Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 2:00 P.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

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

Beloved, hear words of St. Paul to the Romans (5:3-4):

"... we glory in tribulations also: in knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope."

Let us pray.

"Our Father, as we read between the lines of St. Paul's words to the Romans, we can conclude that these words are for the ages. There is glory in tribulation and it works like this: tribulation gives birth to patience... and patience calls forth experience... and experience gives birth to hope."

Thanks, Father! Thanks for hope that comes through FAITH!
Amen!

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

The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Mark C. Sanford:

Initial Appointment, Kershaw County Magistrate, with term to commence April 30, 2003, and to expire April 30, 2007

William Duncan Corbett, P. O. Box 152, Liberty Hill, S.C. 29074-0152

Initial Appointment, Richland County Magistrate, with term to commence April 30, 2003, and to expire April 30, 2007

Caroline W. Streater, 6450 Goldbranch Road, Columbia, S.C. 29206 VICE James K. Redding

Senator HAWKINS introduced Dr. M. David Mitchell of Spartanburg, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

On motion of Senator RITCHIE, at 2:04 P.M., Senator CLEARY was granted a leave of absence for today.

S. 61 (Word version) -- Senators Sheheen, Elliott and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 110 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY BOARD OF REGENTS AND PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES; TO PROVIDE FOR THE SERVICE OF TRUSTEES OR MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF "CONSTITUENT INSTITUTIONS", DEFINED AS ALL TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN THIS STATE INCLUDING TECHNICAL COLLEGES, TO PROVIDE THAT ON JULY 1, 2005, THE POWERS, DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STATE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION AND THE STATE BOARD FOR TECHNICAL AND COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATION NOT INCONSISTENT WITH CHAPTER 110 OF TITLE 59 ARE DEVOLVED UPON THE SOUTH CAROLINA COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY BOARD OF REGENTS AND TO REPEAL SECTION 59-103-10 RELATING TO THE STATE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION AND SECTION 59-53-10 RELATING TO THE STATE BOARD FOR TECHNICAL AND COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATION ON JULY 1, 2005.

On motion of Senator ELLIOTT, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator ELLIOTT was removed as a co-sponsor of S. 61.

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

Senator HAYES asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Education and ordered the Bill placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

There was no objection.

The Bill was recalled from the committee and ordered placed on the Calendar.

The following were introduced:

S. 626 (Word version) -- Senator Hawkins: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 47-1-40, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ILL-TREATMENT OF ANIMALS, SO AS TO INCLUDE THAT IT IS ILLEGAL TO CONFINE OR RESTRICT THE MOVEMENT OF AN ANIMAL IN A WAY THAT INFLICTS EXTENDED AND UNNECESSARY SUFFERING UPON AN ANIMAL.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

S. 627 (Word version) -- Senators Land and Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 22-3-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CIVIL JURISDICTION IN MAGISTRATES COURTS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE CIVIL JURISDICTION OF THE MAGISTRATES COURTS FROM SEVEN

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

S. 628 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Short, Land, Ritchie, Setzler, Hutto, Cromer, Scott, Mescher, Jackson, Rankin and Hawkins: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-45-320, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CREATING OR RESTRICTING RIGHTS OF PHYSICAL THERAPISTS TO PRACTICE WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THEIR STATUTORY AUTHORITY, SO AS TO ALSO PROVIDE THAT PROVISIONS OF THE PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE ACT MAY NOT BE CONSTRUED TO PROHIBIT OR RESTRICT THE CONDUCT OF A PHYSICAL THERAPIST OR PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT OTHERWISE AUTHORIZED BY THE PROVIDER SELF REFERRAL ACT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 629 (Word version) -- Fish, Game and Forestry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, RELATING TO WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA REGULATIONS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2933, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 630 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 85 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO ENACT THE "FORESTRY DEREGULATION ACT" BY DEFINING THE PRACTICE OF FORESTRY, ESTABLISHING A MISDEMEANOR OFFENSE AND A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION FOR USING A DECEPTIVE, FALSE, OR MISLEADING STATEMENT IN THE PRACTICE OF FORESTRY, AND TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL AND CIVIL PENALTIES; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 27, TITLE 48,

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 631 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-150 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY TO ENACT ORDINANCES FOR THE LOCATION, IDENTIFICATION, INSPECTION, AND REMOVAL OF ABANDONED OR DERELICT MOBILE HOMES, AND TO AUTHORIZE A FEE TO BE COLLECTED TO DEFRAY THE COST OF IMPLEMENTING THIS SECTION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 632 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1350, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MEDICOLEGAL EXAMINATIONS FOLLOWING CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT OR SEXUAL ABUSE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT STANDARDS DEVELOPED FOR RAPE EXAM PROTOCOLS MUST AUTHORIZE REGISTERED NURSES TRAINED AS SEXUAL ASSAULT NURSE EXAMINERS TO CONDUCT FORENSIC EXAMINATIONS ON PATIENTS OF ANY AGE AT ANY TIME THE PATIENT PRESENTS FOR EXAMINATION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 633 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 90 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO ENACT THE "GEOLOGISTS DEREGULATION ACT", WHICH INCLUDES PROVISIONS TO REQUIRE A PERSON WHO ENGAGES IN THE PUBLIC PRACTICE OF GEOLOGY TO BE CERTIFIED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, TO PROVIDE CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS AND TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND TO CREATE A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION FOR USING FALSE, DECEPTIVE, OR

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 634 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 84 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO ENACT THE "AUCTIONEER DEREGULATION ACT" INCLUDING PROVISIONS TO DEFINE "AUCTIONEERING", PROVISIONS ESTABLISHING MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES AND TREBLE DAMAGES IN CIVIL ACTIONS FOR USING DECEPTIVE STATEMENTS OR FOR OBTAINING FEES UNDER DECEPTIVE CIRCUMSTANCES IN THE PRACTICE OF AUCTIONEERING, AND PROVISIONS REQUIRING A PERSON ENGAGING IN THE PRACTICE OF AUCTIONEERING TO HAVE LIABILITY INSURANCE IN THE AMOUNT OF ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS PER OCCURRENCE; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 6, TITLE 40, RELATING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, TO THE CREATION, POWERS, AND DUTIES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA AUCTIONEER'S COMMISSION, THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF AUCTIONEERS, AND THE ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF THE AUCTIONEER RECOVERY FUND.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 635 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 88 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO ENACT THE "PERPETUAL CARE CEMETERY DEREGULATION ACT" REQUIRING A PERSON OR ENTITY TO BE CERTIFIED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION TO OPERATE A PERPETUAL CARE CEMETERY, PROVIDING PROCEDURES WITH WHICH THE DEPARTMENT MUST COMPLY IF A COMPLAINT IS FILED CHARGING A VIOLATION OF THIS CHAPTER, AND

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 636 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO ENACT THE "PYROTECHNICS DEREGULATION ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 23-35-45, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO INDOOR USE OF PYROTECHNICS, SO AS TO UPDATE THE EDITION THAT MUST BE UTILIZED IN SUCH USE OF PYROTECHNICS; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 23-35-50 AND 23-35-70, BOTH AS AMENDED, AND SECTIONS 23-36-140 AND 23-35-150, ALL RELATING TO VARIOUS RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF PYROTECHNIC SAFETY, SO AS TO TRANSFER THESE RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL AND TO PROVIDE THAT PYROTECHNIC LICENSES AND PERMITS MUST BE ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 56, TITLE 40, RELATING TO THE CREATION, POWERS, AND DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF PYROTECHNIC SAFETY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 637 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson, Malloy, J. Verne Smith, Matthews, Cromer, Reese, Knotts, Short, McGill, Leventis, Williams, Patterson and Pinckney: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 68, TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE REGULATION OF STAFF LEASING SERVICES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE TERM "STAFF LEASING SERVICES" TO "PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYER ORGANIZATIONS" AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF THESE ORGANIZATIONS THAT PROVIDE EMPLOYEES TO BUSINESSES GENERALLY ON A LONG TERM BASIS; AND AMONG OTHER THINGS, TO REQUIRE TWO YEARS OF

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 3024 (Word version) -- Reps. Davenport, Barfield, Leach, Rice, Simrill and Mahaffey: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-3950, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE "KEEP SOUTH CAROLINA BEAUTIFUL" SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES, SO AS TO SPECIFY THE PROJECTS THAT THE "KEEP SOUTH CAROLINA BEAUTIFUL FUND" MAY BE USED TO FINANCE, AND TO REVISE THE ALLOCATION OF THE FEES COLLECTED FROM THE ISSUANCE OF "KEEP SOUTH CAROLINA BEAUTIFUL" SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES.

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

H. 3072 (Word version) -- Reps. Cobb-Hunter, Viers, Brady, Toole, Ceips and Scarborough: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 74 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR "BREAST CANCER AWARENESS" SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES.

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

H. 3392 (Word version) -- Reps. Toole, Clyburn, Jefferson, Limehouse, Vaughn, Pinson and Vick: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-150-360, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TUITION ASSISTANCE TO ATTEND A STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE OR A TWO-YEAR INSTITUTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A STUDENT FEELS THAT HE WILL DEFINITELY NOT QUALIFY TO RECEIVE FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID, THE STUDENT MAY

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

H. 3413 (Word version) -- Rep. Talley: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 59-1-390, 59-1-448, 59-1-452, AS AMENDED, 59-5-61, 59-5-65, AS AMENDED, 59-5-140, 59-18-920, 59-20-40, AS AMENDED, 59-24-10, AS AMENDED, 59-24-130, 59-39-100, AS AMENDED, 59-54-20, AS AMENDED, 59-54-40, AS AMENDED, 59-54-50, 59-54-60, AND ARTICLE 21, CHAPTER 53, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, ALL RELATING TO VOCATIONAL EDUCATION, SO AS TO CHANGE REFERENCES FROM "VOCATIONAL EDUCATION", "VOCATIONAL TRAINING", "VOCATIONAL PROGRAMS", AND OTHERS TO "CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION", "CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY TRAINING", "CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS", TO MAKE OTHER CORRESPONDING CHANGES, TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR PROCEDURES REGARDING THE EXPENDITURE OF CERTAIN FUNDING, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.

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

H. 3454 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty and Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 29-3-330, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO METHODS OF ENTERING A MORTGAGE SATISFACTION, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CONTENTS OF THE AFFIDAVIT THAT AN ATTORNEY IS PERMITTED TO FILE IN REGARD TO A MORTGAGE WHICH HE HAS SATISFIED.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

H. 3503 (Word version) -- Reps. Limehouse and Scarborough: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-2010, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF PERSONALIZED LICENSE PLATES BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONALIZED LICENSE PLATES ISSUED TO MEMBERS OF FEDERAL

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

H. 3577 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Frye, Hiott, Ott and Vick: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 46-13-45, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PESTICIDE REGISTRATION FEES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ANNUAL BASIC REGISTRATION FEE, TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR FUTURE INCREASES, AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF THESE FUNDS.

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

H. 3578 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Frye, Hiott, Ott and Vick: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 46-25-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN REGARD TO FERTILIZER REGULATIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "SOIL AMENDMENT"; TO AMEND SECTION 46-25-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ANALYSIS OF PLANT NUTRIENTS, SO AS TO PERMIT THE STATE CROP PEST COMMISSION TO REQUIRE PROOF OF CLAIMS MADE FOR FERTILIZER; AND TO AMEND SECTION 46-25-810, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO AN INSPECTION TAX AND TONNAGE REPORTS IN REGARD TO COMMERCIAL FERTILIZER, SO AS TO INCREASE THE INSPECTION TAX AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE TONNAGE REPORT ON FERTILIZER SOLD, AND FOR CERTAIN ACTIONS WHICH WILL BE TAKEN IF THE REQUIRED TAXES AND REPORTS ARE NOT MADE.

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

H. 3716 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS AND TO PROVIDE REVENUES TO MEET THE ORDINARY EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2005; TO REGULATE THE EXPENDITURE OF SUCH FUNDS; AND TO FURTHER

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

H. 3717 (Word version) -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 2004-2005.

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

H. 3722 (Word version) -- Reps. Littlejohn and W. D. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF CANNONS CAMPGROUND ROAD IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 110 TO DRAYTON AVENUE "LANCE CORPORAL TRAVIS FOX MEMORIAL HIGHWAY", AND TO ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "LANCE CORPORAL TRAVIS FOX MEMORIAL HIGHWAY".

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

H. 3771 (Word version) -- Reps. Breeland, Agnew, Allen, Altman, Anderson, Anthony, Bailey, Bales, Ballentine, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, 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, 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. H. Neal, 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 CONGRATULATE THE CLASS OF 1955 OF ALLEN UNIVERSITY AS IT

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

Senator MARTIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 13 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Moore, Campsen, Elliott, Ritchie, Verdin, Mescher, Setzler, Bryant, Alexander, Fair, Grooms, Richardson and Lourie: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA TEACHER PROTECTION ACT OF 2005; BY ADDING SECTION 15-78-210 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM CIVIL LIABILITY FOR TEACHERS ACTING IN THE SCOPE OF THEIR EMPLOYMENT AND TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION TO THIS PROTECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 59-25-900, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON ASSOCIATED WITH A SCHOOL IN AN OFFICIAL CAPACITY WHO IS INJURED TO THE DEGREE THAT THE PERSON IS UNABLE TO RETURN TO HIS FORMER POSITION BY A STUDENT CONVICTED OF A VIOLATION OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA TEACHER PROTECTION ACT THAT CAUSED THE INJURY MUST BE ALLOWED TO CONTINUE IN ALL RETIREMENT, INSURANCE, AND DEFERRED COMPENSATION PROGRAMS IN WHICH THE PERSON WAS ENROLLED AT THE TIME OF THE INJURY WITH THE EMPLOYER REQUIRED TO CONTINUE EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTIONS ON BEHALF OF THE INJURED EMPLOYEE; TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-612, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF A STUDENT COMMITTING ASSAULT AND BATTERY AGAINST SCHOOL PERSONNEL, SO AS TO REDEFINE INTO THREE OFFENSES WITH SEPARATE PENALTIES FOR EACH, INCLUDING ESTABLISHING THE MOST SERIOUS OFFENSE AS A FELONY, AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 16-3-1535, 16-3-1545, AND 16-3-1550, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS FOR NOTICE FOR CRIME VICTIMS AND WITNESSES TO CRIMES IN CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE OFFENDER PROCEEDINGS, SO AS TO REQUIRE JUDGES IN THESE PROCEEDINGS TO MAKE A

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator ELLIOTT from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 165 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott, Hayes, Alexander, Fair and Richardson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-36-925 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SALES TAX ON THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR BY THE DRINK; TO AMEND SECTION 6-27-40 RELATING TO DISTRIBUTIONS FROM THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUND, SO AS TO REVISE THE AMOUNT OF THE DISTRIBUTION TO COUNTIES THAT MUST BE USED FOR ALCOHOL EDUCATION AND ALCOHOLISM AND DRUG REHABILITATION BUT TO PROVIDE THAT IN NO CASE MAY THE AMOUNT PROVIDED BE LESS THAN THE AMOUNT DISTRIBUTED IN FISCAL YEAR 2001-2002; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-20, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS USED IN THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION OF "ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR BY THE DRINK" AND "ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES BY THE DRINK"; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-700, RELATING TO ESTABLISHMENTS WHICH USE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ONLY IN THE PREPARATION OF FOODS TO BE SERVED BY THE ESTABLISHMENTS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REFERENCE TO MINIBOTTLES; TO AMEND SECTIONS 61-6-1600 AND 61-6-1610, RELATING TO NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS BEING LICENSED TO SELL ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS IN MINIBOTTLES, BOTH SO AS TO DELETE THE AUTHORIZATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS IN MINIBOTTLES, TO AUTHORIZE THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS BY THE DRINK, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-1620, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON MINIBOTTLE LICENSEES; SO AS TO DELETE THE RESTRICTIONS AND TO AUTHORIZE THE POSSESSION AND CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS IN CONTAINERS OTHER THAN MINIBOTTLES ON LICENSED PREMISES; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-1825, RELATING TO THE PROCEDURES TO PROTEST THE ISSUANCE OR RENEWAL OF A MINIBOTTLE LICENSE, SO AS

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator FAIR from the Committee on Corrections and Penology polled out S. 259 favorable with amendment report on:

S. 259 (Word version) -- Senators Fair, Martin, Bryant, Malloy, Cromer and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 24-13-210 AND 24-13-230, BOTH AS AMENDED, RELATING TO GOOD BEHAVIOR, WORK, AND ACADEMIC CREDITS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS TO DEVELOP POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND GUIDELINES TO ALLOW CERTAIN PRISONERS TO RECEIVE A REDUCTION IN THEIR SENTENCES AND TO REVISE THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF TIME THAT MAY BE REDUCED FROM A SENTENCE; TO AMEND SECTION 24-27-200, RELATING TO THE FORFEITURE OF WORK, EDUCATION, OR GOOD CONDUCT CREDITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A REDUCTION IN THESE CREDITS MAY BE IMPLEMENTED PURSUANT TO AN ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE'S RECOMMENDATION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THESE CREDITS MAY BE FORFEITED IF AN INMATE HAS SUBMITTED REPETITIVE CLAIMS PERTAINING TO HIS INCARCERATION OR APPREHENSION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 30-4-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MATTERS EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN ARCHITECTURAL PLANS, DRAWINGS, OR SCHEMATICS OR LAW ENFORCEMENT POLICIES WHOSE DISCLOSURE WOULD REASONABLY BE USED TO FACILITATE AN ESCAPE FROM LAWFUL CUSTODY MAY BE EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE.

Fair                      Thomas                    Patterson
Gregory                   Ryberg                    Anderson
Hawkins                   Courson                   Bryant
Lourie                    Scott

Ford                      Pinckney                  Leatherman
Hayes                     Sheheen                   Williams

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator HAWKINS from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:

S. 293 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 17-13-47 SO AS TO ALLOW A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER EMPLOYED BY A NEIGHBORING STATE TO ENTER SOUTH CAROLINA IN FRESH PURSUIT OF A PERSON WHO IS IN FLIGHT FROM THE COMMISSION OF A CRIMINAL OFFENSE IN THE NEIGHBORING STATE AND TO ARREST THE PERSON, TO PROVIDE FOR A PROCEDURE TO DETERMINE THE LAWFULNESS OF THE ARREST, THE RELEASE OF THE PERSON ARRESTED, AND THE EXTRADITION OF THE ARRESTED PERSON, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THIS SECTION APPLIES ONLY TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS EMPLOYED BY A NEIGHBORING STATE WHEN HIS STATE HAS ENACTED A PROVISION SIMILAR TO THIS SECTION RELATING TO THE ARREST AND CUSTODY OF A PERSON PURSUED INTO A NEIGHBORING STATE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 401 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-149-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ELIGIBILITY OF A STUDENT TO RECEIVE A LIFE SCHOLARSHIP, SO AS TO INCLUDE A STUDENT WHOSE PARENT OR GUARDIAN IS IN THE MILITARY OR HAS RETIRED FROM THE MILITARY WITHIN

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:

S. 403 (Word version) -- Senators Sheheen and Malloy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-150-250, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SALE OF A LOTTERY TICKET OR SHARE TO A MINOR, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COURT THE DISCRETION TO REDUCE THE FINE OR GIVE A WARNING UPON CONVICTION FOR A FIRST OFFENSE OF VIOLATING THE PROVISIONS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 414 (Word version) -- Senators Moore and Setzler: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-149-50, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ELIGIBILITY FOR LIFE SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO REVISE ELIGIBILITY AND RETENTION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP BY INCLUDING A REQUIREMENT THAT THE CUMULATIVE GRADE POINT AVERAGE CALCULATION, FOR PURPOSES OF LIFE SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITY, MUST BE INCLUSIVE OF THE STUDENT'S GRADE POINT AVERAGE AT ALL PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTIONS ATTENDED BY THE STUDENT.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 422 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Hayes and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 7, TITLE 62 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TRUST ADMINISTRATION, SO AS TO ENACT THE UNIFORM TRUST CODE BY PROVIDING A COMPREHENSIVE CODIFICATION OR RECODIFICATION OF MUCH OF EXISTING TRUST LAW AND SUPPLEMENTING EXISTING COMMON LAW UNLESS THE

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator COURSON from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 482 (Word version) -- Senators Patterson, Lourie and Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-149-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LIFE SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO REVISE THE INSTITUTIONS WHICH ARE QUALIFIED TO RECEIVE LIFE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:

S. 491 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Martin and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 42-3-80, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENT OF THE WORKERS' COMPENSATION COMMISSION, SO AS TO TIE THE MAXIMUM SALARY PAID TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR TO THE SALARY PAID TO COMMISSIONERS INSTEAD OF CIRCUIT JUDGES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable report on:

S. 535 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Moore, Ryberg, Richardson and Pinckney: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-237, AS AMENDED, CODE

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

S. 618 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Setzler, Short, Verdin, Drummond and Knotts: A BILL TO ENACT THE STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM PRESERVATION AND INVESTMENT REFORM ACT BY AMENDING SECTION 9-1-1790, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EARNING LIMIT APPLICABLE TO RETIRED MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RETIREMENT SYSTEM WHO RETURN TO COVERED EMPLOYMENT, SO AS TO REQUIRE THESE MEMBERS TO PAY THE EMPLOYEE CONTRIBUTION FOR ACTIVE MEMBERS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-620, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LUMP SUM PAYMENTS FOR ANNUAL LEAVE FOR STATE EMPLOYEES, SO AS TO POSTPONE THIS LUMP SUM FOR TERI PARTICIPANTS UNTIL THE EMPLOYEE ENDS TERI PARTICIPATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 9-1-2210, RELATING TO THE TERI PROGRAM, SO AS TO REQUIRE TERI PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS TO PAY THE EMPLOYEE CONTRIBUTION FOR ACTIVE MEMBERS, TO DELAY UNTIL A MEMBER ENDS PARTICIPATION THE INCLUSION OF THE APPLICABLE AMOUNT OF THE MEMBERS UNUSED ANNUAL LEAVE IN THE CALCULATION OF AVERAGE FINAL COMPENSATION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE RECALCULATION OF AVERAGE FINAL COMPENSATION WHEN THE MEMBER ENDS PARTICIPATION IN TERI FOR PURPOSES OF THE MEMBERS' FUTURE RETIREMENT BENEFITS OR OF A BENEFICIARY OF FUTURE BENEFITS ON THE DEATH OF A TERI PARTICIPANT WHO ELECTED A

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LEATHERMAN from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:

S. 617 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Setzler, Short, Verdin, Ryberg and Knotts: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 16, ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO BENEFITS AND FUNDING OF PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PENSION PLANS IN THIS STATE. INVESTMENTS ALLOWED FOR FUNDS OF THE VARIOUS STATE-OPERATED RETIREMENT SYSTEMS, AND THE STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS INVESTMENT PANEL, SO AS TO DELETE THE RESTRICTIONS LIMITING SUCH INVESTMENTS TO AMERICAN-BASED CORPORATIONS

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GREGORY from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3246 (Word version) -- Reps. Duncan, Taylor and M.A. Pitts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-870, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO BIRD SANCTUARIES, SO AS TO DECLARE AS A BIRD SANCTUARY THE GROUNDS OF THE PRESBYTERIAN HOME OF SOUTH CAROLINA LOCATED ON HIGHWAY 56 IN THE TOWN OF CLINTON IN LAURENS COUNTY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Columbia, S.C., March 15, 2005

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it concurs in the amendments proposed by the Senate to:

H. 3026 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, G.M. Smith, Edge, Sandifer, Coates, Kirsh and Bales: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 6-9-40, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ADOPTION AND PROMULGATION OF CERTAIN BUILDING CODES AND STANDARDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE MODIFICATIONS PROMULGATED PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION DO NOT REQUIRE READOPTION BY THE BUILDING CODES COUNCIL FOR SUBSEQUENT EDITIONS OF THE BUILDING CODES, AND TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE TO RECONSIDER EXISTING MODIFICATIONS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

S. 622 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND CONGRATULATE THE GEORGIA PACIFIC CORPORATION'S RUSSELLVILLE PLANT AND ITS EMPLOYEES FOR ACCEPTANCE INTO THE UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY'S NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE TRACK PROGRAM.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 624 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bryant, Campsen, Cleary, Courson, Cromer, Drummond, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hawkins, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, Martin, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Mescher, Moore, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Richardson, Ritchie, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Short, J. Verne Smith, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS OF LOWELL C. "BUTCH" SPIRES, JR., OF LEXINGTON COUNTY UPON HIS DEATH AND TO EXPRESS THE GRATITUDE OF THE CITIZENS OF LEXINGTON COUNTY, THE MIDLANDS REGION, AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA FOR HIS MANY CONTRIBUTIONS TO HIS COMMUNITY, COUNTY, AND STATE.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 625 (Word version) -- Senators Lourie, Alexander, Anderson, Bryant, Campsen, Cleary, Courson, Cromer, Drummond, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hawkins, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Knotts, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Malloy, Martin, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Mescher, Moore, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Richardson, Ritchie, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Short, J. Verne Smith, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND AND CONGRATULATE RICHLAND COUNTY SHERIFF LEON LOTT ON BEING NAMED "SHERIFF OF THE YEAR" FOR 2004 BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION AND TO WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS IN THE FUTURE.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

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

H. 3130 (Word version) -- Reps. Scarborough, Harrell, Vaughn and Bowers: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 18, TITLE 41, TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RIDER SAFETY ACT" SO AS TO REQUIRE RIDERS OF AMUSEMENT AND CARNIVAL DEVICES TO COMPLY WITH CERTAIN SAFETY REQUIREMENTS, TO REPORT INJURIES IN A TIMELY MANNER, TO REQUIRE OWNERS OF SUCH DEVICES TO POST SIGNS RELATING TO RIDER SAFETY, AND TO ESTABLISH A MISDEMEANOR FOR VIOLATIONS OF THIS ARTICLE; AND TO DESIGNATE SECTIONS 41-18-10 THROUGH 41-18-150 AS ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 18, TITLE 41, AND TO NAME THAT ARTICLE "GENERAL PROVISIONS".

Senator McCONNELL explained the Bill.

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

H. 3234 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Wilkins, Harvin, Walker, J.E. Smith, Altman, Tripp, Bowers and Bailey: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 7, CHAPTER 11 OF TITLE 55, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO STATE FUNDING OF AIR CARRIER HUB TERMINAL FACILITIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE A FACILITY THAT OPERATES TWO OR MORE SPECIAL, STATE-TAXED PLANES FOR THE TRANSPORT OF SPECIAL CARGO, TO INCLUDE AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT THAT IS FUNCTIONALLY RELATED TO AIR CARRIER HUB TERMINAL FACILITIES SATISFYING THE CRITERIA, TO PROVIDE THAT

Senator ALEXANDER explained the Bill.

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

S. 49 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Elliott, Hutto, Leventis, Rankin, Patterson, Land, Short, Richardson, Lourie, McConnell and Courson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-290 SO AS TO REQUIRE HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS TO PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR TREATMENT OF MENTAL ILLNESS OR ALCOHOL OR SUBSTANCE ABUSE, TO ALLOW A PLAN THAT DOES NOT PROVIDE FOR MANAGEMENT OF CARE OR THE SAME DEGREE OF MANAGEMENT OF CARE FOR ALL HEALTH CONDITIONS TO PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR SUCH TREATMENT THROUGH A MANAGED CARE ORGANIZATION, TO ESTABLISH TREATMENT CONDITIONS TO QUALIFY FOR COVERAGE, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON THE FISCAL IMPACT.

S. 202 (Word version) -- Senators Sheheen, Lourie and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-5-175 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A LENDER WHO DELIVERS AN UNSOLICITED CHECK TO A PERSON MUST DISCLOSE THAT THE CHECK SECURES A LOAN, THE TERMS OF THE LOAN, AND NOTICE THAT BY NEGOTIATING THE CHECK THE RECIPIENT HAS ENTERED INTO A LOAN AGREEMENT, TO PROVIDE PROTECTION AND RECOURSE FOR INTENDED PAYEES IF AN UNSOLICITED CHECK IS CASHED FRAUDULENTLY, AND TO PROVIDE THAT

Senator SHEHEEN explained the Bill.

S. 289 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2420, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO COMMERCIAL FUR LICENSES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE LICENSE FEES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2460, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TRAPPING OF FURBEARERS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE TYPES OF TRAPS WHICH MAY BE USED; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2475, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A FUR PROCESSOR'S LICENSE, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THOSE PERSONS WHO ARE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A LICENSE AND FOR THOSE WHO ARE NOT; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2480, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PERSONS WHO ARE NOT REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A FUR BUYERS LICENSE, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CORRECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2490, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO FUR BUYERS AND PROCESSORS REQUIRED TO KEEP A DAILY REGISTER, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THOSE PERSONS REQUIRED TO KEEP SUCH A REGISTER AND THE CONTENTS OF THE REGISTER; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2510, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE TAGGING OF BOBCAT AND OTTER FURS, PELTS, AND HIDES AND THE ISSUANCE AND FEES FOR THOSE TAGS, SO AS TO REVISE THOSE PERSONS REQUIRED TO HAVE SUCH A TAG AND THE FEES AND PROCEDURES FOR THOSE TAGS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2515, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL TRAFFICKING IN FURS OR FURBEARING ANIMALS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE ELEMENTS OF THIS OFFENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2540, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE COMMERCIAL TRAPPING SEASON FOR FURBEARING ANIMALS, SO AS TO REVISE THE LENGTH OF THIS SEASON; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2560, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATING THE PROVISIONS OF CERTAIN FUR AND FURBEARING PROVISIONS OF LAW, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THOSE PROVISIONS TO WHICH THESE PENALTIES APPLY; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-2610,

S. 67 (Word version) -- Senators Short, Elliott and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 6-11-1460 SO AS TO ENACT THE "VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER JOB PROTECTION ACT", PROHIBITING AN EMPLOYER FROM FIRING A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER WHO MISSES TIME AT WORK AS A RESULT OF RESPONDING TO AN EMERGENCY IN THE COURSE OF PERFORMING HIS DUTIES AS A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER, ALLOWING THE EMPLOYER TO REQUIRE A WRITTEN STATEMENT AND REASONABLE NOTICE AND TO DEDUCT TIME LOST FROM THE EMPLOYEE'S REGULAR PAY, TO CREATE A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION FOR VIOLATION OF THIS ACT AND PROVIDE REMEDIES, AND TO MAKE THIS ACT APPLICABLE TO A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER FOR A FIRE AUTHORITY SERVING A POPULATION OF THREE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED OR LESS.

S. 117 (Word version) -- Senators Ritchie, Fair and Richardson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-150-350, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATION OF THE EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SCHOLARSHIP RESERVE ACCOUNT, FUNDED BY EXCESS LOTTERY PROCEEDS AND INVESTMENT EARNINGS, FOR THE EXCLUSIVE PURPOSE OF MAINTAINING FUNDING OF CERTAIN SCHOLARSHIPS, GRANTS, AND ASSISTANCES IF CERTIFIED NET LOTTERY PROCEEDS AND INVESTMENT EARNINGS ARE INSUFFICIENT TO FUND THEM, TO DEFINE "EXCESS", AND TO LIMIT THE AMOUNT OF THE RESERVE TO THREE PERCENT OF THE EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT REVENUE FOR THE LATEST COMPLETED FISCAL YEAR.

Senator ALEXANDER explained the Bill.

S. 348 (Word version) -- Senators Thomas and J. Verne Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 45-2-70 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE POSTING OF RULES IN LODGING ESTABLISHMENTS, TO

S. 509 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-7-255 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGISTRATION AND REGULATION OF PERSONS WHO PRACTICE HAIR BRAIDING, INCLUDING REQUIRING A REGISTRATION FEE, A SIX HOUR BOARD-APPROVED HAIR BRAIDING COURSE, AND AN EXAMINATION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-7-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED IN CONNECTION WITH THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF BARBERS, SO AS TO DEFINE "HAIR BRAIDING".

Senators McCONNELL, SHEHEEN, PINCKNEY, RITCHIE, MATTHEWS and PATTERSON desired to be recorded as voting against the third reading of the Bill.

S. 581 (Word version) -- Senator Lourie: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 14 TO TITLE 41 SO AS TO ENACT THE "BOILER SAFETY ACT" TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION SHALL PROMULGATE REGULATIONS FOR THE SAFE INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR OF BOILERS IN THIS STATE, INCLUDING STANDARDS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION AND FOR BOILERS IN USE; TO

I wish the Journal to reflect that I abstained from consideration of and voting on S. 581.

S. 286 (Word version) -- Senator Hawkins: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD TO TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OF A SURPLUS NATIONAL GUARD ARMORY IN INMAN, SOUTH CAROLINA, TO THE SPARTANBURG COUNTY DISTRICT ONE SCHOOL BOARD.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Resolution, the question being the third reading of the Resolution.

On motion of Senator HAWKINS, with unanimous consent, a further amendment was taken up for immediate consideration on third reading.

Senator HAWKINS proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (286R001.HKL), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, page 1, by striking line 32 and inserting:

/   Control Board is directed to transfer ownership of the surplus /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 144 (Word version) -- Senators Mescher, Short and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTIONS 59-63-80 AND 59-63-90 TO REQUIRE SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO ADOPT A POLICY AUTHORIZING A STUDENT TO SELF ADMINISTER ASTHMA MEDICATION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE ELEMENTS OF THE POLICY INCLUDING REQUIRING THE PARENT OF THE STUDENT TO PROVIDE CERTAIN MEDICAL INFORMATION, AND TO AMEND SECTION 15-78-60 BY PROVIDING IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY FOR DISTRICTS AND THEIR EMPLOYEES.

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

The Senate Education Committee proposed the following amendment (PT\2431SJ05), which was adopted:

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

/ SECTION   1.   Article 1, Chapter 63, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 59-63-80.   (A)   As used in this section:

(1)   'medication' is defined as medication prescribed by a health care provider contained in the original packaging with the appropriate pharmacy label;

(2)   'monitoring device' is defined as implements prescribed by a health care provider for monitoring a chronic health condition; and

(3)   'individual health care plan' (IHP) is defined as a plan of care designed specifically for an individual student to provide for meeting the health monitoring and care of the student during the school day or at school-sponsored functions.

(B)   Each school district shall adopt a policy requiring that students with special health care needs have individual health care plans. This policy must provide for the authorization of a student to self-monitor and self-administer medication as prescribed by the student's health care provider unless there is sufficient evidence that unsupervised

(1)   a requirement that the student's parent or legal guardian provide to the school:

(a)   written authorization from the parent or legal guardian for the student to self-monitor and self-administer medication; and

(b)   a written statement from the student's health care practitioner who prescribed the medication verifying that the student has a medical condition and has been instructed and demonstrates competency in self-monitoring or self-administration of medications, or both.

(2)   authorization for a student to possess on his person and administer medication while:

(a)   in the classroom and in any area of the school or school grounds;

(b)   at a school-sponsored activity;

(c)   in transit to or from school or school-sponsored activities; or

(d)   during before-school or after-school activities on school-operated property.

(C)   The statements required in subsection (B)(1) must be kept on file in the office of the school nurse or school administrator.

(D)(1)   The State Department of Education shall develop guidelines for required components of a written student individual health care plan which must be developed with input from and with the approval of:

(a)   the student's health care practitioner who prescribed the medication;

(b)   the parent or legal guardian;

(c)   the student, if appropriate; and

(d)   the school nurse or other designated school staff member.

(2)   If a student qualifies for a Federal 504 medical accommodations plan, that process must meet the requirements for the state-required individual health plan.

(3)   The parent or guardian and the student, if appropriate, shall authorize the school to share the student's individual health care plan with school staff who have a legitimate need for knowledge of the information.

(E)   All medication authorized to be carried by the student must be maintained in a container appropriately labeled by the pharmacist who filled the prescription.

(F)   A student's permission to self-monitor or self-administer medication may be revoked if the student endangers himself or others through misuse of the monitoring device or medication.

(G)   The permission for self-monitoring or self-administration of medication is effective for the school year in which it is granted and must be renewed each school year upon fulfilling the requirements of this section.

(H)   A parent or guardian shall sign a statement acknowledging that:

(1)   the school district and its employees and agents are not liable for an injury arising from a student's self-monitoring or self-administration of medication;

(2)   the parent or guardian shall indemnify and hold harmless the district and its employees and agents against a claim arising from a student's self-monitoring or self-administration of medication.

Section 59-63-90.   The State Department of Education shall develop a notice to be sent by each school district to all parents or legal guardians that notifies them of available services and rights pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the IDEA, and medical homebound regulations at the beginning of the school year."

SECTION   2.   Section 15-78-60 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding an appropriately numbered item to read:

"( )   an injury a student may sustain as a result of self-monitoring or self-administering medications or for an injury that a student may sustain from taking or using medications or self-monitoring devices for which the student does not have a prescription or does not have authorization by the school district."

SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HAYES explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator MESCHER proposed the following amendment (PT\ 2458SJ05), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-63-80 as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting subsection (A) in its entirety and inserting:

/   (A)   As used in this section:

(1)   'medication' is defined as medication prescribed by a health care provider contained in the original packaging with the appropriate

(2)   'monitoring device' is defined as implements prescribed by a health care provider for monitoring a chronic health condition; and

(3)   'individual health care plan' (IHP) is defined as a plan of care designed specifically for an individual student to provide for meeting the health monitoring and care of the student during the school day or at school-sponsored functions. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HAYES explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

S. 185 (Word version) -- Senators Martin, McConnell, Alexander, Ford, Bryant and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1340, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF VOTE RECORDERS, SO AS TO ADD REFERENCES TO OPTICAL SCAN VOTING DEVICES AND DELETE PROVISIONS REQUIRING SEPARATE VOTES FOR PRESIDENT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-320, RELATING TO BALLOT STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROHIBITION AGAINST COMBINING THE OFFICIAL BALLOT FOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTORS WITH ANY OTHER OFFICIAL BALLOTS.

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

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD0185.002), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 1, lines 29-30, in Section 7-13-1340, as contained in SECTION 1, by striking lines 29 and 30 in their entirety and inserting therein the following:

/   "Section 7-13-1340.   No A vote recorder or optical scan voting device shall must not be adopted or used unless it shall, at the time, /.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MARTIN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

S. 209 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXTEND THE EXEMPTION ALLOWED PROPERTY OWNED BY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTS AND RESCUE SQUADS TO PROPERTY LEASED BY SUCH DEPARTMENTS AND SQUADS.

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

Senate Finance Committee proposed the following amendment (GGS\22020HTC05), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking Section 12-37-220(B)(19) as contained in Section 1, page 1, and inserting:

/   (19)   All property owned by volunteer fire departments and rescue squads used exclusively for the purposes of such these departments and squads. Property leased to a department or squad by an entity itself exempt from property tax is exempt in the same manner that property owned by these departments and squads is exempt.   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The committee amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

S. 483 (Word version) -- Senators Matthews, Knotts, J. Verne Smith, Sheheen, Land, Patterson, Scott, Hutto and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 TO CHAPTER 127, TITLE 59 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC AND ADMINISTRATIVE FACILITIES BOND ACT", WHICH PRESCRIBES THE MANNER IN WHICH AND CONDITION UNDER WHICH SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY MAY ISSUE CERTAIN REVENUE BONDS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF ACADEMIC AND ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDINGS.

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

The Finance Committee proposed the following amendment (483R001.JWM), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking Sections 59-127-490 and 59-127-500 as contained on page 2, lines 36-42 and page 3, lines 1-18:

/     Section 59-127-490.   As used in this article:

(1)   'Board' means the Board of Trustees of South Carolina State University.

(2)   'Equipment' means items with a useful life of at least fifteen years.

(3)   'Academic and administrative buildings' means the real and personal property and equipment to be utilized by the College of Engineering, Science and Mathematics and the College of Education, whether or not the acquisition or construction of these facilities are financed from the proceeds of bonds, notes, or other indebtedness issued pursuant to the provisions of this article.

(4)   'Fees and revenues' means the special student fees, auxiliary fees, and revenues derived or to be derived from the operation, sale, lease, or other disposition of the facilities.

(5)   'University' means South Carolina State University.

Section 59-127-500.   Subject to the approval of the Joint Bond Review Committee and the State Budget and Control Board by resolution adopted, the university may issue bonds, notes, or other forms of indebtedness for the purpose of financing or refinancing in

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ALEXANDER explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted

Senator MATTHEWS proposed the following amendment (PT\ 2460SJ05), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, Section 59-127-490 as contained in SECTION 1, by deleting item (3) in its entirety and inserting:

/   "(3)   'Academic and administrative buildings' means the real and personal property and equipment to be utilized by the College of Engineering, Science and Mathematics, the College of Education, Humanities and Social Science, and the College of Business and Applied Professional Sciences, whether or not the acquisition or construction of these facilities are financed from the proceeds of bonds, notes, or other indebtedness issued pursuant to the provisions of this article. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MATTHEWS explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

On motion of Senator ANDERSON, with unanimous consent, the names of Senators ANDERSON and FORD were added as co-sponsors of S. 483.

S. 510 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO ENACT THE BUDGET PROVISO CODIFICATION ACT OF 2005, BY AMENDING THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 44-6-110 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MEDICAID RECIPIENTS ARE DEEMED TO HAVE CONSENTED TO GENERIC PRESCRIPTION DRUG SUBSTITUTIONS; BY ADDING SECTIONS 44-6-115, 44-6-118, 44-6-121, AND 44-6-124 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR EFFECTIVE MEDICAID PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGEMENT, INCLUDING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PHARMACY AND THERAPEUTICS COMMITTEE, WHICH SHALL RECOMMEND CLASSES OF DRUGS THAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED ON A PREFERRED DRUG LIST AND CRITERIA FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF A PREFERRED DRUG LIST PROGRAM; BY ADDING SECTION 17-3-340 SO AS TO ALLOW THE COMMISSION ON INDIGENT DEFENSE TO CARRY FORWARD UNPAID OBLIGATIONS AND PAY THEM FROM FUNDS APPROPRIATED FOR THE SUCCEEDING FISCAL YEAR; BY ADDING SECTIONS 56-1-545 AND 56-1-550 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE SALE OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND TO PROVIDE THAT NO FEE IS DUE ON ANNUAL LICENSE PLATE VALIDATION STICKERS FOR PUBLIC LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES; BY ADDING SECTIONS 24-1-295 AND 24-1-300 SO AS TO ALLOW THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS TO RETAIN CANTEEN OPERATION REVENUES AND, PROVIDE FOR THEIR USE, PROVIDE THAT CANTEEN OPERATIONS MUST BE TREATED AS AN ENTERPRISE FUND, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS OF INMATES; BY ADDING SECTION 24-21-310 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES TO SET A PER DAY HOUSING AND FOOD CHARGE FOR THE OPERATION OF RESTITUTION CENTERS; BY ADDING SECTIONS 20-7-6915, 20-7-6920, 20-7-6925, AND 20-7-6930 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE RELEASE FOR GOOD BEHAVIOR OF A CHILD COMMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE, TO ALLOW THIS DEPARTMENT TO PLACE JUVENILES IN MARINE AND WILDERNESS OR OTHER COMMUNITY RESIDENCE PROGRAMS OPERATED BY NONGOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE EDUCATION OF JUVENILES

Senator LEATHERMAN asked unanimous consent to recommit the Bill to the Committee on Finance, retaining its place on the Calendar.

There was no objection.

The Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Finance, retaining its place on the Calendar.

S. 623 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO MEMORIALIZE THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO PASS AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES TO ENACT IMMEDIATELY A WELL-FUNDED, MULTI-YEAR REAUTHORIZATION OF FEDERAL AND HIGHWAY TRANSIT PROGRAMS.

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

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate agreed to dispense with the Motion Period.

HAVING DISPENSED WITH THE MOTION PERIOD, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RETURNED FROM THE HOUSE.

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'

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being concurrence in the House amendments.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, the Bill was carried over.

S. 326 (Word version) -- Senators Ritchie, Gregory, Sheheen, J. Verne Smith and Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 258 OF 2004, RELATING TO THE AQUATIC LIFE PROTECTION ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT DO NOT APPLY TO ANY NEW, MODIFIED, OR RENEWAL PERMIT CONTAINING WHOLE EFFLUENT TOXICITY (WET) PERMIT LIMITS WHICH WAS DRAFTED AND PENDING ISSUANCE BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL ON THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ACT, SO LONG AS THE WET PERMIT LIMITS CONTAINED IN THE PERMIT ARE ACCEPTABLE TO THE PERMITTEE.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator RITCHIE, the Senate concurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly. Ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act and the Act enrolled for Ratification.

H. 3373 (Word version) -- Reps. W.D. Smith, Walker, Sinclair, Davenport, Littlejohn, Mahaffey and Talley: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 57-23-810 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PORTION OF

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator RICHARDSON, the Senate nonconcurred in the House amendments and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.

S. 80 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Moore, Campsen, Ryberg, Verdin, Alexander, Gregory, Grooms and Richardson: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR THE RESTRUCTURING OF CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS AND CABINET AGENCIES. (ABBREVIATED TITLE)

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

On motion of Senator HAYES, with unanimous consent, Senators HAYES, ALEXANDER, LAND, GROOMS and MATTHEWS were granted leave to attend a meeting, be counted in any quorum calls and be granted leave to vote from the balcony.

Senator MARTIN explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the following amendment was taken up for immediate consideration and adopted:

Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (JUD0080.006), which was adopted:

Amend the committee report, as and if amended, page [80-78], by striking lines 16-19 and inserting:

/   advice and consent of the Senate. The State Chief Information Officer serves at the pleasure of the Budget and Control Board and may

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator MARTIN resumed explaining the Bill.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over in the status of Special Order.

S. 22 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, McConnell, Leventis, Sheheen, Hayes, Alexander, Ford, McGill, Williams and Malloy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 14-7-1610, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE LEGISLATIVE INTENT OF ARTICLE 15, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 14, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THERE IS A NEED TO ENHANCE THE GRAND JURY SYSTEM TO IMPROVE THE ABILITY OF THE STATE TO DETECT AND INVESTIGATE VIOLATIONS WHICH RESULT IN HARM TO THE ENVIRONMENT AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, BECAUSE OF ITS UNIQUE QUALIFICATIONS, MUST PLAY A SUBSTANTIAL ROLE IN THE INVESTIGATION OF ANY SUCH ALLEGED ENVIRONMENTAL OFFENSE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 14-7-1630, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE STATE GRAND JURY, SO AS TO EXTEND THE SUBJECT MATTER JURISDICTION OF THE STATE GRAND JURY TO INCLUDE WILFUL CRIMINAL VIOLATIONS WHICH RESULT IN HARM TO THE ENVIRONMENT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL MUST MAKE A FORMAL WRITTEN RECOMMENDATION TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND THE CHIEF OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION IN CONSIDERATION OF THE NEED TO IMPANEL A STATE GRAND JURY.

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

Senator Ritchie proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (JUD0022.002), which was adopted:

Amend the committee report, as and if amended, page [22-1], by striking lines 36-40 and inserting:

/   Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 5, by striking lines 32-40 and inserting:

//   (8)   a crime involving actual and substantial harm to the water, ambient air, soil or land, or both soil and land. Such a crime includes a willful violation of the Pollution Control Act or a violation of the Atomic Energy and Radiation Control Act, the State Underground Petroleum Environmental Response Bank Act, the State Safe Drinking Water Act, the Hazardous Waste Management Act, the Infectious Waste Management Act, the Solid Waste Policy and Management Act, the Erosion and Sediment Control Act, the South Carolina     //   /

Amend title to conform.

Senator RITCHIE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD0022.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 3, by striking lines 13-15 and inserting:

/   and investigate crimes which result in actual and substantial harm to the environment. These crimes include, but are not limited to, offenses specified in   /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 3, by striking line 43 and inserting:

/   carry out the provisions of Sections 14-7-1630(A)(8) and   /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 4, by striking lines 1-4 and inserting:

/   14-7-1630(C).     /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 5, by striking lines 32-34 and inserting:

/   (8) a crime involving actual and substantial harm to the water, ambient air, soil or land, or both soil and land. Such a crime includes, but is not     /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 6, by striking line 3 and inserting:

/   million dollars or more. If the crime is a violation of federal law, then a conviction or an acquittal under federal law for the same act is a bar to the impaneling of a state grand jury pursuant to this section./

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 6, by striking line 18 and inserting:

/   (A)(8), except in matters where the Department of Health and/

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 6, by striking lines 38-40 and inserting:

/   (2) Where an individual employee performs a criminal violation of the environmental laws that results in actual and substantial harm pursuant to subsection (A)(8) and which   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RITCHIE explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted, as amended.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over, as amended, in the status of Special Order.

Having received a favorable report from the Kershaw County Delegation, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Initial Appointment, Kershaw County Magistrate, with term to commence April 30, 2003, and to expire April 30, 2007

William Duncan Corbett, P. O. Box 152, Liberty Hill, S.C. 29074-0152

Having received a favorable report from the Richland County Delegation, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Initial Appointment, Richland County Magistrate, with term to commence April 30, 2003, and to expire April 30, 2007

Caroline W. Streater, 6450 Goldbranch Road, Columbia, S.C. 29206 VICE James K. Redding

Having received a favorable report from the Committee on Corrections and Penology, the following appointment was confirmed in open session:

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Board of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, with term to commence March 15, 2005, and to expire March 15, 2011

2nd Congressional District:

James A. Gordon, 100 Northeast Dr., Suite 113, Columbia, S.C. 29203 VICE June Strother Shissias

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Charles Ray Buck Maynor, Sr. of Gaffney, S.C. Mr. Maynor was a veteran, having served in the U. S. Navy during WWII, and was a member of Mountain View Baptist Church of Cowpens, S.C., and was a retired painting contractor.

At 3:37 P.M., on motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.

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