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 105:5: "Remember the wonders God has done."
Let us pray. Dear God, thank You for the big and small gifts in our life. Give these men and women the courage, the wisdom and the integrity to carry out the duties of their office with Your blessings and guidance. Look in favor upon our Nation, President, State, Governor and leaders. Be with our defenders of freedom and protect them. In the name of our Lord. 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. ALLEN moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Harden and Allean Barksdale, Sr. of Greenville, which was agreed to.

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., February 22, 2006
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has sustained the veto by the Governor on R. 229, S. 1074 by a vote of 0 to 44.

(R229, S1074 (Word version)) -- Senator O'Dell: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTIONS 59-53-210 AND 59-53-240, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., February 22, 2006
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R. 233, H. 3381 by a vote of 28 to 13.

(R233) H. 3381 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Skelton, Jennings, W. D. Smith, Townsend, Merrill, Ott, Rice, Mack, Viers and Walker: AN ACT 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 THE TERMS "LOCAL GOVERNING BODY", "OFF-PREMISES OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGN", "JUST COMPENSATION", AND "SIGN OWNER", TO AUTHORIZE LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO REQUIRE THE REMOVAL OF NONCONFORMING OFF-PREMISES OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGNS AND TO REGULATE THE USE OF THEM, TO ALLOW 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

Very respectfully,
President
Received as information.

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., February 22, 2006
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R. 236, H. 4494 by a vote of 45 to 0.

(R236, H4494 (Word version)) -- Reps. Hosey and Rhoad: AN ACT TO CREATE THE BARNWELL COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS AND REGISTRATION AND TO ABOLISH THE BARNWELL COUNTY BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND THE BARNWELL COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION.

The following Bills were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:

H. 4709 (Word version) -- Rep. Coleman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 11-35-57 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE STATE OR A GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY FROM ACCEPTING A PROPOSAL, GOODS, OR SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH A PROJECT FROM A PERSON OR ENTITY WHO CONSULTED ON OR CONDUCTED A STUDY OF THAT PROJECT.
Referred to Committee on Ways and Means

H. 4713 (Word version) -- Reps. Thompson and Townsend: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-41-225 SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL IN THIS STATE KNOWINGLY TO MANUFACTURE, BLEND, DISTRIBUTE, SELL, OR OFFER FOR SALE MOTOR FUEL CONTAINING METHYL TERTIARY BUTYL ETHER (MTBE) AND CERTAIN OTHER OXYGENATES AND TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS.
Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs

H. 4715 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Hardwick, Barfield, Loftis, Clemmons, Phillips, Frye, Clark, Jefferson, Duncan, Toole, Bales, Ballentine, Battle, Bowers, Ceips, Dantzler, Edge, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hodges, Hosey, Littlejohn, McLeod, M. A. Pitts, Rivers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Stewart, Umphlett, Vick and Viers: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 57-5-325 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MAY ACQUIRE REAL PROPERTY FROM THE STATE OR ITS ENTITIES WITHOUT COMPENSATING THE GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

S. 1082 (Word version) -- Senators Moore, Rankin, Alexander and McConnell: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 58-3-100 AND 58-3-240, BOTH AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-3-310 AND 58-3-320; SECTIONS 58-5-10, 58-5-30, AND 58-5-40, ALL AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-5-220, AND 58-5-230; SECTION 58-5-240, AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-5-270, 58-5-300, 58-5-310, 58-5-320, 58-5-340, 58-5-350; SECTIONS 58-5-710 AND 58-5-720, BOTH AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-5-730, 58-5-920, 58-5-930; SECTION 58-5-940, AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-5-950, 58-5-960, 58-5-970, 58-5-980, 58-5-990, 58-5-1000, 58-5-1010, 58-5-1040, 58-5-1050, AND SECTION 58-9-10, AS AMENDED; SECTION 58-9-230, AS AMENDED; SECTION 58-9-270; SECTION 58-9-280, AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-9-290 AND 58-9-300; SECTION 58-9-320, AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-9-340, 58-9-370, 58-9-380, 58-9-390, 58-9-510; SECTION 58-9-520, AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-9-540, 58-9-575, 58-9-576, 58-9-577, AND 58-9-585, ALL AS AMENDED; ARTICLE 7, CHAPTER 9, TITLE 58; SECTIONS 58-9-1010, 58-9-1020, 58-9-1030, 58-9-1040, 58-9-1050, 58-9-1060, 58-9-1070, 58-9-1080, 58-9-1090, 58-9-1100, 58-9-1110, 58-9-1120, 58-9-1130, 58-9-1150, 58-9-1160, 58-9-1230, 58-9-1410, 58-9-1480, 58-9-1650, AND SECTION 58-9-2240, AS AMENDED; ARTICLE 21, CHAPTER 9, TITLE 58, AS AMENDED; SECTION 58-9-2620, AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-11-10 AND 58-11-30; SECTIONS 58-11-60, 58-11-70, BOTH AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-11-120, 58-11-160, 58-11-200, 58-11-220, 58-11-230, 58-11-240, 58-11-260, 58-11-410, 58-11-420, 58-11-430, 58-11-450, 58-11-460, 58-11-480, 58-11-490, 58-11-500, 58-11-510, 58-11-520, 58-11-530, 58-11-580, 58-11-600, 58-13-430, AND 58-15-1140; SECTIONS 58-15-940 AND 58-15-950, BOTH AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-15-960, 58-15-1520, 58-15-1700, 58-15-1710, 58-17-110, 58-17-140, 58-17-150, 58-17-170, 58-17-180, 58-17-190, 58-17-200, 58-17-320, 58-17-930, 58-17-940,

The following was introduced:

H. 4710 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Barfield, Clemmons, Frye, Hardwick and Sandifer: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CELEBRATING SIXTY YEARS OF TREE FARMING IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND SALUTING THE SOUTH CAROLINA TREE FARM PROGRAM.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced:

H. 4711 (Word version) -- Rep. Cotty: A HOUSE RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE TEACHERS, STAFF, AND STUDENTS OF FOREST LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN RICHLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO ON BEING NAMED ONE OF TWELVE FINALISTS FOR THE 2006 CAROLINA FIRST PALMETTO'S FINEST SCHOOLS AWARD.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4712 (Word version) -- Rep. Cotty: A HOUSE RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE TEACHERS, STAFF, AND STUDENTS OF BLYTHEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL IN RICHLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO ON BEING NAMED ONE OF TWELVE FINALISTS FOR THE 2006 CAROLINA FIRST PALMETTO'S FINEST SCHOOLS AWARD.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4714 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty and Funderburk: A HOUSE RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE TEACHERS, STAFF, AND STUDENTS OF DOBY'S MILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN KERSHAW COUNTY ON BEING NAMED ONE OF TWELVE FINALISTS FOR THE 2006 CAROLINA FIRST PALMETTO'S FINEST SCHOOLS AWARD.

The Resolution was adopted.

The roll call of the House of Representatives was taken resulting as follows:

Allen                  Altman                 Anderson
Anthony                Bailey                 Bales
Ballentine             Bannister              Barfield
Battle                 Bowers                 Brady
Branham                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               Haskins                Hayes
Herbkersman            J. Hines               Hinson
Hiott                  Hodges                 Hosey
Howard                 Huggins                Jefferson
Kennedy                Kirsh                  Leach
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Loftis
Mack                   Mahaffey               McCraw
McGee                  McLeod                 Merrill
Miller                 Mitchell               Moody-Lawrence
J. H. Neal             J. M. Neal             Norman
Ott                    Parks                  Perry
Phillips               Pinson                 E. H. Pitts

M. A. Pitts            Rhoad                  Rice
Rivers                 Sandifer               Scarborough
Scott                  Simrill                Skelton
D. C. Smith            G. M. Smith            G. R. Smith
J. E. Smith            J. R. Smith            W. D. Smith
Stewart                Taylor                 Thompson
Toole                  Townsend               Tripp
Umphlett               Vaughn                 Vick
Viers                  Walker                 Weeks
White                  Witherspoon            Young

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Thursday, February 23.

Paul Agnew                        Fletcher Smith
James Lucas                       Douglas Jennings
Scott Talley                      Denny Neilson
Todd Rutherford                   Becky Martin
Jackson "Seth"  Whipper           Cathy Harvin

The SPEAKER granted Rep. BINGHAM a leave of absence for the day due to state business.

The SPEAKER granted Rep. OWENS a leave of absence for the day due to personal reasons.

The SPEAKER granted Rep. SINCLAIR a leave of absence for the day due to personal reasons.

Rep. TRIPP signed a statement with the Clerk that he came in after the roll call of the House and was present for the Session on Wednesday, February 22.

Announcement was made that Dr. Leo Walker of Columbia is the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

Reps. HUGGINS, MCLEOD and BALLENTINE presented to the House the Chapin High School Eagles Varsity Cheerleaders, the 2005-2006 Class AAA 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. 3573 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/23/06   VICK

Bill Number:   H. 3573 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/23/06   DUNCAN

Bill Number:   H. 3795 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/23/06   J. BROWN

Bill Number:   H. 3573 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/23/06   ALTMAN

Bill Number:   H. 4137 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/23/06   UMPHLETT

The following was received:

Columbia, S.C., February 22, 2006
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:
The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R. 227, S. 1024 by a vote of 45 to 0.

(R227, S1024 (Word version)) -- Senator Thomas: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO POSTPONE UNTIL 2007 THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE VALUES DETERMINED IN GREENVILLE COUNTY'S MOST RECENTLY COMPLETED COUNTYWIDE APPRAISAL AND EQUALIZATION PLAN.

Very respectfully,
President

The SPEAKER ordered the following veto printed in the Journal:

February 21, 2006
The Honorable André Bauer
President of the Senate
State House, 1st Floor, East Wing
Columbia, South Carolina 29202

Dear Mr. President and Members of the Senate:

I am hereby returning without my approval S. 1024 (Word version), R. 227, a Joint Resolution: TO POSTPONE UNTIL 2007 THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE VALUES DETERMINED IN GREENVILLE COUNTY'S

This bill is special legislation that would give Greenville County the authority to postpone implementation of the revised values determined in its 2005 countywide appraisal and equalization program. While I applaud the spirit of this legislation, we should be careful not to create new laws to do things already allowed in existing law. This well intended piece of legislation, built around the anticipation of property tax reform on the horizon in the General Assembly, does just that.

The purpose of this bill has been accomplished by general law, Act 145, H. 3768, R. 150. Act 145 of 2005, which updated our state tax code, gives all counties the authority to postpone implementation of reassessment program values for an additional property tax year. I signed H. 3768, R. 150 into law on June 7, 2005; and accordingly, this bill is not necessary.

To be clear, our tax code allows a postponement of one year, which Greenville has utilized, and the tax code update that passed in 2005 allows postponement for an additional year. In other words, the county could decide tomorrow of its own accord to postpone reassessment for a second year.

This veto is also based on my belief that S. 1024, R. 227 is unconstitutional. Since this bill affects only Greenville County, it violates Article VIII, Section 7 of the Constitution of the State of South Carolina, which provides that "[n]o laws for a specific county shall be enacted." If the General Assembly decides that counties should hold off on adjusting values, a statewide bill would be a more appropriate vehicle.

For these reasons, I am vetoing and returning S.1024, R. 227 to you without my signature.

Sincerely,
Mark Sanford
Governor

The Veto on the following Act was taken up:

(R227) S. 1024 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO POSTPONE UNTIL 2007 THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE VALUES DETERMINED IN GREENVILLE COUNTY'S MOST

The question was put, shall the Act become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allen                  Bannister              Cato
Clark                  Hamilton               Haskins
Leach                  Loftis                 Merrill
Neilson                Rice                   G. R. Smith
Taylor                 Vaughn                 Vick

Those who voted in the negative are:

J. Brown

So, the Veto of the Governor was overridden and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

The following was received:

February 22, 2006
Mr. Charles F. Reid
Clerk of the House
Post Office Box 11867
Columbia, SC 29211

Dear Mr. Reid:

The State Election Commission has certified to this office that the Honorable Cathy B. Harvin received the greatest number of votes cast

The Honorable Cathy B. Harvin is hereby certified as the duly and properly elected member of the House of Representatives, House District #64.

Sincerely,
/s/Mark Hammond
Secretary of State

Received as information.

Mrs. Cathy B. Harvin, Member-elect from District No. 64 presented her credentials and the oath of office was administered to her by the SPEAKER.

The following Bills were taken up, read the second time, and ordered to a third reading:

H. 3740 (Word version) -- Reps. McGee, Coates, M. Hines, Branham and J. Hines: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 239 OF 1981, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 1 IN FLORENCE COUNTY, SO AS TO REAPPORTION THE ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH 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.

H. 4622 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Cato, Harrell, Bingham, Leach, Loftis, Tripp, Cooper, White, Townsend, Bales, Battle and Dantzler: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-77-350, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE FORM TO BE USED WHEN OPTIONAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COVERAGES ARE OFFERED TO AN INSURED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FORM MUST NOT NECESSARILY BE COMPLETED BY THE INSURED, BUT MUST BE SIGNED BY THE INSURED TO BE USED AS EVIDENCE OF INFORMED SELECTION.

On motion of Rep. WALKER, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 4622 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

On motion of Rep. BOWERS, with unanimous consent, it was ordered that H. 4708 (Word version) be read the third time tomorrow.

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

S. 1098 (Word version) -- Senator McGill: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-520, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY, SO AS TO ADD THE PERGAMOS VOTING PRECINCT IN WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY, AND TO REDESIGNATE A MAP NUMBER FOR THE MAP ON WHICH LINES OF THE AFFECTED PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED AND MAINTAINED BY THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 1061 (Word version) -- Senators Gregory, Grooms, Courson, Drummond, Richardson, Campsen, Ryberg, Land, Hutto, Setzler, Hayes, Sheheen,

Reps. HAGOOD and KIRSH proposed the following Amendment No. 10 (Doc Name COUNCIL\MS\7144AHB06), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting in its entirety Section 51-17-350, as contained in SECTION 2, page 6, beginning on line 15, and inserting:
/   Section 51-17-350.   In each year that bonds issued pursuant to this article are outstanding, the trustees, not later than December 1 of such year, shall submit a written report to the State Budget and Control Board as to whether, based on revenues of the Heritage Land Trust portion of the state deed recording fee received by the Heritage Land Trust Fund as of July 1 of that year, the revenues are projected to be sufficient to discharge all covenants, agreements, and obligations of the department and the trustees with respect to all outstanding bonds in the calendar year immediately following. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. HAGOOD explained the amendment.
The amendment was then adopted.

The Bill, as amended, was read the second time and ordered to third reading.

Rep. WITHERSPOON asked unanimous consent that S. 1061 (Word version) be read a third time tomorrow.
Rep. WHITE objected.

Rep. WEEKS moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill until Tuesday, February 28, which was adopted:

H. 4671 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Delleney and Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-23-600, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HEARINGS AND PROCEEDINGS THAT AN ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE SHALL PRESIDE OVER, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT EXCLUDES CERTAIN MOTOR VEHICLE RELATED HEARINGS AND PROCEEDINGS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE CLERK OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT MUST FILE A CERTIFIED COPY OF A FINAL ORDER WITH A CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE THIS ORDER HAS THE SAME EFFECT AS A JUDGMENT OF THE COURT; TO AMEND SECTION 1-23-660, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLE HEARINGS, SO AS TO GIVE THE CHIEF JUDGE OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT THE AUTHORITY TO PROMULGATE RULES GOVERNING THE PRACTICE AND PROCEDURES BEFORE THE DIVISION WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO REVIEW BY THE SUPREME COURT; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-10, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS OF TERMS CONTAINED IN THE PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR CERTAIN TERMS THAT RELATE TO THE DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLE HEARINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-370, RELATING TO THE REVIEW OF THE CANCELLATION, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ALLOWS THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO CONDUCT THE REVIEW AND PROVIDE THAT THE DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLE HEARINGS SHALL CONDUCT THESE PROCEEDINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-410, RELATING TO THE JUDICIAL REVIEW OF A DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES ORDER THAT CANCELS, SUSPENDS, OR REVOKES A DRIVER'S LICENSE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS THAT RELATE TO THE REVIEW OF A DECISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE REVIEW OF A

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3573 (Word version) -- Reps. Clark, Haley, Ballentine, Moody-Lawrence, Anthony, R. Brown, Clyburn, Frye, Hosey, Huggins, Mack, Mahaffey, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Rice, D. C. Smith, J. R. Smith, Townsend, Vaughn, Walker, Vick, Duncan and Altman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 TO CHAPTER 63 OF TITLE 59 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SAFE SCHOOLS ACT" TO PREVENT SCHOOL HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, OR BULLYING, TO INSTRUCT LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO ADOPT A POLICY PROHIBITING HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, OR BULLYING THAT INCLUDES CERTAIN THINGS, TO DEVELOP A TRAINING PROCESS, AND TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS.

The Education and Public Works Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\9274SJ06):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/   SECTION   1.   (A)   The General Assembly finds that:

(1)   A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards.

(2)   Harassment, intimidation, and bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, are conducts that disrupt both a student's ability to learn and a school's ability to educate its students in a safe environment.

(3)   Since students learn by example, school administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers should be commended for demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

(B)   The purpose of this act is to protect the health and welfare of, and improve the learning environment for South Carolina school children.
SECTION   2.   Chapter 63, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

Section 59-63-110.   This article may be cited as the 'Safe School Climate Act'.

Section 59-63-120.   As used in this article:

(1)   'Harassment, intimidation, or bullying' means a gesture, an electronic communication, or a written, verbal, physical, or sexual act that is reasonably perceived to have the effect of:

(a)   harming a student physically or emotionally or damaging a student's property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of personal harm or property damage; or

(b)   insulting or demeaning a student or group of students causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

(2)   'School' means in a classroom, on school premises, on a school bus or other school-related vehicle, at an official school bus stop, at a school-sponsored activity or event whether or not it is held on school premises, or at another program or function where the school is responsible for the child.

Section 59-63-130.   (A)   A person may not engage in:

(1)   harassment, intimidation, or bullying; or

(2)   reprisal, retaliation, or false accusation against a victim, witness, or one with reliable information about an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

(B)   A school employee, student, or volunteer who witnesses, or has reliable information that a student has been subject to harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall report the incident to the appropriate school official.

Section 59-63-140.   (A)   Before January 1, 2007, each local school district shall adopt a policy prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying at school. The school district shall involve parents and guardians, school employees, volunteers, students, administrators, and community representatives in the process of creating the policy.

(B)   The policy must include, but not be limited to, the following components:

(1)   a statement prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a student;

(2)   a definition of harassment, intimidation, or bullying no less inclusive than the definition in Section 59-63-120;

(3)   a description of appropriate student behavior;

(4)   consequences and appropriate remedial actions for persons committing acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, and for persons engaging in reprisal or retaliation;

(5)   procedures for reporting acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, to include a provision for reporting anonymously. However, formal disciplinary action must not be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report. The procedures must identify the appropriate school personnel responsible for taking the report and investigating the complaint;

(6)   procedures for prompt investigation of reports of serious violations and complaints;

(7)   a statement that prohibits reprisal or retaliation against a person who reports an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying;

(8)   consequences and appropriate remedial action for persons found to have falsely accused another;

(9)   a process for discussing the district's harassment, intimidation, or bullying policy with students; and

(10)   a statement of how the policy is to be publicized, including notice that the policy applies to participation in school-sponsored functions.

(C)   To assist local school districts in developing policies for the prevention of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, the State Board of Education shall develop model policies applicable to grades kindergarten through twelve. Additionally, the State Board of Education shall develop teacher preparation program standards on the identification and prevention of bullying. The model policies and standards must be developed no later than September 1, 2006.

(D)   The local school board shall ensure that the school district's policy developed pursuant to this article is included in the school district's publication of the comprehensive rules, procedures, and standards of conduct for schools and in the student's handbook.

(E)   Information regarding a local school district policy against harassment, intimidation, or bullying must be incorporated into a school's employee training program. Training also should be provided to school volunteers who have significant contact with students.

(F)   Schools and school districts are encouraged to establish bullying prevention programs and other initiatives involving school staff, students, administrators, volunteers, parents, law enforcement, and community members.

Section 59-63-150.   (A)   This article must not be interpreted to prevent a victim from seeking redress pursuant to another available civil or criminal law. This section does not create or alter tort liability.

(B)   A school employee or volunteer who promptly reports an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying to the appropriate school official designated by the local school district's policy, and who makes this report in compliance with the procedures in the district's policy, is immune from a cause of action for damages arising from failure to remedy the reported incident."
SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. WALKER explained the amendment.

Reps. DUNCAN, TRIPP, NORMAN, PERRY, HASKINS, G. R. SMITH, MAHAFFEY, STEWART, WALKER, J. H. NEAL, SKELTON, COATES, UMPHLETT, M. A. PITTS, MACK, R. BROWN, ANTHONY, DAVENPORT, TOWNSEND, J. BROWN, HOSEY, J. HINES, NEILSON, BALES, AGNEW, THOMPSON, JEFFERSON, TOOLE, FRYE, LUCAS, CLARK and CLYBURN requested debate on the Bill.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4350 (Word version) -- Reps. G. R. Smith, Hamilton, Vaughn, Leach and Bannister: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-222 SO AS TO ALLOW CERTAIN PERSONS WHO WEAR BIOPTIC TELESCOPIC LENSES TO OBTAIN A DRIVER'S LICENSE.

The Education and Public Works Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\SWB\6730CM06):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   Article 1, Chapter 1, Title 56 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 56-1-222.   (A)   Notwithstanding the provisions contained in Section 56-1-220, a person diagnosed with low vision acuity who

(1)   submits a vision report form that complies with subsection (B);

(2)   submits proof that the applicant has been trained to operate a motor vehicle while wearing bioptic telescopic lenses as evidenced by having successfully completed a driver-training course or program that meets the criteria listed in subsection (C) for such programs; and

(3)   meets all other qualifications for obtaining a driver's license, including passing the department administered road test wearing the bioptic telescopic lenses. A person applying for a driver's license pursuant to this section who fails to pass the road test after two attempts, before another test can be administered, must present certification of completion of another driver-training course or program that meets the criteria listed in subsection (C) dated at least thirty days from the date the second road test was administered.

(B)   An applicant for a driver's license who will use bioptic telescopic lenses for vision assistance while driving must submit a vision report form supplied by the department. The report must be completed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist qualified in the field of low vision care. The report must include the following information:

(1)   the applicant's vital data;

(2)   a diagnosis of the applicant's visual condition and the date of the onset of his visual impairment;

(3)   the date the bioptic telescopic system was dispensed to the applicant;

(4)   certification by the low vision care professional that the applicant:

(a)   is not impaired in the movement of his eyes, head, or neck;

(b)   has normal color vision;

(c)   has visual acuity of at least 20/200 with the best conventional nontelescopic corrective lenses;

(d)   does not have central field vision loss that exceeds five degrees;

(e)   has visual acuity of at least 20/60 using the bioptic telescopic lenses;

(f)     has a horizontal visual field diameter of not less than one hundred fifty degrees without the use of field expanders;   and

(5)   a statement concerning the stability of the applicant's condition.

An applicant who is issued a driver's license pursuant to this section must have the low vision report updated annually by an optometrist or ophthalmologist and submit it to the department for review. The eye care professional that examines the applicant and completes the annual report must indicate at the top of the report whether the applicant's vision condition has deteriorated in any way so that the applicant no longer meets the requirements of subsection (B)(4).

The department shall review the annual report submitted by the applicant. If the report indicates that the applicant no longer meets the requirements of subsection (B)(4), the department will immediately revoke the license held by the applicant. In order to be issued a new valid license the applicant must retake the department administered road test.

(C)   A person applying for a driver's license pursuant to this section must complete successfully a driver-training course or program certified to train individuals to use bioptic telescopic lenses while operating a motor vehicle. To be certified as a bioptic telescopic lens driver-training course or program, the course or program must be administered by a certified driver rehabilitation specialist with a minimum of three years driver-training experience. The course or program must consist of the following minimum training requirements:

(1)   operating a motor vehicle under the supervision of a driving instructor for a minimum of thirty hours;

(2)   locating stationary objects within the telescopic field of view by aligning the object directly next to the telescopic lenses, and then moving the wearer's head and his eyes simultaneously to see the object with the telescope;

(3)   locating a moving object in a large field of vision by anticipating future movement, so that by moving the wearer's head and eyes in a coordinated fashion he can locate the moving object within the telescopic field; and

(4)   training in brief visual exposure with the deviation of exposure diminished constantly to simulate short-looking time while driving.

The applicant must apply for a driver's license and take the department road test within six months of having completed the bioptic lens driver-training program.

(D)   The following driving restrictions apply to a person who has been issued a driver's license pursuant to this section:

(1)   the driver may drive only during daylight hours, defined as after the hour of six o'clock a.m. and no later than six o'clock p.m. However, beginning on the day that daylight saving time goes into effect through the day that daylight saving time ends, the license holder may drive after six o'clock a.m. and no later than eight o'clock p.m.;

(2)   the driver is permitted to travel on noninterstate roads and highways only; and

(3)   the vehicle being operated by the driver must be equipped with both left and right side mirrors.

(E)   Nothing in this section permits an applicant who uses bioptic telescopic lenses for vision assistance to apply for a license to operate a motorcycle or a commercial driver's license."
SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Rep. G. R. SMITH explained the amendment.

Reps. SCARBOROUGH, THOMPSON, ALTMAN, MAHAFFEY, G. R. SMITH, UMPHLETT, HAMILTON, LEACH, VAUGHN, DAVENPORT, MACK and J. BROWN requested debate on the Bill.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4391 (Word version) -- Reps. Taylor, Bingham, Cato and Duncan: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 38-61-60 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE AN INSURANCE COMPANY TO ADVERTISE A POLICY IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE, BUT ONLY OFFER THE POLICY IN ENGLISH.

Rep. SCARBOROUGH 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 Bill was taken up:

H. 4595 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Walker, Jennings, Battle, Cobb-Hunter, Sandifer, Haley, Kennedy, Agnew, Bales, Ballentine, Bowers, Branham, Emory, Hayes, J. Hines, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Miller, Neilson, Rivers, Sinclair, Umphlett and Vick: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-59-35 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON FROM ENGAGING IN THE BUSINESS OF RESIDENTIAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTING UNLESS LICENSED AS A RESIDENTIAL SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR; TO PROHIBIT PROVIDING A POTENTIAL BUYER A PROPOSAL FOR SALE OR INSTALLATION OF RESIDENTIAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING, OTHER THAN A WRITTEN ESTIMATE, BEFORE THE SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SYSTEM HAVE BEEN REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY A LICENSED EMPLOYEE OF THE RETAIL SELLER, OR THE RETAIL SELLER; TO FURTHER SPECIFY CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SALE AND INSTALLATION OF A HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM; AND TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS ESTABLISHING A CIVIL PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS.

Rep. WHITE 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 Bill was taken up:

H. 4289 (Word version) -- Reps. McGee, Altman, Battle and Coates: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-7-150, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SLANDER AND LIBEL, SO AS TO DELETE THE MALICIOUS INTENT STANDARD AND PROVIDE FOR AN ACTUAL MALICE STANDARD REQUIRING KNOWLEDGE THAT A STATEMENT IS FALSE OR MADE WITH

Rep. G. M. SMITH 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 Bill was taken up:

H. 4410 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty and Brady: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1510, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PENALTY FOR LATE FILING OF OR FAILURE TO FILE A REPORT OR STATEMENT REQUIRED BY THE ETHICS ACT, SO AS TO CAP THE FINE AT FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS.

Rep. SIMRILL 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 Bill was taken up:

H. 4356 (Word version) -- Reps. Mack and Cobb-Hunter: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-110, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO POLL MANAGERS AND ASSISTANTS, SO AS TO ALLOW A SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD PERSON TO BE IN CHARGE OF A POLLING PLACE WHILE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF AN ADULT POLL MANAGER, AND TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT ONE SIXTEEN- OR SEVENTEEN-YEAR-OLD PERSON MAY BE APPOINTED TO A PRECINCT FOR EVERY TWO REGULAR POLL MANAGERS.

Rep. TALLEY 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. E. H. PITTS, with unanimous consent, the following Bill was ordered recalled from the Committee on Ways and Means:

S. 1136 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Cromer, Setzler and Courson: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 378 OF 2004, THE LEXINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY RELIEF ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REVENUES ALLOTTED TO A SCHOOL DISTRICT BE USED TO PROVIDE A NONREFUNDABLE CREDIT AGAINST THE SCHOOL PROPERTY TAX LIABILITY ON PROPERTY TAXABLE IN THE DISTRICT AND THAT THE LIABILITY BE DETERMINED BY USING THE APPRAISED VALUE OF THE TAXABLE PROPERTY BEFORE THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION IN SECTION 12-37-250.

The motion period was dispensed with on motion of Rep. RHOAD.

Rep. MCLEOD moved to adjourn debate upon the following Joint Resolution until Tuesday, February 28, which was adopted:

H. 4502 (Word version) -- Reps. Edge, Harrison, Harrell, Merrill, Young, Bingham, Bailey, Loftis, Perry, Haskins, Witherspoon, Cato, Vaughn, Altman, Sandifer, G. R. Smith, Walker, Jefferson, Ott, Mack, Vick, Clemmons, Bales, Clark, Simrill and Viers: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE I, SECTIONS 13 AND 17, AND ARTICLE XIV, SECTION 5 OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, TO CONSOLIDATE IN ARTICLE I, SECTION 13 PROVISIONS FOR THE EXERCISE OF THE POWER OF EMINENT DOMAIN BY PUBLIC BODIES OF THIS STATE BY AMENDING ARTICLE I, SECTION 17, RELATING TO TREASON

Rep. ALTMAN moved to adjourn debate upon the following Bill until Tuesday, February 28, which was adopted:

H. 4503 (Word version) -- Reps. Edge, Harrison, Harrell, Merrill, Bingham, Young, Loftis, Perry, Haskins, Witherspoon, Bailey, Cato, Vaughn, Altman, Sandifer, G. R. Smith, Walker, Jefferson, Mack, Vick, Hardwick, Clemmons, Bales, Neilson, Mahaffey, Clark, Simrill and Viers: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO REFORM CERTAIN EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEDURES BY ADDING SECTION 4-9-32 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PROCEDURES REQUIRED OF A COUNTY BEFORE IT MAY EXERCISE EMINENT DOMAIN; BY ADDING SECTIONS 28-2-65 AND 28-2-67 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE OWNER OF CONDEMNED PROPERTY HAS THE RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL TO REDEEM HIS PROPERTY IF THE CONDEMNING ENTITY DOES NOT USE THE PROPERTY FOR THE INTENDED PUBLIC USE OR IT CONTEMPLATES A SALE TO ANOTHER PARTY; BY ADDING SECTION 28-3-25 SO AS TO REQUIRE WRITTEN APPROVAL BEFORE CERTAIN PUBLIC BODIES MAY EXERCISE EMINENT DOMAIN; BY ADDING CHAPTER 4 TO TITLE 28 SO AS TO ENACT THE "JUST

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3573 (Word version) -- Reps. Clark, Haley, Ballentine, Moody-Lawrence, Anthony, R. Brown, Clyburn, Frye, Hosey, Huggins, Mack, Mahaffey, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Rice, D. C. Smith, J. R. Smith, Townsend, Vaughn, Walker, Vick, Duncan and Altman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 TO CHAPTER 63 OF TITLE 59 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SAFE SCHOOLS ACT" TO PREVENT SCHOOL HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, OR BULLYING, TO INSTRUCT LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO ADOPT A POLICY PROHIBITING HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, OR BULLYING THAT INCLUDES CERTAIN THINGS, TO DEVELOP A TRAINING PROCESS, AND TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS.

The Education and Public Works Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\9274SJ06), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/   SECTION   1.   (A)   The General Assembly finds that:

(1)   A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards.

(2)   Harassment, intimidation, and bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, are conducts that disrupt both a student's ability to learn and a school's ability to educate its students in a safe environment.

(3)   Since students learn by example, school administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers should be commended for demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

(B)   The purpose of this act is to protect the health and welfare of, and improve the learning environment for South Carolina school children.
SECTION   2.   Chapter 63, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

Section 59-63-110.   This article may be cited as the 'Safe School Climate Act'.

Section 59-63-120.   As used in this article:

(1)   'Harassment, intimidation, or bullying' means a gesture, an electronic communication, or a written, verbal, physical, or sexual act that is reasonably perceived to have the effect of:

(a)   harming a student physically or emotionally or damaging a student's property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of personal harm or property damage; or

(b)   insulting or demeaning a student or group of students causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

(2)   'School' means in a classroom, on school premises, on a school bus or other school-related vehicle, at an official school bus stop, at a school-sponsored activity or event whether or not it is held on school premises, or at another program or function where the school is responsible for the child.

Section 59-63-130.   (A)   A person may not engage in:

(1)   harassment, intimidation, or bullying; or

(2)   reprisal, retaliation, or false accusation against a victim, witness, or one with reliable information about an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

(B)   A school employee, student, or volunteer who witnesses, or has reliable information that a student has been subject to harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall report the incident to the appropriate school official.

Section 59-63-140.   (A)   Before January 1, 2007, each local school district shall adopt a policy prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying at school. The school district shall involve parents and guardians, school employees, volunteers, students, administrators, and community representatives in the process of creating the policy.

(B)   The policy must include, but not be limited to, the following components:

(1)   a statement prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a student;

(2)   a definition of harassment, intimidation, or bullying no less inclusive than the definition in Section 59-63-120;

(3)   a description of appropriate student behavior;

(4)   consequences and appropriate remedial actions for persons committing acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, and for persons engaging in reprisal or retaliation;

(5)   procedures for reporting acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, to include a provision for reporting anonymously.

(6)   procedures for prompt investigation of reports of serious violations and complaints;

(7)   a statement that prohibits reprisal or retaliation against a person who reports an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying;

(8)   consequences and appropriate remedial action for persons found to have falsely accused another;

(9)   a process for discussing the district's harassment, intimidation, or bullying policy with students; and

(10)   a statement of how the policy is to be publicized, including notice that the policy applies to participation in school-sponsored functions.

(C)   To assist local school districts in developing policies for the prevention of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, the State Board of Education shall develop model policies applicable to grades kindergarten through twelve. Additionally, the State Board of Education shall develop teacher preparation program standards on the identification and prevention of bullying. The model policies and standards must be developed no later than September 1, 2006.

(D)   The local school board shall ensure that the school district's policy developed pursuant to this article is included in the school district's publication of the comprehensive rules, procedures, and standards of conduct for schools and in the student's handbook.

(E)   Information regarding a local school district policy against harassment, intimidation, or bullying must be incorporated into a school's employee training program. Training also should be provided to school volunteers who have significant contact with students.

(F)   Schools and school districts are encouraged to establish bullying prevention programs and other initiatives involving school staff, students, administrators, volunteers, parents, law enforcement, and community members.

Section 59-63-150.   (A)   This article must not be interpreted to prevent a victim from seeking redress pursuant to another available civil or criminal law. This section does not create or alter tort liability.

(B)   A school employee or volunteer who promptly reports an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying to the appropriate school official designated by the local school district's policy, and who makes this report in compliance with the procedures in the district's

The amendment was then adopted.

Rep. SCOTT moved to adjourn debate on the Bill until Tuesday, February 28, which was agreed to.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 4350 (Word version) -- Reps. G. R. Smith, Hamilton, Vaughn, Leach and Bannister: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-222 SO AS TO ALLOW CERTAIN PERSONS WHO WEAR BIOPTIC TELESCOPIC LENSES TO OBTAIN A DRIVER'S LICENSE.

The Education and Public Works Committee proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\SWB\6730CM06):
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   Article 1, Chapter 1, Title 56 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 56-1-222.   (A)   Notwithstanding the provisions contained in Section 56-1-220, a person diagnosed with low vision acuity who uses bioptic telescopic lenses for vision assistance may be issued a driver's license by the Department of Motor Vehicles if the person:

(1)   submits a vision report form that complies with subsection (B);

(2)   submits proof that the applicant has been trained to operate a motor vehicle while wearing bioptic telescopic lenses as evidenced by having successfully completed a driver-training course or program that meets the criteria listed in subsection (C) for such programs; and

(3)   meets all other qualifications for obtaining a driver's license, including passing the department administered road test wearing the bioptic telescopic lenses. A person applying for a driver's license pursuant to this section who fails to pass the road test after two attempts, before another test can be administered, must present

(B)   An applicant for a driver's license who will use bioptic telescopic lenses for vision assistance while driving must submit a vision report form supplied by the department. The report must be completed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist qualified in the field of low vision care. The report must include the following information:

(1)   the applicant's vital data;

(2)   a diagnosis of the applicant's visual condition and the date of the onset of his visual impairment;

(3)   the date the bioptic telescopic system was dispensed to the applicant;

(4)   certification by the low vision care professional that the applicant:

(a)   is not impaired in the movement of his eyes, head, or neck;

(b)   has normal color vision;

(c)   has visual acuity of at least 20/200 with the best conventional nontelescopic corrective lenses;

(d)   does not have central field vision loss that exceeds five degrees;

(e)   has visual acuity of at least 20/60 using the bioptic telescopic lenses;

(f)     has a horizontal visual field diameter of not less than one hundred fifty degrees without the use of field expanders;   and

(5)   a statement concerning the stability of the applicant's condition.

An applicant who is issued a driver's license pursuant to this section must have the low vision report updated annually by an optometrist or ophthalmologist and submit it to the department for review. The eye care professional that examines the applicant and completes the annual report must indicate at the top of the report whether the applicant's vision condition has deteriorated in any way so that the applicant no longer meets the requirements of subsection (B)(4).

The department shall review the annual report submitted by the applicant. If the report indicates that the applicant no longer meets the requirements of subsection (B)(4), the department will immediately revoke the license held by the applicant. In order to be issued a new

(C)   A person applying for a driver's license pursuant to this section must complete successfully a driver-training course or program certified to train individuals to use bioptic telescopic lenses while operating a motor vehicle. To be certified as a bioptic telescopic lens driver-training course or program, the course or program must be administered by a certified driver rehabilitation specialist with a minimum of three years driver-training experience. The course or program must consist of the following minimum training requirements:

(1)   operating a motor vehicle under the supervision of a driving instructor for a minimum of thirty hours;

(2)   locating stationary objects within the telescopic field of view by aligning the object directly next to the telescopic lenses, and then moving the wearer's head and his eyes simultaneously to see the object with the telescope;

(3)   locating a moving object in a large field of vision by anticipating future movement, so that by moving the wearer's head and eyes in a coordinated fashion he can locate the moving object within the telescopic field; and

(4)   training in brief visual exposure with the deviation of exposure diminished constantly to simulate short-looking time while driving.

The applicant must apply for a driver's license and take the department road test within six months of having completed the bioptic lens driver-training program.

(D)   The following driving restrictions apply to a person who has been issued a driver's license pursuant to this section:

(1)   the driver may drive only during daylight hours, defined as after the hour of six o'clock a.m. and no later than six o'clock p.m. However, beginning on the day that daylight saving time goes into effect through the day that daylight saving time ends, the license holder may drive after six o'clock a.m. and no later than eight o'clock p.m.;

(2)   the driver is permitted to travel on noninterstate roads and highways only; and

(3)   the vehicle being operated by the driver must be equipped with both left and right side mirrors.

(E)   Nothing in this section permits an applicant who uses bioptic telescopic lenses for vision assistance to apply for a license to operate a motorcycle or a commercial driver's license."
SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /

Rep. ALTMAN spoke against the amendment.

Rep. UMPHLETT moved to adjourn debate on the Bill until Tuesday, February 28, which was agreed to.

Rep. UMPHLETT moved that the House recur to the Morning Hour, which was agreed to.

On motion of Rep. MCLEOD, with unanimous consent, the following was taken up for immediate consideration:

H. 4717 (Word version) -- Rep. McLeod: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO COMMEMORATE THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF NEWBERRY COLLEGE, AND THE CREATION BY ITS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF AN INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM PLANNED FOR APRIL 2006 TO RECOGNIZE THE LIFE AND WORK OF THE COLLEGE'S FOUNDER, THE REVEREND DOCTOR JOHN BACHMAN, AND TO DECLARE FEBRUARY 2006 IN SOUTH CAROLINA AS "JOHN BACHMAN MONTH".

Whereas, John Bachman was born on February 4, 1790, and, at an early age in New York State, the future Dr. Bachman showed a strong interest in studies of natural history and religion, particularly, the works of Martin Luther; and

Whereas, the esteemed Dr. Bachman traveled south in January 1815 to Charleston, South Carolina to become pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman served St. John's faithfully and honorably as its beloved pastor for an amazing and productive fifty-six years, during which time he became a true pillar of the Charleston community; and

Whereas, contrary to civil statutes and community standards of the time, Dr. Bachman educated Charleston slaves and freemen of African

Whereas, Dr. Bachman helped form and served twice as President of the South Carolina Lutheran Synod, from 1824 to 1833 and again from 1839 to 1840; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman, as Synod President in 1831, took action that led to the establishment of a theological institution to train Lutheran ministers, now known as the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary of Columbia, South Carolina; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman had a keen interest in the natural history of the South Carolina Lowcountry and discovered and described many birds and mammals previously unknown to science; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman was a seminal and active member of the "Circle of Naturalists," whose work in various natural history fields made antebellum Charleston a scientific center equal in importance to such cities as Philadelphia, Boston, and New York; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman frequently published letters and short articles about his natural history observations in local and regional publications, including the South Carolina Medical Journal, and gave public lectures on these topics to audiences of both learned and lay people; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman began a lifelong friendship and professional collaboration when he hosted the famous bird artist, John James Audubon, during the artist's 1831 visit to Charleston; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman was instrumental in founding the South Carolina State Horticultural Society in 1833; and

Whereas, various scientists have seen fit to recognize Dr. Bachman's natural history contributions by naming three North American birds, two mammals, and one butterfly in his honor, including Bachman's Warbler (Vermivora bachmanii), Bachman's Sparrow (Aimophila aestivalis bachmani), Bachman's (now Black) Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani), Bachman's Brush Rabbit (Sylvilagus

Whereas, Dr. Bachman encouraged African-American members of St. John's Lutheran Church to enter the ministry, nurturing nationally known clergymen such as Jehu Jones, the first African-American Lutheran minister ordained in North America, Boston Jenkins Drayton, missionary to Liberia and eventual Chief Justice of the Liberian Supreme Court, and Daniel Alexander Payne, the sixth bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman served on the Board of Trustees of the College of Charleston from 1834 until 1848; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman, in 1838, sailed for England and the Continent of Europe, where he was greeted as a renowned scientist and awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Berlin; and

Whereas, in 1840 he and John James Audubon began work on the Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America, an illustrated folio on mammals, equal in importance, quality, and artistic grandeur to Audubon's earlier Birds of North America; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman wrote the entire descriptive text of the Quadrupeds and, in collaboration with Audubon's sons, published the work in folio and quarto formats beginning in 1845; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman, through his marriage to Harriett Martin, produced many sons and daughters; two daughters married two of Audubon's sons, and created a lineage that continues through many accomplished American families; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman was elected to a three-year term as Vice President of the Charleston Library Society in 1845 and began a five-year teaching position as Professor of Natural History at the College of Charleston in 1848; and

Whereas, he published numerous important natural history papers including Two Letters on Hybridity (1850), Notice of the Types of Mankind by Nott and Gliddon (1854), and Examination of Professor

Whereas, in 1851, Dr. Bachman journeyed to Washington, D.C., meeting with President Millard Fillmore to lobby for federal action that, in a time of political unrest, would mollify the Southern states and preserve the Union; and

Whereas, in 1853, Dr. Bachman published A Defense of Luther and the Reformation, in which he countered on-going Charleston-area attacks on Protestantism; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman, in December 1845, was instrumental in founding the Lutheran-based Newberry College, a liberal arts institution in Newberry, South Carolina; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman served as first president of the Newberry College Board of Trustees beginning in January 1857, and during his tenure, took many actions at the College to assure the high quality of secular and religious education that has continued for 150 years; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman became co-editor of Southern Lutheran magazine in 1860; and

Whereas, although a Unionist, he lead the opening prayer for guidance at Institute Hall in Charleston as the State of South Carolina met on December 20, 1860 to discuss whether to vote for secession, after which he withdrew from political activities and devoted his energies to ministering the sick and needy; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman, despite a beating by Union soldiers that permanently paralyzed his left arm, continued his good work and scholarship; and

Whereas, in 1864, he published Characteristics of Genera and Species, as Applicable to the Doctrine of Unity in the Human Race, in which he argued, from a scientific perspective, that all humans, including slave and master, were the same species, a radical, controversial, visionary, and correct pronouncement that took great courage on his part, particularly, amid the turmoil of the Civil War; and

Whereas, Dr. Bachman's legacy is alive and well at Newberry College, which, led by its Alumni Association, will begin its Sesquicentennial Celebration on April 20, 2006 with a major four-day symposium entitled "Nature, God, and Social Reform in the Old South: The Life and Work of the Rev. John Bachman"; and

Whereas, esteemed international authorities on Bachman will make keynote presentations during Newberry College's John Bachman Symposium; and

Whereas, the public is invited to attend and participate in this auspicious event in the life of Newberry College by registering through the Symposium web site at www.johnbachman.org; and

Whereas, as noted by the diverse accomplishments listed, Dr. Bachman had a lasting and wide-ranging impact on science, education, religion, and social progress in South Carolina, the United States, and beyond; and

Whereas, the month of February is significant because Dr. Bachman was born on February 4, 1790 and died on February 24, 1874; and

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives designate February 2006 as "John Bachman Month" throughout the State of South Carolina, and urge all citizens to recognize this observance and to attend the John Bachman Symposium at Newberry College. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the House of Representatives of the State of South Carolina, by this resolution, commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Newberry College, and the creation by the Alumni Association of an International Symposium planned for April 2006 to recognize the life and work of the college's founder, the Reverend Doctor John

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Newberry College Alumni Association.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 4718 (Word version) -- Reps. Limehouse, Umphlett, Hagood, Merrill, Jefferson, Ceips, Dantzler, Haley, Neilson and Scarborough: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO URGE THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO OPPOSE THE SALE OF LAND IN THE FRANCIS MARION AND SUMTER NATIONAL FORESTS.
The Concurrent Resolution was ordered referred to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

The following was introduced:

H. 4719 (Word version) -- Rep. Davenport: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE TAYLOR LEIGH MORRIS OF SPARTANBURG COUNTY FOR HER OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO HER SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY AND TO WISH HER THE BEST IN ALL FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced:

H. 4720 (Word version) -- Reps. Funderburk, Brady, Ceips, Cobb-Hunter, Haley, Harvin, Haskins, Hinson, Martin, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Neilson, Parks, Young, Agnew, Allen, Altman, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, Bowers, Branham, Breeland, G. Brown, J. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Chalk, Chellis, Clark, Clemmons, Clyburn, Coates, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty,

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following was introduced:

H. 4721 (Word version) -- Rep. Davenport: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR CAITLYN LYDIA CARLILE OF SPARTANBURG COUNTY FOR HER OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO HER SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY AND TO WISH HER THE BEST IN ALL HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

The following Bills were introduced, read the first time, and referred to appropriate committees:

H. 4722 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell, Bannister, Anthony, J. Brown, Davenport, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, W. D. Smith, Talley and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY

H. 4723 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell, Whipper, Davenport, Moody-Lawrence, Hosey, J. H. Neal, Haley, Breeland, Kennedy, Hodges, Haskins, Rivers, Mack, Allen, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bowers, Branham, J. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Emory, Funderburk, Hamilton, Howard, Jefferson, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Parks, Perry, Phillips, F. N. Smith, J. E. Smith, W. D. Smith, Tripp, Viers and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 1-3-630 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE DIVISION ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING WITHIN THE OFFICE OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR WHICH SHALL BE SUPPORTED BY AN ADVISORY COMMISSION ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING WHICH SHALL BE COMPRISED OF INDIVIDUALS FROM A VARIETY OF DISCIPLINES WHO ARE TRAINED AND KNOWLEDGEABLE IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING NEEDS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF BOTH ENTITIES.
Referred to Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs

H. 4724 (Word version) -- Rep. Townsend: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-2100, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF COMMERCIAL

H. 4725 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Cotty, Duncan, Barfield, Battle, Allen, Bales, Ballentine, Bowers, Brady, G. Brown, J. Brown, Ceips, Chalk, Clyburn, Cooper, Edge, Howard, Huggins, Jennings, Leach, Limehouse, McGee, Miller, Norman, Ott, Perry, Sandifer, Scarborough, Thompson, Townsend, Viers, White and Witherspoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 27-32-260 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PREPARATION AND SUPERVISION OF THE CLOSING DOCUMENTS AND THE CLOSING OF A PURCHASE AND SALE OF AN INTEREST IN A VACATION TIME SHARING PLAN, AND TO EXEMPT THE TRANSACTION FROM THE ATTORNEY PREFERENCE REQUIREMENT IN THE CONSUMER PROTECTION CODE IF THE CLOSING DOCUMENTS CONTAIN A CONSPICUOUS DISCLOSURE TO A PARTY TO A PURCHASE AND SALE OF AN INTEREST IN A VACATION TIME SHARING PLAN OF THE NEED TO UNDERSTAND HIS RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS PURSUANT TO THE CLOSING DOCUMENTS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 27-32-10, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN CONNECTION WITH A VACATION TIME SHARING PLAN, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "CONTRACT".
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Rep. J. BROWN moved that the House do now adjourn, which was agreed to.

The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:

H. 4607 (Word version) -- Rep. Hayes: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME THE INTERCHANGE AT THE INTERSECTION ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 95 AND SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 9 IN DILLON COUNTY IN HONOR OF RETIRED FAMILY COURT JUDGE WILLIAM J. MCLEOD IN

At 11:35 a.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. ALLEN, adjourned in memory of Harden and Allean Barksdale, Sr. of Greenville, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.

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