Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 12:00 Noon, the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

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

Beloved, hear the words of Isaiah 18:4:

"For thus the Lord said to me, 'I will quietly look from my dwelling (Zion) like clear heat in sunshine, like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest'."
Let us pray.

Father, we thank You for the democracy of the sunshine. It shines with equal radiance through the open windows of the cottages of the poor as it does through the velvet-draped windows of the palaces of the rich. It falls just as benevolently upon the modest violet as upon the thorny cactus.

We know that it is our response, O Lord, and what we do with your blessings that make the difference between the sinner and the saint.

Help us respond, today, to the call of conscience, Your voice within us, lest we lose sight of our heavenly vision... in this place.
Amen.

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

The following appointment was transmitted by the Honorable Mark C. Sanford:

Initial Appointment, Director, Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, with term coterminous with Governor

Chandler C. Prosser, 697 Wedgewood Drive, Murrells Inlet, S.C. 29576 VICE John K. Durst

Referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Senator KUHN introduced Dr. William Simpson of Charleston, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

At 12:30 P.M., Senator WALDREP requested a leave of absence until 10:00 P.M. tonight.

Senator RICHARDSON rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

H. 3670 (Word version) -- Reps. Lucas, Neilson and J. Hines: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT THE SCHOOL DAY MISSED ON FEBRUARY 17, 2003, BY THE STUDENTS OF A SCHOOL IN THE DARLINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT WHEN THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED DUE TO SNOW, ICE, OR INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS IS EXEMPTED FROM THE MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT OF THE DEFINED MINIMUM PLAN THAT FULL SCHOOL DAYS MISSED DUE TO EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES BE MADE UP.

Senator MALLOY asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Joint Resolution from the Committee on Education.

There was no objection.

Senator MALLOY asked unanimous consent to place the Resolution on the Calendar.

There was no objection.

S. 487 (Word version) -- Senator Waldrep: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-90, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SALES AND USE TAX ACT, SO AS TO EXCLUDE THE ENVIRONMENTAL SURCHARGE IMPOSED PURSUANT TO SECTION 44-56-430 FROM THE DEFINITION OF "GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES"; TO AMEND SECTION 44-56-430, RELATING TO THE DRYCLEANING FACILITY RESTORATION TRUST FUND, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CALCULATION, ADMINISTRATION, COLLECTION, AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL SURCHARGE; TO AMEND SECTION 44-56-470, RELATING TO THE ANNUAL REGISTRATION AND FEES FOR DRYCLEANING FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE'S RETENTION OF FUNDS FOR COSTS INCURRED TO COLLECT AND ENFORCE THE DRYCLEANING FACILITY RESTORATION TRUST FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 44-56-480, RELATING TO THE SURCHARGE ON PERCHLOROETHYLENE (TETRACHLOROETHYLENE) AND STODDARD SOLVENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE MUST ADMINISTER, COLLECT, AND ENFORCE THE SURCHARGE IN THE MANNER THAT SALES AND USE TAXES ARE ADMINISTERED, COLLECTED, AND ENFORCED UNDER CHAPTER 36 OF TITLE 12; AND TO AMEND SECTION 44-56-485, RELATING TO THE ELECTION TO PLACE A DRYCLEANING FACILITY UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 4, CHAPTER 56 OF TITLE 44, SO AS TO ADD PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO THE EFFECT OF VOLUNTARY REGISTRATION ON A DRYCLEANING FACILITY'S LIABILITY FOR THE PAYMENT OF CERTAIN TAXES, FEES, PENALTIES, AND INTEREST.

Senator WALDREP 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 on Finance.

Senator WALDREP asked unanimous consent to commit the Bill to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

There was no objection.

The Bill was committed to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

H. 3775 (Word version) -- Reps. M. Hines, Jennings, Lee, Hayes, Scott, Anthony, Lucas, Delleney, G.M. Smith, Weeks, Gourdine, J.M. Neal, McLeod, W.D. Smith, Bales, Barfield, Battle, Branham, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Clark, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Emory, Freeman, Gilham, Hamilton, Leach, Lloyd, Mack, McGee, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Parks, Snow and Vaughn: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE GRATITUDE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANT INFLUENCES OF THESE WOMEN IN THE EVERYDAY LIVES OF ALL CITIZENS OF THIS STATE AND COUNTRY BY NAMING MARCH 20, 2003, "NOTABLE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN'S DAY" AS A PART OF THE OBSERVANCE OF WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH.

Senator MESCHER asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the General Committee.

There was no objection.

Senators MESCHER and GLOVER asked unanimous consent to adopt the Resolution.

There was no objection.

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

The following were introduced:

S. 489 (Word version) -- Senators Ravenel and McGill: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-940, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON OTHER THAN A TRUSTEE, EMPLOYEE, OR AGENT OF THE FOUNDATION OR A PERSON AUTHORIZED BY THE FOUNDATION TO TRAP, HUNT, MOLEST, OR ATTEMPT TO MOLEST A BIRD, WILD FOWL, OR GAME, INCLUDING WILD HOGS, WITHIN THE REFUGE, OR TO TRESPASS IN ANY MANNER UPON THE PROPERTY OF THE BELLE W. BARUCH FOUNDATION FOR THAT PURPOSE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 490 (Word version) -- Senator Ritchie: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS NOT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO OWN, POSSESS, OR USE AN OBJECT OR ITEM OF TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY FOR A LAWFUL PURPOSE UNLESS IT IS UNLAWFUL TO GROW, PRODUCE, MANUFACTURE, PACKAGE, SHIP, DISTRIBUTE, OR SELL THE OBJECT OR ITEM, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON MAY NOT BE CONVICTED OF A CRIMINAL OFFENSE BASED SOLELY UPON OWNERSHIP OR POSSESSION OF AN ITEM OF TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY UNLESS IT IS UNLAWFUL TO GROW, PRODUCE, MANUFACTURE, PACKAGE, SHIP, DISTRIBUTE, SELL, USE, OR CONSUME THE ITEM FOR ITS INTENDED PURPOSE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 491 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 3 OF TITLE 16, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO STALKING AND HARASSMENT, SO AS TO REDEFINE STALKING AND HARASSMENT; TO CLARIFY PENALTIES FOR STALKING AND HARASSMENT; TO REQUIRE THAT, WHEN A RESTRAINING ORDER IS ISSUED AS A CONDITION OF BOND FOR HARASSMENT OR STALKING, A COPY OF THE RESTRAINING ORDER MUST BE SENT BY THE COURT TO THE VICTIM; TO PROVIDE THAT A TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER GRANTED WITHOUT NOTICE MUST BE ENTERED OF RECORD WITH THE MAGISTRATES COURT; TO ALLOW SERVICE OF A RESTRAINING ORDER TO BE MADE BY MAIL RETURN RECEIPT TO DEFENDANT'S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS; TO REQUIRE THAT A MENTAL EVALUATION MUST BE MADE BEFORE BAIL IS SET ON A STALKING OR HARASSMENT CHARGE; AND FURTHER TO REQUIRE THAT THE EVALUATION BE SCHEDULED WITHIN TEN DAYS OF THE ORDER'S ISSUANCE, THAT THE REPORT BE ISSUED WITHIN FORTY-EIGHT HOURS OF EVALUATION, AND THAT THE SOLICITOR ARRANGE FOR A BOND HEARING UPON RECEIPT OF THE REPORT BEFORE A CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 492 (Word version) -- Senators Moore, Setzler, Drummond and Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-30, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LOBBYISTS' REPORTING OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-35, RELATING TO LOBBYISTS' PRINCIPALS' REPORTING OF LOBBYING EXPENDITURES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-40, RELATING TO THE STATE AGENCY OR DEPARTMENT REPORT OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TIME FOR FILING THE REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-90, RELATING TO ACTS PROHIBITED OF LOBBYISTS' PRINCIPALS, ACTS PROHIBITED OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES, EXCEPTIONS, AND DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXCLUDE CABINET OFFICERS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-100, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN THE ETHICS, GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CAMPAIGN REFORM ACT, SO AS TO DELETE BALLOT MEASURE FROM THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTION"; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-320, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A NOTICE OF WAIVER BE FORWARDED TO THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION AFTER A COMPLAINT HAS BEEN DISMISSED WHEN IT DOES NOT ALLEGE FACTS SUFFICIENT TO CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION; TO ADD SECTION 8-13-365, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION MUST ESTABLISH A SYSTEM OF ELECTRONIC FILING FOR DISCLOSURES AND REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-530, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ETHICS COMMITTEES, SO AS TO INCLUDE LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS COMMITTEES WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF A COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1300, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROVISIONS RELATING TO CAMPAIGN PRACTICES, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "COMMITTEE" TO INCLUDE AN INDIVIDUAL WHO, TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF AN ELECTIVE OFFICE, MAKES INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES AGGREGATING FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS OR MORE DURING AN ELECTION CYCLE, TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "ELECTION" TO DELETE BALLOT MEASURE WITHIN ITS DEFINITION, TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURE" TO INCLUDE AN EXPENDITURE MADE UPON CONSULTATION WITH A COMMITTEE OR AGENT OF A COMMITTEE OR A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE OR AN AGENT OF A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE, BY DEFINING "BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE" AND "INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF AN ELECTIVE OFFICE"; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1302, RELATING TO MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS OF CONTRIBUTIONS BY A CANDIDATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1304, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT COMMITTEES RECEIVING AND SPENDING FUNDS MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WHICH RECEIVES OR EXPENDS MORE THAN TWO THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS IN THE AGGREGATE DURING AN ELECTION CYCLE TO INFLUENCE THE OUTCOME OF A BALLOT MEASURE TO FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION AND DELETE THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE STATEMENT TO BE FILED BY A COMMITTEE WHICH RECEIVES OR EXPENDS MORE THAN FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1306, RELATING TO THE CONTENTS OF A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WHERE APPLICABLE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1308, RELATING TO THE FILING OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS BY CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE MAKING OF INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES WITHIN THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1309, SO AS TO REQUIRE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE REQUIRED TO FILE A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION MUST FILE AN INITIAL CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORT WHEN IT RECEIVES OR EXPENDS CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS TOTALING CERTAIN SPECIFIED AMOUNTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1310, RELATING TO THE RECIPIENTS OF CERTAIN CAMPAIGN REPORTS AND COPIES OF THEM AND THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION REVIEW, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT TO SEND CAMPAIGN REPORTS TO THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1314, RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION LIMITS AND RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE CONTRIBUTION LIMITATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1316, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED FROM POLITICAL PARTIES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A POLITICAL PARTY FROM RECEIVING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH ITS PARTY COMMITTEES OR LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS COMMITTEES WHICH TOTAL CERTAIN AGGREGATE AMOUNTS AND PROVIDE THAT A CONTRIBUTION GIVEN IN VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION MAY NOT BE KEPT BY THE RECIPIENT BUT WITHIN TEN DAYS MUST BE REMITTED TO THE CHILDREN'S TRUST FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1322, RELATING TO DOLLAR LIMITS ON CONTRIBUTIONS TO BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE SHALL NOT ACCEPT FROM A PERSON, AND A PERSON SHALL NOT GIVE TO A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE, CONTRIBUTIONS AGGREGATING MORE THAN ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS IN A CALENDAR YEAR, AND TO PROVIDE THAT NO CONTRIBUTION MAY BE MADE TO A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE BY A REGISTERED LOBBYIST; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1324, RELATING TO ANONYMOUS CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THESE CONTRIBUTIONS TO A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1332, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONTRIBUTIONS AND EXPENDITURES, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE AS WELL AS A COMMITTEE AND DELETE FROM THE PROHIBITION AN ORGANIZATION OR COMMITTEE OF AN ORGANIZATION TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ORGANIZATION COMMITTEE FROM A PERSON OTHER THAN ITS MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1333 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS AND COMMITTEES FORMED BY NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1348, RELATING TO THE USE OF CAMPAIGN FUNDS FOR PERSONAL EXPENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE MAY USE CAMPAIGN FUNDS TO DEFRAY PERSONAL EXPENSES WHICH ARE UNRELATED TO THE CAMPAIGN; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1366, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AS A LOCATION OF THESE REPORTS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1368, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF CAMPAIGN FILING REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEES WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1370, RELATING TO THE USE OF UNEXPENDED CONTRIBUTIONS BY A CANDIDATE AFTER AN ELECTION, SO AS TO INCLUDE A BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE WITHIN THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1372, RELATING TO TECHNICAL VIOLATIONS OF RULES ON CAMPAIGN REPORTS, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION FOR THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AS THE AGENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR DETERMINING ERRORS OR OMISSIONS ON CAMPAIGN REPORTS; TO ADD SECTION 8-13-1373, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD, USING FUNDS APPROPRIATED TO IT, MUST DEFEND ANY ACTION BROUGHT AGAINST THE STATE OR ITS POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 13 OF TITLE 8, IN CASES WHERE THE ATTORNEY GENERAL REFUSES TO DEFEND SUCH ACTION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1510, RELATING TO THE PENALTY FOR LATE FILING OF OR FAILURE TO FILE A REPORT OR STATEMENT, SO AS TO DELETE THE FIVE HUNDRED DOLLAR MAXIMUM FINE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1520, RELATING TO A VIOLATION OF CHAPTER 13 OF TITLE 8, SO AS TO MAKE CERTAIN VIOLATIONS OF ARTICLE 13 OF CHAPTER 8 A MISDEMEANOR AND PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
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Senator MOORE spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 493 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 44 OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 131 TO ESTABLISH THE PHARMACY AND THERAPEUTICS COMMITTEE WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP, ORGANIZATION, AND DUTIES OF THE COMMITTEE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES SHALL ADHERE TO CERTAIN PROVISIONS WHEN IMPLEMENTING THE PREFERRED DRUG LIST.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 494 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE DREHER HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM ON WINNING THE 2003 CLASS AAA STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP, TO COMMEND THE LADY BLUE DEVILS FOR THE HARD WORK, COMPETITIVE SPIRIT, AND TEAMWORK IT TOOK TO BECOME A CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM, AND TO WISH THEM EVERY SUCCESS IN THEIR ACADEMIC AND ATHLETIC CAREERS AND IN ALL OF THEIR FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

Senator MESCHER from the General Committee polled out H. 3172 favorable:

H. 3172 (Word version) -- Reps. Altman, Littlejohn and Hinson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES TO REMEMBER THAT FEDERAL JUDGES ARE NOT APPOINTED FOR LIFE, BUT PURSUANT TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION ARE APPOINTED DURING "GOOD BEHAVIOR".

Mescher                   Holland                   McConnell
Patterson                 McGill                    O'Dell
Thomas                    Hayes                     Elliott
Martin                    Ryberg                    Alexander
Richardson                Hawkins

Short

Leventis                  Reese

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

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

S. 225 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2940, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PENALTIES FOR OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF INTOXICATING LIQUOR, DRUGS, OR NARCOTICS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VIOLATION OF SECTION 56-5-2930 OR SECTION 56-5-2933 CONSTITUTES A PRIOR OFFENSE FOR PURPOSES OF DETERMINING SUBSEQUENT VIOLATIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 56-5-2940.

S. 299 (Word version) -- Senator Richardson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 6-1-920, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN THE "SOUTH CAROLINA DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEE ACT", SO AS TO ADD TO THE DEFINITION OF "PUBLIC FACILITIES", PUBLIC PARKING GARAGES OR RELATED FACILITIES.

S. 320 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Branton, Hawkins and Leventis: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE TO FURLOUGH STATE-FUNDED FTE'S DURING FISCAL YEAR 2002-2003 UNDER SPECIFIC CONDITIONS.

S. 360 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 36-9-525, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE FEES CHARGED FOR FILING AND INDEXING CERTAIN RECORDS IN ACCORDANCE WITH TITLE 36 OF THE 1976 CODE, SO AS TO RECALCULATE HOW THE FEE IS ASSESSED.

S. 417 (Word version) -- Senators Martin and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-340, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE FORM OF THE APPLICATION FOR AN ABSENTEE BALLOT, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE APPLICATION CONTAIN THE APPLICANT'S SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER.

S. 479 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, RELATING TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY TRAINING REGULATIONS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2730, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

The following House Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 3163 (Word version) -- Reps. Delleney and Simrill: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 14-1-235 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A JUDGE, COURT, OR COURT OFFICIAL FROM APPOINTING AN ATTORNEY TO REPRESENT A PARTY IN A CIVIL ACTION UNLESS THE AUTHORITY TO MAKE THE APPOINTMENT IS PROVIDED SPECIFICALLY BY LAW.

Having voted on the prevailing side, Senator PATTERSON moved to reconsider the vote whereby the Bill was given a third reading.

There was no objection and third reading was reconsidered.

S. 107 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Ritchie and Ravenel: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 6-4-35, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE TOURISM EXPENDITURE REVIEW COMMITTEE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP FROM NINE TO ELEVEN, BY ADDING ONE MEMBER ON THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA ARTS COMMISSION AND ONE MEMBER AT LARGE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

The Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry proposed the following amendment (S-107 AMENDMENT), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking line 32 and inserting:

/   (4) six eight members appointed by the Governor as follows:/

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RYBERG explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator RYBERG explained the Bill.

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

S. 152 (Word version) -- Senators Leventis and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 45-2-90 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT AN INNKEEPER CONSPICUOUSLY POST TELEPHONE, E-MAIL, ON-LINE, AND FAX RATES CHARGED IN ITS LODGING ESTABLISHMENT.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

The Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry proposed the following amendment (BBM\9518MM03), which was adopted:

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

/ SECTION   1.   Chapter 2 of Title 45 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 45-2-90.   The innkeeper of a lodging establishment shall:

(1)   post in a conspicuous place in the office a notice of the rates charged for local, long-distance, toll-free, and room-to-room telephone calls, electronic mail messages, Internet on-line access, and facsimile transmissions; and

(2)   post in each room of the lodging establishment a notice to contact the front desk for the rates charged for local, long-distance, toll-free, and room-to-room telephone calls, electronic mail messages, Internet on-line access, and facsimile transmission."

SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /

Amend title to conform.

Senator RYBERG explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

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

S. 448 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Ford and Pinckney: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-82-240, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LIQUID PETROLEUM GAS DEALER STORAGE CAPACITY REQUIREMENTS SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A DEALER MUST HAVE OR HAVE ACCESS TO FACILITIES WITH A CAPACITY OF A MINIMUM 30,000 WATER GALLONS WITHIN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE AREA TO BE SERVED AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION REQUIRING LEASED STORAGE CAPACITY TO BE DEDICATED TO THE EXCLUSIVE USE OF THE LESSEE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

The Labor Commerce and Industry Committee proposed the following amendment (NBD\11402AC03), which was adopted:

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

/SECTION   1.   Section 40-82-240 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 40-82-240.   (A)   A dealer conducting business in the State:

(1)   must have or have access to facilities with a storage capacity of a minimum of 30,000 water gallons located within close proximity to the area to be served;

(2)   whose headquarters are outside of the State, must have storage capacity located in the State within close proximity to the area served in the State.

(B)   The board may waive the minimum bulk storage facility requirement of subsection (A).

(C)   If the storage capacity required by subsection (A) is leased, the storage capacity must be dedicated to the exclusive use of the lessee and must include separate piping and loading-unloading facilities If a dealer has access to another dealer's facility, for purposes of subsection (A)(1), the dealer must have a written agreement, signed by both parties, stipulating the terms, conditions, and available capacity. A current agreement must be submitted at the time of each license renewal."

SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator McCONNELL explained the committee amendment.

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

On motion of Senator PINCKNEY, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator PINCKNEY was added as a co-sponsor of S. 448.

S. 447 (Word version) -- Senators J. Verne Smith, Alexander, Reese and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 81 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO PLACE THE STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION AND TO CONFORM THIS CHAPTER TO THE STATUTORY ORGANIZATIONAL FRAMEWORK ESTABLISHED FOR PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF VARIOUS ATHLETES AND ATHLETIC EVENTS; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 7, TITLE 52, RELATING TO THE STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION AND TO COUNTY ATHLETIC COMMISSIONS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

The Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry proposed the following amendment (S-447 AMENDMENT1), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, by striking line 6 and inserting:

/   event or exhibition or any fee charged for presenting an   /

Amend further, page 4, by striking line 10 and inserting:

/   holds, or gives a boxing, kickboxing, or wrestling event or   /

Amend further, page 5, by striking lines 27-34 and inserting:

/   Section 40-81-50. (A) There is created the State Athletic Commission consisting of eight members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate to regulate boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, and other combative sports in this State. One member must be appointed from each congressional district of the State and two from the State at-large. One of the at large appointments shall be a physician licensed and in good standing in the State.   /

Amend further, page 10, by striking line 13 and inserting:

/   commission by a supermajority vote waives this requirement as to an   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ALEXANDER explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

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

S. 274 (Word version) -- Senator Leventis: 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 A PRIVATE PASSENGER MOTOR VEHICLE LEASED TO A MEMBER OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES STATIONED IN THIS STATE WHOSE HOME OF RECORD IS IN ANOTHER STATE AND THE LEASED VEHICLE IS TO BE REGISTERED AND LICENSED IN THE STATE OF THE SERVICE MEMBER'S HOME OF RECORD AND TO EXEMPT ALL VEHICLES LEASED BY A PUBLIC BODY IF THE VEHICLE WOULD OTHERWISE BE EXEMPT IF OWNED BY THE PUBLIC BODY.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Finance.

Senate Finance Committee proposed the following amendment (22885HTC03), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding a new penultimate section appropriately numbered to read:

/ SECTION   ____.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the amendment to Section 12-37-220(B)(11) of the 1976 Code, made pursuant to Section 7I, Act 334 of 2002, is effective for property tax years beginning after 2001. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The committee amendment was adopted.

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

H. 3297 (Word version) -- Reps. Huggins and Cotty: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-60-150, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS, RESTRAINING ORDERS, LICENSING, AND PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS FOR REAL ESTATE APPRAISERS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE TIME LIMIT THE BOARD HAS TO RENDER A DECISION AND SERVE NOTICE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

The Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry proposed the following amendment (H-3297 AMENDMENT1), which was adopted:

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

/   SECTION 1. Section 40-60-150(C)(3) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 335 of 2000, is further amended to read:

"(3) The board shall render a decision and shall serve notice, in writing within thirty days, of the board's decision to the applicant or appraiser charged. Upon completion of the hearing, the board shall render a written decision and serve notice to the charged appraiser within one hundred twenty days. The board also shall state in the notice the date the ruling or decision becomes effective.

SECTION 2.   Section 40-60-150 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding at the end and appropriately lettered subsection to read:

"(J) A person whose application for licensure has been refused may appeal the decision of the department. The board shall render a decision and shall serve notice, in writing, to the applicant within thirty days of the Board's decision."   /

  Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The committee amendment was adopted.

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

H. 3718 (Word version) -- Rep. Miller: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE GEORGETOWN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TO BE ELECTED BEGINNING WITH THE 2004 GENERAL ELECTION, FROM THE SEVEN SINGLE MEMBER DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE GEORGETOWN COUNTY COUNCIL ARE ELECTED, TO PROVIDE FOR FOUR-YEAR STAGGERED TERMS FOR THE MEMBERS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE BOARD MEMBERS TO ELECT ONE MEMBER TO SERVE AS CHAIRMAN FOR A TERM OF TWO YEARS, TO TERMINATE THE TERMS OF CURRENT TRUSTEES WHEN THEIR SUCCESSORS ELECTED PURSUANT TO THIS ACT TAKE OFFICE, AND TO REPEAL ACT 592 OF 1994, RELATING TO THE METHOD OF ELECTION OF THE TRUSTEES OF THE GEORGETOWN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT.

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

Senator RAVENEL moved to lay the Bill on the table.

Pursuant to the provisions of Rule 51 (weighted vote shown in parentheses below), the "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ravenel (53.69) 

McGill (46.31)            

By a weighted vote of 53.69 to 46.31, the Bill was tabled.

I voted "no" on tabling H. 3718, Rep. Miller's Bill, because I feel this Bill should be continued so that the local Georgetown School District can present their recommendations on said Bill, H. 3718. Geographic and minority representation are a community concern, along with being fiscally responsible, and providing the best educational opportunities for our children.

H. 3208 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins, Harrison, Altman, Stille, Bailey, Walker, Sandifer, Young, Keegan, Simrill, Witherspoon, Littlejohn, Richardson, Kirsh, Taylor, Delleney, Ceips, McLeod, J.E. Smith, Bingham, Toole, Duncan, Mahaffey, Hinson, Viers, White and Owens: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 13-1-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MONIES CONSTITUTING A FUND OF ANY KIND USED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, REGARDLESS OF THEIR SOURCE, ARE PUBLIC MONIES SUBJECT TO ALL ACCOUNTABILITY AND DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS GOVERNING PUBLIC MONIES AND TO REQUIRE AN ANNUAL REPORT OF ALL EXPENDITURES TO THE GOVERNOR AND THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY; TO AMEND SECTION 13-1-1720, RELATING TO THE PURPOSE AND DUTIES OF THE COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FUNDS FROM FOUNDATION GRANTS AND PRIVATE FUNDS USED BY THE COUNCIL TO ENHANCE ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT ARE PUBLIC MONIES SUBJECT TO ALL ACCOUNTABILITY AND DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS GOVERNING PUBLIC MONIES UNLESS OTHERWISE EXEMPTED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 30-4-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO INFORMATION EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A DOCUMENT REFLECTING THE FINAL FINANCIAL COMMITMENT BY A PUBLIC BODY IS A COVERED DOCUMENT OF, OR INCIDENTAL TO, A PROPOSED CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENT AND A PROPOSED SALE OR PURCHASE OF PROPERTY AND THEREFORE SUBJECT TO DISCLOSURE AS PRESCRIBED, THAT A CONTRACT RELATED TO EFFORTS OR ACTIVITIES OF A PUBLIC BODY TO ATTRACT OR RETAIN BUSINESS OR INDUSTRY TO INVEST IN THIS STATE IS EXEMPT ONLY UNTIL THE BUSINESS OR INDUSTRY PUBLICLY ANNOUNCES ITS PROJECT OR THE COUNCIL EXECUTES A FINAL CONTRACT, AND THAT DOCUMENTATION OF EFFORTS OR ACTIVITIES OF A PUBLIC BODY OR ONE ACTING FOR A PUBLIC BODY TO ATTRACT OR RETAIN BUSINESS OR INDUSTRY TO INVEST WITHIN SOUTH CAROLINA IS EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNLESS THE DOCUMENTS RELATE TO THE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT BY A PUBLIC BODY, WHICH DOCUMENTATION LOSES ITS EXEMPTION ONCE THE BUSINESS OR INDUSTRY HAS PUBLICLY ANNOUNCED ITS PROJECT OR THE COUNCIL HAS EXECUTED A FINAL CONTRACT.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

Senator ALEXANDER spoke on the committee amendment.

Senator RYBERG objected to further consideration of the Bill.

THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE INTERRUPTED DEBATE.

S. 438 (Word version) -- Banking and Insurance Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF TITLE 37, RELATING TO CONSUMER PROTECTION AND BY ADDING CHAPTER 23 TO TITLE 37, SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA HIGH-COST AND CONSUMER HOME LOANS ACT, TO PROVIDE THAT A VIOLATION OF THE HIGH-COST HOME LOAN ACT IS AN UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICE PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 5 OF TITLE 39, AND TO PROVIDE FOR REMEDIES AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE HIGH-COST HOME LOAN ACT. (ABBREVIATED TITLE)

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of Amendment No. 9 (438-HUTTO) proposed by Senator HUTTO and previously printed in the Journal of Thursday, March 13, 2003. The amendment was subsequently withdrawn.

Senator HUTTO was recognized.

With Senator HUTTO retaining the floor, Senator MARTIN asked unanimous consent to make a motion that the Bill be given a second reading with notice of general amendments on third, carrying over all amendments to third reading, and placing the Bill in the status of Interrupted Debate.

Senator RYBERG objected.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 9 was withdrawn.

Senator FAIR proposed the following Amendment No. 12 (438R003.MLF), which was carried over:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 6, lines 32-37, by deleting subsection (e) in its entirety.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 6, by adding after line 28 an appropriately roman numeral lettered subsection to

read:

/   ( )   premiums or other charges paid at or before closing for credit life, accident, health, or loss-of-income insurance or debt-cancellation coverage that provides for cancellation of all or part of the consumer's liability in the event of the loss of life, health, or income or in the case of accident and written in connection with the credit transaction.     /   Amend the bill further, page 10, after line 33, by adding an appropriately numbered subsection to read:

/     ( )   make a high-cost home loan that includes credit insurance unless the lender or a mortgage broker has given the following notice, or substantially similar notice, in writing to the borrower within a reasonable time after election to purchase credit insurance, but not later than the time the notice is required pursuant to 12 CFR 226.31(c), as amended. A lender or broker has met its obligation to provide this disclosure if the borrower provides the lender or broker with a signed acknowledgement of receipt of a copy of the following notice:

You are not required to complete this agreement merely because you have received these disclosures regarding optional credit insurance or have signed a loan application.

If you obtain this loan, the lender will have a mortgage on your home.

YOU COULD LOSE YOUR HOME, AND ANY MONEY YOU HAVE PUT INTO IT, IF YOU DO NOT MEET YOUR OBLIGATIONS UNDER THIS LOAN.

You are not required to purchase credit life, accident, health or loss-of-income credit insurance in order to obtain your loan. Your loan includes credit insurance premiums totaling $________.

You have the right to cancel any credit insurance policy included in your loan and have the premiums paid by you or your loan refunded to you or credited to your loan in accordance with the laws of South Carolina when you send a written notice to the insurer within thirty (30) days from the date you receive your credit insurance policy or certificate.'     /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 13, lines 5-9, by striking subsection (A) of Section 37-23-70 in its entirety.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator FAIR explained the amendment.

Senator FAIR asked unanimous consent to carry over Amendment No. 12.

There was no objection and Amendment No. 12 was carried over.

Senator HAYES asked unanimous consent to take up Amendment No. 18A for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

Senators HAYES and THOMAS proposed the following Amendment No. 18A (438R008.RWH), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 37-23-50, as found in SECTION 1, beginning on page 11 by deleting subsections (A) and (B) and inserting the following:

/   (A)   If a lender, or party charged with a violation, when making a high-cost home loan violates the provisions of this article, the borrower has a right in action, other than a class action, to recover from the lender or party charged with the violation, a penalty in an amount determined by the court of not less than one thousand five hundred dollars and not more than seven thousand five hundred dollars for each loan transaction. A borrower may not bring an action for a violation of this article more than six years after the violation occurred. This subsection does not bar a borrower from asserting a violation of this article in an action to collect a debt if the action is brought more than six years from the date of the occurrence of the violation as a matter of defense by recoupment or set-off in such action; and

(B)(1)   If the court finds, as a matter of law, that the agreement or transaction violated the provisions of this article at the time it was made, the court may, in an action other than a class action:

(a)   refuse to enforce the agreement, or a term, or part of the agreement or transaction that the court determines to have been unlawful at the time it was made;

(b)   enforce the remainder of the agreement without the unlawful term or part or limit the application of the unlawful term or part to avoid an unlawful result;

(c)   rewrite or modify the agreement to eliminate an unlawful term, part, or result and enforce the new agreement; or

(d)   award:

(i)   not more than the total amount of the loan finance charge and allow repayment of the unpaid balance of the loan without any finance charge;

(ii)   not more than double the amount of the excess loan finance charge or other charges or fees actually received by the creditor or paid by the debtor to a third party.

(2)   An action pursuant to this subsection may not be brought after the original scheduled maturity date of the debt.

(C)   In an action in which it is found that a lender or party charged with a violation has violated this chapter, the court shall award to the borrower the costs of the action and to his attorney his reasonable fees. In determining the attorney's fees, the amount of the recovery on behalf of the borrower is not controlling.

(D)   This article establishes specific consumer protections in consumer home loans in addition to other consumer protections that may be otherwise available by law. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HAYES explained the amendment.

Senator HAYES moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator HAYES asked unanimous consent to take up Amendment No. 19B for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

Senators HAYES and THOMAS proposed the following Amendment No. 19B (438R009.RWH), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 37-23-70, SECTION 1, page 15, beginning on line 1, by deleting subsections (F) and (G) in their entirety and inserting:

/   (F)   The making of a consumer home loan that violates this section is a violation of the provisions of this article and the borrower has a right in action, other than a class action, to recover from the lender or party charged with the violation, a penalty in an amount determined by the court of not less than one thousand five hundred dollars and not more than seven thousand five hundred dollars. A borrower may not bring a class action for a violation of this article. A borrower may not bring an action for a violation of this article more than six years after the violation occurred. This subsection does not bar a borrower from asserting a violation of this article in an action to collect a debt if the action is brought more than six years from the date of the occurrence of the violation as a matter of defense by recoupment or set-off in the action.

(G)(1)   If the court finds, as a matter of law, that the agreement or transaction violated the provisions of this article at the time it was made, the court may, in an action other than a class action:

(a)   refuse to enforce the agreement, or a term, or part of the agreement or transaction that the court determines to have been unlawful at the time it was made;

(b)   enforce the remainder of the agreement without the unlawful term or part or limit the application of the unlawful term or part to avoid an unlawful result;

(c)   rewrite or modify the agreement to eliminate an unlawful term, part, or result and enforce the new agreement; or

(d)   award either one of the following:

(i)   not more than the total amount of the loan finance charge and allow repayment of the unpaid balance of the loan without any finance charge; or

(ii)   not more than double the amount of the excess loan finance charge or other charges or fees actually received by the creditor or paid by the debtor to a third party.

(2)   An action pursuant to this subsection may not be brought after the original scheduled maturity date of the debt.

(H)   In an action in which it is found that a lender has violated this chapter, the court shall award to the borrower the costs of the action and to his attorney his reasonable fees. In determining the attorney's fees, the amount of the recovery on behalf of the debtor is not controlling.

(I)   This article establishes specific consumer protections in consumer home loans in addition to consumer protections that may be otherwise available by law.

(J)   The Administrator of the Department of Consumer Affairs, the Attorney General, the Commissioner of Banking, or a party to a consumer home loan may enforce the provisions of this article. The penalties and remedies provided in this article are in addition to and cumulative of penalties and remedies available pursuant to other provisions of law. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HAYES explained the amendment.

Senator HAYES moved that the amendment be adopted.

The amendment was adopted.

At 1:20 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate receded from business not to exceed five minutes.

At 1:28 P.M., the Senate resumed.

Senator THOMAS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to give the Bill a second reading with notice of general amendments on third reading, carrying over all amendments to third reading and not to take up the Bill for consideration before Wednesday, March 26, 2003.

There was no objection and the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading with notice of general amendments, carrying over all amendments to third reading and not to take up the Bill for consideration before Wednesday, March 26, 2003.

At 1:29 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 2:00 P.M.

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