may increase the distance from the pavement required to be mowed."

SECTION 6.   The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 56-1-2156.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a commercial motor vehicle driver may not be assessed points against his driving record for failing to comply with lane restrictions posted on the interstate highway system by the Department of Transportation. For purposes of this section, a driver record means a commercial driver's license issued pursuant to Article 13, Chapter 1 of Title 56 and a driver's license issued pursuant to Section 56-1-130 for which points are assessed in Section 56-1-720."

SECTION   7.   Sections 56-5-1510 and 57-3-175 of the 1976 Code are repealed.

SECTION   8.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /

Amend title to conform.

/s/ Senator Harvey Peeler         /s/ Rep. Ronald P. Townsend
/s/ Senator Arthur Ravenel        /s/ Rep. Becky Martin
/s/ Senator Brad Hutto            /s/ Rep. John M. Knotts
On Part of the Senate.             On Part of the House.

, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

S. 734 (Word version) -- Senator Drummond: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND AND CONGRATULATE COLONEL DENNIS E. DREW OF GREENWOOD ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

The following Joint Resolution was read the third time and having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 3362 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, Lucas and J. Hines: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT UP TO THREE SCHOOL DAYS MISSED BY STUDENTS OF THE DARLINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT IN DARLINGTON COUNTY FOR SCHOOL YEAR 1998-99 WHEN THEIR SCHOOLS WERE CLOSED DUE TO HURRICANE CONDITIONS OR DUE TO THEIR SCHOOLS BEING USED AS EVACUATION LOCATIONS DURING HURRICANE CONDITIONS ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT OF THE DEFINED MINIMUM PLAN THAT FULL SCHOOL DAYS MISSED DUE TO EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES BE MADE UP.

(By prior motion of Senator SALEEBY, with unanimous consent)

The following House Bills were read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 3445 (Word version) -- Reps. Keegan, Carnell, H. Brown, Harrell, Quinn and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-107-90, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ONE HUNDRED TWENTY MILLION DOLLAR OVER ALL DEBT LIMIT ON STATE INSTITUTION BONDS, SO AS TO REPEAL THE LIMIT AND PROVIDE THAT THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF ANNUAL DEBT SERVICE ON ALL OUTSTANDING STATE INSTITUTION BONDS FOR EACH STATE INSTITUTION SHALL NOT EXCEED NINETY PERCENT OF THE SUMS RECEIVED BY SUCH STATE INSTITUTION.

H. 3579 (Word version) -- Education and Public Works Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-5-68 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PROCEDURE WHEREBY THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL ADOPT AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS SHALL USE A UNIFORM GRADING SYSTEM NO LATER THAN SCHOOL YEAR 2000-2001.

The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House of Representatives:

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.

(By prior motion of Senator PASSAILAIGUE)

S. 33 (Word version) -- Senators Moore, O'Dell, Elliott, Giese, Rankin, Washington and Setzler: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-211 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS, 1976, RELATING TO THE MEDICAL DISCIPLINARY COMMISSION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF MEMBERS OF THE MEDICAL DISCIPLINARY COMMISSION TO THIRTY-SIX MEMBERS, TO REQUIRE SIX MEMBERS TO BE ELECTED AT LARGE FROM ACROSS THE STATE AND TO REQUIRE MEMBERS TO BE CURRENTLY LICENSED AND ACTIVELY PRACTICING MEDICINE IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

S. 239 (Word version) -- Senators Giese, Elliott and Leventis: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 33, AS AMENDED, TITLE 43, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RIGHTS OF DISABLED PERSONS, SO AS TO PROMOTE THE USE OF ASSISTANCE DOGS AND TO ASSURE EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY, PARTICIPATION, AND TREATMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES USING GUIDE DOGS AND TO PROVIDE FOR A CIVIL REMEDY AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

S. 494 (Word version) -- Senator Saleeby: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-53-950, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SALE OF HYPODERMIC NEEDLES AND SYRINGES, SO AS TO EXEMPT CERTIFIED DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT PROVIDERS FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF ARTICLE 7 WHEN A HYPODERMIC NEEDLE OR SYRINGE IS SOLD TO INSULIN DEPENDENT DIABETICS.

S. 727 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 63 OF TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PUPILS, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SYSTEM OF ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS FOR SPECIFIED STUDENTS IN GRADES 6-12 FOR WHICH A SCHOOL DISTRICT SHALL RECEIVE CERTAIN FUNDING IF IT CHOOSES TO ESTABLISH, MAINTAIN, AND OPERATE AN ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL EITHER INDIVIDUALLY OR THROUGH A COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH OTHER DISTRICTS, AND TO REPEAL SECTION 59-18-1900 RELATING TO COMPETITIVE GRANTS TO FUND ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS.

S. 728 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 44 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HEALTH, BY ADDING CHAPTER 76, THE "SOUTH CAROLINA AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR ACT".

(By prior motion of Senator GIESE, with unanimous consent)

S. 120 (Word version) -- Senator Mescher: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-17-700, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TATTOOING, SO AS TO PERMIT TATTOOING OF PERSONS OVER TWENTY-ONE YEARS OF AGE PURSUANT TO RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PREVENTING TRANSMISSION OF INFECTION AND GUIDELINES FOR PREVENTION OF TRANSMISSION OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS AND HEPATITIS B VIRUS PROMULGATED BY THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE

Senator PASSAILAIGUE asked unanimous consent to take the Bill up for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill. The question being the third reading of the Bill.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE proposed the following amendment (120R002.ELP), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking the bill in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof:

/   TO AMEND SECTION 16-17-700, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TATTOOING, SO AS TO PERMIT TATTOOING OF PERSONS OVER TWENTY-ONE YEARS OF AGE PURSUANT TO RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PREVENTING TRANSMISSION OF INFECTION AND GUIDELINES FOR PREVENTION OF TRANSMISSION OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS AND HEPATITIS B VIRUS PROMULGATED BY THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL, OR EQUIVALENT GUIDELINES DEVELOPED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

SECTION   1.   Section 16-17-700 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 16-17-700.   (A)   It is unlawful for a person to tattoo:

(1)   any part of the body of another person under the age of twenty one without express written consent of the parent or guardian of the person and unless the original written consent is kept on file, for a period of two years from the date of the tattoo, at the establishment performing the tattoo;

(2)   any part of the head, face, or neck of another person;

(3)   another person without first applying for and obtaining a permit issued by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. The department shall issue this permit, renewable annually, to a person upon the submission of:

(a)   a certificate of the applicant's successful completion of a course in infection control as approved by the department;

(b)   payment of a three hundred dollar permit fee; and

(c)   a favorable recommendation of the local governing body where the business will be located. In making its recommendation, the local governing body shall consider the criminal background of the applicant as provided by the sheriff of the county where the applicant

It However, it is not unlawful for a licensed physician or surgeon to tattoo part of a patient's the body of a person of any age if in his the physician's or surgeon's medical opinion it is necessary when performing cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.

A person who violates the provisions of this section for a first offense is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined in the discretion of the court not less than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than one year, or both. For a second or subsequent offense, a person must be fined not less than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not less than one year, or both.

(B)   A tattoo artist conspicuously shall display:

(1)   a clearly legible notice to patrons informing them of any disqualification which tattooing may confer upon a prospective blood donor according to the current and subsequent amendments to standards of the American Association of Blood Banks. This notice must also appear in any informed consent or release form which a tattoo artist uses;

(2)   the certificate of successful completion of a course in infection control as approved by the department; and

(3)   the permit issued by the department pursuant to subsection (A).

(C)   A tattoo artist, in order to comply with department infection control precautions, must:

(1)   wash his hands with soap and water before and after each recipient's procedure;

(2)   use single-use disposable sterile or surgical style gloves when performing tattoo procedures on recipients. These gloves must never be washed or reused in any manner and must be immediately discarded and replaced upon notice of a tear or other defect;

(3)   use sterilized or disposable razors on individuals who must undergo shaving of hair;

(4)   clean the recipient's skin with a germicidal solution approved by the department;

(5)   use on each recipient either (a) sterile, disposable needles and injection equipment which is designated and sterilely packaged as single-use only or (b) reusable needles and injection equipment only if properly sterilized by autoclave or chemical germicide used in accordance with the manufacturer's directions;

(6)   dispose of the used needles and injection equipment in safety puncture-proof containers as approved by the department and must dispose of the used needle containers in a manner prescribed by the department; and

(7)   allow and cooperate with on-site inspections as considered necessary by the department.

(D)   A tattoo artist must not:

(1)   use stencils to transfer designs to skin or containers of ink or dye unless separate, disposable single-use stencils or containers are used on each recipient;

(2)   use alum or styptic pencils considered necessary to control bleeding unless a separate, disposable single-use item is used on each recipient.

(E)   A person engaged in tattooing shall verify by means of a picture identification that a recipient is at least twenty-one years of age. For purposes of this section, 'picture identification' means (a) a valid South Carolina driver's license; or (b) an official photographic identification card issued by the South Carolina Department of Revenue, a federal or state law enforcement agency, an agency of the United States Department of Defense, or United States Department of State. Proof that the defendant demanded, was shown, and reasonably relied upon proof of age is a defense to an action brought pursuant to this section.

(F)   The department may revoke a permit or deny an application for a new or renewed permit for violations of the provisions of this section. The revocation or denial may be appealed as a contested case pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act. A person engaged in tattooing whose permit has been revoked or denied may not reapply for a period of one year from the date of revocation or denial."

SECTION   2.   Chapter 17, Title 16 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 16-17-705.   A person who is tattooed while under the age of eighteen twenty-one in violation of Section 16-17-700(A)(1) may bring an action in the circuit court against the person convicted of the violation to recover actual damages and punitive damages plus costs of the action and attorney's fees, subject to Section 15-3-40."

SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the third time and ordered sent to the House of Representatives.

The following Bill, having been read the second time with notice of general amendments, was ordered placed on the third reading Calendar:

S. 676 (Word version) -- Senator Bryan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-310, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MEMBERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION MUST BE ELECTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY RATHER THAN APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.

S. 558 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott, Waldrep, Glover, Ford, Holland and Saleeby: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 1, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT, BY ADDING CHAPTER 32 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA INDIAN AFFAIRS COMMISSION, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS PURPOSE, MEMBERSHIP, AND DUTIES.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill. The question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator ELLIOTT proposed the following amendment (JUD0558.001.DOC), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 4, line 6, as contained in SECTION 1, by inserting:

/ Section 1-32-65.   The commission shall not have the power or authority to take any action which would advance or promote any form of gambling in South Carolina. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ELLIOTT explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

The following Bills and Joint Resolutions, having been read the second time, were ordered placed on the third reading Calendar:

S. 384 (Word version) -- Senators Anderson, Washington, Matthews, Patterson, Glover, Ford and Reese: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 24-3-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF PLACES OF CONFINEMENT FOR A PERSON CONVICTED OF AN OFFENSE AGAINST THE STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS SHALL CONSIDER PROXIMITY TO THE HOME OF THE CONVICTED PERSON IN DESIGNATING THE PLACE OF HIS CONFINEMENT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Senator THOMAS explained the Bill.

S. 741 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO BASIC SKILLS ASSESSMENT PROGRAM, MINIMUM STANDARDS OF STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT FOR READING AND MATHEMATICS IN GRADE 11 (REPEAL), DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2371, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

S. 743 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO USE AND DISSEMINATION OF TEST RESULTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2368, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

S. 744 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION,

S. 745 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO BASIC SKILLS ASSESSMENT PROGRAM, MINIMUM STANDARDS OF STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT FOR GRADES 1, 2, 3, 6, AND 8 (REPEAL), DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2370, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

H. 3919 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughn, Allison, F. Smith, Cato, Davenport, Easterday, Hamilton, Haskins, Hawkins, Lanford, Leach, Lee, Littlejohn, Loftis, McMahand, Rice, D. Smith, Tripp, Walker and Wilkins: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 745 OF 1967, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE BOUNDARIES OF WESTERN CAROLINA REGIONAL SEWER AUTHORITY, SO AS TO ADD TWO NEW AREAS TO THE TERRITORY OF THE AUTHORITY.

S. 670 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-355, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE HUNTING OF DEER NEAR RESIDENCES SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A LANDOWNER HUNTING ON HIS OWN LAND, HIS LICENSEE, OR A PERSON TAKING DEER PURSUANT TO A DEPARTMENT PERMIT ARE EXEMPT FROM THE PROHIBITION AGAINST HUNTING WITHIN THREE HUNDRED YARDS OF A RESIDENCE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill. The question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator BRYAN proposed the following amendment (670R001.JEB), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 1, line 32, by striking the words / his licensee, /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator BRYAN explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

The following Bills and Resolutions were carried over:

S. 591 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Ravenel, Hutto, Leventis and Cork: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 1, TITLE 48 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE POLLUTION CONTROL ACT, BY ADDING SECTION 48-1-83 SO AS TO ESTABLISH STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS FOR DISSOLVED OXYGEN DEPRESSIONS IN NATURALLY LOW DISSOLVED OXYGEN WATERBODIES.

On motion of Senator MOORE, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

On motion of Senator PASSAILAIGUE, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator PASSAILAIGUE was added as a co-sponsor of the Bill.

H. 3082 (Word version) -- Reps. Townsend, Walker, Delleney, J. Brown, Stuart, Harrison, Allison, J. Hines, Edge, Robinson, Rodgers, Cato, Wilkins, Sandifer, Moody-Lawrence, Lourie, J. Smith, F. Smith, Rutherford, Maddox, Allen, Ott, Harvin, Kennedy, Jennings, Bales, Hayes, W. McLeod, Simrill, Knotts and Webb: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 63 OF TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PUPILS, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS, REQUIREMENTS, AND PROCEDURES UNDER WHICH LOCAL SCHOOL BOARDS OF TRUSTEES BEGINNING WITH SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 SHALL ESTABLISH AND OPERATE A PROGRAM OF ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS FOR CERTAIN STUDENTS IN THEIR DISTRICTS, TO PERMIT THESE ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL PROGRAMS TO BE OPERATED EITHER INDIVIDUALLY OR AS

On motion of Senator ANDERSON, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

H. 3697 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 1998-99.

On motion of Senator DRUMMOND, with unanimous consent, the Joint Resolution was carried over.

S. 85 (Word version) -- Senators Thomas and Giese: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 24-3-550, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO WITNESSES PERMITTED TO VIEW AN EXECUTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A CONVICT MAY SUBSTITUTE ONE PERSON FOR EITHER HIS COUNSEL OR A MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL, OR TWO PERSONS FOR BOTH HIS COUNSEL AND A MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL.

On motion of Senator THOMAS, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

S. 96 (Word version) -- Senators Thomas, Elliott, Courtney, Ryberg, Wilson, Russell and Fair: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 24-21-570 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES TO COLLECT RESTITUTION AND FINES FROM PERSONS RELEASED ON PROBATION, PAROLE, SUPERVISED FURLOUGH, OR CONDITIONAL RELEASE.

On motion of Senator THOMAS, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

S. 618 (Word version) -- Senators Moore and Waldrep: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 24 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CORRECTIONS, JAILS, PROBATIONS, PAROLES, AND PARDONS, BY ADDING CHAPTER 2, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN INMATE HEALTH CARE OMBUDSMAN TO ENSURE PROPER HEALTH CARE SERVICE TO INMATES AND TO PROVIDE FOR A CITIZENS PRISON HEALTH CARE ADVISORY BOARD.

On motion of Senator COURSON, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

S. 742 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO GIFTED AND TALENTED PROGRAMS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2280, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Joint Resolution was carried over.

THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF H. 3696, THE GENERAL APPROPRIATION BILL.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill. The question being the third reading of the Bill.

Senator DRUMMOND spoke on the Bill.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.

Senator SETZLER, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Public and Higher Education, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.

Senator LAND, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Judicial, Corrections, Law Enforcement and Transportation, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.

Debate was interrupted by the Joint Assembly.

At 11:55 A.M., the Senate receded from business for the purpose of attending the Joint Assembly.

At 12:00 Noon, 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:

H. 3426 (Word version) -- Rep. Harris: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION INVITING THE WINNERS OF THE 1999 JEAN LANEY HARRIS FOLK HERITAGE AWARDS AND THE MEMBERS OF THE 1999 JEAN LANEY HARRIS FOLK HERITAGE AWARDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO ATTEND A JOINT SESSION OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE SENATE IN THE HALL OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 1999, AT 12:00 NOON AND TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE 1999 JEAN LANEY HARRIS FOLK HERITAGE AWARD WINNERS FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO FOLK ART IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

The PRESIDENT appointed Senators RUSSELL, HAYES, COURTNEY, WASHINGTON and MARTIN to the Escort Committee on behalf of the Senate.

The Speaker appointed Representatives Harris, Delleney, Rodgers, Robinson, Hawkins and Smith to the Escort Committee on behalf of the House of Representatives.

The Escort Committees of the Senate and House accompanied the winners of the 1999 Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award and the members of the 1999 Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award Advisory

The PRESIDENT introduced the Speaker of the House who, in turn, introduced the respective award winners who were presented certificates by the PRESIDENT honoring their respective talents.

The winners entertained the members of the Joint Assembly -- Ms. Nola Harris Campbell of Rock Hill displayed her works as a Catawba Indian Nation Master Potter; Ms. Veronica D. Gerald of St. Helena Island is an advocate for the S.C. Gullah Culture; the Jackson Brothers from the African-American A Capella Gospel Singers of Easley performed an a capella piece; Mr. Harold Vernon Riddle of Spartanburg performed on his fiddle; and "Colonel" Gene Wyatt of Spartanburg flat-picked his guitar for the enjoyment of the membership.

The purposes of the Joint Assembly having been accomplished, the PRESIDENT declared it duly adjourned, whereupon the Senate returned to its Chamber and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

At 12:25 P.M., on motion of Senator DRUMMOND, the Senate receded from business until 2:30 P.M.

The Senate reassembled at 2:33 P.M., and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

The Senate resumed consideration of the Bill. The question being the third reading of the Bill.

Senator LEVENTIS, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Natural Resources, Agriculture, Economic Development and Regulatory Affairs, was recognized to report to the Senate regarding the work of the subcommittee.

Senator SETZLER raised a Point of Order that Proviso 24A, as it applies to Section 51, Part II of the Bill, was out of order under the provisions of Rule 24A inasmuch as the amendment did not "relate to the raising and spending of revenue for or in the fiscal year for which the Bill applies."

Senators PASSAILAIGUE, BRYAN, McCONNELL and MARTIN spoke on the Point of Order.

The PRESIDENT overruled the Point of Order.

Senator DRUMMOND spoke on the Bill.

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 26 (SBD001.DOC), which was adopted (#1):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IA, Section 1, Department of Education, page 004, line 38, by:

COLUMN 7   COLUMN 8

/   STRIKING:   38, 066,486   38,066,486/

and

/   INSERTING:   36,962,622   36,962,622/

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, Section 1, Department of Education, page 004, line 36, by:

COLUMN 7   COLUMN 8

/   STRIKING:   14,876,064   11,951,064/

and

/   INSERTING:   15,979,928   13,054,928/

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 23 (SBD/011.DOC), which was adopted (#2):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IA, Section 1, Department of Education, page 14, line 8, by:

COLUMN 7   COLUMN 8
/   STRIKING:   2,901,998   /

and
/   INSERTING:   2,631,998   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator THOMAS proposed the following Amendment No. 38 (NIC006.DOC), which was adopted (#3A):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IA, Section 56C, Governor's Office - Executive Policy & Programs, page 327, after line 22, by inserting:

COLUMN 7   COLUMN 8

/LITTER CONTROL

PROGRAM   200,000   200,000/

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator THOMAS explained the amendment.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Clerk's Note: On Thursday, April 22, 1999, Amendment No. 180 (NIC0014) was adopted (#3A) as follows:

Senator THOMAS proposed the following Amendment No. 180 (NIC0014.DOC), which was adopted (#3A):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IA, Section 56C, Governor's Office - Executive Policy & Programs, page 327, by further amending

COLUMN 7   COLUMN 8

/   STRIKING:                 200,000       200,000

and

INSERTING:                   300,000       300,000/

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

and substituted for Amendment No. 38 (#3).

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 27 (SBD003.DOC), which was adopted (#4):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, Department of Education, page 407, proviso 1.47, line 31, by striking / line 31 / and inserting:

/ 1.47 (SDE:XA-Adult Education/Literacy) From the funds appropriated for adult education /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 28 (SBD004.DOC), which was adopted (#5):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, Department of Education, page 408, proviso 1.51, line 14, by striking/ line 14 / and inserting:

/ 1.51. (SDE: School Building Aid Allocation) Funds appropriated for School Building Aid shall be /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 30 (SBD005.DOC), which was adopted (#6):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, Department of Education, page 408, proviso 1.52, line 19, by striking after the word "in" and before the word "of " the following:
/ Section X.F. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 29 (SBD006.DOC), which was adopted (#7):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, Department of Education, page 408, proviso 1.53, line 23, by striking after the word "in" and before the word "for" the following:

/ , Section X.F. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 25 (SBD002.DOC) which was adopted (#8):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, Department of Education, page 408, proviso 1.55, line 29, by striking / lines 29 through 31 / and inserting:

/ 1.55 (SDE: (SAT/PLAN Reimbursement) Funds appropriated for assessment shall be used to pay for the administration of the PSAT

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend sections, totals and title to conform.

Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator SETZLER proposed the following Amendment No. 64 (SBD/012.DOC), which was adopted (#9):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, Department of Education, page 410, proviso 1A.8, line 30, by striking / lines 30, 31, 32, and 33 / and inserting:

/ the school district for that service. Of the remaining ninety percent (90%) of state dollars appropriated for gifted and talented programs, not more than $500,000 may be used to provide testing and teacher training. The remaining funds shall be expended in accordance with Section 59-29-170. Each district receiving funds for the gifted and talented program shall include an accelerated component as a part of its academically gifted and talented program. EIA-Gifted and Talented funds may be carried forward and expended for the same purpose in the current fiscal year. /

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Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator SETZLER proposed the following Amendment No. 62 (3696EMS4), which was adopted (#10):

Amend the committee report, as and if amended, Part 1B, Section 1A, page 418, line 37, Education-EIA, by adding an appropriately numbered proviso to read:

/   1. .   (SDE: Principal Evaluation)   To ensure the effective and efficient use of the funding provided by the General Assembly in Part IA, Section 1 X.D. for leadership management pertaining to the statewide performance standards for principals required by Section 59-24-40, the development and testing of criteria shall continue for the 1999-2000 school year. Therefore, statewide implementation shall begin with the with the 2000-2001 school year. /.

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Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator J.VERNE SMITH proposed the following Amendment No. 18 (BBH009.DOC), which was adopted (#11):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 8, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES, page 433, proviso 8.28, line 4 - line 7, by striking the proviso in its entirety and inserting /8.28 (DHHS: Generic Drugs) With respect to prescriptions reimbursed through the South Carolina Medicaid Program, Medicaid recipients for whom the pharmaceuticals are intended are deemed to have consented to substitution of a less costly equivalent generic product which will result in a cost savings to the South Carolina Medicaid program. Therefore, individual patient consent for substitution as required in S.C. Code of Laws 40-43-86 (H) (6) shall not be required./

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Senator J. VERNE SMITH explained the amendment.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator J.VERNE SMITH proposed the following Amendment No. 19 (BBH008.DOC), which was adopted (#12):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 8, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES, page 433, proviso 8.30, line 17, by striking /each agency shall provide their proportionate share based on the FY 1996-97 expenditure./ and inserting /each agency's share of the additional funds will be determined in accordance with a methodology to be designed and agreed upon by the agency directors./

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Senator J. VERNE SMITH explained the amendment.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators DRUMMOND and J. VERNE SMITH proposed the following Amendment No. 15 (BBH001.DOC), which was adopted (#13):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 9, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, page 439, proviso 9.18, line 23, by striking /4,379,015/ and inserting /4,415,515/

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Senator J. VERNE SMITH explained the amendment.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator SHORT proposed the following Amendment No. 14 (BBH006.DOC), which was adopted (#14):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 13, DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, page 449, proviso 13.22, line 21, by adding at the end: /Provided, further, that $100,000 of the funds shall be allocated to the S.C. Council on Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention to provide technical assistance to counties to help in setting up pregnancy prevention programs./

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Senator SHORT explained the amendment.

Senator SHORT moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator ALEXANDER proposed the following Amendment No. 13 (800MHZRADI.DOC), which was adopted (#15):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, SECTION 36, Department of Public Safety, page 465, proviso NEW, after line 28, by adding an appropriately numbered paragraph to read:

/   36.___.   It is the intent of the General Assembly to provide a communications system which provides a modern technology platform for all public safety agencies. The General Assembly understands the importance of providing a communications network which ensures the safety of all individuals responding to emergency situations throughout the State. In accordance with its statutory duties to coordinate certain statewide law enforcement activities, the South Carolina Public Safety Coordinating Council is responsible for studying and reporting back to the General Assembly by January 1, 2000, on the status of the State's public safety and law enforcements communications needs. The purpose of the report shall include, but not be limited to, making recommendations and funding proposals to update the state's communication infrastructure needs. The Director of the Department of Public Safety is responsible for coordinating and providing department resources for the study if requested. All other governmental agencies shall provide such assistance to the Council as may be necessary to complete the report.   /

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Senator ALEXANDER explained the amendment.

Senator ALEXANDER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators LAND and LEVENTIS proposed the following Amendment No. 37 (DNRPAYJCL.DOC), which was adopted (#16):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 24, DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, page 455, proviso 24.___, line 37, by adding an appropriately numbered paragraph to read:

/   24.___ (DNR: Salary Increase) The funds appropriated in this Section for a 5% general salary increase are to increase the salaries of all conservation officers in the Department, effective the first payroll in January 2000. This general increase is in addition to any other increase provided to all State employees in other sections of this act.   /

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Senator LEVENTIS explained the amendment.

Senator LEVENTIS moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator LAND proposed the following Amendment No. 34 (NIC003.DOC), which was adopted (#17):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 30, Judicial Department, page 460, proviso 30.13, line 15, by striking /15-26-155/ and inserting /15-27-155/

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Senator DRUMMOND explained the amendment.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator WILSON proposed the following Amendment No. 11 (15603HTC99.DOC), which was adopted (#18):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 54, Legislative Department, page 481, proviso 29, line 12, by striking /$1,500/ and inserting /$3,000/.

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Senator DRUMMOND explained the amendment.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators LAND and ALEXANDER proposed the following Amendment No. 33 (NIC002.DOC), which was adopted (#19):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 72, General and Temporary, page 518, proviso 72.33, lines 11 and 12, by striking the proviso in its entirety.

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Senator DRUMMOND explained the amendment.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator DRUMMOND proposed the following Amendment No. 45A (SBD/009.DOC), which was adopted (#20):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 72, General and Temporary, page 524, proviso 72.48, by striking / line 2 / and inserting:

/ voluntary deferred compensation plan authorized by the Internal Revenue Code, is authorized to make contributions to the /

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Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator SETZLER proposed the following Amendment No. 49A (SBD/010.DOC), which was adopted (#21):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 72, General and Temporary, page 524, proviso 72.48, lines 4- 10, by striking / all language after the word "applicable" / and inserting:
/ Appropriations provided for contributions to the accounts of State employees for the current fiscal year must be used beginning January 1, 2000 at the rate of $300 per year or any proration as may be accommodated by the funds authorized to any State employee who has established an active 401K account in the manner approved by the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Commission. Specific procedures to implement this proviso will be developed by the State Budget and Control Board. /

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Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

At 3:40 P.M., on motion of Senator J. VERNE SMITH, the Senate receded from business not to exceed fifteen minutes.

At 3:55 P.M., the Senate resumed.

Senator MESCHER proposed the following Amendment No. 73 (EMS14.DOC), which was adopted (#22):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 1, Department of Education, page 404, proviso 1.25, line 19, by inserting:

/. Governing boards of public institutions of higher education may provide by policy or regulation for a tuition waiver for the tuition for one three-hour course at that institution for those public school teachers who serve as supervisors for full time students completing education degree requirements.   /

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Senator MESCHER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator SETZLER proposed the following Amendment No. 67 (3696EMS3), which was adopted (#23):

Amend the committee report, as and if amended, in Part IB, Section 1, page 406, line 13, proviso 1.35, Education, by inserting after / funding /:

/   ; however, no district or consortium that received funds under the Education Accountability Act's alternative schools grant program shall receive less funds for its alternative school than received in the prior fiscal year if the eligibility criteria are met /.

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Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator MARTIN proposed the following Amendment No. 75 (3696EMS1), which was tabled:

Amend the committee report, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 5A, page 425, line 18, Higher Education, by adding an appropriately numbered proviso to read:

/   5A. .   (CHE: LIFE Scholarships)   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, students attending an out-of-state public institution which offers a program of study not offered by South Carolina institutions shall be eligible for a LIFE scholarship if all other requirements are met. Recipients of a LIFE Scholarship under this provision shall be responsible for providing to the Commission on Higher Education the documentation required to maintain their eligibility throughout the duration of the scholarship. /.

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Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER spoke on the amendment.

Senator MARTIN moved that the amendment be adopted.

Senator SETZLER moved to lay the amendment on the table.

The amendment was laid on the table.

Senators SALEEBY and MARTIN proposed the following Amendment No. 79 (BD014.DOC), which was adopted (#24):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 42, Public Service Commission, page 471, by striking proviso 42.8 in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof:

/ 42.8 (PSC:Transfer of Funds) From funds in Subfund 3035 named Operating Revenue, the Commission shall transfer $100,000 to the Department of Agriculture for improvements to the Pickens County Extension Office, $150,000 to the South Carolina State Library for the Lamar Library, $500,000 to the South Carolina State Library for improvements to the Cherokee County Library and $100,000 to the Department of Commerce for improvements to the Sumter County Airport. /

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Senator DRUMMOND explained the amendment.

Senator DRUMMOND moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH proposed the following Amendment No. 85 (LCI\LLR2), which was adopted (#25):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 50, Labor, Licensing and Regulation, page 474, after line 10, by adding an appropriately numbered paragraph to read:

/50.___ (LLR: Contractor's Licensing Board) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an individual holding a license in the general contractor specialty classifications of "masonry" and "process piping" as of December 31, 1998, and remaining actively engaged in boiler work under these specialty licenses, will be licensed to engage in boiler

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Senator J. VERNE SMITH explained the amendment.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

On motion of Senator DRUMMOND, with unanimous consent, the Senate proceeded to a consideration of Part II provisions, with the understanding that, if anyone objected to the adoption of an amendment or any Part II provision, a division or a roll call vote would be taken to ascertain whether the two-thirds vote requirement under the provisions of Rule 24B would be met.

Senator SETZLER proposed the following Amendment No. 63 (3696EMS5.DOC), which was adopted (#26):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part II, SECTION 2, page 533, line 5 by deleting / one hundred thousand / and inserting:

/   fifty thousand   /.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, Part II, SECTION 2, page 533, line 6 after / population. / by inserting:
/   However, districts in a multi-district county with a total student population of less than 7,000 will not qualify for base funding for an alternative school unless in a consortium. /.

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Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator SETZLER moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators HUTTO and HOLLAND proposed the following Amendment No. 55A (JUD3696.002), which was adopted (#27):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part II, SECTION 11, page 539, beginning on line 24, in Section 56-5-2990(B), by striking lines 24 through 29 in their entirety and inserting therein the following:
/ "Safety Action Program certified by the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services prior to reinstatement of the license. An assessment of the extent and nature of the alcohol and drug abuse problem, if any, of the applicant must be prepared and a plan of education or treatment, or both, must be developed for the applicant. Entry into and successful completion of the services, if the services are necessary, recommended in the plan of education or treatment, or both, developed for the applicant is a mandatory requirement of the restoration of driving privileges to the applicant whose license is suspended pursuant to this section. The Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program shall determine if the applicant has successfully completed the services. Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Programs shall begin at least once a month. The person whose license is suspended must enroll in the first Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program available after the date of enrollment. /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, Part II, SECTION 11, page 540, by striking line 31 in its entirety and inserting therein the following:
/ C.   Section 56-5-2951(L), (M), (N), (O), and (P) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 434 of 1998, are further amended to read:

"(L)   A person's driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege must be restored when the person's period of suspension under subsection (J) has concluded, even if the person has not yet completed the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program in which he is enrolled. After the person's driving privilege is restored, he must continue to attend classes for the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program in which he is enrolled. If the person withdraws from or in any way stops making satisfactory progress toward the completion of the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program, the person's license shall be suspended until the completion of the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program. A person must be enrolled in or have completed an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program pursuant to subsection (A)

(M)   When a nonresident's privilege to drive a motor vehicle in this State has been suspended under the provisions of this section, the department must give written notice of the action taken to the motor vehicle administrator of the state of the person's residence and of any state in which he has a license or permit.

(M)   (N)   The department shall not suspend the privilege to drive of a person under the age of twenty-one pursuant to Section 56-1-286 if the person's privilege to drive has been suspended under this section arising from the same incident.

(N) (O)   A person whose driver's license or permit is suspended pursuant to this section is not required to file proof of financial responsibility.

(O) (P)   An insurer may not increase premiums on or add surcharges to the automobile insurance of a person charged with a violation of Sections 56-1-286, 56-5-2930, or 56-5-2945 or any other law of this State or another state that prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug unless he is convicted of the violation.

(P) (Q)     The department shall administer the provisions of this section and shall promulgate regulations necessary to carry out its provisions."

D.   This section takes effect July 1, 1999. /

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Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

Senator HUTTO moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE proposed the following Amendment No. 50 (1473MM99), which was adopted (#28):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part II, page 551, beginning on line 5, by striking SECTION 21 in its entirety and inserting:

TO AMEND CHAPTER 45, TITLE 12 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO COUNTY TREASURERS AND THE COLLECTION OF TAXES, BY ADDING SECTION 12-45-85 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A LOCAL MATCH PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF FUND COMPOSED OF MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSING AND REGISTRATION FEES NOT ALREADY CREDITED OTHERWISE AND MATCHING FUNDS FROM COUNTIES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF THE FUNDS TO REDUCE AD VALOREM TAX ON PERSONAL MOTOR VEHICLES.

A. Chapter 45, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-45-85.   (A)   There is established in the State Treasury a separate and distinct fund to be known as the Local Match Personal Property Tax Relief Fund. An amount equivalent to all revenue from motor vehicle licensing and registration fees collected pursuant to Chapter 3 of Title 56 of the 1976 Code, except for the fees collected under Section 56-3-660 and 56-3-670, must be credited to the fund. All monies deposited to this fund must be accounted for separately and any interest accruing from the investment of the monies on deposit with the fund must be credited to the fund and used for the same purpose as the principle. The fund must be used to make allocations available to the several counties for the purpose of assisting the counties in reducing the ad valorem tax on personal motor vehicles.

(B)   The monies credited to the Local Match Personal Property Tax Relief Fund must be allocated annually to separate county accounts, one each established in the name of the forty-six counties. The monies must be divided and allocated to the various county accounts based on a ratio equal to the total number of personal motor vehicles registered in a county divided by the total number of personal motor vehicles registered statewide at close of the preceding calendar year or fiscal year as determined by the State Treasurer. Allocations in the fund may be drawn on by a county in whole or in part and must be distributed by the State Treasurer under the following conditions:

(1)   the county governing body must hold at least one public hearing to inform the citizenry that funds have been allocated in the Local Match Personal Property Tax Relief Fund and are available for distribution to the county for the purpose of reducing the ad valorem tax on personal motor vehicles;

(2)   the county governing body must set aside an amount of funds equal to the amount to be drawn from the county allocation from

(3)   the county must certify to the State Treasurer that it has held the required public hearing, that it has set aside an amount of funds equal to the amount the county intends to draw against the allocation it is eligible to receive from the Local Match Personal Property Tax Relief Fund, and that the funds set aside are from the existing county revenues and are for no other purpose but to match the allocation from the fund;

(4)   the aggregate of the state allocation drawn from the fund and the local match must be used for the exclusive purpose of reducing the ad valorem tax on personal motor vehicles and must be distributed to eligible persons in an equitable manner based on the fair market value of the vehicle; and

(5)   any allocation in a fiscal year which has not been drawn in accordance with the provisions of this item as of January 31 of the succeeding year must revert to the general fund and must be appropriated for tax relief as the General Assembly may direct.

C. Beginning in fiscal year 1999-00, an amount equivalent to the fees collected pursuant to Chapter 3 of Title 56, except for Sections 56-3-660 and 56-3-670, must be credited to the Local Match Personal Property Tax Relief Fund."

B. Subsections 12-45-85(A) and (C) of this section take effect June 30, 2000, and subsection 12-45-85(B) of this section takes effect July 1, 2001. /

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Senator PASSAILAIGUE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators WILSON, SETZLER, RUSSELL, COURTNEY, GIESE, and HAYES proposed the following Amendment No. 72 (PT\1454DW99), which was tabled:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part II, Permanent Provisions, beginning on page 563, by striking SECTION 51 in its entirety.

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Senator WILSON explained the amendment.

Senator DRUMMOND spoke on the amendment.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE argued contra to the adoption of the amendment.

Senator SETZLER argued in favor of the adoption of the amendment.

Senator GIESE argued in favor of the adoption of the amendment.

Senator LAND moved to lay the amendment on the table.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bryan
Drummond                  Elliott                   Fair
Ford                      Glover                    Gregory
Grooms                    Hutto                     Jackson
Land                      Leatherman                Leventis
Martin                    Matthews *                McConnell
McGill                    Moore                     O'Dell
Passailaigue              Patterson                 Peeler
Rankin                    Ravenel                   Ryberg
Saleeby                   Short                     Thomas
Washington *

Bauer                     Branton                   Cork
Courson                   Courtney                  Giese
Hayes                     Reese                     Russell
Setzler                   Smith, J. Verne           Waldrep
Wilson

*These Senators were not present in the Chamber at the time the vote was taken and the votes were recorded by leave of the Senate, with unanimous consent.

The amendment was laid on the table.

We voted against the tabling motion because the Richland County school districts would lose several million dollars on the proposed formulation based on the 1990 census.

Senator LEVENTIS asked unanimous consent to take up Amendment No. 99 for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

Senators LEVENTIS, McGILL and MARTIN proposed the following Amendment No. 99 (BD025.DOC), which was adopted (#29):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part IB, Section 42, Public Service Commission, page 471, proviso 42.8, by inserting immediately following 'Airport' on line 15, the following:

/ The commission shall transfer an additional $150,000 to the Budget and Control Board, division of Regional Development, Office of Local Government for the water and sewer infrastructure needs of GW521.252 in Greeleyville. /

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Senator LEVENTIS explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators SETZLER, WILSON, RUSSELL and HAYES proposed the following Amendment No. 100 (1480STD99.DOC), which was tabled:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part II, SECTION 51, by striking subsection B. of SECTION 51 as contained on line 1 of page 564 and inserting:

/ B.   This section applies for property tax years beginning on the first day of January after the General Assembly adopts the year 2000 Census as official. /

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Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE moved to lay the amendment on the table.

The amendment was laid on the table.

Senators GIESE and HUTTO proposed the following Amendment No. 31 (DKA\3435MM99), which was adopted (#30):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 44-76-20(1), SECTION 62, PART II, page 571, line 38, by deleting /a/ before /medical/ and inserting / an automated /.

Amend further, page 572, beginning on line 24, by deleting Section 44-76-40 in its entirety and inserting:

/ Section 44-76-40.     (A)   A person or an entity acting in good faith and without compensation is immune from civil liability for the application of an AED unless the person or entity was grossly negligent in the application.

(B)   A designated AED user meeting the requirements of Section 44-76-30(1) and acting according to the required training is immune from civil liability for the application of an AED unless the user was grossly negligent in the application.

(C)   A person or an entity acquiring an AED and meeting the requirements of Section 44-76-30 is immune from civil liability for the application of an AED by a person or an entity described in item (A) or (B) of this section.

(D)   A prescribing physician is immune from civil liability for authorizing the purchase of an AED, unless the physician was grossly negligent in the authorization. /

Amend further, page 572, by inserting after line 31:

/ Section 44-76-50.     The provisions of this chapter do not apply to emergency medical services, a physician's office, or a health care facility as defined in Section 44-7-130(10). /

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Senator GIESE explained the amendment.

Senator GIESE moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator PEELER proposed the following Amendment No. 32 (BD006.DOC), which was not adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part II, Section 64, page 573, lines 32 through 38, page 574, lines 1 through 38, and page 575, lines 1 through 21, by striking the proviso in its entirety.

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Senator PEELER explained the amendment.

The question then was the adoption of the amendment.

Senator GREGORY requested a division vote.

Senator GREGORY, with unanimous consent, spoke on the amendment.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE, with unanimous consent, spoke on the amendment.

By a division vote of 9-23, the Senate refused to adopt the amendment.

Senators McCONNELL, PASSAILAIGUE, MOORE, WILSON, BAUER, O'DELL, PEELER, ALEXANDER and RANKIN desired to be recorded as voting in favor of the adoption of the amendment.

Senators PASSAILAIGUE and McCONNELL proposed the following Amendment No. 60A (3696R216.ELP), which was adopted (#31):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Part II, page 575, by striking line 21 in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:

/ G.   Section 50-21-10 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding a new appropriately numbered item to read:

"( )     `Dealer permit' means a permit issued by the department to a marine business extending the privilege of using a temporary marine dealer certificate of numbers on boats or motors for any legal purpose. A dealer permit is only valid for the calendar year and it must be prominently displayed to the public. Applications for renewals must be received by December fifteenth each year. `Demonstration numbers' means a temporary certificate of numbers issued to a permitted marine dealer or to a manufacturer for the purpose of demonstrating new and used boats or for any other legal purposes by a permitted marine dealer employee. The demonstration numbers must not be permanently attached to the vessel. The demonstration numbers must be attached to removal plates or placards for temporary display during any legal use. Demonstration numbers must be used only on boats, motors, or watercraft owned by the permitted dealer, or on customer boats, motors, or watercraft when servicing or testing. Permitted dealers or manufacturers are limited to nine sets of dealer numbers. Temporary certificate of numbers is a temporary registration assigned to a vessel to allow permitted marine dealers to operate a vessel for any legal use permitted."

H. Section 50-21-10 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding an appropriately numbered item to read:

"(___)   `Demonstration numbers' means a temporary certificate of numbers issued to a permitted marine dealer or manufacturer for the purpose of operating dealer owned watercraft, or used on watercraft that are placed with the dealer for repair. The demonstration numbers must not be permanently attached to the vessel. The dealer numbers must be on board the watercraft at all times during operating to identify that the dealer truly is licensed and operating legally. The dealer numbers may be used for any legal purpose. Each dealer will be allowed to purchase nine demonstration numbers."

I.   Chapter 21, Title 50 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 50-21-35.   (A)   The use of dealer demonstration numbers must be limited to the watercraft that are:

(1)   owned by the dealership;

(2)   assigned to the dealership, including customer watercraft in for service;

(3)   used for prospective buyer for test ride purposes;

(4)   watercraft using dealer demo numbers may be operated on South Carolina waters by persons employed by the dealership or

(5)   prospective watercraft buyers may also operate the watercraft with the dealer numbers while in test operation. If a customer operates a boat or watercraft during an extended demonstration, the dealer must execute a form designating the buyer to use such watercraft. Prospective buyers are limited to operating with dealer numbers for a period of seventy-two hours;

(6)   employees, owners, and agents who operate or may operate dealer owned watercraft using dealer demo numbers must be listed on the dealer application form. This list must include the name, address, and social security number. The names may be updated during the current licensing year as employees are added or leave and must be done within a thirty-day period.

(B)   Any dealer who is convicted of misusing dealer demonstration numbers must be punished as follows:

(1)   for a first offense, a one hundred dollar fine;

(2)   for a second offense, a two hundred dollar fine;

(3)   for a third offense, a three hundred dollar fine;
(4) for a fourth and subsequent offense, a three hundred dollar fine and the department may suspend the dealer's license." (5)

J.   This act takes effect July 1, 1999. /

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Senator PASSAILAIGUE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

On motion of Senator DRUMMOND, debate was interrupted by adjournment.

At 5:59 P.M., Senator DRUMMOND asked unanimous consent to make a motion to invite the House of Representatives to attend the Senate Chamber for the purpose of ratifying Acts at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, April 22, 1999.

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

On motion of Senator ALEXANDER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of the Honorable Charles Reid of Oconee, S.C.

At 6:02 P.M., on motion of Senator DRUMMOND, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 10:00 A.M.

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