Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The House assembled at 10:00 a.m.
Deliberations were opened with prayer by Rev. Charles E. Seastrunk, Jr., as follows:

Our thought for today is from Joshua 1:9: "Be strong and courageous...for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Let us pray. Mighty God, fill us with the strength we need today. Provide us with love, to give us the necessary word, patience, fortitude, and determination for the particular battles we engage. Fight with us the weapons of the Spirit. Bless our Nation, President, State, Governor, Speaker and all who struggle to do what is right in the midst of the evil surrounding us. Protect our defenders of freedom as they protect us. In the name of our Lord. Amen.

Pursuant to Rule 6.3, the House of Representatives was led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America by the SPEAKER.

After corrections to the Journal of the proceedings of yesterday, the SPEAKER ordered it confirmed.

Rep. CATO moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of former Representative Dill Blackwell of Travelers Rest, which was agreed to.

Rep. HARRISON, from the Committee on Judiciary, submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3116 (Word version) -- Reps. W. D. Smith, Cooper and Mahaffey: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 14 SO AS TO CREATE THE COURT APPOINTMENT DEFERRAL FUND TO BE MAINTAINED BY THE SUPREME COURT IN ACCORDANCE

Rep. HARRISON, from the Committee on Judiciary, submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3287 (Word version) -- Reps. Crawford, Hamilton, Lowe, M. A. Pitts, Scarborough and Shoopman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-17-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING LOBBYISTS AND LOBBYING AND CAMPAIGN PRACTICES, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "FRESHMAN LEGISLATORS" AND TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS" TO INCLUDE A CAUCUS BASED ON A MEMBERSHIP OF FRESHMAN MEMBERS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Rep. HARRISON, from the Committee on Judiciary, submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3115 (Word version) -- Rep. Pinson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 6-11-325 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICT WHICH ONLY PROVIDES SEWAGE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SERVICES TO UTILIZE ANY METHOD OF FINANCING THE CONSTRUCTION OF SEWER LATERAL COLLECTION LINES NOTWITHSTANDING OTHER PROVISIONS OF LAW.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Rep. HARRISON, from the Committee on Judiciary, submitted a favorable report with amendments on:

H. 3267 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Cotty, Delleney and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 14-5-610, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DIVISION OF THE STATE INTO SIXTEEN JUDICIAL CIRCUITS AND ADDITIONAL AT-LARGE JUDGES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF AT-LARGE CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES FROM THIRTEEN TO SIXTEEN; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-1410, AS

Rep. HARRISON, from the Committee on Judiciary, submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3199 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Hagood and Cotty: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "ATM SAFETY ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-380, RELATING TO ENTERING A BANK, DEPOSITORY, OR BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION WITH INTENT TO STEAL, SO AS TO INCLUDE AND CREATE VARIOUS ATM OFFENSES, TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES FOR EACH OFFENSE, TO REQUIRE THE POSTING OF A WARNING SIGN ON ATMS AND SIMILAR DEVICES, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 17-25-45, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LIFE SENTENCES FOR CERTAIN MOST SERIOUS AND SERIOUS OFFENSES, SO AS TO ADD THE ATM OFFENSE TO THE LIST OF SERIOUS OFFENSES.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Rep. LEACH, from the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions, submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3265 (Word version) -- Reps. Sellers, Scott, McLeod, Hart, Rutherford, R. Brown and Govan: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION INVITING THE HONORABLE JAMES E. CLYBURN, MEMBER OF THE UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE SIXTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND NEWLY-ELECTED MAJORITY WHIP OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE 110TH CONGRESS TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT ASSEMBLY ON A DATE AND TIME CONVENIENT FOR REPRESENTATIVE CLYBURN'S SCHEDULE AS DETERMINED BY THE PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE OF THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

S. 290 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Bryant, Verdin, Grooms, Hayes, Malloy, McConnell, Leatherman, Peeler, Courson, McGill, Drummond, Setzler, Fair, Reese, Alexander, Leventis, Sheheen, Ryberg, Pinckney, Jackson, Lourie, Moore, Cromer, Mescher, Ritchie, Martin, Matthews, Gregory, Cleary, Scott, Campsen, Anderson, Ford, Elliott, Hawkins, Hutto, Land, O'Dell, Patterson, Rankin, Richardson, Short, Thomas, Vaughn and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO INVITE THE NATIONAL COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION, THE HONORABLE PAUL A. MORIN, TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION AT 12:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2007.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Rep. LEACH, from the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions, submitted a favorable report on:

S. 351 (Word version) -- Senator Setzler: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEMORATE THE CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA AND TO RECOGNIZE ITS MANY LASTING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Rep. HOWARD, from the Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs, submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3334 (Word version) -- Reps. R. Brown, Scott, Whipper, Breeland, Cobb-Hunter, Hart, Hosey and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-7-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF TERMS USED IN THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF BARBERS, INCLUDING THE DEFINITION FOR "HAIR BRAIDING", SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS TERM INCLUDES THE USE OF HAIR EXTENSIONS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3449 (Word version) -- Rep. Clemmons: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 7-5-10, 7-5-35, AND 7-13-70, ALL AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL OF MEMBERS OF THE COUNTY BOARD OF REGISTRATION AND COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF ELECTION AND THE COMPOSITIONS OF THESE BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE GOVERNOR TO REMOVE A MEMBER OF THESE BOARDS OR COMMISSIONS WHO HAS NOT FULFILLED THE TRAINING REQUIREMENT.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 3450 (Word version) -- Rep. Clemmons: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-75-740, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON NONRENEWAL OF INSURANCE POLICIES, SO AS TO CHANGE FROM THIRTY TO NINETY DAYS THE MINIMUM TIME THAT IS REQUIRED THAT A NONRENEWAL NOTICE MUST BE SENT TO THE INSURED AND THE AGENT OF RECORD BEFORE THE EXPIRATION OR ANNIVERSARY DATE OF THE POLICY.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

H. 3451 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty, Agnew, Anderson, Ballentine, Barfield, Battle, Bingham, Bowen, Bowers, Breeland, R. Brown, Cato, Chalk, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Davenport, Edge, Funderburk, Hagood, Haley, Harrell, Harrison, Harvin, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Hosey, Howard, Jennings, Kennedy, Kirsh, Limehouse, McLeod, Miller, Moss, J. H. Neal, Neilson, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, Rice, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scott, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, Stavrinakis, Talley, Toole, Viers, Weeks, Whipper and Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 6 TO TITLE 30 SO AS TO ENACT "THE UNIFORM REAL PROPERTY RECORDING ACT", PROVIDING FOR THE AUTHORITY OF THE REGISTER OF MESNE CONVEYANCES IN A COUNTY TO RECEIVE AND RECORD DOCUMENTS AND INFORMATION IN ELECTRONIC FORM, SETTING FORTH CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS IN ACCEPTANCE

H. 3452 (Word version) -- Reps. Breeland, Bales, Bannister, Dantzler, Govan, Hosey, Jefferson, Knight, Mack, Miller, J. M. Neal, Rice, F. N. Smith and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 25-11-40, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO COUNTY VETERANS AFFAIRS OFFICERS, SO AS TO EXTEND THEIR TERMS FROM TWO YEARS TO FOUR YEARS.
Referred to Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs

H. 3453 (Word version) -- Reps. Hosey, R. Brown, Jefferson, F. N. Smith and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-925 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A PERSON IS INCARCERATED FOR NONPAYMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT DURING THE TIME THE PERSON IS INCARCERATED AND FOR THREE MONTHS AFTER RELEASE, THE PERSON'S OBLIGATION TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT IS SUSPENDED, ARREARAGES DO NOT ACCRUE, AND EXISTING ARREARAGES ARE HELD IN ABEYANCE.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 3456 (Word version) -- Reps. M. A. Pitts, Pinson and Parks: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 31, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT, BY ADDING CHAPTER 20 ENACTING THE "ABANDONED MANUFACTURED HOME REMOVAL ACT" SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR DEMOLITION AND DISPOSAL OF ABANDONED MANUFACTURED HOMES AND PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE NOTICE AND OTHER PROCEDURES NECESSARY FOR THIS ACT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-49-85, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO UNCOLLECTIBLE REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COUNTY AUDITOR TO WAIVE AND REMOVE FROM THE TAX

H. 3457 (Word version) -- Reps. Mack, Breeland, R. Brown, Hosey, Limehouse and Stavrinakis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 61-4-590, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF PERMITS AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF BEER OR WINE, SO AS TO REQUIRE NOTIFICATION TO THE LICENSEE AND AN INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE BEFORE A LICENSEE'S PERMIT MAY BE REVOKED OR SUSPENDED.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 3463 (Word version) -- Reps. Howard and Rutherford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 2-19-10, 2-19-20, 2-19-25, 2-19-30, 2-19-35, 2-19-70, 2-19-80, 2-19-90, 2-19-100, AND 2-19-110, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, ALL RELATING TO THE JUDICIAL MERIT SELECTION COMMISSION, ALL SO AS TO CHANGE THE COMMISSION'S PROCESS FOR NOMINATING JUDICIAL CANDIDATES FROM THE NOMINATION OF THREE CANDIDATES TO THE RELEASE OF A LIST OF ALL QUALIFIED AND FIT CANDIDATES TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT RACE, GENDER, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AND OTHER DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS BE CONSIDERED BY THE COMMISSION, TO DEFINE THE TERM "IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBER", AND TO PROVIDE FURTHER CONFORMING CHANGES.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

The following was introduced:

H. 3454 (Word version) -- Rep. Neilson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND ORLANDO HUDSON, A NATIVE

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

The following was introduced:

H. 3455 (Word version) -- Reps. Huggins, Agnew, Alexander, Allen, Anderson, Anthony, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bedingfield, Bingham, Bowen, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Brantley, Breeland, G. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Crawford, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Funderburk, Gambrell, Govan, Gullick, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Hart, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Jefferson, Jennings, Kelly, Kennedy, Kirsh, Knight, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, Moss, Mulvaney, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rice, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sellers, Shoopman, Simrill, Skelton, D. C. Smith, F. N. Smith, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, W. D. Smith, Spires, Stavrinakis, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Thompson, Toole, Umphlett, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Williams, Witherspoon and Young: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE IRMO MIDDLE SCHOOL C-TEAM BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR ITS OUTSTANDING SEASON AND FOR CAPTURING THE PALMETTO ATHLETIC CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP, AND TO HONOR THE TEAM'S EXCEPTIONAL PLAYERS, COACHES, AND STAFF.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 3458 (Word version) -- Reps. Anderson, Agnew, Alexander, Allen, Anthony, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bedingfield, Bingham,

The Resolution was adopted.

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

H. 3459 (Word version) -- Reps. Anderson, Agnew, Alexander, Allen, Anthony, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bedingfield, Bingham, Bowen, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Brantley, Breeland, G. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Crawford, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Funderburk, Gambrell, Govan, Gullick, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Hart, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kelly, Kennedy, Kirsh, Knight, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, Moss, Mulvaney, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Owens, Parks, Perry,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the privilege of the floor of the House of Representatives be extended to the Carvers Bay High School football team, coaches, and school officials, at a date and time to be determined by the Speaker, for the purpose of recognizing and commending them on their outstanding season and for capturing the 2006 Class A Division I State Championship title.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 3460 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Agnew, Alexander, Allen, Anderson, Anthony, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bedingfield, Bingham, Bowen, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Brantley, Breeland, G. Brown, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Coleman, Cooper, Cotty, Crawford, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Duncan, Edge, Frye, Funderburk, Gambrell, Govan, Gullick, Hagood, Haley, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Hart, Harvin, Haskins, Hayes, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Jennings, Kelly, Kennedy, Kirsh, Knight, Leach, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, Mahaffey, McLeod, Merrill, Miller, Mitchell, Moody-Lawrence, Moss, Mulvaney, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Ott,

Whereas, devoted to promoting public education in every avocation she undertakes, Sandra M. "Sandy" Smith has committed her entire career to bettering South Carolina public schools; and

Whereas, Sandy Smith faithfully served the South Carolina House of Representatives Education and Public Works Committee since 1995 and prior to her departure was its Research Director; and

Whereas, before coming to the General Assembly, Sandy worked in various capacities in South Carolina and Georgia public schools. Respected and admired by her fellow teachers, Sandy became Assistant Principal of Satchel Ford Elementary School in 1991 and Principal of the school in 1992; and

Whereas, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Masters of Education in Reading from the University of South Carolina and is certified by the State in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and as a Reading Specialist, Elementary Principal, and Supervisor; and

Whereas, in her role as Research Director of the House Education and Public Works Committee, Sandy put her many years of hands-on experience in education to work, assisting House members and leaders with constituent questions and matters relating to education; and

Whereas, this warm and personable lady will be greatly missed in the halls of the Blatt Building and the State House and her excellent advice and counsel will be almost impossible to replace; and

Whereas, the members of the House of Representatives are certain that Sandy Smith will continue to benefit South Carolina public education in her new position as Deputy Superintendent of Policy of the South Carolina Department of Education, and pause to extend heartfelt thanks for the countless ways in which she gave of herself in promotion of this great State, while a member of the staff of the General Assembly. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the House of Representatives of the State of South Carolina, by this resolution, recognize and honor Sandra M. "Sandy" Smith of Columbia for her outstanding contributions to the State of South Carolina as Research Director of the South Carolina House of Representatives Education and Public Works Committee, and wish her all the best in her new endeavors with the State Department of Education.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to Sandy Smith.

The Resolution was adopted.

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

H. 3461 (Word version) -- Rep. Walker: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR TO THE SCHOOL OFFICIALS,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the House of Representatives of the State of South Carolina, by this resolution, extend the privilege of the floor to the school officials, athletes, and coaches of the Landrum High School Girls Volleyball Team at a date and time to be determined by the Speaker, to congratulate them for their impressive win of the 2006 Class A State Championship, and honor them on an exceptional season.

The Resolution was adopted.

The following was introduced:

H. 3462 (Word version) -- Rep. Walker: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE LANDRUM HIGH SCHOOL LADY CARDINALS VOLLEYBALL TEAM ON ITS IMPRESSIVE WIN OF THE 2006 CLASS A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP, AND TO HONOR THE PLAYERS AND THEIR COACH, DENISE RISKE, ON AN EXCEPTIONAL SEASON.

The Resolution was adopted.

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

Agnew                  Alexander              Allen
Anderson               Anthony                Bales
Ballentine             Bannister              Barfield
Battle                 Bedingfield            Bingham
Bowen                  Bowers                 Brady
Branham                Brantley               Breeland
G. Brown               R. Brown               Cato
Ceips                  Chalk                  Chellis

Clemmons               Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Cooper                 Cotty                  Crawford
Dantzler               Davenport              Delleney
Duncan                 Edge                   Frye
Funderburk             Gambrell               Govan
Gullick                Hagood                 Haley
Hamilton               Hardwick               Harrell
Harrison               Hart                   Harvin
Haskins                Hayes                  Herbkersman
Hinson                 Hiott                  Hodges
Hosey                  Huggins                Jefferson
Jennings               Kelly                  Kennedy
Kirsh                  Knight                 Leach
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Loftis
Lowe                   Lucas                  Mack
Mahaffey               McLeod                 Merrill
Miller                 Mitchell               Moss
Mulvaney               J. H. Neal             J. M. Neal
Neilson                Ott                    Owens
Parks                  Perry                  Pinson
E. H. Pitts            M. A. Pitts            Rice
Sandifer               Scarborough            Scott
Sellers                Shoopman               Simrill
Skelton                D. C. Smith            F. N. Smith
G. M. Smith            G. R. Smith            J. R. Smith
Spires                 Stavrinakis            Stewart
Talley                 Taylor                 Thompson
Toole                  Umphlett               Vick
Walker                 Weeks                  Whipper
White                  Whitmire               Williams
Witherspoon            Young

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Wednesday, February 7.

Creighton Coleman                 Leon Howard
Todd Rutherford                   Thad Viers

The SPEAKER granted Rep. J. E. SMITH a leave of absence for the remainder of the year due to military deployment.

The SPEAKER granted Rep. J. M. NEAL a leave of absence for the remainder of the day.

Announcement was made that Dr. Gary Culbertson of Sumter is the Doctor of the Day for the General Assembly.

Rep. SCARBOROUGH presented to the House the James Island Christian School Lady Lions Soccer Team, the 2006 South Carolina Independent School Association Class A-AA Champions, their coaches and other school officials.

Rep. DUNCAN presented to the House the Laurens Academy Crusaders Football Team, the 2006 South Carolina Independent School Association Eight-Man Champions, their coaches and other school officials.

In accordance with House Rule 5.2 below:
"5.2   Every bill before presentation shall have its title endorsed; every report, its title at length; every petition, memorial, or other paper, its prayer or substance; and, in every instance, the name of the member presenting any paper shall be endorsed and the papers shall be presented by the member to the Speaker at the desk. A member may add his name to a bill or resolution or a co-sponsor of a bill or resolution may remove his name at any time prior to the bill or resolution receiving passage on second reading. The member or co-sponsor shall notify the Clerk of the House in writing of his desire to have his name added or removed from the bill or resolution. The Clerk of the House shall print the member's or co-sponsor's written notification in the House Journal. The removal or addition of a name does not apply to a bill or resolution sponsored by a committee."

Bill Number:   H. 3006 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   HAGOOD

Bill Number:   H. 3098 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   BANNISTER

Bill Number:   H. 3267 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   DELLENEY

Bill Number:   H. 3218 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   MACK

Bill Number:   H. 3284 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   G. R. SMITH

Bill Number:   H. 3295 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   WALKER

Bill Number:   H. 3295 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   BOWEN

Bill Number:   H. 3301 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   WALKER

Bill Number:   H. 3301 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   BINGHAM

Bill Number:   H. 3376 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   CEIPS

Bill Number:   H. 3419 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   HART

Bill Number:   H. 3416 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   HART

Bill Number:   H. 3434 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   GULLICK

Bill Number:   H. 3435 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   GULLICK

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   HAGOOD

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   MILLER

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   CHELLIS

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   BALES

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   HODGES

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   CLEMMONS

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   BOWERS

Bill Number:   H. 3301 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   SIMRILL

Bill Number:   H. 3376 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   GAMBRELL

Bill Number:   H. 3447 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   GAMBRELL

Bill Number:   H. 3267 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   MCLEOD

Bill Number:   H. 3301 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   RICE

Bill Number:   H. 3370 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   COTTY

Bill Number:   H. 3371 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   COTTY

Bill Number:   H. 3376 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   COTTY

Bill Number:   H. 3411 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   COTTY

Bill Number:   H. 3301 (Word version)
Date:   ADD:
02/07/07   WHIPPER

The following Bills were taken up, read the third time, and ordered sent to the Senate:

H. 3409 (Word version) -- Reps. Scarborough and Limehouse: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHARLESTON COUNTY AVIATION

H. 3155 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Littlejohn and Mahaffey: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 13-1-1050, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TERMS OF MEMBERS OF THE AERONAUTICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NO COMMISSION MEMBER MAY SERVE MORE THAN TWO CONSECUTIVE TERMS BUT MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO SERVE AGAIN FOUR YEARS AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF HIS TERM.

H. 3290 (Word version) -- Reps. Breeland, R. Brown, Mack, Miller, Scarborough, Stavrinakis and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-140, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO VOTING PRECINCTS IN CHARLESTON COUNTY, SO AS TO REDESIGNATE A MAP NUMBER FOR THE MAP ON WHICH LINES OF THESE PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED AND MAINTAINED BY THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3210 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer and Whitmire: A BILL TO AUTHORIZE THE GOVERNING BODY OF OCONEE COUNTY TO PROVIDE FOR A HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION SUFFICIENT TO EQUAL ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS, INCLUDING THE STATEWIDE HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION AMOUNT, OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF THE DWELLING PLACE OF A PERSON WHO HAS BEEN A RESIDENT OF THIS STATE FOR AT LEAST ONE YEAR AND HAS REACHED THE AGE OF SIXTY-FIVE, A PERSON WHO IS CLASSIFIED AS TOTALLY AND PERMANENTLY DISABLED, OR A PERSON WHO IS LEGALLY BLIND, AND TO MAKE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATEWIDE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION APPLY MUTATIS

Rep. SANDIFER proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\MS\7152SSP07), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting clause and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   Article 3, Chapter 37, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-37-253.   (A)   The governing body of a county may, by ordinance, adopt a homestead property tax exemption sufficient to equal one hundred thousand dollars, including the exemption amount allowed pursuant to Section 12-37-250 of the 1976 Code, of the fair market value of the dwelling place of a person who:

(1)   has been a resident of the State for at least one year and has reached the age of sixty-five years on or before December thirty-first;

(2)   is classified as totally and permanently disabled by a state or federal agency having the function of classifying persons; or

(3)   is legally blind as defined in Section 43-25-20 of the 1976 Code.

(B)   The exemption allowed in subsection (A) is equal to one hundred thousand dollars less the exemption amount allowed pursuant to Section 12-37-250 of the 1976 Code and applies for the same taxes as the exemption allowed pursuant to Section 12-37-250. The governing body of a county shall not provide a homestead property tax exemption that exceeds a total of one hundred thousand dollars of the fair market value of a person's dwelling place when adding the exemption allowed pursuant to Section 12-37-250.

(C)   If a governing body adopts a property tax exemption pursuant to this act, all requirements applicable to property receiving the exemption allowed pursuant to Section 12-37-250 of the 1976 Code apply for the exemption allowed pursuant to this act. The exemption first applies in the property tax year beginning after the enactment of the ordinance."
SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

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

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

H. 3446 (Word version) -- Rep. Jennings: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 256 OF 1981, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF MARLBORO COUNTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE MEMBERS ARE ELECTED FROM ELECTION DISTRICTS CORRESPONDING TO THE EIGHT SINGLE-MEMBER ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF MARLBORO COUNTY ARE ELECTED.

The following Bill was taken up:

S. 277 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 57-23-830 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MAY MOW BEYOND THIRTY FEET FROM THE PAVEMENT ROADSIDE VEGETATION ADJACENT TO THE PORTION OF INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 385 IN LAURENS COUNTY BETWEEN MILE MARKERS 7 AND 11.

Rep. TAYLOR moved to commit the Bill to the Laurens Delegation, which was agreed to.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3097 (Word version) -- Reps. Rice, Walker, G. R. Smith, Shoopman, Cobb-Hunter, Mahaffey, Cotty, Owens and D. C. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 16 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM, PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM, PROVIDE FOR COURSES OFFERED FOR CERTAIN CREDIT, PROVIDE FOR THE VIRTUAL SCHOOL

Rep. SCOTT made the Point of Order that the Bill was improperly before the House for consideration since its number and title have not been printed in the House Calendar at least one statewide legislative day prior to second reading.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.

The following Bill was taken up:

H. 3162 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Cotty, Bales and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-26-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA TEACHER LOAN PROGRAM POLICY BOARD OF GOVERNANCE AND PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP AND DUTIES.

Rep. MULVANEY made the Point of Order that the Bill was improperly before the House for consideration since its number and title have not been printed in the House Calendar at least one statewide legislative day prior to second reading.
The SPEAKER sustained the Point of Order.

The following Joint Resolution was taken up:

H. 3447 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Harrell, Scarborough, Hagood, Miller, Chellis, Bales, Hodges, Clemmons, Bowers and Gambrell: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A STUDY COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE THE PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE CRISIS FACING OWNERS OF REAL PROPERTY SITUATED IN COUNTIES BORDERING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, DUTIES, AND FUNCTIONS OF THE COMMITTEE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMITTEE SHALL SUBMIT ITS REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS BY APRIL 1, 2007.

Rep. CATO explained the Joint Resolution.

Further proceedings were interrupted by expiration of time on the uncontested Calendar, the pending question being consideration of the Joint Resolution, Rep. CATO having the floor.

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

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

H. 3464 (Word version) -- Reps. M. A. Pitts, Hardwick, Mulvaney, Loftis, Chellis, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Hiott, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Mitchell, Owens, Parks, Rice, J. R. Smith and Umphlett: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 31, TITLE 23, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA FIREARMS FREEDOM ACT" WHICH EXEMPTS FROM REGULATION UNDER THE COMMERCE CLAUSE OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION A FIREARM, FIREARM ACCESSORY, OR AMMUNITION MANUFACTURED AND RETAINED IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

H. 3466 (Word version) -- Reps. Umphlett, Hinson, E. H. Pitts, Haley, Ballentine, Huggins, Vick, Agnew, Anderson, Battle, Bingham, R. Brown, Cato, Ceips, Chellis, Cobb-Hunter, Dantzler, Duncan, Funderburk, Hagood, Harvin, Herbkersman, Jefferson, Jennings, Knight, Limehouse, Lowe, Mahaffey, Merrill, Miller, Ott, Owens, Parks, Pinson, M. A. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Sellers, Simrill, Spires, Stavrinakis, Taylor, White, Whitmire and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 49, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO WATER, WATER RESOURCES, AND DRAINAGE, BY ADDING CHAPTER 30 SO AS TO ENACT THE "PUBLIC WATERS NUISANCE ABATEMENT ACT" WHICH PERMITS THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES TO REMOVE OR REQUIRE THE REMOVAL OF CERTAIN STRUCTURES FROM THE PUBLIC WATERS OF THIS STATE UNDER SPECIFIED CONDITIONS, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION, TO PROVIDE FOR AUTHORITY OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND A MUNICIPALITY OR COUNTY TO DECLARE THESE STRUCTURES NUISANCES AND REQUIRE THEIR REMOVAL, AND TO PROVIDE, FURTHER, FOR A CIVIL ACTION BY A PRIVATE CITIZEN.
Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs

H. 3468 (Word version) -- Reps. Perry, Cotty, Ballentine, F. N. Smith, Duncan, D. C. Smith, Haskins, Brantley, Crawford, Frye, Hagood, Harvin, Herbkersman, Hosey, Leach, Mahaffey, Miller, Moss, J. M. Neal and Stewart: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-280 SO AS TO REQUIRE INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR TREATMENT OF PERVASIVE DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS AND TO DEFINE "PERVASIVE DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER" AS A NEUROLOGICAL CONDITION, INCLUDING AUTISM AND ASPERGER'S SYNDROME.
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

H. 3469 (Word version) -- Reps. M. A. Pitts, Parks and Pinson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-22-280, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS FROM REGULATION OF LAND SURVEYORS, SO AS TO ALLOW A LAND SURVEYOR TO PREPARE A PLAT OF PROPERTY FOR AN AGENCY OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE FEDERAL REGULATIONS, TO PERMIT THE EXCEPTION WHERE A PLAT DOES NOT MEET THE MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR A LAND SURVEY IN THIS STATE, TO RESTRICT THE USE OF A PLAT PREPARED UNDER THIS SUBSECTION TO AN AGENCY OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT; AND TO PROVIDE A DISCLAIMER REQUIREMENT FOR A PLAT PREPARED PURSUANT TO THIS ACT.
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Debate was resumed on the following Joint Resolution, the pending question being the consideration of the Joint Resolution, Rep. CATO having the floor:

H. 3447 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Harrell, Scarborough, Hagood, Miller, Chellis, Bales, Hodges, Clemmons, Bowers and Gambrell: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A STUDY COMMITTEE TO EXAMINE THE PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE CRISIS FACING OWNERS OF REAL PROPERTY SITUATED IN COUNTIES BORDERING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, DUTIES, AND FUNCTIONS OF THE COMMITTEE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMITTEE SHALL SUBMIT ITS REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS BY APRIL 1, 2007.

Reps. CATO and SCOTT proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (Doc Name COUNCIL\BBM\9758HTC07), which was adopted:
Amend the joint resolution, as and if amended, by striking SECTIONS 1-3 and inserting:
/ SECTION   1.   The General Assembly finds that:

(1)   the spiraling costs and increasing unavailability of homeowners and commercial insurance to owners of property in South Carolina are reaching a critical mass;

(2)   homeowners and commercial insurance on property situated in this State has become increasingly difficult to obtain due to spiraling rates, decreasing availability, policy cancellations, wind pool limitations, and restrictions by companies to underwrite this type of insurance under any circumstances;

(3)   swift action is required to ensure reasonably priced homeowners and commercial insurance is available for property in South Carolina.
SECTION   2.   (A)   A committee to study and examine the property and casualty insurance crisis facing owners of real property situated in South Carolina is hereby created. The committee after its study and examination shall render a report together with its recommendations to bring immediate relief to insureds in these areas and bring stability to this component of the insurance market.

(B)   The committee shall consist of five members as follows:

(1)   one member of the House of Representatives appointed by the Chairman of the House Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee;

(2)   one member of the Senate appointed by the Chairman of the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee;

(3)   three members appointed by the Governor, one of whom shall represent the property and casualty insurance industry, one of whom shall represent consumers of property and casualty insurance, and one of whom shall be a member of the general public at large.

(C)   The Director of the Department of Insurance shall be the sixth member of the committee to serve as an ex officio nonvoting member and shall act as chairman.

(D)   Appointed members shall serve a term to expire when the committee is dissolved pursuant to Section 7. Vacancies on the committee must be filled in the manner of original appointment. Committee membership does not constitute an office for purposes of the prohibition on dual office holding provided in Section 3, Article VI of the Constitution of this State. Notwithstanding Section 8-13-770 of the 1976 Code, members of the General Assembly may be appointed to serve on this committee as provided in this joint resolution.
SECTION   3.   (A)   The committee shall make a detailed study of the property and casualty insurance crisis facing the owners of property in South Carolina. In addition, as stated in Section 2(A) above, the committee after its study and examination shall render a report together with its recommendations to bring immediate relief to insureds and bring stability to this component of the insurance market.

(B)   The committee shall meet within ten days after the effective date of this joint resolution upon call of the chairman for the purpose of organizing and thereafter among other meetings shall conduct three public meetings before submitting its report and recommendations./
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

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

Rep. CATO explained the Joint Resolution.

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

At 12:00 noon the Senate appeared in the Hall of the House. The President of the Senate called the Joint Assembly to order and announced that it had convened under the terms of a Concurrent Resolution adopted by both Houses.

The Reading Clerk of the House read the following Concurrent Resolution:

H. 3213 (Word version) -- Reps. Delleney, W.D. Smith and F.N. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX 12:00 NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2007, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES JUNE 30, 2007; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A

The PRESIDENT recognized Senator Ritchie, Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Court of Appeals Judge, Seat 3.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable John W. Kittredge had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable John W. Kittredge was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Court of Appeals Judge, Seat 4.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable John C. Hayes III, the

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Circuit Court Judge, Fifth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable J. Ernest Kinard, Jr., had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable J. Ernest Kinard, Jr., was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Circuit Court Judge, Seventh Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable J. Derham Cole had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable J. Derham Cole was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Circuit Court Judge, Ninth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Deadra L. Jefferson had been screened, found qualified, and placed her name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Deadra L. Jefferson was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Circuit Court Judge, Tenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable J. C. Nicholson, Jr., had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable J. C. Nicholson, Jr., was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, First Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Anne Gue Jones had been screened, found qualified, and placed her name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Anne Gue Jones was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Second Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Dale Moore Gable had been screened, found qualified, and placed her name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Dale Moore Gable was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Third Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable W. Jeffrey Young had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable W. Jeffrey Young was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Third Judicial Circuit, Seat 3.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Gordon B. Jenkinson had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Gordon B. Jenkinson was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Fourth Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Jamie Lee Murdock, Jr., had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Jamie Lee Murdock, Jr., was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Fifth Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Leslie K. Riddle and Lillie C. Hart had been screened and found qualified.
Senator Ritchie stated that Lillie C. Hart had withdrawn from the race, and placed the name of the remaining candidate, the Honorable Leslie K. Riddle, in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Leslie K. Riddle was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Fifth Judicial Circuit, Seat 3.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Rolly W. Jacobs had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Rolly W. Jacobs was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Sixth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Brian M. Gibbons had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Brian M. Gibbons was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Seventh Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Georgia V. Anderson had been screened, found qualified, and placed her name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Georgia V. Anderson was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Seventh Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable James F. Fraley, Jr., had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable James F. Fraley, Jr., was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Eighth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Joseph W. McGowan III had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Joseph W. McGowan III was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Eighth Judicial Circuit, Seat 3.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Billy A. Tunstall, Jr., had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Billy A. Tunstall, Jr., was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Ninth Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Paul W. Garfinkel had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Paul W. Garfinkel was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Ninth Judicial Circuit, Seat 4.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Wayne M. Creech had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Wayne M. Creech was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Tenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Barry W. Knobel had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Barry W. Knobel was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Tenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 3.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Tommy B. Edwards had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Tommy B. Edwards was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Eleventh Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that Deborah Neese and Robert E. Newton had been screened and found qualified.
Senator Ritchie, stated that Robert E. Newton had withdrawn from the race, and placed the name of the remaining candidate, Deborah Neese, in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Deborah Neese was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Eleventh Judicial Circuit, Seat 3.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Richard W. Chewning III had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Richard W. Chewning III was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Twelfth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Mary E. Buchan had been screened, found qualified, and placed her name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Mary E. Buchan was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Twelfth Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable A. Eugene Morehead III had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable A. Eugene Morehead III was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable R. Kinard Johnson, Jr., had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable R. Kinard Johnson, Jr., was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Fourteenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Gerald C. Smoak, Jr., had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Gerald C. Smoak, Jr., was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Fourteenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 3.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Robert S. Armstrong had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Robert S. Armstrong was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that Joe M. Crosby, Charles Reuben Goude, and Jan B. Holmes had been screened and found qualified.
Senator Ritchie stated that Joe M. Crosby and Charles Reuben Goude had withdrawn from the race and placed the name of the remaining candidate, Jan B. Holmes, in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Jan B. Holmes was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for a Family Court Judge, Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable Henry T. Woods had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable Henry T. Woods was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for an Administrative Law Court Judge, Seat 2.
Senator Ritchie, on behalf of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, stated that the Honorable John D. McLeod had been screened, found qualified, and placed his name in nomination.
On motion of Senator Ritchie, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.
Whereupon, the Honorable John D. McLeod was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

The purposes of the Joint Assembly having been accomplished, the PRESIDENT announced that under the terms of the Concurrent Resolution the Joint Assembly would recede from business.
The Senate accordingly retired to its Chamber.

At 12:30 p.m. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.

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

At 12:31 p.m. the House, in accordance with the motion of Rep. CATO, adjourned in memory of former Representative Dill Blackwell of Travelers Rest, to meet at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.

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