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, the 84th Psalm is one of a group of psalms celebrating the PRESENCE OF GOD in Jerusalem. Hear the words:

"My heart and my flesh cry out for the   LIVING GOD... even the   sparrow has found a home, and   the swallow a nest for herself, where   she may lay her young."

Let us pray.

Father, today we pray for the homeless - those who need shelter from the elements. Help us as we help those who care for them and provide for them.

Bless, O Lord, our boys and girls and men and women who wear the uniform of the USA, that their needs of every kind may be provided.

Father, bless us as we seek to help others and meet the needs of those that we serve. Thank You for Your blessings!
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, South Carolina Mining Council, with term to commence June 30, 2004, and to expire June 30, 2008

Mining Industry:

Roger C. Dunlap, Vulcan Materials Co., P. O. Box 8834, Greenville, S.C. 29604 VICE James Daniel

Referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Reappointment, John De La Howe School Board of Trustees, with term to commence April 1, 2005, and to expire April 1, 2010

At-Large:

Alan D. Gardner, P. O. Box 695, Newberry, S.C. 29108

Referred to the Committee on Education.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission, with term to commence June 30, 2006, and to expire June 30, 2012

At-Large:

Andrea C. Pope, 2928 Forest Drive, Columbia, S.C. 29204 VICE Lisa Chavis Glover

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Commission for Minority Affairs, with term to commence June 30, 2005, and to expire June 30, 2009

3rd Congressional District:

Sherita Bolden, 2500 Fleming Dr., Anderson, S.C. 29621 VICE Patricia Pena

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Mental Health Commission, with term to commence March 21, 2006, and to expire March 21, 2011

3rd Congressional District:

Jane B. Jones, Century 21-Flynn/Youngblood Co., 3401-A, Earle E. Morris, Jr. Highway, Piedmont, S.C. 29673 VICE George C. Wilson

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Commission on Disabilities and Special Needs, with term to commence June 30, 2004, and to expire June 30, 2008

2nd Congressional District:

Mary Katherine Miller, 1940 Old Neck Road, Columbia, S.C. 29206 VICE Alicia Harvey

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Initial Appointment, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, with term to commence June 1, 2002, and to expire June 1, 2006

Audiologist:

Alan Smith, AuD, Anderson Audiology Consultants, PA, 1209 North Fant St., Anderson, S.C. 29621 VICE Lynn M. Lehman, AuD

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Reappointment, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, with term to commence June 1, 2006, and to expire June 1, 2010

Audiologist:

Alan Smith, AuD, Anderson Audiology Consultants, PA, 1209 North Fant Street, Anderson, S.C. 29621

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Senator THOMAS introduced Dr. William B. Jones of Greenville, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

On motion of Senator PATTTERSON, at 2:05 P.M., Senator MATTHEWS was granted a leave of absence for today.

S. 1012 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell and Ritchie: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-19-70, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PLEDGING, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON OR JUDICIAL CANDIDATE FROM DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY SEEKING THE PLEDGE OF A MEMBER OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGARDING SCREENING FOR ANY JUDICIAL OFFICE UNTIL THE QUALIFICATIONS OF ALL THE CANDIDATES HAVE BEEN DETERMINED BY THE JUDICIAL MERIT SELECTION COMMISSION AND THE COMMISSION HAS FORMALLY RELEASED ITS REPORT.

On motion of Senator FORD, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator FORD was added as a co-sponsor of S. 1012.

S. 1084 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Ritchie, Bryant and Campsen: A BILL TO ENACT THE "UNBORN VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE ACT OF 2006" BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-1083, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO COMMITS A VIOLENT CRIME THAT CAUSES THE DEATH OF, OR INJURY TO, A CHILD IN UTERO IS GUILTY OF A SEPARATE OFFENSE AND THAT THE PERSON MUST BE PUNISHED AS IF THE DEATH OR INJURY OCCURRED TO THE UNBORN CHILD'S MOTHER; TO SPECIFY CERTAIN ELEMENTS THAT ARE NOT REQUIRED TO BE PROVEN; TO PROVIDE THAT THE PERSON MUST BE PUNISHED FOR MURDER OR ATTEMPTED MURDER IF THE PERSON INTENTIONALLY KILLED OR ATTEMPTED TO KILL THE UNBORN CHILD; TO PROHIBIT IMPOSING THE DEATH PENALTY FOR AN OFFENSE PROSECUTED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION; AND TO PROHIBIT THE PROSECUTION OF A PERSON FOR CONDUCT RELATED TO AN ABORTION IF PROPER CONSENT WAS OBTAINED AND TO MEDICAL TREATMENT OF A PREGNANT WOMAN AND OF A WOMAN WITH RESPECT TO HER UNBORN CHILD.

On motion of Senator FORD, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator FORD was added as a co-sponsor of S. 1084.

S. 1113 (Word version) -- Senator Malloy: A SENATE RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE SENATE BANKING AND INSURANCE COMMITTEE TO CONDUCT OVERSIGHT HEARINGS WITH RESPECT TO THE OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AND REPORT TO THE SENATE ITS FINDINGS AND ANY RECOMMENDATIONS RESULTING FROM THESE OVERSIGHT HEARINGS.

On motion of Senator WILLIAMS, with unanimous consent, the names of Senators WILLIAMS, SCOTT, SHEHEEN, CROMER, KNOTTS, CLEARY, SHORT, REESE, ANDERSON, ELLIOTT, FORD, JACKSON and PINCKNEY were added as co-sponsors of S. 1113.

S. 1116 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Lourie and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 10, CHAPTER 3, TITLE 23 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT WITHIN THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION TO INVESTIGATE ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND EXPLOITATION OF VULNERABLE ADULTS AND VULNERABLE ADULT FATALITIES; TO AMEND SECTION 43-35-10, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF TERMS IN THE OMNIBUS ADULT PROTECTION ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF FACILITIES TO INCLUDE RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS OPERATED BY, OR CONTRACTED WITH, THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, THE DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, OR LOCAL DISABILITIES BOARDS AND THE DEFINITION OF "INVESTIGATIVE ENTITY" TO INCLUDE THE SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT IN THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION; TO AMEND SECTION 43-35-15, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND PROCEDURES OF INVESTIGATIVE ENTITIES IN CONNECTION WITH ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND EXPLOITATION OF VULNERABLE ADULTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT SHALL RECEIVE REPORTS OF ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND EXPLOITATION OF VULNERABLE ADULTS IN FACILITIES OPERATED BY, OR CONTRACTED WITH, THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, THE DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, OR LOCAL DISABILITIES BOARDS, TO CLARIFY THE INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN AND THE ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES PROGRAM AT THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF THESE INCIDENTS; TO AMEND SECTION 43-35-20, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL POWERS OF INVESTIGATIVE ENTITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THESE ENTITIES HAVE ACCESS TO FACILITIES AS PERMITTED BY LAW; TO AMEND SECTION 43-35-25, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED TO REPORT ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND EXPLOITATION OF VULNERABLE ADULTS, SO AS TO FURTHER CLARIFY THESE REPORTING RESPONSIBILITIES AND TO REQUIRE INCIDENTS INVOLVING CRIMINAL INTENT TO BE REPORTED TO LAW ENFORCEMENT; TO AMEND

On motion of Senator CLEARY, with unanimous consent, the names of Senators CLEARY and KNOTTS were added as co-sponsors of S. 1116.

The following were introduced:

S. 1130 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING LIEUTENANT ARLIE D. TINSLEY ON HIS RETIREMENT AND COMMENDING HIM FOR HIS YEARS OF TIRELESS DEDICATION.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1131 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 6, CHAPTER 11, TITLE 16 SO AS TO ENACT THE "PROTECTION OF PERSONS AND PROPERTY ACT", TO DEFINE THE TERMS "DWELLING", "GREAT BODILY INJURY", "RESIDENCE", AND "VEHICLE", TO AUTHORIZE THE LAWFUL USE OF DEADLY FORCE AGAINST AN INTRUDER OR ATTACKER IN A PERSON'S DWELLING, RESIDENCE, OR OCCUPIED VEHICLE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS, TO PROVIDE THAT THERE IS NO DUTY TO RETREAT IF THE PERSON IS IN A PLACE WHERE HE HAS A RIGHT TO BE, INCLUDING THE PERSON'S PLACE OF BUSINESS, AND THE USE OF DEADLY FORCE IS NECESSARY TO PREVENT DEATH, GREAT BODILY INJURY, OR THE COMMISSION OF A VIOLENT CRIME, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO LAWFULLY USES DEADLY FORCE IS IMMUNE FROM CRIMINAL PROSECUTION AND CIVIL ACTION AND MAY NOT BE ARRESTED UNLESS PROBABLE CAUSE EXISTS THAT THE DEADLY FORCE USED WAS UNLAWFUL.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1132 (Word version) -- Senators Sheheen and Leventis: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 10 TO CHAPTER 56, TITLE 44 TO ENACT THE "ELECTRONIC WASTE MANAGEMENT ACT" SO AS TO

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 1133 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Bryant, Martin, Malloy, Mescher, Lourie, Gregory and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-3870 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE TO BE EQUIPPED WITH OR FOR THE OPERATOR OF A MOTOR VEHICLE TO EMPLOY A RADAR OR LASER JAMMING DEVICE, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 1134 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR DORCHESTER SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 4 TO TRANSFER THE PROPERTY FORMERLY JENKINS HILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO THE TOWN OF HARLEYVILLE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

S. 1135 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ALLOW PALMETTOPRIDE TO PRESENT A TROPHY TO THE WINNER OF THE ANNUAL CLEMSON UNIVERSITY-UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL GAME.
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Read the first time and, on motion of Senator THOMAS, with unanimous consent, S. 1135 was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

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

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

H. 4619 (Word version) -- Reps. Hosey and Rhoad: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE BLACKVILLE-HILDA HIGH SCHOOL "FIGHTING HAWKS" FOOTBALL TEAM OF BARNWELL COUNTY ON CAPTURING THE 2005 CLASS A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE, AND TO HONOR THE PLAYERS AND THEIR COACHING STAFF, LED BY HEAD COACH DAVID BERRY, ON COMPLETING AN AMAZING UNDEFEATED SEASON.

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

H. 4626 (Word version) -- Rep. Agnew: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND CONGRATULATE THE DUE WEST MASONIC LODGE #100, A CONCURRENT BODY OF THE PRINCE HALL GRAND LODGE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, CHARTERED #100 ON DECEMBER 13, 1905, ON ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY AND WISH THEM MUCH SUCCESS IN ALL THE LODGE'S FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

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

Senator THOMAS from the Committee on Banking and Insurance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 639 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-1-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR INSURANCE PURPOSES, SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERMS "APPEAL", "HEARING", "PUBLIC HEARING", "PROCEEDING", "NOTICE", AND "REGULATION HEARING"; TO AMEND SECTION 38-2-10, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE PENALTIES MAY BE ASSESSED ONLY AFTER A CONTESTED CASE HEARING

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator THOMAS from the Committee on Banking and Insurance submitted a favorable report on:

S. 991 (Word version) -- Senators Ryberg, Land and Moore: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 34-21-40, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SECURING OF FUNDS RECEIVED OR HELD IN TRUST BY A BANK OR TRUST COMPANY, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF SECURITY.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

S. 1012 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell and Ritchie: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-19-70, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PLEDGING, SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON OR JUDICIAL CANDIDATE FROM DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY SEEKING THE PLEDGE OF A MEMBER OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGARDING SCREENING FOR ANY JUDICIAL OFFICE UNTIL THE QUALIFICATIONS OF ALL THE CANDIDATES HAVE BEEN DETERMINED BY THE JUDICIAL MERIT SELECTION COMMISSION AND THE COMMISSION HAS FORMALLY RELEASED ITS REPORT.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator MARTIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a majority favorable with amendment and Senator ANDERSON a minority unfavorable report on:

S. 1028 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Leatherman, Thomas, Hayes, Martin, Short, Alexander, Richardson, Ritchie, Sheheen, Campsen, Williams, Knotts, Courson and Mescher: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 12, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 IN CHAPTER 37, ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT REFORM ACT", SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A "POINT OF SALE" VALUATION OF REAL PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROPERTY TAX AND TO PROVIDE ALTERNATE METHODS WHICH MAY BE USED IN COUNTIES FOR THE VALUATION OF REAL PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF PROPERTY THAT INCLUDE A CURRENT FAIR MARKET VALUE METHOD, A CURRENT FAIR MARKET VALUE METHOD SUBJECT TO ANNUAL LIMITS IN INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF SUCH VALUE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INFLATION, AND A FAIR MARKET VALUE METHOD DETERMINED IN COUNTYWIDE APPRAISALS IMPLEMENTED EVERY FIFTH YEAR; TO AMEND SECTION 4-9-1210, RELATING TO THE INITIATIVE METHOD OF ENACTING COUNTY ORDINANCES, SO AS TO ALLOW THIS PROCESS TO INCLUDE ORDINANCES ENACTING A REAL PROPERTY VALUATION METHOD PERMITTED BY THIS ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 6-1-50, RELATING TO FINANCIAL REPORTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SUBMISSION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS TO THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD, OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS, ECONOMIC RESEARCH SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-251, RELATING TO THE RESIDENTIAL

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

On motion of Senator FORD, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator FORD was added as a co-sponsor of S. 1028.

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

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 AND 58-5-350; SECTIONS 58-5-710 AND 58-5-720, BOTH AS AMENDED; SECTIONS 58-5-730, 58-5-920 AND 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 AND 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,

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator THOMAS from the Committee on Banking and Insurance submitted a favorable report on:

S. 1114 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 34-1-20 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS TO THE STATE BOARD OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THAT ONE MEMBER OF THE BOARD MUST BE A RESTRICTED OR SUPERVISED LENDER RECOMMENDED BY THE INDEPENDENT CONSUMER FINANCE ASSOCIATION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 4513 (Word version) -- Reps. Cobb-Hunter, Ceips, Hinson, Leach and M.A. Pitts: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 166 OF 2005, RELATING TO CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENSES AND THEIR PENALTIES, SO AS TO EXTEND THE TIME PERIOD THAT THE STUDY COMMITTEE ON CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ISSUES CREATED BY THIS ACT IS SCHEDULED TO REPORT ITS RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

S. 1126 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson and Lourie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND MORGAN E. LEE, A SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER AND SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT CHAIR AT E. L. WRIGHT MIDDLE SCHOOL OF RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO, UPON BEING NAMED TEACHER OF THE YEAR FOR 2005-2006 AT E. L. WRIGHT.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

S. 51 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTIONS 59-4-110 AND 59-4-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA TUITION PREPAYMENT PROGRAM MAY NOT ACCEPT NEW PARTICIPANTS, THAT THE PROGRAM SHALL REMAIN IN OPERATION FOR EXISTING PARTICIPANTS, THAT THE STATE SHALL MEET THE OBLIGATIONS TO BENEFICIARIES IF THE TUITION PREPAYMENT PROGRAM FUND CANNOT, AND THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL APPROPRIATE MONIES TO THE FUND TO PAY TUITION AND FEES TO THE INSTITUTION IF THERE IS NOT ENOUGH MONEY IN THE FUND.

Senator MALLOY objected to consideration of the Bill.

S. 1028 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Leatherman, Thomas, Hayes, Martin, Short, Alexander, Richardson, Ritchie, Sheheen, Campsen, Williams, Knotts, Courson, Mescher and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 12, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 25 IN CHAPTER 37, ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT REFORM ACT," SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A "POINT OF SALE" VALUATION OF REAL PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROPERTY TAX AND TO PROVIDE ALTERNATE METHODS WHICH MAY BE USED IN COUNTIES FOR THE VALUATION OF REAL PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF PROPERTY THAT INCLUDE A CURRENT FAIR MARKET VALUE METHOD, A CURRENT FAIR MARKET VALUE METHOD SUBJECT TO ANNUAL LIMITS IN INCREASES IN THE VALUE OF SUCH VALUE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INFLATION, AND A FAIR MARKET VALUE METHOD DETERMINED IN COUNTYWIDE APPRAISALS IMPLEMENTED EVERY FIFTH YEAR; TO AMEND SECTION 4-9-1210, RELATING TO THE INITIATIVE METHOD OF ENACTING COUNTY ORDINANCES, SO AS TO ALLOW THIS PROCESS TO INCLUDE ORDINANCES ENACTING A REAL PROPERTY VALUATION METHOD PERMITTED BY THIS ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 6-1-50, RELATING TO FINANCIAL REPORTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SUBMISSION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS TO THE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD, OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS, ECONOMIC RESEARCH SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-251, RELATING TO THE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO THE ROLLBACK CALCULATIONS REQUIRED AFTER REASSESSMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-43-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CLASSIFICATION OF AND VALUATION OF PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF PROPERTY TAX, SO AS TO CONFORM VALUATION REFERENCES FOR REAL PROPERTY; TO REPEAL SECTION 12-37-223A, RELATING TO THE COUNTY OPTION PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION LIMITING INCREASES IN VALUE DUE TO REASSESSMENT; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS

Senator MARTIN moved to make the Bill a Special Order.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Alexander                 Bryant                    Campsen
Cleary                    Courson                   Cromer
Drummond                  Elliott                   Fair
Gregory                   Grooms                    Hayes
Hutto *                   Knotts                    Land
Leatherman                Lourie                    Malloy
Martin                    McConnell                 McGill
Mescher                   Moore                     O'Dell
Patterson                 Peeler                    Pinckney
Rankin                    Reese                     Richardson
Ritchie                   Ryberg                    Scott
Setzler                   Sheheen                   Short *
Thomas                    Verdin                    Williams

Anderson

*These Senators were not present in the Chamber at the time the vote was taken and the votes were recorded by leave of the Senate, with unanimous consent.

The Bill was made a Special Order.

S. 960 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Leatherman, Thomas, Hayes, Martin, Short, Alexander, Richardson, Ritchie, Sheheen, Campsen, Williams, Ford, O'Dell and Knotts: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN

Senator MARTIN moved to make the Resolution a Special Order.

Senator LEVENTIS objected.

The question then was the motion to make the Resolution a Special Order.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Alexander                 Bryant                    Campsen
Cleary                    Courson                   Cromer
Drummond                  Elliott                   Fair
Gregory                   Grooms                    Hayes
Hutto *                   Knotts                    Land

Leatherman                Lourie                    Malloy
Martin                    McConnell                 McGill
Mescher                   Moore                     O'Dell
Peeler                    Pinckney                  Rankin
Reese                     Richardson                Ritchie
Ryberg                    Scott                     Setzler
Sheheen                   Short *                   Thomas
Verdin                    Williams

Leventis

*These Senators were not present in the Chamber at the time the vote was taken and the votes were recorded by leave of the Senate, with unanimous consent.

The Resolution was made a Special Order.

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. 1026 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman, Leventis, Setzler, Rankin, McGill, Short, Martin, Sheheen, Alexander, Anderson, Bryant, Campsen, Cleary, Courson, Cromer, Drummond, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hawkins, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Knotts, Land, Lourie, Malloy, Matthews, McConnell, Mescher, Moore, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Reese, Richardson, Ritchie, Ryberg, Scott, J. Verne Smith, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE FROM THE GENERAL FUND OF THE STATE TO THE STATE'S GENERAL DEPOSIT ACCOUNT FISCAL YEAR 2004-2005 SURPLUS REVENUES IN THE AMOUNT OF

Senator RICHARDSON asked unanimous consent to take the Joint Resolution up for immediate consideration.
There was no objection.

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

Senators RICHARDSON and GROOMS proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (1026R005.SHR), which was tabled:

Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, page 1, by striking SECTION 2 in its entirety and inserting:

/   SECTION   2.   (A)   There is appropriated from fiscal year 2005-2006 state general fund surplus revenues the sum of two hundred seventy-five million dollars, plus any additional amount of such revenues which may be recognized by the Board of Economic Advisers, for the purpose of accelerating the full restoration of all funds previously transferred and appropriated from any earmarked or restricted accounts in the Statewide Accounting and Reporting System (STARS). The trust accounts and subfunds that are the subject of this appropriation are those identified in Section 7 of Act 156 of 2005.

(B)   There is appropriated from fiscal year 2005-2006 state general fund surplus revenues to the State Department of Education an amount equal to $13,094,604 for school bus operations, to include the purchase of bus parts and fuel for the school bus fleet. Funds appropriated, pursuant to this subsection, not expended before July 1, 2007, must be carried forward into the succeeding fiscal year, and used for the same purposes.

(C)   Any remaining balance of fiscal year 2005-2006 state general fund surplus revenues after the full STARS restoration, and the full appropriation to the State Department of Education described in subsection (B), is appropriated to the State Highway Fund and must be used only for maintenance and repair of secondary roads.

SECTION   3.   (A)   SECTION 1 takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

(B)   SECTION 2 takes effect upon approval by the Governor and the appropriations contained in SECTION 2 are effective as provided in Section 11-11-335 of the 1976 Code./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RICHARDSON explained the amendment.
Senator LEATHERMAN argues contra to the amendment.

Senator LEATHERMAN moved to lay the amendment on the table.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Alexander                 Anderson                  Cleary
Courson                   Cromer                    Drummond
Elliott                   Hayes                     Jackson
Knotts                    Land                      Leatherman
Leventis                  Lourie                    Malloy
Martin                    McConnell                 McGill
Moore                     O'Dell                    Patterson
Pinckney                  Rankin                    Scott
Setzler                   Sheheen                   Short
Williams

Bryant                    Campsen                   Fair
Gregory                   Grooms                    Hawkins
Mescher                   Peeler                    Reese
Richardson                Ritchie                   Ryberg
Thomas                    Verdin

The amendment was laid on the table.

I voted against this amendment to S. 1026 because the Finance Committee had not considered the amendment. The same proposal has been introduced as separate legislation and it should be debated there first, as with any major spending proposal.

I voted in favor of tabling (or against) Amendment No. 1 to S. 1026 because the surplus that proponents of the amendment want to spend has not been fully accumulated. It also has not been considered by the appropriate standing committee, weighing it against other needs, for which the money could be spent. Equally, it is a poor practice to take general revenue funds and spend them on highway projects. Highway projects are funded with user taxes, such as gas tax and fees from the Highway Fund -- not the General Fund -- and several of us over the years have had to fight to get highway money spent on highways instead of on general fund matters. It would be inconsistent and equally bad policy for us now to endorse the use of general funds to be mixed with highway funds. In future years when we have a shortage of general funds, it would then be easier for the General Assembly to reach into the highway funds to spend monies on obligations that should be covered by the General Fund. Also, hundreds of millions of dollars should not be appropriated on so little thought and without any detail as to how this money would be spent.

We voted against the tabling motions on Amendments No. 1 and No. 4 to S. 1026. The amendments in question sought the replenishment of the trust and reserve fund deficits created by years of raiding them during lean budget years. The amounts needed to replenish these funds are not in dispute. During the 2005 Legislative Session, the General Assembly identified the accounts in House Bill 3847 and directed the Comptroller General to certify the amounts therein. Overall, the State's trust and reserve funds are $173,281,718 in deficit.

Had the amendments been adopted, we would have repaid the entire debt and still retained over $100,000,000. The amendments further directed that any money left over flow toward two other inarguable priorities. Following the transfer of $13,000,000 for school buses, the first amendment directed that any remaining money go to the South Carolina Department of Transportation for the repair and maintenance

Amendment No. 4 differed slightly. It sought first the repayment of the trust and reserve funds. Then, it directed the money to roads but through the mechanism of the various County Transportation Committees, or CTCs. This amendment sought to address expressed concerns over the priorities and management of the South Carolina Department of Transportation. For those who worried that SCDOT might squander the money inefficiently or on ineffective projects, the second amendment sent the money to those closest to the problem.

Unfortunately, this too met resistance. Opponents of this approach decried local authorities as unbridled and even doubted their commitment to spend the money on roads. The fact remains, however, that County Transportation Committees operate under very strict guidelines embedded in South Carolina law.

Section 12-28-2740 runs over nearly four full pages of the code and lays out, in excruciating detail, the prerequisites and parameters for the spending decisions of the County Transportation Committees. If this regime needs any further regulation, we would be happy to examine such a proposal.

Unfortunately, this simple proposal to repay South Carolina's debts, buy new school buses for South Carolina's children, and fix South Carolina's roads failed. We hope that the discussion surrounding the priorities for taxpayers' money will continue and that, over time, we will spend that money on things that affect all South Carolinians.

Senators KNOTTS and RYBERG proposed the following Amendment No. 4 (1026R008.JMK), which was tabled:

Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, page 1, by striking SECTION 2 in its entirety and inserting:

/   SECTION   2.   There is appropriated from fiscal year 2005-2006 surplus general fund revenues the sum of two hundred seventy-five million dollars, plus any additional amount of such revenues which may be recognized by the Board of Economic Advisers, for the purpose of accelerating the full restoration of all funds previously transferred and appropriated from any earmarked or restricted accounts in the

SECTION   3.   SECTION 1 takes effect upon approval by the Governor. SECTION 2 takes effect upon approval by the Governor and the appropriations contained in SECTION 2 are effective as provided in Section 11-11-335 of the 1976 Code./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator KNOTTS explained the amendment.

Senator KNOTTS asked unanimous consent to withdraw Amendment No. 4.

Senator RYBERG objected.

Senator RYBERG argued in favor of the adoption of the amendment.

Senator MARTIN spoke on the amendment.

Senator THOMAS spoke on the amendment.

Senator McCONNELL argued contra to the adoption of the amendment.

Senator McCONNELL moved to lay the amendment on the table.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Alexander                 Anderson                  Campsen
Cleary                    Courson                   Cromer
Drummond                  Elliott                   Hayes
Jackson                   Knotts                    Land *
Leatherman                Leventis                  Lourie
Malloy                    Martin                    McConnell

McGill                    Moore                     Patterson
Rankin *                  Scott                     Setzler
Sheheen                   Short                     Williams

Bryant                    Gregory                   Grooms
Hawkins                   Mescher                   Peeler
Richardson                Ryberg                    Thomas
Verdin

*These Senators were not present in the Chamber at the time the vote was taken and the votes were recorded by leave of the Senate, with unanimous consent.

The amendment was laid on the table.

I voted to lay Amendment No. 4 on the table for several reasons. First, the amendment attempted to dump hundreds of millions of dollars of surplus money into the hands of forty-six transportation committees, one in each county, for the purpose of spending the money on roads in each county. The amendment, however, did not restrict these committees as to what they could spend the money on and left this solely at the discretion of each committee. Secondly, it is questionable that these committees could themselves expend this money, since they are set up by law to handle farm-to-market money, known as "C-Funds." These C-Funds that they currently expend are retained by the State and expended based upon their recommendations. It is not good, sound, fiscal policy to appropriate hundreds of millions of dollars in surplus monies to committees who could expend these without restriction, or who may have to pass these monies on to another governmental body in order to lawfully have them expended at all. Even that would be questionable. In my opinion, it is reckless to appropriate taxpayers' hard-earned money in such a fashion simply because of the argument that some want one-time General Fund monies to go for some repaving on primary and secondary roads. The deteriorating condition of the road system must be addressed with user

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

S. 141 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Knotts and Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 15-49-20 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF A PETITIONER SEEKING A NAME CHANGE, TO PROVIDE THAT A PETITIONER REQUESTING A NAME CHANGE MUST SIGN AN AFFIDAVIT STATING HE HAS NEVER BEEN CONVICTED OF A CRIME UNDER A DIFFERENT NAME OTHER THAN THE NAME IN WHICH HE IS MAKING THE REQUEST AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION OF THE SECTION.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator HAYES, 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.

S. 293 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes and Knotts: 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

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator HAYES, 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.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE INTERRUPTED DEBATE.

S. 1031 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, McConnell, Martin, Peeler, Bryant, Mescher, Grooms, Hayes, Ryberg, Richardson, Fair, Leatherman, Alexander, Scott, Gregory, Thomas, Courson, O'Dell, Ritchie, Verdin, Leventis, Ford and Drummond: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 13, ARTICLE I OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO THE TAKING OF PRIVATE PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION OF PUBLIC USE.

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

Senator McCONNELL explained the Resolution.

Senators McCONNELL, MOORE, CAMPSEN, FORD, ELLIOTT and KNOTTS proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (JUD1031.010), which was adopted:

Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by striking the joint resolution in its entirety and inserting therein the following:

PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 13, ARTICLE I OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO THE TAKING OF PRIVATE PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PRIVATE PROPERTY SHALL NOT BE CONDEMNED BY EMINENT DOMAIN FOR ANY PURPOSE OR BENEFIT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE PURPOSE

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

SECTION   1.   It is proposed that Section 13, Article I of the Constitution of this State be amended to read:

"Section 13.   Except as otherwise provided in this Constitution, private property shall not be taken for private use without the consent of the owner, nor for public use without just compensation being first made therefor for the property. Private property shall not be condemned by eminent domain for any purpose or benefit, including, but not limited to, the purpose or benefit of economic development, unless the condemnation is for public use."

SECTION   2.   The proposed amendment in SECTION 1 must be submitted to the qualified electors at the next general election for representatives. Ballots must be provided at the various voting precincts with the following words printed or written on the ballot:

"Must Section 13, Article I of the Constitution of this State be amended so as to provide that private property shall not be condemned by eminent domain for any purpose or benefit, including, but not limited to, the purpose or benefit of economic development, unless the condemnation is for public use?

Those voting in favor of the question shall deposit a ballot with a check or cross mark in the square after the word 'Yes', and those voting against the question shall deposit a ballot with a check or cross mark in the square after the word 'No'."   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator McCONNELL explained the amendment.

At 4:34 P.M., Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.

Senator McCONNELL explained the amendment.

Senator CAMPSEN explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator McCONNELL moved that the text of the Joint Resolution be printed upon the pages of the Journal and the Joint Resolution be ordered to receive a second reading.

S. 1031 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, McConnell, Martin, Peeler, Bryant, Mescher, Grooms, Hayes, Ryberg, Richardson, Fair, Leatherman, Alexander, Scott, Gregory, Thomas, Courson, O'Dell, Ritchie, Verdin, Leventis, Ford and Drummond: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 13, ARTICLE I OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO THE TAKING OF PRIVATE PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION OF PUBLIC USE.

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

SECTION   1.   It is proposed that Section 13, Article I of the Constitution of this State be amended to read:

"Section 13.   Except as otherwise provided in this Constitution, private Private property shall not be taken for private use without the consent of the owner, nor for public use without just compensation being first made therefor for the property. Property condemned by eminent domain must be acquired for a right of public use. A mere public purpose or public benefit, including, but not limited to, the purpose or benefit of economic development, does not constitute the requisite public use for property to be condemned by eminent domain."

SECTION   2.   The proposed amendment in SECTION 1 must be submitted to the qualified electors at the next general election for representatives. Ballots must be provided at the various voting precincts with the following words printed or written on the ballot:

"Must Section 13, Article I of the Constitution of this State be amended so as to specify that in order for private property to be condemned by eminent domain, the property must be acquired for a right of public use and that a mere public purpose or public benefit, including, but not limited to, the purpose or benefit of economic development, does not constitute the requisite public use for property to be condemned by eminent domain?

The question then was the second reading of the Joint Resolution.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bryant
Campsen                   Cleary                    Courson
Cromer                    Drummond *                Elliott
Fair                      Ford                      Gregory
Grooms                    Hawkins                   Hayes
Hutto *                   Jackson *                 Knotts
Land *                    Leatherman                Lourie
Malloy                    Martin                    Matthews *
McConnell                 McGill                    Mescher
Moore                     O'Dell                    Patterson
Peeler                    Pinckney                  Rankin*
Reese                     Richardson                Ritchie
Ryberg                    Scott *                   Setzler
Sheheen                   Short                     Thomas
Verdin                    Williams

*These Senators were not present in the Chamber at the time the vote was taken and the votes were recorded by leave of the Senate, with unanimous consent.

The Joint Resolution was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.

On motion of Senator McGILL, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Fred Browder of Cedar Swamp, S.C.

At 5:10 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.

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