Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 2:00 P.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT Pro Tempore.

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

Beloved, we join today with the House, the Senate and our Governor in the Joint Session. Hear a reading from Exodus, Chapter 13:21-22:

"The Lord went in front of them in a pillar of cloud by day, to lead them along the way, and in a pillar of fire by night, to give them light, so that they might travel by day and by night."
Let us pray.

Our Father, it is always an eerie feeling when the powers of our State get together in Joint Session.

We have a multitude of problems that will affect every man, woman and child for long periods of time!

Father, please, lead our leaders and our people as You led Moses and his people long, long ago! Thank You!
Amen.

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

The following were received and referred to the appropriate committees for consideration:

Document No. 2636
Agency: Department of Revenue
SUBJECT: Repeal Various Sales Tax, Property Tax, Administrative, Estate Tax, Video Game and Income Tax Regulations
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 15, 2002
Referred to Finance Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 15, 2002

Document No. 2650
Agency: Department of Revenue
SUBJECT: Alcoholic Beverage Commission Name and Cite Change
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 15, 2002
Referred to Finance Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 15, 2002

Document No. 2651
Agency: Department of Revenue
SUBJECT: Alcoholic Liquor Advertising
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 15, 2002
Referred to Finance Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 15, 2002

Document No. 2658
Agency: Department of Revenue
SUBJECT: Sales and Use Tax Regulations
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 15, 2002
Referred to Finance Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 15, 2002

Document No. 2662
Agency: Department of Revenue
SUBJECT: Administrative, License Tax, Income Tax and Property Tax Regulations
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 15, 2002
Referred to Finance Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 15, 2002

Document No. 2670
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
SUBJECT: Standards of Performance for Asbestos Projects
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 16, 2002
Referred to Medical Affairs Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 16, 2002

Document No. 2672
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
SUBJECT: Retail Food Establishment Inspection Fees
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 16, 2002
Referred to Medical Affairs Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 16, 2002

Document No. 2695
Agency: Department of Revenue
SUBJECT: The Repeal of Various Alcoholic Beverage Regulations
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 15, 2002
Referred to Finance Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 15, 2002

Document No. 2697
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
SUBJECT: Chapter 30. Apply for a Permit, Decision on a Permit
Chapter 61. Environmental Protection Fees
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 16, 2002
Referred to Fish, Game and Forestry Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 16, 2002

Document No. 2698
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
SUBJECT: Standards for Stormwater Management and Sediment Reduction
Received by Lieutenant Governor January 16, 2002
Referred to Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 16, 2002

Senator BRANTON introduced Dr. Daniel W. Brake of Charleston, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

S. 871 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin, Fair, Hawkins, Thomas and Peeler: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE ALL REVENUES CREDITED TO THE EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT FROM JANUARY 1, 2002, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2002, TO THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO PURCHASE NEW SCHOOL BUSES AND TO APPROPRIATE FOR THIS SAME PURPOSE SEVENTY-FIVE PERCENT OF ALL REVENUES CREDITED TO THE EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT FROM JULY 1, 2002, THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2002, WHICH ARE DERIVED FROM UNCLAIMED LOTTERY PRIZE MONEY.

On motion of Senator KUHN, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator KUHN was added as a co-sponsor of S. 871.

H. 4446 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, W.D. Smith, J. Brown, Cato, Carnell, Fleming, Harrell, Harrison, Kelley, Meacham-Richardson, Sharpe, Townsend and Vaughn: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION INVITING HIS EXCELLENCY, JAMES H. HODGES, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION AT 7:00 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2002, IN THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

Senator COURSON asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Invitations.

There was no objection.

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

There was no objection.

Senator COURSON asked unanimous consent to adopt the Concurrent Resolution and return the Resolution to the House.

There was no objection.

S. 876 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Moore and Ritchie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX 12:00 NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2002, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JULY 31, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 7, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 7, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2003; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 11, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 12, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 13, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2004; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE SIXTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 5, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2004; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 5, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE DIVISION, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2002.

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

There was no objection.

The Resolution was recalled and ordered placed on the Calendar.

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

Senator RANKIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Education.

There was no objection.

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

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

On motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, H. 3925 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, January 17, 2002.

At 2:15 P.M., the PRESIDENT assumed the Chair.

The following were introduced:

S. 881 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-112-50, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MEMBERS OF THE ARMED SERVICES OF THE UNITED STATES STATIONED IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND THEIR DEPENDENTS BEING ELIGIBLE FOR IN-STATE TUITION RATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MEMBERS OF THE COAST GUARD AND THEIR DEPENDENTS STATIONED IN THIS STATE ARE ALSO ELIGIBLE FOR IN-STATE TUITION RATES.
l:\council\bills\gjk\20865sd02.doc

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

S. 882 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-26-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO VARIOUS POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, INCLUDING THE ADMINISTRATION OF TEACHER LOAN PROGRAMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY CERTIFIED TEACHER IN THIS STATE WHO TEACHES IN A CRITICAL NEED AREA AND WHO INCURRED A STAFFORD LOAN WHILE AN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT BUT DID NOT RECEIVE A LOAN UNDER THESE PROGRAMS MAY APPLY TO THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION FOR A CONVERSION OF THE STAFFORD LOAN TO A LOAN UNDER THESE PROGRAMS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THESE CONVERSIONS SHALL BE ACCOMPLISHED.
l:\council\bills\gjk\20858sd02.doc

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

S. 883 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-935 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IN DETERMINING THE ABSOLUTE AND IMPROVEMENT RATINGS FOR SCHOOLS UNDER THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, THE EDUCATION OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE SHALL CONSIDER NOT ONLY TEST SCORES BUT ALSO OTHER FACTORS, INCLUDING CLASS SIZES, PERCENTAGES OF STUDENTS ON FREE OR REDUCED LUNCHES, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND OUTSIDE ACCREDITATIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT IN DETERMINING THE IMPROVEMENTS RATINGS FOR SCHOOLS, THE EDUCATION OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE SHALL CONSIDER THE IMPROVEMENT OF A SCHOOL OVER A PERIOD OF AT LEAST THREE YEARS AND NOT JUST FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR.
l:\council\bills\gjk\20857sd02.doc

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

S. 884 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-275 SO AS TO REQUIRE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE TO VERIFY WHETHER EACH STUDENT IS A UNITED STATES CITIZEN OR IN POSSESSION OF A VALID VISA BEFORE BEING ENROLLED.
l:\council\bills\gjk\20850sd02.doc

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

S. 885 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-104-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING WITH SCHOOL YEAR 2002-2003 THE AMOUNT OF THE PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIP IN ANY YEAR MUST BE AT LEAST FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS MORE THAN THE AMOUNT OF A LIFE SCHOLARSHIP FOR THAT YEAR.
l:\council\bills\gjk\20855sd02.doc

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

S. 886 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman, McGill, Land, Glover, Saleeby and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE TARGETED JOBS TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE DESIGNATION OF "DISTRESSED COUNTY", PROVIDE THE CRITERIA FOR THE DESIGNATION AND ALLOW A TAX CREDIT EQUAL TO EIGHT THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR EACH NEW FULL-TIME JOB CREATED IN A DISTRESSED COUNTY, TO LIMIT THE "DISTRESSED" DESIGNATION TO NO MORE THAN SIX COUNTIES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR GROUPS OF AT LEAST SIX, BUT NOT MORE THAN TEN, CONTIGUOUS COUNTIES TO JOIN IN A REGIONAL ALLIANCE AREA TO PROMOTE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND TO ALLOW A COUNTY IN THE ALLIANCE TO BE DESIGNATED AS A "LEAST DEVELOPED COUNTY" IF CERTAIN AVERAGE UNEMPLOYMENT CRITERIA ARE MET IN THE COUNTIES COMPRISING THE ALLIANCE AREA COUNTIES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-10-85, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUND, SO AS TO CONFORM THE USE OF FUND REVENUES TO THE "DISTRESSED COUNTY" DESIGNATION AND TO INCREASE FROM FIVE TO TEN MILLION DOLLARS THE THRESHOLD ABOVE WHICH TWENTY-FIVE PERCENT OF FUND REVENUES MUST BE AVAILABLE FOR GRANTS IN COUNTIES ABOVE THE BOTTOM TWO DESIGNATIONS.
l:\council\bills\bbm\10634htc02.doc

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

S. 887 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Ryberg, Gregory, Hutto, Matthews, Short and Moore: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 4-10-320, 4-10-330, AND 4-10-340, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE COMMISSION CREATED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF A COUNTY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CAPITAL PROJECTS SALES TAX ACT, THE REFERENDUM REQUIRED BEFORE THE TAX MAY BE IMPOSED, AND THE DATE THE TAX IS IMPOSED AND TERMINATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMISSION SHALL RECOMMEND THE WORDING OF THE REFERENDUM QUESTION TO THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE COUNTY WHICH MAY ALTER THIS RECOMMENDED WORDING ONLY BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE AND PROVIDE WHAT CONSTITUTES A TWO-THIRDS VOTE, TO PROVIDE FOR A REVISED DATE FOR THE REFERENDUM IN CASES OF A SUBSEQUENT IMPOSITION OF THE TAX AND DELETE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUATION OF THE TAX WITHOUT INTERRUPTION IN A SUBSEQUENT IMPOSITION, AND TO REVISE THE FACTORS FOR DETERMINING THE TERMINATION OF THE TAX.
l:\council\bills\bbm\10633htc02.doc

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

S. 888 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-885 SO AS TO PROHIBIT VACATING A CHILD SUPPORT ORDER UPON THE DEATH OF THE CUSTODIAL PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN WITHOUT FIRST CONDUCTING A HEARING.
l:\council\bills\nbd\11072ac02.doc

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

S. 889 (Word version) -- Senator Fair: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-1-465 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DISPLAY OF THE WORDS OF THE TEN COMMANDMENTS IN A PUBLIC SCHOOL CLASSROOM AT THE DISCRETION OF THE TEACHER IN CHARGE OF THE CLASSROOM AND TO PROHIBIT PUBLIC SCHOOL POLICIES OR CODES THAT PROHIBIT THE WORDS OF THE TEN COMMANDMENTS ON THE CLOTHING, BOOK COVERS, AND OTHER PERSONAL PROPERTY OF STUDENTS THAT OTHERWISE CONFORM TO SUCH POLICIES OR CODES.
l:\council\bills\bbm\10611htc02.doc

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

S. 890 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-65 SO AS TO ENACT THE "HOSPITAL SECURITY AND SAFETY ACT" TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS TO CONDUCT SECURITY AND SAFETY ASSESSMENTS AND TO DEVELOP A SECURITY PLAN TO PROTECT PERSONNEL, PATIENTS, AND VISITORS FROM AGGRESSIVE AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR, TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS TO REPORT ACTS OF ASSAULT AND BATTERY AGAINST HOSPITAL PERSONNEL, PATIENTS, AND VISITORS TO LAW ENFORCEMENT WITHIN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS, AND TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS TO PROVIDE SECURITY EDUCATION AND TRAINING TO EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES.
l:\council\bills\nbd\11066ac02.doc

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 891 (Word version) -- Senator Ford: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-127-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING JULY 1, 2003, THERE IS ESTABLISHED AT SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY A LAW SCHOOL AND AN UNDERGRADUATE ENGINEERING SCHOOL AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THE LAW SCHOOL AND ENGINEERING SCHOOL SHALL BE ESTABLISHED AND FUNDED INCLUDING A PROVISION FOR FACULTY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA LAW SCHOOL IN COLUMBIA AND THE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN COLUMBIA TO ALSO TEACH AT THESE RESPECTIVE SCHOOLS AT SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY.
l:\council\bills\gjk\20875sd02.doc

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

S. 892 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Peeler, Gregory and Short: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-125-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WINTHROP UNIVERSITY AND THE MANNER IN WHICH THESE TRUSTEES ARE ELECTED OR APPOINTED SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THESE ELECTED TRUSTEES SHALL BE SELECTED AND TO GIVE EACH SEAT ON THE BOARD A NUMERICAL DESIGNATION.
l:\council\bills\skb\18137sd02.doc

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

S. 893 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-430, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE KILLING OF BEAR, SO AS TO DELETE THE EXISTING PROVISIONS AND PROVIDE FOR OPEN SEASON IN GAME ZONE ONE FOR STILL GUN AND PARTY DOG HUNTS AND TO PROVIDE THAT IN ALL OTHER ZONES THERE ARE NO OPEN SEASONS; TO REQUIRE THAT BEAR TAKEN BE REPORTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES' CLEMSON OFFICE; TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO TAKE A BEAR EXCEPT DURING OPEN SEASON; TO OTHERWISE RESTRICT THE TAKING, METHOD OF HUNTING, OR POSSESSION OF CERTAIN BEAR AND BEAR PARTS; AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.
l:\council\bills\swb\5050djc02.doc

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 894 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 11, TITLE 50, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF GAME, BY ADDING SECTION 50-11-544 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO HUNTS WILD TURKEYS IS REQUIRED TO POSSESS A SET OF WILD TURKEY TRANSPORTATION TAGS ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-500, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO WILD TURKEY, SO AS TO DELETE CERTAIN OBSOLETE PROVISIONS AND PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO TAKE OR ATTEMPT TO TAKE A WILD TURKEY WITH A RIFLE, PISTOL, BUCKSHOT, OR SHOTGUN SLUG; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-530, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE DEPARTMENT TO REGULATE WILD TURKEY HUNTING, SO AS TO DELETE THE BAG LIMIT FOR TURKEYS IN GAME ZONES 6 AND 11; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-540, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATING RULES APPLICABLE TO WILD TURKEY HUNTING, SO AS TO DELETE CERTAIN PROVISIONS RELATING TO FORFEITURE, TO PROVIDE FOR RESTITUTION TO THE DEPARTMENT FOR WILD TURKEYS TAKEN UNLAWFULLY AND FOR FORFEITURE OF HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES FOR PERSONS CONVICTED OF TAKING A WILD TURKEY ILLEGALLY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-560, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO OPEN SEASON FOR MALE WILD TURKEY IN GAME ZONES 6 AND 11 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MALE WILD TURKEY MAY BE HUNTED FROM MARCH FIFTEENTH TO MAY FIRST IN GAME ZONES 6 AND 11, AND IN ALL OTHER GAME ZONES AS PROMULGATED AND PUBLISHED BY THE DEPARTMENT.
l:\council\bills\swb\5054djc02.doc

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 895 (Word version) -- Senators Moore, McConnell, Leatherman, Setzler, Martin, Courson, Rankin, Alexander and Ritchie: A BILL TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RESEARCH CENTERS OF ECONOMIC EXCELLENCE ACT", INCLUDING PROVISIONS TO AMEND TITLE 2, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BY ADDING CHAPTER 75 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A CENTER OF EXCELLENCE MATCHING ENDOWMENT FUND TO BE FUNDED FROM APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING MATCHING FUNDS TO THE THREE SENIOR RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES OF THIS STATE IN ORDER TO CREATE ENDOWMENT PROFESSORSHIPS.
l:\council\bills\gjk\20883sd02.doc

Senator MOORE spoke on the Bill.

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

H. 3655 (Word version) -- Reps. R. Brown, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Bingham, Breeland, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Dantzler, Davenport, Easterday, Emory, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Govan, Harrell, Haskins, J. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kennedy, Kirsh, Knotts, Leach, Lee, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Riser, Rivers, Rodgers, Scarborough, Scott, Simrill, Sinclair, G.M. Smith, W.D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Townsend, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder and Witherspoon: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF STATE HIGHWAY 162 AND TOWLES ROAD AND SALTER'S HILL ROAD IN CHARLESTON COUNTY AS THE "HENRIETTA GRANT INTERSECTION" IN HONOR OF THE LATE MRS. HENRIETTA GRANT OF HOLLYWOOD, SOUTH CAROLINA.

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

H. 4488 (Word version) -- Reps. Knotts, Bingham, Frye, Huggins, Koon, Riser and Stuart: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO MR. WILSON O. SHEALY OF SWANSEA, SOUTH CAROLINA, FOR HIS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE AS A COMMISSIONER ON THE LEXINGTON COUNTY REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS COMMISSION AND TO WISH HIM MANY YEARS OF HEALTH AND HAPPINESS.

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

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

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 4490 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J.H. Neal, J.M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Robinson, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D.C. Smith, F.N. Smith, G.M. Smith, J.E. Smith, J.R. Smith, W.D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE SINCERE CONGRATULATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO THE 2001 CLEMSON UNIVERSITY "TIGERS" FOOTBALL TEAM AND HEAD COACH TOMMY BOWDEN ON THEIR OUTSTANDING WINNING SEASON AND TO APPLAUD THE CLEMSON "TIGERS" ON THEIR TREMENDOUS VICTORY IN THE 2001 HUMANITARIAN BOWL.

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

H. 4491 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, J. Young and Weeks: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SORROW REGARDING THE DEATH OF EDWIN C. CUTTINO OF SUMTER COUNTY, AND EXTENDING SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

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

H. 4504 (Word version) -- Reps. J. Brown, Allen, Breeland, R. Brown, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Gourdine, Govan, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hosey, Howard, Kennedy, Lee, Lloyd, Mack, Moody-Lawrence, J.H. Neal, Parks, Rutherford, Scott, F.N. Smith, Weeks and Whipper: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING THE HONORABLE RALPH ANDERSON, SENATOR, DISTRICT NUMBER 7, GREENVILLE COUNTY, ON BEING CHOSEN AS ONE OF THE TOP TWENTY-FIVE LEADERS OF GREENVILLE BY THE GREENVILLE NEWS, AND SALUTING SENATOR ANDERSON FOR HIS OUTSTANDING, DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE.

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

H. 4505 (Word version) -- Reps. Allison, Davenport, Lee, Littlejohn, Sinclair, W.D. Smith, Talley, Vaughn, Walker and Wilder: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND THANKING F. HUGH ATKINS OF SPARTANBURG COUNTY FOR HIS DEDICATED AND DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AS SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONER FOR THE FOURTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT.

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

H. 4506 (Word version) -- Reps. Townsend, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Freeman, Frye, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Meacham-Richardson, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J.H. Neal, J.M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Rivers, Robinson, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D.C. Smith, F.N. Smith, G.M. Smith, J.E. Smith, J.R. Smith, W.D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, Whipper, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPON THE DEATH OF FORMER LEGISLATOR, LEWIS PHILLIPS OF GREER, ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2001, AND EXTEND DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

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

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

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

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

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

Senator RITCHIE spoke on the Bill.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

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

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator RYBERG from the Committee on Transportation submitted a favorable report on:

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

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MESCHER from the General Committee polled out H. 4468 favorable:

H. 4468 (Word version) -- Reps. Cobb-Hunter, Govan, Ott, Sharpe and Stuart: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN NOW SERVING AND WHO FORMERLY SERVED AS MEMBERS OF ORANGEBURG UNITS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD FOR THEIR COMMITMENT, SACRIFICE, AND OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THEIR COMMUNITY, THE STATE, AND THE NATION AND TO DECLARE SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 2002, AS "ORANGEBURG NATIONAL GUARD UNIT APPRECIATION DAY".

Mescher                   Drummond                  Holland
Land                      Thomas                    Patterson
McGill                    O'Dell                    Hayes
Elliott                   Martin                    Ryberg
Alexander                 Richardson                Hawkins
Kuhn

H. 4468 (Word version) -- Reps. Cobb-Hunter, Govan, Ott, Sharpe and Stuart: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN NOW SERVING AND WHO FORMERLY SERVED AS MEMBERS OF ORANGEBURG UNITS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD FOR THEIR COMMITMENT, SACRIFICE, AND OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THEIR COMMUNITY, THE STATE, AND THE NATION AND TO DECLARE SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 2002, AS "ORANGEBURG NATIONAL GUARD UNIT APPRECIATION DAY".

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

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

An invitation from the CONSULTING ENGINEERS OF SC and the SC SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS to attend a reception at the Faculty Club at USC on Tuesday, January 22, 2002, from 6:00 until 8:00.P.M.

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

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

An invitation from the SC ASSOCIATION OF NURSE ANESTHETISTS to attend a breakfast in Room 221 Blatt Bldg. on Wednesday, January 23, 2002, from 8:00 until 9:30 A.M.

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

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

An invitation from the NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF SC to attend a luncheon in Room 208 Blatt Bldg. on Wednesday, January 23, 2002, from 12:00 until 2:00 P.M.

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

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

An invitation from the CLARION TOWN HOUSE to attend an oyster roast and frogmore stew at the Clarion Town House Hotel on Wednesday, January 23, 2002, from 6:00 until 10:00 P.M.

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

Columbia, S.C., January 15, 2002

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it refuses to concur in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:
H. 3477 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughn, Tripp, Hamilton, Easterday, Leach, Haskins, Wilkins and Cato: A BILL TO AUTHORIZE THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF GREENVILLE COUNTY TO CHARGE AND COLLECT MATRICULATION AND INCIDENTAL FEES FROM PUPILS AND TO PROVIDE FOR WAIVER OF THESE FEES UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

H. 3477 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughn, Tripp, Hamilton, Easterday, Leach, Haskins, Wilkins and Cato: A BILL TO AUTHORIZE THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF GREENVILLE COUNTY TO CHARGE AND COLLECT MATRICULATION AND INCIDENTAL FEES FROM PUPILS AND TO PROVIDE FOR WAIVER OF THESE FEES UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

On motion of Senator FAIR, the Senate insisted upon its amendments to H. 3477 and asked for a Committee of Conference.

Whereupon, Senators J. VERNE SMITH, FAIR and ANDERSON were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

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

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 866 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND AND CONGRATULATE BILL MAHAN OF MONCKS CORNER ON BEING NAMED THE 2001 SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AND TO EXPRESS APPRECIATION FOR HIS CONTINUED LOYALTY AND SERVICE TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 878 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto and Matthews: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE ORANGEBURG UNITS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD AND TO HONOR THEIR SELFLESS SERVICE TO THEIR COMMUNITY, THE STATE, AND THE NATION BY DECLARING SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 2002, AS "ORANGEBURG NATIONAL GUARD UNIT APPRECIATION DAY".

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 880 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND THANKING THE SOUTH CAROLINA BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION AND THE SOUTH CAROLINA PRESS ASSOCIATION FOR DONATING THEIR ADVERTISING TIME DURING "TRAVEL AND TOURISM MONTH" - NOVEMBER 2001.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

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

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

By prior motion of Senator LAND

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

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

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Joint Resolution, the question being the second reading of the Joint Resolution.

Senators MOORE and SETZLER proposed the following amendment (4471-TLM), which was adopted:

Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by deleting the resolution in its entirety and inserting the following:

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

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

SECTION 1. School days missed on January 3 and 4, 2002, by the students of a school in the Edgefield County School District and the Aiken County School District when the school was closed due to snow, ice, or inclement weather conditions are exempted from the make-up requirement of the defined minimum plan that full school days missed due to extreme weather or other circumstances be made up.

SECTION 2. This joint resolution takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MOORE spoke on the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

On motion of Senator MOORE, with unanimous consent, H. 4471 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, January 17, 2002.

S. 629 (Word version) -- Fish, Game and Forestry Committee: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1910, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHERIES STAMPS AND CHARTER FISHING LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A TEMPORARY SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1920, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO STAMPS AND LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL RESIDENTIAL AND NONRESIDENTIAL SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENSES, FOR TEMPORARY SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENSES IN LIEU OF ANNUAL LICENSES, FOR PIER LICENSES AND FOR CHARTER FISHING VESSEL LICENSES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1930, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO RECOGNITION OF STAMPS ISSUED BY ANOTHER STATE, SO AS TO DELETE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE AND PROVIDE FOR RECOGNITION OF SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENSES ISSUED BY CERTAIN COASTAL STATES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1935, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO COMMEMORATIVE STAMPS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STAMP DOES NOT AUTHORIZE RECREATIONAL FISHING; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1940, RELATING TO STAMPS, LICENSES, PRINTS, AND RELATED ARTICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MAY CREATE AND DESIGN THE STAMP AND LICENSE AND DEVELOP SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHERIES PRINTS AND RELATED ARTICLES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1950, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHERIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF ADDITIONAL MEMBERS TO THE COMMITTEE FROM DORCHESTER AND BERKELEY COUNTIES.

On motion of Senator GREGORY, with unanimous consent, the Bill was committed to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

H. 4060 (Word version) -- Reps. Limehouse, Harrell, Ott, Owens, Scarborough and D.C. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1705, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CATCH LIMITS FOR RED DRUM AND CERTAIN OTHER FISH, SO AS TO CHANGE THE CATCH LIMIT FOR RED DRUM FROM FIVE FISH IN POSSESSION PER DAY TO ONE FISH IN POSSESSION PER DAY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 50-5-1710, RELATING TO SIZE LIMITS FOR RED DRUM AND CERTAIN OTHER FISH, SO AS TO CHANGE THE MINIMUM SIZE LIMIT FOR RED DRUM FROM FOURTEEN INCHES TO SEVENTEEN INCHES AND PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO TAKE RED DRUM OF LESS THAN SEVENTEEN INCHES IN TOTAL LENGTH, OR MORE THAN TWENTY-SEVEN INCHES IN TOTAL LENGTH.

On motion of Senator GREGORY, with unanimous consent, the Bill was committed to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

The PRESIDENT appointed Senators COURSON, McGILL, RICHARDSON, PINCKNEY and VERDIN to escort the Honorable James H. Hodges, Governor of South Carolina, and members of his party to the Hall of the House of Representatives for the Joint Assembly.

Senator McCONNELL asked unanimous consent to make a motion that, upon the completion of the Uncontested Statewide Calendar, the Senate would stand in recess until 6:45 P.M., at which time the Senate would reconvene for the purpose of attending the Joint Assembly; and, further, that upon completion of the Joint Assembly, the Senate would stand adjourned to meet at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, January 17, 2002.

There was no objection and the motion was adopted.

At 2:40 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate receded from business until 6:45 P.M.

The Senate reassembled at 6:45 P.M. and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

At 6:55 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate receded from business for the purpose of attending the Joint Assembly.

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 H. 4446, a Concurrent Resolution adopted by both Houses.

The Honorable James H. Hodges and members of his party were escorted to the rostrum by Senators COURSON, McGILL, RICHARDSON, PINCKNEY and VERDIN and Representatives Neilson, McCraw, Limehouse, Leach and Cobb-Hunter.

The PRESIDENT of the Senate introduced the Honorable James H. Hodges, Governor of the State of South Carolina.

The Governor addressed the Joint Assembly as follows:

Ladies and gentlemen, Members of the General Assembly, honored guests, please join me in honoring our nation with the words of the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America ... and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Thank you.

Four months ago, our President stood before Congress to address the nation in the wake of the tragic events of September 11. Many Americans asked the simple questions: What is expected of me in this time of crisis? What can I do to help? How can I make a difference in America?

President Bush said we must first continue fully living our lives. Then, we all have a job to do - both at home and overseas.

My friends, we have heeded the President's words. Across South Carolina, people have rallied around our country and touched those in need -

South Carolinians like James "Smitty" Smith of Lake City. On September 11, Smitty was working at the Pentagon when the attack on America occurred. He put his own life in danger to save the lives of others. Yet, Master Sergeant Smith describes himself simply as one of many who reached out to help. Master Sergeant, please stand and be recognized.

Who can forget the students of White Knoll Middle School in Lexington? They heard the story of a New York fire station sending a fire engine to Columbia after the Civil War. The students decided a 135-year-old debt should be paid off. Over the next few months, these students led a fund drive and raised over $500,000. On Thanksgiving Day, they delivered a check for a new fire truck to Mayor Rudy Giuliani. I ask the student leaders of White Knoll to stand and be recognized.

Tonight, more than 200 South Carolina National Guardsmen are on duty overseas as part of Operation Enduring Freedom - our war on terrorism. They include the Swamp Foxes, F-16 fighter pilots and their support teams from McEntire. I ask General Spears, our National Guard Adjutant General, to please stand and accept our thanks for the job South Carolina's service men and women are doing to protect our country.

These are the faces of September 11 - of tragedy and tears... of courage and hope... of character and optimism. These great South Carolinians remind us what matters in life - God's gift of a free country, caring communities, and loving families.

Members of the General Assembly, as we move forward in this important legislative session, let us do so with that same sense of purpose they have shown. Let us avoid the poison of partisanship. Let us agree respect will be our watchword... cooperation our mission.

And look what we have accomplished by working together.

Old controversies have been resolved. The nation's nuclear waste is headed elsewhere. Our innovative SILVERxCard program is helping nearly 40,000 vulnerable seniors afford prescription drugs. Palmetto Pride has reduced trash on our roads.

We've broken records in job creation. We've kept our taxes among the lowest in the country. We've even added a new tax-free shopping holiday every August to help our families.

We've focused like a laser beam on improving public education. Now our efforts are paying off -

First in the nation in SAT improvement, fourth in improving teacher quality, and third in the nation in the number of nationally certified teachers - an increase of more than 7,500 percent. And last week, Education Week announced that South Carolina is one of the leading states in educational improvement.

Our new education lottery is a great success! It has sold almost twenty million dollars in tickets... in the first week alone. This new revenue will open the door of educational opportunity for scores of South Carolinians of all ages.

Ladies and gentlemen, we can take pride in these accomplishments. And if these were ordinary times, we could spend this evening reflecting on their impact. But we dare not, because we are faced with two new factors in our lives.

Our economy is suffering and America is at war.

For the first time since World War Two, we must plan for homeland security. At the request of the White House, I have ordered the National Guard to protect our state's airports. Until the federal government completes improvements to airport security, these brave men and women will provide an extra measure of safety for passengers.
We have created a new Office of Homeland Security to better protect our State.

Our Director of Homeland Security, General Steve Siegfried, and our team hit the ground running after September 11th. In just two short months, they successfully responded to the threat of anthrax. Safety procedures at our ports and nuclear power plants were reviewed and improved. Our National Guard was selected for special civilian disaster training. And we signed a mutual aid agreement with our neighbors in North Carolina.

But the terrorist attack opened our eyes to a whole new set of challenges.

General Siegfried has worked with me to prepare sweeping anti-terrorism legislation. This legislation will make the Palmetto State a national leader. It includes antiterrorism training for our police, firefighters and healthcare workers. We must also improve information sharing between law enforcement agencies at all levels. And we must upgrade the capabilities of our public health agencies to deal with the threat of bio-terrorism.

And I am asking National Homeland Security Director, Tom Ridge, to partner with us and make South Carolina the model for homeland security.

While we are talking about making our State safer, I want to address the issue of plutonium shipments to the Savannah River Site in Aiken. The people of South Carolina have a long and proud history of supporting the defense of our country.

Several years ago, we agreed to convert weapons-grade plutonium at SRS. We asked one thing of the federal government - find another location to dispose of it. Recently, the federal government broke its commitment and began planning shipments of plutonium to South Carolina without a disposition plan. This is unacceptable.

Plutonium is one of the most hazardous materials known to man. Even a very small amount can be lethal. As a nuclear explosive, a few pounds of weapons-grade plutonium, fashioned into a bomb, could decimate several square miles of our State and make a whole county uninhabitable for years.

Dumping this weapons-grade plutonium in our State turns us into a terrorist target. We cannot allow the federal government to paint a bullseye on South Carolina.

But as we work to keep our citizens safe, we cannot afford to lose sight of our other big priorities - those kitchen table concerns of everyday families.

Before the terrorist attacks, our national economy was slowing. But September 11 made things worse. The impact was felt across the nation and here in South Carolina as well.

The good news is that our economy shows signs of improvement. But we will not simply stand by and wait for a recovery. We will respond to our state's needs with vigor.

The first positive step is to pass a responsible budget. Last year, we responded to the state's budget challenges by downsizing state government by nearly $200 million while protecting our core priorities of education and health care.

Our State still faces a budget crunch. But we must see this as a challenge - not an obstacle. We can manage this budget or let it manage us. The decision is ours. I say let's keep our State moving forward. Let's think outside the box. Let's use every ounce of creativity to protect our progress... in education, health care, and public safety.

To balance our state budget, let's agree on another important point: no tax increases. Our fellow citizens are struggling to make ends meet and simply cannot afford to pay more. Like every family experiencing a financial crunch, we'll just have to tighten our belts.

Fortunately, there's an easy way to start. Every day the legislature operates costs the taxpayers $60,000. If Florida can do the people's business in 60 days, and Texas can do it with a legislature that meets only once every other year, then South Carolina can do the people's business in two months.

For years, Speaker Wilkins has introduced a bill to shorten the legislative session. I am proud tonight to endorse the Speaker's bill.

However, even before the Speaker's bill passes, it is within the legislature's power to wrap up the people's business in 60 days. Speaker Wilkins... Lt. Governor Peeler... let's agree tonight to put some bipartisan muscle to work, to finish the people's business in two months, and to save taxpayers millions of dollars.

Our efforts to help those affected by the economy do not stop with the budget alone.

For the past decade, South Carolina has been blessed with a robust economy. Even as our economy slowed, our Department of Commerce has a strong record... more than $11 billion in capital investment and 50,000 new jobs during the last two years.

We have a great business climate. And I have every confidence that our State will continue attracting new jobs and investments as our economy improves.

But one industry in our State needs special attention. Textile workers have suffered job losses due to unfair and illegal foreign competition, and countries are routinely ignoring our trade agreements.

We cannot control the national economy, but we can fight to protect our jobs. Our nation must recognize the importance of a strong manufacturing base to our American way of life.

More than 30,000 South Carolina textile jobs have been lost in the past decade. We'll lose more if immediate action is not taken. My friends, this is not just a South Carolina crisis. It's a national crisis. A great nation cannot fight a war if its clothing, guns, and planes are made someplace else.

Let's stand up for textile workers by sending a message to our national leaders. We must enforce our international trade agreements and stop sending our textile jobs overseas.

And while we are sending messages to Washington, let's send one on behalf of all South Carolinians who have lost their jobs. Our state's one-stop employment and training system is helping unemployed workers find new jobs. But they need help making ends meet. Join me in urging our national leaders to help families keep their health insurance until they find new jobs. And join me in requesting an additional fourteen weeks of unemployment compensation for those trying to find work.

Of course, the best response to job loss is job creation. It's not enough to protect old jobs and respond to layoffs. We must set ambitious goals for new jobs. In that regard, I am challenging Team South Carolina to create at least 25,000 new jobs and additional private investment of at least $6 billion this year.

But our vision for the economic future of our State must also include a role for the New Economy. For the past six months, my Technology Transition Team has been hard at work identifying ways for South Carolina to become a leader in high tech jobs. Several key elements of this plan require immediate attention.

First, we must recognize the role our universities play in fostering new ideas that create jobs. Look no further than Atlanta, Georgia; the Research Triangle in North Carolina; and Austin, Texas to see the impact a research university has on economic development. Our universities can also be engines of economic opportunity, but only if we dramatically increase research funding to support promising new ideas. I am calling on the legislature to create a new fund to support research at our universities with $40 million in lottery proceeds.

This research fund will support new centers of excellence, like an automotive center at Clemson. At this center, the latest automotive technologies and designs can be tested and perfected by the world's top engineers and students. South Carolina will become a magnet for exciting new ideas in the automotive field. And we will become a world leader in new automotive engineering jobs as well.

I also urge you to enact legislation that authorizes certified capital companies. This will create a venture capital pool of $100 million for new technology companies. This will put South Carolina in the center of the New Economy.

These measures will help South Carolina during this economic slowdown, but the greatest insurance against future slumps is to have the best-educated workforce in America. To do that, we must demand excellence from our public schools.

Here's what we will do next to create the world-class schools South Carolina deserves.

Let us start with the school buildings themselves. We are already making record strides in replacing portable classrooms with bricks and mortar. Our historic billion-dollar investment has moved us toward our goal - without raising taxes. But there are still more than 3,000 portable classrooms in the State.

It is simply unacceptable to send our children to school in leaky, portable classrooms. We need our own Marshall Plan for school buildings.

Tonight, I am announcing a school building initiative called Palmetto Builds! Palmetto Builds! has a simple goal - move our kids out of portable classrooms into modern classrooms without raising taxes. Palmetto Builds! will create a School Infrastructure Bank, similar to our Highway Infrastructure Bank, that will allow districts to save on financing, purchasing and interest costs. Ultimately, the bank can use existing debt service and state revenues to give all of our children - in rich and poor districts - classrooms the entire country will envy.

Even while we improve the buildings, we must help the teachers who work there.

We've done a good job of meeting the Southeastern average salary for teachers. But if we want to continue attracting the best and brightest professionals, South Carolina must pay our teachers a salary of national caliber.

Tonight, I ask you to make a commitment to raise our teachers' pay to the national average within the next five years.

We must also support excellence among South Carolina's educators by encouraging even more teachers to become nationally certified.

When I took office, we had seventeen of these outstanding professionals in our classrooms. I set the goal of 500 nationally certified teachers by 2002. Well, we passed that goal early, and there are now 1,300 nationally certified teachers in South Carolina.
Some critics say we have too many nationally certified teachers. They say we should discontinue incentives for teachers to become nationally certified. I disagree. It's time to set the bar higher, not lower. There is no reason we cannot have 5,000 nationally certified teachers in our State by the year 2005. That's 5,000 by "05."

We must also fulfill our commitment to public school accountability. Parents recently received the first school report cards. They provided parents with a snapshot of how their children's schools measure up. This honest assessment was the first step. Now the legislature must do its part and provide under-performing schools with the money they need to make improvements. My budget provides $41 million for this task.

Next, let's make sure that reading truly becomes fundamental, because I believe every child in the State deserves access to quality books. And I believe that every elementary school in the State deserves a quality library.

To meet both these goals, we are kicking off the Cool Books initiative. Cool Books has a simple goal: put a read-aloud library in every elementary classroom in the State.

Cool Books is a partnership between our states' communities, businesses and schools. To participate in Cool Books, individuals or groups can purchase coolers of books for a particular classroom or school. By tapping the great South Carolina community spirit, Cool Books will help every child become a book lover.

Last week, President Bush announced his "Leave No Child Behind" education plan. Like South Carolina, the plan has heavy doses of accountability, an emphasis on pre-school, initiatives to close the achievement gaps between rich and poor, and a special emphasis on reading.

To make progress in education, the president has put money on the table. I intend to use this money to enhance the initiatives we've already begun... to expand our successful Governor's Institute of Reading. This will encourage our youngest readers to continue as they progress through school.

We also know students learn better when there are strong partnerships between schools and communities. In Greenwood, for example, the HOSTS mentoring program partners adult volunteers with struggling readers. I want to use the president's education money to take this mentoring project statewide.

In addition, our new teachers need more help. Asking new teachers to sink or swim simply doesn't work. We lose one-third of our teachers in the first five years. Let's pair new teachers with veteran educators to insure our brightest new teachers don't get discouraged and leave our classrooms.

Now, let's make sure our children can safely travel to school. Our school bus fleet is in bad shape. Let's dedicate a portion of our bond revenues to replacing our state's old buses. For an investment of $40 million, we can replace 750 buses and buy our parents some much-needed piece of mind.

Let's talk for a minute about the students who ride on those buses... the students who fill the classrooms of our state's schools.

Character education is already an important part of many South Carolina classrooms. Across the State, character education initiatives promote the fundamental South Carolina values of service, leadership, responsibility and discipline.

We began tonight by reciting the pledge of allegiance. Our state's students begin each morning the same way. In this time of national trial, we must all recognize that patriotism is the cornerstone of the American character. Let's also give our students a lesson in the character and history of American heroism.

On December 7, 1941, this nation was a sleeping giant. Then came war, unbidden and unexpected. President Roosevelt rallied the nation, and America arose to meet the challenge. The Second World War saw our parents and grandparents earn the title of "greatest generation," by meeting the threat with honor and courage.

Even as the "greatest generation" passes, their lessons must be taught and their values must endure. Therefore, I want every high school student to receive a copy of Tom Brokaw's book, The Greatest Generation. I want this book to become part of our school's American history curriculum.

Reading about the "greatest generation" is not enough. I want our state's students to hear these stories directly from the source. Tonight, I am announcing that we will select a school district for an exciting pilot initiative that will bring World War II veterans into the classroom. These living heroes will give South Carolina students the chance to see courage exemplified and character personified.

I am pleased to report that we have our first volunteer... our very own World War II hero, Senator John Drummond.

Finally, there is one fundamental tool for improving South Carolina's schools that we have not discussed yet tonight.

Education lottery tickets are on sale now. But there are crucial pieces of business that remain unfinished. We need our lottery to reach its full potential. First, we must work together to give South Carolina the college scholarships and world-class educational opportunity the people voted for. And it is time to allow South Carolinians to participate in multi-state Powerball games. These games will generate even more excitement and money for education.

And it's time to pass the people's lottery plan. College scholarships for our state's high school students... free graduate education for classroom teachers... and lifetime learning scholarships so that any adult at any age can attend a technical college and get the job skills they need.

When the people's lottery plan has passed, lifelong learning will become the birthright of every South Carolinian. More than 100,000 students will receive scholarship benefits. And every worker will be able to attend technical college.

Our lottery plan is needed now more than ever. More research at our state's universities equals more jobs. And the lottery scholarships make it possible for laid-off workers to learn new skills. These scholarships will make a higher education available to every South Carolinian who earns one.

Eliminating portables... better teacher pay... modern classrooms... these are not the projects of a single legislative session or a single term of office. These are no quick fixes or easy solutions. These are goals that cannot be completed in one year or two. But these are the works we are called upon to do, from generation to generation.

We have proved it possible to cut spending, while preserving education and health care. We have balanced the budget during tough times, without raising taxes. It is a "can do" spirit. This year, let's bring that same spirit of progress to bear and reach our goals together.

Ladies and gentlemen, we agree on so many ideas. South Carolinians want better schools, lean government and safe communities. Let's throw out the old stumbling block of partisanship and politics. And remember the heroes we met tonight. They deserve cooperation and progress.

I recall the words President Bush used just 11 weeks ago, "We've got to put aside political differences and act swiftly and strongly."

What the president asked of the nation, I ask of you.

Let's take these fresh approaches to old problems, together... the best homeland security in the nation... protecting jobs while starting new initiatives for the New Economy... advancing, not retreating on educational progress.

This is the work of the swift and the strong!

Thank you. God bless you, and God bless the great State of South Carolina.

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

On motion of Senator RICHARDSON, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Lance Cpl. Dana Lyle Tate of Beaufort, S.C., civil law enforcement officer, who lost his life in the performance of his duties.

At 7:41 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.

This web page was last updated on Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 1:12 P.M.