Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

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

Beloved, hear St. Matthew 5:13-14. After Jesus gave the BEATITUDES, He said to the believers:

"You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden."
Let us pray.

Father, we daily sense the responsibility of our decisions in this Chamber, the consequences of which go out to our cities, towns and countrysides of our beloved State.

As we express our own ideas and take our personal positions on issues, we know there are times when we may differ with each other or not fully understand each other. Help us to listen to each other and perhaps, we may learn from each other, for no other reason than that we prayed together.

"Teach me Your way, O Lord,

Lead me in a straight path (a smooth path)"!
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:

Reappointment, Anderson-Oconee County Master-in-Equity, with term to commence June 30, 2004, and to expire June 30, 2010

Ellis B. Drew, Jr., Office of Master-in-Equity, P. O. Box 8002, Anderson, S.C. 29622

Senator GIESE introduced Dr. Leo Walker of Columbia, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Senator ALEXANDER rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

H. 4709 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey and Chellis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-21-4070, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT FOR ANY BINGO LICENSE TO BE ISSUED THE ORGANIZATION, PROMOTER, OR INDIVIDUAL MUST HAVE BEEN DOMICILED IN THIS STATE FOR AT LEAST THREE YEARS OR, IN THE CASE OF AN ORGANIZATION, TO HAVE BEEN ACTIVE IN THIS STATE FOR AT LEAST THREE YEARS, SO AS TO REDUCE THE MINIMUM TIME FOR AN ORGANIZATION TO HAVE BEEN ACTIVE IN THIS STATE FROM AT LEAST THREE TO AT LEAST TWO YEARS.

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

There was no objection and the Bill was ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

The following were introduced:

S. 1014 (Word version) -- Senators Drummond, Alexander, Anderson, Branton, Courson, Cromer, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Giese, Glover, Gregory, Grooms, Hawkins, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Knotts, Kuhn, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Malloy, Martin, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Mescher, Moore, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Ravenel, Reese, Richardson, Ritchie, Ryberg, Setzler, Sheheen, Short, J. Verne Smith, Thomas, Verdin and Waldrep: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE SINCERE CONDOLENCES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE TO THE FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS OF THE LATE EDGAR L. MCGOWAN OF COLUMBIA.
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Whereas, Edgar L. McGowan of Columbia, South Carolina, faithfully served his country during World War II as a member of the United States Army in combat zones throughout the European Theater of Operations; and

Whereas, at the conclusion of the war, he returned to his home State and earned Bachelor of Science, Master of Accounting, and Juris Doctorate degrees from the University of South Carolina; and

Whereas, because of his interest in education and young people, Mr. McGowan taught accounting to thousands of students during a twenty-five year career as an instructor, adjunct professor, and associate professor at the University of South Carolina School of Business from 1946 to 1971; and

Whereas, serving with distinction as South Carolina Commissioner of Labor from February 7, 1971, to June 30, 1989, Mr. McGowan worked with Governors John C. West, James B. Edwards, Richard W. Riley, and Carroll A. Campbell, Jr.; and

Whereas, successful in securing passage by the state legislature of the South Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Act in 1971, the first in the nation, Mr. McGowan led South Carolina in becoming the first State to receive authorization from the United States Department of Labor to operate a state OSHA program; and

Whereas, in 1973, Mr. McGowan established a Division of Labor - Management Services in the State Department of Labor to conciliate employer-employee disputes with fairness for both parties, the first and only program of its kind in the nation and hailed by "Harvard Business Review" in 1985 as a model for other states to follow; and

Whereas, working for and attaining legislation in 1985 requiring inspection and licensing of elevators and amusement rides by the State Department of Labor, Mr. McGowan also supported the successful passage of legislation strengthening payment of wages and child labor laws; and

Whereas, in addition to serving as President of the National Association of Governmental Labor Officials, Mr. McGowan also served as Chairman of the Occupational Safety and Health State Plans Association; and

Whereas, upon his retirement in 1989 as State Commissioner of Labor, Mr. McGowan's nineteen-year tenure was hailed as being one of fairness and impartiality and promoted amicable business-labor relations in the State; and

Whereas, following his retirement as Commissioner of Labor, Mr. McGowan continued to promote worker safety and health across the nation as an attorney with the law firm of Constangy, Brooks and Smith; and

Whereas, Mr. McGowan leaves a legacy of forty-five years of public service to the Palmetto State and the nation as well as a lifetime of devotion to his family and friends; and

Whereas, Mr. McGowan is survived by his wife, Mildred Parris McGowan, a son and daughter-in-law, E. Linden and Barbara McGowan, a grandson, Jonathan McGowan, and many other relatives and friends; and

Whereas, Edgar McGowan's life exemplifies the dedication and hard work of South Carolina's treasured public servants and his presence will be sorely missed. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the Senate of the State of South Carolina, by this resolution, express their sincere condolences to the family and many friends of the late Edgar L. McGowan of Columbia.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Edgar L. McGowan.

Senator DRUMMOND spoke on the Resolution.

Senator BRANTON spoke on the Resolution.

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1015 (Word version) -- Senators Anderson, Glover, Ford, Matthews and Patterson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-250 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AT LEAST TWO HOURS OF INSTRUCTION IN AN EXPLANATION OF THE CRIME OF LYNCHING AND THE PENALTIES IN EIGHTH THROUGH TWELFTH GRADES IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF THE STATE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 1016 (Word version) -- Senator McGill: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 50-23-75 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VALID MARINE DEALER'S PERMIT ENTITLES THE MARINE DEALER TO ALLOW A PROSPECTIVE PURCHASER OF A USED WATERCRAFT OR OUTBOARD MOTOR OWNED BY A DEALER OR A PERSON OTHER THAN THE DEALER TO USE THE WATERCRAFT OR MOTOR ON A TRIAL OR DEMONSTRATION BASIS FOR UP TO FORTY-EIGHT HOURS WITHOUT THE REQUIREMENT OF NEW REGISTRATION, NUMBERING, OR TITLING AND TO USE THE WATERCRAFT OR MOTOR AFTER PURCHASE UNTIL NEW REGISTRATION, NUMBERING, AND TITLING IS RECEIVED UNDER SPECIFIED CONDITIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 1017 (Word version) -- Senators Branton, Hutto, Grooms, Alexander, Anderson, Courson, Cromer, Drummond, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Giese, Glover, Gregory, Hawkins, Hayes, Jackson, Knotts, Kuhn, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Malloy, Martin, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Mescher, Moore, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Ravenel, Reese, Richardson, Ritchie, Ryberg, Setzler, Sheheen, Short, J. Verne Smith, Thomas, Verdin and Waldrep: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND WALTER M. BAILEY, JR. FOR HIS DEDICATION TO SERVING THE PEOPLE OF DORCHESTER, ORANGEBURG, AND CALHOUN COUNTIES AND HIS UNWAVERING CONVICTIONS AS SOLICITOR OF THE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

H. 3778 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman, Bailey, Bowers, Ceips, Clark, Clemmons, Duncan, Gilham, Haskins, J. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Lourie, Mahaffey, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. H. Neal, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, Richardson, Rivers, Sandifer, Scarborough, Simrill, Sinclair, Snow, Toole, Umphlett, Vaughn, Viers, White and Whitmire: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1210, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DUTIES OF A DRIVER OF A VEHICLE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT RESULTING IN INJURY TO OR THE DEATH OF A PERSON, SO AS TO DELETE THE PHRASE "IN EVERY EVENT" AS IT REFERS TO INSTANCES IN WHICH A DRIVER INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT SHALL REMAIN AT THE SCENE OF THE ACCIDENT, TO DELETE THE PHRASE "MORE THAN IS NECESSARY" AS IT REFERS TO A DRIVER INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT MAKING A STOP WITHOUT OBSTRUCTING TRAFFIC, AND TO PROVIDE THAT STATE AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES MAY ERECT SIGNS ALONG HIGHWAYS AND STREETS THAT INFORM THE PUBLIC THAT A STOP MADE PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION MUST BE MADE WITHOUT OBSTRUCTING TRAFFIC; AND TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DUTIES OF A DRIVER INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO A VEHICLE WHICH IS DRIVEN OR ATTENDED BY A PERSON, SO AS TO DELETE THE PHRASE "IN EVERY EVENT" AS IT REFERS TO INSTANCES IN WHICH A DRIVER INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO CERTAIN VEHICLES SHALL REMAIN AT THE SCENE OF THE ACCIDENT, TO DELETE THE PHRASE "MORE THAN IS NECESSARY" AS IT REFERS TO A DRIVER INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT MAKING A STOP WITHOUT OBSTRUCTING TRAFFIC, AND PROVIDE THAT STATE AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES MAY ERECT SIGNS ALONG HIGHWAYS AND STREETS THAT INFORM THE PUBLIC THAT A STOP MADE PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION MUST BE MADE WITHOUT OBSTRUCTING TRAFFIC.

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

H. 3858 (Word version) -- Reps. Edge, Harrison, Herbkersman, Duncan and Clemmons: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 29 OF TITLE 6 SO AS TO ENACT THE "VESTED RIGHTS ACT" BY PROVIDING FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF VESTED PROPERTY RIGHTS ALLOWING THE COMMENCEMENT AND COMPLETION OF DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF PROPERTY PURSUANT TO A SITE SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN OR AN APPROVED PHASE DEVELOPMENT PLAN, TO PROVIDE FOR THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACTS AND FACTORS TRIGGERING A VESTED RIGHT, TO LIMIT THE VESTING FOR A TERM OF YEARS, TO PROTECT THE HOLDER OF VESTED RIGHTS FROM ZONING CHANGES UNLESS CERTAIN CONDITIONS ARE MET AND TO PROVIDE THAT A VESTED RIGHT ATTACHES TO AND RUNS WITH THE PROPERTY.

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

H. 4650 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, McLeod and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 9 TO TITLE 33 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PROCEDURES FOR, AND THE LEGAL EFFECT OF, DOMESTICATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA OF A FOREIGN CORPORATION; BY ADDING ARTICLE 14 TO CHAPTER 41 OF TITLE 33 AND ARTICLE 12 TO CHAPTER 42 OF TITLE 33, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PROCEDURES FOR, AND THE LEGAL EFFECTS OF, THE MERGERS WITH OTHER ENTITIES OF A PARTNERSHIP AND A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, RESPECTIVELY; BY ADDING SECTIONS 33-11-109 AND 33-11-110, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONVERSION OF A PARTNERSHIP OR LIMITED PARTNERSHIP TO A CORPORATION, SECTIONS 33-11-111 AND 33-11-112, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A CONVERSION OF A CORPORATION TO A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AND SECTIONS 33-11-113 AND 33-11-114, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CONVERSION OF A CORPORATION TO A PARTNERSHIP OR A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, AND SECTION 33-11-115, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THESE CONVERSIONS MAY BE UNDERTAKEN PURSUANT TO OTHER LAW; BY ADDING SECTIONS 33-44-908, 33-44-909, 33-44-910, 33-44-911, 33-44-912, 33-44-913, AND 33-44-914, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PROCEDURES FOR, AND THE LEGAL EFFECTS OF, CONVERSIONS OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY TO A CORPORATION, A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, OR A PARTNERSHIP, RESPECTIVELY; BY ADDING SECTION 33-44-1208, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH A FOREIGN CORPORATION IS NOT REQUIRED TO OBTAIN AUTHORITY TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE; BY ADDING SECTION 36-8-307, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE TRANSFEROR OF A SECURITY FOR VALUE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION NECESSARY FOR REGISTRATION OF THE SECURITY; TO AMEND SECTION 33-1-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO FILING, SERVICE, AND COPYING FEES PAYABLE TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE FEES FOR FILING OF ARTICLES OF DOMESTICATION AND ARTICLES OF CONVERSION; TO AMEND SECTION 33-1-400, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA BUSINESS CORPORATION ACT, SO AS TO INCLUDE DEFINITIONS FOR "LIMITED PARTNERSHIP" AND "PARTNERSHIP"; TO AMEND SECTION 33-2-102, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT OF AN INITIAL ANNUAL REPORT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-4-104, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FILING OF A NAME CHANGE BY A CORPORATION OWNING REAL PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FILING UPON THE CONVERSION OR DOMESTICATION OF A CORPORATION; TO AMEND SECTION 33-6-260, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CORPORATE SHARES WITHOUT A CERTIFICATE, SO AS TO REQUIRE A WRITTEN STATEMENT CONTAINING THE CERTIFICATION INFORMATION UPON THE ISSUE OR TRANSFER; TO AMEND SECTION 33-11-101, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ENTITIES WITH WHICH A CORPORATION MAY MERGE, SO AS TO INCLUDE A DOMESTIC OR FOREIGN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, PARTNERSHIP, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, OR OTHER ENTITY; TO AMEND SECTIONS 33-11-105 AND 33-11-106, BOTH RELATING TO THE MERGER OF A SUBSIDIARY OF A CORPORATION AND THE EFFECT OF THE MERGER OR EXCHANGE OF STOCK, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "ENTITY" FOR "CORPORATION"; TO AMEND SECTION 33-13-102, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A SHAREHOLDER'S RIGHT OF DISSENT AND PAYMENT UPON CERTAIN CORPORATE ACTIONS, SO AS TO DELETE A REFERENCE TO A NONPUBLIC CORPORATION AND TO PROVIDE FOR CONVERSION OF A CORPORATION INTO ANOTHER ENTITY; TO AMEND SECTION 33-14-107, RELATING TO UNKNOWN CLAIMS AGAINST A CORPORATION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE TIME FOR ENFORCING THE CLAIM TO TEN YEARS AFTER PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION AND TO PROVIDE FOR A CLAIM ARISING AFTER DISSOLUTION; TO AMEND SECTION 33-14-200, AS AMENDED, AND SECTION 33-14-210, BOTH RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE DISSOLUTION OF A CORPORATION, BOTH SO AS TO CORRECT A CROSS-REFERENCE TO THE STATE INCOME TAX PROVISIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 33-15-101, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ACTIVITIES NOT CONSTITUTING THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS BY A CORPORATION, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE MERE OWNERSHIP OF AN INTEREST IN A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY IN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 33-15-103, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY FOR A FOREIGN CORPORATION TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO CORRECT A CROSS-REFERENCE; TO AMEND SECTIONS 33-15-300 AND 33-15-310, BOTH AS AMENDED, BOTH RELATING TO REVOCATION OF A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY OF A FOREIGN CORPORATION TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE, BOTH SO AS TO CORRECT A CROSS-REFERENCE TO A STATE INCOME TAX PROVISION; TO AMEND SECTION 33-31-1101, RELATING TO THE MERGER OF A NONPROFIT CORPORATION AND THE MERGER OF A BUSINESS CORPORATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR MERGERS WITH A DOMESTIC OR FOREIGN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, PARTNERSHIP, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, OR OTHER ENTITY; TO AMEND SECTION 33-42-1690, RELATING TO ACTIVITIES NOT CONSIDERED THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS BY A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE MERE OWNERSHIP OF AN INTEREST IN A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY IN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-208, RELATING TO CERTIFICATES OF EXISTENCE OR AUTHORITY OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO ITS MOST RECENT ANNUAL REPORT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-404, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MANAGEMENT ISSUES OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY REQUIRING CONSENT BY ALL MEMBERS, SO AS TO CORRECT A CROSS-REFERENCE; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-410, RELATING TO ACTIONS BY A MEMBER OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ACTIONS BY A MANAGER OF THE COMPANY; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-801, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EVENTS GIVING RISE TO THE DISSOLUTION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EFFECT OF AN AGREEMENT CHANGING THE STATUTORY PROVISIONS FOR THE PURCHASE OF A DISTRIBUTIONAL INTEREST; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-806, RELATING TO DISTRIBUTING OF ASSETS IN THE WINDING UP OF THE BUSINESS OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DISTRIBUTION TO MEMBERS ACCORD WITH THEIR POSITIVE CAPITAL ACCOUNT BALANCES; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-809, RELATING TO GROUNDS FOR ADMINISTRATIVE DISSOLUTION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT FOR AN ANNUAL REPORT FILED WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-903, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF CONVERSION OF AN ENTITY TO A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO REQUIRE A FILING GIVING NOTICE OF THE NAME CHANGE IF THE ENTITY OWNS REAL PROPERTY IN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-905, RELATING TO ARTICLES OF MERGER OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A FOREIGN ENTITY AS A MERGING OR SURVIVING ENTITY OF THE MERGER; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-1003, RELATING TO ACTIVITIES NOT CONSTITUTING THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS IN THIS STATE BY A FOREIGN CORPORATION, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE MERE OWNERSHIP OF AN INTEREST IN A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY IN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-1006, RELATING TO REVOCATION OF THE AUTHORITY OF A FOREIGN CORPORATION TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT OF FILING AN ANNUAL REPORT WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-1204, RELATING TO FEES COLLECTIBLE BY THE SECRETARY OF STATE FROM A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO DELETE THE FEE FOR FILING AN ANNUAL REPORT; TO AMEND SECTION 38-90-20, RELATING TO LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY, SO AS TO REQUIRE LICENSING FOR OPERATION WITHIN THE STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 38-90-60, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO INCORPORATION OPTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF A CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY, SO AS TO REQUIRE APPROVAL BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE BEFORE THE SECRETARY OF STATE ACTS IN CONNECTION WITH A CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY; TO AMEND SECTION 12-20-40, RELATING TO INITIAL FILINGS WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE BY A CORPORATION, SO AS TO INCLUDE A DOMESTICATING CORPORATION; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 33-14-410, RELATING TO ACTIONS AND JUDGMENTS AGAINST SHAREHOLDERS OF DISSOLVED CORPORATIONS, SECTION 33-44-211, RELATING TO FILING OF AN ANNUAL REPORT BY A FOREIGN OR DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AND SECTIONS 39-13-10 THROUGH 39-13-40, RELATING TO NAMES OF BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS.

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

H. 4686 (Word version) -- Rep. G. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 22-3-545, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF CERTAIN CRIMINAL CASES FROM GENERAL SESSIONS COURT TO A MAGISTRATE OR MUNICIPAL COURT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM MONETARY PENALTY FOR WHICH A CRIME IN A CASE DOES NOT EXCEED FOR IT TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM GENERAL SESSIONS COURT TO A MAGISTRATE OR MUNICIPAL COURT.

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

H. 4692 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Battle, Coates, Davenport, Duncan, Emory, Mahaffey, Miller, Snow, Stille and Vaughn: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMERCIAL FEED ACT, SO AS TO REVISE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS AND ADD OTHER DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-40, RELATING TO CERTAIN UNLAWFUL SALES UNDER THE ACT, SO AS TO CORRECT SPECIFIED REFERENCES AND TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO OFFER FOR SALE ANY FEED THAT IS ADULTERATED OR MISBRANDED; TO ADD SECTION 46-27-41 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN COMMERCIAL FEED IS CONSIDERED TO BE MISBRANDED; TO ADD SECTION 46-27-42 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN COMMERCIAL FEED IS CONSIDERED TO BE ADULTERATED; TO ADD SECTION 46-27-45 SO AS TO REQUIRE MANUFACTURERS, IMPORTERS, DISTRIBUTORS, AND DEALERS OF COMMERCIAL FEEDS TO MAINTAIN CERTAIN RECORDS; TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-310, RELATING TO THE LABELING OF COMMERCIAL FEEDS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CONTENTS AND DISPLAY OF LABELING INFORMATION; TO ADD SECTION 46-27-350 SO AS TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURES FOR THE REVIEW OF A PRODUCT LABEL BY THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE; TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-410, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE TO INSPECT AND TAKE SAMPLES OF COMMERCIAL FEED, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE RIGHTS OF THE COMMISSIONER IN THIS REGARD AND TO REQUIRE RECEIPTS DESCRIBING THE SAMPLES OBTAINED; TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-420, RELATING TO ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH SAMPLING AND ANALYSES MUST BE CONDUCTED; TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-440, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL OBSTRUCTION OF THE INSPECTION OF FEEDS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OR ITS AGENTS TO OBTAIN A COURT ORDER DIRECTING A PREMISE TO BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-610, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSION TO SUSPEND SALES OF FEED, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONER TO ISSUE "WITHDRAWAL OF DISTRIBUTION" ORDERS AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TERMS OF AND THE PROCEDURES FOR THESE ORDERS; TO ADD SECTION 46-27-625 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONER TO APPLY FOR AND BE GRANTED INJUNCTIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 46-27-650, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE COMMISSIONER NOTIFY DEALERS AND SOLICITORS OF CERTAIN VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THIS NOTICE; AND TO ADD SECTION 46-27-700 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONER AND HIS REPRESENTATIVES TO COOPERATE WITH STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCIES IN REGARD TO THIS ACT.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

H. 4697 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Rhoad, Hayes, Bailey, Battle, Coates, Davenport, Edge, Keegan, Leach, Limehouse, Loftis, McCraw and Stewart: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 48-23-265 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO PURCHASES TREES OR FOREST PRODUCTS DIRECTLY FROM A LANDOWNER FROM LANDS IN THIS STATE MUST MAKE FULL PAYMENT TO THE LANDOWNER IN THE MANNER PROVIDED IN THIS SECTION, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS, TO PROVIDE THAT FAILURE TO REMIT PAYMENT AS REQUIRED SUBJECTS THE VIOLATOR TO CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHERE THE VALUE OF THE TIMBER EXCEEDS FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS, EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES USED TO ACQUIRE OR CUT THE TIMBER ARE SUBJECT TO CONFISCATION AND FORFEITURE.

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

Senator J. VERNE SMITH from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:

S. 548 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-71-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MEMBERS OF CERTAIN PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES WHO ARE EXEMPT FROM TORT LIABILITY, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY TO INCLUDE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ORGANIZATIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MESCHER from the General Committee submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 638 (Word version) -- Senator Moore: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 25-11-45 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FUNDING OF COUNTY VETERANS AFFAIRS OFFICES FROM APPROPRIATED MONIES DIRECTLY PAYABLE FROM THE STATE TREASURER TO EACH COUNTY OFFICE INSTEAD OF THROUGH THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 687 (Word version) -- Senator J. Verne Smith: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 2, TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF ACCOUNTANTS, SO AS TO CONFORM THIS CHAPTER TO THE STATUTORY ORGANIZATIONAL FRAMEWORK OF CHAPTER 1, TITLE 40 FOR BOARDS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF ACCOUNTANTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, REVISING THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD TO CONTAIN THREE RATHER THAN TWO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, CLARIFYING THE SCOPE OF PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTANTS, FURTHER SPECIFYING EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE, AUTHORIZING FEES FOR REGISTRATION OF ACCOUNTING FIRMS, AUTHORIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PEER REVIEW STANDARDS, INCREASING CRIMINAL PENALTIES, REVISING LICENSURE RENEWAL PROCEDURES, DELETING PROVISIONS FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF ACCOUNTING PRACTITIONERS AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN TRANSITION PROVISIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:

S. 827 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell and J. Verne Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-1-80 SO AS TO REQUIRE AN INDIVIDUAL WHO HOLDS HIMSELF OUT AS A CERTIFIED INDUSTRIAL HYGIENIST OR A CERTIFIED SAFETY PROFESSIONAL TO BE CERTIFIED BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE OR THE BOARD OF CERTIFIED SAFETY PROFESSIONALS, RESPECTIVELY, AND TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 869 (Word version) -- Senator J. Verne Smith: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 35, TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF LONG TERM HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATORS, SO AS TO SPECIFY EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO QUALIFY FOR LICENSURE AS A NURSING HOME OR COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY ADMINISTRATOR, TO PROHIBIT LICENSURE OF A PERSON WHO HAS BEEN CONVICTED OF A CRIME RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF NURSING HOME OR COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY ADMINISTRATION, TO DELETE SPECIFIC FEES AND REQUIRE FEES TO BE PROMULGATED IN REGULATION, TO FURTHER SPECIFY ACTS OF MISCONDUCT, TO SPECIFY THE AMOUNT OF CIVIL FINES THAT MAY BE IMPOSED GENERALLY AND SPECIFICALLY FOR UNLAWFUL PRACTICE, TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION OF NURSING HOME AND COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY ADMINISTRATORS, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:

S. 888 (Word version) -- Senator J. Verne Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-29-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF PERSONS WHO MANUFACTURE, SELL, INSTALL, MODIFY, OR ALTER MANUFACTURED HOMES, SO AS TO DEFINE "NEW MANUFACTURED HOME".

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 897 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 6-9-55 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY CHANGES ADOPTED TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA BUILDING CODE BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA BUILDING CODE COUNCIL ARE DEEMED TO BE INCORPORATED INTO THE SOUTH CAROLINA BUILDING CODE AND DO NOT HAVE TO BE READOPTED IN SUBSEQUENT CODE CYCLES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator J. VERNE SMITH from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 898 (Word version) -- Senators J. Verne Smith, Fair, Knotts, Thomas, Martin, Land, Moore and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 33, TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF THE NURSING PROFESSION, SO AS TO CONFORM THIS CHAPTER TO THE STATUTORY ORGANIZATIONAL FRAMEWORK OF CHAPTER 1, TITLE 40 FOR BOARDS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, INCREASING THE BOARD MEMBERSHIP FROM NINE TO TEN BY ADDING A LAY PERSON, TO CODIFY AND FURTHER SPECIFY THE REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE AND SCOPE OF PRACTICE FOR A NURSE PRACTITIONER, CERTIFIED NURSE-MIDWIFE, CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST, AND CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETIST, TO FURTHER SPECIFY LICENSURE AND EXAMINATION PROCEDURES, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPANDED PRACTICE IN NURSING, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF THE NURSING PROFESSION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MESCHER from the General Committee submitted a favorable report on:

S. 924 (Word version) -- Senator Hawkins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA WORK TO PASS LIFETIME AND RETIREMENT SAVINGS ACCOUNTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MESCHER from the General Committee submitted a favorable report on:

S. 926 (Word version) -- Senator Hawkins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT OUR ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS SUPPORT, WORK TO PASS, AND VOTE FOR THE IMMEDIATE AND PERMANENT REPEAL OF THE DEATH TAX.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MESCHER from the General Committee submitted a favorable report on:

S. 927 (Word version) -- Senator Hawkins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES TO PASS A PERMANENT BAN ON INTERNET ACCESS TAXES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MESCHER from the General Committee submitted a favorable report on:

S. 928 (Word version) -- Senator Hawkins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA WORK TO PASS SOCIAL SECURITY PERSONAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Columbia, S.C., February 26, 2004

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act and that it be enrolled for ratification:

H. 3617 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer, Bailey, Frye, Cato, E.H. Pitts, Cotty, J.H. Neal, J. Brown, Anthony, Ceips, Duncan, Freeman, Mahaffey, McCraw, Ott, Phillips, M.A. Pitts, Stille, White and Whitmire: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 32-7-60 SO AS TO CREATE THE PRENEED FUNERAL LOSS REIMBURSEMENT FUND AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PURPOSE AND USES OF MONIES IN THE FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 32-7-45, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER PROCEDURES FOR TRUST FUNDS HELD PURSUANT TO PRENEED BURIAL CONTRACTS, SO AS TO REVISE THESE PROCEDURES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 32-7-50, RELATING TO LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS TO OFFER AND ENTER INTO PRENEED BURIAL CONTRACTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR ENTERING INTO SUCH CONTRACTS WITHOUT BEING LICENSED.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., February 24, 2004

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the appointment:

Reappointment, Anderson-Oconee County Master-in-Equity, with term to commence June 30, 2004, and to expire June 30, 2010

Ellis B. Drew, Jr., Office of Master-in-Equity, P. O. Box 8002, Anderson, S.C. 29622
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

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

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

H. 4713 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, Weeks and Coates: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 797 OF 1988, RELATING TO THE VOCATIONAL EDUCATION SCHOOL FOR SUMTER COUNTY, SO AS TO ADD A VOTING MEMBER TO THE CAREER CENTER BOARD OF TRUSTEES.

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

S. 893 (Word version) -- Senator Martin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-165 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE THIRD FRIDAY IN SEPTEMBER OF EACH YEAR IS DECLARED TO BE "POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA, TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR SHALL ISSUE A PROCLAMATION EACH YEAR CALLING UPON THE PEOPLE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO OBSERVE "POW/MIA DAY" WITH APPROPRIATE CEREMONIES AND ACTIVITIES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE FLAGS ATOP STATE AND LOCAL PUBLIC BUILDINGS, INCLUDING THE STATE CAPITOL BUILDING, SHALL BE FLOWN AT HALF-STAFF UNTIL NOON ON "POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY".

S. 496 (Word version) -- Senator McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 47-5-60, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RABIES INOCULATIONS, CERTIFICATES, TAGS, AND FEES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE FEE FROM THREE DOLLARS TO FIVE DOLLARS FOR A RABIES INOCULATION AT A RABIES CLINIC PROMOTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL AND LICENSED VETERINARIANS.

S. 847 (Word version) -- Senators Waldrep and Kuhn: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 46-17-200, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS OF MEMBERS OF THE AGRICULTURAL COMMODITY BOARDS, SO AS TO REVISE THESE QUALIFICATIONS.

S. 787 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 11-15-590, 11-21-60, AS AMENDED, 11-41-150, 41-43-110, AS AMENDED, 57-11-380, 59-71-180, 59-107-170, AND 59-146-140, ALL OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, AND ALL RELATING TO THE USE OF BOND SALE PROCEEDS FOR GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS ISSUED BY THE STATE AND POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS OF THE STATE UNDER THE VARIOUS AUTHORIZING STATUTES, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT THAT BOND PREMIUMS BE APPLIED ONLY TO THE FIRST INSTALLMENT OF PRINCIPAL DUE.

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

The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (787R003.HKL), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding appropriately numbered SECTIONS to read:

/   SECTION   ____.   Section 11-41-50 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 11-41-50.   (A)   Pursuant to Article X, Section 13(6)(c) of the Constitution of this State, 1895, the General Assembly provides that economic development bonds may be issued under this chapter only at such times as the maximum annual debt service on all general obligation bonds of the State, including economic development bonds outstanding and being issued, but excluding highway bonds, state institution bonds, tax anticipation notes, and bond anticipation notes, must will not exceed five and one-half 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 may not have outstanding issue general obligation bonds, excluding economic development bonds, highway bonds, state institution bonds, tax anticipation notes, and bond anticipation notes, if at the time of issuance the maximum annual debt service on which all such general obligation bonds, outstanding and being issued 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.

(B)   With respect to the first eight hundred fifty million dollars in principal amount of general obligation bonds issued after the effective date of this chapter within the debt service constraints set forth in subsection (A) of this section, the General Assembly provides additional constitutional authorization for such bonds pursuant to Article X, Section 13(5) of the Constitution of this State, 1895. This authorization is the same authorization contained in, and is not duplicative of, the authorization set forth in Section 11-51-50(c)."

SECTION   ____.   Section 11-1-110 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 11-1-110.   The State Budget and Control Board is authorized to issue and sell bonds, notes, or other obligations for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, renovating, or maintaining facilities for the use of and occupancy of state departments and agencies or to refund such bonds, notes, or other obligations, provided that these obligations must be payable solely from revenues derived from the renting, leasing, or sale of all or any designated portion of such the facilities acquired with the proceeds of the sale of these obligations held by the State Budget and Control Board for the use of and occupancy by state departments and agencies and must be secured solely by a pledge of these the revenues from such designated facilities and, at the option of the State Budget and Control Board, may be additionally secured by a mortgage of these facilities; provided, further, that the issuance and the sale of the bonds, notes, or other obligations provided for in this section are subject to the review of the Joint Bond Review Committee."   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator LEATHERMAN proposed the following amendment (GGS\22468HTC04), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding two sections appropriately numbered to read:

/ SECTION   ___.   Section 11-43-540 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 148 of 1997, is amended to read:

"Section 11-43-540.   The issuance of transportation infrastructure bonds is subject to the limitations contained in Article X, Section 13(6)(c) of the Constitution of this State. Within such limitations, transportation infrastructure bonds may be issued for qualified projects or to refund transportation infrastructure bonds from time to time under the conditions prescribed by this article. The review and approval of the Joint Bond Review Committee must be obtained prior to the issuance of any transportation infrastructure bonds. No transportation infrastructure bonds may be issued unless the board has a source of revenues to reimburse the general fund for pay the principal and interest on the bonds."

SECTION ___. Section 11-43-550 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 148 of 1997, is amended to read:

"Section 11-43-550.   For the payment of the principal of and interest on all transportation infrastructure bonds, whether or not outstanding or hereafter issued, as they come due, there is pledged the full faith, credit, and taxing power of this State, and in accordance with the provisions of Article X, Section 13(4) of the Constitution of this State, the General Assembly authorizes the allocation on an annual basis of sufficient tax revenues to provide for the punctual payment of the principal and interest on transportation infrastructure bonds. In addition to the full faith, credit, and taxing power, there also may be is pledged such revenue as may be available to the board and the State Treasurer is authorized to use such revenue when pledged, without further action of the board, for the payment of the principal and interest on transportation infrastructure bonds as the same bonds respectively mature. If the revenues so pledged prove insufficient to meet the payments of the interest on and principal of the transportation infrastructure bonds in the fiscal year, then the State Treasurer shall set aside from the general tax revenues received in the fiscal year so much of the general tax revenues as are needed for the purpose and shall apply these revenues to the punctual payment of the interest on and principal of transportation infrastructure bonds due or to become due in the fiscal year." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 891 (Word version) -- Senator Richardson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-73-430, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE MAKING OF RATES FOR CASUALTY INSURANCE, SO AS TO ADD TO THE CRITERIA THAT CONSIDERATION MUST BE GIVEN TO ASSESSMENTS, SUCH AS THE GUARANTY FUND, WIND AND HAIL JOINT UNDERWRITING ASSOCIATION, AND SIMILAR MECHANISMS WHEN MAKING THE RATES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 38-73-920, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE INSURER MAY MAKE OR ISSUE A CONTRACT OR POLICY ONLY ON RATES WHICH ARE IN EFFECT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PROPOSED RATES CHANGES WHERE THE SOLE FACTOR FOR THE CHANGE IS THE IMPACT OF A REVISED ASSESSMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A RATE INCREASE FOR PURPOSES OF THIS SECTION.

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

Senator RICHARDSON proposed the following amendment (891RICHARDSON), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, line 15, after the sentence ending / for purposes of this section. / by inserting:

/   No rate increase based upon an assessment may become effective unless the assessment has been paid.   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RICHARDSON explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over, as amended.

Having received a favorable report from the Anderson & Oconee County Delegations, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Reappointment, Anderson-Oconee County Master-in-Equity, with term to commence June 30, 2004, and to expire June 30, 2010

Ellis B. Drew, Jr., Office of Master-in-Equity, P. O. Box 8002, Anderson, S.C. 29622

On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Robert Connelly, Sr. of Ulmer, S.C., farmer, community leader, former magistrate for Sycamore Township and Allendale County School Board Chairman and Trustee.

Senator McCONNELL moved that, when the Senate adjourns on Friday, February 27, 2004, it stand adjourned to meet next Tuesday, March 2, 2004, at 12:00 Noon, which motion was adopted.

At 11:37 A.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.

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