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.
A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by the Chaplain as follows:
Beloved, tomorrow at this hour, two in the afternoon, JIM STEVENS will be buried in his beloved Loris.
Hear words from St. Paul to Timothy: II Tim. 2:15:
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved by Him."
Let us pray.
Thank You, Father, for the life and labors of Your servant, JAMES STEVENS. He showed the world that winning the game on earth was not life's goal, but fidelity is!
We give Him back to You with gratitude! Give him a place in Paradise... by grace!
To his family we say, "Thanks for sharing JIM with us for 21 years. You have our prayers."
We know, Father, that we are not guaranteed a tomorrow here. Help us to be faithful... today!
Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
S. 980 (Word version) -- Senator Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-704 SO AS TO DESIGNATE GOLDENROD THE OFFICIAL STATE WILDFLOWER.
On motion of Senator KUHN, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator KUHN was added as a co-sponsor of S. 980.
On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, with unanimous consent, the Senate agreed that, when it adjourned today, it stand adjourned to meet Thursday, April 18, 2002, at 12:00 Noon.
There was no objection and the motion was adopted.
S. 1131 (Word version) -- Senators Patterson, Giese, Courson and Jackson: A BILL TO ENACT THE "RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ACT" BY PROVIDING FOR THE IMPOSITION OF A SPECIAL ONE PERCENT SALES AND USE TAX IN RICHLAND COUNTY FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY YEARS WITH THE REVENUE OF THE TAX USED TO DEFRAY GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT SERVICE OR OTHERWISE DEFRAY THE COSTS OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS OF RICHLAND COUNTY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TAX MAY BE IMPOSED ONLY AFTER ITS APPROVAL IN A REFERENDUM HELD IN THE COUNTY, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REFERENDUM, AND TO PROVIDE THAT IF IMPOSED, THE TAX MUST BE COLLECTED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AND REMITTED TO THE RICHLAND COUNTY TREASURER FOR THE RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TAX IS IMPOSED AND IS SUBJECT TO THE SAME EXEMPTIONS AND MAXIMUM TAXES AS PROVIDED IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA SALES TAX ACT EXCEPT FOR AN ADDITIONAL EXEMPTION FOR FOOD ITEMS WHICH LAWFULLY MAY BE PURCHASED WITH UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOOD COUPONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE METHOD OF APPLYING THE REVENUES OF THE TAX TO SCHOOL DISTRICT GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT SERVICE.
Senator PATTERSON asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Finance.
There was no objection.
Senator PATTERSON 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 second reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator PATTERSON, with unanimous consent, the Bill was read the second time and ordered placed on the third reading Calendar.
On motion of Senator PATTERSON, with unanimous consent, S. 1131 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, April 18, 2002.
H. 4823 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Chellis, Battle, G. Brown, J. Brown, Cooper, Edge, Harrison, Hinson, Jennings, Law, Lee, Limehouse, Lourie, Miller, Perry, Quinn, Rice, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, F.N. Smith, J.E. Smith, Tripp, Trotter, Walker and White: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 11-35-35 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE STATE, A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THE STATE, OR OTHER PUBLIC ENTITY OF THE STATE FROM REQUIRING THAT A BOND TO SECURE THE BID OR THE PERFORMANCE OR PAYMENT OF THE CONTRACT BE FURNISHED BY A PARTICULAR SURETY COMPANY OR THROUGH A PARTICULAR AGENT OR BROKER; AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 11-1-120, 11-35-3030, AS AMENDED, 12-28-2740, 29-6-250, AND 57-5-1660, RELATING TO PAYMENT BONDS, BID BONDS, PERFORMANCE BONDS, LABOR AND MATERIAL BONDS, AND HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION BONDS, RESPECTIVELY, ALL SO AS TO ADD CONFORMING LANGUAGE PROHIBITING THE STATE, A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE, OR OTHER PUBLIC ENTITY OF THE STATE FROM REQUIRING THAT THE BOND BE FURNISHED BY A PARTICULAR SURETY COMPANY OR THROUGH A PARTICULAR AGENT OR BROKER.
Senator THOMAS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Finance.
There was no objection.
The Bill was recalled from the Committee and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
The following were introduced:
S. 1224 (Word version) -- Senators Richardson and Giese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-40-200 TO PROVIDE FOR THE VALIDITY OF THE REMAINING PROVISIONS IN CHAPTER 40 OF TITLE 59 IN THE EVENT ONE OF THE PROVISIONS IS HELD TO BE UNCONSTITUTIONAL OR INVALID.
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Senator RICHARDSON spoke on the Bill.
Senator RICHARDSON asked unanimous consent to place the Bill on the Calendar without reference.
Senator PATTERSON objected.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
S. 1225 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT PROPERTY OF NONPROFIT HOUSING CORPORATIONS AND THEIR SOLELY-OWNED INSTRUMENTALITIES WHICH IS DEVOTED TO PROVIDING HOUSING TO LOW OR VERY LOW INCOME RESIDENTS SUBJECT TO SATISFYING THE REQUIREMENTS OF REVENUE PROCEDURE 96-32.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 1226 (Word version) -- Senator Land: A BILL TO REPEAL SECTION 50-11-1280, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON SHOOTING PRESERVES IN GAME ZONES 7 AND 9.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
S. 1227 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1700, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS OF HARASSMENT AND STALKING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT HARASSMENT INCLUDES UNLAWFULLY DIRECTING OR FOCUSING A DIGITAL, ELECTRONIC, LASER, HEAT-SEEKING, NOISE-MAKING, LISTENING, OR OTHER ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL DEVICE ON ANOTHER PERSON, HIS DWELLING, OR ANY OTHER PLACE WHERE THE TARGETED PERSON SEEKS SECLUSION FROM PUBLIC VIEW OR HAS A REASONABLE EXPECTATION OF PRIVACY, AND SENDING AN OBSCENE, THREATENING, OR HARASSING COMMUNICATION TO ANOTHER PERSON WHO IS AN UNWILLING RECIPIENT WITH THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF CONVEYING AN UNSOLICITED OBSCENE, IMMINENTLY THREATENING, OR HARASSING MESSAGE TO AN UNWILLING RECIPIENT; TO PROVIDE THAT, IN AN EGREGIOUS CASE, HARASSMENT INCLUDES A SINGLE ACT OF INTENTIONAL, SUBSTANTIAL, AND UNREASONABLE INTRUSION INTO THE PRIVACY, PRIVATE LIFE, OR PERSONAL SPACE OF A TARGETED PERSON THAT IS CONSPICUOUSLY BAD OR OFFENSIVE AND CAUSES THE PERSON AND WOULD CAUSE A REASONABLE PERSON IN HIS POSITION TO SUFFER FEAR, OUTRAGE, OR MENTAL DISTRESS, TO PROVIDE "STALKING" ALSO MEANS A SINGLE INSTANCE OF CERTAIN CONDUCT IN AN EGREGIOUS CASE OR SITUATION; TO DEFINE "VIDEO VOYEURISM", AND "ROUTINE IMAGING OR VIDEO MONITORING FOR SECURITY PURPOSES", "SURVEILLANCE", "PRIVACY", "PERSONAL SPACE", "INVADE" AND "EGREGIOUS CASE OR SITUATION"; AND TO AMEND CHAPTER 17, TITLE 16, RELATING TO OFFENSES AGAINST THE PERSON, BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-1735 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO ENGAGE IN VIDEO VOYEURISM, TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS TO THE APPLICATION OF THIS SECTION, TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF SECTIONS 16-3-1740 THROUGH 16-3-1840 ARE APPLICABLE IN SITUATIONS AND CASES INVOLVING VIDEO VOYEURISM IN LIKE MANNER AND TO THE SAME EXTENT THEY ARE APPLICABLE IN SITUATIONS AND CASES OF HARASSMENT, STALKING, OR AGGRAVATED STALKING, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS SECTION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 1228 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Moore and Ritchie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX 12:00 NOON ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2002, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2003; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, AT-LARGE SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2003; AND 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.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and, on motion of Senator MOORE, with unanimous consent, ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.
S. 1229 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson and Courson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO JOIN THE CITIZENS OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN EXPRESSING THEIR CONGRATULATIONS TO THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM ON ITS SPECTACULAR RECORD-SETTING 2001-2002 SEASON AND ON ITS VITAL ROLE IN HIGHLIGHTING THE EXCITEMENT OF WOMEN'S SPORTS FOR SOUTH CAROLINA FANS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
S. 1230 (Word version) -- Senators Moore, Alexander, Anderson, Bauer, Branton, Courson, Drummond, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Giese, Glover, Gregory, Grooms, Hawkins, Hayes, Holland, Hutto, Jackson, Kuhn, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Martin, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Mescher, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Ravenel, Reese, Richardson, Ritchie, Ryberg, Saleeby, Setzler, Short, J. Verne Smith, Thomas, Verdin and Waldrep: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION SALUTING JAY JOHNSON AND HIS FELLOW "SWAMP FOXES" FIGHTER PILOTS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO FREEDOM IN THE WAR ON TERRORISM IN SOUTHWEST ASIA.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.
H. 3095 (Word version) -- Rep. Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 14-25-15, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF MUNICIPAL JUDGES, SO AS TO PRESCRIBE A FOUR-YEAR TERM OF OFFICE RATHER THAN HAVING THE COUNCIL OF THE MUNICIPALITY SET THE TERM.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 4180 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-55-330, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO FUNERAL DIRECTORS ACTING AS AGENTS FOR LIFE INSURERS FOR FUNDING PRENEED FUNERAL CONTRACTS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION REQUIRING THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF FUNERAL SERVICE TO VERIFY THAT SUCH AN INSURANCE POLICY IS CONSISTENT WITH STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS FOR PRENEED FUNERAL CONTRACTS.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
H. 4456 (Word version) -- Rep. Kirsh: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-1-125 SO AS TO REQUIRE PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING BOARDS TO DENY LICENSURE OR SUSPEND THE LICENSE OF AN INDIVIDUAL FOR NONPAYMENT OR DEFAULT OR BREACH OF A REPAYMENT OR SERVICE OBLIGATION UNDER ANY FEDERAL OR STATE EDUCATIONAL LOAN, LOAN REPAYMENT, OR SERVICE-CONDITIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
H. 4591 (Word version) -- Reps. Townsend and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-18-700, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CRITERIA FOR THE ADOPTION OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS FOR THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SO AS TO REVISE THIS CRITERIA BY PROVIDING THAT ALL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS PLACED ON THE APPROVED LIST OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND TEXTBOOKS FOR USE IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF THIS STATE SHALL CONTAIN THE SUBSTANCE AND LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE OUTLINED IN THE GRADE AND SUBJECT SPECIFIC ACADEMIC STANDARDS ADOPTED BY THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 4720 (Word version) -- Rep. Rhoad: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL DAYS MISSED ON JANUARY 3 AND 4, 2002, BY THE STUDENTS OF A SCHOOL IN BAMBERG COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 1 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.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 4721 (Word version) -- Rep. Rhoad: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL DAYS MISSED ON JANUARY 7 AND 8, 2002, BY THE STUDENTS OF A SCHOOL IN BAMBERG COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 WHEN THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED DUE TO WATER PROBLEMS 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.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.
H. 4960 (Word version) -- Reps. J. Young, G.M. Smith, G. Brown, J.H. Neal and Weeks: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO RENAME A PORTION OF MCCRAY'S MILL ROAD IN SUMTER COUNTY THE "JOHN M. MAHON HIGHWAY" IN RECOGNITION OF JOHN M. MAHON, A DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN OF SUMTER COUNTY.
The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
H. 5001 (Word version) -- Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, RELATING TO REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE DEPARTMENT, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2685, 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 Fish, Game and Forestry.
H. 5068 (Word version) -- Education and Public Works Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO TESTING PROGRAMS (NEW TITLE: ASSESSMENT PROGRAM), DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2613, 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 Education.
H. 5122 (Word version) -- Reps. Allison and Leach: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING JERRY HIGHTOWER OF SPARTANBURG COUNTY ON BEING CHOSEN FOR THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ENTREPRENEUR OF EXCELLENCE AWARD" BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5124 (Word version) -- Reps. J. Brown, M. Hines, Breeland, Clyburn, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, G. Brown, R. Brown, Campsen, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, 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, 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, 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, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE ALLEN UNIVERSITY CLASS OF 1952 ON THE OCCASION OF ITS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR AND TO COMMEND THE CLASS OF 1952 ON ITS MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES AND ENDEAVORS.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5126 (Word version) -- Rep. W.D. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE, COMMEND, HONOR, AND EXPRESS THE CONGRATULATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO COACH DOUG LOWE, HEAD BASKETBALL COACH OF SPARTANBURG HIGH SCHOOL "VIKINGS" BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM, FOR HIS OUTSTANDING COACHING ABILITIES AND GUIDANCE IN LEADING THE "VIKINGS" TO THE 2001-2002 CLASS AAAA STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5127 (Word version) -- Reps. W.D. Smith, Sinclair, Littlejohn, Talley and Lee: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE SINCERE CONGRATULATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO THE SPARTANBURG HIGH SCHOOL "VIKINGS" BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM AND THEIR COACHES FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL SEASON AND ON WINNING THE 2001-2002 CLASS AAAA STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5128 (Word version) -- Rep. Huggins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE CHAPIN HIGH SCHOOL SAT TEAM - 2002 FOR ITS HARD WORK, PREPARATION, AND DETERMINATION AND TO CONGRATULATE THE TEAM MEMBERS AND COACHES FOR THEIR REMARKABLE PERFORMANCE IN THE FINAL ROUND OF COMPETITION BY WINNING THE 2002 CLASS AA SAT STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5130 (Word version) -- Reps. G. Brown, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Breeland, 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, 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, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE APPRECIATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO OUR DEAR FRIEND, JOE PINNER OF RICHLAND COUNTY, FOR HIS MANY REMARKABLE DEEDS OF PUBLIC SERVICE TO THE PALMETTO STATE AND TO RECOGNIZE HIM FOR HIS OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS AS AN ADVOCATE FOR HUMANITY.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5136 (Word version) -- Reps. Sharpe and Frye: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE KINGS ACADEMY GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM, THEIR COACHES, STAFF, AND OTHER OFFICIALS FOR THEIR 57-46 WIN OVER CAROLINA ACADEMY FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION AA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5140 (Word version) -- Rep. Lucas: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND MASTER CHRIS HAAS, A SIXTH GRADE CAPTAIN OF THE NORTH HARTSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SAFETY PATROL, FOR HIS HEROIC ACTIONS THAT RESULTED IN SAVING THE LIFE OF A FELLOW STUDENT.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5142 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, J. Hines, M. Hines and Lucas: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND CONGRATULATE CAPTAIN DARRYL A. KELLY FOR BEING THE FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN TO REPRESENT THE SOUTH CAROLINA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD IN WASHINGTON, D.C. ON MAY 22, 2002, WHEN HE WILL RECEIVE THE GENERAL DOUGLAS MACARTHUR LEADERSHIP AWARD.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 5144 (Word version) -- Reps. Lourie, J.E. Smith, Thompson, Whipper, Allison, Allen, 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, 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, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, Sinclair, D.C. Smith, F.N. Smith, G.M. Smith, J.R. Smith, W.D. Smith, Snow, Stille, Stuart, Talley, Taylor, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Weeks, Whatley, White, Wilder, Wilkins, Witherspoon, A. Young and J. Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM ON AN EXCELLENT AND EXCITING 2001-2002 SEASON FOR WOMEN'S SPORTS AND FOR SOUTH CAROLINA FANS.
The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
Senator COURSON from the Committee on Invitations polled out H. 5013 favorable:
H. 5013 (Word version) -- Reps. Meacham-Richardson, Leach, Simrill, Clyburn, Allison, Bales, Barrett, Carnell, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Frye, Gilham, Govan, Harrison, Hinson, Hosey, Keegan, Kelley, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, J.M. Neal, Owens, Phillips, Rice, Riser, Rodgers, Sandifer, Sinclair, J.R. Smith, Snow, Stille, Walker and Wilder: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE APRIL AS "SOUTH CAROLINA CHRISTIAN HERITAGE MONTH".
AYES
Courson Matthews Patterson O'Dell McGill Waldrep Alexander Bauer Peeler Elliott Kuhn
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Columbia, S.C., April 17, 2002
Mr. President and Senators:
The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the Report of the Committee of Conference on:
H. 3163 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, Jennings, Campsen, Wilder, Whatley, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Owens, Altman, Lourie, McLeod, Bowers, Robinson, Simrill, J.E. Smith, Harrell and Harvin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3535, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORIC REHABILITATION INCENTIVES ACT" WHICH PROVIDES AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR EXPENDITURES TO REHABILITATE HISTORIC STRUCTURES, WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE CARRY FORWARD OF UNUSED CREDIT, AND WHICH AUTHORIZES THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY AND THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SECTION.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House
Received as information.
H. 3163 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, Jennings, Campsen, Wilder, Whatley, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Owens, Altman, Lourie, McLeod, Bowers, Robinson, Simrill, J.E. Smith, Harrell and Harvin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3535, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORIC REHABILITATION INCENTIVES ACT" WHICH PROVIDES AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR EXPENDITURES TO REHABILITATE HISTORIC STRUCTURES, WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE CARRY FORWARD OF UNUSED CREDIT, AND WHICH AUTHORIZES THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY AND THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SECTION.
On motion of Senator COURSON, with unanimous consent, the Report of the Committee of Conference was taken up for immediate consideration.
Senator COURSON spoke on the report.
On motion of Senator COURSON, the Report of the Committee of Conference to H. 3163 was adopted as follows:
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., April 12, 2002
The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 3163 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, Jennings, Campsen, Wilder, Whatley, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Owens, Altman, Lourie, McLeod, Bowers, Robinson, Simrill, J.E. Smith, Harrell and Harvin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3535, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORIC REHABILITATION INCENTIVES ACT" WHICH PROVIDES AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR EXPENDITURES TO REHABILITATE HISTORIC STRUCTURES, WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE CARRY FORWARD OF UNUSED CREDIT, AND WHICH AUTHORIZES THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY AND THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SECTION.
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:
/SECTION 1. This act may be cited as the "South Carolina Historic Rehabilitation Incentives Act".
SECTION 2. The 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 12-6-3535. (A) A taxpayer who is allowed a federal income tax credit under Section 47 of the Internal Revenue Code for making qualified rehabilitation expenditures for a certified historic structure located in this State is allowed to claim a credit against the tax imposed by this chapter. For the purposes of this section, 'taxpayer', 'qualified rehabilitation expenditures', and 'certified historic structure' are defined as provided in the Internal Revenue Code Section 47 and the applicable Treasury regulations. The amount of the credit is ten percent of the expenditures that qualify for the federal credit. To claim the credit allowed by this subsection, the taxpayer must attach to the return a copy of the section of the federal income tax return showing the credit claimed, along with any other information that the Department of Revenue determines is necessary for the calculation of the credit provided by this subsection.
(B) A taxpayer who is not eligible for a federal income tax credit under Section 47 of the Internal Revenue Code and who makes rehabilitation expenses for a certified historic residential structure located in this State is allowed to claim a credit against the tax imposed by this chapter. The amount of the credit is twenty-five percent of the rehabilitation expenses. To claim the credit allowed by this subsection, the taxpayer must attach to the return a copy of the certification obtained from the State Historic Preservation Officer verifying that the historic structure has been rehabilitated in accordance with this subsection, along with all information that the Department of Revenue determines is necessary for the calculation of the credit provided by this subsection.
For the purposes of this subsection:
(1) 'Certified historic residential structure' means a structure or portion of a structure that is an owner-occupied personal residence if the residence is not actively used in a trade or business, held for the production of income, or held for sale or disposition in the ordinary course of the taxpayer's trade or business; and that is:
(a) listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places;
(b) considered by the State Historic Preservation Officer to contribute to the historic significance of a National Register Historic District;
(c) considered by the State Historic Preservation Officer to meet the criteria for individual listing in the National Register of Historic Places; or
(d) an outbuilding of an otherwise eligible property considered by the State Historic Preservation Officer to contribute to the historic significance of the property.
(2) 'Certified rehabilitation' means repairs or alterations consistent with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and certified as such by the State Historic Preservation Officer before commencement of the work. The review by the State Historic Preservation Officer shall include all repairs, alterations, rehabilitation, and new construction on the certified historic residential structure and the property on which it is located. The rehabilitation expenses must, within a thirty-six-month period, exceed fifteen thousand dollars. A taxpayer shall not take more than one credit on the same certified historic residential structure within ten years.
(3) 'Rehabilitation expenses' means expenses incurred in the certified rehabilitation of a certified historic residential structure, including preservation and rehabilitation work done to the exterior of a historic structure, repair and stabilization of historic structural systems, restoration of historic plaster, energy efficiency measures except insulation in frame walls, repairs or rehabilitation of heating, air-conditioning, or ventilating systems, repairs or rehabilitation of electrical or plumbing systems exclusive of new electrical appliances and electrical or plumbing fixtures, and architectural and engineering fees.
'Rehabilitation expenses' do not include the cost of acquiring or marketing the property, the cost of new construction beyond the volume of the existing building, the value of an owner's personal labor, or the cost of personal property.
(4) 'State Historic Preservation Officer' means the Director of the Department of Archives and History or the director's designee who administers the historic preservation programs within the State.
(C)(1) The entire credit may not be taken for the taxable year in which the property is placed in service, but must be taken in equal installments over a five-year period beginning with the year in which the property is placed in service. For a certified rehabilitation of a certified historic residential structure 'placed in service' is defined as the taxable year the certified rehabilitation is completed. Any unused portion of any credit installment may be carried forward for the succeeding five years.
(2) A 'S' corporation, limited liability company, or partnership that qualifies for a credit under this section may pass through the credit earned to each shareholder of the 'S' corporation, member of the limited liability company, or partner of the partnership. For purposes of this subsection, limited liability company means a limited liability company taxed as a partnership. The amount of the credit allowed a shareholder, member, or partner by this subsection is equal to the shareholder's percentage of stock ownership, member's interest in the limited liability company, or the partner's interest in the partnership for the taxable year multiplied by the amount of the credit earned by the entity. The credit earned pursuant to this section by a 'S' corporation owing corporate level income tax must be used first at the entity level. Only the remaining credit passes through to each shareholder.
(D) Additional work done by the taxpayer while the credit is being claimed, for a period of up to five years, must be consistent with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. During this period the State Historic Preservation Officer may review additional work to the certified historic structure or certified historic residential structure and has the right to inspect certified historic structures and certified historic residential structures. If additional work is not consistent with the Standards for Rehabilitation, the taxpayer and Department of Revenue must be notified in writing and any unused portion of the credit, including carry forward, is forfeited.
(E) The Department of Revenue may promulgate regulations, including the establishment of fees, to administer the tax credit.
(F) A taxpayer may appeal a decision of the State Historic Preservation Officer to a committee of the State Review Board appointed by the chairperson."
SECTION 3. Upon approval by the Governor, this act is effective for taxable years beginning after 2002 for property placed in service after June 30, 2003. /
Amend title to conform.
/TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3535, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORIC REHABILITATION INCENTIVES ACT" TO PROVIDE AN INCOME TAX CREDIT OF TEN PERCENT OF THE EXPENDITURES THAT QUALIFY FOR A FEDERAL TAX CREDIT TO REHABILITATE AN HISTORIC STRUCTURE; TO PROVIDE AN INCOME TAX CREDIT OF TWENTY-FIVE PERCENT OF THE EXPENDITURES TO REHABILITATE AN HISTORIC STRUCTURE THAT DO NOT QUALIFY FOR A FEDERAL TAX CREDIT; TO REQUIRE THE CREDIT TO BE TAKEN OVER A FIVE YEAR PERIOD BEGINNING WITH THE YEAR THE REHABILITATION OF THE STRUCTURE IS COMPLETE; TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SECTION; AND TO PROVIDE FOR APPEALS./
/s/ William H. O'Dell /s/George E. Campsen /s/Thomas C. Alexander /s/Lewis R. Vaughn /s/John E. Courson /s/Douglas Jennings On Part of the Senate. On Part of the House.
, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
The Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification.
A message was sent to the House accordingly.
S. 322 (Word version) -- Senators Mescher, Grooms and Branton: A BILL TO AMEND SUBARTICLE 4, ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM, SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THIS PROGRAM COURT-APPOINTED GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN CUSTODY DISPUTES IN FAMILY COURT, TO PROVIDE THAT A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN A CUSTODY DISPUTE MAY CHARGE UP TO FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR SERVICES RENDERED IN A CASE, TO PROVIDE THAT CIVIL AND CRIMINAL IMMUNITY DOES NOT APPLY TO A GUARDIAN AD LITEM WHO CHARGES FOR SERVICES RENDERED, AND TO REQUIRE A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN A CUSTODY DISPUTE TO BE AT LEAST THIRTY YEARS OF AGE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE FAMILY COURT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IN ORDERING A MENTAL OR PSYCHIATRIC EXAMINATION IN CUSTODY DISPUTES, THE COURT MUST MAKE FINDINGS OF FACT THAT THERE IS PROBABLE CAUSE TO ORDER THE EXAMINATION AND THAT IT IS NECESSARY TO MAKE A DETERMINATION IN THE CASE.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.
Senators MARTIN and HUTTO proposed the following amendment (JUD0322.007), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:
/ SECTION 1. This act shall be cited as the "Guardian ad Litem Reform Act of 2002".
SECTION 2. Article 11, Chapter 7, Title 20 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
Guardians Ad Litem in Custody or Visitation Cases
Section 20-7-1533. (A) In an action before the family court in which custody or visitation is an issue, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem under the following circumstances:
(1) the court would not be fully informed about the facts of the case without the aid of a guardian ad litem;
(2) there is a substantial dispute between the parties which necessitates the use of a guardian ad litem; or
(3) both parties consent to the appointment of a guardian ad litem who is subsequently approved by the court.
(B) The court has absolute discretion in determining who will be appointed as a guardian ad litem in each case. A guardian ad litem must be appointed to a case by a court order.
Section 20-7-1535. (A) A guardian ad litem may be either an attorney or a layperson. A person must not be appointed as a guardian ad litem pursuant to Section 20-7-1533 unless he possesses the following qualifications:
(1) a guardian ad litem must be twenty-five years of age or older;
(2) a guardian ad litem must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent;
(3) for initial qualification, an attorney guardian ad litem must have completed a minimum of six hours of family law continuing legal education credit in the areas of custody and visitation;
(4) for initial qualification, a lay guardian ad litem must have completed a minimum of nine hours of continuing education in the areas of custody and visitation and three hours of continuing education related to substantive law and procedure in family court. The courses must be approved by the Supreme Court Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization;
(5) a lay guardian ad litem must observe three contested custody merits hearings prior to serving as a guardian ad litem. If a case settles before the contested merits hearing concludes, the requirements of this section are met if the plaintiff concludes his case before settlement; and
(6) attorney guardians ad litem and lay guardians ad litem must complete annually the same type of continuing education courses and the same number of continuing education hours that initially qualified them to be a guardian ad litem.
(B) No person may be appointed as a guardian ad litem pursuant to Section 20-7-1533 if he has been convicted of or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a crime of moral turpitude, a crime classified as a felony pursuant to Chapter 1 of Title 16, criminal domestic violence, or the common law offense of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature.
(C) No person may be appointed as a guardian ad litem pursuant to Section 20-7-1533 if he is or has ever been on the Department of Social Services Central Registry of Abuse and Neglect.
(D) Upon appointment to a case, a guardian ad litem must provide an affidavit to the court and to the parties attesting to compliance with the statutory qualifications. The affidavit must include, but is not limited to, the following:
(1) a statement affirming that the guardian ad litem does not have a relationship with any party or any party's attorney pursuant to the requirements of Section 20-7-1548, or if the guardian ad litem does have a relationship with any party or any party's attorney, the guardian ad litem must provide a statement disclosing the nature, duration, and extent of the relationship pursuant to the requirements of Section 20-7-1548;
(2) a statement affirming that the guardian ad litem has completed the training requirements provided for in subsection (A);
(3) a statement affirming that the guardian ad litem has not been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a crime of moral turpitude, a crime classified as a felony pursuant to Chapter 1 of Title 16, criminal domestic violence, or the common law offense of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature; and
(4) a statement affirming that the guardian ad litem is not nor has ever been on the Department of Social Services Central Registry of Child Abuse and Neglect pursuant to Section 20-7-650.
(E) The court may appoint an attorney for a lay guardian ad litem. A party or the guardian ad litem may petition the court by motion for the appointment of an attorney for the guardian ad litem. This appointment may be by consent order. The order appointing the attorney must set forth the reasons for the appointment and must establish a method for compensating the attorney.
Section 20-7-1540. The responsibilities and duties of a guardian ad litem are as follows:
(1) represent the best interest of the child;
(2) conduct an independent, balanced, and impartial investigation to determine the facts relevant to the situation of the child and the family. An investigation must include, but is not limited to:
(i) reviewing relevant documents, except that a guardian ad litem must not be compensated for reviewing documents related solely to financial matters not relevant to the suitability of the parents as to custody or visitation;
(ii) meeting with and observing the child in the home setting on at least one occasion;
(iii) interviewing parents, caregivers, school officials, law enforcement, and others with knowledge relevant to the case;
(iv) reviewing the child's school records and medical records, if the guardian considers it necessary;
(v) obtaining the criminal history of each party and, when determined necessary by the guardian ad litem, obtaining the criminal history of a witness; and
(vi) considering the wishes of the child, if appropriate;
(3) advocate for the child's best interest by making specific and clear suggestions, when necessary, for evaluation, services, and treatment for the child and the child's family. Evaluations or other services suggested by the guardian ad litem must not be ordered by the court, except upon proper review by the court;
(4) attend all court hearings related to custody and visitation issues, except when attendance is excused by the court or the absence is stipulated by both parties. A guardian must not be compensated for attending a hearing related solely to a financial matter if the matter is not relevant to the suitability of the parents as to custody or visitation. The guardian must provide accurate, current information directly to the court. During a guardian's testimony, the guardian must not comment on the presence of any person in the courtroom unless the person is a witness in the case and the comment relates to the person's testimony or relationship to the child;
(5) maintain a complete file, including notes. A guardian's notes are his work product, and are not subject to subpoena; and
(6) present to the court and all parties clear and comprehensive written reports including, but not limited to, a final written report regarding the child's best interest. The final written report may contain conclusions based upon the facts contained in the report. The final written report must be submitted to the court and all parties no later than thirty days prior to the merits hearing, unless that time period is modified by the court, but in no event later than ten days prior to the merits hearing. The ten-day requirement for the submission of the final written report may only be waived by mutual consent of both parties. The final written report must not include a recommendation concerning which party should be awarded custody; nor may the guardian ad litem make a recommendation as to the issue of custody at the merits hearing unless requested by the court for reasons specifically set forth on the record. The guardian ad litem is subject to cross-examination on the facts and conclusions contained in the final written report. The final written report must include the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of those interviewed during the investigation.
Section 20-7-1543. A guardian ad litem must not mediate, attempt to mediate, or act as a mediator in a case to which he has been appointed unless the guardian has been trained and certified pursuant to the rules of the circuit court and family court as to arbitration and mediation promulgated by the South Carolina Supreme Court by order dated January 31, 1995.
Section 20-7-1545. (A) At the time of appointment of a guardian ad litem, the family court judge must set forth the method and rate of compensation for the guardian ad litem, including an initial authorization of a fee based on the facts of the case. The guardian ad litem must not charge the parties a fee exceeding the amount authorized by the judge at the time of appointment. If the guardian ad litem determines that it is necessary to exceed the fee initially authorized by the judge, the guardian must provide notice to both parties and obtain the judge's written authorization to charge more than the initially authorized fee.
(B) A guardian appointed by the court is entitled to reasonable compensation, subject to the review and approval of the court. In determining the reasonableness of the fees and costs, the court must take into account:
(1) the complexity of the issues before the court;
(2) the contentiousness of the litigation;
(3) the time expended by the guardian;
(4) the expenses reasonably incurred by the guardian;
(5) the financial ability of each party to pay fees and costs; and
(6) any other factors the court considers necessary.
(C) The guardian ad litem must submit a monthly, itemized billing statement of hours, expenses, costs, and fees to the parties and their attorneys.
(D) At any time during the action, a party may petition the court to review the reasonableness of the fees and costs submitted by the guardian ad litem or the attorney for the guardian ad litem.
Section 20-7-1548. A guardian ad litem appointed pursuant to Section 20-7-1533 must, upon notice of the appointment, provide written disclosure to each party of the nature, duration, and extent of any relationship the guardian or any member of the guardian's immediate family residing in the guardian's household has with all parties and their attorneys in the case. The guardian must disclose any membership or participation in any organization related to child abuse, domestic violence, or drug and alcohol abuse.
Section 20-7-1550. A guardian ad litem may be removed from a case at the discretion of the court for good cause shown. 'Good cause' includes, but is not limited to, the failure to disclose to the parties any relationship the guardian or any member of the guardian's immediate family residing in the guardian's household has with all parties and attorneys in the case.
SECTION 3. Section 20-7-420(37) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:
"(37) To appoint guardians ad litem and determine their compensation, fees, and costs and to assess as compensation, fees, and costs against the person represented by the guardian ad litem or against any other person or party involved in the action in actions pertaining to custody or visitation pursuant to Section 20-7-1533."
SECTION 4. This act takes effect six months after the Governor's signature and applies to a guardian ad litem appointed in a custody case on or after the effective date. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the House amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
There being no further amendments, the Bill was ordered returned to the House with amendments.
H. 3142 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Wilkins, Walker, Simrill, Davenport, Sandifer, Vaughn, Robinson, Altman, Cotty, White, Thompson, Knotts, Campsen, McGee, Coates and Bingham: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 41-7-75 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 41, CONCERNING "THE RIGHT TO WORK" AND TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN POWERS AND IMPART DUTIES TO CARRY THIS OUT; BY ADDING SECTION 41-7-100 SO AS TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 41, AND TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS ESTABLISHING PROCEDURES FOR ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW OF PENALTIES ASSESSED; TO AMEND SECTION 41-7-30, RELATING TO PROHIBITING AN EMPLOYER FROM REQUIRING OR PROHIBITING MEMBERSHIP IN A LABOR ORGANIZATION AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT, SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THE PROHIBITION AN AGREEMENT OR PRACTICE THAT HAS THE EFFECT OF REQUIRING SUCH MEMBERSHIP AND TO PROHIBIT A LABOR ORGANIZATION FROM INDUCING AN EMPLOYER TO VIOLATE THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 41-7-40, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY TO DEDUCT LABOR ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP DUES FROM WAGES, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE SUCH DEDUCTION IF AN EMPLOYEE ENTERS A WRITTEN AGREEMENT AUTHORIZING THE DEDUCTION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 41-7-90, RELATING TO REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF RIGHTS, SO AS TO CREATE A PRIVATE CAUSE OF ACTION ON BEHALF OF AN EMPLOYEE AGGRIEVED BY VIOLATIONS OF THIS CHAPTER.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
The following Bill and Joint Resolution were read the third time and ordered sent to the House of Representatives:
S. 834 (Word version) -- Senators Kuhn, Ford and Peeler: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO REQUIRE THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION IN THE 2002-2003 SCHOOL YEAR TO ASSIST INTERESTED SCHOOLS IN IMPLEMENTING STRUCTURED ACADEMIC MENTORING PROGRAMS, DESIGNED TO IMPROVE STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND TO ASSIST THESE SCHOOLS IN DEVELOPING STRUCTURED ACADEMIC MENTORING PROGRAMS THAT MEET THE CRITERIA NECESSARY TO QUALIFY FOR READING FIRST FUNDS ESTABLISHED UNDER THE NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT OF 2001 OR ANY OTHER RESOURCES THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE.
S. 971 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S JUSTICE TASK FORCE ACT", SO AS TO ADD SECTION 20-7-497 TO ESTABLISH THIS TASK FORCE AS AN ADVISORY BODY TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE GOVERNOR ON ISSUES RELATED TO THE INVESTIGATIVE, ADMINISTRATIVE, AND JUDICIAL HANDLING OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT CASES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE TASK FORCE AND ITS POWERS AND DUTIES.
S. 530 (Word version) -- Senators Short, Glover, Hutto, Leventis and Setzler: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 37, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CONSUMER PROTECTION CODE, BY ADDING CHAPTER 20 SO AS TO ENACT THE "CONSUMER IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION ACT", TO PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN IDENTITY THEFT DATABASE BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, TO PROVIDE AN EXPEDITED COURT PROCEDURE FOR CLEARING THE NAME OF AN IDENTITY THEFT VICTIM, TO PROVIDE STRICT REQUIREMENTS FOR IDENTITY VERIFICATION BY A CREDIT CARD ISSUER, TO PROVIDE FOR THE BLOCKING OF INACCURATE CREDIT REPORT INFORMATION RESULTING FROM IDENTITY THEFT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT AGENCY'S NOTICE AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS CONFORM TO THOSE OF THE FEDERAL FAIR CREDIT REPORTING ACT.
Senator SHORT 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 HAWKINS proposed the following amendment (JUD0530.001), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 5, after line 19, by adding appropriately numbered new SECTIONS to read:
/ SECTION . Title 37 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
Privacy from Unwanted Telephone Solicitation
Section 37-19-10. (A)(1) The General Assembly recognizes that the citizens of this State receive numerous unsolicited telephone calls from various entities, interests, and industries. The General Assembly further recognizes that the citizens of South Carolina are entitled to enjoy freedom from unwanted intrusions into their homes. It is the intent of this article to:
(a) strike a balance between free speech and trade and a citizen's right to privacy; and
(b) provide a citizen who does not wish to receive solicitations at home with a means of preventing those calls, while allowing a telephone solicitor to continue to call a citizen who does wish to receive those calls at home.
(2) As used in this article, the term:
(a) 'Caller identification service' means a type of telephone service which permits a telephone subscriber to see the telephone number of an incoming telephone call.
(b) 'Commission' means the Public Service Commission.
(c) 'Previously established relationship' means a prior or existing relationship formed by a voluntary two-way communication between a person or an entity and a residential subscriber, with or without an exchange of consideration, on the basis of an inquiry, application, purchase, or transaction by the residential subscriber regarding a specific product or specific service offered by the person or entity, but does not extend to another product or service offered by the person or entity. This term also includes an established relationship with a not-for-profit entity through a previous donation to the entity or participation in the activities of the entity.
(d) 'Residential subscriber' means a person who has subscribed to residential telephone service from a local exchange carrier or competing local exchange carrier, and the other persons living or residing with a person who has subscribed to telephone service, who uses the service primarily for residential purposes.
(e) 'Unsolicited telephone call' means a voice communication over a telephone line from or on behalf of a person or an entity with whom a residential subscriber has no previously established relationship or personal relationship. The communication may be from a live operator, through the use of a dual party relay system as defined in Section 58-9-2510, an automatically dialed announcing device as defined in Section 16-17-446, or by other means.
(f) 'Local exchange carrier' means either an incumbent local exchange carrier or a new entrant local exchange carrier, as defined in Section 58-9-10.
(B) A person or entity must not knowingly make or cause to be made an unsolicited telephone call to the telephone line of a residential subscriber in this State who has given notice to the commission in accordance with subsection (C) of this section and whose telephone number is on the list, of the subscriber's objection to receiving unsolicited telephone calls, if the call is:
(1) advertising or offering for sale, lease, rental, or as a gift any goods, services, or property; or
(2) soliciting donations of money, goods, services, or property.
(C)(1) The commission must establish and provide, at no cost to residential subscribers, a database to compile a 'No-Call List' of telephone numbers of residential subscribers who object to receiving unsolicited telephone calls of a type described in subsection (B) of this section. The commission must have the database in operation no later than six months from the effective date of this article.
(2) The database may be operated by the commission or by another entity under contract with the commission.
(3) To create the database required by this section, the commission must:
(a) require each local exchange carrier provide notification at least twice a year to each residential subscriber about the opportunity to subscribe to the No-Call List database, if the subscriber objects to receiving unsolicited telephone calls. At least one of the notifications must be conspicuously provided in the customer's bill. The carrier may provide the second notification in any manner not expressly prohibited by the commission including, but not limited to, television, radio, or newspaper advertisements; written correspondence; conspicuous inserts or messages in the customer's bill; or publication in the consumer information pages of the local telephone directory;
(b) specify the length of time for which a notice of objection is effective and the effect of a change of telephone number on the notice; and
(c) specify the methods by which a person desiring to make unsolicited telephone calls may obtain access to the database as required to avoid calling the telephone numbers of residential subscribers included in the database.
(4) If the Federal Communications Commission establishes a single national database of telephone numbers of subscribers who object to receiving telephone solicitations, the commission must include the part of the single national database that relates to South Carolina in the database established by this section.
(D) A person or an entity desiring to make unsolicited telephone calls must be charged a fee payable to the commission for access to or for paper or electronic copies of the database established pursuant to this section. The commission carrier may require that fees so charged are sufficient to cover the costs of the commission and the local exchange carriers in the compilation and preparation of the database.
(E) A person or an entity who makes an unsolicited telephone call to the telephone line of a residential subscriber in this State:
(1) must state clearly, at the beginning of the call, the identity of the person or entity initiating the call; and
(2) must not utilize a method to block or otherwise circumvent the subscriber's use of a caller identification services.
(F)(1) The Attorney General must investigate complaints received concerning violations of this article and may initiate proceedings relating to a violation or threatened violation of subsection (B). These proceedings may include, without limitation, an injunction, a civil penalty up to a maximum of five thousand dollars for each, and additional relief in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Attorney General may issue investigative demands, issue subpoenas, administer oaths, and conduct hearings in the course of investigating a violation of subsection (B).
(2) In addition to the penalties provided in item (1) of this subsection, any person or entity that violates subsection (B) is subject to all penalties, remedies, and procedures provided in the Unfair Trade Practices Act, Article 1, Chapter 5, Title 39. The remedies available in this item are cumulative and in addition to any other remedies available by law.
(3) A person who receives more than one telephone solicitation within a twelve-month period by or on behalf of the same person or entity in violation of subsection (B) may:
(a) bring an action to enjoin the violation;
(b) bring an action to recover actual monetary loss from the violation and attorney's fees or to receive up to two thousand dollars in damages for each violation and attorney's fees, whichever is greater; or
(c) or both.
(G) A court of this State may exercise personal jurisdiction over a nonresident or his executor or administrator as to an action or proceeding authorized by this section in accordance with the provisions of Part 8, Chapter 2, Title 36.
(H) The remedies, duties, prohibitions, and penalties of this section are not exclusive and are in addition to all other causes of action, remedies, and penalties provided by law.
(I)(1) A provider of telephone caller identification service is not liable for violations of this section committed by other persons or entities.
(2) A telephone company is not liable for the enforcement of the provisions of this article nor for an error or omission in the database creating the 'No-Call List'."
SECTION . Section 30-4-40(a) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 122 of 1999, is further amended by adding:
"(17) The 'No-Call List' database established by Chapter 19, Title 37."
SECTION . Section 16-17-445(E) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 408 of 2000, is further amended to read:
"(E) Every A telephone solicitor operating in this State who makes unsolicited consumer telephone calls shall must implement in-house systems and procedures whereby every effort is made not to call subscribers who ask not to be called again. A telephone solicitor must use the 'No-Call List' established pursuant to Chapter 19, Title 37. The department has the authority to monitor compliance with this provision these provisions, except that the State Attorney General and the circuit solicitors have the enforcement powers granted in Chapter 19, Title 37 in connection with the 'No-Call List'. A person or his agent who has an interest in a vacation ownership plan or vacation timesharing plan may have the unit telephone number removed from a solicitor's in-house calling lists by sending written notification to the solicitor."
SECTION . This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator SHORT explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered sent to the House of Representatives.
S. 1208 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A BILL TO ENACT "STEPHANIE'S LAW"; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-510, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED OR PERMITTED TO REPORT CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO DETERMINE WHETHER PREVIOUS REPORTS HAVE BEEN MADE REGARDING A CHILD OR SUBJECT OF A REPORT AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO MAINTAIN A RECORD OF INFORMATION RECEIVED THAT IS NOT INVESTIGATED; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-650, RELATING TO DUTIES OF LOCAL CHILD PROTECTIVE AGENCIES, SO AS TO RE-CATEGORIZE UNFOUNDED REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-655, RELATING TO THE CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES APPEALS PROCESS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT CERTAIN RECORDS BE PURGED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-680, RELATING TO THE CENTRAL REGISTRY OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CENTRAL REGISTRY OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT MUST NOT CONTAIN INFORMATION FROM REPORTS CLASSIFIED AS UNFOUNDED.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the third reading of the Bill.
Senators WALDREP proposed the following amendment (JUD1208.001), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 4, beginning on line 13, in Section 20-7-650(G), as contained in SECTION 3, by striking lines 13-40 and inserting therein the following:
/ If the family court makes a specific determination, or the process described in Section 20-7-655 results in a determination that there is not a preponderance of evidence that the person who was the subject of the report committed an act of child abuse or neglect, but that the child was abused or neglected by an unknown person, the department's data system and records must be amended so that they do not identify the person as a perpetrator of abuse or neglect. The department must maintain the case as an indicated case. If the family court makes a determination or the process described in Section 20-7-655 results in a determination that the indicated finding is not supported by a preponderance of evidence that there was any act of child abuse or neglect, the case classification must be converted to `unfounded' and subsection (J) applies. /
Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 14, line 7, in Section 20-7-680(E), as contained in SECTION 4, by striking line 7 and inserting therein the following:
/ must be destroyed seven years from the date services are /.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator WALDREP explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered sent to the House of Representatives.
S. 1200 (Word version) -- Senators J. Verne Smith, Leatherman, Drummond, McConnell, Land, Holland, Saleeby, Setzler, Leventis, Moore, Courson, Giese, Matthews, Thomas, Patterson, McGill, O'Dell, Reese, Hayes, Gregory, Martin, Mescher, Rankin, Ryberg, Short, Waldrep, Alexander, Fair, Hutto, Anderson, Ravenel, Branton, Grooms, Hawkins, Pinckney, Ritchie, Verdin, Kuhn, Richardson, Peeler and Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 11, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCE, BY ADDING CHAPTER 41 ENACTING THE "STATE GENERAL OBLIGATION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOND ACT" SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING AS GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO PRESCRIBE THE TERMS, CONDITIONS, USES, AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE BONDS AND THEIR PROCEEDS; AND TO INCREASE THE LIMITATION ON GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND DEBT SERVICE PROVIDED IN ARTICLE X, SECTION 13 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTION FROM FIVE PERCENT TO SIX PERCENT WITH THE ADDITIONAL DEBT SERVICE LIMITED TO STATE GENERAL OBLIGATION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BONDS AS PROVIDED IN THIS ACT.
Senator RITCHIE asked unanimous consent to take up the Bill for immediate consideration.
There was no objection.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of Amendment No. 1 (BBM\9048HC02) proposed by Senators RITCHIE and PEELER and previously printed in the Journal of April 16, 2002.
On motion of Senator RITCHIE, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 1 was withdrawn.
On motion of Senator RITCHIE, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 1A was taken up for immediate consideration.
Senators RITCHIE and PEELER proposed the following Amendment No. 1A (BBM\21291HTC02), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking Section 11-41-30, as contained in SECTION 1, beginning on page 2, and inserting:
/ Section 11-41-30. As used in this chapter:
(1) 'Department' means the State Department of Commerce.
(2) 'Economic development project' or 'project' means a project as defined in Section 12-44-30(16) in which a total of at least four hundred million dollars is invested by the sponsor and at least four hundred new jobs are created at the project by the sponsor. To qualify as an economic development project for purposes of this chapter, the investment and job creation requirements must be attained no later than the eighth year after the project first begins operations.
(3) 'Infrastructure' must relate specifically to the economic development project and means:
(a) land acquisition;
(b) site preparation;
(c) road and highway improvements;
(d) rail spur construction;
(e) water service;
(f) wastewater treatment;
(g) employee training which may include equipment used for such purpose; and
(h) environmental mitigation.
(4) 'Investment' means money expended by the sponsor on capital assets directly related to the economic development project and does not include amounts expended in aid of the project by the State pursuant to this chapter or otherwise, or amounts expended in aid of the project by a county, municipality, a special purpose district, however financed.
(5) 'Sponsor' means a sole proprietor, partnership, corporation of any classification, limited liability company, or association taxable as a business entity or any combination of these entities.
(6) 'State general obligation economic development bonds' or 'economic development bonds' or 'bonds' means general obligation bonds of this State issued under the authority of this chapter.
(7) 'New job' means a full-time job created in this State at an economic development project. The term does not include a job created when an employee is shifted from an existing location in this State to a new or expanded facility whether the transferred job is from, or to, a project of the sponsor or a related person. A related person includes any entity or person that bears a relationship to the sponsor as described in Section 267 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Full-time means a job requiring a minimum of thirty-five hours of an employee's time a week for the entire normal year of sponsor operations or a job requiring a minimum of thirty-five hours of an employee's time a week for a year if the employee was hired initially for or transferred to the project. Two half-time jobs are considered one full-time job. A half-time job is a job requiring a minimum of twenty hours of an employee's time a week otherwise meeting the full-time job requirements. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform
Senator RITCHIE explained the amendment.
Senator JACKSON spoke on the amendment.
Senator MOORE moved that the text of the Bill, as amended, be printed upon the pages of the Journal and that the Bill be ordered to receive a third reading:
S. 1200 -- Senators J. Verne Smith, Leatherman, Drummond, McConnell, Land, Holland, Saleeby, Setzler, Leventis, Moore, Courson, Giese, Matthews, Thomas, Patterson, McGill, O'Dell, Reese, Hayes, Gregory, Martin, Mescher, Rankin, Ryberg, Short, Waldrep, Alexander, Fair, Hutto, Anderson, Ravenel, Branton, Grooms, Hawkins, Pinckney, Ritchie, Verdin, Kuhn, Richardson, Peeler and Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 11, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCE, BY ADDING CHAPTER 41 ENACTING THE "STATE GENERAL OBLIGATION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOND ACT" SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING AS GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO PRESCRIBE THE TERMS, CONDITIONS, USES, AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE BONDS AND THEIR PROCEEDS; AND TO INCREASE THE LIMITATION ON GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND DEBT SERVICE PROVIDED IN ARTICLE X, SECTION 13 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTION FROM FIVE PERCENT TO SIX PERCENT WITH THE ADDITIONAL DEBT SERVICE LIMITED TO STATE GENERAL OBLIGATION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BONDS AS PROVIDED IN THIS ACT.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:
SECTION 1. Title 11 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
Section 11-41-10. This chapter may be cited as the 'State General Obligation Economic Development Bond Act'.
Section 11-41-20. As incident to this chapter, the General Assembly finds:
(1) That by Section 4, Act 10 of 1985, the General Assembly ratified an amendment to Article X, Section 13(6)(c), Constitution of this State. One amendment, in Article X, Section 13(6)(c), limits the issuance of general obligation debt of the State such that maximum annual debt service on all general obligation bonds of the State, excluding highway bonds, state institution bonds, tax anticipation notes, and bond anticipation notes, must not exceed five percent of the general revenues of the State for the fiscal year next preceding, excluding revenues which are authorized to be pledged for state highway bonds and state institution bonds.
(2) Article X, Section 13(6)(c), as amended, further provides that the percentage rate of general revenues of the State by which general obligation bond debt service is limited may be reduced to four or increased to seven percent by legislative enactment passed by a two-thirds vote of the total membership of the Senate and a two-thirds vote of the total membership of the House of Representatives.
(3) In order to foster economic development within the State, it is in the best interests of the State that the limitation on general obligation debt imposed by Article X, Section 13(6)(c) be increased to six percent with the additional debt service capacity available at any time as a consequence of the increase available only for the repayment of general obligation bonds issued to provide infrastructure for economic development within the State.
Section 11-41-30. As used in this chapter:
(1) 'Department' means the State Department of Commerce.
(2) 'Infrastructure' means:
(a) land acquisition;
(b) site preparation;
(c) road and highway improvements;
(d) rail spur construction;
(e) water service;
(f) wastewater treatment;
(g) employee training which may include equipment used for such purpose; and
(h) environmental mitigation.
(3) 'State general obligation economic development bonds', or 'economic development bonds' or 'bonds' means general obligation bonds of this State issued under the authority of this chapter.
Section 11-41-40. To obtain funds for allocation to the department for financing of infrastructure, there are issued from time to time state general obligation economic development bonds under the conditions prescribed by this chapter.
Section 11-41-50. Pursuant to Article X, Section 13(6)(c) of the Constitution of this State, the General Assembly provides that the maximum annual debt service on all general obligation bonds of the State, including economic development bonds, but excluding highway bonds, state institution bonds, tax anticipation notes, and bond anticipation notes, must not exceed six percent of the general revenues of the State for the fiscal year next preceding, excluding revenues which are authorized to be pledged for state highway bonds and state institution bonds. The State at any time must not have outstanding general obligation bonds, excluding economic development bonds, highway bonds, state institution bonds, tax anticipation notes, and bond anticipation notes, the maximum annual debt service on which exceeds five percent of the general revenues of the State for the fiscal year next preceding, excluding revenues which are authorized to be pledged for state highway bonds and state institution bonds.
Section 11-41-60. The maximum annual debt service on bonds issued pursuant to this chapter must not exceed one percent of the general revenues of this State for the fiscal year next preceding, excluding revenues which are authorized to be pledged for state highway bonds and state institution bonds.
Section 11-41-70. Before issuing economic development bonds, the department shall notify the Joint Bond Review Committee and the State Budget and Control Board of the following:
(1) the amount then required for allocation to the department to defray the costs of the proposed infrastructure;
(2) a description of the infrastructure for which the bonds are to be issued, including a certification by the secretary of the department that each economic development project to benefit from the expenditure of the proceeds of the bonds consists of an investment in the State of not less than four hundred million dollars and creates no fewer than four hundred new jobs;
(3) a tentative time schedule setting forth the period of time during which the sum requested is to be expended;
(4) a debt service table showing the annual principal and interest requirements for all bonds then outstanding; and
(5) the total amount of all bonds issued.
Section 11-41-80. Following the receipt of the notification presented pursuant to Section 11-41-70 and after approval by the Joint Bond Review Committee, the State Budget and Control Board, by resolution duly adopted, shall effect the issue of bonds, or pending the issue of the bonds, effect the issue of bond anticipation notes pursuant to Chapter 17 of this title.
Section 11-41-90. To effect the issuance of bonds, the State Budget and Control Board shall adopt a resolution providing for the issuance of bonds pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. The authorizing resolution must include:
(1) a schedule showing the aggregate of bonds issued, the annual principal payments required to retire the bonds, and the interest on the bonds;
(2) the amount of bonds proposed to be issued;
(3) a schedule showing future annual principal requirements and estimated annual interest requirements on the bonds to be issued; and
(4) certificates evidencing that the provisions of Sections 11-41-50 and 11-41-60 of this chapter have been or will be met.
Section 11-41-100. The bonds must bear the date and mature at the time that the resolution provides, except that a bond may not mature more than thirty years from its date of issue. The bonds may be in the denominations, be payable in the medium of payment, be payable at the place and at the time, and be subject to redemption or repurchase and contain other provisions determined by the State Budget and Control Board before their issue. The bonds may bear interest payable at the times and at the rates determined by the State Budget and Control Board.
Section 11-41-110. All bonds issued under this chapter are exempt from taxation as provided in Section 12-2-50.
Section 11-41-120. All bonds issued under this chapter must be signed by the Governor and the State Treasurer. The Governor and State Treasurer may sign these obligations by a facsimile of their signatures. The Great Seal of the State must be affixed to, impressed on, or reproduced upon each of them and each must be attested by the Secretary of State. The delivery of the bonds executed and authenticated is valid notwithstanding changes in officers or seal occurring after the execution or authentication.
Section 11-41-130. For the payment of the principal and interest on all bonds issued and outstanding pursuant to this chapter there is pledged the full faith, credit, and taxing power of this State, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 13(4), Article X of the Constitution of this State, the General Assembly allocates on an annual basis sufficient tax revenues to provide for the punctual payment of the principal and interest on the debt authorized by this chapter.
Section 11-41-140. Bonds must be sold by the Governor and the State Treasurer upon sealed proposals, after publication of notice of the sale one or more times at least seven days before the sale, in a financial paper published in New York City which regularly publishes notices of sale of state or municipal bonds. The bonds may be awarded upon the terms and in the manner as prescribed by the State Treasurer. The right is reserved to reject all bids and to readvertise the bonds for sale. For the purpose of bringing about successful sales of the bonds, the State Treasurer may do all things ordinarily and customarily done in connection with the sale of state or municipal bonds. All expenses incident to the sale of the bonds must be paid from the proceeds of the sale of the bonds.
Section 11-41-150. The proceeds of the sale of bonds must be received by the State Treasurer and applied by him to the purposes for which issued, except that the accrued interest, if any, may be used to discharge in part the first interest to become due on the bonds, and the premium, if any, must be used to discharge the payment of the first installment of principal to become due on the bonds, but the purchasers of the bonds in no way are liable for the proper application of the proceeds to the purposes for which they are intended.
Section 11-41-160. It is lawful for all executors, administrators, guardians, and other fiduciaries to invest any monies in their hands in bonds issued pursuant to this chapter.
Section 11-41-170. The proceeds received from the issuance of bonds, after deducting the costs of issuance, must be expended only for the purpose of providing infrastructure."
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
The question then was the third reading of the Bill.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
AYES
Alexander Anderson Bauer Branton Courson Drummond Elliott Fair Ford Giese Glover Gregory Grooms Hawkins Hayes Holland Hutto Jackson Kuhn Land Leatherman Leventis Martin Matthews McConnell McGill Mescher Moore O'Dell Patterson Peeler Pinckney Rankin Ravenel Reese Richardson Ritchie Ryberg Setzler Short Smith, J. Verne Thomas Verdin Waldrep
The Bill was read the third time, passed 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. 1205 (Word version) -- Senator Peeler: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 587 OF 1992, RELATING TO THE DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF CHEROKEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 1 ARE TO BE ELECTED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING WITH THE GENERAL ELECTION IN 2002, MEMBERS MUST BE ELECTED FROM THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AT-LARGE.
The following Bills and Joint Resolutions, having been read the second time, were ordered placed on the third reading Calendar:
S. 1223 (Word version) -- Senator Short: A BILL TO ESTABLISH THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS COMMISSION OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY, TO ABOLISH THE ELECTION COMMISSION AND THE REGISTRATION BOARD FOR FAIRFIELD COUNTY AND DEVOLVE THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION AND THE REGISTRATION BOARD UPON THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS COMMISSION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE FAIRFIELD COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION AND THE FAIRFIELD COUNTY REGISTRATION BOARD SHALL ACT AS THE GOVERNING COMMISSION OF THE NEW FAIRFIELD COUNTY REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS COMMISSION UNTIL THE MEMBERS OF THE NEW COMMISSION ARE APPOINTED, AT WHICH TIME THE TERMS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION AND REGISTRATION BOARD SHALL EXPIRE.
On motion of Senator SHORT, with unanimous consent, S. 1223 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, April 18, 2002.
S. 1157 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT STUDENTS WHO RESIDE IN AND ATTEND A PUBLIC SCHOOL IN OCONEE COUNTY AND WHO PARTICIPATE IN INTERSCHOLASTIC SOCCER OR AS A MEMBER OF A SCHOOL SOCCER SQUAD MAY PARTICIPATE IN ORGANIZED SOCCER THAT IS INDEPENDENT OF THE CONTROL OF THE SCHOOL UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A SCHOOL OR STUDENT IN THOSE SCHOOLS IS ELIGIBLE FOR PARTICIPATION IN INTERSCHOLASTIC SOCCER IN SPITE OF THE PARTICIPATION OF THE STUDENT OF THE SCHOOL AS A MEMBER OF AN ORGANIZED SOCCER TEAM INDEPENDENT OF THE SCHOOL'S CONTROL.
Senator ALEXANDER explained the Bill.
On motion of Senator ALEXANDER, with unanimous consent, S. 1157 was ordered to receive a third reading on Thursday, April 18, 2002.
S. 1221 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, RELATING TO VITAL STATISTICS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2719, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
S. 1222 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, RELATING TO RETAIL FOOD ESTABLISHMENT INSPECTION FEES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2672, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
S. 714 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-11-720, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ENTITIES WHOSE EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR STATE HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CHARLESTON COUNTY AIRPORT DISTRICT.
S. 1133 (Word version) -- Senator Moore: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A COMMITTEE TO STUDY CERTAIN ISSUES AFFECTING VETERANS AND PROVIDE FOR RELATED MATTERS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP AND DUTIES, THE FILLING OF VACANCIES, AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND STAFFING.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Joint Resolution, the question being the second reading of the Joint Resolution.
Senator RICHARDSON proposed the following amendment (NBD\11607AC02), which was adopted:
Amend the resolution, as and if amended, by deleting SECTION 3 and inserting:
/SECTION 3. The committee shall submit a written report of its findings and recommendations to both houses of the General Assembly and to the Governor not later than June 1, 2004. Upon presenting the written report in accordance with the provisions of this section, the committee is dissolved./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator RICHARDSON explained 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.
THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE INTERRUPTED DEBATE.
H. 3289 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Wilkins, Harrison, Kelley, Barrett, Chellis, Coates, Cooper, Harrell, Hinson, Rice, Sandifer, Sharpe, W.D. Smith, Thompson, Trotter, White, A. Young, Campsen, Bingham, Altman and Edge: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 1, TITLE 6, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-130 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE FROM ESTABLISHING, MANDATING, OR OTHERWISE REQUIRING A MINIMUM WAGE THAT EXCEEDS THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE SET PURSUANT TO 29 U.S.C. 206.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the third reading of the Bill.
Senator JACKSON argued contra to the third reading of the Bill.
At 3:27 P.M., Senator HAYES assumed the Chair.
Senator JACKSON argued contra to the third reading of the Bill.
Senator HUTTO argued contra to the third reading of the Bill.
At 3:51 P.M., with Senator HUTTO retaining the floor, on motion of Senator MOORE, with unanimous consent, the Senate receded from business not to exceed two minutes.
At 3:52 P.M., the Senate resumed.
Senator HUTTO continued arguing contra to the third reading of the Bill.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, debate was interrupted by adjournment, with Senator HUTTO retaining the floor.
On motion of Senator GROOMS, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Robert Quattlebaum of Pineville, S.C.
At 3:53 P.M., on motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 12:00 Noon.
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