Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The House assembled at 10:00 a.m.
Deliberations were opened with prayer by Rev. Charles E. Seastrunk, Jr. as follows:
Our thought for today is from Psalm 84:8: "Hear my prayer, O Lord God Almighty."
Let us pray. Almighty God, listen to the prayers of Your people assembled in this place. Provide them with courage, wisdom, and integrity. Strengthen them in resolve to work for the best that You have promised. Prepare us as a people of God to follow Your guidance in serving. Look in favor upon our Nation, President, State and leaders. Protect and defend our troops and keep them safe. In Your Holy Name, Amen.
Pursuant to Rule 6.3, the House of Representatives was led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America by the SPEAKER.
After corrections to the Journal of the proceedings of yesterday, the SPEAKER ordered it confirmed.
Rep. GOVAN moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Chester A. Ray, Sr. of Orangeburg, which was agreed to.
On motion of Rep. LEACH, with unanimous consent, the following were taken up for immediate consideration and accepted:
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of State Farm Insurance Companies, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a luncheon. This event will be held on Tuesday, April 5, 2005, from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on the State House Grounds.
Sincerely,
Bruce White
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Hospital Association, the Members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, April 5, 2005, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Clarion Town House.
Sincerely,
Ken Shull
President
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Ambulatory Surgery Center Association, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 6, 2005, from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. in Room 221 of the Blatt Building.
Sincerely,
Carolyn Evec, RN CNOR
President
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Alliance of Health, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a SC Legislative Kidney Health Day luncheon. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 6, 2005, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on the State House Grounds.
Sincerely,
Jennifer B. Marchant
Membership and Events Coordinator
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the Members of the Board of the State Ports Authority, the District Export Council and the SC State Ports Authority, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 6, 2005, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Columbia Museum of Art.
Sincerely,
Barbara L. Melvin
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the SC Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and the SC Coalition for Promoting Physical Fitness, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a "Physical Fitness Breakfast Forum." This event will be held on Thursday, April 7, 2005, from 8:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. in Room 221 of the Blatt Building.
Sincerely,
Amy Splittgerber, M.Ed.
Executive Director, SCCPPA
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the Governmental Affairs Committee of the Citadel Alumni Association, the Members, spouses and attaches of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to the 30th Annual Citadel Alumni Association Legislative Barbecue. This event will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2005, from 6:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. in the Cantey Building on the State Fair Grounds.
Sincerely,
Wallace I. West
Assistant Director
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the YMCA's of South Carolina, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2005, from 8:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. in Room 221 of the Blatt Building.
Sincerely,
Elaine Fincher
Brett Public Relations
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of Beach Music Association International, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to the 5th Annual Beach Music Day. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2005, from 12:00 noon until 3:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided for House members and special guests.
Sincerely,
Harry Turner
President
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the SC Association of Municipal Power Systems, the Members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2005, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Seawell's on Rosewood Drive.
Sincerely,
Ken Barnett
Greenwood CPW
President
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Association of Council on Aging Directors, the Members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a breakfast. This event will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2005, from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. at the Clarion Town House.
Sincerely,
Wendy P. Duda
Chairman
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina State Firemen's Association, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a luncheon. This event will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 2005, upon adjournment on the State House Grounds.
Sincerely,
Fire Marshal Bill Hall
President
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Coastal Conservation League, the Members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to an Oyster Roast and Frogmore Stew. This event will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 2005, from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at the Seibels House, 1601 Richland Street.
Sincerely,
Christie Renken
Legislative Director
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to Spartanburg County Day at the State House. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2005, from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. on the State House Grounds.
Sincerely,
John S. Poole
President
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the SC Junior Golf Foundation, Mr. Bill Dukes, Willy's and the Blue Marlin, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to the "Annual Legislator Appreciation Night & Celebration of Golf" reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2005, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Willy's and the Blue Marlin. The Legislative Classic Golf Tournament is scheduled for Thursday, April 21, 2005, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the University Club.
Sincerely,
Tim Kreger
Director of Development
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Tobacco Collaborative, the Members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a breakfast. This event will be held on Thursday, April 21, 2005, from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. in Room 221 of the Blatt Building.
Sincerely,
Renee Martin
Executive Director
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a reception. This event will be held on Tuesday, April 26, 2005, from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Moore Building in the SC Fairgrounds.
Sincerely,
David Winkles
President
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Association of Community Development Corporations, the Members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a breakfast. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 27, 2005, from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. in Room 221 of the Blatt Building.
Sincerely,
Bernie Mzyck
President & CEO
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Hospitality Association, the Members and staff of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a "A Taste of South Carolina" luncheon. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 27, 2005, beginning at 12:00 noon on the State House Grounds.
Sincerely,
Alisa Wolf
Director of Meetings
January 20, 2005
The Honorable Robert W. Leach, Sr.
Chairman, House Invitations Committee
503-A Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Dear Chairman Leach:
On behalf of the South Carolina Chapter of the Appraisal Institute, the Members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are invited to a reception. This event will be held on Wednesday, April 27, 2005, from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at The Summit Club.
Sincerely,
H. Corbin Haskell, MAI
2004 President
Document No. 2901
Agency: Department of Social Services
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 43-1-80 and 20-7-2980 et seq.
Child Care Centers Licensing Regulations
Received by Speaker of the House of Representatives
June 1, 2004
Referred to Medical, Military, Public, and Municipal Affairs Committee
Legislative Review Expiration September 28, 2004 (Subject to Sine Die Revision)
Withdrawn and Resubmitted May 02, 2005
Document No. 2925
Agency: Department of Social Services
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 43-1-80 and 20-7-2980 et seq.
Licensing of Group Child Care Homes
Received by Speaker of the House of Representatives
January 11, 2005
Referred to Medical, Military, Public, and Municipal Affairs Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 11, 2005
Withdrawn and Resubmitted May 02, 2005
Document No. 2924
Agency: Department of Social Services
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 43-1-80 and 20-7-2980 et seq.
Child Care Centers Operated by Churches or Religious Entities
Received by Speaker of the House of Representatives
January 11, 2005
Referred to Medical, Military, Public, and Municipal Committee
Legislative Review Expiration May 11, 2005
Withdrawn and Resubmitted May 02, 2005
The following was introduced:
H. 3686 (Word version) -- Reps. Lucas, J. M. Neal and Emory: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DANNY WILLIAMS, FORMER KERSHAW POLICE CHIEF, FOR DISTINGUISHED AND DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE KERSHAW COMMUNITY AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND CONGRATULATE HIM ON BEING NAMED "CITIZEN OF THE YEAR" FOR 2005.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced:
H. 3687 (Word version) -- Reps. Weeks and G. M. Smith: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND CHRISTOPHER BARFIELD OF SUMTER FOR HIS OUTSTANDING COURAGE AND CONCERN FOR OTHERS DEMONSTRATED WHEN HE SAVED A WOMAN FROM SEVERE BURNS IN JANUARY 2003, AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM ON BEING NAMED SUMTER COUNTY'S FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR.
The Resolution was adopted.
On motion of Rep. CHELLIS, with unanimous consent, the following was taken up for immediate consideration:
H. 3688 (Word version) -- Reps. Chellis, Young, Bailey and Harrell: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO THE SUMMERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL "GREEN WAVE" 2004 WRESTLING TEAM AND THEIR COACHING STAFF, AT A TIME AND DATE TO BE DETERMINED BY THE SPEAKER, TO CONGRATULATE THE TEAM FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING STATE CHAMPIONSHIP WIN IN THE CLASS AAAA STATE WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITION.
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the House of Representatives extend the privilege of the floor to the Summerville High School "Green Wave" 2004 Wrestling Team and their coaching staff, at a time and date to be determined by the Speaker, to congratulate them on their State Championship win in the Class AAAA State Wrestling Championship Competition.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following was introduced:
H. 3689 (Word version) -- Reps. Chellis, Young, Bailey and Harrell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE AND COMMEND THE SUMMERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL "GREEN WAVE" 2004 WRESTLING TEAM AND HEAD COACH KENNETH WALKER AND HIS FINE STAFF FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING WIN CAPTURING THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP IN THE CLASS AAAA WRESTLING COMPETITION ON FEBRUARY 26, 2005.
The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.
The following was introduced:
H. 3690 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Barfield, Clemmons, Edge, Hardwick, Hayes and Viers: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS OF JOHN NORTON MCMILLAN UPON HIS DEATH AND TO REMEMBER HIS LIFE AND WORK.
The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.
The following was introduced:
H. 3691 (Word version) -- Rep. Vaughn: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS APPRECIATION TO GREENVILLE SAFE KIDS COALITION FOR TEN YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE TO THE STATE AND FOR PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN FROM UNINTENTIONAL CHILDHOOD INJURIES.
The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.
The Senate sent to the House the following:
S. 567 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION SHARING THE EXCITEMENT OF THE RESIDENTS OF ALLENDALE COUNTY ON THE OCCASION OF THE DEDICATION OF THE RESTORED AND REOPENED ALLENDALE COUNTY COURTHOUSE AT THE COURTHOUSE DEDICATION CEREMONY AND HOMECOMING ON MARCH 19, 2005.
The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.
The following Bills and Joint Resolutions were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:
H. 3692 (Word version) -- Rep. Haskins: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 25, TITLE 16 SO AS TO ENACT THE "CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURTS ACT", TO PROVIDE AUTHORITY FOR CIRCUIT SOLICITORS TO CREATE CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURTS IN THEIR CIRCUITS FOR PERSONS WHO COMMIT CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENSES, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR ADMISSION INTO A CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURT, AND TO CREATE A STATE CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURT OFFICE TO COORDINATE THE OPERATION OF CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURTS.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 3693 (Word version) -- Reps. Bingham, Merrill, Ott, E. H. Pitts, Huggins, Clark and Toole: A BILL TO ENACT THE SCHOOL EQUITY AND PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ACT BY AMENDING THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 36, TITLE 12, SO AS TO IMPOSE AN ADDITIONAL STATE SALES, USE, AND CASUAL EXCISE TAX EQUAL TO TWO PERCENT OF GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES OR SALES PRICE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THIS ADDITIONAL TWO PERCENT TAX DOES NOT APPLY TO UNPREPARED FOOD AND ON ACCOMMODATIONS FOR TRANSIENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 11-11-150, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TRUST FUND FOR TAX RELIEF, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT REVENUES FROM THE TRUST FUND REIMBURSING SCHOOL DISTRICTS FOR THE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION TO A SCHOOL DISTRICT MUST BE PAID MONTHLY IN AN AMOUNT THAT IS THE DISTRICT'S PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE REIMBURSEMENT BASED ON THE DISTRICT'S WEIGHTED PUPIL UNITS AS A PERCENTAGE OF STATEWIDE WEIGHTED PUPIL UNITS; BY ADDING SECTION 11-11-155 SO AS TO CREATE THE SCHOOL MILLAGE TAX EXEMPTION TRUST FUND (THE SCHOOL TRUST FUND) AND REQUIRE REVENUES OF THE ADDITIONAL SALES AND USE TAX AND ADDITIONAL REVENUE GENERATED BY ELIMINATING OR REVISING SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS AND CAPS TO BE CREDITED TO THIS FUND; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-24-10, RELATING TO THE DEED RECORDING FEE, SO AS TO INCREASE THIS FEE BY ONE DOLLAR AND FIFTEEN CENTS ON EACH FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS OF THE REALTY'S VALUE; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-1145 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A DEDUCTION IS ALLOWED FROM SOUTH CAROLINA TAXABLE INCOME FOR CASH CONTRIBUTIONS FOR ANY EDUCATIONAL PURPOSE MADE TO A PUBLIC SCHOOL OR TO A SCHOOL DISTRICT OF THE STATE, OR MADE TO THE SCHOOL TRUST FUND; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 12-36-60 AND 12-36-90, BOTH AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS OF "TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY" AND "GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES" FOR PURPOSES OF THE IMPOSITION OF THE SALES AND USE TAX AND EXEMPTIONS FROM THE SALES TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SALE OF SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION LOTTERY TICKETS IS A SALE OF TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY GIVING RISE TO GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES IN THE AMOUNT OF THE TICKET PRICE AND IS SUBJECT TO THE SALES TAX; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE MAXIMUM SALES, USE, AND CASUAL EXCISE TAX ON VARIOUS ITEMS OF TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY, INCLUDING MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO RAISE THE MAXIMUM TAX; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO DELETE CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-253 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR ALL PROPERTY FROM SCHOOL OPERATING MILLAGE NOT OTHERWISE EXEMPT, PROVIDE THE METHOD OF DETERMINING AND PHASING IN THE EXEMPTION, AND TO PROVIDE REIMBURSEMENTS TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS FOR THIS NEW EXEMPTION WITH A PAYMENT BASED ON WEIGHTED PUPIL UNITS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-20-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION FINANCE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE WEIGHTINGS USED TO PROVIDE RELATIVE COST DIFFERENCES; BY ADDING SECTION 59-20-42 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING WITH FISCAL YEAR 2005-2006 EDUCATION FINANCE ACT APPROPRIATIONS MUST BE DISTRIBUTED TO A SCHOOL DISTRICT IN AN AMOUNT THAT IS THE DISTRICT'S PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF SUCH FUNDS BASED ON THE DISTRICT'S WEIGHTED PUPIL UNITS AS A PERCENTAGE OF STATEWIDE WEIGHTED PUPIL UNITS AS DETERMINED ANNUALLY PURSUANT TO THE EDUCATION FINANCE ACT; TO REQUIRE THE SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO ORDER RATE REDUCTIONS IN RATES CHARGED CUSTOMERS OF REGULATED PUBLIC UTILITIES SUFFICIENT TO REFLECT NET PROPERTY TAX REDUCTIONS TO UTILITIES PROVIDED PURSUANT TO THIS ACT, TO PROVIDE THAT FOR A PERIOD OF THREE YEARS BEGINNING JULY 1, 2005, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2008, A LOCAL GOVERNING BODY UNDER PROVISIONS OF LAW AUTHORIZING THE ASSESSMENT OF TAXES AND FEES UNDER SPECIFIED CONDITIONS MAY INCREASE THE MILLAGE RATE IMPOSED FOR GENERAL OPERATING PURPOSES ABOVE THE RATE IMPOSED FOR SUCH PURPOSES FOR THE PRECEDING TAX YEAR ONLY BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE GOVERNING BODY, PRESENT OR NOT, RATHER THAN BY A POSITIVE MAJORITY VOTE; BY REPEALING ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 10 OF TITLE 4, RELATING TO THE CAPITAL PROJECT SALES TAX ACT, AND CHAPTER 37 OF TITLE 4 RELATING TO OPTIONAL METHODS FOR FINANCING TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES INCLUDING LEVY OF ADDITIONAL SALES TAXES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT SALES TAXES FOR PROJECTS PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED UNDER THESE PROVISIONS SHALL CONTINUE UNTIL THEIR SCHEDULED TERMINATION DATE; TO REQUIRE A REFERENDUM IN COUNTIES IN WHICH THE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX IS CURRENTLY IMPOSED FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING WHETHER TO RESCIND THE TAX AND BY PROVIDING THAT THIS ACT TAKES EFFECT JULY 1, 2005, AND APPLIES FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEGINNING AFTER 2004 AND MOTOR VEHICLE TAX YEARS BEGINNING AFTER JUNE 30, 2005.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means
H. 3694 (Word version) -- Reps. Miller, Cotty, Anderson, Vaughn, Clark, Neilson, Altman, Battle, G. Brown, Davenport, Edge, Frye, Hagood, Hamilton, Rivers, Sinclair, D. C. Smith and Wilkins: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 16-19-170 ENACTING THE "GAMBLING CRUISE PROHIBITION ACT" SO AS TO PROHIBIT GAMBLING OR THE REPAIR OF GAMBLING DEVICES ON A VESSEL IN A VOYAGE THAT BEGINS AND ENDS WITHIN THIS STATE, TO PROHIBIT THE OPERATION OF A VESSEL THAT TRANSPORTS PERSONS TO ANOTHER VESSEL FOR THE PURPOSE OF GAMBLING IF BOTH THE TRANSPORTING VESSEL AND THE VESSEL ON WHICH A GAMBLING DEVICE IS USED OR REPAIRED BEGINS AND ENDS ITS VOYAGE IN THIS STATE, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 3695 (Word version) -- Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF DENTISTRY-DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, RELATING TO EXAMINATION OF DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENISTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2949, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
Without Reference
H. 3696 (Word version) -- Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF DENTISTRY-DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, RELATING TO RE-EXAMINATION, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2950, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
Without Reference
H. 3697 (Word version) -- Reps. Hinson, E. H. Pitts, Agnew, Altman, Brady, Ceips, Dantzler, Davenport, Duncan, Hagood, Harrell, Herbkersman, Hiott, Merrill, Neilson, Owens, M. A. Pitts, Scarborough, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. R. Smith, Talley, Taylor, Toole, Umphlett, Vaughn, Whitmire and Young: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE III, SECTION 9 OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO SESSIONS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AFTER THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONVENES ON THE SECOND TUESDAY IN JANUARY OF EACH YEAR, THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MAY RECEDE FOR A PERIOD NOT TO EXCEED THIRTY CALENDAR DAYS, UNLESS EXTENDED BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT EACH BODY MAY PROVIDE FOR MEETINGS DURING THE LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS IT CONSIDERS APPROPRIATE; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE III BY DELETING SECTION 21, WHICH PROVIDES THAT NEITHER HOUSE, DURING THE SESSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, SHALL WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF THE OTHER ADJOURN FOR MORE THAN THREE DAYS, NOR ADJOURN TO MEET IN ANOTHER PLACE.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 3698 (Word version) -- Rep. Altman: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHARLESTON COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD MAY ALLOW A TEACHER, GUIDANCE COUNSELOR, OR MEDIA SPECIALIST TO SUSPEND A STUDENT FOR UP TO FIVE CONSECUTIVE DAYS BY WRITTEN NOTICE TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE AND TO THE STUDENT.
Referred to Charleston Delegation
H. 3699 (Word version) -- Rep. Altman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-430 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF AN INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING THAT IS VESTED WITH THE POWER OF EMINENT DOMAIN MAY NOT EXERCISE THE POWER OF EMINENT DOMAIN WITHOUT PRIOR APPROVAL FROM THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION AND THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
H. 3700 (Word version) -- Reps. Clemmons and Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 15-7-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ACTIONS WHICH MUST BE TRIED WHERE THE SUBJECT MATTER IS SITUATED, SO AS TO ADD THAT ALL MATTERS BETWEEN LANDLORD AND TENANT MUST BE TRIED WHERE THE SUBJECT MATTER OR SOME PART OF THE PROPERTY IS SITUATED.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary
H. 3701 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty and Lucas: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 930 OF 1970, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SCHOOL TRUSTEES FOR KERSHAW COUNTY, SO AS TO REVISE THE ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARE ELECTED; AND TO DESIGNATE A MAP NUMBER FOR THE MAP ON WHICH THESE LINES OF THE ELECTION DISTRICTS FOR TRUSTEES ARE DELINEATED AND MAINTAINED BY THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.
Referred to Kershaw Delegation
H. 3702 (Word version) -- Reps. J. R. Smith, Loftis, Hinson, G. R. Smith, Haskins, Barfield, Vaughn, Clark, Frye, Davenport, Viers, Haley, Altman, Bailey, Cato, Ceips, Chellis, Clemmons, Dantzler, Edge, Hagood, Hamilton, Harrell, Herbkersman, Huggins, Limehouse, Littlejohn, McGee, Merrill, Perry, E. H. Pitts, Rice, Sandifer, Scarborough, D. C. Smith, W. D. Smith, Talley, Tripp and Young: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-67-460, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CONTRACTS FOR SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A SCHOOL DISTRICT MAY CONTRACT WITH PRIVATE INDIVIDUALS OR CONTRACTORS FOR ITS TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AND TO PROVIDE THE FORMULA BY WHICH THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD SHALL CALCULATE STATE AID.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means
H. 3703 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughn, Loftis, Haskins, Davenport, Altman, Bailey, Bales, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Cooper, Herbkersman, Littlejohn, Rhoad, Rice and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-43-275, SO AS TO REPLACE CALCULATION AND IMPOSITION OF A ROLLBACK PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE FOR REASSESSMENT YEARS WITH A REASSESSMENT YEAR MILLAGE RATE CALCULATED TO PRODUCE NO MORE THAN ONE PERCENT ADDITIONAL PROPERTY TAX REVENUE THAN SUCH REVENUE IN THE PRECEDING YEAR; TO AMEND SECTION 6-1-320, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MILLAGE RATE LIMITATIONS ON LOCAL GOVERNING BODIES, SO AS TO DELETE AUTHORIZATION FOR MILLAGE RATE INCREASES EQUAL TO INCREASES IN THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX WITHOUT A POSITIVE MAJORITY VOTE OF THE GOVERNING BODY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-251, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FROM SCHOOL OPERATING MILLAGE AND CALCULATION OF THE ROLLBACK TAX SO AS TO DELETE THE ROLLBACK TAX PROVISIONS MADE OBSOLETE BY THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means
S. 237 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 56-1-465 AND 56-1-810, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROVIDING A PERSON WITH A NOTICE SUSPENDING HIS DRIVER'S LICENSE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, SO AS TO REVISE THE NOTIFICATION PROCEDURE.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
S. 251 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-9600, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE "NO MORE HOMELESS PETS" SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "STATE VETERINARIAN" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE".
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
S. 406 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-2005, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES SHALL ADMINISTER THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE PROGRAM IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-2111, SO AS TO PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES SHALL NOT ISSUE A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE, OR A COMMERCIAL SPECIAL LICENSE OR PERMIT; BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-2112, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A DRIVER WHO IS CONVICTED OF OPERATING A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE IN VIOLATION OF CERTAIN RAILROAD-HIGHWAY GRADE CROSSING PROVISIONS IS DISQUALIFIED FROM OPERATING A COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE FOR A CERTAIN PERIOD OF TIME; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-2030, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS OF TERMS CONTAINED IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITIONS OF THE TERMS "CONVICTION", "SERIOUS TRAFFIC VIOLATION", AND "TANK VEHICLE", AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR THE TERMS "SCHOOL BUS", AND "TRAFFIC VIOLATION"; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-2080, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY AUTHORIZE PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS TO ADMINISTER THE SKILLS PORTION OF THE COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE TEST, TO PROVIDE THAT THE FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION MAY RANDOMLY TEST COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE APPLICANTS OR HOLDERS, AND PROVIDE THAT A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE APPLICANT OR HOLDER WHO FAILS RETESTING SHALL LOSE HIS COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-2100, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CONTENTS OF A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE, THE PRIVILEGES AFFORDED TO THE HOLDER OF A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE WITH THE VARIOUS CLASSIFICATIONS, ENDORSEMENTS, AND RESTRICTIONS, AND THE ISSUANCE AND RENEWAL OF A COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE "S" ENDORSEMENT AUTHORIZES A PERSON TO DRIVE ANY SCHOOL BUS; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-2110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MOVING VIOLATIONS THAT DISQUALIFY A PERSON FROM DRIVING A COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THESE VIOLATIONS MAY BE COMMITTED IN EITHER A COMMERCIAL OR NONCOMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE, TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, TO PROVIDE THAT DRIVING A COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE WHEN A PERSON'S COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE IS REVOKED, SUSPENDED, OR CANCELLED DISQUALIFIES THE PERSON FROM DRIVING A COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE, TO PROVIDE THAT CAUSING A FATALITY THROUGH THE NEGLIGENT OPERATION OF A COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE DISQUALIFIES A PERSON FROM DRIVING A COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE, AND TO DEFINE THE TERM "SERIOUS TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS"; AND TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2735, RELATING TO VEHICLES ENTERING INTO AN INTERSECTION, CROSSWALK, OR RAILROAD CROSSING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VEHICLE MAY NOT BE DRIVEN OR TOWED THROUGH OR OVER A RAILROAD GRADE CROSSING UNTIL ITS DRIVER HAS DETERMINED THAT THE VEHICLE HAS SUFFICIENT UNDER CARRIAGE CLEARANCE TO NEGOTIATE THE RAILROAD GRADE CROSSING.
Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works
The roll call of the House of Representatives was taken resulting as follows:
Agnew Allen Altman Anderson Anthony Bailey Bales Ballentine Barfield Battle Bingham Bowers Brady Branham Breeland G. Brown J. Brown R. Brown Cato Ceips Chalk Chellis Clark Clemmons Clyburn Cobb-Hunter Cooper Cotty Dantzler Davenport Delleney Duncan Edge Emory Frye Funderburk Govan Hagood Haley Hamilton Hardwick Harrell Harrison Haskins Hayes Herbkersman J. Hines Hinson Hiott Hosey Howard Huggins Jefferson Jennings Kennedy Kirsh Lee Limehouse Littlejohn Loftis Lucas Mahaffey Martin McCraw McGee McLeod Merrill Miller Moody-Lawrence J. M. Neal Neilson Norman Ott Owens Parks Perry Phillips Pinson E. H. Pitts M. A. Pitts Rhoad Rice Scarborough Scott Simrill Sinclair Skelton D. C. Smith G. M. Smith G. R. Smith J. R. Smith Stewart Talley Taylor Thompson Toole Townsend Umphlett Vaughn Vick Walker White Whitmire Wilkins Witherspoon Young
I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Thursday, March 3.
W.E. "Bill" Sandifer Fletcher Smith Joseph Neal Doug Smith Jackson "Seth" Whipper Creighton Coleman Mack Hines David Weeks James E. Smith Thad Viers Todd Rutherford
The SPEAKER granted Rep. COATES a leave of absence due to business reasons.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. LEACH a leave of absence for the day.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. TRIPP a leave of absence to attend a National Conference of Insurance Legislators spring meeting where he chairs a committee.
The SPEAKER granted Rep. SANDIFER a temporary leave of absence.
Announcement was made that Dr. William Simpson of Charleston is the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.
Rep. NEILSON presented to the House the Darlington Dixie Belles Softball Team, the 2004 Dixie Belles World Series Winners, and their coaches.
Reps. HAGOOD, LIMEHOUSE and MERRILL presented to the House the Wando High School "Lady Warriors" Girls Tennis Team, the 2004 Class AAAA Champions, their coach and other school officials.
In accordance with House Rule 5.2 below:
"5.2 Every bill before presentation shall have its title endorsed; every report, its title at length; every petition, memorial, or other paper, its prayer or substance; and, in every instance, the name of the member presenting any paper shall be endorsed and the papers shall be presented by the member to the Speaker at the desk. After a bill or resolution has been presented and given first reading, no further names of co-sponsors may be added. A member may add his name to a bill or resolution or a co-sponsor of a bill or resolution may remove his name at any time prior to the bill or resolution receiving passage on second reading. The member or co-sponsor shall notify the Clerk of the House in writing of his desire to have his name added or removed from the bill or resolution. The Clerk of the House shall print the member's or co-sponsor's written notification in the House Journal. The removal or addition of a name does not apply to a bill or resolution sponsored by a committee."
Bill Number: H. 3167 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 HAMILTON
Bill Number: H. 3167 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 G. R. SMITH
Bill Number: H. 3167 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 MAHAFFEY
Bill Number: H. 3167 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 HERBKERSMAN
Bill Number: H. 3167 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 CHALK
Bill Number: H. 3225 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 J. BROWN
Bill Number: H. 3225 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 OWENS
Bill Number: H. 3225 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 RICE
Bill Number: H. 3338 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 F. N. SMITH
Bill Number: H. 3412 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 D. C. SMITH
Bill Number: H. 3453 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 SCARBOROUGH
Bill Number: H. 3505 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 D. C. SMITH
Bill Number: H. 3506 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 D. C. SMITH
Bill Number: H. 3507 (Word version)
Date: ADD:
03/03/05 D. C. SMITH
Bill Number: H. 3604 (Word version)
Date: REMOVE:
03/03/05 EDGE
The following Bills were taken up, read the second time, and ordered to a third reading:
H. 3683 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Sinclair, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Lee, Davenport and W. D. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 612 OF 1984, RELATING TO THE SPARTANBURG COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS, INCLUDING REQUIRING THAT A PETITION BE FILED IN ORDER TO PLACE A CANDIDATE ON THE BALLOT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INCUMBENT BOARD MEMBER WHO HAS PREVIOUSLY MET THIS PETITION REQUIREMENT AND WHO HAS BEEN IN CONTINUOUS SERVICE IS ONLY REQUIRED TO SUBMIT HIS OR HER NAME AND A ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR FILING FEE AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT IF NO PETITION IS FILED THE BOARD OF EDUCATION MUST APPOINT A SUCCESSOR.
H. 3249 (Word version) -- Reps. White, Walker, Davenport and Mahaffey: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 37, TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF OPTOMETRISTS, SO AS TO CONFORM THIS CHAPTER TO THE STATUTORY AND ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONAL FRAMEWORK ESTABLISHED FOR PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL BOARDS IN CHAPTER 1, TITLE 40, UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION; AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF OPTOMETRISTS, AND AMONG OTHER THINGS, TO PROVIDE THAT A BACHELOR OF ARTS OR BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IS REQUIRED FOR LICENSURE, TO ESTABLISH LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT, TO PROVIDE THAT BY SEPTEMBER 30, 2008, ALL LICENSED OPTOMETRISTS MUST BE LICENSED AS THERAPEUTICALLY-CERTIFIED OPTOMETRISTS, AND TO PROVIDE TRANSITION PROVISIONS.
Rep. PARKS explained the Bill.
S. 319 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Malloy, Moore, Williams, O'Dell, McGill, Short and Leventis: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 2, TITLE 60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE STATE DOCUMENTS DEPOSITORY SYSTEM, SO AS TO REVISE DEFINITIONS AND PROCEDURES IN ORDER TO PROVIDE FOR THE ACQUISITION OF MATERIALS IN BOTH PRINT AND ELECTRONIC FORMATS AND TO DELETE CERTAIN OBSOLETE REFERENCES.
Rep. TOWNSEND explained the Bill.
H. 3347 (Word version) -- Reps. Scott, Cato, Tripp, J. Hines, Hosey, M. Hines, Vaughn, Bales, Battle, Branham, Breeland, R. Brown, Davenport, Hamilton, Haskins, Jennings, Leach, Loftis, Miller, Rhoad, Rivers and G. R. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-1655 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION SHALL ADOPT ONE VOTING SYSTEM TO BE USED TO CONDUCT ELECTIONS IN THIS STATE AND DEFINE "VOTING SYSTEM"; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1320, RELATING TO THE PROCUREMENT AND USE OF VOTE RECORDERS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE USE OF AN "OPTICAL SCAN VOTING SYSTEM" INSTEAD OF "VOTE RECORDERS" FOR USE IN ABSENTEE PRECINCTS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 7-13-1330 AND 7-13-1620, BOTH AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE VOTING MACHINE APPROVAL PROCESS, SO AS TO CHANGE REFERENCES TO AN "OPTICAL SCAN VOTING SYSTEM" AND DELETE REFERENCES TO A SYSTEM BEING APPROVED BY AN INDEPENDENT TESTING AUTHORITY AND TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING DECERTIFICATION BY A VENDER WHEN HE HAS COMMITTED ETHICAL OR TECHNICAL VIOLATIONS IN ANOTHER STATE; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 7-13-1310 RELATING TO THE USE OF VOTE RECORDERS, AND SECTION 7-13-1660 RELATING TO THE ACQUISITION AND USE OF APPROVED VOTING MACHINES BY A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY.
Rep. HARRISON explained the Bill.
On motion of Rep. WALKER, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 3683 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.
On motion of Rep. PARKS, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 3249 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.
On motion of Rep. SCOTT, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 3347 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.
The following Bill was taken up, read the third time, and ordered sent to the Senate:
H. 3665 (Word version) -- Rep. Altman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA BILL OF RIGHTS DAY" BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-166 SO TO ESTABLISH DECEMBER FIFTEENTH OF EACH YEAR AS BILL OF RIGHTS DAY, AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL GOVERNMENTAL BODIES TO OBSERVE THE ANNUAL BILL OF RIGHTS DAY IN A MANNER THAT EMPHASIZES THE DOCUMENT'S MEANING AND IMPORTANCE.
Rep. J. BROWN moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill, which was adopted:
H. 3412 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, Bales, Cotty, Brady, Whipper, Vaughn, Branham, Toole, Taylor and D. C. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-17-410, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EMERGENCY ADMISSIONS TO MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A PATIENT DOES NOT REQUIRE INVOLUNTARY TREATMENT, THE COURT, UPON PROPER NOTICE, SHALL DISMISS THE PETITION FOR COMMITMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 44-17-430, RELATING TO TAKING PERSONS WHO ARE BELIEVED TO BE A DANGER TO THEMSELVES OR OTHERS INTO CUSTODY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN ORDER AUTHORIZING SUCH CUSTODY IS VALID ONLY FOR SEVENTY-TWO HOURS; TO ADD SECTION 44-13-05 SO AS TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURES FOR A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER TO TAKE A PERSON WHO THE OFFICER BELIEVES TO BE MENTALLY ILL INTO PROTECTIVE CUSTODY AND TO PROVIDE IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY; TO AMEND SECTION 44-17-580, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR JUDICIAL COMMITMENT TO A MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY, SO AS TO CLARIFY THESE PROCEDURES AND TO AUTHORIZE THE COURT TO ORDER OUT-PATIENT TREATMENT FOLLOWING IN-PATIENT COMMITMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 44-24-150, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE FAMILY COURT TO COMMIT CERTAIN CHILDREN FOR PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COURT MAY ORDER THAT SUCH AN EVALUATION BE CONDUCTED BY A COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER AND THAT IF AN IN-PATIENT EVALUATION IS RECOMMENDED, THE COURT MAY COMMIT THE CHILD TO A DESIGNATED HOSPITAL FOR UP TO FIFTEEN DAYS FOR SUCH AN EVALUATION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 44-52-50, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR EMERGENCY ADMISSIONS FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG TREATMENT, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT IF A COURT ISSUES AN ORDER TO TAKE A PERSON IN NEED OF SUCH TREATMENT INTO PROTECTIVE CUSTODY, THE ORDER IS VALID ONLY FOR SEVENTY-TWO HOURS.
The following Bill was taken up:
S. 83 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Moore, Campsen, Ryberg, O'Dell, Elliott, Alexander, Gregory, Leatherman, Richardson and Bryant: A BILL TO ENACT THE "TORT REFORM ACT OF 2005 RELATING TO MEDICAL MALPRACTICE" BY AMENDING TITLE 15, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CIVIL REMEDIES AND PROCEDURES, BY ADDING ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 32, SO AS TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURES GOVERNING THE AWARD OF NONECONOMIC DAMAGES; TO AMEND CHAPTER 35, TITLE 15, RELATING TO CIVIL REMEDIES AND PROCEDURES, BY ADDING SECTION 15-35-400, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR OFFERS OF JUDGMENT AFTER COMMENCEMENT OF ANY CIVIL ACTION BASED ON CONTRACT OR SEEKING THE RECOVERY OF MONEY DAMAGES; TO AMEND CHAPTER 36, TITLE 15, RELATING TO CIVIL REMEDIES AND PROCEDURES, BY ADDING SECTION 15-36-100, SO AS TO ESTABLISH STANDARDS FOR EXPERT WITNESSES IN PROFESSIONAL MALPRACTICE ACTIONS; TO AMEND TITLE 15, RELATING TO CIVIL REMEDIES AND PROCEDURES, BY ADDING CHAPTER 79, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR MANDATORY MEDIATION AND TO PERMIT BINDING ARBITRATION IN MEDICAL MALPRACTICE ACTIONS; TO AMEND ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 79, TITLE 38, RELATING TO THE JOINT UNDERWRITING ASSOCIATION AND BOARD OF GOVERNORS FOR THE PATIENTS' COMPENSATION FUND, BY ADDING SECTION 38-79-40, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON SERVING IN THESE AGENCIES FROM BEING EMPLOYED OR COMPENSATED BY EITHER OF THESE AGENCIES; TO AMEND SECTION 38-79-460, RELATING TO THE PATIENTS' COMPENSATION FUND, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FUND SHALL BE MANAGED BY THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS RATHER THAN THE STATE TREASURER; TO AMEND SECTION 38-79-470, RELATING TO THE PATIENTS' COMPENSATION FUND, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MONEY SHALL BE WITHDRAWN FROM THE FUND UPON SIGNATURE OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-211, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO ALTER THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD BY PROVIDING FOR LAY MEMBERS.
The Judiciary Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\MS\7331AHB05), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
SECTION 1. The General Assembly finds that the sections presented in this act constitute one subject as required by Article III, Section 17 of the South Carolina Constitution, in particular finding that each change and each topic relates directly to or in conjunction with other sections to the subject of tort and other civil action reform as clearly enumerated in the title.
The General Assembly further finds that a common purpose or relationship exists among the sections, representing a potential plurality but not disunity of topics, notwithstanding that reasonable minds might differ in identifying more than one topic contained in the act.
SECTION 2. Title 15 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
Noneconomic Damage Awards
Section 15-32-300. This article may be cited as the 'South Carolina Noneconomic Damage Awards Act of 2005'.
Section 15-32-310. As used in this article, unless the context clearly requires otherwise:
(1) 'Ambulatory surgical facility' means a licensed, distinct, freestanding, self-contained entity that is organized, administered, equipped, and operated exclusively for the purpose of performing surgical procedures or related care, treatment, procedures, and/or services, by licensed health care providers, for which patients are scheduled to arrive, receive surgery or related care, treatment, procedures, and/or services, and be discharged on the same day. This term does not include Abortion Clinics.
(2) 'Claimant' means the person suffering personal injury.
(3) 'Economic damages' means pecuniary damages arising from medical expenses and medical care, rehabilitation services, costs associated with education, custodial care, loss of earnings and earning capacity, loss of income, burial costs, loss of use of property, costs of repair or replacement of property, costs of obtaining substitute domestic services, a claim for loss of spousal services, loss of employment, loss of business or employment opportunities, loss of retirement income, and other monetary losses.
(4) 'Health care institution' means an ambulatory surgical facility, a hospital, an institutional general infirmary, a nursing home, and a renal dialysis facility.
(5) 'Health care provider' means a physician, surgeon, osteopath, nurse, oral surgeon, dentist, pharmacist, chiropractor, optometrist, podiatrist, or similar category of licensed health care provider, including a health care practice, association, partnership, or other legal entity.
(6) 'Hospital' means a licensed facility with an organized medical staff to maintain and operate organized facilities and services to accommodate two or more nonrelated persons for the diagnosis, treatment and care of such persons over a period exceeding twenty-four hours and provides medical and surgical care of acute illness, injury or infirmity and may provide obstetrical care, and in which all diagnoses, treatment or care are administered by or performed under the direction of persons currently licensed to practice medicine and surgery in the State of South Carolina. This term includes a hospital that provides specialized service for one type of care, such as tuberculosis, maternity, or orthopedics.
(7) 'Institutional general infirmary' means a licensed facility which is established within the jurisdiction of a larger nonmedical institution and which maintains and operates organized facilities and services to accommodate two or more nonrelated students, residents, or inmates with illness, injury, or infirmity for a period exceeding twenty-four hours for the diagnosis, treatment and care of such persons and which provides medical, surgical, and professional nursing care, and in which all diagnoses, treatment or care are administered by or performed under the direction of persons currently licensed to practice medicine and surgery in the State of South Carolina.
(8) 'Medical malpractice' means doing that which the reasonably prudent health care provider or health care institution would not do or not doing that which the reasonably prudent health care provider or health care institution would do in the same or similar circumstances.
(9) 'Noneconomic damages' means nonpecuniary damages arising from pain, suffering, inconvenience, physical impairment, disfigurement, mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of society and companionship, loss of consortium, injury to reputation, humiliation, other nonpecuniary damages, and any other theory of damages including, but not limited to, fear of loss, illness, or injury.
(10) 'Nursing home' means a licensed facility with an organized nursing staff to maintain and operate organized facilities and services to accommodate two or more unrelated persons over a period exceeding twenty-four hours which is operated either in connection with a hospital or as a freestanding facility for the express or implied purpose of providing skilled nursing services for persons who are not in need of hospital care. This term does not include assisted living, independent living, or community residential care facilities that do not provide skilled nursing services.
(11) 'Personal injury' means injuries to the person including, but not limited to, bodily injuries, mental distress or suffering, loss of wages, loss of services, loss of consortium, wrongful death, survival, and other noneconomic damages and actual economic damages.
(12) 'Personal injury action' means an action for personal injury, including a wrongful death action pursuant to Sections 15-51-10 through 15-51-60 and a survival action pursuant to Section 15-5-90.
(13) 'Renal dialysis facility' means an outpatient facility which offers staff assisted dialysis or training and supported services for self-dialysis to end-stage renal disease patients.
(14) 'Skilled nursing services' means services that:
(a) are ordered by a physician;
(b) require the skills of technical or professional personnel such as registered nurses, licensed practical (vocational) nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists or audiologists; and
(c) are furnished directly by, or under the supervision of such personnel.
Section 15-32-320. (A) In an action on a medical malpractice claim when final judgment is rendered against a single health care provider the limit of civil liability for noneconomic damages of the health care provider is limited to an amount not to exceed three hundred fifty thousand dollars for each claimant, regardless of the number of separate causes of action on which the claim is based, except as provided in subsection (E).
(B) In an action on a medical malpractice claim when final judgment is rendered against a single health care institution, the limit of civil liability for noneconomic damages is limited to an amount not to exceed three hundred fifty thousand dollars for each claimant, regardless of the number of separate causes of action on which the claim is based, except as provided in subsection (E).
(C) In an action on a medical malpractice claim when final judgment is rendered against more than one health care institution, or more than one health care provider, or any combination thereof, the limit of civil liability for noneconomic damages for each health care institution and each health care provider is limited to an amount not to exceed three hundred fifty thousand dollars for each claimant and the limit of civil liability for noneconomic damages for all health care institutions and health care providers is limited to an amount not to exceed one million, fifty thousand dollars for each claimant.
(D)(1) The provisions of this section do not limit the amount of compensation for economic damages suffered by each claimant in a medical malpractice claim.
(2) The provisions of this section do not limit the amount of punitive damages in cases where the plaintiff is able to prove an entitlement to an award of punitive damages as required by law.
(E) The limitations for noneconomic damages rendered against any health care provider do not apply if the jury or court determines that the defendant was grossly negligent, wilful, wanton, or reckless, and such conduct was the proximate cause of the claimant's noneconomic damages, or if the defendant has engaged in fraud or misrepresentation related to the claim, or if the defendant altered, destroyed, concealed, or fabricated medical records with the purpose of avoiding a claim or liability to the claimant.
(F) At the end of each calendar year, the State Budget and Control Board, Board of Economic Advisors must determine the increase or decrease in the ratio of the Consumer Price Index to the index as of December 31 of the previous year, and the limitation on compensation for noneconomic damages pursuant to subsection (A), (B), or (C) must be increased or decreased accordingly. As soon as practicable after this adjustment is calculated, the Director of the State Budget and Control Board shall submit the revised limitation on compensation to The State Register for publication pursuant to Section 1-23-40(2), and the revised limitation becomes effective upon publication in The State Register. For purposes of this subsection, 'Consumer Price Index' means the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers as published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Section 15-32-330. (A) In an action involving a medical malpractice claim arising out of care rendered in a genuine emergency situation involving an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury to the patient receiving care in an emergency department or in an obstetrical or surgical suite, no physician may be held liable unless it is proven that the physician was grossly negligent. This exception does not apply when a patient is medically stable, is not in immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury or has been discharged from the hospital.
(B) In an action involving a medical malpractice claim arising out of care rendered by an obstetrician on an emergency basis when there is no previous doctor/patient relationship between the obstetrician or a member of his practice with a patient or the patient has not received prenatal care, an obstetrician is not liable unless it is proven the obstetrician is grossly negligent.
Section 15-32-340. The provisions of this article do not affect any right, privilege, or provision of the South Carolina Tort Claims Act pursuant to Chapter 78, Title 15 or the South Carolina Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act as contained in Chapter 56, Title 33."
SECTION 3. Chapter 35, Title 15 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 15-35-400. (A) Except in domestic relations actions, after commencement of any civil action based upon contract or seeking the recovery of money damages, whether or not other relief is sought, any party may, at any time more than twenty days before the actual trial date, file with the clerk of the court a written offer of judgment signed by the offeror or his attorney, directed to the opposing party, offering to take judgment in the offeror's favor, or as the case may be, to allow judgment to be taken against the offeror, for a sum stated therein, for property, or to the effect specified in the offer. The offeror shall give notice of the offer of judgment to the offeree's attorney, or if the offeree is not represented by an attorney, to the offeree himself, in accordance with the service rules for motions and other pleadings set forth in the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. Within twenty days after notification, or at least ten days prior to the trial date, whichever date is earlier, the offeree or his attorney may file with the clerk of the court a written acceptance of the offer of judgment. Upon the filing, the clerk shall enter immediately judgment of the stipulation. If the offer of judgment is not accepted within twenty days after notification or prior to or on the tenth day before the actual trial date, whichever date occurs first, the offer shall be considered rejected and evidence thereof is not to be admissible except in a proceeding after the trial to fix costs, interests, attorney's fees, and other recoverable monies. Any offeror may withdraw an offer of judgment prior to its acceptance or prior to the date on which it would be considered rejected by giving notice to the offeree or his attorney in accordance with the service rules for motions and other pleadings outlined in the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. Any offeror may file a subsequent offer of judgment in any amount provided that the subsequent offer supercedes any earlier offer that was rejected by the offeree or withdrawn by the offeror, and, on filing, terminates any rights of interest or costs that may have been applicable to the superceded offer. Notwithstanding this provision, an offer is not considered rejected upon the making of a counteroffer by the offeree, but shall remain effective until accepted, rejected, or withdrawn as provided in this subsection. Any and all offers of judgment and any acceptance of offers of judgment must be included by the clerk in the record of the case.
(B) If an offer of judgment is not accepted and the offeror obtains a verdict or determination at least as favorable as the rejected offer, the offeror shall be allowed to recover from the offeree:
(1) any administrative, filing, or other court costs from the date of the offer until judgment;
(2) if the offeror is a plaintiff, eight percent interest computed on the amount of the verdict or award from the date of the offer; or
(3) if the offeror is a defendant, a reduction from the judgment or award of eight percent interest computed on the amount of the verdict or award from the date of the offer.
(C) This section shall not be interpreted to abrogate the contractual rights of any party concerning the recovery of attorney's fees or other monies in accordance with the provisions of any written contract between the parties to the action."
SECTION 4. Chapter 36, Title 15 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 15-36-100. (A) As used in this section, 'expert witness' means an expert who is qualified as to the acceptable conduct of the professional whose conduct is at issue and who:
(1) is licensed by an appropriate regulatory agency to practice his or her profession in the location in which the expert practices or teaches; and
(2)(a) is board certified by a national or international association or academy which administers written and oral examinations for certification in the area of practice or specialty about which the opinion on the standard of care is offered; or
(b) has actual professional knowledge and experience in the area of practice or specialty in which the opinion is to be given as the result of having been regularly engaged in:
(i) the active practice of the area of specialty of his or her profession for at least three of the last five years immediately preceding the opinion;
(ii) the teaching of the area of practice or specialty of his or her profession for at least half of his or her professional time as an employed member of the faculty of an educational institution which is accredited in the teaching of his or her profession for at least three of the last five years immediately preceding the opinion; or
(iii) any combination of the active practice or the teaching of his or her profession in a manner which meets the requirements of subitems (i) and (ii) for at least three of the last five years immediately preceding the opinion;
(3) is an individual not covered by subsections (A)(1) or (2), that has scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge which may assist the trier of fact in understanding the evidence and determining a fact or issue in the case, by reason of the individual's study, experience, or both. However, an affidavit filed pursuant to subsection (B) by an expert qualified under this subsection must contain an explanation of the expert's credentials and why the expert is qualified to conduct the review required by subsection (B). The defendant is entitled to challenge the sufficiency of the expert's credentials pursuant to subsection (E).
(B) In an action for damages alleging professional negligence against a professional licensed by or registered with the State of South Carolina and listed in subsection (G) or against any licensed health care facility alleged to be liable based upon the action or inaction of a health care professional licensed by the State of South Carolina and listed in subsection (G), the plaintiff must file as part of the complaint an affidavit of an expert witness which must specify at least one negligent act or omission claimed to exist and the factual basis for each claim based on the available evidence at the time of the filing of the affidavit.
(C)(1) The contemporaneous filing requirement of subsection (B) does not apply to any case in which the period of limitation will expire, or there is a good faith basis to believe it will expire on a claim stated in the complaint, within ten days of the date of filing and, because of the time constraints, the plaintiff alleges that an affidavit of an expert could not be prepared. In such a case, the plaintiff has forty-five days after the filing of the complaint to supplement the pleadings with the affidavit. Upon motion, the trial court, after hearing and for good cause, may extend the time as the court determines justice requires. If an affidavit is not filed within the period specified in this subsection or as extended by the trial court and the defendant against whom an affidavit should have been filed alleges, by motion to dismiss filed contemporaneously with its initial responsive pleading that the plaintiff has failed to file the requisite affidavit, the complaint is subject to dismissal for failure to state a claim. The filing of a motion to dismiss pursuant to this section, shall alter the period for filing an answer to the complaint in accordance with Rule 12(a), South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
(2) The contemporaneous filing requirement of subsection (B) is not required to support a pleaded specification of negligence involving subject matter that lies within the ambit of common knowledge and experience, so that no special learning is needed to evaluate the conduct of the defendant.
(D) This section does not extend an applicable period of limitation, except that if the affidavit is filed within the period specified in this section, the filing of the affidavit after the expiration of the statute of limitations is considered timely and provides no basis for a statute of limitations defense.
(E) If a plaintiff files an affidavit which is allegedly defective, and the defendant to whom it pertains alleges, with specificity, by motion to dismiss filed contemporaneously with its initial responsive pleading, that the affidavit is defective, the plaintiff's complaint is subject to dismissal for failure to state a claim, except that the plaintiff may cure the alleged defect by amendment within thirty days of service of the motion alleging that the affidavit is defective. The trial court may, in the exercise of its discretion, extend the time for filing an amendment or response to the motion, or both, as the trial court determines justice requires. The filing of a motion to dismiss pursuant to this section shall alter the period for filing an answer to the complaint in accordance with Rule 12(a), South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
(F) If a plaintiff fails to file an affidavit as required by this section, and the defendant raises the failure to file an affidavit by motion to dismiss filed contemporaneously with its initial responsive pleading, the complaint is not subject to renewal after the expiration of the applicable period of limitation unless a court determines that the plaintiff had the requisite affidavit within the time required pursuant to this section and the failure to file the affidavit is the result of a mistake. The filing of a motion to dismiss pursuant to this section shall alter the period for filing an answer to the complaint in accordance with Rule 12(a), South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
(G) This section applies to the following professions:
(1) architects;
(2) attorneys at law;
(3) certified public accountants;
(4) chiropractors;
(5) dentists;
(6) land surveyors;
(7) medical doctors;
(8) marriage and family therapists;
(9) nurses;
(10) occupational therapists;
(11) optometrists;
(12) osteopathic physicians;
(13) pharmacists;
(14) physical therapists;
(15) physicians' assistants;
(16) professional counselors;
(17) professional engineers;
(18) podiatrists;
(19) psychologists;
(20) radiological technicians;
(21) respiratory therapists; and
(22) veterinarians."
SECTION 5. Title 15 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
(1) 'Ambulatory surgical facility' means a licensed, distinct, freestanding, self-contained entity that is organized, administered, equipped, and operated exclusively for the purpose of performing surgical procedures or related care, treatment, procedures, and/or services, by licensed health care providers, for which patients are scheduled to arrive, receive surgery or related care, treatment, procedures, and/or services, and be discharged on the same day. This term does not include Abortion Clinics.
(2) 'Health care institution' means an ambulatory surgical facility, a hospital, an institutional general infirmary, a nursing home, and a renal dialysis facility.
(3) 'Health care provider' means a physician, surgeon, osteopath, nurse, oral surgeon, dentist, pharmacist, chiropractor, optometrist, podiatrist, or any similar category of licensed health care provider, including a health care practice, association, partnership, or other legal entity.
(4) 'Hospital' means a licensed facility with an organized medical staff to maintain and operate organized facilities and services to accommodate two or more nonrelated persons for the diagnosis, treatment and care of such persons over a period exceeding twenty-four hours and provides medical and surgical care of acute illness, injury or infirmity and may provide obstetrical care, and in which all diagnoses, treatment or care are administered by or performed under the direction of persons currently licensed to practice medicine and surgery in the State of South Carolina. This term includes a hospital that provides specialized service for one type of care, such as tuberculosis, maternity, or orthopedics.
(5) 'Institutional general infirmary' means a licensed facility which is established within the jurisdiction of a larger nonmedical institution and which maintains and operates organized facilities and services to accommodate two or more nonrelated students, residents or inmates with illness, injury or infirmity for a period exceeding twenty-four hours for the diagnosis, treatment and care of such persons and which provides medical, surgical and professional nursing care, and in which all diagnoses, treatment or care are administered by or performed under the direction of persons currently licensed to practice medicine and surgery in the State of South Carolina.
(6) 'Medical malpractice' means doing that which the reasonably prudent health care provider or health care institution would not do or not doing that which the reasonably prudent health care provider or health care institution would do in the same or similar circumstances.
(7) 'Nursing home' means a licensed facility with an organized nursing staff to maintain and operate organized facilities and services to accommodate two or more unrelated persons over a period exceeding twenty-four hours which is operated either in connection with a hospital or as a freestanding facility for the express or implied purpose of providing skilled nursing services for persons who are not in need of hospital care. This term does not include assisted living, independent living, or community residential care facilities that do not provide skilled nursing services.
(8) 'Renal dialysis facility' means an outpatient facility which offers staff assisted dialysis or training and supported services for self-dialysis to end-stage renal disease patients.
(9) 'Skilled nursing services' means services that:
(a) are ordered by a physician;
(b) require the skills of technical or professional personnel such as registered nurses, licensed practical (vocational) nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists or audiologists; and
(c) are furnished directly by, or under the supervision of such personnel.
Section 15-79-120. At any time before a medical malpractice action is brought to trial, the parties shall participate in mediation governed by procedures established in the South Carolina Circuit Court Alternative Dispute Resolution Rules in effect at the time for the State or any portion of the State. Parties may also agree to participate in binding arbitration.
Section 15-79-125. (A) Prior to filing or initiating a civil action alleging injury or death as a result of medical malpractice, the plaintiff shall file a Notice of Intent to File Suit in a county in which venue would be proper for filing or initiating the civil action. The notice must name all adverse parties as defendants, must contain a short and plain statement of the facts showing that the party filing the notice is entitled to relief, must be signed by the plaintiff or by his attorney, and must include any standard interrogatories or similar disclosures required by the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. Filing the Notice of Intent to File Suit tolls all applicable statutes of limitations. The Notice of Intent to File Suit must be served upon all named defendants in accordance with the service rules for a summons and complaint outlined in the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
(B) After the Notice of Intent to File Suit is filed and served, all named parties may subpoena medical records and other documents potentially related to the medical malpractice claim pursuant to the rules governing the service and enforcement of subpoenas outlined in the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. Upon leave of court, the named parties also may take depositions pursuant to the rules governing discovery outlined in the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
(C) Within ninety days and no later than one hundred twenty days from the service of the Notice of Intent to File Suit, the parties shall participate in a mediation conference unless an extension for no more than sixty days is granted by the court based upon a finding of good cause. Unless inconsistent with this section, the Circuit Court Alternative Dispute Resolution Rules in effect at the time of the mediation conference for all or any part of the State shall govern the mediation process, including compensation of the mediator and payment of the fees and expenses of the mediation conference. The parties otherwise are responsible for their own expenses related to mediation pursuant to this section.
(D) The circuit court has jurisdiction to enforce the provisions of this section.
(E) If the matter cannot be resolved through mediation, the plaintiff may initiate the civil action by filing a summons and complaint pursuant to the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. The action must be filed:
(1) within sixty days after the mediator determines that the mediation is not viable, that an impasse exists, or that the mediation should end; or
(2) prior to expiration of the statute of limitations, whichever is later.
(F) Participation in the prelitigation mediation pursuant to this section does not alter or eliminate any obligation of the parties to participate in alternative dispute resolution after the civil action is initiated.
Section 15-79-130. If a judge finds that an expert health care provider or health care institution in a medical malpractice action in this State has offered testimony or evidence in bad faith or without a reasonable basis in fact or otherwise acted unethically in conjunction with testifying as an expert in deposition or at trial, the judge must report the expert to the state entity that licenses and regulates the profession of the expert or the type of health care entity represented by the expert."
SECTION 6. Article 1, Chapter 79, Title 38 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 38-79-40. (A) A person who serves on the Board of the Joint Underwriting Association or the Board of Governors of the Patients' Compensation Fund is prohibited from being employed in any manner or compensated by the Joint Underwriting Association or the Patients' Compensation Fund, and this prohibition continues for one year after the person ceases to be a member of the board.
(B) No provision of this section may be construed to prohibit an insurance agent from selling insurance products to the association or from receiving commissions as a result of selling insurance products to the association."
SECTION 7 . Article 3, Chapter 79, Title 38 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 38-79-155. (A) All medical malpractice insurance carriers issuing policies of insurance within South Carolina for licensed health care providers, as defined in Section 38-79-410, shall provide and maintain coverage to all applicants who timely remit payments for the coverage period.
(B) Such policies shall be written on either a 'claims-made' or 'occurrence' basis in compliance with the standard set by the board of directors of the Joint Underwriters Association pursuant to Section 38-79-190.
(C) The provisions of this section apply only to policies written on or after January 1, 2006."
SECTION 8. Section 38-79-460 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:
"Section 38-79-460. The Fund fund, and any income from it, must be held in trust, deposited in the office of the State Treasurer and kept in a segregated account entitled 'Patients' Compensation Fund', invested and reinvested by the State Treasurer in the same manner as provided by law for the investment of other state funds in interest-bearing investments and may not become a part of the general fund of the State. All expenses of collecting, protecting, and administering the Fund must be paid from the Fund managed by the board according to its plan of operation developed pursuant to Section 38-79-430."
SECTION 9. Section 38-79-470(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:
"(1) Monies may be withdrawn from the Fund fund only upon the signature of the chairman of the Board of Governors or his designee upon written warrants of the Comptroller General, drawn on the State Treasurer to the payee designated in the requisition."
SECTION 10. Section 40-47-200 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"(K) If a person's license is suspended by any board for any reason, it shall report that action to the licensee's last known employer and, if applicable, to any place where the person has been granted privileges to practice medicine."
SECTION 11. Section 40-47-211 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:
"Section 40-47-211. (A) There is created the Medical Disciplinary Commission of the State Board of Medical Examiners to be composed of thirty-six forty-eight members. The members of the commission Of these, thirty-six must be licensed physicians practicing their profession,. and five Five physician commissioners must be elected from each of the six congressional districts, and six physician members of the commission must be elected at large from across the State. The board shall conduct the elections, and the elections for the physician members shall provide for participation by any physician currently licensed and actively practicing medicine in South Carolina and residing in the congressional district in which the election is held. At-large physician members must be currently licensed and actively practicing medicine in South Carolina and must reside within the State at the time of election and throughout their term terms. One physician commissioner initially elected from each district shall serve for a term of one year and until his successor is elected and qualifies, one physician commissioner initially elected from each district shall serve for a term of two years and until his successor is elected and qualifies, and one physician commissioner initially elected from each district shall serve for a term of three years and until his successor is elected and qualifies. The successors of the initial physician commissioners shall serve for terms of three years or until their successors are elected and qualify. The members of the commission are limited to three consecutive terms. The members appointed to the board may not simultaneously serve as a commissioner. In case of any vacancy by way of death, resignation, or otherwise, the board shall appoint a successor to serve for the unexpired term must be filled in the same manner as the position originally was filled. Where justice, fairness, or other circumstances so require, the board may appoint past commissioners to hear complaints in individual cases.
(B) Twelve members of the commission must be lay commissioners who each must have, at a minimum, a baccalaureate degree or the equivalent, and have no ascertainable ties to the health care industry. Two lay commissioners must be appointed by the Governor from each of the six congressional districts, with the advice and consent of the General Assembly. Each lay commissioner must be a registered voter and reside in the congressional district he represents throughout his term. Each lay commissioner initially appointed from each district shall serve for a term of three years and until his successor is appointed and qualifies. The lay commissioners are limited to three consecutive terms.
(C) The commission is empowered to investigate and hear those complaints against physicians (medical and osteopathic) filed with the board pursuant to Section 40-47-200. The hearing must be conducted in accordance with Act 176 of 1977 (Administrative Procedures Act) and with regulations promulgated by the board and must be before a panel composed of at least three commissioners designated by the board, and one of those three commissioners must be a lay member. The panel is empowered to hear the matters complained of and to make findings of fact and recommendations as to disposition of those matters to the board. The panel shall make a certified report of the proceedings before it, including its findings of fact, conclusions, and recommendations, which must be filed together with a transcript of the testimony taken and exhibits as may have been in evidence before it with the administrator of the board, and a copy of the report must be delivered to the office of general counsel and the licensee or his counsel."
SECTION 12. Section 40-71-10, as last amended by Act 296 of 2004, is further amended to read:
"Section 40-71-10. (A) 'Professional society' as used in this chapter includes legal, medical, osteopathic, optometric, chiropractic, psychological, dental, accounting, pharmaceutic, and engineering organizations having as members at least a majority of the eligible licentiates in the area served by the particular society and any foundations composed of members of these societies. It also includes the South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation Council.
(B) There is no monetary liability on the part of, and no cause of action for damages arises against, a member of an appointed committee which is formed to maintain professional standards of a state or local professional society as defined in this section or an appointed member of a committee of a medical staff of a licensed hospital, provided the medical staff operates pursuant to written bylaws that have been approved by the governing board of the hospital, or a committee appointed by the Department of Health and Environmental Control to review patient medical and health records in order to study the causes of death and disease for any act or proceeding undertaken or performed within the scope of the functions of the committee if the committee member acts without malice, has made a reasonable effort to obtain the facts relating to the matter under consideration, and acts in the belief that the action taken by him is warranted by the facts known to him.
(C) The provisions of this section do not affect the official immunity of an officer or employee of a public corporation."
SECTION 13. Chapter 71, Title 40 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 40-71-30. When a party asserts a claim of confidentiality over documents pursuant to Section 40-71-20 and the party seeking the documents objects, the documents must be filed under seal with the circuit court having jurisdiction over the pending action and are subject to judicial review by the circuit court judge. If the court determines that any of the documents are not subject to confidentiality pursuant to Section 40-71-20 and are otherwise discoverable, the court shall provide the documents to the requesting party and shall assess attorneys' fees against the party unsuccessfully asserting the claim of privilege for any fees incurred by the requesting party in obtaining the documents."
SECTION 14. The Department of Insurance shall review data reported on annual statements by liability insurers, including, but not limited to, paid claims, reserves, loss adjustment expenses, and such additional data as the department may require by promulgation of bulletin, to determine savings related to a decrease in litigation and claims paid pursuant to litigation after the effective date of this act. The department may require special reports from insurers to determine if savings are realized as a result of the provisions of this act. The department shall compile a report of savings realized and submit it for General Assembly review upon request. Costs or expenses associated with the compilation of this report of savings shall be paid by the insurers pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 13 of Title 38. The Department of Insurance shall review premium and losses by line of insurance to determine if appropriate adjustments have been made based upon the department estimates of savings realized pursuant to the provisions of this act.
SECTION 15. As a majority of the health care community is insured through the South Carolina Medical Malpractice Joint Underwriting Association and the Patients' Compensation Fund and as it is essential for the General Assembly to understand the effects of changes to tort laws, the South Carolina Department of Insurance is given authority to request data regarding changes in claims practices from the South Carolina Medical Malpractice Joint Underwriting Association and the Patients' Compensation Fund. Such data may include paid claims, paid loss adjustment expense, case reserves, bulk reserves, and claim counts by quarter for the previous five years. The department may make such a request of the South Carolina Medical Malpractice Joint Underwriting Association and the Patients' Compensation Fund and such information must be provided within thirty days.
The Department of Insurance shall report annually to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Governor as to whether this and other related enactments have resulted in reductions in premiums and as to any other trends of significance which might impact premium cost.
SECTION 16. The provisions of this act do not affect any right, privilege, or provision of the South Carolina Tort Claims Act as contained in Chapter 78, Title 15 of the 1976 Code of South Carolina or the South Carolina Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act as contained in Chapter 56 of Title 33.
SECTION 17. The repeal or amendment by this act of any law, whether temporary or permanent or civil or criminal, does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities founded thereon, or alter, discharge, release or extinguish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under the repealed or amended law, unless the repealed or amended provision shall so expressly provide. After the effective date of this act, all laws repealed or amended by this act must be taken and treated as remaining in full force and effect for the purpose of sustaining any pending or vested right, civil action, special proceeding, criminal prosecution, or appeal existing as of the effective date of this act, and for the enforcement of rights, duties, penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities as they stood under the repealed or amended laws.
SECTION 18. If any section, subsection, item, subitem, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, item, subitem, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, items, subitems, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words hereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.
SECTION 19. Upon approval by the Governor, this act takes effect July 1, 2005, for claims arising after July 1, 2005, except that as of this act's effective date, the State Treasurer shall relinquish the management of funds in the Patients' Compensation Fund, created pursuant to Section 38-79-420, to the Board of Governors of the fund, and premiums paid on or after this act's effective date must be deposited with the Board of Governors of the fund. The fund must be fully transferred to the Board of Governors, and the State Treasurer may not hold any deposits of the fund as of ninety days after this act's effective date. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. DELLENEY explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.
The Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.
On motion of Rep. HARRISON, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that S. 83 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.
The following Bill was taken up:
H. 3682 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 41-35-125 SO AS TO ALLOW BENEFITS FOR INDIVIDUALS UNEMPLOYED AS A DIRECT RESULT OF DOMESTIC ABUSE, TO AMEND SECTION 41-31-125, RELATING TO THE ASSIGNMENT OF THE EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT RECORD OF AN EMPLOYMENT UNIT IN A BUSINESS ACQUISITION OR REORGANIZATION WITH CONTINUITY OF CONTROL FOR PURPOSES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA EMPLOYMENT SECURITY LAW, SO AS TO REQUIRE A VIOLATION TO BE KNOWING RATHER THAN WILFUL AND TO DEFINE "KNOWINGLY" AND "KNOWING" AND TO REQUIRE THE SOUTH CAROLINA EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURES TO IDENTIFY THE TRANSFER OF A BUSINESS, TO AMEND SECTION 41-35-120, RELATING TO DISQUALIFICATION FOR BENEFITS OF AN INSURED WORKER UNDER THE EMPLOYMENT SECURITY LAW, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE WORKER IS INELIGIBLE FOR BENEFITS IF HE REFUSES TO TAKE A DRUG TEST OR TESTS POSITIVE DURING A DRUG TEST FOR CERTAIN SUBSTANCES, TO PROVIDE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG TESTING AND TO ALLOW INFORMATION RECEIVED BY AN EMPLOYER IN A DRUG-TESTING PROGRAM TO BE RECEIVED IN EVIDENCE IN A PROCEEDING DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY FOR UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION, AND TO AMEND SECTION 41-35-130, RELATING TO UNEMPLOYMENT PAYMENTS NOT CHARGEABLE TO A FORMER EMPLOYER, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BENEFITS PAID IN CONNECTION WITH A DOMESTIC ABUSE-RELATED JOB LOSS MUST NOT BE CHARGED TO THE ACCOUNT OF A CONTRIBUTING EMPLOYER.
Rep. CATO made the Point of Order that the Bill was improperly before the House for consideration since its number and title have not been printed in the House Calendar at least one statewide legislative day prior to second reading.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.
The following Bills were taken up, read the third time, and ordered sent to the Senate:
H. 3381 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Skelton, Jennings, W. D. Smith, Townsend, Merrill, Ott, Rice, Mack, Clark, Simrill, Harrison, Davenport, M. Hines, Harvin, Bailey, Bingham, Chellis, Clemmons, Cooper, Dantzler, Duncan, Edge, Harrell, Haskins, Herbkersman, Hinson, Kirsh, Leach, Lloyd, Loftis, Mahaffey, Martin, McCraw, McGee, Owens, Perry, E. H. Pitts, Sandifer, Scott, Stewart, Thompson, Toole, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, Vick, White, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Young, Viers and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 14 TO TITLE 39 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA LANDOWNER AND ADVERTISING PROTECTION AND PROPERTY VALUATION ACT", TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE ACT, TO EMPOWER LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO REQUIRE THE REMOVAL OF NONCONFORMING OFF-PREMISES OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGNS AND TO REGULATE THE USE OF THEM, TO AUTHORIZE LOCAL GOVERNING BODIES TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENTS WITH SIGN OWNERS TO RELOCATE AND RECONSTRUCT SIGNS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE PAYMENT OF JUST COMPENSATION WHEN A SIGN IS REMOVED WITHOUT AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ARBITRATION BETWEEN THE PARTIES WHEN THEY FAIL TO REACH AN AGREEMENT.
H. 3155 (Word version) -- Reps. Townsend, Wilkins, Walker, Littlejohn, Battle, Clark, Cobb-Hunter, Simrill, Sandifer, Haley, Brady, Hagood, Talley, G. R. Smith and Neilson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 59 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACT WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A CURRICULUM ORGANIZED AROUND A CAREER CLUSTER SYSTEM THAT MUST PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH BOTH STRONG ACADEMICS AND REAL-WORLD PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-17-135, RELATING TO CHARACTER EDUCATION, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE TRAITS WHICH MUST BE INCORPORATED INTO SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES ADDRESSING CHARACTER EDUCATION; TO AMEND SECTION 59-18-900, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SCHOOL REPORT CARDS, SO AS TO EXPAND THE CONTENT OF THE REPORT CARD TO INCLUDE, DROPOUT REDUCTION DATA; AND TO REPEAL ACT 450 OF 1994 AND SECTION 59-52-95 RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOL-TO-WORK TRANSITION ACT OF 1994.
The motion period was dispensed with on motion of Rep. MERRILL.
Debate was resumed on the following Bill, the pending question being the consideration of the motion to commit the Bill to the Committee on Judiciary:
S. 1 (Word version) -- Senators Ryberg, Hutto, Lourie, Drummond, Land, Moore, Matthews, McGill, O'Dell, Reese, Hayes, Gregory, Jackson, Martin, Rankin, Short, Richardson, Ritchie, Cromer, J. V. Smith, Leatherman, Fair and Patterson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-6450, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CHILD PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A FINE FOR A VIOLATION OF THE LAW MUST NOT BE WAIVED; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-6530, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS TO THE MANDATORY USE OF SAFETY BELTS AND CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT OCCUPANTS OF THE BACK SEAT OF A MOTOR VEHICLE ARE NOT EXEMPT FROM THE SAFETY BELT REQUIREMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-6540, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE SAFETY BELT LAW AND CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL FUNDS COLLECTED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION MUST BE DEPOSITED IN THE STATE GENERAL FUND, A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER MAY NOT SEARCH A VEHICLE STOPPED SOLELY FOR A PRIMARY SAFETY BELT VIOLATION, A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER MAY STOP A DRIVER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE FOR ANY PRIMARY VIOLATION OF A PROVISION THAT REQUIRES A DRIVER OR PASSENGER TO WEAR A SAFETY BELT OR A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM, A PERSON MUST NOT BE CONVICTED FOR A PRIMARY SAFETY BELT VIOLATION EXCEPT UPON PROOF BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT, A VIOLATION OF THE MANDATORY SAFETY BELT LAW MAY BE TRIED BEFORE EITHER A JUDGE OR A JURY, AND A CONVICTION FOR A VIOLATION OF THE STATE'S MANDATORY SAFETY BELT LAW IS APPEALABLE TO THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS.
Rep. MERRILL moved to table the motion to commit, which was agreed to.
Rep. MERRILL moved that the House recur to the Morning Hour, which was agreed to.
Further proceedings were interrupted by the House recurring to the Morning Hour, the pending question being consideration of Amendment No. 6.
The following was introduced:
H. 3704 (Word version) -- Reps. Taylor, Duncan and M. A. Pitts: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND CONGRATULATE COURTNEY ROBERTSON FOR BEING CHOSEN AS THE CLINTON CHRONICLE'S 2005 TEACHER OF THE YEAR.
The Resolution was adopted.
The following Bill was taken up:
H. 3412 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, Bales, Cotty, Brady, Whipper, Vaughn, Branham, Toole, Taylor and D. C. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-17-410, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EMERGENCY ADMISSIONS TO MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A PATIENT DOES NOT REQUIRE INVOLUNTARY TREATMENT, THE COURT, UPON PROPER NOTICE, SHALL DISMISS THE PETITION FOR COMMITMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 44-17-430, RELATING TO TAKING PERSONS WHO ARE BELIEVED TO BE A DANGER TO THEMSELVES OR OTHERS INTO CUSTODY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN ORDER AUTHORIZING SUCH CUSTODY IS VALID ONLY FOR SEVENTY-TWO HOURS; TO ADD SECTION 44-13-05 SO AS TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURES FOR A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER TO TAKE A PERSON WHO THE OFFICER BELIEVES TO BE MENTALLY ILL INTO PROTECTIVE CUSTODY AND TO PROVIDE IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY; TO AMEND SECTION 44-17-580, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR JUDICIAL COMMITMENT TO A MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY, SO AS TO CLARIFY THESE PROCEDURES AND TO AUTHORIZE THE COURT TO ORDER OUT-PATIENT TREATMENT FOLLOWING IN-PATIENT COMMITMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 44-24-150, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE FAMILY COURT TO COMMIT CERTAIN CHILDREN FOR PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COURT MAY ORDER THAT SUCH AN EVALUATION BE CONDUCTED BY A COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER AND THAT IF AN IN-PATIENT EVALUATION IS RECOMMENDED, THE COURT MAY COMMIT THE CHILD TO A DESIGNATED HOSPITAL FOR UP TO FIFTEEN DAYS FOR SUCH AN EVALUATION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 44-52-50, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR EMERGENCY ADMISSIONS FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG TREATMENT, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT IF A COURT ISSUES AN ORDER TO TAKE A PERSON IN NEED OF SUCH TREATMENT INTO PROTECTIVE CUSTODY, THE ORDER IS VALID ONLY FOR SEVENTY-TWO HOURS.
Rep. J. BROWN made the Point of Order that the Bill was improperly before the House for consideration since its number and title have not been printed in the House Calendar at least one statewide legislative day prior to second reading.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.
On motion of Rep. HARRELL, with unanimous consent, the following Bill was ordered recalled from the Committee on Ways and Means:
H. 3067 (Word version) -- Reps. J. R. Smith, Clark, Clyburn, Perry, D. C. Smith, Stewart and G. R. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-14-60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT AGAINST STATE INCOME TAX ALLOWED FOR ECONOMIC IMPACT ZONE QUALIFIED MANUFACTURING AND PRODUCTIVE EQUIPMENT PROPERTY, SO AS TO EXTEND FOR CERTAIN TAXPAYERS THE TEN-YEAR CARRY-FORWARD PERIOD FOR UNUSED TAX CREDITS AND PROVIDE THE REQUIREMENTS NECESSARY FOR A TAXPAYER TO RECEIVE THE ADDITIONAL CARRY-FORWARD PERIOD.
The motion period was dispensed with on motion of Rep. HAMILTON.
Debate was resumed on the following Bill, the pending question being the consideration of Amendment No. 6:
S. 1 (Word version) -- Senators Ryberg, Hutto, Lourie, Drummond, Land, Moore, Matthews, McGill, O'Dell, Reese, Hayes, Gregory, Jackson, Martin, Rankin, Short, Richardson, Ritchie, Cromer, J. V. Smith, Leatherman, Fair and Patterson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-6450, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CHILD PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A FINE FOR A VIOLATION OF THE LAW MUST NOT BE WAIVED; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-6530, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS TO THE MANDATORY USE OF SAFETY BELTS AND CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT OCCUPANTS OF THE BACK SEAT OF A MOTOR VEHICLE ARE NOT EXEMPT FROM THE SAFETY BELT REQUIREMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-6540, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE SAFETY BELT LAW AND CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL FUNDS COLLECTED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION MUST BE DEPOSITED IN THE STATE GENERAL FUND, A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER MAY NOT SEARCH A VEHICLE STOPPED SOLELY FOR A PRIMARY SAFETY BELT VIOLATION, A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER MAY STOP A DRIVER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE FOR ANY PRIMARY VIOLATION OF A PROVISION THAT REQUIRES A DRIVER OR PASSENGER TO WEAR A SAFETY BELT OR A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM, A PERSON MUST NOT BE CONVICTED FOR A PRIMARY SAFETY BELT VIOLATION EXCEPT UPON PROOF BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT, A VIOLATION OF THE MANDATORY SAFETY BELT LAW MAY BE TRIED BEFORE EITHER A JUDGE OR A JURY, AND A CONVICTION FOR A VIOLATION OF THE STATE'S MANDATORY SAFETY BELT LAW IS APPEALABLE TO THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS.
Reps. DUNCAN and M. A. PITTS proposed the following Amendment No. 6 (Doc Name COUNCIL\PT\2402CM05):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 56-5-6540, as contained in SECTION 4, by adding the following appropriately lettered subsection:
/ ( ) Notwithstanding another provision of law, a law enforcement officer may not stop a driver of a vehicle traveling along a non-interstate highway that displays a farm tag, or farmers special farm vehicle license plate for a violation of this article in the absence of another violation of the motor vehicle laws of this State. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. TAYLOR moved to adjourn debate on the amendment, which was agreed to.
Rep. SCARBOROUGH proposed the following Amendment No. 8 (Doc Name COUNCIL\SWB\6295CM05), which was ruled out of order:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding the following appropriately numbered SECTION:
/ SECTION __. Article 45, Chapter 5, Title 56 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 56-5-6535. An automobile sold after 2008 must be equipped with a device that limits its maximum speed to fifteen miles an hour as long as its driver and passengers are not wearing safety belts. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. SCARBOROUGH explained the amendment.
Rep. MCGEE raised the Point of Order that Amendment No. 8 was out of order in that it was not germane to the Bill.
SPEAKER WILKINS stated that the amendment was not germane to the Bill. He therefore sustained the Point of Order and ruled the Amendment out of order.
Rep. MERRILL proposed the following Amendment No. 9 (Doc Name COUNCIL\SWB\6376CM05):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 4 and inserting:
/ SECTION 4. Section 56-5-6540 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:
"Section 56-5-6540. (A) A person who violates is adjudicated to be in violation of the provisions of this article, upon conviction, must not be fined not more than twenty-five dollars, all or part of which may be suspended. No Court costs, assessments, or surcharges may be assessed against the a person convicted who violates a provision of this article. No person may be fined more than fifty dollars for any one incident of one or more violations of the provisions of this article. No custodial arrest for a violation of this article may be made, except upon a warrant issued for failure to appear in court when summoned or for failure to pay an imposed fine. A conviction for violation of this article does not constitute a criminal offense. Notwithstanding Section 56-1-640, a conviction for a violation of this article must not be:
(1) included in the offender's motor vehicle records maintained by the Department of Motor Vehicles or in the criminal records maintained by SLED; or
(2) reported to the offender's motor vehicle insurer.
(B) A law enforcement officer must not stop a driver for a violation of this article in the absence of another violation of the motor vehicle laws except as follows:
(1) when the officer has probable cause for a violation of this article based on his clear and unobstructed view of a driver seventeen years of age or younger or an occupant of the motor vehicle seventeen years of age or younger who is not wearing a safety belt or is not secured in a child restraint system as required by Article 47; or
(2) when the stop is made in conjunction with a driver's license check or registration check conducted at a checkpoint established to stop all drivers on a certain road for a period of time.
(C) A citation for a violation of this article, except for a citation issued pursuant to a stop made under subsection (B)(1), must not be issued without citing the violation that initially caused the officer to effect the enforcement stop.\
(D) A citation issued pursuant to a stop made under subsection (B)(1) may be issued without citing any other violation.
(E)(B) A violation of this article does is not constitute negligence per se or contributory negligence, and is not admissible as evidence in a civil action.
(F)(C) No A vehicle, driver, or occupant in a vehicle may must not be searched, nor may consent to search be requested by a law enforcement officer, solely because of a violation of this article or a stop made under subsection (B)(1). If a vehicle is stopped solely for a violation of this article, a law enforcement officer may not search the driver, the passengers, and the vehicle unless the search is for a separate and distinct offense based upon probable cause.
(D) A law enforcement officer must not stop a driver for a violation of this article except when the officer has probable cause that a violation has occurred based on his clear and unobstructed view of a driver or an occupant of the motor vehicle who is not wearing a safety belt or is not secured in a child restraint system as required by Article 47 of this chapter.
(E) A person charged with a violation of this article may admit or deny the violation, enter a plea of nolo contendere, or be tried before either a judge or a jury. If the trier of fact is convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that the person was not wearing a safety belt at the time of the incident, the penalty is a civil fine pursuant to Section 56-5-6540. If the trier of fact determines that the State has failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the person was not wearing a safety belt, no penalty shall be assessed.
(F) A person found to be in violation of this article may bring an appeal to the court of common pleas pursuant to Section 18-3-10 or Section 14-25-95." /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Rep. MERRILL explained the amendment.
Rep. HALEY spoke in favor of the amendment.
Rep. OWENS spoke in favor of the amendment.
Rep. M. A. PITTS spoke against the amendment.
Rep. MERRILL moved to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Education and Public Works, which was agreed to.
Rep. TOWNSEND moved that the House recur to the Morning Hour, which was agreed to.
The following was introduced:
H. 3705 (Word version) -- Reps. Vick and Lucas: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO WELCOME HOME THE MEN AND WOMEN OF ALPHA BATTERY 3RD BATTALION, 178TH FIELD ARTILLERY OF JEFFERSON, SOUTH CAROLINA FROM THEIR TOUR OF DUTY IN IRAQ AND TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST RESPECT AND ADMIRATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THESE SOLDIERS FOR THEIR COURAGE, BRAVERY, AND THE MANY SACRIFICES THEY HAVE MADE IN THEIR SERVICE TO OUR NATION AND THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ.
The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.
The following was introduced:
H. 3706 (Word version) -- Reps. Emory, J. M. Neal, Lucas and Vick: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO WELCOME HOME THE MEN AND WOMEN OF HEADQUARTERS, HEADQUARTERS BATTERY 3RD BATTALION, 178TH FIELD ARTILLERY OF LANCASTER, SOUTH CAROLINA FROM THEIR TOUR OF DUTY IN IRAQ AND TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST RESPECT AND ADMIRATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THESE SOLDIERS FOR THEIR COURAGE, BRAVERY, AND THE MANY SACRIFICES THEY HAVE MADE IN THEIR SERVICE TO OUR NATION AND THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ.
The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.
The following was introduced:
H. 3707 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, Lucas and Vick: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO WELCOME HOME THE MEN AND WOMEN OF CHARLIE BATTERY 3RD BATTALION, 178TH FIELD ARTILLERY OF HARTSVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA FROM THEIR TOUR OF DUTY IN IRAQ AND TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST RESPECT AND ADMIRATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THESE SOLDIERS FOR THEIR COURAGE, BRAVERY, AND THE MANY SACRIFICES THEY HAVE MADE IN THEIR SERVICE TO OUR NATION AND THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ.
The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.
Rep. HASKINS moved that the House do now adjourn, which was agreed to.
The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:
H. 3671 (Word version) -- Reps. Hagood, Limehouse and Merrill: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING THE WANDO HIGH SCHOOL "LADY WARRIORS" GIRLS TENNIS TEAM OF BERKLEY COUNTY ON THEIR 2004 STATE AAAA CHAMPIONSHIP, AND HONORING THE TEAM MEMBERS AND COACH REBECCA WILLIAMSON ON THEIR EXCEPTIONAL SEASON.
H. 3684 (Word version) -- Reps. J. H. Neal, Agnew, Allen, Altman, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Bales, Ballentine, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clark, Clemmons, Clyburn, Coates, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Emory, Frye, Funderburk, Govan, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hiott, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kennedy, Kirsh, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Norman, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rhoad, Rice, Rivers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Simrill, Sinclair, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Townsend, Tripp, Umphlett, Vaughn, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Wilkins, Witherspoon and Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE LIFE AND DISTINGUISHED SERVICE OF THEIR COLLEAGUE THE HONORABLE DARRELL JACKSON, MEMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE, UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS BEING HONORED BY A DINNER/ROAST SPONSORED BY THE BENEDICT COLLEGE COLUMBIA ALUMNI CLUB #2.
At 11:35 a.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. GOVAN, adjourned in memory of Chester A. Ray, Sr. of Orangeburg, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.
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