Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 12:00 Noon, the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT Pro Tempore.

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

In Chapter 12 of the book of Daniel we read:

"Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever."
(Daniel 12:3)

Bow in prayer with me, please:

Gracious and Loving Lord, we give You thanksgiving and praise for all of our wise and caring leaders in this land-those from centuries past, those guiding us today-those serving at national, state and local levels-those gifted women and men who passionately encourage and direct us along our way. Especially do we give thanks for all of our committed and dedicated Senators here in this Chamber and for their talented staff members. We remind them all of the expectations held by those they serve here in this State--including our children and youth. For the benefit of all of our citizens, empower these leaders, O God. Allow them the full benefit of Your grace and mercy, now and always. We pray this in Your loving name, dear Lord.
Amen.

The PRESIDENT Pro Tempore 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, Board of Trustees of the Children's Trust Fund of South Carolina, with term to commence June 30, 2004, and to expire June 30, 2008

5th Congressional District:

Amy L. Puchalski, 3 Puddle Lane, Camden, S.C. 29020 VICE J. Ann Lynch

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ethics Commission, with term to commence June 30, 2006, and to expire June 30, 2011

At-Large:

Phillip Florence, Jr., 1201 Main St., 12th Floor, Columbia, S.C. 29201 VICE Kenneth Krawcheck

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

Reappointment, South Carolina Board of Juvenile Parole, with term to commence June 30, 2007, and to expire June 30, 2011

At-Large:

Margaret E. Mackinem, 232 Rose Creek Lane, Columbia, S.C. 29229

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

Initial Appointment, Advisory Panel for Massage/Bodywork, with term to commence June 30, 2005, and to expire June 30, 2009

Therapist:

Charles V. Stricklin, Sr., 330 Cabrill Drive, Charleston, S.C. 29414 VICE April D. O'Shields

Referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

Reappointment, South Carolina Advisory Council on Aging, with term to commence June 30, 2007, and to expire June 30, 2011

At-Large:

Jean R. Bridges, 1101 Saluda Chase, West Columbia, S.C. 29169

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Panel for Dietetics, with term to commence May 30, 2007, and to expire May 30, 2009

Clinical - SCDA:

Rona B. Wharton, 2007 Madden Lane, Florence, S.C. 29501

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Reappointment, South Carolina Mental Health Commission, with term to commence March 21, 2007, and to expire March 21, 2012

2nd Congressional District:

James Buxton Terry, 16 Quinine Hill, Columbia, S.C. 29204

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Reappointment, South Carolina Mental Health Commission, with term to commence March 21, 2007, and to expire March 21, 2012

4th Congressional District:

H. Lloyd Howard, Howard Law Firm, P. O. Box 578, Landrum, S.C. 29356

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Initial Appointment, State Board of Pharmacy, with term coterminous with Governor

Public:

Charles L. Appleby, Jr., 2100 Twin Church Road - Unit 91, Florence, S.C. 29501 VICE Leo Richardson

Referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

Senator SETZLER introduced Dr. Gregory Squires of Charleston, S.C., Doctor of the Day. His daughter, Grayson, accompanied Dr. Squires.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Senate agreed that, when the Senate adjourns today, it stand adjourned to convene tomorrow at 11:45 A.M., for the sole purpose of conducting the prayer, Pledge of Allegiance and attending the Joint Assembly at Noon; and, upon the conclusion of the Joint Assembly, the Senate would stand in recess until 2:30 P.M.

The following were introduced:

S. 775 (Word version) -- Senator Scott: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS HEALTHCARE ACCESS STUDY

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

S. 776 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Cleary, Ritchie, McConnell and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION IDENTITY FRAUD AND FRAUD PREVENTION ACT", BY ADDING CHAPTER 29 TO TITLE 8, RELATING TO THE VERIFICATION OF A PERSON'S LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT EVERY AGENCY OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE VERIFY THE LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES OF ANY NATURAL PERSON EIGHTEEN OR OLDER WHO HAS APPLIED FOR STATE OR LOCAL PUBLIC BENEFITS, AS DEFINED BY FEDERAL LAW, THAT ARE ADMINISTERED BY AN AGENCY OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE, TO REQUIRE ENFORCEMENT OF THIS PROVISION WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, RELIGION, GENDER, ETHNICITY, OR NATIONAL ORIGIN, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS FOR VERIFICATION OF A PERSON'S LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES, TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR A PERSON TO VERIFY HIS LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES, INCLUDING EXECUTING AN AFFIDAVIT THAT THE PERSON IS A UNITED STATES CITIZEN OR LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENT OR A QUALIFIED ALIEN OR NONIMMIGRANT UNDER THE IMMIGRATION AND NATURALIZATION ACT, TO REQUIRE THAT ELIGIBILITY FOR BENEFITS SHALL BE MADE THROUGH THE FEDERAL SYSTEMATIC ALIEN VERIFICATION OF ENTITLEMENT PROGRAM MAINTAINED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, TO MAKE IT A FELONY IF A PERSON KNOWINGLY AND WILLFULLY MAKES A FALSE, FICTITIOUS, OR FRAUDULENT STATEMENT OR

Senator CAMPSEN spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 777 (Word version) -- Senator Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-39-220, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ASSESSMENT OF REAL PROPERTY THAT WAS OMITTED FROM THE DUPLICATE, SO AS TO LIMIT THE TIME A COUNTY AUDITOR IS ALLOWED TO CHARGE A PROPERTY OWNER WHO HAS NOT PAID THE PROPERTY TAXES DUE TO THE PRECEDING THREE YEARS FROM THE TIME THE OMISSION WAS DISCOVERED.
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Senator KNOTTS spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 778 (Word version) -- Senator Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-53-40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SURETY QUALIFICATIONS, SO AS TO DELETE THE LANGUAGE REGARDING AN INSURER REPRESENTED BY A SURETY BONDSMAN; TO AMEND SECTION 38-53-50, RELATING TO A SURETY'S RELIEF FROM BOND, SURRENDER OF A DEFENDANT, AND THE FILING OF A NEW UNDERTAKING, SO AS TO DELETE THAT A SURETY MAY BE RELIEVED FOR NONPAYMENT OF FEES AND TO CREATE A TEN-DOLLAR FILING FEE WHEN RELIEF FROM BOND IS SOUGHT BY A SURETY; TO AMEND SECTION 38-53-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ISSUANCE OF A BENCH WARRANT FOR FAILURE TO APPEAR, SO AS TO REQUIRE NOTIFICATION OF THE SURETY WITHIN A CERTAIN TIMEFRAME OF THE ISSUANCE OF THE BENCH WARRANT AND TO INCREASE THE TIME PERIOD AFTER WHICH BOND IS FORFEITED FROM THIRTY DAYS TO NINETY DAYS AFTER THE ISSUANCE OF THE BENCH WARRANT; TO AMEND SECTION 38-53-85, RELATING TO EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF A PROFESSIONAL BONDSMAN, SURETY BONDSMAN, AND RUNNERS, SO AS TO DELETE AN OBSOLETE REFERENCE; TO AMEND SECTION 38-53-170, RELATING TO PROHIBITIONS REGARDING A PROFESSIONAL BONDSMAN, SURETY BONDSMAN, OR RUNNER, SO AS TO REPLACE THE TERM "PRINCIPAL" WITH THE TERM

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

S. 779 (Word version) -- Senator Lourie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE SPRING VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER TEAM ON ITS IMPRESSIVE WIN OF THE 2007 CLASS AAAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE, AND TO HONOR THE PLAYERS, HEAD COACH, DAVE CLARK, AND ASSISTANT COACH, JOHN POWELL, ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 780 (Word version) -- Senator Lourie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE A.C. FLORA HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL TEAM FOR ITS OUTSTANDING SEASON AND FOR CAPTURING THE 2007 CLASS AAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE, AND TO HONOR THE TEAM'S EXCEPTIONAL PLAYERS, COACH, AND STAFF.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 781 (Word version) -- Senator Lourie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE A.C. FLORA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF TEAM FOR CAPTURING THE 2007 CLASS AAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE, AND TO HONOR THE TEAM'S SUPERLATIVE PLAYERS, COACH, AND STAFF.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

H. 3008 (Word version) -- Reps. Ballentine, Haskins, Cotty and Lowe: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT REAL PROPERTY OWNED

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

H. 3143 (Word version) -- Reps. Kirsh, Haskins, E. H. Pitts, Mulvaney, Gullick, Hayes, Huggins, M. A. Pitts, Miller, Bowen, Limehouse, G. Brown, Toole and Mahaffey: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM SALES TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXEMPTION FOR HOSPITAL BEDS, WALKERS, AND WHEELCHAIRS SOLD OR RENTED TO AN INDIVIDUAL UNDER THE WRITTEN PRESCRIPTION OF A HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL.

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

H. 3390 (Word version) -- Reps. Merrill, Herbkersman, Funderburk, Mulvaney and Mahaffey: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3588 SO AS TO ALLOW A STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT EQUAL TO TWENTY PERCENT OF THE QUALIFIED EXPENDITURES OF PHOTOVOLTAIC, SOLAR, AND FUEL CELL PROPERTY CREDITS ALLOWED AGAINST A TAXPAYER'S FEDERAL INCOME TAX LIABILITY.

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

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,

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

H. 3496 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Harrison, Cotty, Shoopman, Duncan, Davenport, Leach, Haley, Huggins, McLeod, G. R. Smith, F. N. Smith, Allen, Bales, Ballentine, Barfield, Bingham, Bowen, Brady, Cato, Ceips, Chalk, Chellis, Clemmons, Cooper, Crawford, Edge, Frye, Funderburk, Gambrell, Govan, Gullick, Hagood, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harvin, Haskins, Herbkersman, Hinson, Hiott, Jefferson, Kirsh, Knight, Littlejohn, Loftis, Lucas, Merrill, Moss, Neilson, Ott, Parks, Pinson, E. H. Pitts, M. A. Pitts, Rice, Sandifer, Scarborough, Scott, Simrill, Skelton, D. C. Smith, J. R. Smith, Spires, Stewart, Talley, Taylor, Toole, Umphlett, Vick, Viers, Walker, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Witherspoon and Young: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITION OF TERMS WITH REGARD TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF THE TERMS "OPERATOR", "MOTOR VEHICLE", AND "DRIVER"; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-286, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE SUSPENSION OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE OR PERMIT, OR THE DENIAL OF THE ISSUANCE OF A LICENSE OR A PERMIT TO A PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE WHO HAS OPERATED A MOTOR VEHICLE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE THE TERM "OPERATES" FOR THE TERM "DRIVES", THE TERM "REASONABLE SUSPICION" FOR THE TERM "PROBABLE CAUSE TO BELIEVE", AND THE TERM "INFORMED" FOR THE TERM "NOTIFIED IN WRITING", TO

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

H. 3528 (Word version) -- Reps. M. A. Pitts, Stewart, G. M. Smith, Merrill, Bedingfield, Perry, Davenport, Bingham, Brantley, Chellis, Delleney, Hinson, Jefferson, Knight, Lowe, Mulvaney, J. M. Neal, Ott, Owens, Stavrinakis, Toole, Vick, White, Williams, Young, Mahaffey and Umphlett: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 23-31-215, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF CONCEALABLE WEAPONS PERMITS, SO AS TO RESTRICT THE CIRCUMSTANCES UPON WHICH THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION MAY RELEASE ITS LIST OF PERMIT HOLDERS.

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

H. 3649 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon, Merrill, Agnew, Anthony, Brady, R. Brown, Duncan, Funderburk, Hagood, Hardwick, Herbkersman, Hiott, Kelly, Loftis, Moss, Ott, E. H. Pitts, Scott, Talley, Toole, Umphlett, Cobb-Hunter, Leach, Cato, Clemmons, Barfield, Ceips, Dantzler, Hamilton, Howard, Jefferson, Lowe, Phillips, G. R. Smith, J. R. Smith, Stavrinakis, Bannister, J. H. Neal, Stewart, Sellers, Mitchell, Williams, G. M. Smith and Mahaffey: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 63 TO TITLE 12 SO AS TO ENACT THE "ENERGY FREEDOM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT ACT" TO ALLOW A SALES TAX REBATE FOR THE PURCHASE OF CERTAIN FUEL EFFICIENT VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT USED TO CONVERT A HYBRID VEHICLE INTO A HYBRID PLUG-IN VEHICLE, TO ALLOW AN INCENTIVE PAYMENT FOR ALTERNATIVE FUEL PURCHASES, AND TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA RENEWABLE ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3376 SO AS TO ALLOW AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR THE PURCHASE OR LEASE OF A PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLE; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3630 SO AS TO ALLOW AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR QUALIFIED EXPENDITURES FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF

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

H. 3666 (Word version) -- Reps. Clyburn, Loftis, J. H. Neal, Bales, G. M. Smith, Harvin, Jennings, Ott, Sellers, Funderburk, Branham, R. Brown, Frye, Spires, Agnew, Alexander, Anthony, Battle, Bowers, Brady, Brantley, Breeland, Ceips, Cobb-Hunter, Delleney, Duncan, Gambrell, Hardwick, Harrison, Hart, Hayes, Hodges, Hosey, Huggins, Jefferson, Knight, Lowe, Lucas, McLeod, Miller, Moss, J. M. Neal, E. H. Pitts, Rice, Sandifer, Simrill, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Thompson, Vick, Weeks, Williams and Scott: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 11, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 50 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE ACT", TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE AUTHORITY, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS GOVERNANCE, POWERS, AND DUTIES; TO AUTHORIZE THE AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE LOANS AND

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

H. 3858 (Word version) -- Reps. Ceips and Clemmons: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-190, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CONDUCTING SPECIAL ELECTIONS TO FILL VACANCIES IN OFFICE, SO AS TO SPECIFY THAT IF THERE IS A VACANCY REQUIRING A PRIMARY ELECTION TO FILL THE VACANCY, THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION APPLY.

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

H. 3890 (Word version) -- Reps. Harvin and Kirsh: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 57-23-825 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE TOWN OF SUMMERTON MAY MOW BEYOND THIRTY FEET FROM THE PAVEMENT ROADSIDE VEGETATION ADJACENT TO THE INTERCHANGES OF INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 95 AND S14-102 (EXIT 108) IN CLARENDON COUNTY.

Read the first time and, on motion of Senator GROOMS, with unanimous consent, H. 3890 was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

On motion of Senator LAND, with unanimous consent, H. 3890 was ordered to receive a second and third reading on the next two consecutive legislative days.

H. 4105 (Word version) -- Reps. W. D. Smith, Davenport, Kelly, Littlejohn, Talley and Walker: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADVISORY REFERENDUM TO BE CONDUCTED AT THE SAME TIME AS THE NEXT PARTY PRIMARIES TO DETERMINE IF THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF SPARTANBURG COUNTY

Read the first time and referred to the Spartanburg County Delegation.

H. 4123 (Word version) -- Rep. Spires: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR THE PELION PEANUT FESTIVAL IN LEXINGTON COUNTY, AUGUST 9-11, 2007, AND RECOGNIZE THE FESTIVAL'S CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE TOWN, COUNTY, AND STATE.

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

H. 4126 (Word version) -- Rep. Huggins: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR DR. MARY TUCK KENNERLY, OF RICHLAND COUNTY, FOR TWENTY-THREE YEARS OF SERVICE AS PRINCIPAL OF NURSERY ROAD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL UPON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT, AND TO EXTEND BEST WISHES FOR MUCH SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

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

H. 4127 (Word version) -- Reps. Jennings, 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, 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 CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR DR.

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

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

S. 462 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman, Alexander, Verdin and Short: A BILL TO RETITLE ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 11, TITLE 1, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EMPLOYEES AND RETIREMENT INSURANCE AS "EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES INSURANCE-ACCOUNTING FOR POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS", TO MAKE FINDINGS WITH RESPECT TO THE STATE'S COMPLIANCE WITH NEW REQUIREMENTS OF THE GOVERNMENTAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD FOR POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS; BY ADDING SECTIONS 1-11-703, 1-11-705, AND 1-11-707 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA RETIREE HEALTH INSURANCE TRUST FUND (SCRHI TRUST FUND) AND THE SOUTH CAROLINA LONG TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE TRUST FUND AS THE METHOD OF PAYING AND ACCOUNTING FOR RETIREE HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUMS AND BASIC LONG TERM DISABILITY INCOME BENEFIT PLAN PREMIUMS IN COMPLIANCE WITH NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE ACTUARIAL FUNDING AND INVESTMENT OF THE ASSETS OF THESE TRUST FUNDS, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 1-11-710, RELATING TO THE STATE HEALTH AND DENTAL PLANS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR THE SCRHI TRUST FUND BY MEANS OF INCREASED EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION RATES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 1-11-730, RELATING TO PERSONS ELIGIBLE FOR POST-EMPLOYMENT PARTICIPATION IN THE STATE HEALTH AND DENTAL PLANS AND ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYER PAID PREMIUMS FOR RETIREES, SO AS TO CONFORM THE PAYMENT OF EMPLOYER PREMIUMS FOR RETIREES TO THE

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 3795 (Word version) -- Reps. Govan, Hosey, Sellers, Howard and J.H. Neal: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMISSION OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION TO ASSIST AND ENHANCE THE DEPARTMENT'S EFFORTS TO PRESERVE AND PROMOTE HISTORIC PROPERTIES REFLECTING THE STATE'S AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE; AND TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT TO PROVIDE STAFF ASSISTANCE AND FUNDING FOR THE COMMISSION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

(R41, S348 (Word version)) -- Senators Hutto and Land: AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 50, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO FISH, GAME, AND WATERCRAFT, SO AS TO ENACT "CHANDLER'S LAW" BY ADDING CHAPTER 26 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR REGULATION OF THE OPERATION OF ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES INCLUDING A REQUIREMENT THAT A PERSON FIFTEEN YEARS OLD OR YOUNGER WHO OPERATES AN ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE MUST POSSESS A SAFETY CERTIFICATE INDICATING SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF AN ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE SAFETY COURSE, AND MUST WEAR A SAFETY HELMET AND EYE PROTECTION WHEN OPERATING AN ATV, MAKING IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN TO KNOWINGLY PERMIT HIS CHILD OR WARD UNDER AGE SIX TO OPERATE AN ATV, AND PROVIDING FURTHER RESTRICTIONS WHEN OPERATING AN ATV ON LANDS THAT ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC THAT ALLOW OPERATION OF AN ATV, TO PROVIDE THAT ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES ARE EXEMPT FROM AD VALOREM TAXES BEGINNING WITH CALENDAR YEAR 2007, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR

Senator RITCHIE asked unanimous consent to take up the veto for immediate consideration.

Senator HUTTO objected.

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

The following Bills and Joint Resolution were read the third time and, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the titles be changed to that of Acts and enrolled for Ratification:

H. 3428 (Word version) -- Rep. G.M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 28 OF TITLE 23, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES OF THE STATE TO APPOINT RESERVE OFFICERS IN THE SAME MANNER AS MUNICIPAL AND COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.

H. 3960 (Word version) -- Reps. Viers, Barfield, Clemmons, Edge, Hardwick, Hayes, Witherspoon, Miller, Govan and Anderson: A JOINT RESOLUTION THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS DIRECTED TO CHANGE ALL HIGHWAY DIRECTIONAL SIGNS IN THE HIGHWAY RIGHTS-OF-WAY UNDER ITS JURISDICTION IN HORRY COUNTY FROM "WACCAMAW POTTERY", WHICH IS NOW CLOSED, TO "HARD ROCK PARK".

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.

H. 3409 (Word version) -- Reps. Scarborough and Limehouse: A BILL TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHARLESTON COUNTY AVIATION AUTHORITY'S MEMBERSHIP SHALL BE INCREASED BY TWO MEMBERS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THESE MEMBERS SHALL BE THE CHAIRMAN AND VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE CHARLESTON COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, OR THEIR DESIGNEES.

The following House Bills were read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments:

H. 3490 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, E.H. Pitts, Delleney, Harrison, Hart, Lucas, Rutherford, Sandifer, Stavrinakis, Thompson, Weeks, Whitmire and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 22, TITLE 17, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAM BY DESIGNATING THE EXISTING SECTIONS AS ARTICLE 1 AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 SO AS TO CREATE THE "ALCOHOL EDUCATION PROGRAM ACT", TO PROVIDE THAT EACH SOLICITOR HAS THE AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH A PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WHO COMMIT CERTAIN ALCOHOL-RELATED OFFENSES, AND TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE OPERATION OF A PROGRAM AND REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS DESIRING TO ENTER A PROGRAM.

H. 3525 (Word version) -- Reps. Bedingfield, G.R. Smith, Pinson, J.H. Neal, F.N. Smith, Allen, Anthony, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Brantley, Cato, Frye, Funderburk, Gullick, Haley, Harrell, Hart, Harvin, Haskins, Hodges, Howard, Kelly, Knight, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Moss, Mulvaney, Neilson, J.R. Smith, W.D. Smith, Spires, Stavrinakis, Walker and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-950 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO HAS BEEN RELEASED FROM THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND WHOSE DRIVER'S LICENSE HAS BEEN SUSPENDED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH AN ORDER FOR CHILD SUPPORT MAY OBTAIN A SPECIAL ROUTE-RESTRICTED DRIVER'S LICENSE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES.

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

S. 493 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56 OF THE 1976 CODE, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY ISSUE OPERATION DESERT STORM-DESERT SHIELD VETERANS LICENSE PLATES, OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM VETERANS LICENSE PLATES, AND OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM VETERANS LICENSE PLATES.

S. 691 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 50 OF THE 1976 CODE, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL STATEWIDE TO BUY, SELL, OR DISPLAY FOR SALE CARCASSES OR PARTS OF WILD RABBITS AND TO INCREASE THE PENALTY TO A MAXIMUM OF FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS, TO DESIGNATE WHICH SPECIES CONSTITUTE BIG GAME, TO ALSO ENABLE THE DEPARTMENT TO SET OTHER OPEN AND CLOSED SEASONS FOR WILD TURKEYS, TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION OF ARCHERY EQUIPMENT, TO SET LIMITS ON THE SIZE OF LARGEMOUTH BASS THAT MAY BE TAKEN FROM LAKE WYLIE, TO PROVIDE THAT A LESSEE MAY USE ARTIFICIAL LIGHTS TO PROTECT HIS PROPERTY, TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE DEPARTMENT SHALL ISSUE AND POST SIGNS IN THE NO WAKE ZONE INFORMING THE PUBLIC OF THE NO WAKE ZONE, TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL STATEWIDE TO RIDE A SURFBOARD NEAR FISHING PIERS, AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 50-3-360, 50-11-30, 50-11-550, 50-13-20, 50-13-65, 50-13-90, 50-13-980, 50-13-1010, 50-13-1020, 50-19-2220, 50-19-2230, AND 50-19-3010.
(ABBREVIATED TITLE)

S. 377 (Word version) -- Senators Ritchie, McConnell, Leventis, Martin, Hayes, Gregory, Richardson, Malloy, Sheheen, Campsen, Cleary, Setzler and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 52, TITLE 48 OF THE 1976 CODE BY ENACTING THE "ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT ACT OF 2007" TO PROVIDE THAT A RESIDENT TAXPAYER WHO CONSTRUCTS A COMMERCIAL BUILDING THAT MEETS THE STANDARDS SET

S. 668 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-11-360, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE APPLICATION OF CHAPTER 11, TITLE 40 (CONTRACTORS LICENSING ACT), SO AS TO EXEMPT A PROJECT IF IT IS A METAL FARM BUILDING LESS THAN FIVE THOUSAND SQUARE FEET USED ONLY FOR LIVESTOCK OR STORAGE.

The following Bills and Joint Resolutions, having been read the second time, were ordered placed on the Third Reading Calendar:

S. 771 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO CREATE THE ALLENDALE COUNTY AERONAUTICS AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS, THEIR TERMS, POWERS, DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES.

H. 3232 (Word version) -- Reps. Breeland, Mack, Anderson, R. Brown, Clyburn, Hart, Hosey, Howard, Jefferson, Scott and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-7750, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF FRATERNITY AND SORORITY SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FEES COLLECTED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION MAY BE USED FOR ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS, OR TO FUND PROGRAMS THAT SEND BOYS AND GIRLS WHO ARE AT LEAST EIGHT YEARS OLD AND NOT MORE THAN SIXTEEN YEARS OLD TO SUMMER CAMP, OR BOTH.

H. 3289 (Word version) -- Rep. Vick: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT FROM SALES TAX THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES OR SALES PRICE OF GOLD, SILVER, AND PLATINUM BULLION, LEGAL TENDER COINS, AND CURRENCY AND TO REQUIRE THE RETAILER TO MAINTAIN PROPER DOCUMENTATION AS REQUIRED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE FOR EACH EXEMPT SALE.

H. 3914 (Word version) -- Education and Public Works Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, RELATING TO DRIVER TRAINING SCHOOLS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3093, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

H. 3923 (Word version) -- Reps. M.A. Pitts and Duncan: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 779 OF 1988, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS 55 AND 56, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ELECTIONS FOR SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE DISTRICTS MUST BE HELD AT THE TIME OF THE GENERAL ELECTION INSTEAD OF THE SECOND TUESDAY OF MARCH, IN APPROPRIATE YEARS, BEGINNING IN 2010 AND 2012.

H. 3915 (Word version) -- Education and Public Works Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, RELATING TO TRUCK DRIVER TRAINING SCHOOLS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3094, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

H. 3659 (Word version) -- Reps. Kirsh, Simrill, Owens, Scott and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-33-245, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EXCISE TAX ON ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A STATE AGENCY OR LOCAL ENTITY THAT DOES NOT RECEIVE THE SAME

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

The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (3659R001.WHO), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 1 in its entirety and inserting:

/   SECTION   1.   Section 12-33-245(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   Those state agencies and local entities, including counties, which are allocated and receive by law minibottle tax revenues in fiscal year 2003-04 2004-2005 for education, prevention, and other purposes, shall receive at least the same amount of revenues from the new excise tax revenues beginning with the first full fiscal year after sales of liquor by the drink are authorized as they did from minibottle tax revenues during fiscal year 2003-04 2004-2005. If these state agencies and local entities do not, the difference must be made up from the general fund within sixty days after the close of each fiscal year. Payments will be distributed in four equal payments based on the total payments remitted to these state agencies and entities in fiscal year 2004-2005, including funds allocated pursuant to Section 6-27-40(B). At the end of each fiscal year, the State Treasurer, in consultation with the Department of Revenue, shall determine whether the tax collected pursuant to these sections exceed the total collection and remittance for fiscal year 2004-2005. If the tax collected exceeds the amount collected and allocated in fiscal year 2004-2005, a distribution of the difference will be remitted to the county treasurers within thirty days after the close of each fiscal year."   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator O'DELL explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

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

H. 3045 (Word version) -- Reps. Cooper, Cobb-Hunter, Umphlett, Mahaffey, Sandifer, G.R. Smith, Hamilton, Davenport, Mitchell, Miller, Battle, Thompson, J.R. Smith, J.H. Neal, M.A. Pitts, Cotty, Ballentine, Haley, Ceips, Funderburk, Brady, White, Kirsh, Jefferson, Vick, McLeod, Harrell, Littlejohn, Lucas, Branham, Delleney, Bowen, Gambrell, Gullick and Sellers: A BILL TO ENACT THE "VOLUNTEER STRATEGIC ASSISTANCE AND FIRE EQUIPMENT ACT OF 2007 (V-SAFE)" BY ADDING CHAPTER 51 TO TITLE 23, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS ANNUALLY FOR GRANTS THAT MUST BE AWARDED TO CERTAIN VOLUNTEER AND COMBINATION FIRE DEPARTMENTS FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROTECTING LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND REGIONAL RESPONSE AREAS FROM INCIDENTS OF FIRE, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, TERRORISM, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE SAFETY OF VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE GRANTS MUST BE ADMINISTERED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION IN CONJUNCTION WITH A PEER REVIEW PANEL.

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

H. 3783 (Word version) -- Reps. Limehouse, Crawford and Bales: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-33-210, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO BIENNIAL LICENSE TAXES GRANTED PURSUANT TO THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL ACT, SO AS TO REDUCE THE BIENNIAL FEE FOR THE MANUFACTURER'S LICENSE FROM FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS TO ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS.

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

H. 3749 (Word version) -- Reps. W.D. Smith, Mitchell, Kelly, Littlejohn, Mahaffey, Moss, Phillips, Talley and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-10-80, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO JOB DEVELOPMENT CREDITS, SO AS TO ALLOW A TAXPAYER WHO QUALIFIES FOR THE JOB DEVELOPMENT CREDIT AND WHO IS LOCATED IN A MULTI-COUNTY BUSINESS OR INDUSTRIAL PARK TO

On motion of Senator O'DELL, the Bill was carried over.

THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.

H. 3567 (Word version) -- Reps. Rice, Gullick, Cotty and Agnew: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-21-620, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TAXATION ON CIGARETTES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF TAX ON EACH CIGARETTE FROM THREE AND ONE-HALF MILLS TO TWO CENTS; TO ADD SECTION 44-6-157 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REVENUE GENERATED FROM THE TAXATION ON CIGARETTES MUST BE USED TO EXPAND MEDICAID COVERAGE TO CHILDREN EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND YOUNGER WHOSE FAMILY INCOME DOES NOT EXCEED TWO HUNDRED PERCENT OF THE FEDERAL POVERTY LEVEL; AND TO CREATE THE HEALTH CARE TRUST FUND TO PROVIDE MEDICAID BENEFITS TO INDIVIDUALS WHOSE FAMILY INCOME DOES NOT EXCEED ONE HUNDRED PERCENT OF THE FEDERAL POVERTY LEVEL AND WHO ARE UNINSURED AND TO PROVIDE THAT REVENUE IN EXCESS OF THE CHILDREN'S MEDICAID COVERAGE FROM THE CIGARETTE TAX MUST BE CREDITED TO THE HEALTH CARE TRUST FUND; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-910, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SALES TAXES GENERALLY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AS OF JULY 1, 2009, THE THREE PERCENT SALES TAX IS ELIMINATED ON UNPREPARED FOOD WHICH LAWFULLY MAY BE PURCHASED WITH UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOOD COUPONS, TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN GENERAL FUND TRANSFERS TO THE EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT ACT FUND FOR EACH FISCAL YEAR TO OFFSET EIA REVENUES LOST AS A RESULT OF THE LOSS OF SALES TAX ON THE SALE OF UNPREPARED FOOD, AND TO REDUCE THE SALES TAX ON UNPREPARED FOOD

Senator MARTIN moved to make the Bill a Special Order.

A roll call vote was ordered.

Senator VERDIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 32B that the motion made by the Chairman of the Rules Committee was out of order inasmuch as the Bill had not been on the Statewide Calendar for a minimum of six legislative days.

Senator MARTIN spoke on the motion.

The PRESIDENT Pro Tempore overruled the Point of Order.

Senator HAWKINS argued contra to the motion to make the Bill a Special Order.

Senator MARTIN argued in favor of the motion to set the Bill as a Special Order.

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

Alexander                 Anderson                  Cleary
Cromer                    Drummond                  Fair
Ford                      Hayes                     Hutto
Jackson                   Knotts                    Land
Leatherman                Leventis                  Lourie
Malloy                    Martin                    Matthews
McGill                    Moore                     O'Dell
Patterson                 Peeler                    Pinckney
Rankin                    Reese                     Ritchie
Scott                     Setzler                   Sheheen
Short                     Thomas                    Williams

Bryant                    Courson                   Grooms
Hawkins                   McConnell                 Ryberg
Vaughn                    Verdin

The Bill 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. 322 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Hawkins, Vaughn, Peeler, Leatherman, Leventis, O'Dell, McConnell, Cromer, Patterson, Knotts, Land, Mescher, Martin and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 114, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD TUITION ASSISTANCE ACT, SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD COLLEGE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM ACT", TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS, TO PROVIDE FOR COLLEGE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM GRANTS TO BE ADMINISTERED BY THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, TO PROVIDE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS TO QUALIFY FOR THE GRANTS, TO PROVIDE FOR FUNDING TO BE APPROPRIATED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION SHALL PROMULGATE REGULATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-111-75, RELATING TO THE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM FOR MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD SERVING IN AREAS OF CRITICAL NEED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM MAY NOT ACCEPT NEW PARTICIPANTS AND PROVIDE THAT MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD WHO HAVE RECEIVED LOANS BEFORE THE 2007-08 ACADEMIC YEAR MAY CONTINUE TO RECEIVE THEIR LOANS AND HAVE

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.

H. 3711 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer and Whitmire: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 25, TITLE 6, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY REDESIGNATING THE CHAPTER KNOWN AS THE "JOINT MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEMS ACT" AS THE "JOINT AUTHORITY WATER AND SEWER SYSTEMS ACT", SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS OF A JOINT AUTHORITY WATER AND SEWER SYSTEM COMMISSION, TO PROVIDE THAT A COMMISSION MAY CONSIST OF NO MORE THAN ELEVEN MEMBERS, TO PROVIDE THAT A CHANGE IN THE MEMBERSHIP OF A JOINT SYSTEM IS NOT FINAL UNTIL NOTICE OF THE CHANGE IS FILED WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE, TO PROVIDE THAT A JOINT SYSTEM MAY ENTER A CONTRACT TO SELL WATER OR PROVIDE SEWER SERVICE, AMONG OTHER THINGS; AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AND TECHNICAL CHANGES THROUGHOUT THE CHAPTER.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, 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. 282 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman and Setzler: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 35, TITLE 11 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE, TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN PROJECT DELIVERY METHODS, TO SPECIFY SOURCE SELECTION METHODS, TO PROVIDE FOR

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

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

S. 327 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 7-5-10, 7-5-35, AND 7-13-70, 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 THAT THE CERTIFICATION BE ISSUED WHEN A MEMBER OR DESIGNATED STAFF PERSON HAS COMPLETED A TRAINING

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

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

Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (JUD0327.003), which was adopted:

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

TO AMEND SECTIONS 7-5-10, 7-5-35, AND 7-13-70, 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 THAT THE CERTIFICATION BE ISSUED WHEN A MEMBER OR DESIGNATED STAFF PERSON HAS COMPLETED A TRAINING PROGRAM AND TO REQUIRE THE GOVERNOR TO REMOVE A MEMBER OF THESE BOARDS OR COMMISSIONS, APPOINTED ON OR AFTER THE ACT'S EFFECTIVE DATE, WHO HAS NOT FULFILLED THE TRAINING REQUIREMENT WITHIN EIGHTEEN MONTHS.

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

SECTION   1.   Section 7-5-10 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 7-5-10.   (A)   Between the first day of January and the fifteenth day of March in every each even-numbered year the Governor shall appoint, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, not less than three nor more than five competent and discreet persons in each county, who are qualified electors of that county and who must be known as the 'Board of Registration of __________ County'. The Governor shall notify the State Election Commission in writing of the appointments. The members appointed are subject to removal by the Governor for incapacity, misconduct, or neglect of duty.

(B)(1)   Members Each member, and such each staff as person designated by the board, must complete, within eighteen months after their a member's initial appointment or his reappointment following a break in service, or within eighteen months after a staff person's initial employment or reemployment following a break in service, a training and certification program conducted by the State Election Commission. When a member or staff person has successfully completed the training and certification program, the State Election Commission must issue the member or staff person a certification, whether or not the member or staff person applies for the certification.

(2)   If, except for an exceptional reason, a member appointed on or after the effective date of this item does not fulfill the training and certification program within eighteen months after his appointment, the Governor, upon notification, must remove that member from the board.

(3)   Following initial completion of the training and certification program required in item (1), each board member, and each staff person designated by the board or commission, must take at least one training course each year."

SECTION   2.   Section 7-5-35 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 7-5-35.   (A)   If a county operates its elections through a combined election and registration commission, the structure and composition are not affected or changed by the provisions of this section. However, the provisions for inclusion of majority and minority party representatives upon the combined commission and upon the expanded commission as constituted for primary elections and protests must be applied to the combined commission, mutatis mutandis.

(B)(1)   Commissioners Each commissioner, and such each staff as person designated by the commission, must complete, within eighteen months after their a commissioner's initial appointment or his reappointment after a break in service, or within eighteen months after a staff person's initial employment or reemployment following a break in service, a training and certification program conducted by the State Election Commission. When a commissioner or staff person has successfully completed the training and certification program, the State Election Commission must issue the commissioner or staff person a certification, whether or not the commissioner or staff person applies for the certification.

(2)   If, except for an exceptional reason, a commissioner appointed on or after the effective date of this item does not fulfill the training and certification program within eighteen months after his

(3)   Following initial completion of the training and certification program required in item (1), each commission member, and staff person designated by the commission, must take at least one training course each year."

SECTION   3.   Section 7-13-70 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 7-13-70.   (A)   For the purpose of carrying on general or special elections provided for in Section 7-13-10, the Governor, at least ninety days before the election, must appoint for each county not less than three nor more than five commissioners of election upon the recommendation of the senatorial delegation and at least half of the members of the House of Representatives from the respective counties. The Governor must notify the State Election Commission in writing of the appointments. The State Election Commission must verify that at least one of the appointees represents the largest political party and one represents the second largest political party as determined by the composition of that county's delegation in the General Assembly or the makeup of the General Assembly as a whole if the county's delegation is composed of only one party's members. The commissioners shall continue in office until their successors are appointed and qualified. After their appointment, the commissioners must take and subscribe, before any officer authorized to administer oaths, the following oath of office prescribed by Section 26 of Article III of the Constitution: 'I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I am duly qualified, according to the Constitution of this State, to exercise the duties of the office to which I have been appointed, and that I will, to the best of my ability, discharge the duties thereof, and preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of this State and of the United States. So help me God'.

(B)   The oath must be immediately filed immediately in the office of the clerk of court of common pleas of the county in which the commissioners are appointed, or if there is no clerk of court, in the office of the Secretary of State.

(C)(1)   Commissioners Each commissioner, and such each staff person as designated by the commission, must complete, within eighteen months after their the commissioner's initial appointment or his reappointment after a break in service, or within eighteen months after a staff person's initial employment or reemployment following a break in service, a training and certification program conducted by the State Election Commission. When a commissioner or staff person has successfully completed the training and certification program, the State

(2)   If, except for an exceptional reason, a commissioner does not fulfill this training requirement, the Governor, upon notification, must remove that commissioner from the commission.

(3)   Following initial completion of the training and certification program required in item (1), each commission member, and staff person designated by the commission, must take at least one training course each year."

SECTION   4.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.

S. 367 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Setzler, Matthews, Short, Fair, Richardson and Vaughn: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 11-11-155 AND 11-11-156, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FUND AND THE MANNER IN WHICH THE SCHOOL DISTRICTS OF THE STATE RECEIVE REVENUES FROM THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FUND, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE METHOD OF DETERMINING AND CALCULATING THESE PAYMENTS, PROVIDING THE SCHEDULE OF THE PAYMENTS TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS, SPECIFYING THE SOURCE OF THE TWO AND ONE-HALF MILLION DOLLAR MINIMUM PAYMENT TO A COUNTY FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN A COUNTY, AND SPECIFYING WHEN A REMAINING BALANCE IN THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FUND IS REMITTED TO COUNTIES FOR PURPOSES OF THE COUNTY OPERATING MILLAGE PROPERTY TAX CREDIT FOR OWNER-OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 6-1-320, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE LIMIT ON PROPERTY TAX

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator HAYES proposed the following amendment (367R001.RWH), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/   SECTION   ___.   A.   Section 6-1-50, as last amended by Act 388 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"Section 6-1-50.   Counties and municipalities receiving revenues from state aid, currently known as Aid to Subdivisions, shall submit annually to the State Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Statistics, Economic Research Section, a financial report detailing their sources of revenue, expenditures by category, indebtedness, and other information as the State Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Statistics, Economic Research Section, requires. The State Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Statistics, Economic Research Section, shall determine the content and format of the annual financial report. The financial report for the most recently completed fiscal year must be submitted to the State Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Statistics, Economic Research Section, by November January fifteenth of each year. If an entity fails to file the financial report by November January fifteenth, then the chief administrative officer of the entity shall be notified in writing that the entity has thirty days to comply with the requirements of this section. The Director of the Office of Research and Statistics may, for good cause, grant a local entity an extension of time to file the annual financial report. Notification by the Director of the Office of Research and Statistics to the Comptroller General that an entity has failed to file the annual financial report thirty days after written notification to the chief administrative officer of the entity must result in the withholding of ten percent of subsequent payments of state aid to the entity until the report is filed. The State Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Statistics, Economic Research Section, is responsible for collecting, maintaining, and compiling the financial data provided by

B.   Notwithstanding the general effective date provided in this act, this section takes effect upon approval of this act by the Governor./

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/     SECTION   ___.   A.   Items (4), (5), and (7) of Section 12-37-3130 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 388 of 2006, are amended to read:

"(4)   'Assessable transfer of interest' means a transfer of an existing interest in real property that subjects the real property to appraisal. For purposes of this definition, an existing interest in real property includes life estate interests and the beneficial use of the property when the fair market value of that beneficial use is substantially equal to the fair market value of the real property or the fee interest.

(5)   'Beneficial use' means the right to possession, use, and enjoyment of property, limited only by encumbrances, easements, and restrictions of record. RESERVED

(7)   'Conveyance' means the date of the instrument of record transfer of an assessable transfer of interest in real property is recorded by the Clerk of Court or Register of Deeds in the county where the real property is located. Failure to record legal instruments evidencing a transfer of interest gives rise to no inference as to whether or not an assessable transfer of interest has occurred."

B.   Section 12-37-3140 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 388 of 2006, is amended to read:

"Section 12-37-3140.   (A)(1)   For property tax years beginning after 2006, the fair market value of real property is its fair market value applicable for the later of:

(a)   the base year, as defined in subsection (C) of this section;

(b)   when December thirty-first of the year in which an assessable transfer of interest has occurred;

(c)   as determined on appeal; or

(d)   as it may be adjusted as determined in a countywide reassessment program conducted pursuant to Section 12-43-217, but limited to increases in such value as provided in subsection (B) of this section.

(2)   To the fair market value of real property as determined at the time provided in item (1) of this subsection, there must be added the fair market value of subsequent improvements and additions to the property.

(B)   Any increase in the fair market value of real property attributable to the periodic countywide appraisal and equalization program implemented pursuant to Section 12-43-217 is limited to fifteen percent within a five-year period to the otherwise applicable fair market value. However, this limit does not apply to the fair market value of additions or improvements to real property in the year those additions or improvements are first subject to property tax, nor do they apply to the fair market value of real property when an assessable transfer of interest occurred in the year that the transfer value is first subject to tax.

(C)   For purposes of determining a 'base year' fair market value pursuant to this section, the fair market value of real property is its appraised value applicable for property tax year 2007.

(D)   Real property valued by the unit valuation concept is excluded from the limits provided pursuant to subsection (B) of this section.

(E)   Value attributable to additions and improvements, and changes in value resulting from assessable transfers of interest occurring in a property tax year are first subject to property tax in the following tax year except as provided pursuant to Section 12-37-670(B)."

C.   1.   Section 12-37-3150(A) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 388 of 2006, is amended by adding a new paragraph at the end to read:

"An assessable transfer of interest resulting in the appraisal required pursuant to this article occurs at the time of execution of the instruments directly resulting in the transfer of interest and without regard as to whether or not the applicable instruments are recorded. Failure to record instruments resulting in a transfer of interest gives rise to no inference as to whether or not an assessable transfer of interest has occurred."

2.   Items (7) and (8) of Section 12-37-3150(B) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 388 of 2006, are amended to read:

"(7)   a transfer of real property or other ownership interests among members of an affiliated group. As used in this item, 'affiliated group' is as defined in Section 1504 of the Internal Revenue Code as defined in Section 12-6-40. Upon request of the applicable property tax assessor, a corporation shall furnish proof within forty-five days that a transfer meets the requirements of this item. A corporation that fails to comply with this request is subject to a civil penalty as provided in Section 12-37-3160(B); or

(8)   a transfer of real property or other ownership interests among corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, limited liability partnerships, or other legal entities if the entities involved are

(9)   a transfer of an interest in a timeshare unit by deed or lease."

D.     Notwithstanding the general effective date of this act this section takes effect upon ratification of an amendment to the Constitution of this State proposed pursuant to Joint Resolution 402 of 2006 and applies for property tax years beginning after 2006.       /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HAYES explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.

S. 657 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander, Lourie, Setzler, Matthews, Hayes, Land, Pinckney, Courson, Fair, McGill and Short: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 110 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA CRITICAL NEEDS NURSING INITIATIVE ACT" INCLUDING PROVISIONS ESTABLISHING THE CRITICAL NEEDS NURSING INITIATIVE FUND, TO IMPROVE THE NUMBER OF QUALIFIED NURSES IN THIS STATE BY PROVIDING NURSING FACULTY SALARY ENHANCEMENTS, CREATING NEW FACULTY POSITIONS, PROVIDING FOR ADDITIONAL NURSING STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS, LOANS, AND GRANTS, ESTABLISHING THE OFFICE FOR HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE RESEARCH TO ANALYZE HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE SUPPLY AND DEMAND, AND PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF SIMULATION TECHNOLOGY AND EQUIPMENT IN THE EDUCATION OF NURSES.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

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

Senator PEELER proposed the following amendment (657R001.HSP), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/   SECTION   ___.   A.   Section 40-43-83 of the 1976 Code, is amended by adding an appropriately numbered subsection to read:

"( )   The Department of Health and Environmental Control is exempt from the provisions of this section that require facilities distributing or dispensing prescription drugs to be permitted by the Board of Pharmacy and from the provisions of this section that require each pharmacy to have a pharmacist-in-charge; however, each health district in this State must have a permit to distribute or dispense prescription drugs."

B.   Section 40-43-86 of the 1976 Code, is amended by adding an appropriately numbered subsection at the end to read:

( )   The Department of Health and Environmental Control is exempt from the provisions of this section that prohibit a pharmacist from serving as a pharmacist-in-charge unless he is physically present in the pharmacy and that prohibits a pharmacist from serving as a pharmacist-in-charge for more than one pharmacy at a time, so that one pharmacist-in-charge may be designated by the department to serve more than one health district."       /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/     SECTION   ___.   Chapter 1, Title 44 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 44-1-215.   Notwithstanding Section 13-7-85, the Department of Health and Environmental Control may retain all funds generated in excess of those funds remitted to the general fund in fiscal year 2000-2001 from fees listed in regulation R61-64 Title B."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator PEELER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.

S. 446 (Word version) -- Senators Malloy, McConnell, Ford, Rankin, Knotts, Cleary, Anderson, Vaughn, Hawkins, Scott, Williams, Drummond, Mescher, Thomas, Short, Hutto, Leatherman, Richardson, Leventis, Elliott, Patterson, Pinckney, Land, Lourie, Jackson, Peeler, Sheheen, Moore and McGill: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE "INDIGENT DEFENSE ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 17-3-5 SO AS TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS FOR PURPOSES OF THE CHAPTER; BY ADDING ARTICLE 5, CHAPTER 3, TITLE 17 SO AS TO ESTABLISH CIRCUIT PUBLIC DEFENDER SELECTION PANELS, PROVIDE FOR THEIR MEMBERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITIES RELATED TO THE APPOINTMENT OF CIRCUIT PUBLIC DEFENDERS, PROVIDE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR CIRCUIT PUBLIC DEFENDERS AND ESTABLISH THEIR DUTIES, AND AUTHORIZE THE CIRCUIT PUBLIC DEFENDERS TO EMPLOY CHIEF COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDERS AND OTHER NECESSARY PERSONNEL; TO AMEND SECTION 17-3-30, RELATING TO THE AFFIDAVIT REGARDING A PERSON'S INABILITY TO EMPLOY COUNSEL AND PAYMENT OF AN INDIGENT PERSON'S ASSETS TO THE STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THOSE ASSETS ARE TO BE PAID TO THE GENERAL FUND OF THE STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 17-3-50, RELATING TO FEES FOR APPOINTED COUNSEL AND PUBLIC DEFENDERS, SO AS TO DELETE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE REGARDING THE APPOINTMENT OF COUNSEL IN ACCORDANCE WITH A PLAN PROMULGATED BY THE BAR OF EACH COUNTY; TO AMEND SECTION 17-3-90, RELATING TO PAYMENT VOUCHERS FOR PRIVATE, APPOINTED COUNSEL, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES AND TO AUTHORIZE THE OFFICE OF INDIGENT DEFENSE TO PRESENT THE VOUCHER TO THE TRIAL JUDGE FOR APPROVAL; BY REVISING ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 3, TITLE 17, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES TO THE ARTICLE IN RELATION TO THE ADDITION OF ARTICLE 5; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 17-3-60 RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR ESTABLISHING PUBLIC DEFENDER

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

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

Senator SETZLER proposed the following amendment (BBM\10105HTC07), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, in SECTION 8, page 27, by adding a new subsection at the end to read:

/ M.   Section 9-1-2210(I) of the 1976 Code, as amended by Act 153 of 2005, is further amended to read:

"(I)   A member is not eligible to participate in the program if the member has participated previously in and received a benefit under this program or any other state retirement system. However, a member who has received a disability benefit, but who has been restored to active service and voided his optional benefit selection pursuant to Section 9-1-1590 and repaid any benefit received is eligible to participate in the program." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators THOMAS, LEATHERMAN and MALLOY proposed the following amendment (446R001.DLT), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 9, by striking SECTION 4 in its entirety and inserting:

/     SECTION   4.   Section 17-3-30(A) and (B) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   A person to whom counsel has been provided shall execute an affidavit that he is financially unable to employ counsel and that affidavit shall must set forth all his assets. If it appears that the person has some assets but they are insufficient to employ private counsel, the court, in its discretion, may order the person to pay these assets to the defender corporation of the county or counties wherein he is being

(B)   A twenty-five forty dollar application fee for public defender services must be collected from every person who executes an affidavit that he is financially unable to employ counsel. The person may apply to the clerk of court or other appropriate official for a waiver or reduction in the application fee. If the clerk or other appropriate official determines that the person is unable to pay the application fee, the fee may be waived or reduced, provided that if the fee is waived or reduced, the clerk or appropriate official shall report the amount waived or reduced to the trial judge upon sentencing and the trial judge shall order the remainder of the fee paid during probation if the person is granted probation. The clerk of court or other appropriate official shall collect the application fee imposed by this section and remit the proceeds to the state fund on a monthly basis. The monies must be deposited in an interest-bearing account separate from the general fund and used only to provide for indigent defense services. The monies shall be administered by the Office of Indigent Defense. The clerk of court or other appropriate official shall maintain a record of all persons applying for representation and the disposition of the application and shall provide this information to the Office of Indigent Defense on a monthly basis as well as reporting the amount of funds collected or waived. "     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator THOMAS explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator MALLOY proposed the following amendment (JUD0446.003), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 15, by striking lines 8-9 and inserting:

/   (B)   Nine members shall be appointed by the Governor as follows:/

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, pages 28-29, by striking SECTION 12 in its entirety.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MALLOY explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator SHEHEEN proposed the following amendment (BBM\10107HTC07), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, in SECTION 8, page 27, by adding an appropriately lettered subsection at the end to read:

/ __.   Section 9-8-110(2) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 139 of 1995, is further amended to read:

"(2)   Unless a married member has designated a beneficiary other than his spouse in accordance with subsection (1), upon his death prior to in service before retirement an allowance equal to one-third of the allowance which would have been payable to him, assuming if he was then eligible to retire on his date of death notwithstanding the vesting requirement of Section 9-8-50(E)(1) and as if he had retired on the date of his death, shall must be paid to his surviving spouse until her death. This allowance is payable in lieu of the lump sum amount payable in accordance with subsection (1). Upon the death of a retired member who has not designated a beneficiary other than a spouse an allowance equal to one-third of the allowance which would have been payable to him, shall must be paid to the surviving spouse until death. For purposes of this subsection, 'retired member' shall include includes those former judges and solicitors who are beneficiaries pursuant to subsection (4) of Section 9-8-60." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SHEHEEN explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators LAND, McGILL, LEATHERMAN and ALEXANDER proposed the following amendment (446-SHORT), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 25, lines 1 and 2 by striking and inserting the following:

/   (a)   attained the age of sixty-five two and completed at least twenty years of credited service;     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LAND explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator MOORE proposed the following amendment (446R003.TLM), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, on page 15, by deleting lines 41- 43.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MOORE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.

Senator MALLOY, with unanimous consent, was recognized to speak on the Bill.

Senator KNOTTS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Senator GROOMS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.

H. 3124 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Harrell, Harrison, Cotty, Bingham, Toole, D.C. Smith and Crawford: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 62 TO TITLE 59 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PUBLIC SCHOOL OPEN ENROLLMENT CHOICE PROGRAM IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM OF THIS STATE, TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS, TO PROVIDE FOR AN APPLICATION PROCESS FOR STUDENTS WISHING TO TRANSFER, TO PROVIDE RESPONSIBILITIES OF RECEIVING SCHOOL DISTRICTS, TO

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

Senator HAYES was recognized to explain the Bill.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, debate was interrupted by adjournment, with Senator HAYES retaining the floor.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Ralph Sarlin of Liberty, S.C., a longtime Pickens County civic and business leader who passed away on May 14th.

At 1:52 P.M., on motion of Senator MARTIN, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:45 A.M.

This web page was last updated on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 2:02 P.M.