Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

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

The plaintive plea of the prophet, Isaiah, resonates through the ages:

"Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God."   (Isaiah 40:1)
  Let us pray:
  Today, O Lord, we pray for the needy in South Carolina, those whom these Senators also wish to represent meaningfully and faithfully. Our hearts go out to the disadvantaged, to the poor, to those with little or no access to health care. Let this Senate always focus upon the needs of all people as these leaders in this Senate strive to bring comfort and hope and a better way of life for everyone. O God, bless our troops; bless the people of this State themselves; bless those in our nation and around the globe who continue to wrestle with devastation from natural disasters. And, Lord, bring peace, bestow comfort, and give us hope. We pray this in your loving name, Lord.
Amen.

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

The Honorable André Bauer
President of the Senate
State House, First Floor, East Wing
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Mr. President and Members of the Senate:

I am vetoing and returning without my approval S. 1085, R-285, which requires the House and Senate legislative ethics committees to handle ethics complaints and administer sanctions involving their respective legislative staff.

(R285, S1085 (Word version)) -- Senators McConnell and Hayes: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1331 SO AS TO PROVIDE A CORPORATION OR COMMITTEE OF A CORPORATION MAY SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS FROM ITS SHAREHOLDERS AND EXECUTIVE OR ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL AND FAMILY MEMBERS OF PERSONNEL OF THE CORPORATION OR ITS SUBSIDIARIES, BRANCHES, AND DIVISIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-100, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CERTAIN DEFINITIONS RELATED TO ETHICS AND GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY SENATE STAFF MEMBERS IS THE SENATE ETHICS COMMITTEE AND THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STAFF MEMBERS IS THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ETHICS COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-320, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE EXEMPT SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STAFF MEMBERS FROM CERTAIN INVESTIGATORY POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1300, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CERTAIN DEFINITIONS RELATED TO CAMPAIGN PRACTICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY SENATE STAFF MEMBERS IS THE SENATE ETHICS COMMITTEE AND THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STAFF MEMBERS IS THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ETHICS COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-530, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO INCLUDE LEGISLATIVE STAFF; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1306, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION OF A COMMITTEE OR BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THESE STATEMENTS MUST INCLUDE THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF SPECIFIC AFFILIATED COMMITTEES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1308, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FILING OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS BY CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A COMMITTEE OF A CORPORATION THAT SOLICITS CONTRIBUTIONS PURSUANT TO SECTION 8-13-1331 MUST CERTIFY COMPLIANCE WITH THAT SECTION ON A FORM PROVIDED BY THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION.

This bill extends the current process of legislators enforcing ethics laws against fellow legislators to legislative staff. I believe this bill, as well as the current system of legislative law enforcement, is fundamentally flawed because it puts legislators in the very awkward position of having to police themselves and their staff on potential violations of ethics laws. The founding fathers were deliberate about the separation of powers because, at minimum, they knew it was difficult to be hard on someone who could hold the keys to your advancement and, at maximum, they recognized the potential for abuse. This process could easily create potential conflicts of interest because ethics committee members, who are investigating alleged misconduct of legislators and staff, are also working with other members and their staff on a daily basis during the session. Even with the most objective and principled of ethics committee members, it is difficult to avoid an appearance of a biased and predisposed enforcement system in the eyes of the general public, which I believe diminishes the integrity of the ethics process.

The State Ethics Commission handles ethics complaints and administers sanctions against all public officials and employees, except legislators. With the passage of S. 1085, this world grows to include their staff. This Commission is an independent body and its members are protected from being removed at the discretion of any governor. The General Assembly's purpose for creating a layer of independence and protection around the State Ethics Commission was to prevent improper influence or interference by any public official, including the governor, in an ethics matter and to avoid an appearance of impropriety.

I believe the General Assembly should apply the same principles it has applied to the Executive Branch to itself and create a more objective process for enforcing ethics laws against legislators and their staff.

For these reasons, I am vetoing and returning without my approval S. 1085, R-285.
Sincerely,
/s/ Mark Sanford

(R285, S1085 (Word version)) -- Senators McConnell and Hayes: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1331 SO AS TO PROVIDE A CORPORATION OR COMMITTEE OF A CORPORATION MAY SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS FROM ITS SHAREHOLDERS AND EXECUTIVE OR ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL AND FAMILY MEMBERS OF PERSONNEL OF THE CORPORATION OR ITS SUBSIDIARIES, BRANCHES, AND DIVISIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-100, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CERTAIN DEFINITIONS RELATED TO ETHICS AND GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY SENATE STAFF MEMBERS IS THE SENATE ETHICS COMMITTEE AND THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STAFF MEMBERS IS THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ETHICS COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-320, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE EXEMPT SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STAFF MEMBERS FROM CERTAIN INVESTIGATORY POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1300, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CERTAIN DEFINITIONS RELATED TO CAMPAIGN PRACTICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY SENATE STAFF MEMBERS IS THE SENATE ETHICS COMMITTEE AND THE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISORY OFFICE FOR THE FILING OF CERTAIN ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY REPORTS BY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STAFF MEMBERS IS THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ETHICS COMMITTEE; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-530, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SO AS TO INCLUDE LEGISLATIVE STAFF; TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1306, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF A STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION OF A COMMITTEE OR BALLOT MEASURE COMMITTEE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THESE STATEMENTS MUST INCLUDE THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF SPECIFIC AFFILIATED COMMITTEES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 8-13-1308, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FILING OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS BY CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A COMMITTEE OF A CORPORATION THAT SOLICITS CONTRIBUTIONS PURSUANT TO SECTION 8-13-1331 MUST CERTIFY COMPLIANCE WITH THAT SECTION ON A FORM PROVIDED BY THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION.

The veto of the Governor was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator McCONNELL spoke on the veto.

Senator McCONNELL moved that the veto of the Governor be overridden.

The question was put, "Shall the Act become law, the veto of the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding?"

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

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

The necessary two-thirds vote having been received, the veto of the Governor was overridden, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

The Honorable André Bauer
President of the Senate
State House, First Floor, East Wing
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

Dear Mr. President and Members of the Senate:

I am vetoing and returning without my approval S. 1161, R-286.

(R286, S1161 (Word version)) -- Senator Williams: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 254 OF 1981, RELATING TO THE MARION COURT LIBRARY COMMISSION AND THE MARION COURT LIBRARY, TO PROVIDE THAT FUNDS REMAINING IN THE MARION COURT LIBRARY FUND AFTER PURCHASING BOOKS, LEGAL PERIODICALS, AND OTHER NECESSARY LIBRARY SUPPLIES MAY BE USED FOR THE COURT SYSTEM IN MARION COUNTY.

This veto is based on my belief that this bill is unconstitutional. S. 1161 allows funds from the Marion Court Library to be used for operating expenses of the Marion County court system. This legislation affects only Marion County and is, therefore, clearly an act for a specific county.

Such acts are in violation of Article VIII, Section 7, of the Constitution of the State of South Carolina, which provides that "[n]o laws for a specific county shall be enacted." Acts similar to this legislation have been struck down by the South Carolina Supreme Court as violative of Article VIII, Section 7.

For this reason, I have vetoed S. 1161, R-286.
Sincerely,
/s/ Mark Sanford

(R286, S1161 (Word version)) -- Senator Williams: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 254 OF 1981, RELATING TO THE MARION COURT LIBRARY COMMISSION AND THE MARION COURT LIBRARY, TO PROVIDE THAT FUNDS REMAINING IN THE MARION COURT LIBRARY FUND AFTER PURCHASING BOOKS, LEGAL PERIODICALS, AND OTHER NECESSARY LIBRARY SUPPLIES MAY BE USED FOR THE COURT SYSTEM IN MARION COUNTY.

The veto of the Governor was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator WILLIAMS moved that the veto of the Governor be overridden.

The question was put, "Shall the Act become law, the veto of the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding?"

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

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

The necessary two-thirds vote having been received, the veto of the Governor was overridden, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Senator McCONNELL introduced Dr. John Raymond of Charleston, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

In commemoration of continuous service with the State of South Carolina, Senator McCONNELL, PRESIDENT Pro Tempore of the Senate, and Senator DRUMMOND presented certificates and awarded service pins to the following Senate staff for their respective years of state service:
10 Year Pin
Lila M. Cogdill

20 Year Pins
Cynthia C. Aiken
Paul Thomas Bell, Jr.
Claude R. McMillan III
Dianne S. Mullis
Lawrence Paul Scott III
John O. Wienges

30 Year Pin
DeAnne Raven Gray
James R. Melton
Joyce D. Reid
Melvin D. "Butch" Thompson, Jr.

Senator McCONNELL presented a certificate and service pin to the following Senators for their years of service:
10 Year Pins
George E. "Chip" Campsen III
Joel B. Lourie
Daniel B. Verdin III

20 Year Pins
John Yancey McGill
William H. O'Dell
Lewis R. Vaughn

30 Year Pin
Larry A. Martin

All were highly commended for their years of devoted and loyal service.

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, Senator SHORT was escorted to the podium by Senators McCONNELL and LAND upon the occasion of her retirement from the Senate.

Senators PEELER, LAND, McCONNELL, MALLOY and CEIPS addressed the Senate with remarks.

Senator SHORT addressed the Senate.

On behalf of Governor Mark Sanford, Senator McCONNELL presented the Order of the Palmetto to Senator SHORT.

Thank you all so much. I promised my "sis" back here that I wasn't going to cry and she said that's the reason there aren't more women here because we are too emotional and I can attest to that this day.

I don't come from a political family. I don't remember them talking about it until I was an adult, and married my husband, Paul, whose mother and dad were precinct managers in Gastonia, North Carolina. And that was kind of my first introduction into politics. In spite of that, I was really not interested in running myself until I ran into so many issues in a local school where my oldest daughter started attending high school. I felt obligated at that point to try to do something different. So, I ran for the school board the first time against the incumbent chairman and against an African American minister in a majority/minority district. I was fortunate enough to win that election. I've never made it easy on myself. I've always had hard elections, but I have been really fortunate to have been elected each time that I have run since 1982.

I came to the Senate for much the same reason. When this seat was created as an open seat--District 17--I didn't think the people who had announced that they were going to run would work on the kinds of issues that I think are so important for families--education and healthcare--all of those things that I have worked on over the years. So I decided to run again in a majority/minority district that was newly created. I was told by my first opponent that I had no right to run there because it was a majority/minority district. And my response to him was, "This is where I live; I can't run anywhere else." And again, I was fortunate enough to be elected.

I will tell you that the first time I came into this Chamber, like my good friend from Cherokee, I had not been in the Senate. I'd been in the House when Paul served there, but I had not come to the Senate. And I felt a complete sense of awe when I came in here. I didn't realize that I would be thrown into an election for the Sergeant-at-Arms, but I was. I don't think our Sergeant-at-Arms holds that against me. I don't think he ever has, but that was a surprise to me to have to come to the podium on my very first day. It was overwhelming and I still feel that same sense of awe when I come here.

I think for all of us, to know that people have that much trust in our judgment, we can come here and act on their behalf, and we can vote on their behalf and they trust us to make decisions wisely, is just a wonderful responsibility. But, it is a responsibility and it is a trust. And for that reason I still feel that same sense of awe.

It has been a wonderful, wonderful opportunity for me. I feel like I'm leaving a whole house full of brothers and one newly adopted sister. I'm going to miss all of you so much. (Two sisters, you're right - my other sister over here). There is so much wisdom in this body, not just on the front row or on the back row, but all across the Chamber and I hope that you will remember that. You need to listen to newly elected people, and people that have served for half as long, as well as the people who have been here for such a long time.

I want to thank my family for their support. My mother-in-law, Betty Short, who has been more like a mother to me since my mom died at such a young age; my daughters, Lindy Blanks, and her husband Will, and my first granddaughter, Ariel; my youngest daughter, Melanie, her husband, Wayne, and my other two grandchildren, Noah and Blythe. You all have been such a wonderful support system. I don't know if you all know this, but the first time I ran for school board, Paul was also running for the House. I don't advise anybody to do that. That's not a good idea for a husband and wife to be running for office at the same time. But it was probably much, much harder on our children who were pretty young at that time than it was on us. And, I am so grateful to them for all of their support they have given to me and to Paul through the years. Otherwise, we couldn't do the kind of work that we do.

I'm going to miss all of you so much. I hope if one thing changes in the Senate--no, really two--it has been an honor for me to be one of two women in the Senate from all across the State, and I have tried--even when I know I have to take a position on one side and I know that there are other women who don't agree with me--I've tried to do it in such a way that at least women thought that they had a voice. I just wish that sometime there will be the same proportion of women in office that there is in the State. I know it won't happen in my lifetime, but it will happen in theirs. So, if my granddaughters decide they want to run, it won't seem like such an oddity; it will seem like a normal thing.

The other item relates to the Rules of the Senate. I really think that the Senate did better for all of us and for all the people of this State, when we all gathered together based on our opinions on issues, instead of our party preference. I know that it's sort of a fact of life right now, but I think it could change again, and I hope it does.

Again, I am so grateful to all of you for your support and your friendship and I will miss you more than I can say.

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator SHORT were ordered printed in the Journal.

H. 4552 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison, M.A. Pitts, Kirsh, Jennings and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 13, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 58, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SPECIAL OFFICERS AND CONSTABLES, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE UTILITY POLICE OFFICERS, DEFINE TERMS RELATED TO INCLUDING UTILITY POLICE OFFICERS IN THE ARTICLE, AND TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF UTILITY POLICE OFFICERS.

Senator SHEHEEN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.

There was no objection.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary.

Ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

The following were introduced:

S. 1436 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING ACADEMIC MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL IN NORTH CHARLESTON FOR BEING SELECTED BY NEWSWEEK AS SEVENTH BEST HIGH SCHOOL IN THE COUNTRY.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 1437 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF RICHLAND COUNTY SHERIFF LEON LOTT AND TO DECLARE SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2008, AS "LEON LOTT DAY" IN HOPKINS, SOUTH CAROLINA.
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On motion of Senator JACKSON, with unanimous consent, the Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 1438 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler, Alexander, Anderson, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Ceips, Cleary, Courson, Cromer, Drummond, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hawkins, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Knotts, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Ritchie, Ryberg, Scott, Sheheen, Short, Thomas, Vaughn, Verdin and Williams: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE RETURNING MEMBERS OF THE 218TH BRIGADE OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD FOR THEIR SERVICE AND FOR THEIR MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND HONORS IN AFGHANISTAN AND TO WELCOME THEM HOME TO SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

Senator SETZLER asked unanimous consent to make a motion to waive the provisions of Rule 35 as to the written request for guests being invited to the Senate Chamber.

There was no objection.

On motion of Senator SETZLER, with unanimous consent, the Privilege of the Floor was extended to Brigadier General Robert E. Livingston, leader of and on behalf of the 218th Brigade serving in Afghanistan from February 2007 until their recent return. General Livingston was escorted to the podium by Adjutant General Stan Spears, Representative James Smith and Sergeant-at-Arms James Melton.

We have with us today Brigadier General Robert E. Livingston, Jr. who was the commander of the 218 Infantry Brigade in Afghanistan, along with the Adjutant General, Stan Spears, and Representative James Smith.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I would ask that the Sergeant-at-Arms escort Brigadier General Livingston and his party to the Floor of the Senate.

Mr. PRESIDENT, ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, this is an unusual moment and I can tell you that during my service in the Senate--and he doesn't know I'm going to say this--one of the most memorable moments was the time that Senator PHIL LEVENTIS returned from his service in Desert Storm and took this podium. I had chills running up and down my spine listening to him as a member of this Senate talk about the commitment he had made in flying those missions. And, then I remember Representative James Smith who is a friend of many in here but a particular and very special friend of Senator LOURIE and Senator SHEHEEN when he made the choice and volunteered and went to Afghanistan.

And, of course, Brigadier General Robert Livingston, Jr. grew up in Lexington County in the Cayce-West Columbia area. He has commanded a combined Joint Task Force of 8,600 personnel, including Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines, in addition to coalition partners from twenty-two nations. They were responsible for training and mentoring the Afghan National Army with an end strength of 84,000 in December 2008 and training the Afghan National Police with an end strength of 82,000 in December 2008. They were responsible for developing a self-generating Afghanistan National Security Force.

The Brigadier General is accompanied today by his mother and father who are close personal friends of mine, his wife, and his Sgt. Major and they are in the balcony and I would ask that they stand and be recognized by the Senate. Please stand and be welcomed before we proceed further.

I could say so much about Brigadier General Robert E. Livingston, Jr. but he asked that I not include all that is in his bio. I am just going to tell you a couple of his major awards and decorations. The Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with four bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with two bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal with one silver Oak Leaf and the one bronze Oak Leaf Cluster.

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a Resolution that I'm going to ask unanimous consent to make a motion that the roll of the Senate be applied to the Resolution and that it be read by the Clerk of the Senate at this time. (The Resolution was published and adopted.)

Now, on behalf of the South Carolina Senate and the people of South Carolina, we want to thank you for your service and that of the 218th Brigade. It's because of people like you and your service, as Senator SHORT mentioned earlier, that we are able to serve here in the South Carolina Senate in a free society and we want to thank you.

General Livingston.

On motion of Senator SETZLER, with unanimous consent, General Livingston addressed the Senate with brief remarks.

First off, I want to thank you for the rousing welcome home on behalf of the entire 218th Brigade. It's certainly good to be home. You may have noticed as I accepted your welcome that I placed my hand over my heart. It's the traditional greeting in Afghanistan. Representative James (Smith) and I learned that quite a few times while we were over there. It was an interesting experience with the people of Afghanistan. I'd be happy to share that with you privately later on. I will tell you that we have made a tremendous difference over there. And, we were there at the right time.

I would like to make a couple of quick remarks on behalf of the 8,700 men and women in 22 countries that make up the combined Joint Task Force Phoenix, especially the 1608 soldiers from South Carolina. I want to thank the entire State Legislature and the people of South Carolina for your unwavering support. We have been supported like no other task force over there. I tell you that we have done things like no other task force, but we have been supported like no other task force.

Our over 260 teams in over 240 locations through the nation of Afghanistan made a difference at the right time. We stopped the slaughter of the Afghan National Police. They were losing 200-300 people a month. And, after we got there, and we put our mentors out, it dropped to 20-30. We developed a systematic training program for them. We accelerated the development of the Afghan National Army through new and innovative programs. As a result, for the first time ever, police held their districts through the Fall. And this Spring, they are providing the people of Afghanistan with the Rule of Law. The Army doubled its available strength to almost 50,000 and, for the first time in history, validated a corps headquarters-- which is a division size headquarters--there are five of them within the nation--a brigade headquarters and a battalion that is capable of independent operation--that is our ticket to leaving Afghanistan.

The Army and the police are now taking the fight to the enemy. And, they are taking the lead in the coalition fight. In many cases, the coalition now works with the Afghan Army. We remember our--now 23--fallen comrades, especially four of them from South Carolina--Sgt. Philpot, Staff Sgt. Bullard, Sgt. Hill, and Specialist Leimbach. As you know, we just lost another one of the soldiers who stayed behind.

We also remember the great sacrifices by our families. The sacrifices by both the families and the soldiers are not in vain. Afghanistan is much better off than it was a year ago. And, the world is a little bit safer.

Thank you so much for your support.

General Livingston presented the Senate with a plaque in gratitude to the Senate for its unwaivering support of the 218th Brigade.

On motion of Senator PEELER, the remarks of General Livingston and Senator SETZLER were ordered printed in the Journal.

S. 1439 (Word version) -- Senator Pinckney: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS SOUTH OF THE FIVE-MILE MARKER ALONG INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 95 IN JASPER COUNTY AS A MEMORIAL TO TROOPER FIRST CLASS BRUCE SMALLS WHO WAS KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY ON SEPTEMBER 27, 1985.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 1440 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Alexander, Anderson, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Ceips, Cleary, Courson, Cromer, Drummond, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Grooms, Hawkins, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Knotts, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, Martin, Massey, Matthews, McGill, O'Dell, Patterson, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Ritchie, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Short, Thomas, Vaughn, Verdin and Williams: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE HONORABLE CHAUNCEY K. GREGORY OF LANCASTER COUNTY FOR HIS SIXTEEN YEARS OF OUTSTANDING AND DEDICATED SERVICE AS A MEMBER OF THE SENATE, UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE SENATE, AND TO WISH HIM SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

H. 5029 (Word version) -- Reps. Witherspoon and Loftis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL UNDERTAKE THE ACTIONS PRESCRIBED AND REQUIRED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ACT TO PROMULGATE, AS REGULATIONS, THOSE POLICIES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT PLAN THAT ARE BOTH RELEVANT AND APPROPRIATE.

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

H. 5186 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Weeks and G. Brown: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 261 IN SUMTER COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 76/378 TO THE SUMTER/KERSHAW COUNTY LINE THE "MAJOR GENERAL GEORGE L. MABRY, JR. CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "MAJOR GENERAL GEORGE L. MABRY, JR. CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT MEMORIAL HIGHWAY".

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

Senator LEVENTIS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Concurrent Resolution from the Committee on Transportation.

There was no objection.

The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation.

On motion of Senator LEVENTIS, with unanimous consent, the Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Concurrent Resolution, the question being the adoption of the Concurrent Resolution.

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

H. 5191 (Word version) -- Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY EXAMINERS, RELATING TO ESTABLISHING FEES, GUIDELINES FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION, AND REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE AS A PHYSICAL THERAPIST AND PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3202, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

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

H. 5198 (Word version) -- Rep. Davenport: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ERECT SIGNS IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY AT THE INTERSECTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 9 AND OLD FURNACE ROAD AND AT THE INTERSECTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 9 AND INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 85 THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "BOILING SPRINGS HOME OF THE BOILING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL BULLDOGS 2008 CLASS AAAA STATE BASEBALL CHAMPIONS".

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

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

H. 4320 (Word version) -- Reps. Whipper, Clyburn, R. Brown and Hosey: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-63-31, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR ATTENDANCE AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SO AS TO ADD THE RESIDENCE OF A CHILD IN A PARTICULAR SCHOOL DISTRICT AS A RESULT OF A PARENT'S OR LEGAL GUARDIAN'S MILITARY DEPLOYMENT.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 4372 (Word version) -- Rep. J.R. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 14 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 59 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE STATE BOARD FOR TECHNICAL AND COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATION AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS POWERS AND DUTIES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 4451 (Word version) -- Reps. Ballentine and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 59-112-10, 59-113-20, AS AMENDED, 59-115-20, 59-149-20, 59-150-20, AND 59-150-370, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS TO RECEIVE STATE AID FOR EDUCATION, ALL SO AS TO REVISE DEFINITIONS TO EXCLUDE PERSONS WHO ARE NOT LAWFULLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES FROM ELIGIBILITY TO RECEIVE STATE AID FOR EDUCATION.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GROOMS from the Committee on Transportation polled out H. 4511 favorable:

H. 4511 (Word version) -- Rep. Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY REPEALING SECTION 56-1-1750 RELATING TO A MOPED DRIVER'S LICENSE.

Grooms                    Ryberg                    Land
Leatherman                McGill                    Elliott
Rankin                    Hawkins                   Verdin
Drummond                  Malloy                    Short
Pinckney                  Campsen                   Cleary
Scott                     Ceips

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 4758 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, Bedingfield, Ballentine, Pinson, Bannister, Herbkersman, E.H. Pitts, Sellers, Taylor, Young and Hodges: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-425 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT WHO IS THE VICTIM OF PHYSICAL ABUSE, HARASSMENT, OR STALKING BY A CLASSMATE DURING SCHOOL HOURS OR OTHERWISE RESULTING IN A RESTRAINING ORDER BEING GRANTED AGAINST THE CLASSMATE BY A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION MAY TRANSFER WITH THE CONSENT OF THE STUDENT'S SCHOOL DISTRICT TO ANOTHER HIGH SCHOOL WITHIN OR OUT OF THE DISTRICT, WITHOUT ANY LOSS OF ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES AT THE SCHOOL TO WHICH THE STUDENT TRANSFERS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 4833 (Word version) -- Reps. Cooper, Funderburk, Loftis, Hodges and Hutson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-10-400 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM ACT" TO PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE FOR THE DUTIES OF ITS DIRECTOR, AND TO ESTABLISH A WEB SITE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM INITIATIVES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 4953 (Word version) -- Reps. Cooper, Harrell and Bingham: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EDUCATION, BY ADDING CHAPTER 151 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA LIGHTRAIL CONSORTIUM, TO PROVIDE FOR THE GOVERNANCE OF THE CONSORTIUM, AND FOR ITS FUNDING, DUTIES, AND POWERS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

S. 968 (Word version) -- Senators McGill, O'Dell, Williams and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-23-405, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITION OF "WEAPON" AND THE HANDLING OF WEAPONS USED IN THE COMMISSION OF A CRIME, SO AS TO REMOVE "KNIFE WITH A BLADE OVER TWO INCHES LONG" FROM THE DEFINITION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 16-23-460, RELATING TO CARRYING CONCEALED WEAPONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXCLUSION OF KNIVES WITHIN THE PURVIEW OF THE OFFENSE UNLESS THEY ARE USED WITH THE INTENT TO COMMIT A CRIME.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 3023 (Word version) -- Rep. Bingham: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 95 TO TITLE 38 SO AS TO ENACT THE INTERSTATE INSURANCE PRODUCT REGULATION COMPACT TO REGULATE CERTAIN DESIGNATED INSURANCE PRODUCTS AND ADVERTISEMENT OF THOSE PRODUCTS UNIFORMLY AMONG THE STATES THAT ARE COMPACT MEMBERS, AND TO AUTHORIZE THIS STATE TO JOIN THE COMPACT.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 3028 (Word version) -- Reps. Funderburk, Haskins, Witherspoon, Whipper, Hardwick, Hagood, Clemmons, Neilson and Erickson: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-5-42 SO AS TO MAKE IT AN UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICE KNOWINGLY AND WILFULLY TO MISREPRESENT THE IDENTITY OF FOOD OR A FOOD PRODUCT THAT IS SERVED, SOLD, OR OTHERWISE COMMERCIALLY DISTRIBUTED OR OFFERED FOR DISTRIBUTION, TO SPECIFY ACTS OF MISREPRESENTATION OF THE IDENTITY OF FOOD OR A FOOD PRODUCT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR CRIMINAL, CIVIL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 3159 (Word version) -- Reps. Toole, Umphlett, Littlejohn, Huggins, Sandifer, Viers, Hamilton, G.R. Smith, Leach, Haskins, Cato, Shoopman, Bedingfield, Loftis and Lowe: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 10-1-210 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT HISTORICAL DOCUMENTS AND EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL MATERIAL REGARDING THE HISTORY AND BACKGROUND OF AMERICAN LAW MAY BE USED IN APPROVED DISPLAYS, MONUMENTS, PLAQUES, OR SIMILAR FIXTURES IN STATE OR LOCAL PUBLIC AREAS, BUILDINGS, OR PLACES.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 3723 (Word version) -- Reps. Neilson, Anthony, Bales, Clyburn, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Jefferson, Mack, Moss and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-155 SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT IN THIS STATE TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT AN EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR PROGRAM FOR EACH HIGH SCHOOL IN THE DISTRICT WHICH REQUIRES THAT SUCH A DEFIBRILLATOR IS PROVIDED ON THE GROUNDS OF EACH HIGH SCHOOL, THAT DISTRICT EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS REASONABLY EXPECTED TO USE THE DEVICE ARE TRAINED IN ITS USE, AND THAT THESE DEVICES ARE PERIODICALLY INSPECTED AND ANNUALLY MAINTAINED.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 3852 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison and McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-4-130, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF TERMS USED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL'S EMERGENCY HEALTH POWERS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "QUALIFYING HEALTH CONDITION" AND "TRIAL COURT"; TO AMEND SECTION 44-4-320, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES REGARDING SAFE DISPOSAL OF HUMAN REMAINS, SO AS TO SPECIFY THAT EXISTING PROVISIONS IN THE STATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN GOVERN THE DISPOSAL OF REMAINS AND IF THE PLAN IS NOT SUFFICIENT, MEASURES MAY BE ADOPTED RELATING TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, DEATH CERTIFICATE AND AUTOPSY PROCEDURES; TO AMEND SECTION 44-4-530, RELATING TO ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE OF INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS AND PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE, SO AS TO CHANGE A MISDEMEANOR OFFENSE TO A FELONY OFFENSE FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE DEPARTMENT'S ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE RULES AND ORDERS AND TO PROHIBIT AN EMPLOYER FROM FIRING, DEMOTING, OR DISCRIMINATING AGAINST AN EMPLOYEE COMPLYING WITH AN ISOLATION OR QUARANTINE ORDER; TO AMEND SECTION 44-4-540, RELATING TO ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE PROCEDURES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ISOLATION AND QUARANTINING OF INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS UNDER OTHER PROVISIONS OF LAW MUST BE CARRIED OUT PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 44-4-570, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL EMERGENCY HEALTH POWERS AND PROCEDURES REGARDING LICENSING OF HEALTH PERSONNEL, SO AS TO FURTHER SPECIFY THE USE OF IN-STATE AND OUT-OF-STATE VOLUNTEER HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, TO PROVIDE THAT IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY FOR VOLUNTEER HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS IN A STATE OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY APPLIES WHETHER OR NOT THE VOLUNTEER RECEIVES FINANCIAL GAIN FOR THE VOLUNTEER SERVICES, AND TO PROVIDE SUCH IMMUNITY TO EMERGENCY ASSISTANT MEDICAL EXAMINERS OR CORONERS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 4229 (Word version) -- Rep. McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 14-25-130 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PREPARATION OF JURY LISTS FROM THE TAPE OF PERSONS HOLDING A VALID STATE DRIVER'S LICENSE OR IDENTIFICATION CARD TO BE FURNISHED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO MUNICIPAL JURY COMMISSIONERS FOR USE IN SELECTING MUNICIPAL JURIES; AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 14-25-125 AND 14-25-155, BOTH RELATING TO THE COMPOSITION OF MUNICIPAL COURT JURY LISTS, BOTH SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE JURY LIST TO BE USED BY THE MUNICIPALITY IS THE LIST PREPARED BY THE JURY COMMISSIONERS FROM THE LATEST OFFICIAL LIST PROVIDED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 4400 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Harrison, Cato, Cooper, Walker, Witherspoon, Merrill, Sandifer, Haley, Young, Erickson, Littlejohn, Simrill, Bowen, Crawford, Barfield, Cotty, Taylor, Spires, Davenport, E.H. Pitts, Frye, Lowe, Shoopman, Hardwick, Bingham, Skelton, Clemmons, Thompson, Bedingfield, Bannister, Mahaffey, Herbkersman, J.R. Smith, Haskins, Huggins, Hutson, Leach, Toole, Viers, Brady, Dantzler, Delleney, Gambrell, Hamilton, Kelly, Rice, Scarborough, G.M. Smith, G.R. Smith, Talley, Umphlett, Duncan, Owens, Mulvaney, White, Loftis and Edge: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 TO CHAPTER 11 OF TITLE 8, RELATING TO ILLEGAL ALIENS AND PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SO AS TO REQUIRE A PUBLIC EMPLOYER AND A CONTRACTOR DOING BUSINESS WITH A PUBLIC EMPLOYER TO REGISTER AND PARTICIPATE IN THE FEDERAL WORK AUTHORIZATION PROGRAM TO VERIFY THE LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES OF NEW EMPLOYEES, WITH ALTERNATIVE MEASURES TO BE FOLLOWED BY A CONTRACTOR, TO DESCRIBE COMPLIANCE, TO PROHIBIT LOCAL LAWS FROM LIMITING ENFORCEMENT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR FORMS, REGULATIONS, AND RULES; BY ADDING SECTION 23-52-10 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE APPROPRIATE OFFICIAL UNDERTAKE TO DETERMINE THE LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES OF A PERSON CHARGED WITH A CRIMINAL OFFENSE AND CONFINED IN A JAIL AND TO PROVIDE THE PROCESS OF VERIFICATION AND REPORTING, AS WELL AS FOR RECOUPING EXPENSES OF THE CONFINEMENT; BY ADDING CHAPTER 91 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO ENACT THE "REGISTRATION OF IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE ACT", PRESCRIBING THE ACTS THAT MAY BE PERFORMED BY AN IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE SERVICE, REQUIRING A PERSON PERFORMING THOSE ACTS TO BE LICENSED, REQUIRING THE POSTING OF CERTAIN CONSPICUOUS DISCLAIMERS, PROHIBITING THE PERFORMANCE OF CERTAIN ACTS, EXEMPTING CERTAIN PERSONS FROM THESE RESTRICTIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR CIVIL AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 5 OF TITLE 43 SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL STATE AND LOCAL AGENCIES PROVIDING PUBLIC BENEFITS VERIFY THE LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES OF A NATURAL PERSON EIGHTEEN YEARS OLD OR OLDER WHO APPLIES FOR STATE OR LOCAL BENEFITS OR FEDERAL BENEFITS ADMINISTERED BY THE STATE, PROVIDING EXCEPTIONS, PROVIDING FOR AN AFFIDAVIT OF ELIGIBILITY AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR A FALSE AND FRAUDULENT AFFIDAVIT, FOR RESTITUTION OF IMPROPERLY RECEIVED BENEFITS, FOR A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION AND JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY; BY ADDING SECTION 6-1-170 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE FROM LIMITING OR INCREASING THE POWER OF LOCAL OFFICIALS TO ENFORCE STATE IMMIGRATION LAWS; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3595 SO AS TO PROHIBIT ANY WAGES OR REMUNERATION FOR LABOR SERVICES PAID TO AN INDIVIDUAL OF SIX HUNDRED DOLLARS OR MORE A YEAR FROM BEING CLAIMED AS A DEDUCTIBLE BUSINESS EXPENSE FOR STATE INCOME TAX PURPOSES UNLESS THE INDIVIDUAL IS AN AUTHORIZED EMPLOYEE, TO PROVIDE FOR EXEMPTIONS, TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PRESCRIBE FORMS AND PROMULGATE REGULATIONS TO EFFECTUATE THIS SECTION, AND TO REQUIRE THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION TO SEND WRITTEN NOTICE OF THIS PROVISION TO ALL EMPLOYERS IN THIS STATE; BY ADDING SECTION 12-8-610 SO AS TO REQUIRE TAX WITHHOLDING AGENTS FOR EMPLOYERS TO WITHHOLD STATE INCOME TAX AT THE RATE OF SIX PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT OF COMPENSATION PAID TO AN INDIVIDUAL IF THE INDIVIDUAL HAS FAILED TO PROVIDE A TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER, FAILED TO PROVIDE A CORRECT TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER, OR PROVIDED A TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ISSUED FOR NONRESIDENTS, TO PROVIDE THAT WITHHOLDING AGENTS WHO FAIL TO FOLLOW THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION ARE LIABLE FOR THE TAX, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS FROM LIABILITY FOR WITHHOLDING AGENTS IF THE EMPLOYEE PROVIDES A FACIALLY CORRECT TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER THAT THE WITHHOLDING AGENT DOES NOT KNOW WAS FALSE OR INCORRECT, AND TO REQUIRE THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION TO SEND NOTICE OF THIS PROVISION TO ALL EMPLOYERS; BY ADDING SECTION 16-9-460 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS A FELONY FOR ANY PERSON TO TRANSPORT, MOVE, OR ATTEMPT TO TRANSPORT WITHIN THE STATE ANY PERSON KNOWINGLY OR IN RECKLESS DISREGARD TO THE FACT THAT THE PERSON HAS COME TO, ENTERED INTO, OR REMAINED IN THE UNITED STATES IN VIOLATION OF THE LAW, IN FURTHERANCE OF THE PERSON'S ILLEGAL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES, OR TO CONCEAL, HARBOR, OR SHELTER FROM DETECTION A PERSON ILLEGALLY IN THE UNITED STATES IN FURTHERANCE OF THE PERSON'S ILLEGAL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR PENALTIES IF A PERSON IS CONVICTED; BY ADDING SECTION 16-13-525 SO AS TO REQUIRE A PERSON WHO USES FINANCIAL IDENTITY FRAUD INVOLVING THE CREATION OF DOCUMENTS PURPORTING TO AUTHORIZE EMPLOYMENT IN THE UNITED STATES TO DISGORGE ANY BENEFIT HE RECEIVES AND TO PROVIDE FOR CRIMINAL PENALTIES AND INDIVIDUAL CIVIL REMEDIES; BY ADDING SECTION 16-23-530 SO AS TO MAKE IT A CRIME TO OWN, POSSESS, TRANSFER, MAKE, DISPOSE OF, RENT, BUY, OR OTHERWISE TRANSACT AN ACTIVITY INVOLVING A FIREARM IN THIS STATE IF THE PERSON IS NOT LAWFULLY PRESENT IN THIS STATE; BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-80 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE CHIEF OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION TO NEGOTIATE THE TERMS OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE STATE AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CONCERNING THE ENFORCEMENT OF FEDERAL IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS LAWS, DETENTIONS AND REMOVALS, AND INVESTIGATIONS IN THE STATE, TO AUTHORIZE THE DESIGNATION OF STATE AND LOCAL OFFICERS TO BE TRAINED PURSUANT TO THE MEMORANDUM, TO STIPULATE FUNDING FOR THE TRAINING, AND TO PROVIDE FOR CERTIFICATION OF TRAINING TO ENFORCE FEDERAL IMMIGRATION LAWS; BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-30 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION BY A PERSON WHO IS TERMINATED FOR THE PURPOSE OF BEING REPLACED BY A WORKER WHO IS NOT AUTHORIZED TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES; BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-430 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON WHO IS NOT LAWFULLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES FROM ATTENDING OR RECEIVING ANY BENEFIT OF RESIDENCE; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-31-40, RELATING TO THE STATE COMMISSION ON MINORITY AFFAIRS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A TOLL FREE TELEPHONE NUMBER, ELECTRONIC WEBSITE, AND TRACKING DATABASES FOR RECEIVING AND REPORTING VIOLATIONS OF LAWS OR REGULATIONS BY A NONUNITED STATES CITIZEN OR IMMIGRANT; BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-1630, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF THE STATE GRAND JURY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE OFFENSES OF FALSIFICATION OF DOCUMENTS, IDENTITY FRAUD, FRAUDULENT AFFIDAVITS, AND OTHER SPECIFIED ACTS UNDERTAKEN IN A FRAUDULENT ATTEMPT TO DEMONSTRATE LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 17-15-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DETERMINATION BY THE COURT OF RELEASE ON BAIL, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COURT SHALL CONSIDER IF THE ACCUSED IS AN ILLEGAL ALIEN AND IF THAT STATUS POSES A SUBSTANTIAL FLIGHT RISK.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 4713 (Word version) -- Rep. White: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 25-11-80, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO STATE VETERANS' CEMETERIES AND QUALIFICATIONS TO RECEIVE A PLOT IN A STATE VETERANS' CEMETERY, SO AS TO REDUCE FROM TWENTY YEARS TO EIGHT YEARS THE TIME A VETERAN MUST HAVE BEEN A RESIDENT OF THIS STATE IN ORDER TO MEET ONE OF THE QUALIFICATIONS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 5001 (Word version) -- Reps. Owens, Hiott, F.N. Smith, Cotty, Haley, Simrill, Merrill, Spires, M.A. Pitts, Skelton, E.H. Pitts, Bedingfield, Kirsh, Mitchell, Perry, D.C. Smith, J.R. Smith, Erickson, Crawford, Daning, Leach, Ballentine, Bowen, Brantley, Cato, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Dantzler, Duncan, Hamilton, Hardwick, Hosey, Jefferson, Kelly, Lowe, Mack, Moss, J.M. Neal, Rice, Scarborough, Shoopman, G.R. Smith, Taylor, Umphlett, Vick, Walker, White, Witherspoon and Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 16-25-125 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF TRESPASS UPON THE GROUNDS OR STRUCTURE OF A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTER AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 16-25-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A WARRANTLESS ARREST OR SEARCH WHEN A PERSON IS BELIEVED TO HAVE COMMITTED A CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENSE, SO AS TO CLARIFY A WARRANTLESS ARREST OR SEARCH MAY BE UNDERTAKEN BY LAW ENFORCEMENT WHEN THERE IS PROBABLE CAUSE TO BELIEVE A VIOLATION HAS OCCURRED.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

S. 1252 (Word version) -- Senators Leatherman and Peeler: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 2-75-30 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE MATCHING ENDOWMENT, TO PROVIDE THAT THE INTEREST EARNINGS IN THE FUND MAY BE USED AT THE RESEARCH CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE REVIEW BOARD'S DISCRETION FOR ADDITIONAL STATE AWARDS.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 28, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

S. 104 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Courson, Vaughn, Knotts and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 11, TITLE 60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ARCHIVES ACT, SO AS TO ADD ARTICLE 3 CREATING THE SOUTH CAROLINA CIVIL WAR SESQUICENTENNIAL ADVISORY BOARD.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 28, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

S. 311 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-2723 SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL GROUP CHILDCARE HOMES AND FAMILY CHILDCARE HOMES THAT DO NOT CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE TO OBTAIN STATEMENTS FROM EACH PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A CHILD ENROLLED IN THE CHILDCARE FACILITY INDICATING THAT THE PARENT HAS RECEIVED NOTICE FROM THE FACILITY THAT THE FACILITY DOES NOT CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE, TO REQUIRE A GROUP CHILDCARE HOME OR FAMILY CHILDCARE HOME WHOSE LIABILITY INSURANCE LAPSES OR IS CANCELED AND NOT REPLACED TO OBTAIN A STATEMENT FROM THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A CHILD ENROLLED IN THAT CHILDCARE FACILITY, TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO INFORM EACH GROUP CHILDCARE HOME AND FAMILY CHILDCARE HOME OF THIS REQUIREMENT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT COMPLIANCE WITH THIS SECTION IS A CONDITION OF LICENSURE.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 28, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

S. 950 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto and Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-53-630, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE POWERS OF THE DENMARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE AREA COMMISSION, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COMMISSION TO ENTER INTO GROUND LEASE AGREEMENTS WITH PRIVATE ENTITIES UPON APPROVAL BY THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 28, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

S. 1058 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, Courson, Lourie, Short, Sheheen and Ceips: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S TRUST FUND, SO AS TO ELIMINATE DUPLICATIVE DUTIES OF THE ORGANIZATION AND REVISE ITS GOVERNANCE BY RECONSTITUTING THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS A BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONSISTING OF SEVENTEEN MEMBERS, INCLUDING ELEVEN AT-LARGE MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR FROM NOMINEES MADE BY THE CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS PLUS ONE MEMBER FROM EACH OF THE STATE'S CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS, AND TO DELETE VARIOUS QUALIFICATIONS FOR SERVICE ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND TERM LIMITS ON SERVICE.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 28, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 4900 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Gambrell, Bowen, Mitchell, Hiott, J.R. Smith, Kelly, Brady, Walker, Bedingfield, Agnew, Barfield, Battle, Bowers, Clemmons, Gullick, Limehouse, Loftis, Lowe, Mahaffey, Moss, Owens, Pinson, Sandifer, D.C. Smith, Spires, Talley, Toole, White, Hardwick and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 51 TO TITLE 23 SO AS TO ENACT THE "REDUCED CIGARETTE IGNITION PROPENSITY STANDARDS AND FIREFIGHTER PROTECTION ACT", TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR TERMS CONTAINED IN THIS ACT, TO PROVIDE THAT CIGARETTES MAY NOT BE SOLD OR OFFERED FOR SALE IN THIS STATE UNLESS THEY HAVE BEEN TESTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH CERTAIN TEST METHODS, MET CERTAIN PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, RECEIVED CERTAIN CERTIFICATIONS, AND HAVE BEEN PROPERLY MARKED, TO SPECIFY THE TESTING METHODS AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS THAT MUST BE MET.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 28, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 4921 (Word version) -- Reps. Moss, M.A. Pitts, Lowe, Phillips and Pinson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 47-1-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN REGARD TO CRUELTY TO ANIMALS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "ANIMAL".
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

S. 1427 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR REYNOLDS WILLIAMS AS THE FIRST CHAIRMAN OF THE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS INVESTMENT COMMISSION FOR HIS OUTSTANDING ORGANIZATION, LEADERSHIP, AND SUCCESS IN DIVERSIFYING THE STATE'S PENSION INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1428 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR REVEREND KENNETH L. SMITH, SR. OF ORANGEBURG COUNTY FOR HIS DEDICATED SERVICE TO PINEVILLE AND ST. STEPHENS UNITED METHODIST CHURCHES.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1420 (Word version) -- Senators Hawkins and Ritchie: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE NEW SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 215 SECTION AROUND ROEBUCK THE "L. E. GABLE MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND TO ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "L. E. GABLE MEMORIAL HIGHWAY".

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1403 (Word version) -- Senators Sheheen and Malloy: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE BRIDGE THAT CROSSES THE LYNCHES RIVER WHICH FORMS THE BOUNDARY FOR CHESTERFIELD AND LANCASTER COUNTIES ALONG SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 9 THE "JUDGE PAUL M. BURCH BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS BRIDGE THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "JUDGE PAUL M. BURCH BRIDGE".

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1436 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING ACADEMIC MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL IN NORTH CHARLESTON FOR BEING SELECTED BY NEWSWEEK AS SEVENTH BEST HIGH SCHOOL IN THE COUNTRY.
Returned with concurrence.
Received as information.

S. 1437 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF RICHLAND COUNTY SHERIFF LEON LOTT AND TO DECLARE SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2008, AS "LEON LOTT DAY" IN HOPKINS, SOUTH CAROLINA.
Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

The following Bills 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. 4982 (Word version) -- Rep. Hayes: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR THE ANNUAL LEVY OF MILLAGE FOR SCHOOL PURPOSES IN DILLON COUNTY AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS ALLOCATION FOR SCHOOL PURPOSES.

By prior motion of Senator ELLIOTT

H. 4448 (Word version) -- Reps. Bales, Ballentine, Bingham, Brady, Cotty, Frye, Haley, Harrison, Hart, Howard, Huggins, McLeod, J.H. Neal, Ott, E.H. Pitts, Rutherford, Scott, Spires, J.E. Smith and Toole: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 55-11-330, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS OF THE RICHLAND-LEXINGTON AIRPORT COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHAIRMANSHIP MUST BE ROTATED AMONG THE THREE PUBLIC MEMBER ENTITIES REPRESENTED ON THE COMMISSION AND THAT THE FREQUENCY OF A MEMBER OF EACH ENTITY SERVING AS CHAIRMAN MUST BE BASED UPON THE PERCENTAGE THAT EACH PUBLIC BODY'S MEMBERSHIP ON THE COMMISSION IS TO THE TOTAL MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION.

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

H. 4554 (Word version) -- Reps. Cobb-Hunter and Bedingfield: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 40-57-245 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNING BODY OF A COUNTY OR MUNICIPALITY MAY NOT IMPOSE A LICENSE, OCCUPATION, OR PROFESSIONAL TAX OR FEE UPON REAL ESTATE LICENSEES, EXCEPT UPON THE BROKER-IN-CHARGE AT THE PLACE WHERE THE REAL ESTATE LICENSEE SHALL MAINTAIN A PRINCIPAL OR BRANCH OFFICE AND TO PROVIDE THAT A MUNICIPALITY MAY IMPOSE AN OCCUPATION, LICENSE, OR PROFESSIONAL TAX OR FEE UPON REAL ESTATE BROKERS-IN-CHARGE BASED UPON GROSS RECEIPTS ONLY FOR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS WITH RESPECT TO PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN ITS CORPORATE LIMITS, AND A COUNTY GOVERNING AUTHORITY MAY IMPOSE AN OCCUPATION, LICENSE, OR PROFESSIONAL TAX OR FEE UPON REAL ESTATE BROKERS-IN-CHARGE BASED UPON GROSS RECEIPTS ONLY FOR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS WITH RESPECT TO PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF THE COUNTY.

H. 3478 (Word version) -- Reps. Spires, Haley, Huggins, Bedingfield, F.N. Smith, Ballentine, Crawford, Frye, Harvin, Jefferson, Knight, Leach, Littlejohn, Mitchell, J.R. Smith, Stavrinakis, Toole, Whipper and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-1315, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO WAGE WITHHOLDING FOR THE COLLECTION AND ENFORCEMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT PAYMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FAMILY COURT SHALL ORDER WAGE WITHHOLDING UPON FINDING THAT A PERSON, WHO IS NOT REQUIRED TO PAY THROUGH WAGE WITHHOLDING OR THE FAMILY COURT, IS, OR HAS BEEN, IN ARREARS IN AN AMOUNT EQUAL TO THREE OR MORE MONTH'S SUPPORT OBLIGATION.

H. 4867 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Harrell, Haley and Viers: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-2-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF TERMS USED IN THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF ACCOUNTANTS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "ATTEST" AND "SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCY" AND TO DEFINE "HOME OFFICE" AND "PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS"; TO AMEND SECTION 40-2-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT TO BE LICENSED TO RENDER CERTAIN SERVICES AND TO USE CERTAIN TITLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT INDIVIDUALS AND FIRMS MAY ALSO RENDER THESE SERVICES AND USE CERTAIN TITLES IF CERTAIN QUALIFICATIONS ARE MET; TO AMEND SECTION 40-2-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCOUNTING FIRMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH AN OUT-OF-STATE FIRM MAY RENDER CERTAIN SERVICES WITHOUT HAVING A REGISTRATION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-2-245, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR AN INDIVIDUAL IN AN OUT-OF-STATE FIRM TO OBTAIN PRACTICE PRIVILEGES IN THIS STATE, SO AS TO REVISE AND FURTHER SPECIFY THESE REQUIREMENTS.

H. 4745 (Word version) -- Reps. Young, Mulvaney, Umphlett, Ballentine, Huggins, E.H. Pitts, Bedingfield, Haley, Lowe, Clemmons, Viers, Scarborough, Edge, Harrell, Cotty, Mitchell, Chalk, Hagood, Talley, Gullick, Miller, Harvin, Bingham, Witherspoon, Haskins, Thompson, Merrill, Sandifer, Brady, Weeks, Scott, Duncan, Cato, Cooper, Dantzler, G.M. Smith, Whipper, R. Brown, Mahaffey, Toole, Herbkersman, Simrill, Littlejohn, Loftis and Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 35 TO TITLE 6 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RESIDENTIAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ACT", TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY AND MUNICIPALITY MAY CREATE AN IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT COMPRISED OF NONCONTIGUOUS PARCELS OF LAND, TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY AND MUNICIPALITY MAY USE ASSESSMENTS TO FUND IMPROVEMENTS LOCATED OUTSIDE THE BOUNDARIES OF AN IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, AND TO ALLOW AN ASSESSMENT TO BE USED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF IMPROVEMENTS TO FUND CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND IMPROVEMENTS RELATED TO NEW DEVELOPMENT.

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

Senator MARTIN proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (JUD4745.002), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 4, by striking lines 1 through 4 and inserting therein the following:

/   to a life estate or greater, expressly excluding leaseholds, easements, equitable interests, inchoate rights, dower rights, and future interest, and who owns, at the date of the petition required by Section 6-35-118, at least an undivided one-tenth interest in a   /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 6, by striking lines 11 through 15 and inserting therein the following:

/   Section 6-35-90.   The owner may include within a proposed district improvements that have been constructed or are under construction at the time of the establishment of the district.

Section 6-35-95.   The owner or developer of the real property in a/

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 read the third time, passed and ordered returned to the House of Representatives with amendments.

Having voted on the prevailing side, Senator THOMAS moved to reconsider the vote whereby the Bill was given a third reading.

The motion was adopted and third reading was reconsidered.

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

H. 3975 (Word version) -- Reps. Delleney and Bowers: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ALLOW THE GOVERNING BODY OF A COUNTY BY ORDINANCE TO POSTPONE FOR ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR A COUNTYWIDE PROPERTY TAX EQUALIZATION AND REASSESSMENT PROGRAM OTHERWISE SCHEDULED FOR IMPLEMENTATION BEGINNING FOR PROPERTY TAX YEAR 2007.

H. 4339 (Word version) -- Reps. Cooper, Clyburn, Battle, Haskins, Harrison, Hosey, Cotty, Walker and Bales: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 9-10-35 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO BECOMES A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL GUARD AFTER JUNE 30, 1993, MAY ALSO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL NATIONAL GUARD RETIREMENT BENEFITS PROVIDED BY THE STATE NATIONAL GUARD RETIREMENT SYSTEM UNDER CHAPTER 10 OF TITLE 9 AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION APPLY TO NATIONAL GUARD PENSION BENEFITS PAYABLE ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2007.

H. 4340 (Word version) -- Reps. Cooper, Clyburn, Battle, Kirsh and Hosey: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 8-23-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, AND DUTIES OF THE DEFERRED COMPENSATION COMMISSION, SO AS TO ADD THE CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER OF THE RETIREMENT SYSTEM INVESTMENT COMMISSION AS AN EX OFFICIO MEMBER OF THE DEFERRED COMPENSATION COMMISSION.

H. 4743 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell, Davenport, Littlejohn, W.D. Smith, Allen, Anthony, Cato, Hardwick, Harrell, Hosey, Kennedy, Lowe, Mack, Miller, Phillips, F.N. Smith, Talley, Young, Knight and Hodges: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 31-6-30, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN REGARD TO THE TAX INCREMENT FINANCING ACT FOR MUNICIPALITIES AND TO AMEND SECTION 31-7-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN REGARD TO THE TAX INCREMENT FINANCING ACT FOR COUNTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERM "REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT" ALSO INCLUDES AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS WHERE ALL OR A PART OF NEW PROPERTY TAX REVENUES GENERATED IN THE TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT ARE USED TO PROVIDE OR SUPPORT PUBLICLY-OWNED AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN THE DISTRICT OR IS USED TO PROVIDE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS TO SUPPORT PRIVATELY-OWNED AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN THE DISTRICT; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 33 OF TITLE 6 OF THE 1976 CODE RELATING TO TAX INCREMENT FINANCING FOR COUNTIES.

Senator O'DELL explained the Bill.

H. 4773 (Word version) -- Reps. W.D. Smith, Walker, Talley, Mahaffey, Moss, Anthony, Kelly, Littlejohn, Mitchell and Phillips: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE SOUTH CAROLINA EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION TO EXPEND UP TO EIGHT MILLION DOLLARS OF THE FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE TO THE STATE UNDER SECTION 903 OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT, AS AMENDED, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ERECTING AND FURNISHING A BUILDING FOR USE BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY, FOR FURNISHINGS, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES AND EQUIPMENT FOR THE GAFFNEY AND UNION WORKFORCE CENTERS, EXPANDING THE LANCASTER WORKFORCE CENTER, IMPROVING THE SENECA WORKFORCE CENTER PARKING LOT AUTOMATING THE TRADE READJUSTMENT ALLOWANCES PAYMENT SYSTEM, DEVELOPING AN AUTOMATED DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE PAYMENT SYSTEM, PROVIDING COMPUTER AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES FOR EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING AND ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISIONS, AND PROVIDING ADMINISTRATIVE FUNDING FOR THE UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION PROGRAM.

S. 1426 (Word version) -- Senator Pinckney: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 784 OF 1954, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE BEAUFORT-JASPER COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY, SO AS TO REAFFIRM THE ACTION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN ESTABLISHING THE COMPOSITION OF THE AUTHORITY AND TO PROHIBIT THE COUNTIES OF BEAUFORT AND JASPER FROM CHANGING THE COMPOSITION OF THE AUTHORITY.

H. 4067 (Word version) - Rep. Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-24-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEED RECORDING FEE, SO AS TO EXEMPT A DEED TRANSFERRING REAL PROPERTY FROM A TRUST TO A TRUST DISTRIBUTEE UPON THE DEATH OF THE SETTLOR UPON CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

H. 3323 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrison and Cotty: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-19-265, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES' ACCEPTANCE OF ELECTRONICALLY FILED LIEN INFORMATION FOR NEWLY ACQUIRED VEHICLES, VEHICLES ALREADY TITLED, AND LIEN RELEASES, AND THE COLLECTION OF A TRANSACTION FEE FOR THE TRANSMISSION OR RETRIEVAL OF DATA FROM THE DEPARTMENT PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF THERE ARE ONE OR MORE LIENS OR ENCUMBRANCES ON A MOTOR VEHICLE OR MOBILE HOME, THE DEPARTMENT MAY ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMIT THE LIEN TO THE FIRST LIENHOLDER AND NOTIFY THE FIRST LIENHOLDER OF ANY ADDITIONAL LIENS, AND LIEN SATISFACTIONS, TO PROVIDE WHEN ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF LIENS AND LIEN SATISFACTIONS IS USED, A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE MAY BE ISSUED WHEN THE LAST LIEN IS SATISFIED AND A CLEAR CERTIFICATE IS ISSUED, TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN A MOTOR VEHICLE OR MOBILE HOME IS SUBJECT TO AN ELECTRONIC LIEN, ITS CERTIFICATE OF TITLE IS PHYSICALLY HELD BY THE LIENHOLDER, TO PROVIDE THAT A CERTIFIED COPY OF AN ELECTRONIC RECORD OF A LIEN IS ADMISSIBLE IN COURT AS EVIDENCE OF THE EXISTENCE OF A LIEN, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A TRANSACTION FEE MAY BE COLLECTED BY COMMERCIAL PARTIES AND LENDERS WHO TRANSMIT OR RETRIEVE DATA PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION.

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

The Committee on Transportation proposed the following amendment (3323R001.LKG), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, on page 2, by striking line 11 and inserting:

/   Department of Motor Vehicles shall transmit, electronically or by paper certificate, the lien     /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, on page 2, by striking line 41 and inserting:

/   to exceed a fee of five dollars for each transaction which must be/

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator VERDIN 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.

On motion of Senator PATTERSON, with unanimous consent, H. 3323 was ordered to receive a third reading on Friday, May 30, 2008.

H. 4847 (Word version) -- Reps. Cotty, Brady and J.E. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-5635, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE TOWING, STORAGE, AND DISPOSITION OF CERTAIN VEHICLES AND PERSONAL PROPERTY, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "OFFICER"; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-5810, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF TERMS REGARDING THE PROVISIONS THAT REGULATE THE DISPOSITION OF ABANDONED OR DERELICT MOTOR VEHICLES ON PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THESE DEFINITIONS APPLY TO THE SAME TERMS AS THEY APPEAR IN ARTICLE 39, CHAPTER 5 OF TITLE 56, TO REVISE THE DEFINITIONS OF THE TERMS "OFFICER" AND "DERELICT VEHICLE", AND TO DELETE A DUPLICATE TERM AND ITS DEFINITION; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-5850, RELATING TO THE PLACEMENT OF A COLORED TAG ON UNATTENDED VEHICLES AS NOTICE THAT IT MAY BE CONSIDERED TO BE ABANDONED, SO AS TO REVISE THE CONDITIONS UPON WHICH A COLORED TAG MAY BE PLACED UPON A VEHICLE, THE LEVEL OF NOTICE CONVEYED BY THE COLORED TAG, THE PERIOD FOR WHICH THE COLORED TAG AND NOTICE ARE VALID, AND TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN ADDITIONAL NOTICE IS REQUIRED; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-5880, RELATING TO THE RIGHT OF CERTAIN GOVERNMENTAL OFFICIALS TO ENTER PRIVATE PROPERTY TO ENFORCE THE PROVISIONS THAT REGULATE THE DISPOSAL OF ABANDONED VEHICLES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-5920, RELATING TO VEHICLES THAT ARE NOT SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS THAT REGULATE THE DISPOSAL OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VEHICLE HOUSED OR PROTECTED FROM THE ELEMENTS MUST BE KEPT WITHIN A CLOSED PERMANENT STRUCTURE TO BE EXEMPT FROM THESE PROVISIONS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-5950, RELATING TO PENALTIES THAT MUST BE IMPOSED ALSO UPON A PERSON WHO ABANDONS A VEHICLE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THESE PENALTIES MUST BE IMPOSED UPON A PERSON WHO FAILS TO ABATE A DERELICT VEHICLE WITHIN A CERTAIN TIME PERIOD.

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

Senator GROOMS proposed the following amendment (SWB\5585CM08), which was adopted:

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

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator GROOMS explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

H. 4355 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Kirsh, Bales, Lowe, E.H. Pitts, Cotty, Mahaffey, Battle and Crawford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 4-10-20, 4-10-350, 4-10-580, AND 4-37-30, ALL AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX, THE CAPITAL PROJECT SALES TAX, THE PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION SALES TAX, AND THE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE SALES TAX, SO AS TO EXEMPT FROM THESE TAXES UNPREPARED FOOD ITEMS ELIGIBLE FOR PURCHASE WITH UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOOD COUPONS AND MAKE THIS EXEMPTION APPLY PROSPECTIVELY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SALES AND USE TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW A COUNTY GOVERNING BOARD BY ORDINANCE TO EXTEND THE STATE SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR FOOD ITEMS TO A LOCALLY IMPOSED SALES AND USE TAX.

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 (4355R001.WHO), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   1.   Section 4-10-20 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 151 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 4-10-20.   A county, upon referendum approval, may levy a sales and use tax of one percent on the gross proceeds of sales within the county area which are subject to tax under Chapter 36 of Title 12 and the enforcement provisions of Chapter 54 of Title 12. The sale of items with a maximum tax levied in accordance with Section 12-36-2110 and Article 17 of Chapter 36 of Title 12 is exempt from the local sales and use tax. Upon a majority vote of the county's governing body and upon referendum approval, unprepared food items eligible for purchase with United States Department of Agriculture food coupons may be exempted from the tax imposed pursuant to this article. The adopted rate also applies to tangible personal property subject to the use tax in Section 12-36-1310. Taxpayers required to remit taxes under Section 12-36-1310 shall identify the county or municipality in the county area in which tangible personal property purchased at retail is stored, used, or consumed in this State. Utilities are required to report sales in the county or municipality in which consumption of the tangible personal property occurs. A taxpayer subject to the tax imposed by Section 12-36-920, who owns or manages rental units in more than one county or municipality, shall report separately in his sales tax return the total gross proceeds from business done in each county or municipality."

SECTION   2.   Section 4-10-350(B) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 138 of 1997, is amended to read:

"(B)   The tax authorized by this article is in addition to all other local sales and use taxes and applies to the gross proceeds of sales in the applicable area that is subject to the tax imposed by Chapter 36 of Title 12 and the enforcement provisions of Chapter 54 of Title 12. The gross proceeds of the sale of items subject to a maximum tax in Chapter 36 of Title 12 are exempt from the tax imposed by this article. Upon a majority vote of the county's governing body and upon referendum approval, unprepared food items eligible for purchase with United States Department of Agriculture food coupons may be exempted from the tax imposed pursuant to this article. The tax imposed by this article also applies to tangible personal property subject to the use tax in Article 13, Chapter 36 of Title 12."

SECTION   3.   Section 4-10-580(B) of the 1976 Code, as added by Section 99, Part II, Act 387 of 2000, is amended to read:

"(B)   The tax authorized by this article is in addition to all other local sales and use taxes and applies to the gross proceeds of sales in the applicable area that is subject to the tax imposed by Chapter 36 of Title 12 and the enforcement provisions of Chapter 54 of Title 12. The gross proceeds of the sale of items subject to a maximum tax in Chapter 36 of Title 12 are exempt from the tax imposed by this article. Upon a majority vote of the county's governing body and upon referendum approval, unprepared food items eligible for purchase with United States Department of Agriculture food coupons may be exempted from the tax imposed pursuant to this article. The tax imposed by this article also applies to tangible personal property subject to the use tax in Article 13, Chapter 36 of Title 12."

SECTION   4.   Section 4-37-30(A)(9) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 368 of 2000, is further amended to read:

"(9)   The tax authorized by this section is in addition to all other local sales and use taxes and applies to the gross proceeds of sales in the applicable jurisdiction which are subject to the tax imposed by Chapter 36 of Title 12 and the enforcement provisions of Chapter 54 of Title 12. The gross proceeds of the sale of items subject to a maximum tax in Chapter 36 of Title 12 are exempt from the tax imposed by this section. The gross proceeds of the sale of food lawfully purchased with Upon a majority vote of the county's governing body and upon referendum approval, unprepared food items eligible for purchase with United States Department of Agriculture food stamps coupons may be exempted are exempt from the tax imposed by this section. The tax imposed by this section also applies to tangible personal property subject to the use tax in Article 13, Chapter 36 of Title 12."

SECTION   5.   Section 12-36-2120(75) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 115 of 2007, is amended to read:

"(75)(a)   unprepared food that lawfully may be purchased with United States Department of Agriculture food coupons. Except as provided in subsection (b) of this item However, the exemption allowed by this item applies only to the state sales and use tax imposed pursuant to this chapter.

(b)   if a locally imposed sales and use tax administered by the South Carolina Department of Revenue currently applies to food items exempt from state sales and use tax pursuant to subitem (1) of this item, the governing body of the county imposing that local sales and use tax by ordinance may extend that state sales and use tax exemption to the local sales and use tax imposed in the county. The exemption ordinance takes effect on the first day of the third month following the month in which the county files a certified copy of the exemption ordinance with the director of the South Carolina Department of Revenue."

SECTION   6.   Section 4-10-330(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   Upon receipt of the ordinance, the county election commission must conduct a referendum on the question of imposing the sales and use tax in the area of the county that is to be subject to the tax. The referendum for this purpose must be held at the time of the general election unless the vote is to reimpose a tax in effect on or before June 1, 2002 2008, and in existence at the time of such vote, in which case the referendum may be held on a general election day or at a time the governing body of the county and the Department of Revenue determine necessary to permit the tax to be reinstated and continue without interruption. The choice of election times rests with the governing body of the county. However, a referendum to reimpose an existing tax as permitted above may only be held once whether or not the referendum is held on a general election day or at another time. Two weeks before the referendum the election commission must publish in a newspaper of general circulation the question that is to appear on the ballot, with the list of projects and the cost of the projects. If the proposed question includes the use of sales taxes to defray debt service on bonds issued to pay the costs of any project, the notice must include a statement indicating that principal amount of the bonds proposed to be issued for the purpose and, if the issuance of the bonds is to be approved as part of the referendum, stating that the referendum includes the authorization of the issuance of bonds in that amount. This notice is in lieu of any other notice otherwise required by law."

SECTION   7.   Section 4-10-330(A)(1) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 292 of 2004, is further amended to read:

"(A)   The sales and use tax authorized by this article is imposed by an enacting ordinance of the county governing body containing the ballot question formulated by the commission pursuant to Section 4-10-320(C), subject to referendum approval in the county. The ordinance must specify:

(1)   the purpose for which the proceeds of the tax are to be used, which may include projects located within or without, or both within and without, the boundaries of the local governmental entities, including the county, municipalities, and special purpose districts located in the county area, and may include the following types of projects:

(a)   highways, roads, streets, bridges, and public parking garages and related facilities;

(b)   courthouses, administration buildings, civic centers, hospitals, emergency medical facilities, police stations, fire stations, jails, correctional facilities, detention facilities, libraries, coliseums, or any combination of these projects;

(c)   cultural, recreational, or historic facilities, or any combination of these facilities;

(d)   water, sewer, or water and sewer projects;

(e)   flood control projects and storm water management facilities;

(f)   beach access and beach renourishment;

(g)   acquisition of interests in real property, including the purchase of development rights, for economic development, conservation, blight remediation, or military base protection;

(g)(h)   jointly operated projects of the county, a municipality, special purpose district, and school district, or any combination of those entities, for the projects delineated in subitems (a) through (f) (g) of this item; or

(h)(i)   any combination of the projects described in subitems (a) through (g) (h) of this item;"

SECTION   8.   Section 6-1-760 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 6-1-760.   Notwithstanding any provision of this article, any ordinance enacted by county or municipality prior to March 15, 1997, imposing an accommodations fee which does not exceed the three percent maximum cumulative rate prescribed in Section 6-1-540, is calculated upon a base consistent with Section 6-1-510(1), and the revenue from which is used for the purposes enumerated in Section 6-1-530, remains authorized and effective after the effective date of this section. and the enacting Any county or municipality is authorized to issue bonds, pursuant to Article X, Section 14(10) of the Constitution of this State, utilizing the procedures of Section 4-29-68, Section 6-17-10, et seq., or Section 6-21-10, et seq., for the purposes enumerated in Section 6-1-530, to pledge as security for such bonds and to retire such debt using bonds with the proceeds of such an accommodations fee ordinance accommodations fees imposed under Article 5 of this chapter, hospitality fees imposed under this chapter, state accommodations fees allocated pursuant to Section 6-4-10(1), (2), and (4), or any combination thereof, and the pledge of such other non-tax revenues as may be available for those purposes. Fees allocated pursuant to Section 6-4-10(3) must be allocated to a special fund and used only for advertising and promotion of tourism to develop and increase tourist attendance through the generation of publicity, and not used to pledge as security for bonds and to retire bonds."

SECTION   9.   Section 6-4-10(3) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(3)   Thirty percent of the balance must be allocated to a special fund and used only for advertising and promotion of tourism to develop and increase tourist attendance through the generation of publicity. To manage and direct the expenditure of these tourism promotion funds, the municipality or county shall select one or more organizations, such as a chamber of commerce, visitor and convention bureau, or regional tourism commission, which has an existing, ongoing tourist promotion program. If no organization exists, the municipality or county shall create an organization with the same membership standard in Section 6-4-25. To be eligible for selection the organization must be organized as a nonprofit organization and shall demonstrate to the municipality or county that it has an existing, ongoing tourism promotion program or that it can develop an effective tourism promotion program. Immediately upon an allocation to the special fund, a municipality or county shall distribute the tourism promotion funds to the organizations selected or created to receive them. Before the beginning of each fiscal year, an organization receiving funds from the accommodations tax from a municipality or county shall submit for approval a budget of planned expenditures. At the end of each fiscal year, an organization receiving funds shall render an accounting of the expenditure to the municipality or county which distributed them. Fees allocated pursuant to this subsection must not be used to pledge as security for bonds and to retire bonds."

SECTION   10.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor, but the amendments to Sections 4-10-20, 4-10-350(B), 4-10-580(B), and 4-37-30(A)(9) of the 1976 Code contained in this act apply with respect to local sales and use taxes imposed or reimposed on or after that date.         /

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. 4815 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Merrill, Thompson, Brady, Stavrinakis, Haley, Ballentine, Cato, Cooper, Delleney, Harrison, Limehouse, Sandifer, Scarborough, Shoopman, Taylor, Viers, Walker, Young, Mahaffey, Neilson, Bales, R. Brown, Herbkersman, Edge, Bingham, Simrill, Whipper, Bedingfield and Bowers: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 64 TO TITLE 12 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA MOTION PICTURE INCENTIVE ACT OF 2008", REVISING AND UPDATING TAX INCENTIVES FOR MOTION PICTURE PRODUCTIONS IN THIS STATE BY ADDING AND MODERNIZING DEFINITIONS, MAKING TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS, ELIMINATING THE REBATE OF STATE AND LOCAL SALES TAXES PROVIDED UNDER FORMER LAW, PROVIDING FOR THE CARRY FORWARD OF REBATE FUNDS TO AVOID MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS, CLARIFYING THE WAGE INCENTIVE AND RESIDENT HIRING BONUS, ESTABLISHING A FIVE-YEAR APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM, INCREASING THE NUMBER OF DAYS STATE PROPERTY MAY BE USED WITHOUT FEE FROM SEVEN TO TEN DAYS, AND PROVIDING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FILM CREDITS FOR THIS STATE; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 62 OF TITLE 12 RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA MOTION PICTURE INCENTIVE ACT.

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 (4815R001.HKL), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   1.   Section 1-30-25 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 1-30-25.   Effective on July 1, 1993, the The following agencies, boards, and commissions, including all of the allied, advisory, affiliated, or related entities as well as the employees, funds, property, and all contractual rights and obligations associated with any such agency, except for those subdivisions specifically included under another department, are hereby transferred to and incorporated in and shall must be administered as part of the Department of Commerce to be initially divided into divisions for Aeronautics, Advisory Coordinating Council for Economic Development, State Development, Public Railways, and Savannah Valley Development:

(A)   South Carolina Aeronautics Commission, formerly provided for at Section 55-5-10, et seq.;

(B)   Coordinating Council for Economic Development, formerly provided for at Section 41-45-30, et seq.;

(C)   Savannah Valley Authority, formerly provided for at Section 13-9-10, et seq.;

(D)   Department of Commerce, including the South Carolina Film Commission, except that the department must make reasonable rules and promulgate reasonable regulations to ensure that funds made available to film projects through its film commission are budgeted and spent so as to further the following objectives:

(1)   stimulation of economic activity to develop the potentialities of the State;

(2)   conservation, restoration, and development of the natural and physical, the human and social, and the economic and productive resources of the State;

(3)   promotion of a system of transportation for the State, through development and expansion of the highway, railroad, port, waterway, and airport systems;

(4)   promotion and correlation of state and local activity in planning public works projects;

(5)   promotion of public interest in the development of the State through cooperation with public agencies, private enterprises, and charitable and social institutions;

(6)   encouragement of industrial development, private business, commercial enterprise, agricultural production, transportation, and the utilization and investment of capital within the State;

(7)   assistance in the development of existing state and interstate trade, commerce, and markets for South Carolina goods and in the removal of barriers to the industrial, commercial, and agricultural development of the State;

(8)   assistance in ensuring stability in employment, increasing the opportunities for employment of the citizens of the State, devising ways and means to raise the living standards of the people of the State;

(9)   enhancement of the general welfare of the people; and

(10)   encouragement and consideration as appropriate so as to consider race, gender, and other demographic factors to ensure nondiscrimination, inclusion, and representation of all segments of the State to the greatest extent possible. Existing divisions or components of the Department of Commerce formerly a part of the State Development Board excluding the South Carolina Film Commission; and

(E)   South Carolina Public Railways Commission, formerly provided for at Section 58-19-10, et seq.

SECTION   2.   Section 1-30-80 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 1-30-80.   (A)   Effective on July 1, 1993, the The following agencies, boards, and commissions, including all of the allied, advisory, affiliated, or related entities as well as the employees, funds, property, and all contractual rights and obligations associated with any such agency, except for those subdivisions specifically included under another department, are hereby transferred to and incorporated in and shall must be administered as part of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism to include a Parks, Recreation and Tourism Division and Film Division.

Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, formerly provided for at Sections 51-1-10, 51-3-10, 51-7-10, 51-9-10 and 51-11-10, et seq.

(B)   Effective July 1, 2008, the South Carolina Film Commission of the Department of Commerce is transferred to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism and becomes a separate division of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

(2)   The South Carolina Film Commission as established in this section as a division of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism and transferred to it shall ensure that funds made available to film projects through the film commission are budgeted and spent so as to further the following objectives:

(a)   stimulation of economic activity to develop the potentialities of the State;

(b)   conservation, restoration, and development of the natural and physical, the human and social, and the economic and productive resources of the State;

(c)   promotion of a system of transportation for the State, through development and expansion of the highway, railroad, port, waterway, and airport systems;

(d)   promotion and correlation of state and local activity in planning public works projects;

(e)   promotion of public interest in the development of the State through cooperation with public agencies, private enterprises, and charitable and social institutions;

(f)   encouragement of industrial development, private business, commercial enterprise, agricultural production, transportation, and the utilization and investment of capital within the State;

(g)   assistance in the development of existing state and interstate trade, commerce, and markets for South Carolina goods and in the removal of barriers to the industrial, commercial, and agricultural development of the State;

(h)   assistance in ensuring stability in employment, increasing the opportunities for employment of the citizens of the State, devising ways and means to raise the living standards of the people of the State;

(i)     enhancement of the general welfare of the people; and

(j)     encouragement and consideration as appropriate so as to consider race, gender, and other demographic factors to ensure nondiscrimination, inclusion, and representation of all segments of the State to the greatest extent possible."

SECTION   3.   (A)   Where the provisions of this act transfer the South Carolina Film Commission from the Department of Commerce to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, the employees, authorized appropriations, and assets and liabilities of the South Carolina Film Commission are also transferred to and become part of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. All classified or unclassified personnel employed by the South Carolina Film Commission on the effective date of this act, either by contract or by employment at will, shall become employees of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, with the same compensation, classification, and grade level, as applicable. The Budget and Control Board shall cause all necessary actions to be taken to accomplish this transfer in accordance with state laws and regulations.

(B)   Regulations promulgated by the South Carolina Film Commission are continued and are considered to be promulgated by the Film Commission as a division of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

(C)   The Code Commissioner is directed to change or correct all references to the South Carolina Film Commission to reflect its transfer to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. References to the name of the South Carolina Film Commission in the 1976 Code or other provisions of law are considered to be and must be construed to mean appropriate references.

SECTION   4.   This act takes effect July 1, 2008.       /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator McGILL proposed the following amendment (4815R003.JYM), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   ___.   Chapter 62, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

Section 12-62-10.   This chapter may be cited as the 'South Carolina Motion Picture Incentive Act'.

Section 12-62-20.   For purposes of this chapter:

(1)   'Company' means a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or other business entity.

(2)   'Department' means the South Carolina Department of Commerce Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

(3)   'Motion picture' means a feature-length film, video, television series, or commercial made in whole or in part in South Carolina, and intended for national theatrical or television viewing or as a television pilot produced by a motion picture production company. The term 'motion picture' does not include the production of television coverage of news and athletic events or a production produced by a motion picture production company if records, as required by 18 U.S.C. 2257, are to be maintained by that motion picture production company with respect to any performer portrayed in that single media or multimedia program.

(4)   'Motion picture production company' means a company engaged in the business of producing motion pictures intended for a national theatrical release or for television viewing. 'Motion picture production company' does not mean or include a company owned, affiliated, or controlled, in whole or in part, by a company or person that is in default on a loan made by the State or a loan guaranteed by the State.

(5)   'Payroll' means salary, wages, or other compensation subject to South Carolina income tax withholdings.

(6)   "Secretary" 'Director' means the Secretary of the Department of Commerce Director of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, or his designee.

Section 12-62-30.   A motion picture production company that intends to expend in the aggregate two hundred fifty thousand dollars or more in connection with the filming or production of one or more motion pictures in the State of South Carolina within a consecutive twelve-month period, upon making application for, meeting the requirements of, and receiving written certification of that designation from the department as provided in this chapter, shall be relieved from the payment of state and local sales and use taxes administered and collected by the Department of Revenue on funds expended in South Carolina in connection with the filming or production of a motion picture or pictures. The production of television coverage of news and athletic events is specifically excluded from the provisions of this chapter.

Section 12-62-40.   (A)   A motion picture production company that intends to film all or parts of a motion picture in South Carolina and desires to be relieved from the payment of the state and local sales and use taxes, administered and collected by the Department of Revenue, as provided in this chapter shall provide an estimate of total expenditures expected to be made in South Carolina in connection with the filming or production of the motion picture. The estimate of expenditures must be filed with the department before the commencement of filming in South Carolina.

(B)   At the time the motion picture production company provides the estimate of expenditures to the department, it also shall designate a member or representative of the motion picture production company to work with the department and the Department of Revenue on reporting of expenditures and other information necessary to take advantage of the tax relief afforded by this chapter.

(C)(1)   An application for the tax relief provided by this chapter must be accepted only from those motion picture production companies that report anticipated expenditures in the State in the aggregate equal to or exceeding two hundred fifty thousand dollars in connection with the filming or production of one or more motion pictures in the State within a consecutive twelve-month period.

(2)   The application must be approved by the secretary director.

(3)   Once the application is approved by the secretary director, the Department of Revenue shall issue a sales and use tax exemption certificate to the motion picture production company as evidence of the exemption. The exemption is effective on the date the application is approved by the secretary director.

(D)   A motion picture production company that is approved and receives a sales and use tax exemption certificate but fails to expend two hundred fifty thousand dollars within a consecutive twelve-month period is liable for the sales and use taxes that would have been paid had the approval not been granted; except, that the motion picture production company must be given a sixty-day period in which to pay the sales and use taxes without incurring penalties. The sales and use taxes are considered due as of the date the tangible personal property was purchased in or brought into South Carolina for use, storage, or consumption.

(E)   Upon completion of the motion picture, the motion picture production company must return the sales and use tax exemption certificate to the Department of Revenue and submit a report to the department of the actual expenditures made in South Carolina in connection with the filming or production of the motion picture.

Section 12-62-50.   (A)(1)   The South Carolina Film Commission may rebate to a motion picture production company a portion of the South Carolina payroll of the employment of persons subject to South Carolina income tax withholdings in connection with production of a motion picture. The rebate may not exceed fifteen percent of the total aggregate South Carolina payroll for persons subject to South Carolina income tax withholdings employed in connection with the production when total production costs in South Carolina equal or exceed one million dollars during the taxable year. The rebates in total may not annually exceed ten million dollars and shall come from the state's general fund. For purposes of this section, 'total aggregate payroll' does not include the salary of an employee whose salary is equal to or greater than one million dollars for each motion picture.

(2)(a)   For purposes of this section, an employee is an individual directly involved in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina and who is an employee of a:

(i)     motion picture production company that is directly involved in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina; or

(ii)   personal service corporation retained by a motion picture production company to provide persons used directly in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina; or

(iii)   payroll services or loan out company that is retained by a motion picture production company to provide employees who work directly in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina.

(b)   For his wages to qualify for the rebate, the employee must be certified by the department as a qualifying employee and the employee must have had South Carolina income tax withholding withheld and remitted to the Department of Revenue by a company described in item (2)(a).

(3)   The rebate applies with respect to an employee described in subitem (a)(ii) or (iii) only if, before commencement of filming in South Carolina, the personal services corporation, payroll services company, or loan out company is approved and certified by the department, and makes an irrevocable assignment of its rebate to the motion picture production company that produced the motion picture. The assignment must be made on a form provided by the Department of Revenue, which must include a waiver of confidentiality pursuant to Section 12-54-240. Upon assignment, the rebate may be paid only to the motion picture production company.

(B)(1)   The rebate provided in subsection (A) is available to the motion picture production company at the end of all filming in South Carolina in connection with the motion picture. The motion picture production company producing the motion picture must apply to the department for a certificate of completion once filming in South Carolina is complete. The motion picture production company must provide the information the department considers necessary to determine if the one million dollar expenditure requirement has been met.

(2)   A motion picture production company may claim the rebate by filing a request for rebate with the department once the certificate of completion is obtained. The request for rebate must be filed by the last day of February of the year following the year in which the certificate of completion is obtained. To claim the rebate, the motion picture production company and all companies described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii) must be current with respect to all taxes due and owing the State at the time of filing the request for rebate. If the motion picture production company or a company described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii) is not current with respect to all taxes due and owing the State, the motion picture production company is permanently barred from claiming the rebate.

(3)   The motion picture production company must attach to its request for rebate a copy of the certificate of completion and a copy of all assignments of the rebate, if applicable.

(C)   A motion picture production company claiming a rebate pursuant to this section, and all companies described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii), must make payroll books and records available for inspection to the commission and the department at the times requested by the commission or the department. Each motion picture production company claiming the rebate, at the time of filing, must provide a report to both the commission and the department that includes the project's name, the name of each employee that worked on the motion picture, the social security number for each employee, the dates employed, the dates the employee worked on the motion picture, a job description for each employee, the total gross wages for each employee, the South Carolina taxable wages subject to withholding for each employee, the amount of rebate attributable to that employee, and other information considered necessary by the commission or the department. The report also must contain the total amount of withholding attributable to all employees that worked on the motion picture in South Carolina.

(D)   For purposes of this section, and as an exception to Section 12-54-240, a motion picture production company and a company described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii) agree that the commission and the department may share or provide information concerning the request for rebate and the certificate of completion among the respective taxpayers and the respective agencies.

Section 12-62-55.   At the time the motion picture production company is certified by the department, it may make, with the approval of the coordinating council, an irrevocable assignment of future payments attributable to the rebates made pursuant to Section 12-62-40 or 12-62-50 to a designated trustee. For purposes of this chapter, 'designated trustee' means the single financier or financial institution designated by the council to receive all assignments of payments made pursuant to this chapter and to the terms of an agreement entered into by the qualifying motion picture production company. If a qualifying motion picture production company elects to assign payments to the designated trustee, the election must be made on a form provided by the department, including a waiver of confidentiality pursuant to Section 12-54-240, and the payments may be paid only to the designated trustee. The qualifying motion picture production company must file an application for the assignment with the secretary director no later than thirty days after filming begins in South Carolina.

Section 12-62-60.   (A)(1)   An amount equal to twenty-six percent of the general fund portion of admissions tax collected by the State of South Carolina for the previous fiscal year must be funded annually by September first to the department for the exclusive use of the South Carolina Film Commission. The department may rebate to a motion picture production company up to fifteen percent of the expenditures made by the motion picture production company in the State if the motion picture production company has a minimum in-state expenditure of one million dollars. The distribution of rebates may not exceed the amount annually funded to the department for the South Carolina Film Commission from the admissions tax collected by the State.

(2)   This subsection does not apply to payroll paid for motion picture production employees subject to Section 12-62-50 or money paid to the companies described in Section 12-62-50(A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii). Unexpended funds from this source may be carried over to the next and succeeding fiscal years.

(B)   Up to seven percent of the amount provided to the department in subsection (A) may be used exclusively for marketing and special events.

(C)   The allocations to motion picture production companies contemplated by this chapter must be made by the Coordinating Council for Economic Development department. The Coordinating Council for Economic Development department may adopt rules and promulgate regulations for the application for and award of the rebate.

(D)   One percent of the general fund portion of admissions tax collected by the State of South Carolina must be funded to the department for the exclusive use of the South Carolina Film Commission for the promotion of collaborative production and educational efforts between institutions of higher learning in South Carolina and motion picture related entities. The department, in conjunction with the South Carolina Film Commission, shall adopt rules and promulgate regulations necessary to administer this section. Unexpended funds from this source may be carried over to the next and succeeding fiscal years.

(E)   The department shall report annually to the coordinating council Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee on the use of all funds pursuant to this section. The report is a public record pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, Chapter 4 of Title 30, and must be posted annually on the commission's website by January first.

Section 12-62-70.   (A)(1)   Upon a determination by the Director of the Office of General Services Division of the South Carolina Budget and Control Board of the underutilization of state property by a state agency, the department may negotiate below-market rates for temporary use, no more than twelve months, of space for the underutilized property. The negotiations and temporary use are exempt from the provisions of the State Consolidated Procurement Code. The motion picture production company shall reimburse costs at normal and customary rates incurred by the state agency to the state agency, including costs required to repair any damage caused by the motion picture production company to real or personal property of the State.

(2)   The state agency or local political subdivision that owns the property determined to be underutilized may appeal that determination of underutilization to the Budget and Control Board.

(B)   The State or its political subdivisions may not charge a location or facility fee for properties they own if the properties are used for seven or fewer days as a location or facility in the production of a motion picture. A property may be used for a total of only twenty-one days without location or facility fees in a calendar year. The motion picture production company may be on site no longer than seven days within a thirty-day period without a location or facility fee charge. State-owned or political subdivision-owned properties may recoup all costs they expend on behalf and at the direction of the motion picture production company. State-owned or political subdivision- owned properties also may recoup a location or facility fee, after the first seven days, not to exceed two thousand five hundred dollars a day. State- owned or political subdivision-owned properties also may recoup costs required to repair damage caused by the motion picture production company to real or personal property of the state agency or political subdivision. The motion picture production company shall reimburse all costs, at the property's normal and customary rates, to the state agency or political subdivisions incurring the costs within twenty-one calendar days of completion of production activities on site. The motion picture production company may use the publicly-owned property only on the days agreed to and approved by the state agency or political subdivision.

Section 12-62-80.   The department may form a South Carolina Film Foundation to solicit donations for the recruitment of motion pictures in furtherance of the purposes of this chapter.

Section 12-62-90.   The end credit roll of a motion picture that utilizes a South Carolina tax credit or rebate must recognize the State of South Carolina with the following statement: 'Filmed in South Carolina pursuant to the South Carolina Motion Picture Incentive Act', except that the State of South Carolina reserves the right to refuse the use of South Carolina's name in the credits of a motion picture filmed or produced in the State.

Section 12-62-100.   To the extent not already provided, the department may adopt rules and promulgate regulations to carry out the intent and purposes of this chapter."         /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator McGILL explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

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 BY A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION WHICH IS NOT USED FOR THE ORGANIZATION'S MEETINGS OR THE ORGANIZATION'S TAX EXEMPT PURPOSES BUT WHICH IS HELD FOR FUTURE USE BY THE ORGANIZATION IN PURSUIT OF ITS EXEMPT PURPOSES OR WHICH IS HELD BY THE ORGANIZATION FOR INVESTMENT IN PURSUIT OF THE ORGANIZATION'S EXEMPT PURPOSES IF THIS REAL PROPERTY WHILE HELD IS NOT RENTED OR LEASED FOR A PURPOSE UNRELATED TO THE ORGANIZATION'S EXEMPT PURPOSES AND THE USE OF THE REAL PROPERTY DOES NOT INURE TO THE BENEFIT OF ANY PRIVATE STOCKHOLDER OR INDIVIDUAL.

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 (3008R002.RWH):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by deleting SECTIONS 2 through 7.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HAYES 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.

At 12:31 P.M., on motion of Senator PEELER, the Senate receded from business until 1:30 P.M.

The Senate reassembled at 1:41 P.M. and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

H. 3715 (Word version) -- Reps. Talley, Duncan, Mahaffey, Clemmons, Shoopman, Toole and G.R. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-750 SO AS TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS FOR PURPOSES OF THE SECTION AND TO PROVIDE AN ENHANCED PENALTY FOR PERSONS AFFILIATED WITH A SCHOOL IN AN OFFICIAL CAPACITY WHO COMMIT CERTAIN DELINEATED CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT, EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, OR KIDNAPPING OFFENSES AGAINST A STUDENT.

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

Senator SHORT asked unanimous consent to make a motion to take up further amendments pursuant to the provisions of Rule 26B.

There was no objection.

Senator SHORT proposed the following amendment (MS\7681AHB08):

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

/ SECTION   ___.   Article 7, Chapter 3, Title 16 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section   16-3-655.5.   A person is guilty of sexual conduct between minors if the person is eighteen years of age and engages in consensual sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, or anal intercourse with a younger person who is at least fourteen years of age but less than sixteen years of age. A person convicted of a violation of this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than thirty days. A person convicted of a violation of this section is not subject to the provisions of Title 23, Chapter 3, Article 7." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SHORT explained the amendment.

Senator MASSEY argued contra to the adoption of the amendment.

Senator SHEHEEN objected to further consideration.

H. 4499 (Word version) -- Rep. Kirsh: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-60-2545, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE AWARDING OF REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES IF A TAXPAYER PREVAILS IN THE ASSESSOR'S DENIAL OF AGRICULTURAL USE VALUE OF REAL PROPERTY AND A FINDING BY THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT THAT THE ASSESSOR'S ACTION WAS UNREASONABLE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THIS PROVISION APPLIES TO BOTH THE DENIAL OF AN APPLICATION FOR AGRICULTURAL USE VALUE AND AN ACTION BY THE ASSESSOR TO REMOVE REAL PROPERTY FROM THAT STATUS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE PAYMENT OF EXPENSES PLUS ATTORNEY'S FEES, TO PROVIDE FOR THIS REIMBURSEMENT OF ATTORNEY'S FEES AND EXPENSES AFTER THE TAXPAYER PREVAILS IN ANY FINAL APPEAL OF THE CONTESTED CASE, AND TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIRED FINDING THAT THE ASSESSOR'S DECISION WAS NOT REASONABLE.

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

H. 4747 (Word version) -- Rep. Harrison: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING TITLE 63 ENTITLED "SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S CODE" SO AS TO TRANSFER PROVISIONS FROM CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20 TO TITLE 63, TO INCLUDE THE STATE POLICY ON CHILDREN, FAMILY COURT AND FAMILY COURT JUDGES, LEGAL STATUS OF CHILDREN, CHILD PROTECTION AND PERMANENCY, ADOPTIONS, CHILDREN'S SERVICE AGENCIES, CHILDCARE FACILITIES, CUSTODY AND VISITATION, PATERNITY AND CHILD SUPPORT, AND JUVENILE JUSTICE; TO ADD ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 20, RELATING TO DIVORCE, SO AS TO TRANSFER THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 6, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, RELATING TO EQUITABLE APPORTIONMENT OF PROPERTY, TO THIS ARTICLE; TO ADD ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 43, RELATING TO PUBLIC AID TO CHILDREN, SO AS TO TRANSFER THE PROVISIONS OF SUBARTICLE 7, ARTICLE 13, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, RELATING TO PUBLIC AID, TO THIS ARTICLE; TO ADD SECTION 44-53-378 SO AS TO TRANSFER THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 20-7-105, WHICH CREATES A CRIMINAL OFFENSE FOR EXPOSING A CHILD TO METHAMPHETAMINES, TO THIS SECTION; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, RELATING TO THE CHILDREN'S CODE; TO REPEAL SECTION 43-5-585, RELATING TO REPORTING CHILD SUPPORT ARREARAGES TO CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES, WHICH WAS TRANSFERRED TO ARTICLE 21, CHAPTER 17, TITLE 63; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 43-5-595, 43-5-596, AND 43-5-597, RELATING TO CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT THROUGH FINANCIAL INSTITUTION DATA MATCHES, WHICH WERE TRANSFERRED TO ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 17, TITLE 63.

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

H. 3094 (Word version) -- Reps. Brady, Haskins, Cotty, Mahaffey, Funderburk, Viers, Erickson, Hutson, Clemmons, Mulvaney, Harvin and Bedingfield: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-535 SO AS TO LIMIT THE LOCATIONS IN WHICH A SEX OFFENDER MAY RESIDE AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A PERSON WHO VIOLATES THIS PROVISION.

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

Senator HUTTO proposed the following Amendment P-2 (JUD3094.005), which was adopted:

Amend the committee report, as and if amended, page [3094-2], by striking lines 1-11 and inserting:

/   (B)   It is unlawful for a sex offender who has been convicted of any of the following offenses to reside within one thousand feet of a school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, or public playground:

(1)   criminal sexual conduct with a minor, first degree;

(2)   criminal sexual conduct with a minor, second degree;

(3)   assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct with a minor; or

(4)   kidnapping a person under eighteen years of age.     /

Amend the committee report further, as and if amended, page [3094-2], by striking lines 24-30 and inserting:

/     (4)   resides in a jail, prison, detention facility, group home for persons under the age of twenty-one licensed by the Department of Social Services, residential treatment facility for persons under the age of twenty-one licensed by the Department of Health and Environmental Control, or other holding facility, including a mental health facility; or

(5)   resides in a homeless shelter for no more than one year, a group home for persons under the age of twenty-one licensed by the Department of Social Services, or a residential treatment facility for persons under the age of twenty-one licensed by the Department of Health and Environmental Control, and the site was purchased by the organization prior to the effective date of this act.     /
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD3094.001), which was adopted:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Article 7, Chapter 3, Title 23 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 23-3-535.   (A)   As contained in this section:

(1)   'Children's recreational facility' means a facility owned and operated by a city, county, or special purpose district used for the purpose of recreational activity for children under the age of eighteen.

(2)   'Daycare center' means an arrangement where, at any one time, there are three or more preschool-age children, or nine or more school-age children receiving child care.

(3)   'School' does not include a home school or an institution of higher education.

(4)   'Within one thousand feet' means a measurement made in a straight line, without regard to intervening structures or objects, from the nearest portion of the property on which the sex offender resides to the nearest property line of the premises of a school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, or public playground, whichever is closer.

(B)   It is unlawful for a sex offender who has been convicted of any of the following offenses to reside within one thousand feet of a school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, or public playground:

(1)   criminal sexual conduct with a minor, first degree;

(2)   criminal sexual conduct with a minor, second degree;

(3)   assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct with a minor;

(4)   committing or attempting a lewd act upon a child under sixteen; or

(5)   kidnapping a person under eighteen years of age.

(C)   This section does not apply to a sex offender who:

(1)   resided within one thousand feet of a school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, or public playground before the effective date of this act;

(2)   resided within one thousand feet of a school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, or public playground on property the sex offender owned before the sex offender was charged with any of the offenses enumerated in subsection (B);

(3)   resides within one thousand feet of a school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, or public playground as a result of the establishment of a new school, daycare center, children's recreational facility, park, or public playground;

(4)   resides in a jail, prison, detention facility, or holding facility, including a mental health facility, having physical custody of the sex offender; or

    (5)   resides for no more than one year in a homeless shelter or residential treatment facility operated by a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and the shelter or facility was established prior to the effective date of this act.

(D)   If upon registration of a sex offender, or at any other time, a local law enforcement agency determines that a sex offender is in violation of this section, the local law enforcement agency must, within thirty days, notify the sex offender of the violation, provide the sex offender with a list of areas in which the sex offender is not permitted to reside, and notify the sex offender that the sex offender has thirty days to vacate the residence. If the sex offender fails to vacate the residence within thirty days, the sex offender must be punished as follows:

(1)   for a first offense, the sex offender is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not more than thirty days, or fined not more than five hundred dollars, or both;

(2)   for a second offense, the sex offender is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not more than three years, or fined not more than one thousand dollars, or both;

(3)   for a third or subsequent offense, the sex offender is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned for not more than five years, or fined not more than five thousand dollars, or both.

(E)   A local government may not enact an ordinance that contains penalties that exceed or are less lenient than the penalties contained in this section.

(F)(1)   At the beginning of each school year, each school district must provide:

(a)   the names and addresses of every sex offender who resides within one thousand feet of a school bus stop within the school district to the parents or guardians of a student who boards or disembarks a school bus at a stop covered by this subsection; or

(b)   the hyperlink to the sex offender registry website on the school district's website for the purpose of gathering this information.

(2)   Local law enforcement agencies must check the school districts' websites to determine if each school district has complied with this subsection. If a hyperlink does not appear on a school district website, the local law enforcement agency must contact the school district to confirm that the school district has provided the parents or guardians with the names and addresses of every sex offender who resides within one thousand feet of a school bus stop within the school district. If the local law enforcement agency determines that this information has not been provided, the local law enforcement agency must inform the school district that it is in violation of this subsection. If the school district does not comply within thirty days after notice of its violation, the school district is subject to equitable injunctive relief and, if the plaintiff prevails, the district shall pay the plaintiff's attorney's fees and costs."

SECTION   2.   If any section, subsection, item, subitem, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or validity of the remaining portions of this act, the general assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, item, subitem, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, items, subitems, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words hereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.

SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor and ninety days after the State Law Enforcement Division has certified that sex offender mapping software has been implemented.   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator HUTTO proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (JUD3094.006), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 2, after line 14, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/   SECTION   ____.   Section 23-3-470(B)(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(B)(1)     A person convicted for a first offense is guilty of a misdemeanor and must may be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than thirty a mandatory period of ninety days, or both no part of which shall be suspended nor probation granted."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

H. 4350 (Word version) -- Rep. Chalk: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 29-5-26 SO AS TO DEFINE THE TERM "LANDSCAPE SERVICE" AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO PROVIDES A LANDSCAPE SERVICE ON A PARCEL OF REAL ESTATE BY VIRTUE OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE OWNER OF THE REAL ESTATE, AND TO WHOM A DEBT IS DUE FOR HIS PERFORMANCE OF THE LANDSCAPING SERVICE, HAS A MECHANICS' LIEN ON THE REAL ESTATE TO SECURE PAYMENT OF DEBT DUE TO HIM.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

The Committee on Labor, Commerce, and Industry proposed the following amendment (4350R001.WGR), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 1, by striking lines 29 through 35 and inserting:

/   "Section 29-5-26.   (A)   A person who provides a landscape service on a parcel of real estate by virtue of a written agreement with the owner of the real estate that exceeds fifteen thousand dollars, and to whom a debt is due for his performance of the landscaping service, has a mechanics' lien on the real estate to secure payment of debt due to him as provided by Section 29-5-10 and Section 29-5-20. The lien is on the land and a building, structure, or other improvement on the land./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RYBERG explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

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

At 2:48 P.M., Senator McCONNELL assumed the Chair.

H. 4950 (Word version) -- Rep. Cooper: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 12, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO TAXATION, SO AS TO MAKE MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES.

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

Senator ALEXANDER proposed the following Amendment P-1 (DKA\3930DW08), which was adopted:

Amend the report of the Committee on Finance, Section 12-64-40(C)(5)(a), SECTION 1, as and if amended, page [4950-6], by inserting after / Chapter 6 / on line 8 / and Chapter 11 /.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ALEXANDER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator HUTTO proposed the following Amendment No. P-2 (4950R006.CBH), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page [4950-6], by adding a new subsection at the end of Section 12-64-40 to read:

/     "( )   A taxpayer is not eligible for the credit if the taxpayer owned the otherwise eligible textile mill site when the site was operational and immediately prior to its abandonment.           /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (4950R001.WHO), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   1.   A.   Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

Section 12-64-10.   This chapter is known and may be cited as the 'South Carolina Textiles Communities Revitalization Act'.

Section 12-64-20.   (A)   The primary purpose of this chapter is to create an incentive for the rehabilitation, renovation, and redevelopment of abandoned textile mill sites located in South Carolina.

(B)   The abandonment of textile mills has resulted in the disruption of communities and increased the cost to local governments by requiring additional police and fire services due to excessive vacancies. Many abandoned textile mills pose safety concerns. A public and corporate purpose is served by restoring these textile mill sites to a productive asset for the communities and result in increased job opportunities.

(C)   There exists in many communities of this State abandoned textile mills. The stable economic and physical development of these textile mill sites is endangered by the presence of these abandoned textile mills as manifested by the progressive and advanced deterioration of these structures. As a result of the existence of these abandoned mills, there is an excessive and disproportionate expenditure of public funds, inadequate public and private investment, property not marketable, growth in delinquencies, and crime in the areas, together with an abnormal exodus of families and businesses, so that the decline of these areas impairs the value of private investments, threatens the sound growth and the tax base of taxing districts in these areas, and threatens the health, safety, morals, and welfare of the public. To remove and alleviate these adverse conditions, it is necessary to encourage private investment and restore and enhance the tax base of the taxing districts in the areas by the redevelopment of these abandoned textile mill sites.

Section 12-64-30.   For the purposes of this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:

(1)   'Abandoned' means that at least eighty percent of the textile mill has been closed continuously to business or otherwise not operational as a textile mill for a period of at least one year immediately preceding the date on which the taxpayer files a 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop'. For purposes of this item, a textile mill site that otherwise qualifies as abandoned may be subdivided into separate parcels, which parcels may be owned by the same taxpayer or different taxpayers, and each parcel must be deemed to be an eligible site for purposes of determining whether the parcel is considered to be abandoned.

(2)   'Ancillary uses' means uses related to the textile manufacturing, dying, or finishing operations on a textile mill site consisting of sales, distribution, storage, water runoff, wastewater treatment and detention, pollution control, personnel offices, security offices, employee parking, dining, and recreation areas, and internal roadways or driveways directly associated with such uses.

(3)   'Textile mill' means a facility or facilities that were used for textile manufacturing, dying, or finishing operations and for ancillary uses to those operations.

(4)   'Textile mill site' means the textile mill together with the land and other improvements on it which were used for textile manufacturing operations, ancillary uses, or located within 1,000 feet of the textile mill and its ancillary uses.

(5)   'Local taxing entities' means a county, municipality, school district, special purpose district, and other entity or district with the power to levy ad valorem property taxes against the textile mill site.

(6)   'Local taxing entity ratio' means that percentage computed by dividing the millage rate of each local taxing entity by the total millage rate for the textile mill site.

(7)   'Placed in service' means the date upon which the textile mill site is completed and ready for its intended use. If the textile mill site is completed and ready for use in phases, each phase is considered to be placed in service when it is completed and ready for its intended use.

(8)   'Redevelopment means the act of demolishing, rehabilitating, and/or renovating an existing textile mill site that has been abandoned for the purpose to which it was designed, and includes expenses incurred throughout the extent of these acts of demolition, renovation, or redevelopment of the textile mill site. New construction costs are allowed to the extent the costs are for construction located within the dimensions of the textile mill site, and the construction is equal to or less than the square footage of the textile mill site. For expenses associated with a textile mill site to qualify for the credit, the textile mill and buildings on the textile mill site must be redeveloped, renovated, and/or demolished.

(9)   'Notice of Intent to Redevelop' means, with respect to a textile mill site, a letter submitted by the taxpayer to the department or the municipality or county as specified in this chapter, indicating the taxpayer's intent to redevelop the textile mill site; the location of the textile mill site; the amount of acreage involved in the textile mill site; and, the estimated expenses to be incurred in connection with redevelopment of the textile mill site. The notice also must set forth information as to which buildings the taxpayer intends to demolish, redevelop, and/or renovate; as to which buildings the taxpayer intends to demolish; and, whether new construction is to be involved.

Section 12-64-40.   (A)   Subject to the terms and conditions of this chapter, a taxpayer who redevelops a textile mill site is eligible for either:

(1)   A credit against real property taxes levied by local taxing entities; or

(2)   A credit against income taxes imposed pursuant to Chapter 6 and Chapter 11 of Title 12, or corporate license fees pursuant to Chapter 20, Title 12; or

(3)   A credit against corporate license fees imposed pursuant to Chapter 20 of Title 12.

(B)   If the taxpayer elects to receive the credit pursuant to subsection (A)(1), the following provisions apply:

(1)   The taxpayer shall file a 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop' with the municipality, or the county if the textile mill site is located in an unincorporated area, in which the textile mill site is located before incurring its first rehabilitation expenses at the textile mill site. Failure to provide the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop' results in qualification of only those rehabilitation expenses incurred after notice is provided.

(2)   Once the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop' has been provided to the county or municipality, the municipality or the county shall first by resolution determine the eligibility of the textile mill site and the proposed redevelopment expenses for the credit. A proposed redevelopment of a textile mill site must be approved by a positive majority vote of the local governing body. For purposes of this subsection, 'positive majority vote' is as defined in Section 6-1-300(5). If the county or municipality determines that the textile mill site and the proposed rehabilitation expenses are eligible for the aforementioned credit(s), there must be a public hearing and the municipality or county shall approve the textile mill site for the credit by ordinance. Before approving a textile mill site for the credit, the municipality or county shall make a finding that the credit does not violate a covenant, representation, or warranty in any of its tax increment financing transactions or an outstanding general obligation bond issued by the county or municipality.

(3)(a)   The amount of the credit is equal to twenty-five percent of the actual redevelopment expenses made at the textile mill site times the local taxing entity ratio of each local taxing entity that has consented to the credit pursuant to item (4), if the actual redevelopment expenses incurred in rehabilitating the textile mill site are between eighty percent and one hundred twenty-five percent of the estimated redevelopment expenses set forth in the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelopment.' If the actual redevelopment expenses exceed one hundred twenty-five percent of the estimated expenses set forth in the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelopment,' the taxpayer qualifies for the credit based on one hundred twenty-five percent of the estimated expenses as opposed to the actual expenses it incurred in rehabilitating the textile mill site. If the actual redevelopment expenses are below eighty percent of the estimated redevelopment expenses, the credit is not allowed. The ordinance must provide for the credit to be taken as a credit against up to seventy-five percent of the real property taxes due on the textile mill site each year for up to eight years.

(b)   The local taxing entity ratio is set as of the time the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop' is filed and remains set for the entire period that the credit may be claimed by the taxpayer.

(4)   Not fewer than forty-five days before holding the public hearing required by subsection (B)(2), the governing body of the municipality or county shall give notice to all affected local taxing entities in which the textile mill site is located of its intention to grant a credit against real property taxes for the textile mill site and the amount of estimated credit proposed to be granted based on the estimated redevelopment expenses. If a local taxing entity does not file an objection to the tax credit with the municipality or county on or before the date of the public hearing, the local taxing entity is considered to have consented to the tax credit.

(5)   The credit against real property taxes may be claimed for the property tax year the rehabilitated textile mill site is first placed in service.

(C)   If the taxpayer elects to receive the credit pursuant to subsection (A)(2), the following provisions apply:

(1)   The taxpayer must file with the department a 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop' before incurring its first rehabilitation expenses at the textile mill site. Failure to provide the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop' results in qualification of only those rehabilitation expenses incurred after the notice is provided.

(2)   The amount of the credit is equal to twenty-five percent of the actual rehabilitation expenses made at the textile mill site if the actual redevelopment expenses incurred in rehabilitating the textile mill site are between eighty percent and one hundred twenty-five percent of the estimated redevelopment expenses set forth in the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop.' If the actual redevelopment expenses exceed one hundred twenty-five percent of the estimated expenses set forth in the 'Notice of Intent to Redevelop,' the taxpayer qualifies for the credit based on one hundred twenty-five percent of the estimated expenses as opposed to the actual expenses it incurred in rehabilitating the textile mill site. If the actual redevelopment expenses are below eighty percent of the estimated redevelopment expenses, the credit is not allowed.

(3)   The entire credit shall vest in the taxable year in which the application portion of the textile mill site is placed in service but must be taken in equal installments over a five-year period beginning with the tax year in which the rehabilitated textile mill site is placed in service. Any unused portion of a credit installment may be carried forward for the succeeding five years.

(4)   If the taxpayer qualifies for both the credit allowed by this subsection and the credit allowed pursuant to Section 12-6-3535, the taxpayer may claim both credits.

(5)   The credit allowed by this subsection is limited in use to fifty percent of either:

(a)   The taxpayer's income tax liability for the taxable year if the taxpayer claims the credit allowed by this section as a credit against income tax imposed pursuant to Chapter 6; or

(b)   The taxpayer's corporate license fees for the taxable year if the taxpayer claims the credit allowed by this section as a credit against license fees imposed pursuant to Chapter 20.

(6)(a)   If the taxpayer leases any portion of the textile mill site, the taxpayer may transfer any applicable remaining credit associated with the redevelopment expenses incurred with respect to that portion of the textile mill site to the lessee of the site. If a taxpayer sells the textile mill site, or part of the textile mill site, the taxpayer may transfer all, or part of the remaining credit, associated with the rehabilitation expenses incurred with respect to that part of the site to the purchaser of the applicable portion of the textile mill site.

(b)   To the extent that the taxpayer transfers the credit, the taxpayer must notify the department of the transfer in the manner the department prescribes.

(7)   To the extent that the taxpayer is a partnership or a limited liability company taxed as a partnership, the credit may be passed through to the partners or members and may be allocated among any of its partners or members including, without limitation, an allocation of the entire credit to one partner or member.

Section 12-64-50.   The provisions of Chapter 31, Title 6 also apply to this chapter; except that, the requirements of Section 6-31-40 do not apply."

B.   Chapter 32, Title 6 of the 1976 Code is repealed.

SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator GROOMS proposed the following amendment (4950R003.LKG), which was ruled out of order:

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

/   SECTION   ___.   A.   Article 25, Chapter 36, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-36-2647.   (A)   Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 59-21-1010(A), in Fiscal Year 2009-2010, an amount equal to ten million dollars from all sales, use, and casual excise tax revenues derived from the sale, use, or titling of a vehicle required to be licensed and registered by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, otherwise required to be credited as provided pursuant to Section 59-21-1010(A) and Section 12-36-2640(1), instead must be credited to the State Highway Fund established pursuant to Section 57-11-20. In each succeeding fiscal year, an additional thirty million dollars must be added to the cumulative total amount credited as provided pursuant to this subsection, until and after which all of the specified revenues must be so credited. The Department of Transportation monthly shall transfer to the State Highway Account of the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank a contribution from nonstate tax sources equal to the amount credited in that month to the State Highway Fund pursuant to this section. If the Department of Transportation has insufficient nonstate tax sources to make the contribution in any month, an amount of the tax revenues described in this section equal to the shortfall must be placed directly into the State Highway Account of the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank. Revenues transferred to the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank pursuant to this section must be used exclusively for highway, road, and bridge construction and improvements with fifty percent to be expended by the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank for projects approved by the bank board and fifty percent to be expended for projects on the South Carolina Department of Transportation priority list pursuant to Section 57-1-370 (B)(8) as approved by the South Carolina Department of Transportation Commission.

(B)   Of the amount transferred to State Highway Fund, up to one million dollars may be used to fund the Textile Community Infrastructure Revitalization Grant Program operated by the Department of Transportation. A local taxing entity can apply to the Secretary of Transportation for a grant from the program of up to one hundred thousand dollars to offset costs associated with providing transportation infrastructure needs for a redeveloped textile mill site that qualifies for a tax credit pursuant to Chapter 64, Title 12."

B.   Section 11-43-160(A)(1) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 100 of 1999, is further amended to read:

"(1)(a)   an annual contribution set by the board of an amount not to exceed revenues produced by one cent a gallon of the tax user fee on gasoline imposed pursuant to Section 12-28-310; and

(b)   an annual contribution as provided pursuant to Section 12-36-2647;"       /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator GROOMS explained the amendment.

Senator MARTIN raised a Point of Order that the amendment was out of order inasmuch as it was violative of Rule 24A.

Senator GROOMS spoke on the Point of Order.

Senator MARTIN spoke on the Point of Order.

Senator HUTTO spoke on the Point of Order.

Senator LEATHERMAN spoke on the Point of Order.

The PRESIDENT Pro Tempore sustained the Point of Order.

Amendment No. 2 was ruled out of order.

Senator GROOMS objected to further consideration of the Bill.

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

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 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES OF CONFERENCE AND FREE CONFERENCE.

H. 3623 (Word version) -- Rep. Thompson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 6-11-340, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTIONS 14-1-206, 14-1-207, AND 14-1-208, ALL AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MONETARY ASSESSMENTS LEVIED AGAINST FINES IMPOSED IN GENERAL SESSIONS, MAGISTRATES, AND MUNICIPAL COURTS, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY"; TO AMEND SECTION 23-11-110, RELATING TO CERTAIN QUALIFICATIONS THAT A SHERIFF MUST POSSESS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTION 23-23-70, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO SECTION 23-6-440 AND REPLACE IT WITH REFERENCES TO SECTION 23-23-60; TO AMEND SECTIONS 23-28-20, 23-28-60, AND 23-28-90, ALL RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 23-47-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO 911 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTION 24-5-320, RELATING TO THE JAIL PRE-SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND REPLACE THEM WITH REFERENCES TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 24-5-360, RELATING TO TRAINING OFFERED TO RESERVES WHO WISH TO BECOME FULL-TIME JAILERS OR DETENTION OFFICERS, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND REPLACE THEM WITH REFERENCES TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, AND TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2950, RELATING TO A PERSON WHO DRIVES A MOTOR VEHICLE HAVING GIVEN CONSENT TO SUBMIT TO CHEMICAL TESTS OF HIS BREATH, BLOOD, OR URINE FOR CERTAIN PURPOSES, SO AS TO DELETE A REFERENCE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND REPLACE IT WITH A REFERENCE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-18-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION, SO AS TO DELETE A REFERENCE TO THE LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL AND TO REPLACE IT WITH A REFERENCE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, with unanimous consent, the Report of the Committee of Conference was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator HUTTO spoke on the report.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, the Report of the Committee of Conference to H. 3623 was adopted as follows:

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:

H. 3623 (Word version) -- Rep. Thompson: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 6-11-340, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTIONS 14-1-206, 14-1-207, AND 14-1-208, ALL AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MONETARY ASSESSMENTS LEVIED AGAINST FINES IMPOSED IN GENERAL SESSIONS, MAGISTRATES, AND MUNICIPAL COURTS, SO AS TO DELETE THE TERM "DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY" AND REPLACE IT WITH THE TERM "SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY"; TO AMEND SECTION 23-11-110, RELATING TO CERTAIN QUALIFICATIONS THAT A SHERIFF MUST POSSESS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTION 23-23-70, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CERTIFICATES, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO SECTION 23-6-440 AND REPLACE IT WITH REFERENCES TO SECTION 23-23-60; TO AMEND SECTIONS 23-28-20, 23-28-60, AND 23-28-90, ALL RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 23-47-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO 911 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTION 24-5-320, RELATING TO THE JAIL PRE-SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND REPLACE THEM WITH REFERENCES TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 24-5-360, RELATING TO TRAINING OFFERED TO RESERVES WHO WISH TO BECOME FULL-TIME JAILERS OR DETENTION OFFICERS, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND REPLACE THEM WITH REFERENCES TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, AND TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2950, RELATING TO A PERSON WHO DRIVES A MOTOR VEHICLE HAVING GIVEN CONSENT TO SUBMIT TO CHEMICAL TESTS OF HIS BREATH, BLOOD, OR URINE FOR CERTAIN PURPOSES, SO AS TO DELETE A REFERENCE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND REPLACE IT WITH A REFERENCE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-18-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION, SO AS TO DELETE A REFERENCE TO THE LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL AND TO REPLACE IT WITH A REFERENCE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY.

Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Section 6-11-340(D) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 317 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"(D)   The public safety officers appointed and commissioned by a special purpose district must be law enforcement officers trained and certified pursuant to Article 9, Chapter 6 23, Title 23 in accordance with the training and certification standards established for officers performing similar duties. The expense of the training must be paid by the special purpose district by which that person is employed and the Criminal Justice Academy is authorized to establish and collect a fee for this training."

SECTION   2.   Section 14-1-206(C)(2) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 141 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"(2)   16.52 percent to the Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy program of training in the fields of law enforcement and criminal justice;"

SECTION   3.   Section 14-1-207(C)(2) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 145 of 1995, is further amended to read:

"(2)   22.49 percent to the Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy program of training in the fields of law enforcement and criminal justice;"

SECTION   4.   Section 14-1-208(C)(2) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 387 of 2000, is further amended to read:

"(2)   15.07 percent to the Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy program of training in the fields of law enforcement and criminal justice;"

SECTION   5.   Section 23-11-110(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   Every newly-elected sheriff in his first term is required to complete a training session to be determined pursuant to Title 23, Chapter 6 23 of the 1976 Code, to be conducted by the Criminal Justice Academy or an otherwise approved academy or as may be selected by the South Carolina Sheriffs' Association. This training must be completed during the first calendar year of the first term of the newly-elected sheriff's term of office. A newly-elected sheriff who is unable to attend this training course when offered because of emergency or extenuating circumstances, within one year from the date the disability or cause terminates, shall complete the standard basic course of instruction required of newly-elected sheriffs. A newly-elected sheriff who does not fulfill the obligations of this subsection is subject to suspension by the Governor until the sheriff completes the course of instruction."

SECTION   6.   Section 23-23-70 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 317 of 2006, is amended to read:

"Section 23-23-70.   (A)   A retired law enforcement officer with twenty years or more law enforcement experience who subsequently serves as a magistrate or municipal judge of this State and is or has been appointed chief of a municipal department by the governing body thereof must be issued a certificate as a law enforcement officer pursuant to Section 23-6-440 23-23-60 if that person completes the legal course for Class I certified officers taught by the Criminal Justice Academy. This provision applies to a retired law enforcement officer of this State with twenty years or more law enforcement experience whose certificate has lapsed due to a three-year break in service who subsequently is appointed chief of a municipal department by the governing body thereof.

(B)   A retired South Carolina law enforcement officer must be issued a certificate pursuant to Section 23-6-440 23-23-60, authorizing him to serve as a certified law enforcement officer, if the officer meets the following qualifications at the time of application:

(1)   the officer must have been retired pursuant to Section 9-11-60 or 9-11-70 for not more than ten years, except that the department may certify an officer who has been retired for more than ten years if the officer provides evidence satisfactory to the director that he has received law enforcement training and experience sufficient to qualify him to serve as a certified law enforcement officer;

(2)   within the previous three years, the officer must have completed a legal course and all other training programs for certified officers mandated by law and taught by the Criminal Justice Academy; and

(3)   the officer must have maintained a constable commission during his retirement, without interruption.

(C)   A retired federal law enforcement officer must be issued a certificate pursuant to Section 23-6-440 23-23-60, authorizing him to serve as a certified law enforcement officer, if the officer provides evidence satisfactory to the director that he has received law enforcement training and experience sufficient to qualify him to serve as a certified law enforcement officer."

SECTION   7.   Section 23-28-20(C)(3) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(3)   successfully complete a course of training specified pursuant to Title 23, Chapter 28 23 and endorsed by the chief who appoints them."

SECTION   8.   Section 23-47-20(C)(15) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 317 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"(15)   telecommunication operators or dispatchers trained and certified by the Law Enforcement Training Council (Criminal Justice Academy) South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. The Law Enforcement Training Council South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy shall promulgate regulations to provide for this training. Expense of the training must be paid by the local government by which that person is employed and the department is authorized to establish and collect a fee for this training;"

SECTION   9.   Section 24-5-320 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 24-5-320.   No reserve shall assume a jailer or detention officer function until he has completed successfully a jail pre-service training program approved by the Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy pursuant to Article 9, Chapter 6 23 of Title 23, and passed a comprehensive test prepared by the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and administered by the director of the local detention facility. Within one year of appointment, a reserve must successfully complete a jail operations training program promulgated by the Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy pursuant to Article 9, Chapter 6 23 of Title 23 in order to be eligible for continuation as a reserve. A reserve who serves more than one year must complete the same annual in-service training requirements as regular full-time jailers or detention officers. All training which is provided locally or regionally is subject to review by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Training Advisory Council and approval of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy."

SECTION   10.   Section 24-5-360 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 24-5-360.   A reserve who has been in active status for at least two years and desires to become a full-time jailer or detention officer, upon application of his director to the Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and upon completion of other existing requirements, may be accepted at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy for additional hours of training required by the Department of Public Safety South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy pursuant to Article 9, Chapter 6 23 of Title 23."

SECTION   11.   Section 40-18-30(A)(5) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 317 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"(5)   to provide, with the advice and consent of the Law Enforcement Training Council South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, for the curriculum, training, and certification of training officers, and to approve the curriculum utilized by licensees for the training of their security officers to ensure that security officers have the requisite knowledge and skills necessary to carry out their duties in the private security business. The fee for the training of security company training officers must be determined by the designated training facility and be retained by the facility to defray the costs of conducting the training; and"

SECTION   12.   Section 23-23-10(D), as added by Act 317 of 2006, is amended to read:

"(D)   Upon the signature of the Governor, all functions, duties, responsibilities, accounts, and authority statutorily exercised by the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy Division of the Department of Public Safety are transferred to and devolved upon the South Carolina Law Enforcement Training Council Criminal Justice Academy."

SECTION   13.   Section 23-23-20, as added by Act 317 of 2006, is amended to read:

"Section 23-23-20.   The There is hereby created the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy which shall provide facilities and training for all officers from state, county, and local law enforcement agencies and for other designated persons in the criminal justice system. Correctional officers and other personnel employed or appointed by the South Carolina Department of Corrections may be trained by the department. Administration of this academy must be vested in a director who is responsible for selection of instructors, course content, maintenance of physical facilities, recordkeeping, supervision of personnel, scheduling of classes, enforcement of minimum standards for certification, and other matters as may be agreed upon by the council. The director must be hired by and responsible to the council. Basic and advance training must be provided at the training facility."

SECTION   14.   Section 23-23-80 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 23-23-80.   The Director of the Criminal Justice Academy South Carolina Law Enforcement Training Council is authorized to:

(1)   receive and disburse funds, including those hereinafter provided in this chapter;

(2)   accept any donations, contributions, funds, grants, or gifts from private individuals, foundations, agencies, corporations, or the state or federal governments, for the purpose of carrying out the programs and objectives of this chapter;

(3)   consult and cooperate with counties, municipalities, agencies, or official bodies of this State or of other states, other governmental agencies, and with universities, colleges, junior colleges, and other institutions, concerning the development of police training schools, programs, or courses of instruction, selection, and training standards, or other pertinent matters relating to law enforcement;

(4)   publish or cause to be published manuals, information bulletins, newsletters, and other materials to achieve the objectives of this chapter;

(5)   make such regulations as may be necessary for the administration of this chapter, including the issuance of orders directing public law enforcement agencies to comply with this chapter and all regulations so promulgated;

(6)   certify and train qualified candidates and applicants for law enforcement officers and provide for suspension, revocation, or restriction of the certification, in accordance with regulations promulgated by the council;

(7)   require all public entities or agencies that employ or appoint law enforcement officers to provide records in the format prescribed by regulation of employment information of law enforcement officers;

(8)   provide by regulation for mandatory continued training of certified law enforcement officers, this training to be completed within each of the various counties requesting this training on a regional basis."

SECTION   15.   Section 23-3-540(P) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 346 of 2006, is amended to read:

"(P)   As used in this section, 'active electronic monitoring device' means a mechanism an all body worn device that is not removed from the person's body utilized by the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services in conjunction with a web-based computer system that actively monitors and identifies records a person's location at least once every minute twenty-four hours a day and that timely records and reports or records the person's presence near or within a crime scene or prohibited area or the person's departure from a specified geographic location. In addition, the device must be resistant or impervious to unintentional or wilful damages. The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy may offer training to officers of the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services regarding the utilization of active electronic monitoring devices. In areas of the State where cellular coverage requires the use of an alternate device, the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services may use an alternate device."

SECTION   16.   Section 23-3-430(F) and (G) of the 1976 Code are amended to read:

"(F)   If an offender receives a pardon for the offense for which he was required to register, the offender must re-register as provided by Section 23-3-460 and may not be removed from the registry except:

(1)   as provided by the provisions of subsection (E); or

(2)   if the pardon is based on a finding of not guilty specifically stated in the pardon.

(G)   If an offender files a petition for a writ of habeas corpus or a motion for a new trial pursuant to Rule 29(b), South Carolina Rules of Criminal Procedure, based on newly discovered evidence, the offender must re-register as provided by Section 23-3-460 and may not be removed from the registry except:

(1)   as provided by the provisions of subsection (E); or

(2)(a)   if the circuit court grants the offender's petition or motion and orders a new trial; and

(b)   a verdict of acquittal is returned at the new trial or entered with the state's consent."

SECTION   17.   Section 23-11-110(A)(5) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(5)   have:

(a)   obtained a high school diploma, its recognized equivalent in educational training as established by the State Department of Education, and have at least five years' experience as a certified law enforcement officer; or

(b)   obtained a two-year associate degree and three years' experience as a certified law enforcement officer; or

(c)   obtained a four-year baccalaureate degree and one year's experience as a certified law enforcement officer; or

(d)   served as a summary court judge for at least ten years.

For purposes of this section, a 'certified law enforcement officer' is a person who has been issued a certificate as a law enforcement officer pursuant to Section 23-6-400(D)(1) 23-23-10(E)(1)."

SECTION   18.   Section 16-3-655(B)(2) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 346 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"(2)   the actor engages in sexual battery with a victim who is at least fourteen years of age but who is less than sixteen years of age and the actor is in a position of familial, custodial, or official authority to coerce the victim to submit or is older than the victim. However, a person may not be convicted of a violation of the provisions of this item if he is eighteen years of age or less when he engages in illicit but consensual sexual conduct with another person who is at least fourteen years of age. In addition, mistake of age may be used as a defense."

SECTION   19.   Section 23-23-90 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 317 of 2006, is amended to read:

"Section 23-23-90.   An oral or written report, document, statement, or other communication that is written, made, or delivered concerning the requirements or administration of this chapter or regulations promulgated under pursuant to it must not be the subject of or basis for an action at law or in equity for slander or libel in any court of the State if the communication is between:

(1)   a law enforcement agency agencies, its their agents, employees, or representatives; and or

(2)   the council law enforcement agencies, its their agents, employees, or representatives and the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy or the Law Enforcement Training Council."

SECTION   20.   Section 23-3-540(M) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 346 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"(M)(1)   A person who completes his term of incarceration and the maximum term of probation, parole, or community supervision and who wilfully violates a term or condition of electronic monitoring, as ordered by the court or determined by the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be sentenced in accordance with the provisions of Section 23-3-545.

(2)   Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 24-21-290, information gathered by a probation agent pursuant to the provisions of Section 24-21-540 is admissible in a criminal prosecution."

SECTION   21.   The repeal or amendment by this act of any law, whether temporary or permanent or civil or criminal, does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities founded thereon, or alter, discharge, release or extinguish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under the repealed or amended law, unless the repealed or amended provision shall so expressly provide. After the effective date of this act, all laws repealed or amended by this act must be taken and treated as remaining in full force and effect for the purpose of sustaining any pending or vested right, civil action, special proceeding, criminal prosecution, or appeal existing as of the effective date of this act, and for the enforcement of rights, duties, penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities as they stood under the repealed or amended laws.

SECTION   22.   If any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this act is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid, such holding shall not affect the constitutionality or validity of the remaining portions of this act, the General Assembly hereby declaring that it would have passed this act, and each and every section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause, phrase, and word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses, phrases, or words hereof may be declared to be unconstitutional, invalid, or otherwise ineffective.

SECTION   23.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.   /

Amend title to conform.

/s/Sen. C. Bradley Hutto          /s/Rep. G. Murrell Smith, Jr.
/s/Sen. John D. Hawkins           /s/Rep. Michael D. Thompson
/s/Sen. Kevin L. Bryant           /s/Rep. Leonidas E. Stavrinakis
On Part of the Senate.                On Part of the House.

, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

H. 4662 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Harrell, Whitmire, Toole, Gullick, Spires, Hiott, Bannister, J.R. Smith, Loftis, Ballentine, Pinson, Cotty, Brady, Bedingfield, Hardwick, Edge, Herbkersman, Lowe, Crawford, Limehouse, Hamilton, G.R. Smith, Harrison, Duncan, Bowen, Huggins, Mahaffey, Erickson, Leach, Owens, Frye, Rice, Hutson, Bingham, Haskins, Littlejohn, Cato, Chalk, Clyburn, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Gambrell, Kelly, Lucas, Merrill, Moss, Neilson, E.H. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, Shoopman, Skelton, D.C. Smith, G.M. Smith, W.D. Smith, Talley, Taylor, Umphlett, Viers, White, Witherspoon, Young, Barfield, Knight, Miller, Battle, Perry, Bales, Phillips, J.M. Neal, R. Brown and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 18, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH SCHOOLS ARE ASSESSED AND ACCREDITED, TO PROVIDE FOR DESIGNATION TO SIGNIFY VARYING LEVELS OF SCHOOL ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, AND TO REVISE AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS REGARDING EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY.

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Report of the Committee of Free Conference was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator MARTIN spoke on the report.

On motion of Senator HAYES, Free Conference Powers were granted.

Whereupon, Senators HAYES, SHORT and SETZLER were appointed to the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

On motion of Senator HAYES, the Report of the Committee of Free Conference to H. 4662 was adopted as follows:

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:

H. 4662 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Harrell, Whitmire, Toole, Gullick, Spires, Hiott, Bannister, J.R. Smith, Loftis, Ballentine, Pinson, Cotty, Brady, Bedingfield, Hardwick, Edge, Herbkersman, Lowe, Crawford, Limehouse, Hamilton, G.R. Smith, Harrison, Duncan, Bowen, Huggins, Mahaffey, Erickson, Leach, Owens, Frye, Rice, Hutson, Bingham, Haskins, Littlejohn, Cato, Chalk, Clyburn, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Gambrell, Kelly, Lucas, Merrill, Moss, Neilson, E.H. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, Shoopman, Skelton, D.C. Smith, G.M. Smith, W.D. Smith, Talley, Taylor, Umphlett, Viers, White, Witherspoon, Young, Barfield, Knight, Miller, Battle, Perry, Bales, Phillips, J.M. Neal, R. Brown and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 18, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH SCHOOLS ARE ASSESSED AND ACCREDITED, TO PROVIDE FOR DESIGNATION TO SIGNIFY VARYING LEVELS OF SCHOOL ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, AND TO REVISE AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS REGARDING EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY.

Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:   Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/   SECTION   1.   Chapter 18, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

Section 59-18-100.   The General Assembly finds that South Carolinians have a commitment to public education and a conviction that high expectations for all students are vital components for improving academic achievement. It is the purpose of the General Assembly in this chapter to establish a performance based accountability system for public education which focuses on improving teaching and learning so that students are equipped with a strong academic foundation. Accountability, as defined by this chapter, means acceptance of the responsibility for improving student performance and taking actions to improve classroom practice and school performance by the Governor, the General Assembly, the State Department of Education, colleges and universities, local school boards, administrators, teachers, parents, students, and the community.

Section 59-18-110.   The system is to:

(1)   use academic achievement standards to push schools and students toward higher performance by aligning the state assessment to those standards and linking policies and criteria for performance standards, accreditation, reporting, school rewards, and targeted assistance;

(2)   provide an annual report card with a performance indicator system that is logical, reasonable, fair, challenging, and technically defensible, which furnishes clear and specific information about school and district academic performance and other performance to parents and the public;

(3)   require all districts to establish local accountability systems to stimulate quality teaching and learning practices and target assistance to low performing schools;

(4)   provide resources to strengthen the process of teaching and learning in the classroom to improve student performance and reduce gaps in performance;

(5)   support professional development as integral to improvement and to the actual work of teachers and school staff; and

(6)   expand the ability to evaluate the system and to conduct in-depth studies on implementation, efficiency, and the effectiveness of academic improvement efforts.

Section 59-18-120.   As used in this chapter:

(1)   "Oversight Committee" means the Education Oversight Committee established in Section 59-6-10.

(2)   "Standards based assessment" means an assessment where an individual's performance is compared to specific performance standards and not to the performance of other students.

(3)   "Disaggregated data" means data broken out for specific groups within the total student population, such as by race, gender, and family income level of poverty, limited English proficiency status, disability status, or other groups as required by federal statutes or regulations.

(4)   "Longitudinally matched student data" means examining the performance of a single student or a group of students by considering their test scores over time.

(5)   "Norm-referenced assessment" means assessments designed to compare student performance to a nationally representative sample of similar students known as the norm group.

(6)(5)   "Academic achievement standards" means statements of expectations for student learning.

(7)(6)   "Department" means the State Department of Education.

(8)(7)   "Absolute performance" means the rating a school will receive based on the percentage of students meeting standard on the state's standards based assessment.

(9)(8)   "Improvement performance" "Growth" means the rating a school will receive based on longitudinally matched student data comparing current performance to the previous year's for the purpose of determining student academic growth.

(10)(9)   "Objective and reliable statewide assessment" means assessments that yield consistent results and that measure the cognitive knowledge and skills specified in the state-approved academic standards and do not include questions relative to personal opinions, feelings, or attitudes and are not biased with regard to race, gender, or socioeconomic status. The assessments must include a writing assessment and multiple-choice questions designed to reflect a range of cognitive abilities beyond the knowledge level. Constructive Constructed response questions may be included as a component of the writing assessment.

(11)(10)   "Division of Accountability" means the special unit within the oversight committee established in Section 59-6-100.

(12)(11)   "Formative assessment" means assessments used within the school year to analyze general strengths and weaknesses in learning and instruction, to understand the performance of students individually and across achievement categories, to adapt instruction to meet students' needs, and to consider placement and planning for the next grade level. Data and performance from the formative assessments must not be used in the calculation of school or district ratings.

Section 59-18-300.   The State Board of Education is directed to adopt grade specific performance-oriented educational standards in the core academic areas of mathematics, English/language arts, social studies (history, government, economics, and geography), and science for kindergarten through twelfth grade and for grades nine through twelve adopt specific academic standards for benchmark high school credit courses in mathematics, English/language arts, social studies, and science. The standards are to promote the goals of providing every student with the competencies to:

(1)   read, view, and listen to complex information in the English language;

(2)   write and speak effectively in the English language;

(3)   solve problems by applying mathematics;

(4)   conduct research and communicate findings;

(5)   understand and apply scientific concepts;

(6)   obtain a working knowledge of world, United States, and South Carolina history, government, economics, and geography; and

(7)   use information to make decisions.
The standards must be reflective of the highest level of academic skills with the rigor necessary to improve the curriculum and instruction in South Carolina's schools so that students are encouraged to learn at unprecedented levels and must be reflective of the highest level of academic skills at each grade level.

Section 59-18-310.   (A)   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the State Board of Education, through the Department of Education, is required to develop or adopt a statewide assessment program to promote student learning and to measure student performance on state standards and:

(1)   identify areas in which students, schools, or school districts need additional support;

(2)   indicate the academic achievement for schools, districts, and the State;

(3)   satisfy federal reporting requirements; and

(4)   provide professional development to educators.
Assessments required to be developed or adopted pursuant to the provisions of this section or chapter must be objective and reliable.

(B)   The statewide assessment program in the four academic areas must include the subjects of English/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies in grades three through eight, as delineated in Section 59-18-320(B), to be first administered in 2009, an exit examination in English/language arts and mathematics, which is to be first administered in a student's second year of high school enrollment beginning with grade nine, and end-of-course tests for gateway courses awarded Carnegie units of credit in English/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Student performance targets must be established following the 2009 administration. The assessment program must be used for school and school district accountability purposes beginning with the 2008-2009 school year. The publication of the annual school and school district report card may be delayed for the 2008-2009 school year until no later than February 15, 2010. A student's score on an end-of-year assessment may not be the sole criterion for placing the student on academic probation, retaining the student in his current grade, or requiring the student to attend summer school. Beginning with the graduating class of 2010, students are required to pass a high school credit course in science and a course in United States history in which end-of-course examinations are administered to receive the state high school diploma.

(C)   To facilitate the reporting of strand level information and the reporting of student scores prior to the beginning of the next school year, beginning with the 2009 administration, multiple choice items must be administered as close to the end of the school year as possible and the writing assessment must be administered earlier in the school year.

(C)(D)   While assessment is called for in the specific areas mentioned above, this should not be construed as lessening the importance of foreign languages, visual and performing arts, health, physical education, and career or occupational programs.

(D)(E)   By March 31, 2007, the The State Board of Education shall create a statewide adoption list of formative assessments for grades one through nine aligned with the state content standards and satisfying in English/language arts and mathematics that satisfies professional measurement standards in accordance with criteria jointly determined by the Education Oversight Committee and the State Department of Education. The formative assessments must provide diagnostic information in a timely manner to all school districts for each student during the course of the school year. For use beginning with the 2007-08 2009-2010 school year, with funds appropriated by the General Assembly, and subject to appropriations by the General Assembly for the assessments, local districts must be allocated resources to select and administer formative assessments from the statewide adoption list to use to improve student performance in accordance with district improvement plans. However, if a local district already administers formative assessments, the district may continue to use the assessments if they meet the state standards and criteria pursuant to this subsection.

(E)   The State Board of Education shall adopt a developmentally appropriate formative reading assessment for use in first and second grades to be administered initially in the 2007-08 school year. The assessment must provide opportunities for periodic formative assessment during the school year, reports that are useful for informing classroom instruction, strand, or significant groupings of standards level information about individual students, and must be compatible with best practices in reading instruction and reading research. The State Department of Education shall provide appropriate and on-going professional development to support appropriate use of the assessment.

(F)   The State Department of Education shall provide on-going professional development in the development and use of classroom assessments, the use of formative assessments, and the use of the end-of-year state assessments so that teaching and learning activities are focused on student needs and lead to higher levels of student performance.

Section 59-18-320.   (A)   After the first statewide field test of the assessment program in each of the four academic areas, and after the field tests of the end of course assessments of benchmark high school credit courses, the Education Oversight Committee, established in Section 59-6-10, will review the state assessment program and the course assessments for alignment with the state standards, level of difficulty and validity, and for the ability to differentiate levels of achievement, and will make recommendations for needed changes, if any. The review will be provided to the State Board of Education, the State Department of Education, the Governor, the Senate Education Committee, and the House Education and Public Works Committee as soon as feasible after the field tests. The Department of Education will then report to the Education Oversight Committee no later than one month after receiving the reports on the changes made to the assessments to comply with the recommendations.

(B)   After review and approval by the Education Oversight Committee, the standards-based assessment of mathematics, English/language arts, social studies, and science will be administered to all public school students in grades three through eight, to include those students as required by the 1997 reauthorization of the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act and by Title 1 at the end of grades three through eight of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. To reduce the number of days of testing, to the extent possible, field test items must be embedded with the annual assessments. In accordance with the requirements of the federal No Child Left Behind Act, science assessments must be administered annually to all students in one elementary and one middle school grade. The State Department of Education shall develop a sampling plan to administer science and social studies assessments to all other elementary and middle school students. The plan shall provide for all students and both content areas to be assessed annually; however, individual students, except in census testing grades, are not required to take both tests. In the sampling plan, approximately half of the assessments must be administered in science and the other half in social studies in each class. To ensure that school districts maintain the high standard of accountability established in the Education Accountability Act, performance level results reported on school and district report cards must meet consistently high levels in all four core content areas. Beginning with the 2007 report card, the The core areas must remain consistent with the following percentage weightings established and approved by the Education Oversight Committee: in grades three through five, thirty percent each for English/language arts and math, and twenty percent each for science and social studies; and in grades six through eight, twenty-five percent each for English/language arts and math, and twenty-five percent each for science and social studies. The exit examination must be administered for the first time at the end of the student's second year of high school enrollment beginning with grade nine. For students with documented disabilities, the assessments developed by the Department of Education shall include the appropriate modifications and accommodations with necessary supplemental devices as outlined in a student's Individualized Education Program and as stated in the Administrative Guidelines and Procedures for Testing Students with Documented Disabilities. The State Board of Education shall establish a task force to recommend alternative evidence and procedures that may be used to allow students to meet graduation requirements even if they have failed the exit examination. The alternative evidence only may be used in the rare instances where there is compelling evidence that a student is well qualified for graduation, but extreme circumstances have interfered with passage of the exit examination and, for that reason alone, the student would be denied a state high school diploma.

(C)   After review and approval by the Education Oversight Committee, the end of course assessments of benchmark high school credit courses will be administered to all public school students as they complete each benchmark course.

(D)   Any new standards and assessments required to be developed and adopted by the State Board of Education, through the Department of Education, for use as an accountability measure, must be developed and adopted upon the advice and consent of the Education Oversight Committee.

Section 59-18-330.   The State Board of Education, through the State Department of Education, shall develop, select, or adapt a first-grade readiness test that is linked to the adopted grade-one academic standards and a second-grade readiness test that is linked to the adopted grade-two academic standards. The purpose of the tests is to measure individual student readiness, and they are not to be used as an accountability measure at the state level. However, the grade-two readiness test will serve as the baseline for grade-three assessment. The State Department of Education shall provide continuing teacher training to ensure the valid and reliable use of the assessments and develop a minimum statewide data collection plan to include the amount and types of evidence to be collected. Beginning with the 2006-07 school year, the readiness assessment must be modified to provide detailed information on student literacy development.

Section 59-18-340 Section 59-18-330.   The State Board Department of Education is directed to administer annually coordinate the annual administration of the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) to obtain an indication of student and school performance relative to national performance levels. A school randomly selected by NAEP must comply with the administration of the assessment to obtain an indication of state performance relative to national performance levels.

Section 59-18-350 Section 59-18-340.   High schools shall offer state-funded PSAT or PLAN tests to each tenth grade student in order to assess and identify curricular areas that need to be strengthened and reenforced. Schools and districts shall use these assessments as diagnostic tools to provide academic assistance to students whose scores reflect the need for such assistance. Schools and districts shall use these assessments to provide guidance and direction for parents and students as they plan for postsecondary experiences.

Section 59-18-360 Section 59-18-350.   (A)   The State Board of Education, in consultation with the Education Oversight Committee, shall provide for a cyclical review by academic area of the state standards and assessments to ensure that the standards and assessments are maintaining high expectations for learning and teaching. All academic areas must be initially reviewed by the year 2005. At a minimum, each academic area should be reviewed and updated every seven years. After each academic area is reviewed, a report on the recommended revisions must be presented to the Education Oversight Committee and the State Board of Education for its consideration. After approval by the Education Oversight Committee and the State Board of Education, the recommendations may be implemented. However, the previous content standards shall remain in effect until approval has been given by both entities. As a part of the review, a task force of parents, business and industry persons, community leaders, and educators, to include special education teachers, shall examine the standards and assessment system to determine rigor and relevancy.

(B)   Beginning with the 2005 assessment results, the The State Department of Education annually shall convene a team of curriculum experts to analyze the results of the assessments, including performance item by item. This analysis must yield a plan for disseminating additional information about the assessment results and instruction and the information must be disseminated to districts not later than January fifteenth of the subsequent year.

Section 59-18-370 Section 59-18-360.   Beginning with the 2010 assessment administration, the The Department of Education is directed to provide assessment results annually on individual students and schools by August first, in a manner and format that is easily understood by parents and the public. In addition, the school assessment results must be presented in a format easily understood by the faculty and in a manner that is useful for curriculum review and instructional improvement. The department is to provide longitudinally matched student data from the standards based assessments and include information on the performance of subgroups of students within the school. The department must work with the Division of Accountability in developing the formats of the assessment results. Schools and districts shall be are responsible for disseminating this information to parents.

Section 59-18-500.   (A)   Beginning in 1998-99 and annually thereafter, at the beginning of each school year, the school must notify the parents of the need for a conference for each student in grades three through eight who lacks the skills to perform at his current grade level based on assessment results, school work, or teacher judgment. At the conference, the student, parent, and appropriate school personnel will discuss the steps needed to ensure student success at the next grade level. An academic plan will be developed to outline additional services the school and district will provide and the actions the student and the parents will undertake to further student success.

(B)   The participants in the conference will sign off on the academic plan, including any requirement for summer school attendance. Should a parent, after attempts by the school to schedule the conference at their convenience, not attend the conference, the school will appoint a school mentor, either a teacher or adult volunteer, to work with the student and advocate for services. A copy of the academic plan will be sent to the parents by certified mail.

(C)   At the end of the school year, the student's performance will be reviewed by appropriate school personnel. If the student's work has not been at grade level or if the terms of the academic plan have not been met, the student may be retained, he may be required to attend summer school, or he may be required to attend a comprehensive remediation program the following year designed to address objectives outlined in the academic plan for promotion. Students required to participate the following year in a comprehensive remediation program must be considered on academic probation. Comprehensive remediation programs established by the district shall operate outside of the normal school day and must meet the guidelines established for these programs by the State Board of Education. If there is a compelling reason why the student should not be required to attend summer school or be retained, the parent or student may appeal to a district review panel.

(D)   At the end of summer school, a district panel must review the student's progress and report to the parents whether the student's academic progress indicates readiness to achieve grade level standards for the next grade. If the student is not at grade level or the students assessment results show standards are not met, the student must be placed on academic probation. A conference of the student, parents, and appropriate school personnel must revise the academic plan to address academic difficulties. At the conference it must be stipulated that academic probation means if either school work is not up to grade level or if assessment results again show standards are not met, the student will be retained. The district's appeals process remains in effect.

(E)   Each district board of trustees will establish policies on academic conferences, individual student academic plans, and district level reviews. Information on these policies must be given to every student and parent. Each district is to monitor the implementation of academic plans as a part of the local accountability plan. Districts are to use Act 135 of 1993 academic assistance funds to carry out academic plans, including required summer school attendance. Districts' policies regarding retention of students in grades one and two remain in effect.

(F)   The State Board of Education, working with the Oversight Committee, will establish guidelines until regulations are promulgated to carry out this section. The State Board of Education, working with the Accountability Division, will promulgate regulations requiring the reporting of the number of students retained at each grade level, the number of students on probation, number of students retained after being on probation, and number of students removed from probation. This data will be used as a performance indicator for accountability.

Section 59-18-700.   The criteria governing the adoption of instructional materials shall must be revised by the State Board of Education to require that the content of such materials reflect the substance and level of performance outlined in the grade specific educational standards adopted by the state board.

Section 59-18-710.   By November, 2000, the State Board of Education, working with the Department of Education and recommendations from the Accountability Division, must promulgate regulations outlining the criteria for the state's accreditation system which must include student academic performance. The State Department of Education shall provide recommendations regarding the state's accreditation system to the State Board of Education. The recommendations must be derived from input received from broad-based stakeholder groups. In developing the criteria for the accreditation system, the State Board of Education shall consider including the function of school improvement councils and other school decision-making groups and their participation in the school planning process.

Section 59-18-900.   (A)   The Education Oversight Committee, working with the State Board of Education, is directed to establish an a comprehensive annual report card, and its format, and an executive summary of the report card to report on the performance for the individual primary, elementary, middle, high schools, and school districts of the State. The comprehensive report card must be in a reader-friendly format, using graphics whenever possible, published on the state, district, and school website, and, upon request, printed by the school districts. The school's ratings on academic performance must be emphasized and an explanation of their significance for the school and the district must also be reported. The annual report card must serve at least four five purposes:

(1)   inform parents and the public about the school's performance;

(2)   assist in addressing the strengths and weaknesses within a particular school;

(3)   recognize schools with high performance; and

(4)   evaluate and focus resources on schools with low performance; and

(5)   meet federal report card requirements.

(B)   The Education Oversight Committee, working with the State Board of Education and a broad-based group of stakeholders, including, but not limited to, parents, business and industry persons, community leaders, and educators, shall determine the criteria for and establish five academic performance ratings of excellent, good, average, below average, and school/district at-risk unsatisfactory. Schools and districts shall receive a rating for absolute and improvement growth performance. Only the scores of students enrolled in the school at the time of the forty-five-day enrollment count shall be used to determine the absolute and improvement growth ratings. Graduation rates must be used as an additional accountability measure for high schools and school districts. The Oversight Committee, working with the State Board of Education, shall establish three student performance indicators which will be those considered to be useful for assessing a school's overall performance and appropriate for the grade levels within the school.

The student performance levels are: Not Met, Met, and Exemplary. 'Not Met' means that the student did not meet the grade level standard. 'Met' means the student met the grade level standard. 'Exemplary' means the student demonstrated exemplary performance in meeting the grade level standard. For purposes of reporting as required by federal statute, 'proficiency' shall include students performing at Met or Exemplary.

(C)   In setting the criteria for the academic performance ratings and the performance indicators, the Education Oversight Committee shall report the performance by subgroups of students in the school and schools similar in student characteristics. Criteria must use established guidelines for statistical analysis and build on current data-reporting practices.

(D)   The comprehensive report card must include a comprehensive set of performance indicators with information on comparisons, trends, needs, and performance over time which is helpful to parents and the public in evaluating the school. Special efforts are to be made to ensure that the information contained in the report card is provided in an easily understood manner and a reader-friendly format. This information should also provide a context for the performance of the school. Where appropriate, the data should yield disaggregated results to schools and districts in planning for improvement. The report card should include information in such areas as programs and curriculum, school leadership, community and parent support, faculty qualifications, evaluations of the school by parents, teachers, and students. In addition, the report card must contain other criteria including, but not limited to, information on promotion and retention ratios, disciplinary climate, dropout ratios, dropout reduction data, student and teacher ratios, and attendance data.

(E)   After reviewing the school's performance on statewide assessments, the The principal, in conjunction with the School Improvement Council established in Section 59-20-60, must write an annual narrative of a school's progress in order to further inform parents and the community about the school and its operation. The narrative must be reviewed by the district superintendent or appropriate body for a local charter school. The narrative must cite factors or activities supporting progress and barriers which inhibit progress. The school's report card must be furnished to parents and the public no later than November fifteenth.

(F)   The percentage of new trustees who have completed the orientation requirement provided in Section 59-19-45 must be reflected on the school district website report card.

(G)   The State Board of Education shall promulgate regulations outlining the procedures for data collection, data accuracy, data reporting, and consequences for failure to provide data required in this section.

Section 59-18-910.   No later than June 1, 1999, the Accountability Division must report on the development of the performance indicators criteria and the report card to the Education Oversight Committee and the State Board of Education. A second report, to include uniform collection procedures for academic standards and performance indicators, is due by September 1, 1999. No later than September, 1999, the State Department of Education shall report to the Oversight Committee the determination of the levels of difficulty for the assessments by grade and academic area. By March 1, 2000, a report on the development of baseline data for the schools is due from the division. Beginning in 2013, the Education Oversight Committee, working with the State Board of Education and a broad-based group of stakeholders, selected by the Education Oversight Committee, shall conduct a comprehensive cyclical review of the accountability system at least every five years and shall provide the General Assembly with a report on the findings and recommended actions to improve the accountability system and to accelerate improvements in student and school performance. The stakeholders must include the State Superintendent of Education and the Governor, or the Governor's designee. The other stakeholders include, but are not limited to, parents, business and industry persons, community leaders, and educators.

Section 59-18-920.   A charter school established pursuant to Chapter 40, Title 59 shall report the data requested by the Department of Education necessary to generate a report card. The Department of Education shall utilize this data to issue a report card with performance ratings to parents and the public containing the ratings and explaining its significance and providing other information similar to that required of other schools in this section. The performance of students attending charter schools sponsored by the South Carolina Public Charter School District must be included in the overall performance ratings of the South Carolina Public Charter School District. The performance of students attending a charter school authorized by a local school district must be reflected on a separate line on the school district's report card and must not be included in the overall performance ratings of the local school district. An alternative school is included in the requirements of this chapter; however, the purpose of an alternative school must be taken into consideration in determining its performance rating. The Education Oversight Committee, working with the State Board of Education and the School to Work Advisory Council, shall develop a report card for career and technology schools.

Section 59-18-930.   Beginning in 2001 and annually thereafter the   The State Department of Education must issue the executive summary of the report cards card annually to all schools and districts of the State no later than November first. The executive summary shall be printed in black and white, be no more than two pages, use graphical displays whenever possible, and contain National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores as well as national scores. The report card summary must be mailed made available to all parents of the school and the school district.

The school, in conjunction with the district board, must also inform the community of the school's report card by advertising the results in at least one South Carolina daily newspaper of general circulation in the area. This notice must be published within ninety forty-five days of receipt of the report cards issued by the State Department of Education and must be a minimum of two columns by ten inches (four and one-half by ten inches) with at least a twenty-four point bold headline.

Section 59-18-1100.   The State Board of Education, working with the division and the Department of Education, must establish the Palmetto Gold and Silver Awards Program to recognize and reward schools for academic achievement and for closing the achievement gap. Awards will be established for schools attaining high levels of absolute performance, and for schools attaining high rates of improvement growth, and for schools making substantial progress in closing the achievement gap between disaggregated groups. The award program must base improved performance on longitudinally matched student data and may include such additional criteria as:

(1)   student attendance;

(2)   teacher attendance;

(3)   student dropout graduation rates; and

(4)   any other factors promoting or maintaining high levels of achievement and performance. Schools shall be rewarded according to specific criteria established by the division. In defining eligibility for a reward for high levels of performance, student performance should exceed expected levels of improvement. The State Board of Education shall promulgate regulations to ensure districts of the State utilize these funds to improve or maintain exceptional performance according to their school's plans established in Section 59-139-10. Funds may be utilized for professional development support.
Special schools for the academically talented are not eligible to receive an award pursuant to the provisions of this section unless they have demonstrated improvement and high absolute achievement for three years immediately preceding.

Section 59-18-1110.   (A)   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a school is given the flexibility of receiving exemptions from those regulations and statutory provisions governing the defined program provided that, during a three-year period, the following criteria are satisfied:

(1)   the school has twice been a recipient of a Palmetto Gold or Silver Award, pursuant to Section 59-18-1100;

(2)   the school has met annual improvement standards for subgroups of students in reading and mathematics; and

(3)   the school has exhibited no recurring accreditation deficiencies.

(B)   Schools receiving flexibility status are released from those regulations and statutory provisions referred to above including, but not limited to, regulations and statutory provisions on class scheduling, class structure, and staffing. The State Board of Education in consultation with the Education Oversight Committee must promulgate regulations and develop guidelines for providing this flexibility by December 1, 2001.

(C)   To continue to receive flexibility pursuant to this section, a school must annually exhibit school improvement at or above the state average as computed in the school recognition program pursuant to Section 59-18-1100 and must meet the gains required for subgroups of students in reading and mathematics. A school which does not requalify for flexibility status due to extenuating circumstances may apply to the State Board of Education for an extension of this status for one year.

(D)   In the event that a school is removed from flexibility status, the school is not subject to regulations and statutory provisions exempted under this section until the beginning of the school year following notification of the change in status by the State Department of Education. Subsequent monitoring by the State Department of Education in a school that is removed from flexibility status shall not include a review of program records exempted under this section for the period that the school has received flexibility status or for the school year during which the school was notified of its removal from flexibility status.

Section 59-18-1120.   (A)   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a school designated as unsatisfactory school/district at-risk while in such status is given the flexibility of receiving exemptions from those regulations and statutory provisions governing the defined program or other State Board of Education regulations, dealing with the core academic areas as outlined in Section 59-18-120, provided that the review team recommends such flexibility to the State Board of Education.

(B)   Other schools may receive flexibility when their strategic school renewal plan explains why such exemptions are expected to improve the academic performance of the students and the plan meets the approval by the State Board of Education. To continue to receive flexibility pursuant to this section, a school must annually exhibit overall school improvement as outlined in its revised plan and must meet the gains set for subgroups of students in reading and mathematics content areas included in the accountability assessments. A school which does not requalify for flexibility status due to extenuating circumstances may apply to the State Board of Education for an extension of this status for one year according to the provisions of Section 59-18-1110(D).

Section 59-18-1300.   The State Board of Education, based on recommendations of the division, must develop regulations requiring that no later than August, 1999, each district board of trustees must establish and annually review a performance based accountability system, or modify its existing accountability system, to reinforce the state accountability system. Parents, teachers, and principals must be involved in the development, annual review, and revisions of the accountability system established by the district. The board of trustees shall ensure that a district accountability plan be developed, reviewed, and revised annually. In order to stimulate constant improvement in the process of teaching and learning in each school and to target additional local assistance for a school when its students' performance is low or shows little improvement, the district accountability system must build on the district and school activities and plans required in Section 59-139-10. In keeping with the emphasis on school accountability, principals should be actively involved in the selection, discipline, and dismissal of personnel in their particular school. The date the school improvement reports must be provided to parents is changed to February first. Until such time as regulations pursuant to this section become effective, school district accountability systems must be developed, adopted, and implemented in accordance with State Board of Education guidelines.
The Department of Education shall offer technical support to any district requesting assistance in the development of an accountability plan. Furthermore, the department must conduct a review of accountability plans as part of the peer review process required in Section 59-139-10(H) to ensure strategies are contained in the plans that shall maximize student learning. The department shall submit plans for the peer review process to the division for approval by August, 1999. School districts not having an approved plan by August 1, 1999, shall be provided a plan by the department within ninety days.

Section 59-18-1310.   The strategic plans and improvement reports required of the public schools and districts in Sections 59-18-1300, 59-18-1500, and 59-20-60 are consolidated and reported as follows: district and school five-year plans and annual updates and district programmatic reports, and school reports developed in conjunction with the school improvement council to parents and constituents to include recommendations of any an Education Accountability Act external review teams as approved by the State Board of Education and the steps being taken to address the recommendations, and the advertisement of this report are due on a date established by the Department of Education, but no later than April thirtieth annually; schools reviewed by external review teams shall prepare a report to the parents and constituents of the school, to be developed in conjunction with the School Improvement Council, and this report shall must be provided and advertised no later than April thirtieth annually. The school report card narrative in Section 59-18-900 continues on its prescribed date.

Section 59-18-1500.   (A)   When a school receives a rating of below average or school/district at-risk unsatisfactory, the following actions must be undertaken by the school, the district, and the board of trustees:

(1)   The faculty of the school with the leadership of the principal must review its improvement renewal plan and revise it with the assistance of the school improvement council established in Section 59-20-60. The revised plan should look at every aspect of schooling, and must outline activities that, when implemented, can reasonably be expected to improve student performance and increase the rate of student progress. The plan must include actions consistent with each of the alternative researched-based technical assistance criteria as approved by the Education Oversight Committee and the State Department of Education and consistent with the external review team report. The plan should provide a clear, coherent plan for professional development, which has been designed by the faculty, that is ongoing, job related, and keyed to improving teaching and learning. A school renewal plan must address professional development activities that are directly related to instruction in the core subject areas and may include the use of funds appropriated for technical assistance to provide compensation incentives in the form of salary supplements to classroom teachers who are certified by the State Board of Education. The purpose of the compensation packages is to improve student achievement and to improve the recruitment and retention of teachers with advanced degrees in schools designated as below average or school/district at-risk. If the school renewal plan is approved, the school shall be permitted to use technical assistance funds to provide the salary supplements. A time line for implementation of the activities and the goals to be achieved must be included.

(2)   Once the revised plan is developed, the district superintendent and the local board of trustees shall review the school's strategic plan to determine if the plan focuses on strategies to increase student academic performance. Once the district board has approved the plan, it must delineate the strategies and support the district will give the plan.

(3)   After the approval of the revised plan, the principals' and teachers' professional growth plans, as required by Section 59-26-40 and Section 59-24-40, should be reviewed and amended to reflect the professional development needs identified in the revised plan and must establish individual improvement criteria on the performance dimensions for the next evaluation.

(4)   The school, in conjunction with the district board, must inform the parents of children attending the school of the ratings received from the State Board of Education and must outline the steps in the revised plan to improve performance, including the support which the board of trustees has agreed to give the plan. This information must go to the parents no later than February first. This information must also be advertised in at least one South Carolina daily newspaper of general circulation in the area. This notice must be published within ninety days of receipt of the report cards issued by the State Department of Education and must be a minimum of two columns by ten inches (four and one-half by ten inches) with at least a twenty-four point bold headline. The notice must include the following information: name of school district, name of superintendent, district office telephone number, name of school, name of principal, telephone number of school, school's absolute performance rating and improvement growth performance rating on student academic performance, and strategies which must be taken by the district and school to improve student performance; and

(5)   Upon a review of the revised plan to ensure it contains sufficiently high standards and expectations for improvement, the Department of Education is to delineate the activities, support, services, and technical assistance it will make available to support the school's plan and sustain improvement over time. Schools meeting the criteria established pursuant to Section 59-18-1560 59-18-1550 will be eligible for the grant programs created by that section.

(B)   The Department of Education shall provide regional workshops to assist schools in formulating school renewal plans based on best practices that positively improve student achievement. The chairman of the local board of education or a board member designee, the superintendent or district instructional leader, and the principal of any school receiving technical assistance funds must attend at least one of the workshops in order to receive any state aid for technical assistance.

Section 59-18-1510.   (A)   When a school receives a rating of unsatisfactory school/district at-risk or upon the request of a school rated below average, an external review team process must be assigned implemented by the Department of Education to examine school and district educational programs, actions, and activities. The Education Oversight Committee, in consultation with the State Department of Education, shall develop the criteria for the identification of persons to serve as members of an external review team which shall include representatives from selected school districts, respected retired educators, State Department of Education staff, higher education representatives, parents from the district, and business representatives.

(B)   The activities of the external review committee may include:

(1)   examine examining all facets of school operations, focusing on strengths and weaknesses, determining the extent to which the instructional program is aligned with the content standards, and recommendations which draw upon strategies from those who have been successful in raising academic achievement in schools with similar student characteristics;

(2)   consult consulting with parents, community members, and members of the School Improvement Council to gather additional information on the strengths and weaknesses of the school;

(3)   identify identifying personnel changes, if any, that are needed at the school and/or district level and discuss such findings with the board;

(4)   work working with school staff, central offices, and local boards of trustees in the design of the school's plan, implementation strategies, and professional development training that can reasonably be expected to improve student performance and increase the rate of student progress in that school;

(5)   identify identifying needed support from the district, the State Department of Education, and other sources for targeted long-term technical assistance;

(6)   report reporting its recommendations, no later than three months after the school receives the designation of unsatisfactory school/district at-risk to the school, the district board of trustees, and the State Board of Education; and

(7)   report reporting annually to the local board of trustees and state board over the next four years, or as deemed necessary by the state board, on the district's and school's progress in implementing the plans and recommendations and in improving student performance.

(C)   Within thirty days, the Department of Education must notify the principal, the superintendent, and the district board of trustees of the recommendations approved by the State Board of Education. After the approval of the recommendations, the department shall delineate the activities, support, services, and technical assistance it will provide to the school. With the approval of the state board, this assistance will continue for at least three years, or as determined to be needed by the review committee to sustain improvement.

Section 59-18-1520.   If the recommendations approved by the state board, the district's plan, or the school's revised plan is are not satisfactorily implemented by the school rated unsatisfactory school/district at-risk and its school district according to the time line developed by the State Board of Education or if student academic performance has not met expected progress, the principal, district superintendent, and members of the board of trustees must appear before the State Board of Education to outline the reasons why a state of emergency should not be declared in the school. The state superintendent, after consulting with the external review committee and with the approval of the State Board of Education, shall be granted the authority to take any of the following actions:

(1)   furnish continuing advice and technical assistance in implementing the recommendations of the State Board of Education;

(2)   declare a state of emergency in the school and replace the school's principal; or

(3)   declare a state of emergency in the school and assume management of the school.

Section 59-18-1530.   (A)   Teacher specialists on site must may be assigned in any of the four core academic areas to a an elementary, middle, or high school in an impaired district or designated as below average or school/district at-risk unsatisfactory, if the review team so recommends and recommendation is approved by the State Board of Education. Teacher specialists on site must be assigned at a rate of one teacher for each grade level with a maximum of five to elementary schools in impaired districts or designated as below average or unsatisfactory. Teacher specialists may be placed across grade levels and across subject areas when placement meets program criteria based on external review team recommendations, need, number of teachers receiving support, certification, and experience of the specialist. The Department of Education, in consultation with the Division of Accountability, shall develop a program for the identification, selection, and training of teachers with a history of exemplary student academic achievement to serve as teacher specialists on site. Retired educators may be considered for specialists.

(B)   In order to sustain improvement and help implement the review team's recommendations, the specialists will teach and work with the school faculty on a regular basis throughout the school year for up to three years, or as recommended by the review committee and approved by the state board. Teacher specialists are limited to three years of service at one school unless the specialist submits application for an extension, the application is accepted by the State Department of Education, and placement is made. Upon acceptance and placement, the specialist can receive the salary and supplement for two additional years but is no longer attached to the home district or guaranteed placement in the home district upon leaving the teacher specialist program. Teacher specialists must teach a minimum of three hours per day on average in team teaching or teaching classes. Teacher specialists shall not be assigned administrative duties or other responsibilities outside the scope of this section. The specialists will assist the school in gaining knowledge of best practices and well-validated alternatives, demonstrate effective teaching, act as coach for improving classroom practices, give support and training to identify needed changes in classroom instructional strategies based upon analyses of assessment data, and support teachers in acquiring new skills. School districts are asked to cooperate in releasing employees for full-time or part-time employment as a teacher specialist.

(C)   To encourage and recruit teachers for assignment to below standard average and unsatisfactory school/district at-risk schools, those assigned to such schools will receive their salary and a supplement equal to fifty percent of the current southeastern average teacher salary as projected by the State Budget and Control Board, Office of Research and Analysis. The salary and supplement is to be paid by the State for three years. Teacher specialists may be employed, pursuant to subsection (B), as a component of the technical assistance strategy.

(D)   In order to attract a pool of qualified applicants to work in low-performing schools, the Education Oversight Committee, in consultation with the Leadership Academy of the South Carolina Department of Education, shall develop criteria for the identification, selection, and training of principals with a history of exemplary student academic achievement. Retired educators may be considered for a principal specialists specialist position. A principal specialist may be hired for a school designated as school/district at-risk unsatisfactory, if the district board of trustees chooses to replace the principal of that school. The principal specialist will assist the school in gaining knowledge of best practices and well-validated alternatives in carrying out the recommendations of the review team. The specialist will demonstrate effective leadership for improving classroom practices, assist in the analyses of assessment data, work with individual members of the faculty emphasizing needed changes in classroom instructional strategies based upon analyses of assessment data, and support teachers in acquiring new skills designed to increase academic performance. School districts are asked to cooperate in releasing employees for full-time or part-time employment as a principal specialist.

(E)   In order to attract a pool of qualified principals to work in low-performing schools, the principal specialists hired in such schools will receive their salary and a supplement equal to 1.25 times the supplement amount calculated for teachers. The salary and supplement are to be paid by the State for two years. Principal specialists may be employed as a component of the technical assistance strategy for two years. A principal specialist may be continued for a third year if requested by the local school board, recommended by the external review team, and approved by the State Board of Education. If employed for the third year, technical assistance funds may only be used for payment of the principal specialist salary supplement.

(F)   The supplements are to be considered part of the regular salary base for which retirement contributions are deductible by the South Carolina Retirement System pursuant to Section 9-1-1020. Principal and teacher specialists on site who are assigned to below average and unsatisfactory school/district at-risk schools shall be allowed to return to employment with their previous home district at the end of the contract period with the same teaching or administrative contract status as when they left but without assurance as to the school or supplemental position to which they may be assigned.

(G)   For retired educators drawing benefits from the state retirement system who are serving in the capacity of principal or teacher specialist on site, the earnings limitations which restrict the amount of compensation that may be earned from covered employment while drawing benefits under the state retirement system do not apply to any compensation paid to them as an on-site specialist not to exceed one year of such employment whether they are working directly for the school district or for some entity in this capacity. However, no further contributions may be made to the state retirement system related to this compensation and no additional retirement benefits or credits may be received or accrued. The Department of Education shall work with school districts and schools to broker the services of technical assistance personnel delineated in Section 59-18-1590 as needed, and as stipulated in the school renewal plan.

(H)   Within the parameters herein, the school district will have final determination on individuals who are assigned as teacher specialists and principal specialists.

Section 59-18-1540.   Each principal continued in employment in schools in districts designated as impaired or in schools designated as below average or unsatisfactory school/district at-risk must participate in a formal mentoring program with a principal. The Department of Education, working with the Education Oversight Committee, shall design the mentoring program and provide a stipend to those principals serving as mentors. A principal mentor may be employed as a component of the technical assistance strategy.

Section 59-18-1550.   Each teacher employed in schools designated as below average or unsatisfactory who participate in the professional development activities and the improvement actions of the school which go beyond the normal school day and year may earn credits toward recertification according to the criteria established by the State Board of Education. To receive credit, activities must be based on identified professional development needs outlined in the school's improvement plan and must include at least one of the following:

(1)   summer institute with follow-up activities;

(2)   practice of new teaching strategies with peers regularly throughout the school year;

(3)   work with peer study groups during the academic year in planning lessons; and

(4)   observing and coaching regularly in one another's classrooms.
The activities must be approved by the Department of Education and the department shall determine the amount of credit earned by the participation.

Section 59-18-1560. Section 59-18-1550.   (A)   The State Board of Education,working with the Accountability Division and the Department of Education, must establish grant programs for schools designated as below average and for schools designated as unsatisfactory. A school designated as below average will qualify for a grant to undertake any needed retraining of school faculty and administration once the revised plan is determined by the State Department of Education to meet the criteria on high standards and effective activities. A school designated as unsatisfactory will qualify for the grant program after the State Board of Education approves its revised plan. A grant or a portion of a grant may be renewed annually over the next three years, if school and district actions to implement the revised plan continue. In order to implement the school district and school renewal plan, a school must be eligible to receive the technical assistance funding over the next three years in order to implement fully systemic reform and to provide opportunity for building local education capacity. Should student performance not improve, any revisions to the plan must meet high standards prior to renewal of the grant. The revised plan must be reviewed by the district and board of trustees and the State Department of Education to determine what other actions, if any, need to be taken. A grant may be extended for up to an additional two years, if the State Board of Education determines it is needed to sustain academic improvement. The Technical assistance funds previously received must be expended based on the revised plan and according to criteria established by the State Board of Education. Prior to extending any grant, the Accountability Division shall review school expenditures to make a determination of the effective use of previously awarded grant funds. If deficient use is determined, those deficiencies must be identified, noted, and corrective action taken before a grant extension additional funding will be given.

(B)   The State Board of Education, working with the Department of Education and with the approval of the Education Oversight Committee, will develop guidelines outlining eligibility for the grant programs and methods of distributing funds which will be in effect until such time as the school ratings in Section 59-18-900(B) are implemented. In developing the eligibility guidelines, the board should consider criteria similar to that used in the former impaired district program. Until such time as regulations are promulgated, the funds shall be distributed on a per teacher basis for use only as outlined in the revised school plan.   (C)   A public school assistance fund shall must be established as a separate fund within the state general fund for the purpose of providing financial support to assist poorly performing schools. The fund may consist of grants, gifts, and donations from any public or private source or monies that may be appropriated by the General Assembly for this purpose. Income from the fund shall be retained in the fund. All funds may be carried forward from fiscal year to fiscal year. The State Treasurer shall invest the monies in this fund in the same manner as other funds under his control are invested. The State Board of Education, in consultation with the commission, shall administer and authorize any disbursements from the fund. The State Board of Education shall promulgate regulations to implement the provisions of this section.

Section 59-18-1570. Section 59-18-1560.   (A)   When a district receives a rating of below average, the state superintendent, with the approval of the State Board of Education, shall appoint an external review committee to study educational programs in that district and identify factors affecting the performance of the district. The review committee must:

(1)   examine all facets of school and district operations, focusing on strengths and weaknesses, determining the extent to which the instructional program is aligned with the content standards and shall make recommendations which draw upon strategies from those who have been successful in raising academic achievement in schools with similar student characteristics;

(2)   consult with parents and community members to gather additional information on the strengths and weaknesses of the district;

(3)   identify personnel changes, if any, that are needed at the school and/or district level and discuss such findings with the board;

(4)   work with school staff, central offices, and local boards of trustees in the design of the district's plan, implementation strategies, and professional development training that can reasonably be expected to improve student performance and increase the rate of student progress in the district;

(5)   identify needed support from the State Department of Education and other sources for targeted long-term technical assistance;

(6)   report its recommendations, no later than three months after the district receives the designation of school/district at-risk unsatisfactory, to the superintendent, the district board of trustees, and the State Board of Education; and

(7)   report annually over the next four years to the local board of trustees and state board, or as deemed necessary by the state board, on the district's and school's progress in implementing the plans and recommendations and in improving student performance.

(B)   Within thirty days, the Department of Education must notify the superintendent and the district board of trustees of the recommendations approved by the State Board of Education. Upon the approval of the recommendations, the Department of Education must delineate the activities, support, services, and technical assistance it will provide to support the recommendations and sustain improvement over time. The external review committee must report annually to the local board of trustees and the state board over the next four years, or as deemed necessary by the state board, on the district's progress in implementing the recommendations and improving student performance.

(C)   The review committee shall be composed of State Department of Education staff, representatives from selected school districts, higher education, and business.

Section 59-18-1580. Section 59-18-1570.   (A)   If recommendations approved by the State Board of Education are not satisfactorily implemented by the school district according to the time line developed by the State Board of Education, or if student performance has not made the expected progress and the school district is designated as school/district at-risk unsatisfactory, the district superintendent and members of the board of trustees shall appear before the State Board of Education to outline the reasons why a state of emergency must not be declared in the district.

(B)   The state superintendent, with the approval of the State Board of Education, is granted authority to:

(1)   furnish continuing advice and technical assistance in implementing the recommendations of the State Board of Education to include establishing and conducting a training program for the district board of trustees and the district superintendent to focus on roles and actions in support of increases in student achievement;

(2)   mediate personnel matters between the district board and district superintendent when the State Board of Education is informed by majority vote of the board or the superintendent that the district board is considering dismissal of the superintendent, and the parties agree to mediation;

(3)   recommend to the Governor that the office of superintendent be declared vacant. If the Governor declares the office vacant, the state superintendent may furnish an interim replacement until the vacancy is filled by the district board of trustees. District boards of trustees negotiating contracts for the superintendency shall include a provision that the contract is void should the Governor declare that office of superintendency vacant pursuant to this section. This contract provision does not apply to any existing contracts but to new contracts or renewal of contracts; and

(4)   declare a state of emergency in the school district and assume management of the school district.

(C)   The district board of trustees may appoint at least two nonvoting members to the board from a pool nominated by the Education Oversight Committee and the State Department of Education. The appointed members shall have demonstrated high levels of knowledge, commitment, and public service, must be recruited and trained for service as appointed board members by the Education Oversight Committee and the State Department of Education, and shall represent the interests of the State Board of Education on the district board. Compensation for the nonvoting members must be paid by the State Board of Education in an amount equal to the compensation paid to the voting members of the district board.

Section 59-18-1590. Section 59-18-1580.   To assist schools and school districts as they work to improve classroom practice and student performance, the Department of Education must increase the delivery of quality technical assistance services and the assessment of instructional programs. The department may need to reshape some of its organization and key functions to make them more consistent with the assistance required by schools and districts in developing and implementing local accountability systems and meeting state standards. The Department of Education must:

(1)   establish an ongoing state mechanism to promote successful programs found in South Carolina schools for implementation in schools with similar needs and students, to review evidence on instructional and organizational practices considered to be effective, and to alert schools and classroom teachers to these options and the sources of training and names of implementing schools;

(2)   provide information and technical assistance in understanding state policies, how they fit together, and the best practice in implementing them; and

(3)   establish a process for monitoring information provided for accountability and for assessing improvement efforts and implementation of state laws and policies which focuses on meeting the intent and purpose of those laws and policies.

Section 59-18-1595. Section 59-18-1590.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and in order to provide assistance at the beginning of the school year, schools may qualify for technical assistance based on the criteria established by the Education Oversight Committee for school ratings and on the most recently available end-of-year assessment scores. In order to best meet the needs of low-performing schools, the funding provided for technical assistance under the Education Accountability Act may be reallocated among the programs and purposes specified in this section. The State Department of Education shall establish criteria for reviewing and assisting schools that will be rated unsatisfactory school/district at-risk or below average using a tiered system with the lowest-performing schools receiving highest priority. Not to exceed the statewide total number of specialists stipulated by the Education Accountability Act, the highest priority school assistance shall include a year-long technical assistance team that may include a lead principal or curriculum specialist, or both. All specialists shall have a demonstrated record of success in their field and shall be entitled to the incentives and benefits of a teacher specialist. Technical assistance for below average schools shall be provided to the extent possible in order of need. Funds must be expended on strategies and activities expressly outlined in the school plan. The activities may include, but are not limited to, teacher specialist, principal specialist, curriculum specialist, principal leader, principal mentor, professional development, compensation incentives, homework centers, formative assessments, or comprehensive school reform efforts. The State Department of Education shall provide information on the technical assistance strategies and their impact to the State Board of Education, the Education Oversight Committee, the Senate Education Committee, the Senate Finance Committee, the House of Representatives Education and Public Works Committee, and the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee annually.

Section 59-18-1600.   (A)   A school that has received an a unsatisfactory school/district at-risk absolute academic performance rating on its most recent report card shall offer an orientation class for parents. The orientation class must focus on the following topics:

(1)   the value of education;

(2)   academic assistance programs that are available at the school and in the community;

(3)   student discipline;

(4)   school policies;

(5)   explanation of information that will be presented on the school's report card issued in November; and

(6)   other pertinent issues.

(B)   The school shall offer the orientation class each year the school receives an a unsatisfactory school/district at-risk absolute academic performance rating on the school report card and shall provide parents with written notification of the date and time of the meeting. Schools are encouraged to offer the orientation class at a time in which the majority of parents would be able to attend. Additionally, schools are encouraged to provide orientation classes in community settings or workplaces so that the needs of parents with transportation difficulties or scheduling conflicts can be met.

(C)   A parent or guardian of each student who is registered to attend the school shall attend the orientation class each year it is offered.

Section 59-18-1700.   (A)   An on-going public information campaign must be established to apprise the public of the status of the public schools and the importance of high standards for academic performance for the public school students of South Carolina. A special committee shall must be appointed by the chairman of the Education Oversight Committee to include two committee members representing business and two representing education and others representing business, industry, and education. The committee shall plan and oversee the development of a campaign, including public service announcements for the media and other such avenues as deemed appropriate for informing the public. The plan must be reported to the Governor, the Senate Education Committee, and the House Education and Public Works Committee by March 15, 1999.

(B)   A separate fund within the state general fund will be established to accept grants, gifts, and donations from any public or private source or monies that may be appropriated by the General Assembly for the public information campaign. Members of the Oversight Committee representing business will solicit donations for this fund. Income from the fund shall must be retained in the fund. All funds may be carried forward from fiscal year to fiscal year. The State Treasurer shall invest the monies in this fund in the same manner as other funds under his control are invested. The Oversight Committee shall administer and authorize any disbursements from the fund. Private individuals and groups shall be encouraged to contribute to this endeavor.

Section 59-18-1910.   The State Board of Education shall establish grant programs to fund homework centers in schools and districts designated as below average and unsatisfactory. Until such time as these ratings are established, all schools in districts declared to be impaired are eligible to receive funding on a per pupil basis. Schools receiving such below average or school/district at-risk designations may use technical assistance funds allocated pursuant to Section 59-18-1590 to must provide homework centers that go beyond the regular school hours where students can come and receive assistance in understanding and completing their school work. Technical assistance funds Funds provided for these centers may be used for salaries for certified teachers and for transportation costs. Homework centers meeting the criteria established by the board shall receive funds as appropriated by the General Assembly. For 1998-99, of the funds appropriated for assessment, up to five hundred thousand dollars shall be used for homework centers.

Section 59-18-1920.   (A)   The State Board of Education, through the Department of Education, shall establish a grant program to encourage school districts to pilot test or implement a modified school year or school day schedule. The purpose of the grant is to assist with the additional costs incurred during the intersessions for salaries, transportation, and operations, or for additional costs incurred by lengthening the school day. For a district to qualify for a grant, all the schools within a specific feeder zone or elementary-to-middle-to-high-school attendance area, must be pilot testing or implementing the modified year or day schedule. Districts declared to be impaired will have priority in obtaining such grants.

(B)   To obtain a grant, a district shall submit an application to the state board in a format specified by the Department of Education. The application shall include a plan for implementing a modified year or day that provides the following: more time for student learning, learning opportunities that typically are not available in the regular student day, targeted assistance for students whose academic performance is significantly below promotion standards, more efficient use of facilities and other resources, and evaluations of the impact of the modified schedule. Local district boards of trustees shall require students whose performance in a core subject area, as defined in Section 59-18-300, is the equivalent of a 'D' average or below to attend the intersessions or stay for the lengthened day and receive special assistance in the subject area. Funding for the program is as provided by the General Assembly in the annual appropriations act. Each grant award for program pilot testing or implementation may not exceed a three-year period.

Section 59-18-1930.   The Education Oversight Committee shall provide for a comprehensive review of state and local professional development to include principal leadership development and teacher staff development. The review must provide an analysis of training to include what professional development is offered, how it is offered, the support given to implement skills acquired from professional development, and how the professional development enhances the academic goals outlined in district and school strategic plans. The Oversight Committee shall recommend better ways to provide and meet the needs for professional development, to include the use of the existing five contract days for in service. Needed revisions shall be made to state regulations to promote use of state dollars for training which meets national standards for staff development.

Upon receipt of the recommendations from the comprehensive review of state and local professional development, the State Department of Education shall develop an accountability system to ensure that identified professional development standards are effectively implemented. As part of this system the department shall provide information on the identified standards to all principals and other professional development leaders. Training for all school districts in how to design comprehensive professional development programs that are consistent with the standards shall also be a part of the implementation. A variety of staff development options that address effective teaching and assessment of state academic standards and workforce preparation skills shall be included in the information provided to principals and other professional development leaders to ensure high levels of student achievement."

SECTION   2.   As of July 1, 2008 the Palmetto Achievement Challenge Test no longer meets the requirements of Chapter 18 of Title 59.

SECTION   3.   Section 59-67-270(A)(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)(1)   All publicly owned or leased school buses, including buses owned or leased by a public school district, must be inspected annually in compliance with either the State Department of Education's annual school bus inspection program or the federal Department of Transportation annual inspection program if the standards of the federal inspection program meet or exceed the standards of the state's program. The State Department of Education shall assist school districts using the Department of Education's program in this requirement by providing the training and certification of a limited number of personnel designated by a school district to perform the inspection, providing the inspection manuals and forms, and supplying the inspection certificate stickers for the school buses. The State Department of Education's assistance must be free of charge. Any savings resulting from the ability to be inspected by either the State Department of Education or the federal Department of Transportation shall be expended on accountability programs set forth in Chapter 18 of this title."

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

Amend title to conform.

/s/Robert Wesley Hayes, Jr.       /s/William Ramsey Whitmire
/s/Linda H. Short                 /s/Eric Michael Bedingfield
/s/Nikki Giles Setzler            /s/James M. Neal
On Part of the Senate.            On Part of the House.

, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and was granted Free Conference Powers and has appointed Reps. Whitmire, Bedingfield and J.M. Neal to the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the House on:

H. 4662 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Harrell, Whitmire, Toole, Gullick, Spires, Hiott, Bannister, J.R. Smith, Loftis, Ballentine, Pinson, Cotty, Brady, Bedingfield, Hardwick, Edge, Herbkersman, Lowe, Crawford, Limehouse, Hamilton, G.R. Smith, Harrison, Duncan, Bowen, Huggins, Mahaffey, Erickson, Leach, Owens, Frye, Rice, Hutson, Bingham, Haskins, Littlejohn, Cato, Chalk, Clyburn, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Gambrell, Kelly, Lucas, Merrill, Moss, Neilson, E.H. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, Shoopman, Skelton, D.C. Smith, G.M. Smith, W.D. Smith, Talley, Taylor, Umphlett, Viers, White, Witherspoon, Young, Barfield, Knight, Miller, Battle, Perry, Bales, Phillips, J.M. Neal, R. Brown and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 18, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH SCHOOLS ARE ASSESSED AND ACCREDITED, TO PROVIDE FOR DESIGNATION TO SIGNIFY VARYING LEVELS OF SCHOOL ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, AND TO REVISE AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS REGARDING EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on:

H. 4662 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Harrell, Whitmire, Toole, Gullick, Spires, Hiott, Bannister, J.R. Smith, Loftis, Ballentine, Pinson, Cotty, Brady, Bedingfield, Hardwick, Edge, Herbkersman, Lowe, Crawford, Limehouse, Hamilton, G.R. Smith, Harrison, Duncan, Bowen, Huggins, Mahaffey, Erickson, Leach, Owens, Frye, Rice, Hutson, Bingham, Haskins, Littlejohn, Cato, Chalk, Clyburn, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Gambrell, Kelly, Lucas, Merrill, Moss, Neilson, E.H. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, Shoopman, Skelton, D.C. Smith, G.M. Smith, W.D. Smith, Talley, Taylor, Umphlett, Viers, White, Witherspoon, Young, Barfield, Knight, Miller, Battle, Perry, Bales, Phillips, J.M. Neal, R. Brown and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 18, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH SCHOOLS ARE ASSESSED AND ACCREDITED, TO PROVIDE FOR DESIGNATION TO SIGNIFY VARYING LEVELS OF SCHOOL ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, AND TO REVISE AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS REGARDING EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

H. 4662 (Word version) -- Reps. Walker, Harrell, Whitmire, Toole, Gullick, Spires, Hiott, Bannister, J.R. Smith, Loftis, Ballentine, Pinson, Cotty, Brady, Bedingfield, Hardwick, Edge, Herbkersman, Lowe, Crawford, Limehouse, Hamilton, G.R. Smith, Harrison, Duncan, Bowen, Huggins, Mahaffey, Erickson, Leach, Owens, Frye, Rice, Hutson, Bingham, Haskins, Littlejohn, Cato, Chalk, Clyburn, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Gambrell, Kelly, Lucas, Merrill, Moss, Neilson, E.H. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, Shoopman, Skelton, D.C. Smith, G.M. Smith, W.D. Smith, Talley, Taylor, Umphlett, Viers, White, Witherspoon, Young, Barfield, Knight, Miller, Battle, Perry, Bales, Phillips, J.M. Neal, R. Brown and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 18, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH SCHOOLS ARE ASSESSED AND ACCREDITED, TO PROVIDE FOR DESIGNATION TO SIGNIFY VARYING LEVELS OF SCHOOL ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, AND TO REVISE AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS REGARDING EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY.

The Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification.

A message was sent to the House accordingly.

S. 274 (Word version) -- Senators Fair, Verdin, Anderson, Sheheen, Campsen, Thomas, Williams, Bryant, Cromer and Scott: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 21, TITLE 24, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH DAY REPORTING CENTERS FOR CERTAIN INMATES OR OFFENDERS.

On motion of Senator FAIR, with unanimous consent, the Report of the Committee of Free Conference was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator FAIR spoke on the report.

On motion of Senator FAIR, the Report of the Committee of Free Conference to S. 274 was adopted as follows:

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:

S. 274 (Word version) -- Senators Fair, Verdin, Anderson, Sheheen, Campsen, Thomas, Williams, Bryant, Cromer and Scott: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 21, TITLE 24, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH DAY REPORTING CENTERS FOR CERTAIN INMATES OR OFFENDERS.

Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Chapter 21, Title 24 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

Section 24-21-1300.   (A)   The Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services may develop and operate day reporting centers within the State.

(B)   'Day reporting center' means a state facility providing supervision of inmates or offenders placed on supervision, which includes, but is not limited to, mandatory reporting, program participation, drug testing, community service, and any other conditions as determined by the Department of Corrections and the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services.

(C)   'Eligible inmate' means a person sentenced to imprisonment for more than three months, excluding a person sentenced for:

(1)   a violent crime, as provided for in Section 16-1-60;

(2)   a Class A, B, or C felony, as provided for in Section 16-1-20;

(3)   the following Class D felonies:

(a)   robbery, as provided for in Section 16-11-325;

(b)   disseminating obscene material to a minor twelve years of age or younger, as provided for in Section 16-15-355; and

(c)   aggravated stalking, as provided for in Section 16-3-1730(C).

(4)   an unclassified crime which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years or more, as provided for in Section 16-1-10(D);

(5)   the unclassified crime of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature in which the original indictment was for an offense that would require registration as a sex offender, as provided for in Section 23-3-430; or

(6)   a crime which requires a registration as a sex offender, as provided for in Section 23-3-430. 'Eligible inmate' does not include a person who does not provide an approved in-state residence as determined jointly by the Department of Corrections and the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services.

(D)   'Eligible offender' means a person placed on probation, parole, community supervision, or any other supervision program operated by the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, excluding a person sentenced for:

(1)   a violent crime, as provided for in Section 16-1-60;

(2)   a Class A, B, or C felony, as provided for in Section 16-1-20;

(3)   the following Class D felonies:

(a)   robbery, as provided for in Section 16-11-325;

(b)   disseminating obscene material to a minor twelve years of age or younger, as provided for in Section 16-15-355; and

(c)   aggravated stalking, as provided for in Section 16-3-1730(C).

(4)   an unclassified crime which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years or more, as provided for in Section 16-1-10(D);

(5)   the unclassified crime of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature in which the original indictment was for an offense that would require registration as a sex offender, as provided for in Section 23-3-430; or

(6)   a crime which requires a registration as a sex offender, as provided for in Section 23-3-430. 'Eligible offender' does not include a person who does not provide an approved in-state residence as determined jointly by the Department of Corrections and the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services.

Section 24-21-1310.   (A)   Notwithstanding another provision of law, the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services may develop and operate day reporting centers for eligible inmates and eligible offenders, if the General Assembly appropriates funds to operate these centers. The Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services shall develop policies, procedures, and guidelines for the operation of day reporting centers. The period of time an eligible inmate or offender is required to participate in a day reporting program and the individual terms and conditions of an eligible inmate's or offender's placement and participation are at the joint discretion of the Department of Corrections and the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services.

(B)   An inmate or offender has no right to be placed in a day reporting center. The Department of Corrections and the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services have absolute discretion to place an eligible inmate or offender in a day reporting center and nothing in this article may be construed to entitle an inmate or offender to participate in a day reporting center program.

Section 24-21-1320.   (A)   An eligible inmate or offender placed in a day reporting center must agree to abide by the conditions established by the Department of Corrections and the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, which may include, but are not limited to:

(1)   seek and maintain employment;

(2)   participate in any educational, vocational training, counseling, or mentoring program recommended by the department;

(3)   refrain from using alcohol or nonprescription medication; and

(4)   pay a reasonable supervision fee, which may be waived by the department, that must be retained by the department to assist in funding this program.

(B)   An eligible inmate or offender who fails to abide by the conditions established by the Department of Corrections and the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services may be removed from the community and brought before an administrative hearing officer of the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services. The Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services is the sole authority for determining whether any condition has been violated and for determining the actions to be taken in response to the violation. A participant revoked from participation in a day reporting center may be subject to further criminal proceedings or the institution of internal disciplinary sanctions for violations of any conditions associated with his placement in the day reporting center program. An inmate who fails to report as instructed, or whose whereabouts are unknown, may be considered to be an escapee by the department and may be apprehended and returned to custody as any other inmate who is deemed an escapee by the department.

(C)   If a sentence to a day reporting center is revoked, the inmate must serve the remainder of his sentence within the Department of Corrections.

Section 24-21-1330.   The pilot project day reporting center program terminates twelve months from its opening, unless extended by the General Assembly."

SECTION   2.   Section 22-5-110 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 22-5-110.   (A)   Magistrates shall cause to be arrested all persons found within their counties charged with any offense and persons who after committing any offense within the county escape out of it, examine into treasons, felonies, grand larcenies, high crimes and misdemeanors, commit or bind over for trial those who appear to be guilty of crimes or offenses not within their jurisdiction and punish those guilty of such offenses within their jurisdiction.

(B)   Notwithstanding another provision of law, a person charged with any misdemeanor offense requiring a warrant signed by non-law enforcement personnel to ensure the arrest of a person must be given a courtesy summons."

SECTION   3.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor and must be implemented upon the appropriations of sufficient funds by the General Assembly. /

Amend title to read.

/ A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 21, TITLE 24, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO DEVELOP AND OPERATE DAY REPORTING CENTERS FOR CERTAIN INMATES AND OFFENDERS, TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR CERTAIN TERMS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF AN INMATE'S PLACEMENT AND PARTICIPATION IN A DAY REPORTING PROGRAM IS AT THE JOINT DISCRETION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, TO PROVIDE THE PROCEDURE FOR THE REMOVAL OF A PARTICIPANT FROM THE PROGRAM, AND TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UPON WHICH THE PILOT PROJECT DAY REPORTING CENTER PROGRAM TERMINATES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 22-5-110, RELATING TO A MAGISTRATE'S RESPONSIBILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CHARGED WITH CERTAIN MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES MUST BE GIVEN A COURTESY SUMMONS. /

/s/Sen. Michael L. Fair           /s/Rep. G. Murrell Smith, Jr.
/s/Sen. Vincent A. Sheheen        /s/Rep. William G. Herbkersman
/s/Sen. Paul G. Campbell, Jr.     /s/Rep. Douglas Jennings, Jr.
On Part of the Senate.                On Part of the House.

, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and was granted Free Conference Powers and has appointed Reps. G. M. Smith, Herbkersman and Jennings to the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the House on:

S. 274 (Word version) -- Senators Fair, Verdin, Anderson, Sheheen, Campsen, Thomas, Williams, Bryant, Cromer and Scott: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 21, TITLE 24, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO DEVELOP AND OPERATE DAY REPORTING CENTERS FOR CERTAIN INMATES AND OFFENDERS, TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR CERTAIN TERMS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF AN INMATE'S PLACEMENT AND PARTICIPATION IN A DAY REPORTING PROGRAM IS AT THE JOINT DISCRETION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, TO PROVIDE THE PROCEDURE FOR THE REMOVAL OF A PARTICIPANT FROM THE PROGRAM, AND TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UPON WHICH THE PILOT PROJECT DAY REPORTING CENTER PROGRAM TERMINATES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 22-5-110, RELATING TO A MAGISTRATE'S RESPONSIBILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CHARGED WITH CERTAIN MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES MUST BE GIVEN A COURTESY SUMMONS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on:

S. 274 (Word version) -- Senators Fair, Verdin, Anderson, Sheheen, Campsen, Thomas, Williams, Bryant, Cromer and Scott: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 21, TITLE 24, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, BY ADDING ARTICLE 13 SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO DEVELOP AND OPERATE DAY REPORTING CENTERS FOR CERTAIN INMATES AND OFFENDERS, TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR CERTAIN TERMS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF AN INMATE'S PLACEMENT AND PARTICIPATION IN A DAY REPORTING PROGRAM IS AT THE JOINT DISCRETION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND THE DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION, PAROLE AND PARDON SERVICES, TO PROVIDE THE PROCEDURE FOR THE REMOVAL OF A PARTICIPANT FROM THE PROGRAM, AND TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS UPON WHICH THE PILOT PROJECT DAY REPORTING CENTER PROGRAM TERMINATES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 22-5-110, RELATING TO A MAGISTRATE'S RESPONSIBILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CHARGED WITH CERTAIN MISDEMEANOR OFFENSES MUST BE GIVEN A COURTESY SUMMONS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

The Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification.

A message was sent to the House accordingly.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon the amendments proposed by the House to:

S. 1150 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-1630 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL IMPORTATION, POSSESSION, OR SELLING OF CERTAIN FISH AND SPECIAL PERMITS FOR RESEARCH, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MUST PERFORM A STERILITY TEST ON WHITE AMUR OR GRASS CARP HYBRIDS PERMITTED TO BE RELEASED INTO THE WATERS OF THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY CHARGE A FEE FOR THE STERILITY TEST TO OFFSET THE COSTS OF THE STERILITY TEST, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISSUE A PERMIT FOR THE IMPORTATION, BREEDING, AND POSSESSION OF NON-STERILE WHITE AMUR OR GRASS CARP HYBRIDS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT NON-STERILE WHITE AMUR AND GRASS CARP HYBRIDS IMPORTED, BRED, OR POSSESSED MAY NOT BE RELEASED INTO THE WATERS OF THIS STATE.
asks for a Committee of Conference, and has appointed Reps. Mitchell, Duncan and M.A. Pitts to the committee on the part of the House.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

S. 1150 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-1630 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL IMPORTATION, POSSESSION, OR SELLING OF CERTAIN FISH AND SPECIAL PERMITS FOR RESEARCH, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MUST PERFORM A STERILITY TEST ON WHITE AMUR OR GRASS CARP HYBRIDS PERMITTED TO BE RELEASED INTO THE WATERS OF THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY CHARGE A FEE FOR THE STERILITY TEST TO OFFSET THE COSTS OF THE STERILITY TEST, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISSUE A PERMIT FOR THE IMPORTATION, BREEDING, AND POSSESSION OF NON-STERILE WHITE AMUR OR GRASS CARP HYBRIDS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT NON-STERILE WHITE AMUR AND GRASS CARP HYBRIDS IMPORTED, BRED, OR POSSESSED MAY NOT BE RELEASED INTO THE WATERS OF THIS STATE.

Whereupon, Senators VERDIN, CAMPSEN and WILLIAMS were appointed to the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and was granted Free Conference Powers and has appointed Reps. Park, Herbkersman and Spires to the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the House on:

S. 799 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-755, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SUPERVISORY AND PROTOCOL REQUIREMENTS FOR CONDUCTING AURICULAR DETOXIFICATION THERAPY, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT AURICULAR DETOXIFICATION THERAPISTS MUST BE SUPERVISED DIRECTLY BY A LICENSED ACUPUNCTURIST; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-710, RELATING TO THE ACUPUNCTURE ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT THREE MEMBERS, RATHER THAN FOUR, CONSTITUTE A QUORUM OF THE FIVE MEMBER BOARD; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-725, RELATING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, TO CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH PERSONS PRACTICING ACUPUNCTURE SINCE 1980 ARE EXEMPT FROM LICENSURE, SO AS TO ALSO APPLY THESE CONDITIONS FOR EXEMPTION FROM LICENSURE TO PERSONS PRACTICING AURICULAR THERAPY SINCE 1997; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-745, RELATING TO PENALTIES AND SANCTIONS FOR THE UNAUTHORIZED PRACTICE OF ACUPUNCTURE AND FOR THE UNAUTHORIZED USE OF CERTAIN TITLES, SO AS TO SPECIFY TITLES THAT LICENSED ACUPUNCTURISTS MAY USE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 40-47-730 RELATING TO AURICULAR THERAPY LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on:

S. 799 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-755, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SUPERVISORY AND PROTOCOL REQUIREMENTS FOR CONDUCTING AURICULAR DETOXIFICATION THERAPY, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT AURICULAR DETOXIFICATION THERAPISTS MUST BE SUPERVISED DIRECTLY BY A LICENSED ACUPUNCTURIST; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-710, RELATING TO THE ACUPUNCTURE ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT THREE MEMBERS, RATHER THAN FOUR, CONSTITUTE A QUORUM OF THE FIVE MEMBER BOARD; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-725, RELATING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, TO CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH PERSONS PRACTICING ACUPUNCTURE SINCE 1980 ARE EXEMPT FROM LICENSURE, SO AS TO ALSO APPLY THESE CONDITIONS FOR EXEMPTION FROM LICENSURE TO PERSONS PRACTICING AURICULAR THERAPY SINCE 1997; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-745, RELATING TO PENALTIES AND SANCTIONS FOR THE UNAUTHORIZED PRACTICE OF ACUPUNCTURE AND FOR THE UNAUTHORIZED USE OF CERTAIN TITLES, SO AS TO SPECIFY TITLES THAT LICENSED ACUPUNCTURISTS MAY USE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 40-47-730 RELATING TO AURICULAR THERAPY LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

S. 799 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-755, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SUPERVISORY AND PROTOCOL REQUIREMENTS FOR CONDUCTING AURICULAR DETOXIFICATION THERAPY, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT AURICULAR DETOXIFICATION THERAPISTS MUST BE SUPERVISED DIRECTLY BY A LICENSED ACUPUNCTURIST; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-710, RELATING TO THE ACUPUNCTURE ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT THREE MEMBERS, RATHER THAN FOUR, CONSTITUTE A QUORUM OF THE FIVE MEMBER BOARD; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-725, RELATING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, TO CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH PERSONS PRACTICING ACUPUNCTURE SINCE 1980 ARE EXEMPT FROM LICENSURE, SO AS TO ALSO APPLY THESE CONDITIONS FOR EXEMPTION FROM LICENSURE TO PERSONS PRACTICING AURICULAR THERAPY SINCE 1997; TO AMEND SECTION 40-47-745, RELATING TO PENALTIES AND SANCTIONS FOR THE UNAUTHORIZED PRACTICE OF ACUPUNCTURE AND FOR THE UNAUTHORIZED USE OF CERTAIN TITLES, SO AS TO SPECIFY TITLES THAT LICENSED ACUPUNCTURISTS MAY USE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 40-47-730 RELATING TO AURICULAR THERAPY LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS.

The Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification.

A message was sent to the House accordingly.

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

S. 1143 (Word version) -- Senators McConnell, Martin, Alexander, Hayes, Hutto, Ceips, Peeler, Leventis, Rankin, Setzler, Knotts and Malloy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE STATE SALES TAX, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES OR THE SALES PRICE OF ENERGY EFFICIENT APPLIANCES.
On motion of Senator RYBERG, the Senate requested return of the Bill from the House.

There was no objection and the Bill was returned as requested.

Senator RYBERG proposed the following amendment (1143R007.WGR), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 4 and inserting:

/     SECTION   4.   Except as otherwise stated, this act takes effect July 1, 2009. Section 3 takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 913 (Word version) -- Senators Martin and Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-310, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO GENERAL ELECTION BALLOTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MUST PROVIDE FOR BALLOTS AS REQUIRED BY LAW AND TO DELETE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator MALLOY proposed the following amendment (JUD0913.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, pages 1 and 2, by striking SECTION 2 (A and B) in its entirety.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator MALLOY explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 1131 (Word version) -- Senator Thomas: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 38-43-20, 38-43-70, BOTH AS AMENDED, 38-43-75, 38-43-80, AS AMENDED, 38-43-100, AND 38-43-101, BOTH AS AMENDED, 38-43-102, 38-43-106, 38-43-107, 38-43-110, 38-43-130, ALL AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, ALL RELATING TO INSURANCE PRODUCERS AND AGENCIES, SO AS TO CLARIFY LANGUAGE THAT AN EMPLOYEE OF A LICENSED PRODUCER WHO PERFORMS ONLY CLERICAL DUTIES MAY NOT SIGN AN APPLICATION FOR INSURANCE; TO PROVIDE THAT UNLESS DENIED LICENSURE A NONRESIDENT PERSON SHALL RECEIVE A NONRESIDENT PRODUCER'S LICENSE WITH THE SAME LINES OF AUTHORITY HELD IN THE PRODUCER'S HOME STATE; TO PROVIDE THAT LIMITED LINE INSURANCE INCLUDES CREDIT INSURANCE; TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEFINITION OF "BIENNIAL APPOINTMENT FEE", PROVIDE FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE FEE IF REJECTED BY A BANK, DELETE THE ADMINISTRATIVE FEE, AND AUTHORIZE PAY OF FEES BY A CREDIT OR DEBIT CARD; TO REQUIRE ALL APPLICANTS FOR A PRODUCER'S LICENSE TAKE AN EXAMINATION AND DELETE THE WAIVER OR EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN APPLICANTS; TO PROVIDE THAT A PRODUCER MAY NOT TAKE THE SAME CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSE AND CASUALTY-LICENSED INSURANCE PRODUCER COURSE FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT MORE THAN ONE TIME IN A BIENNIAL COMPLIANCE PERIOD AND PROVIDE FOR THE NONWAIVER OF CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS; TO PROVIDE THAT INDIVIDUAL LICENSES CONTINUE ON A BIENNIAL BASIS ON THE LICENSEE'S MONTH OF BIRTH; AND TO REDEFINE THE ELEMENTS OF "DECEIVE OR DEALT UNJUSTLY WITH THE CITIZENS OF THE STATE"; TO AMEND SECTIONS 38-45-20, 38-45-30, BOTH AS AMENDED, AND SECTION 38-45-90, ALL RELATING TO BROKERS AND SURPLUS LINES, SO AS TO REQUIRE A PROPERTY AND CASUALTY-LICENSED INSURANCE PRODUCER TO PASS THE SOUTH CAROLINA BROKER LICENSING EXAMINATION IN ORDER TO BE LICENSED AS A BROKER AND TO PROVIDE PAYMENT OF THE BROKER'S PREMIUM TAX; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 38-43-105 RELATING TO EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR LOCAL AND GENERAL PRODUCERS.
The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator THOMAS proposed the following amendment (DKA\3928DW08), which was adopted:

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

/SECTION   __.   Article 9, Chapter 73 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 38-73-1097.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the provisions of Section 38-73-1095(C) and Section 38-75-755 do not apply to an insurer who issues a single or dual interest coverage property insurance policy provided through, placed by, or obtained by the creditor, lender, finance company, financial institution, bank, mortgage company, or entity having a security interest in or mortgage on the property."/

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator THOMAS explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 1159 (Word version) -- Senator Lourie: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 61-4-90, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF BEER OR WINE FOR CONSUMPTION BY PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE, SO AS TO DELETE A REFERENCE IN ONE CODE SECTION FOR CLARIFICATION; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-4070, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE, SO AS TO DELETE A REFERENCE IN ONE CODE SECTION FOR CLARIFICATION; AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 20-7-8920 AND 20-7-8925, RELATING TO UNDERAGE PURCHASE, CONSUMPTION, OR POSSESSION OF BEER, WINE, OR ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS, SO AS TO ALLOW ESTABLISHMENTS TO USE PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE TO TEST COMPLIANCE.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator LOURIE proposed the following amendment (JUD1159.003), which was adopted:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Section 61-4-90 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 103 of 2007, is further amended to read:

"Section 61-4-90.   (A)   It is unlawful for a person to transfer or give to a person under the age of twenty-one years for the purpose of consumption of beer or wine in the State, unless the person under the age of twenty-one is recruited and authorized by a law enforcement agency to test a person's compliance with laws relating to the unlawful transfer or sale of beer and wine to a minor. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction:

(1)   for a first offense, must be fined not less than two hundred dollars nor more than three hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both; and

(2)   for a second or subsequent offense, must be fined not less than four hundred dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.

(B)   A person found guilty of a violation of Section 61-6-4070 and this section may not be sentenced under both sections for the same offense.

(C)   The provisions of this section do not apply to a:

(1)   spouse over the age of twenty-one giving beer or wine to his spouse under the age of twenty-one in their home;

(2)   parent or guardian over the age of twenty-one giving beer or wine to his children or wards under the age of twenty-one in their home; or

(3)   person giving beer or wine to another person under the age of twenty-one in conjunction with a religious ceremony or purpose if the beer or wine was lawfully purchased.

(D)   A person eighteen years of age and over lawfully employed to serve or remove beer, wine, or alcoholic beverages in establishments licensed to sell these beverages are not considered to be in unlawful possession of the beverages during the course and scope of their duties as an employee. The provisions of this subsection do not affect the requirement that a bartender must be at least twenty-one years of age.

(E)   This section does not apply to an employee lawfully engaged in the sale or delivery of these beverages in an unopened container.

(F)   The provisions of this section do not apply to a student who:

(1)   is eighteen years of age or older;

(2)   is enrolled in an accredited college or university and a student in a culinary course that has been approved through review by the State Commission on Higher Education;

(3)   is required to taste, but not consume or imbibe, any beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage as part of the required curriculum; and

(4)   tastes a beverage pursuant to item (3) only for instructional purposes during classes that are part of the curriculum of the accredited college or university.

The beverage must remain at all times in the possession and control of an authorized instructor of the college or university who must be twenty-one years of age or older. Nothing in this subsection may be construed to allow a student under the age of twenty-one to receive any beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage unless the beverage is delivered as part of the student's required curriculum and the beverage is used only for instructional purposes during classes conducted pursuant to the curriculum.

(G)   The South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division, within sixty days of testing an establishment, shall post on its Internet website the results of a test to check an establishment's compliance with this section."

SECTION   2.   Section 61-6-4070 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 103 of 2007, is further amended to read:

"Section 61-6-4070.   (A)   It is unlawful for a person to transfer or give to a person under the age of twenty-one years for the purpose of consumption of alcoholic liquors in the State unless the person under the age of twenty-one is recruited and authorized by a law enforcement agency to test a person's compliance with laws relating to the unlawful transfer or sale of alcoholic liquors to a minor. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction:

(1)   for a first offense, must be fined not less than two hundred dollars nor more than three hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both; and

(2)   for a second or subsequent offense, must be fined not less than four hundred dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.

(B)   A person found guilty of a violation of Section 61-4-90 and this section may not be sentenced under both sections for the same offense.

(C)   The provisions of this section do not apply to a:

(1)   spouse over the age of twenty-one giving alcoholic liquors to his spouse under the age of twenty-one in their home;

(2)   parent or guardian over the age of twenty-one giving alcoholic liquors to his children or wards under the age of twenty-one in their home; or

(3)   person giving alcoholic liquors to another person under the age of twenty-one in conjunction with a religious ceremony or purpose if the alcoholic liquors were lawfully purchased.

(D)   A person eighteen years of age and over lawfully employed to serve or remove beer, wine, or alcoholic beverages in establishments licensed to sell these beverages are not considered to be in unlawful possession of the beverages during the course and scope of their duties as an employee. The provisions of this subsection do not affect the requirement that a bartender must be at least twenty-one years of age.

(E)   This section does not apply to an employee lawfully engaged in the sale or delivery of these beverages in an unopened container.

(F)   The provisions of this section do not apply to a student who:

(1)   is eighteen years of age or older;

(2)   is enrolled in an accredited college or university and a student in a culinary course that has been approved through review by the State Commission on Higher Education;

(3)   is required to taste, but not consume or imbibe, any beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage as part of the required curriculum; and

(4)   tastes a beverage pursuant to item (3) only for instructional purposes during classes that are part of the curriculum of the accredited college or university.

The beverage must remain at all times in the possession and control of an authorized instructor of the college or university who must be twenty-one years of age or older. Nothing in this subsection may be construed to allow a student under the age of twenty-one to receive any beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage unless the beverage is delivered as part of the student's required curriculum and the beverage is used only for instructional purposes during classes conducted pursuant to the curriculum.

(G)   The South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division, within sixty days of testing an establishment, shall post on its Internet website the results of a test to check an establishment's compliance with this section."

SECTION   3.   Section 20-7-8920(F) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 103 of 2007, is amended to read:

"(F)   The provisions of this section do not apply to a person under the age of twenty-one who is recruited and authorized by a law enforcement agency or an establishment that sells beer or wine to test an establishment's compliance with laws relating to the unlawful transfer or sale of beer or wine to a minor. The testing must be under the direct supervision of a law enforcement agency or the establishment that sells beer or wine, and the agency must have the person's parental consent."

SECTION   4.   Section 20-7-8925(E) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 103 of 2007, is amended to read:

"(E)   The provisions of this section do not apply to a person under the age of twenty-one who is recruited and authorized by a law enforcement agency or an establishment that sells alcoholic liquors to test an establishment's compliance with the laws relating to the unlawful transfer or sale of alcoholic liquors to a minor. The testing must be under the direct supervision of a law enforcement agency or the establishment that sells alcoholic liquors, and the agency must have the person's parental consent."

SECTION   5.     Section 61-4-50 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 103 of 2007, is further amended to read:

"Section 61-4-50.   (A)   It is unlawful for a person to sell beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage to a person under twenty-one years of age. A person who makes a sale in violation of this section, upon conviction:

(1)   for a first offense, must be fined not less than two hundred dollars nor more than three hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both; and

(2)   for a second or subsequent offense, must be fined not less than four hundred dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.

(B)   At the time the person who has unlawfully sold beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage to a person under twenty-one years of age is notified of the violation, the owner, manager, or supervisor of the retail establishment also must be notified of the violation.

(C)   The South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division, within sixty days of testing an establishment, shall post on its Internet website the results of a test to check an establishment's compliance with this section.

(D)   Failure of a person to require identification to verify a person's age is prima facie evidence of the violation of this section.

(C)(E)   A person who violates the provisions of this section also is required to successfully complete a DAODAS approved merchant alcohol enforcement education program. The program must be a minimum of two hours and the cost to the person may not exceed fifty dollars."

SECTION   6.   Section 61-6-4080 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by act 103 of 2007, is further amended to read:

"Section 61-6-4080.   (A)   A person engaged in the sale of alcoholic liquors who knowingly sells the alcoholic liquors to a person under the age of twenty-one is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction:

(1)   for a first offense, must be fined not less than two hundred dollars nor more than three hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both; and

(2)   for a second or subsequent offense, must be fined not less than four hundred dollars nor more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.

(B)   At the time the person who has unlawfully sold alcoholic liquors to a person under twenty-one years of age is notified of the violation, the owner, manager, or supervisor of the retail establishment also must be notified of the violation.

(C)   The South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division, within sixty days of testing an establishment, shall post on its Internet website the results of a test to check an establishment compliance with this section.

(D)   Failure of a person to require identification to verify a person's age is prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.

(C)(E)   A person who violates the provisions of this section also is required to successfully complete a DAODAS approved merchant alcohol enforcement education program. The program must be a minimum of two hours and the cost to the person may not exceed fifty dollars."

SECTION   7.   Section 61-4-1910(1) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 103 of 2007, is amended to read:

"(1)   'Keg' means a metal container of beer with a capacity of 5.16 gallons or more that is designed to dispense beer directly from the container in an off-premises location."

SECTION   8.   Section 61-6-20(2) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 386 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"(2)   'Bona fide engaged primarily and substantially in the preparation and serving of meals' means a business which has been issued a Grade A retail establishment food permit prior to issuance of a license under Article 5 of this chapter, and in additionthat provides facilities for seating not lessfewer than forty persons simultaneously at tables for the service of meals that:

(a)   is equipped with a kitchen that is utilized for the cooking, preparation, and serving of meals upon customer request at normal mealtimes;

(b)   has readily available to its guests and patrons either menus with the listing of various meals offered for service or a listing of available meals and foods posted in a conspicuous place readily discernible by the guests or patrons; and

(c)   prepares for service to customers, upon the demand of the customers, hot meals at least once each day the business establishment chooses to be open."

SECTION   9.   Section 61-6-1610 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 386 of 2006, is further amended by adding an appropriately lettered subsection at the end to read:

"( )   For purposes of this section:

(1)   'Kitchen means a separate and distinct area of the business establishment that is used only for the preparation, serving, and disposal of solid foods that make up meals. The area must be adequately equipped for cooking, serving, and storage of solid foods and must include at least twenty-one cubic feet of refrigerated space for food and a stove.

(2)   'Meal' means an assortment of various prepared foods available to guests on the licensed premises during the normal mealtimes that occur when the licensed business establishment is open to the public. Sandwiches, boiled eggs, sausages, and other snacks prepared off the licensed premises but sold there are not a meal within the meaning of this section.

(3)   'Primarily' means that the serving of the meals by a business establishment is a regular source of business to the licensed establishment, that meals are served upon the demand of the guests and patrons during the normal mealtimes that occur when the licensed business establishment is open to the public, and that an adequate supply of food is present on the licensed premises to meet the demand."

SECTION   10.   Section 20-7-8920(A) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 103 of 2007, is further amended to read:

"(A)   It is unlawful for a person under the age of twenty-one to purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, or knowingly possess beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage. Possession is prima facie evidence that it was knowingly possessed. Notwithstanding another provision of law, if the law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe that a person is under age twenty-one and has consumed alcohol, the law enforcement officer must request that the person submit to any available alcohol screening test using a device approved by the State Law Enforcement Division. A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than one hundred dollars nor more than two hundred dollars or must be imprisoned for not more than thirty days, or both."

SECTION   11.   Section 20-7-8925(A) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 103 of 2007, is further amended to read:

"(A)   It is unlawful for a person under the age of twenty-one to purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, or knowingly possess alcoholic liquors. Possession is prima facie evidence that it was knowingly possessed. It is also unlawful for a person to falsely represent his age for the purpose of procuring alcoholic liquors. Notwithstanding another provision of law, if the law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe that a person is under age twenty-one and has consumed alcohol, the law enforcement officer must request that the person submit to any available alcohol screening test using a device approved by the State Law Enforcement Division. "

SECTION   12.   The repeal or amendment by this act of any law, whether temporary or permanent or civil or criminal, does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities founded thereon, or alter, discharge, release or extinguish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under the repealed or amended law, unless the repealed or amended provision shall so expressly provide. After the effective date of this act, all laws repealed or amended by this act must be taken and treated as remaining in full force and effect for the purpose of sustaining any pending or vested right, civil action, special proceeding, criminal prosecution, or appeal existing as of the effective date of this act, and for the enforcement of rights, duties, penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities as they stood under the repealed or amended laws.

SECTION   13.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LOURIE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 1171 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler and Setzler: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-900 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE LISTING AND RETURNING OF PERSONAL PROPERTY, TO PROVIDE THAT A MANUFACTURER IS NOT REQUIRED TO LIST OR RETURN PERSONAL PROPERTY FOR AD VALOREM TAX PURPOSES IF THE PROPERTY REMAINS IN THIS STATE BUT HAS NOT BEEN USED IN OPERATIONS FOR THE ENTIRE REPORTING PERIOD OF THE MANUFACTURER.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (1171R002.CBH), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   ___.   Section 12-10-88(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   Redevelopment fees may be remitted to the applicable redevelopment authority for a period beginning with the date that the applicable redevelopment authority first submits the information described in subsection (B) to the department and ending on the earlier of fifteen years later or January 1, 2015, whichever occurs last. If the redevelopment authority fails to provide the department with the required statement within the requisite time limits, no redevelopment fees must be remitted for that quarter."   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator LEATHERMAN proposed the following amendment (1171R008.HKL), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, beginning on page 2 and ending on page 3, by deleting SECTION 2.A.1 and 2.A.2.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, beginning on page 12 and ending on page 14, by deleting SECTION 2.L.1. through 2.M.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by deleting SECTION 4.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 24, by striking lines 39 and 40 and inserting:

/     12-21-2420 of the 1976 Code, there is also exempt from that tax for ten years beginning July 1, 2008, one-half of the paid admissions to a   /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, beginning on page 28 and ending on page 38, SECTION 6, by deleting Parts II and III.

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

/     SECTION   ___.   Chapter 62, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

Section 12-62-10.   This chapter may be cited as the 'South Carolina Motion Picture Incentive Act'.

Section 12-62-20.   For purposes of this chapter:

(1)   'Company' means a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or other business entity.

(2)   'Department' means the South Carolina Department of Commerce Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

(3)   'Motion picture' means a feature-length film, video, television series, or commercial made in whole or in part in South Carolina, and intended for national theatrical or television viewing or as a television pilot produced by a motion picture production company. The term 'motion picture' does not include the production of television coverage of news and athletic events or a production produced by a motion picture production company if records, as required by 18 U.S.C. 2257, are to be maintained by that motion picture production company with respect to any performer portrayed in that single media or multimedia program.

(4)   'Motion picture production company' means a company engaged in the business of producing motion pictures intended for a national theatrical release or for television viewing. 'Motion picture production company' does not mean or include a company owned, affiliated, or controlled, in whole or in part, by a company or person that is in default on a loan made by the State or a loan guaranteed by the State.

(5)   'Payroll' means salary, wages, or other compensation subject to South Carolina income tax withholdings.

(6)   "Secretary" "Director" means the Secretary of the Department of Commerce Director of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, or his designee.

Section 12-62-30.   A motion picture production company that intends to expend in the aggregate two hundred fifty thousand dollars or more in connection with the filming or production of one or more motion pictures in the State of South Carolina within a consecutive twelve-month period, upon making application for, meeting the requirements of, and receiving written certification of that designation from the department as provided in this chapter, shall be relieved from the payment of state and local sales and use taxes administered and collected by the Department of Revenue on funds expended in South Carolina in connection with the filming or production of a motion picture or pictures. The production of television coverage of news and athletic events is specifically excluded from the provisions of this chapter.

Section 12-62-40.   (A)   A motion picture production company that intends to film all or parts of a motion picture in South Carolina and desires to be relieved from the payment of the state and local sales and use taxes, administered and collected by the Department of Revenue, as provided in this chapter shall provide an estimate of total expenditures expected to be made in South Carolina in connection with the filming or production of the motion picture. The estimate of expenditures must be filed with the department before the commencement of filming in South Carolina.

(B)   At the time the motion picture production company provides the estimate of expenditures to the department, it also shall designate a member or representative of the motion picture production company to work with the department and the Department of Revenue on reporting of expenditures and other information necessary to take advantage of the tax relief afforded by this chapter.

(C)(1)   An application for the tax relief provided by this chapter must be accepted only from those motion picture production companies that report anticipated expenditures in the State in the aggregate equal to or exceeding two hundred fifty thousand dollars in connection with the filming or production of one or more motion pictures in the State within a consecutive twelve-month period.

(2)   The application must be approved by the secretary director.

(3)   Once the application is approved by the secretary director, the Department of Revenue shall issue a sales and use tax exemption certificate to the motion picture production company as evidence of the exemption. The exemption is effective on the date the application is approved by the secretary director.

(D)   A motion picture production company that is approved and receives a sales and use tax exemption certificate but fails to expend two hundred fifty thousand dollars within a consecutive twelve-month period is liable for the sales and use taxes that would have been paid had the approval not been granted; except, that the motion picture production company must be given a sixty-day period in which to pay the sales and use taxes without incurring penalties. The sales and use taxes are considered due as of the date the tangible personal property was purchased in or brought into South Carolina for use, storage, or consumption.

(E)   Upon completion of the motion picture, the motion picture production company must return the sales and use tax exemption certificate to the Department of Revenue and submit a report to the department of the actual expenditures made in South Carolina in connection with the filming or production of the motion picture.

Section 12-62-50.   (A)(1)   The South Carolina Film Commission may rebate to a motion picture production company a portion of the South Carolina payroll of the employment of persons subject to South Carolina income tax withholdings in connection with production of a motion picture. The rebate may not exceed fifteen percent of the total aggregate South Carolina payroll for persons subject to South Carolina income tax withholdings employed in connection with the production when total production costs in South Carolina equal or exceed one million dollars during the taxable year. The rebates in total may not annually exceed ten million dollars and shall come from the state's general fund. For purposes of this section, 'total aggregate payroll' does not include the salary of an employee whose salary is equal to or greater than one million dollars for each motion picture.

(2)(a)   For purposes of this section, an employee is an individual directly involved in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina and who is an employee of a:

(i)     motion picture production company that is directly involved in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina; or

(ii)   personal service corporation retained by a motion picture production company to provide persons used directly in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina; or

(iii)   payroll services or loan out company that is retained by a motion picture production company to provide employees who work directly in the filming or post-production of a motion picture in South Carolina.

(b)   For his wages to qualify for the rebate, the employee must be certified by the department as a qualifying employee and the employee must have had South Carolina income tax withholding withheld and remitted to the Department of Revenue by a company described in item (2)(a).

(3)   The rebate applies with respect to an employee described in subitem (a)(ii) or (iii) only if, before commencement of filming in South Carolina, the personal services corporation, payroll services company, or loan out company is approved and certified by the department, and makes an irrevocable assignment of its rebate to the motion picture production company that produced the motion picture. The assignment must be made on a form provided by the Department of Revenue, which must include a waiver of confidentiality pursuant to Section 12-54-240. Upon assignment, the rebate may be paid only to the motion picture production company.

(B)(1)   The rebate provided in subsection (A) is available to the motion picture production company at the end of all filming in South Carolina in connection with the motion picture. The motion picture production company producing the motion picture must apply to the department for a certificate of completion once filming in South Carolina is complete. The motion picture production company must provide the information the department considers necessary to determine if the one million dollar expenditure requirement has been met.

(2)   A motion picture production company may claim the rebate by filing a request for rebate with the department once the certificate of completion is obtained. The request for rebate must be filed by the last day of February of the year following the year in which the certificate of completion is obtained. To claim the rebate, the motion picture production company and all companies described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii) must be current with respect to all taxes due and owing the State at the time of filing the request for rebate. If the motion picture production company or a company described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii) is not current with respect to all taxes due and owing the State, the motion picture production company is permanently barred from claiming the rebate.

(3)   The motion picture production company must attach to its request for rebate a copy of the certificate of completion and a copy of all assignments of the rebate, if applicable.

(C)   A motion picture production company claiming a rebate pursuant to this section, and all companies described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii), must make payroll books and records available for inspection to the commission and the department at the times requested by the commission or the department. Each motion picture production company claiming the rebate, at the time of filing, must provide a report to both the commission and the department that includes the project's name, the name of each employee that worked on the motion picture, the social security number for each employee, the dates employed, the dates the employee worked on the motion picture, a job description for each employee, the total gross wages for each employee, the South Carolina taxable wages subject to withholding for each employee, the amount of rebate attributable to that employee, and other information considered necessary by the commission or the department. The report also must contain the total amount of withholding attributable to all employees that worked on the motion picture in South Carolina.

(D)   For purposes of this section, and as an exception to Section 12-54-240, a motion picture production company and a company described in subsection (A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii) agree that the commission and the department may share or provide information concerning the request for rebate and the certificate of completion among the respective taxpayers and the respective agencies.

Section 12-62-55.   At the time the motion picture production company is certified by the department, it may make, with the approval of the coordinating council, an irrevocable assignment of future payments attributable to the rebates made pursuant to Section 12-62-40 or 12-62-50 to a designated trustee. For purposes of this chapter, 'designated trustee' means the single financier or financial institution designated by the council to receive all assignments of payments made pursuant to this chapter and to the terms of an agreement entered into by the qualifying motion picture production company. If a qualifying motion picture production company elects to assign payments to the designated trustee, the election must be made on a form provided by the department, including a waiver of confidentiality pursuant to Section 12-54-240, and the payments may be paid only to the designated trustee. The qualifying motion picture production company must file an application for the assignment with the secretary director no later than thirty days after filming begins in South Carolina.

Section 12-62-60.   (A)(1)   An amount equal to twenty-six percent of the general fund portion of admissions tax collected by the State of South Carolina for the previous fiscal year must be funded annually by September first to the department for the exclusive use of the South Carolina Film Commission. The department may rebate to a motion picture production company up to fifteen percent of the expenditures made by the motion picture production company in the State if the motion picture production company has a minimum in-state expenditure of one million dollars. The distribution of rebates may not exceed the amount annually funded to the department for the South Carolina Film Commission from the admissions tax collected by the State.

(2)   This subsection does not apply to payroll paid for motion picture production employees subject to Section 12-62-50 or money paid to the companies described in Section 12-62-50(A)(2)(a)(ii) or (iii). Unexpended funds from this source may be carried over to the next and succeeding fiscal years.

(B)   Up to seven percent of the amount provided to the department in subsection (A) may be used exclusively for marketing and special events.

(C)   The allocations to motion picture production companies contemplated by this chapter must be made by the Coordinating Council for Economic Development department. The Coordinating Council for Economic Development department may adopt rules and promulgate regulations for the application for and award of the rebate.

(D)   One percent of the general fund portion of admissions tax collected by the State of South Carolina must be funded to the department for the exclusive use of the South Carolina Film Commission for the promotion of collaborative production and educational efforts between institutions of higher learning in South Carolina and motion picture related entities. The department, in conjunction with the South Carolina Film Commission, shall adopt rules and promulgate regulations necessary to administer this Section. Unexpended funds from this source may be carried over to the next and succeeding fiscal years.

(E)   The department shall report annually to the coordinating council Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee on the use of all funds pursuant to this Section. The report is a public record pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, Chapter 4 of Title 30, and must be posted annually on the commission's website by January first.

Section 12-62-70.   (A)(1)   Upon a determination by the Director of the Office of General Services Division of the South Carolina Budget and Control Board of the underutilization of state property by a state agency, the department may negotiate below-market rates for temporary use, no more than twelve months, of space for the underutilized property. The negotiations and temporary use are exempt from the provisions of the State Consolidated Procurement Code. The motion picture production company shall reimburse costs at normal and customary rates incurred by the state agency to the state agency, including costs required to repair any damage caused by the motion picture production company to real or personal property of the State.

(2)   The state agency or local political subdivision that owns the property determined to be underutilized may appeal that determination of underutilization to the Budget and Control Board.

(B)   The State or its political subdivisions may not charge a location or facility fee for properties they own if the properties are used for seven or fewer days as a location or facility in the production of a motion picture. A property may be used for a total of only twenty-one days without location or facility fees in a calendar year. The motion picture production company may be on site no longer than seven days within a thirty-day period without a location or facility fee charge. State-owned or political subdivision-owned properties may recoup all costs they expend on behalf and at the direction of the motion picture production company. State-owned or political subdivision- owned properties also may recoup a location or facility fee, after the first seven days, not to exceed two thousand five hundred dollars a day. State- owned or political subdivision-owned properties also may recoup costs required to repair damage caused by the motion picture production company to real or personal property of the state agency or political subdivision. The motion picture production company shall reimburse all costs, at the property' s normal and customary rates, to the state agency or political subdivisions incurring the costs within twenty-one calendar days of completion of production activities on site. The motion picture production company may use the publicly-owned property only on the days agreed to and approved by the state agency or political subdivision.

Section 12-62-80.   The department may form a South Carolina Film Foundation to solicit donations for the recruitment of motion pictures in furtherance of the purposes of this chapter.

Section 12-62-90.   The end credit roll of a motion picture that utilizes a South Carolina tax credit or rebate must recognize the State of South Carolina with the following statement: "Filmed in South Carolina pursuant to the South Carolina Motion Picture Incentive Act", except that the State of South Carolina reserves the right to refuse the use of South Carolina's name in the credits of a motion picture filmed or produced in the State.

Section 12-62-100.   To the extent not already provided, the department may adopt rules and promulgate regulations to carry out the intent and purposes of this chapter."         /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the amendment.

Senator ALEXANDER proposed the following amendment (1171R009.TCA), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   ___.   A.   Section 12-43-350 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 12-43-350.   Affected political subdivisions must use a tax bill for real property which that contains standard information as follows:

(1)   tax year;

(2)   tax map number;

(3)   property location;

(4)   appraised value, taxable;

(5)   tax amount;

(6)   state homestead tax exemption pursuant to Section 12-37-250, if applicable;

(7)   state property tax relief, if applicable homestead tax exemption pursuant to Section 12-37-220(B)(47) and the estimated value of the exemption and the amount of any credit against the property tax liability for county operations on owner-occupied residential property attributable to an excess balance in the Homestead Exemption Fund;

(8)   local option sales tax credit, if applicable;

(9)   any applicable fees;

(10)   total tax due;

(11)   tax due with penalties and applicable dates;

(12)   prior year amount paid-only required to be shown if assessment is unchanged from prior year, except during reassessment years, in which case all properties must show the prior year tax amount.

The information required pursuant to this section must be contained in a 'boxed' area measuring at least three inches square placed on the right side of the tax bill."

B.   This section takes effect upon approval by the Governor and applies for property tax years beginning after 2007.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ALEXANDER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator CLEARY proposed the following amendment (1171R010.REC), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   ___.   Section 12-37-714(2) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 386 of 2006, is amended to read:

"(2)   A boat, including its motor if the motor is separately taxed, which is not currently taxed in this State and is not used exclusively in interstate commerce, is subject to property tax in this State if it is present within this State for sixty consecutive days or for ninety days in the aggregate in a property tax year, or upon an ordinance passed by the local governing body, one hundred eighty days in the aggregate in a property tax year. Upon written request by a tax official, the owner must provide documentation or logs relating to the whereabouts of the boat in question. Failure to produce requested documents creates a rebuttable presumption that the boat in question is taxable within this State."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

The amendment was adopted.

Senator HUTTO proposed the following amendment (1171R011.CBH), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 3, by adding a new subsection at the end of Section 12-64-40 to read:

/     "( )   A taxpayer is not eligible for the credit if the taxpayer owned the otherwise eligible textile mill site when the site was operational and immediately prior to its abandonment.           /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HUTTO explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 530 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO ENACT THE PROVISO CODIFICATION ACT OF 2007, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CODIFICATION IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS OF CERTAIN PROVISOS CONTAINED IN THE ANNUAL GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER PROVISIONS RELATED TO THE ANNUAL GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT EFFECTIVE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007-2008 ONLY.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator LEATHERMAN proposed the following amendment (530R009.HKL), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, in Part 1, as contained in SECTION 2, beginning on page 5, by striking subpart I and inserting:

/ I.1.     (1A.45)   Section 59-26-20(j) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 307 of 2004, is further amended to read:

"(j)   the Commission on Higher Education, in consultation with the State Department of Education and the staff of the South Carolina Student Loan Corporation, shall develop a loan program whereby in which talented and qualified state residents may be provided loans to attend public or private colleges and universities for the sole purpose and intent of becoming certified teachers employed in the State in areas of critical need. Areas of critical need shall include both geographic areas and areas of teacher certification and must be defined annually for that purpose by the State Board of Education. The definitions used in the federal Perkins Loan Program shall serve as the basis for defining 'critical geographical areas', which shall include special schools, alternative schools, and correctional centers as identified by the State Board of Education. The recipient of a loan is entitled to have up to one hundred percent of the amount of the loan plus the interest canceled if he becomes certified and teaches in an area of critical need. Should the area of critical need that in which the loan recipient is teaching in be reclassified during the time of cancellation, the cancellation shall continue as though the critical need area had not changed. Additionally, beginning with the 2000-2001 school year, a teacher with a teacher loan through the South Carolina Student Loan Corporation shall qualify, if the teacher is teaching in an area newly designated as a critical needs area (geographic or subject, or both). Previous loan payments shall will not be reimbursed. The Department of Education and the local school district shall be are responsible for annual distribution of the critical needs list. It shall be is the responsibility of the teacher to request loan cancellation through service in a critical needs area to the Student Loan Corporation by November 1.

Beginning July 1, 2000, the loan must be canceled at the rate of twenty percent or three thousand dollars, whichever is greater, of the total principal amount of the loan plus interest on the unpaid balance for each complete year of teaching service in either an academic critical need area or in a geographic need area. The loan must be canceled at the rate of thirty-three and one-third percent, or five thousand dollars, whichever is greater, of the total principal amount of the loan plus interest on the unpaid balance for each complete year of teaching service in both an academic critical need area and a geographic need area. Beginning July 1, 2000, all loan recipients teaching in the public schools of South Carolina but not in an academic or geographic critical need area are to be charged an interest rate below that charged to loan recipients who do not teach in South Carolina.

Additional loans to assist with college and living expenses shall must be made available for talented and qualified state residents attending public or private colleges and universities in this State for the sole purpose and intent of changing careers in order to become certified teachers employed in the State in areas of critical need. These loan funds also may be used for the cost of participation in the critical needs certification program pursuant to Section 59-26-30(A)(8). Such loans must be cancelled under the same conditions and at the same rates as other critical need loans.

In case of failure to make a scheduled repayment of any an installment, failure to apply for cancellation of deferment of the loan on time, or noncompliance by a borrower with the intent of the loan, the entire unpaid indebtedness including accrued interest, at the option of the commission, shall become immediately due and payable. The recipient shall execute the necessary legal documents to reflect his obligation and the terms and conditions of the loan. The loan program, if implemented, pursuant to the South Carolina Education Improvement Act, is to be administered by the South Carolina Student Loan Corporation. Funds generated from repayments to the loan program must be retained in a separate account and utilized as a revolving account for the purpose that the funds were originally appropriated. Appropriations for loans and administrative costs incurred by the corporation are to be provided in annual amounts, recommended by the Commission on Higher Education, to the State Treasurer for use by the corporation. The Education Oversight Committee shall review the loan program annually and report to the General Assembly;.

Notwithstanding another provision of this item:

(1)   For a student seeking loan forgiveness pursuant to the Teacher Loan Program after July 1, 2004, 'critical geographic area' must be is defined as a school that:

(a)   has an absolute rating of below average or unsatisfactory;

(b)   has an average teacher turnover rate for the past three years that is twenty percent or higher; or

(c)   meets the poverty index criteria at the seventy percent level or higher.

(2)   After July 1, 2004, a student shall have his loan forgiven based on those schools or districts designated as critical geographic areas at the time of employment.

(3)   The definition of critical geographic area must not change for a student who has a loan, or who is in the process of having a loan forgiven before July 1, 2004."

2.   This subpart takes effect July 1, 2008. /

Amend further, in Part 1A, as contained in SECTION 2, beginning on page 9, by striking subpart B and C and inserting:

/   B.     Section 59-18-710 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 59-18-710.   By November, 2000, the State Board of Education, working with the Department of Education and recommendations from the Accountability Division, must promulgate regulations outlining the criteria for the state's accreditation system which must include student academic performance. The State Department of Education shall provide recommendations regarding the state's accreditation system to the State Board of Education. The recommendations must be derived from input received from broad-based stakeholder groups. In developing the criteria for the accreditation system, the State Board of Education shall consider including the function of school improvement councils and other school decision-making groups and their participation in the school planning process."

C.1.   (1A.41)   Article 9, Chapter 18, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 59-18-930.   Beginning in 2001 and annually thereafter the   The State Department of Education must issue the executive summary of the report cards card annually to all schools and districts of the State no later than November first. The executive summary shall be printed in black and white, be no more than two pages, use graphical displays whenever possible, and contain National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores as well as national scores. The report card summary must be mailed made available to all parents of the school and the school district.

The school, in conjunction with the district board, must also inform the community of the school's report card by advertising the results in at least one South Carolina daily newspaper of general circulation in the area. This notice must be published within ninety forty-five days of receipt of the report cards issued by the State Department of Education and must be a minimum of two columns by ten inches (four and one-half by ten inches) with at least a twenty-four point bold headline."

2.   This subpart takes effect July 1, 2008. /

Amend further, in Part 1A, as contained in SECTION 2, page 10, by striking subpart E.

Amend further, in Part 4, page 12, by adding a new subpart to read:

/C.1.   (21.25)A.   Chapter 6, Title 44 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

Section 44-6-1010.   There is created within the Department of Health and Human Services the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. The committee must consist of fifteen members appointed by the director and serving at the pleasure of the director of the department. The members must include eleven physicians and four pharmacists licensed to practice in South Carolina and actively engaged in providing services to the South Carolina Medicaid population. The physicians may include, but are not limited to, doctors who have experience in treating diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS, mental illness, and hemophilia and who practice in internal medicine, primary care, and pediatrics.

Section 44-6-1020.   The committee shall adopt bylaws that include, at a minimum, the length of membership. A chairman and a vice chairman shall be elected on an annual basis from the committee membership. Committee members must not be compensated for service to the committee. However, committee members may be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred by discharging committee duties in an amount not to exceed the mileage and subsistence amounts allowed by law for members of boards, commissions, and committees. The committee must meet at least quarterly and may meet at other times in the chairman's or the director's discretion. Committee meetings are subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. The department shall publish notice of regular business meetings of the committee at least thirty days before the meeting. However, the director or chairman may call special meetings of the committee and provide notice as soon as practical. The committee must provide for public comment, including comment on clinical and patient care data from Medicaid providers, representatives of the pharmaceutical industry, and patient advocacy groups. Proprietary information as defined in the trade secret law shall not be discussed. Trade secrets as defined in Section 30-4-40(a)(1) and relevant federal law must not be publicly disclosed.

Section 44-6-1030.   The committee must recommend to the department therapeutic classes of drugs that should be included on a preferred drug list. For those recommended classes, the committee shall recommend the drug or drugs considered preferred within that class based on safety and efficacy. In determining safety and efficacy, the committee may consider all submitted public comment or clinical information including, but not limited to, scientific evidence, standards of practice, peer-reviewed medical literature, randomized clinical trials, pharmacoeconomic studies, and outcomes research data. The committee also shall recommend prior authorization criteria for non-preferred drugs in the recommended therapeutic classes.

Section 44-6-1040.   Any preferred drug list program implemented by the department must include:

(1)   procedures to ensure that a request for prior authorization that has no material defect or impropriety can be processed within twenty-four hours of receipt;

(2)   procedures to allow the prescribing physician to request and receive notice of any delays or negative decision in regard to a prior authorization;

(3)   procedures to allow the prescribing physician to request and receive a second review of any denial of a prior authorization request; and

(4)   procedures to allow a pharmacist to dispense an emergency, seventy-two hour supply of a drug requiring prior authorization without prior authorization if the pharmacist:

(a)   has made a reasonable attempt to contact the physician and request that the prescribing physician secure prior authorization; and

(b)   reasonably believes that refusing to dispense a seventy-two-hour supply would unduly burden the Medicaid recipient and produce undesirable health consequences.

Section 44-6-1050.   A grant of prior authorization for a drug is specific to the drug, rather than the actual prescription, and extends to all refills allowed pursuant to the original prescription and to subsequent prescriptions for the same drug at the same dosage provided the time allowed by the prior authorization has not expired. A Medicaid recipient who has been denied prior authorization for a prescribed drug is entitled to appeal this decision through the department's appeals process."

2.   This subpart takes effect on July 1, 2008.

Amend further, in Part 13, as contained in SECTION 1, page 28, by striking subpart F and inserting:

/ F.1.   (66.17)   Section 56-3-2010(B) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(B)   Private passenger motor vehicles must be assigned a biennial registration which expires on a staggered monthly basis. Where a current vehicle license plate currently is displayed, the owner of the vehicle may make application for personalized license plates two months in advance of the current registration expiration. A sticker reflecting the month of expiration of registration must be issued and affixed in the space provided on the license plate assigned to the vehicle. A personalized license plate issued to a motorcycle expires November thirtieth two years after issuance. Every personalized license plate issued to members of the General Assembly and members of licensed state or federal commissions and boards expires on January thirty-first each year in which a new session of the General Assembly begins. Every vehicle registration must be renewed biennially upon application by the owner and by payment of the fee required by law to take effect the first day of the month following the expiration of the registration to be renewed."

2.   This subpart takes effect July 1, 2008. /

Amend further, in Part 32, beginning on page 84, by striking subpart C and inserting:

/ C.   (90.2)   Chapter 1, Title 14 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 14-1-212.   (A)   In addition to all other assessments and surcharges, a twenty-five dollar surcharge is imposed on all fines, forfeitures, escheatments, or other monetary penalties imposed in the general sessions court or in magistrates or municipal court for misdemeanor traffic offenses or for nontraffic violations. No portion of the surcharge may be waived, reduced, or suspended.

(B)(1)   The revenue collected pursuant to subsection (A) must be retained by the jurisdiction which heard or processed the case and paid to the State Treasurer within thirty days after receipt. The State Treasurer may retain in a fiscal year the actual cost associated with the collection of this surcharge not to exceed forty thousand dollars. The State Treasurer shall allocate and transfer quarterly the remaining revenue as follows:

(a)   18.50 percent quarterly to the Prosecution Coordination Commission for allocations to circuit solicitors in the manner provided pursuant to this subsection for the operations of solicitors' offices, a portion of which, at the option of a solicitor, may be used for drugs courts in the judicial circuit;

(b)   22.10 percent to the Department of Juvenile Justice for the Coastal Evaluation Center, for Assault Prevention, and other federal lawsuit related expenses;

(c)   15 percent to the State Law Enforcement Division for its general purposes;

(d)   15 percent to the Department of Corrections for its general purposes;

(e)   3.75 percent to the Attorney General's Office for its general purposes;

(f)   8.56 percent to the Judicial Department for its general purposes;

(g)   1.55 percent to the Department of Natural Resources for statewide police responsibilities;

(h)   1 percent to the Office of Indigent Defense, Division of Appellate Defense for its general purposes;

(i)     0.10 percent to the Forestry Commission for statewide police responsibilities; and

(j)   14.44 percent to the Department of Public Safety for the Highway patrol Division for equipment, vehicle purchases, and associated vehicle expenses, including maintenance and gasoline.

(2)   The State Treasurer shall transmit the portion of these funds earmarked for the solicitors' offices to the Prosecution Coordination Commission which then shall apportion these funds among the circuit solicitors of this State on a per capita basis equal to the population in that circuit compared to the population of the State as a whole based on the most recent official United States Census. Amounts generated by this section for use by solicitors' offices must be in addition to any amounts presently being provided by the county for these services and may not be used to supplant funding already allocated for these services by the county.

(C)   The State Treasurer may request the State Auditor to examine the financial records of any jurisdiction which he believes is not timely transmitting the funds required to be paid to the State Treasurer pursuant to subsection (B). The State Auditor is further authorized to conduct these examinations and the local jurisdiction is required to participate in and cooperate fully with the examination." /

Amend further in Part 32, beginning on page 85, by striking subpart D.

Amend further, page 86, by striking SECTION 6 and inserting:

/ SECTION   6.   An act of 2008 bearing ratification number 293, the general appropriations act for fiscal year 2008-2009, is amended in Part IB, by deleting paragraphs 80A.3 and 80A.38 in their entirety. /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HAYES spoke on the Bill.

Senator HAYES explained the amendment.

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

S. 605 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-1240, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DISPLAY OF A MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE PLATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF A MOTORCYCLE IS EQUIPPED WITH VERTICALLY MOUNTED LICENSE PLATE BRACKETS, ITS LICENSE PLATE MUST BE MOUNTED VERTICALLY WITH ITS TOP FASTENED ALONG ITS RIGHT VERTICAL EDGE.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator GROOMS proposed the following amendment (605R001.LKG), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 20 in its entirety and inserting the following new SECTIONS:

/   SECTION   20.   Section 56-1-130(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)   A basic driver's license authorizes the licensee to operate motor vehicles, automotive three-wheel vehicles, or combinations of vehicles which do not exceed twenty-six thousand pounds gross vehicle weight rating; provided, that the driver has successfully demonstrated the ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable control in the operation of a motor vehicle in this category. A basic driver's license also authorizes the licensee to operate farm trucks provided for in Sections 56-3-670, 56-3-680, and 56-3-690, which are used exclusively by the owner for agricultural, horticultural, and dairying operations or livestock and poultry raising. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the holder of a conditional license, or special restricted license operating a farm truck for the purposes provided in this subsection, may operate the farm truck without an accompanying adult after six o'clock a.m. and no later than nine o'clock p.m., but may not operate a farm truck on a freeway. A person operating a farm truck while holding a conditional driver's license or a special restricted license may not use the farm truck for ordinary domestic purposes or general transportation.

A classified driver's license shall authorize the licensee to operate a motorcycle or those vehicles in excess of twenty-six thousand pounds gross vehicle weight rating which are indicated by endorsement on the license. The endorsement may include classifications such as: motorcycle, motorcycle three-wheel vehicle, two-axle truck, three-or more axle truck, combination of vehicles, motor-busses, or oversize or overweight vehicles. The department shall determine from the driving demonstration the endorsements to be indicated on the license."

SECTION   21.   Section 56-3-2540 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 56-3-2540.   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which shall have imprinted on the plate 'Conserve South Carolina' and which may have an emblem, a seal, logo, or other symbol of the South Carolina Conservation Bank. The South Carolina Conservation Bank shall submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol it desires to be used for this special license plate. The South Carolina Conservation Bank may request a change in the emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol not more than once every five years. The fee for this special license plate is forty-eight dollars every two years in addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee set forth in Article 5, Chapter 3, Title 56 of the 1976 Code. This special license plate must be of the same size and general design of regular motor vehicle license plates. The special license plates must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month they are issued."

SECTION   22.   Section 56-3-3500(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Penn Center' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, a seal, or other symbol of the Penn Center. Penn Center, Inc., shall submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, or other symbol it desires to be used for this special license plate. Penn Center, Inc., may request a change in the emblem, seal, or other symbol not more than once every five years. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle registration fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of thirty dollars."

SECTION   23.     Section 56-3-4100(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which shall have imprinted on the plate the words 'South Carolina Elks Association'. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle license fee set forth in Article 5 and the special fee required by Section 56-3-2020. This special license plate must be of the same size and general design of regular motor vehicle license plates. The special license plates must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month they are issued."

SECTION   24.   Section 56-3-4200(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Carolina Panthers' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickup trucks having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plates an emblem, seal, or symbol of the National Football League's Carolina Panthers. The National Football League's Carolina Panthers shall submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, or symbol it desires to be used for the plates. The National Football League's Carolina Panthers shall submit to the department written authorization for the use of any copyrighted or registered logos, trademarks, or designs. The National Football League may request a change in the emblem, seal, or symbol not more than once every five years. The plates must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month they are issued. The fee for the plate is the regular motor vehicle registration fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of seventy dollars."

SECTION   25.   Section 56-3-4410(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Share the Road' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, a seal, or other symbol of the Palmetto Cycling Coalition, Inc. The Palmetto Cycling Coalition, Inc., shall submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, or other symbol it desires to be used for this special license plate. The Palmetto Cycling Coalition, Inc., may request a change in the emblem, seal, or other symbol not more than once every five years. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle registration fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of thirty dollars."

SECTION   26.     Section 56-3-4600(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Homeownership: The American Dream' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in the owners' names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, a seal, or other symbol approved by the South Carolina Association of Realtors and the department. The South Carolina Association of Realtors may submit to the department for approval the emblem, seal, or symbol the South Carolina Association of Realtors wishes to display on the plate. The association must submit to the department written authorization for the use of any copyrighted or registered logo, trademark, or design. The association may request a change in the emblem, seal, or symbol used not more than once in five years. Each special license plate must be of the same size and general design of regular motor vehicle license plates. Each special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month the special license plate is issued. The fee for each special license plate is the regular motor vehicle license fee set forth in Article 5 and one hundred dollars for a special plate."

SECTION   27.   Section 56-3-7300(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Saltwater Fishing' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle license fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of seventy-five dollars."

SECTION   28.   Section 56-3-7750(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of six thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, a seal, or other symbol the department considers appropriate to a certified service fraternity or sorority. A fraternity or sorority may submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, or other symbol it desires to be used for its respective special license plate. Before a design is approved, however, the organization must submit to the department written authorization for the use of any copyrighted or registered logo, trademark, or design. A fraternity or sorority also may request a change in the emblem, seal, or other symbol once the existing supply has been exhausted. The fee for this special license plate is seventy dollars every two years in addition to the regular motor vehicle license fee set forth in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title. This special license plate must be of the same size and general design of regular motor vehicle license plates. The special license plates must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month they are issued."

SECTION   29.   Section 56-3-7780(A) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 158 of 2005, is further amended to read:

"(A)   The department may issue 'Vietnam Veterans' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names who are Vietnam War Veterans who served on active duty in Vietnam at anytime during the period of February 28, 1961, to May 7, 1975. The motor vehicle owner must present the department with a DD214, or other official documentation that states that he was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal or that he served on active duty in Vietnam, along with his application for this special license plate. The special license plate may have imprinted on it an emblem, a seal, or other symbol that honors Vietnam War Veterans. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle registration fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of twenty dollars."

SECTION   30.   Section 56-3-7910(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of six thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, a seal, logo, or other symbol of the 'H. L. Hunley' submarine. The Hunley Commission shall submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol it desires to be used for this special license plate. The Hunley Commission may request a change in the emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol not more than once every five years. The fee for this special license plate is one hundred dollars every two years in addition to the regular motor vehicle registration fee set forth in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title. This special license plate must be of the same size and general design of regular motor vehicle license plates. The special license plates must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month they are issued."

SECTION   31.   Section 56-3-8000(A) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 398 of 2006, is further amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger motor vehicles as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate the emblem, a seal, or other symbol the department considers appropriate of an organization which has obtained certification pursuant to either Section 501(C)(3), 501(C)(7), or 501(C)(8) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code and maintained this certification for a period of five years. The biennial fee for this special license plate is the regular registration fee set forth in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title plus an additional fee to be requested by the individual or organization seeking issuance of the plate. The initial fee amount requested may be changed only every five years from the first year the plate is issued. Of the additional fee collected pursuant to this section, the Comptroller General shall place sufficient funds into a special restricted account to be used by the Department of Motor Vehicles to defray the expenses of producing and administering special license plates. Any of the remaining fee not placed in the restricted account must be distributed to an organization designated by the individual or organization seeking issuance of the license plate. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued."

SECTION   32.   Section 56-3-8600(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Ducks Unlimited' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private- passenger carrying private passenger motor vehicles or light pickup trucks having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on them an emblem, seal, or symbol of the South Carolina Ducks Unlimited State Committee. The South Carolina Ducks Unlimited State Committee must submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, or symbol it wishes to display on the plates. The South Carolina Ducks Unlimited State Committee must submit to the department written authorization for use of any copyrighted or registered logos, trademarks, or designs. The South Carolina Ducks Unlimited State Committee may request a change in the emblem, seal, or symbol not more than once every five years. The plates must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month they are issued. The fee for the plate is the regular motor vehicle registration fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of fifty dollars."

SECTION   33.   Section 56-3-8710(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger carrying motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plates an emblem, a seal, or other symbol the department considers appropriate to NASCAR or a NASCAR driver or team. NASCAR or a NASCAR driver or team may submit to the department for approval of the emblem, seal, or other symbol it desires to be used for its respective special license plate. Before a design is approved, NASCAR or the NASCAR driver or team must submit to the department written authorization for the use of a copyrighted or registered logo, trademark, or design. NASCAR or a NASCAR driver or team also may request a change in its respective emblem, seal, or other symbol once the existing supply has been exhausted. The fee for each special license plate is seventy dollars every two years in addition to the regular motor vehicle license fee set forth in Article 5. Each special license plate must be of the same size and general design of regular motor vehicle license plates. Each special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month the special license plate is issued."

SECTION   34.   Section 56-3-9000(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger carrying motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, a seal, or other symbol approved by Sertoma International and the department. Sertoma International may submit to the department for approval of the emblem, seal, or other symbol it desires to be used for its respective special license plate. Before a design is approved, however, Sertoma International must submit to the department written authorization for the use of a copyrighted or registered logo, trademark, or design. Sertoma International also may request a change in the emblem, seal, or other symbol once the existing supply has been exhausted. The fee for each special license plate is seventy dollars every two years in addition to the regular motor vehicle license fee set forth in Article 5. Each special license plate must be of the same size and general design of regular motor vehicle license plates. Each special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month the special license plate is issued."

SECTION   35.   Section 56-3-9100(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'South Carolina Technology Alliance' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol that represents the South Carolina Technology Alliance and technology. The South Carolina Technology Alliance must submit to the department for approval the emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol it desires to be used for this special license plate. The South Carolina Technology Alliance may request a change in the emblem, seal, logo, or other symbol not more than once every five years. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle license fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of one hundred dollars."

SECTION   36.   Section 56-3-9400(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Morris Island Lighthouse' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate an emblem, a seal, or other symbol of the Morris Island Lighthouse. Save the Light, Inc., shall submit to the department for its approval the emblem, seal, or other symbol it desires to be used for this special license plate. Save the Light, Inc., may request a change in the emblem, seal, or other symbol not more than once every five years. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle registration fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and a special motor vehicle license fee of one hundred dollars."

SECTION   37.   Section 56-3-9500(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'God Bless America' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger-carrying passenger motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names. The special license plates must bear the words 'God Bless America', the United States Flag, and the silhouette of the State of South Carolina. Before this special license plate is produced, the department must receive written authorization for the use of any copyrighted words, registered logos, trademarks, or designs that appear on this license plate. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle license fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3, of this title, and a special motor vehicle license fee of sixteen dollars."

SECTION   38.   Section 56-3-9600(A) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(A)   The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'No More Homeless Pets' special motor vehicle license plates to owners of private passenger carrying motor vehicles or light pickups having an empty weight of seven thousand pounds or less and a gross weight of nine thousand pounds or less as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names which may have imprinted on the plate 'No More Homeless Pets'. The special license plate must be issued or revalidated for a biennial period which expires twenty-four months from the month it is issued. The fee for this special license plate is the regular motor vehicle registration fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3, of this title, and a special motor vehicle license fee of seventy dollars."

SECTION   39.   Section 56-3-9910 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 398 of 2006, is amended to read:

"The Department of Motor Vehicles may issue 'Gold Star Family' special license plates to owners of private passenger carrying motor vehicles as defined in Section 56-3-630 registered in their names. The fee for this special license plate must be the regular motor vehicle license fee contained in Article 5, Chapter 3 of this title and the special fee required by Section 56-3-2020. The license plates issued pursuant to this section must conform to a design agreed to by the department and the chief executive officer of the South Carolina Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., or other similar organization operating in this State. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, of the fees collected for the special license plate, the Comptroller General shall place sufficient funds into a special restricted account to be used by the Department of Motor Vehicles to defray the expenses of the Department of Motor Vehicles in producing and administering the special plate."

SECTION   40.   Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, upon proper application the Department of Transportation may issue appropriate permits to a regional transit authority or public transit operator to install and maintain benches upon which commercial advertisements are placed provided that the each bench will be located at one of the applicant's bus stops, the proposed location for the bench is within the right-of-way of a public road, and the applicant otherwise meets all relevant federal statutory and regulatory requirements. The department may charge a permit fee of twenty-five dollars for each permit application. All permits issued pursuant to this section expire on July 1, 2010.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator GROOMS explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

S. 1232 (Word version) -- Senators Cleary, Rankin and Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 TO CHAPTER 10 OF TITLE 4, ENACTING THE "EDUCATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS SALES AND USE TAX ACT" SO AS TO ALLOW A ONE PERCENT LOCAL SALES AND USE TAX TO BE IMPOSED IN A COUNTY FOR NOT MORE THAN FIFTEEN YEARS UPON REFERENDUM APPROVAL WITH THE REVENUES OF THE TAX USED BY THE COUNTY'S SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES TO PAY FOR SPECIFIC PUBLIC SCHOOL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN THE COUNTY AND TO PROVIDE A METHOD WHEREBY REVENUE OF THE TAX MAY BE SHARED FOR THE PURPOSES OF SPECIFIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ON THE CAMPUSES OF A TECHNICAL COLLEGE OR OTHER STATE INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING LOCATED IN THE COUNTY, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REFERENDUM REQUIRED FOR THE IMPOSITION OF THE TAX, THE DURATION OF THE TAX, NOT TO EXCEED FIFTEEN YEARS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE TAX AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE REVENUE.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator CLEARY explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator CLEARY, 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. 1115 (Word version) -- Senators Leventis, Land, Ford, Anderson, Hutto, Malloy, Matthews, Williams, Peeler, Short, Sheheen, Drummond, Jackson, Ceips and Lourie: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-112-50, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO IN-STATE TUITION AT PUBLIC COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR DEPENDENTS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH AND CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH THESE PERSONNEL AND THEIR DEPENDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE AND RETAIN IN-STATE TUITION RATES.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator LEVENTIS explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator LEVENTIS, 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. 970 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-29-135, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE RECORDS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL TO NOTIFY THE SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT AND SCHOOL NURSE IF A MINOR IS ATTENDING A SCHOOL IN THE DISTRICT AND HAS ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME OR IS INFECTED WITH THE HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

Senator HUTTO explained the Bill.

On motion of Senator HUTTO, 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. 3006 (Word version) -- Reps. J.E. Smith, G.R. Smith, Talley, Gullick, Herbkersman, Brady, Mulvaney, Scarborough, Pinson, Shoopman, Hagood, Agnew, Stewart, Bedingfield, McLeod, Funderburk, Perry, Bales, Toole, Stavrinakis, Harrison, Vick, Ceips, Whipper and Bowen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 56-5-160 AND 56-19-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BOTH RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "BICYCLE", SO AS TO CLARIFY THE DEFINITION AND TO EXCLUDE CHILDRENS' TRICYCLES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-1810, RELATING TO TRAFFIC REGULATIONS REQUIRING ONE TO DRIVE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROADWAY, INCLUDING REQUIREMENTS FOR SLOWER MOVING VEHICLES, SO AS TO FURTHER SPECIFY THESE REQUIREMENTS AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE INTENT OF SUCH REQUIREMENTS IS TO FACILITATE THE OVERTAKING OF SLOWLY MOVING VEHICLES BY FASTER MOVING VEHICLES; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 27, CHAPTER 5, TITLE 56, RELATING TO BICYCLISTS AND USERS OF PLAY VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MOTOR VEHICLES MUST NOT BLOCK BICYCLE LANES AND MUST YIELD TO BICYCLISTS IN SUCH LANES, TO PROVIDE THAT BICYCLISTS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO RIDE ON THE SHOULDER OF A ROADWAY AND TO ALSO PROVIDE THAT A BICYCLIST MAY NOT BE PROHIBITED FROM DOING SO, TO DELETE THE PROVISION REQUIRING A BICYCLIST TO USE A BIKE PATH WHEN PROVIDED, RATHER THAN THE ROADWAY, TO REQUIRE A MOTORIST OVERTAKING A BICYCLIST TO ALLOW A MINIMUM OF FIVE FEET BETWEEN THE MOTOR VEHICLE AND THE BICYCLE, TO DELETE PROVISIONS REQUIRING BICYCLES TO HAVE A BELL OR OTHER AUDIBLE DEVICE, AND TO SPECIFY THE FORM AND EXTENT OF ARM SIGNALS THAT BICYCLISTS MAY USE.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator VERDIN, 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. 1050 (Word version) -- Senators Verdin and 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.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator GROOMS, 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. 1007 (Word version) -- Senator Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 6 OF TITLE 34, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA UNIFORM MANAGEMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL FUNDS ACT, SO AS TO REVISE ITS NAME TO THE "SOUTH CAROLINA UNIFORM PRUDENT MANAGEMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL FUNDS ACT" AND TO PROVIDE UPDATED ARTICULATIONS OF THE PRUDENCE STANDARDS FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND INVESTMENT OF CHARITABLE FUNDS AND FOR ENDOWMENT SPENDING, APPLY PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT AND INVESTMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL FUNDS TO CHARITIES ORGANIZED AS A TRUST, A NONPROFIT CORPORATION, OR OTHER ENTITY, IMPOSE ADDITIONAL DUTIES ON THOSE WHO MANAGE AND INVEST CHARITABLE FUNDS, AND UPDATE RULES GOVERNING EXPENDITURES FROM ENDOWMENT FUNDS AND PROVISIONS GOVERNING THE RELEASE AND MODIFICATION OF RESTRICTIONS ON CHARITABLE FUNDS.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

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

S. 1122 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 50-11-515 SO AS TO PERMIT AMERICAN INDIAN ARTISTS WHO ARE MEMBERS OF A TRIBE RECOGNIZED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMISSION FOR MINORITY AFFAIRS TO ADVERTISE AND SELL THEIR ARTS AND CRAFTS CONTAINING WILD TURKEY FEATHERS UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

On motion of Senator GREGORY, 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. 691 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-170, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR BUYING, SELLING, OR DISPLAYING FOR SALE CARCASSES OR PARTS OF WILD RABBITS IN GAME ZONES 2 AND 4, SO AS TO MAKE SUCH CONDUCT UNLAWFUL STATEWIDE AND TO INCREASE THE PENALTY TO A MAXIMUM OF FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS; BY ADDING SECTION 50-11-300 SO AS TO DESIGNATE WHICH SPECIES CONSTITUTE BIG GAME; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-520, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STUDY OF GAME ZONES RESTOCKED WITH WILD TURKEYS AND THE AUTHORITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES TO SET OPEN AND CLOSED SEASONS ON MALE WILD TURKEYS, SO AS TO ALSO ENABLE THE DEPARTMENT TO SET OTHER OPEN AND CLOSED SEASONS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-565, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE USE OF CROSS BOWS, SO AS TO STRIKE THE ENTIRE SECTION AND PROVIDE A DEFINITION OF ARCHERY EQUIPMENT AS USED IN THIS TITLE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-385, RELATING TO THE MINIMUM SIZE OF LARGEMOUTH BASS FROM LAKES MARION, MOULTRIE, AND WYLIE THAT A PERSON MAY TAKE OR POSSESS, SO AS TO INCLUDE ALL OF LAKE WYLIE INSTEAD OF THE PORTION OF LAKE WYLIE LOCATED IN YORK COUNTY AND IN GAME ZONE 4; TO AMEND SECTION 50-11-708, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL LIGHTS TO OBSERVE OR HARASS WILDLIFE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A LESSEE MAY USE ARTIFICIAL LIGHTS TO PROTECT HIS PROPERTY; TO AMEND SECTION 50-21-125, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON SWIMMING NEAR A PUBLIC BOAT LANDING OR RAMP IN THE VICINITY OF A HYDROELECTRIC GENERATION UTILITY AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NO WAKE ZONE, SO AS 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 AMEND SECTION 50-21-180, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION OF RIDING SURFBOARDS NEAR FISHING PIERS IN GAME ZONE 7 AND GEORGETOWN COUNTY, SO AS TO MAKE SUCH CONDUCT UNLAWFUL STATEWIDE; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-3-360 RELATING TO ADDITIONAL DEPUTY ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS FOR GAME ZONE 2; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-11-30 RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE DEPARTMENT TO REGULATE WILD TURKEY HUNTING; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-11-550 RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL DISCHARGE OF A WEAPON OTHER THAN A SHOTGUN DURING CERTAIN TIMES OF YEAR IN CERTAIN AREAS; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-13-20 RELATING TO LAWFUL METHODS OF CATCHING FISH IN CERTAIN LAKES AND BOYD'S MILL POND IN GAME ZONE 2; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-13-65 RELATING TO AUTHORIZATION OF CLOSED SEASON ON STREAMS IN GAME ZONE 1; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-13-90 RELATING TO CLOSED SEASON ON TROUT; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-13-980 RELATING TO PRESUMPTION FROM POSSESSION OF FISH IN EXCESS OF LEGAL LIMITS; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-13-1010 RELATING TO THE APPLICATION OF PROVISIONS IN ARTICLE 6; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-13-1020 AND CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-19-2220 RELATING TO CERTAIN WATERS OF THE SAVANNAH RIVER; TO REPEAL SECTION 50-19-2230 RELATING TO AMENDMENTS AND ADDITIONS TO FISHING REGULATIONS IN CERTAIN WATERS OF THE SAVANNAH RIVER; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 50-19-3010 RELATING TO LAWFUL METHODS FOR CATCHING FISH IN FAIRFOREST CREEK IN UNION AND SPARTANBURG COUNTIES.

The House returned the Bill with amendments.

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

Columbia, S.C., May 27, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R.274, H. 3649 by a vote of 95 to 0:

(R274, H3649 (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: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 12-63-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SALES TAX REBATES ON ECOLOGICALLY FRIENDLY VEHICLES AND INCENTIVE PAYMENTS FOR ALTERNATIVE FUEL PURCHASE AND PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY OR METHANE GAS, SO AS TO DELETE THE SALES TAX REBATE ON FLEXIBLE FUEL VEHICLES, TO SHORTEN THE TIME PERIOD THE ALTERNATIVE FUEL PURCHASE INCENTIVE IS AVAILABLE, TO BROADEN THE INCENTIVE PAYMENT QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY OR METHANE GAS FUEL, TO REPLACE "METHANE GAS FUEL" WITH "ENERGY", AND TO DELETE THE LIMITATIONS ON THE INCENTIVE AMOUNTS; TO AMEND SECTION 46-3-260, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RENEWABLE ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND AND LOW INTEREST LOANS AND GRANTS, SO AS TO EXPAND THE PURVIEW OF THE MATCHING GRANTS FOR NEW AND FUTURE BIOMASS TECHNOLOGIES TO INCLUDE SOLAR, GEOTHERMAL, WIND ENERGY, AND SMALL HYDROPOWER TECHNOLOGIES AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RATHER THAN THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE MAY ADMINISTER THE FUND AND COORDINATE ITS EFFORTS WITH THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3600, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAX CREDITS FOR AN ETHANOL AND BIODIESEL FACILITY, SO AS TO EXTEND THE TAX CREDIT TO 2017, TO ALLOW THE TAXPAYER TO CLAIM THE CREDIT FOR THE FIRST SIX MONTHS IT MET THE REQUIREMENTS IN ADDITION TO QUALIFYING FOR THE CURRENT TAXABLE YEAR; TO ALLOW UNUSED CREDIT TO BE CARRIED FORWARD FOR TEN YEARS, TO REQUIRE APPROVAL BY THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE RATHER THAN THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3610, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAX CREDITS FOR THE COST OF PURCHASING AND INSTALLING PROPERTY TO DISTRIBUTE AND DISPENSE RENEWABLE FUELS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "RENEWABLE FUEL" FOR CERTAIN TAXPAYERS WHO PURCHASE OR CONSTRUCT QUALIFYING FACILITIES OR COMMERCIAL FACILITIES, TO DELETE THE ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLAR LIMIT, AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3620, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAX CREDITS FOR THE COST OF METHANE GAS USE, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS RELATED TO METHANE GAS, TO END THE TAX CREDIT ALLOWABLE FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF CERTAIN ENERGY-CREATING FUELS WITH NO LESS THAN NINETY PERCENT BIOMASS RESOURCE, TO ALLOW THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE TO CONSULT WITH OTHER SPECIFIED AGENCIES TO CERTIFY THE COSTS OF THE TAXPAYER, TO PROVIDE PARAMETERS FOR THE TAX CREDIT, TO REDEFINE "BIOMASS RESOURCE", AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3631, RELATING TO THE BIODIESEL EXPENDITURES TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO EXPAND THE DEFINITIONS OF "QUALIFIED EXPENDITURES FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT" AND "CELLULOSIC ETHANOL" AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

(R274, H3649 (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: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 12-63-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SALES TAX REBATES ON ECOLOGICALLY FRIENDLY VEHICLES AND INCENTIVE PAYMENTS FOR ALTERNATIVE FUEL PURCHASE AND PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY OR METHANE GAS, SO AS TO DELETE THE SALES TAX REBATE ON FLEXIBLE FUEL VEHICLES, TO SHORTEN THE TIME PERIOD THE ALTERNATIVE FUEL PURCHASE INCENTIVE IS AVAILABLE, TO BROADEN THE INCENTIVE PAYMENT QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY OR METHANE GAS FUEL, TO REPLACE "METHANE GAS FUEL" WITH "ENERGY", AND TO DELETE THE LIMITATIONS ON THE INCENTIVE AMOUNTS; TO AMEND SECTION 46-3-260, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA RENEWABLE ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND AND LOW INTEREST LOANS AND GRANTS, SO AS TO EXPAND THE PURVIEW OF THE MATCHING GRANTS FOR NEW AND FUTURE BIOMASS TECHNOLOGIES TO INCLUDE SOLAR, GEOTHERMAL, WIND ENERGY, AND SMALL HYDROPOWER TECHNOLOGIES AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RATHER THAN THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE MAY ADMINISTER THE FUND AND COORDINATE ITS EFFORTS WITH THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3600, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAX CREDITS FOR AN ETHANOL AND BIODIESEL FACILITY, SO AS TO EXTEND THE TAX CREDIT TO 2017, TO ALLOW THE TAXPAYER TO CLAIM THE CREDIT FOR THE FIRST SIX MONTHS IT MET THE REQUIREMENTS IN ADDITION TO QUALIFYING FOR THE CURRENT TAXABLE YEAR; TO ALLOW UNUSED CREDIT TO BE CARRIED FORWARD FOR TEN YEARS, TO REQUIRE APPROVAL BY THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE RATHER THAN THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3610, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAX CREDITS FOR THE COST OF PURCHASING AND INSTALLING PROPERTY TO DISTRIBUTE AND DISPENSE RENEWABLE FUELS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "RENEWABLE FUEL" FOR CERTAIN TAXPAYERS WHO PURCHASE OR CONSTRUCT QUALIFYING FACILITIES OR COMMERCIAL FACILITIES, TO DELETE THE ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLAR LIMIT, AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3620, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAX CREDITS FOR THE COST OF METHANE GAS USE, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS RELATED TO METHANE GAS, TO END THE TAX CREDIT ALLOWABLE FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF CERTAIN ENERGY-CREATING FUELS WITH NO LESS THAN NINETY PERCENT BIOMASS RESOURCE, TO ALLOW THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE TO CONSULT WITH OTHER SPECIFIED AGENCIES TO CERTIFY THE COSTS OF THE TAXPAYER, TO PROVIDE PARAMETERS FOR THE TAX CREDIT, TO REDEFINE "BIOMASS RESOURCE", AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3631, RELATING TO THE BIODIESEL EXPENDITURES TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO EXPAND THE DEFINITIONS OF "QUALIFIED EXPENDITURES FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT" AND "CELLULOSIC ETHANOL" AND TO REQUIRE EACH TAXPAYER TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE STATE ENERGY OFFICE WITHIN A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD AND SUBJECT TO CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS.

The veto of the Governor was taken up for immediate consideration.

Senator VERDIN moved that the veto of the Governor be overridden.

The question was put, "Shall the Act become law, the veto of the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding?"

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

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bryant
Campbell                  Campsen                   Ceips
Cleary                    Courson                   Cromer
Drummond                  Elliott                   Fair
Ford                      Gregory                   Grooms
Hawkins                   Hayes                     Hutto
Jackson                   Knotts                    Land
Leatherman                Leventis                  Lourie
Malloy                    Martin                    Massey
Matthews                  McGill                    O'Dell
Patterson                 Peeler                    Pinckney
Rankin                    Reese                     Ryberg
Setzler                   Sheheen                   Short
Thomas                    Verdin                    Williams

McConnell

The necessary two-thirds vote having been received, the veto of the Governor was overridden, and a message was sent to the House accordingly.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has sustained the veto by the Governor on R.270, S. 401 by a vote of 63 to 37:

(R270, S401 (Word version)) -- Senators Setzler and Leatherman: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-310, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO DELETE THE DEFINITION FOR "OFFICE"; TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-1524, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO VENDOR PREFERENCES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PREFERENCES FOR END PRODUCTS FROM SOUTH CAROLINA AND FROM THE UNITED STATES AND FOR CONTRACTORS AND SUBCONTRACTORS WHO EMPLOY INDIVIDUALS DOMICILED IN SOUTH CAROLINA, TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS, PROVIDE FOR ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PREFERENCES, PROVIDE FOR APPLICATION FOR THE PREFERENCES AND PENALTIES FOR FALSE APPLICATION, AND TO MAKE EXCEPTIONS TO THE PREFERENCES; TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE; TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-3215, RELATING TO CONTRACTS FOR DESIGN SERVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A RESIDENT PREFERENCE; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 11-35-3025 RELATING TO APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDERS IN CONNECTION WITH CERTAIN CONTRACTS.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Columbia, S.C., May 29, 2008

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has sustained the veto by the Governor on R.288, H. 3567 by a vote of 54 to 57:

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 TO TWO PERCENT AS OF JULY 1, 2007, AND ONE PERCENT AS OF JULY 1, 2008.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

At 3:22 P.M., Senator MARTIN assumed the Chair.

H. 4470 (Word version) -- Reps. Harrell, Leach, Cato, Hagood, Hamilton, Harrison, Limehouse, Merrill, Scarborough, W.D. Smith, Stavrinakis, Walker, Young, Gambrell, Haley, Bedingfield, Mahaffey, Cotty, McLeod, Owens, Rice, Bowen, Viers and Shoopman: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3680 SO AS TO ALLOW A STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR THE PURCHASE, INSTALLATION, OR IMPROVEMENT OF A FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE CREDIT; TO AMEND SECTION 5-31-670, RELATING TO MUNICIPAL AND SPECIAL SERVICE DISTRICT WATER SYSTEMS, SO AS TO LIMIT CHARGES FOR SEPARATE LINES FOR FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS TO ACTUAL COSTS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-2120, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO EXEMPT FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW AN EXEMPTION FROM COUNTY TAXES FOR FIVE YEARS FOR THE FIRST FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS OF THE COST OF ADDING TO AND UPGRADES OF FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS IN EXISTENCE BEFORE JULY 1, 2008; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-930, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEPRECIATION ALLOWED IN THE VALUATION OF MANUFACTURING PROPERTY FOR PURPOSES OF THE PROPERTY TAX, SO AS TO ALLOW A TWENTY PERCENT ANNUAL DEPRECIATION FOR THE ADDITION OR UPGRADE OF A FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM INSTALLED OR UPGRADED IN A MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENT IN EXISTENCE BEFORE JULY 1, 2008, AND TO ALLOW THIS COST TO BE COMPLETELY DEPRECIATED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 23-9-40, RELATING TO THE DUTIES OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL, SO AS TO ADD AUTHORITY RELATING TO FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS.
The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill, the question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Finance.

Senators RYBERG and REESE proposed the following Amendment P-1 (4470R003.WGR), which was adopted:

Amend the committee amendment, as and if amended, beginning on page [4470-1], by striking line 41 through line 2 on page [4470-2] and inserting:

/     specifically assigns the costs to the separate fire sprinkler line.

Nothing in this section may be construed as requiring a utility to provide service to support a private fire protection system."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator RYBERG explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (4470R001.HKL), which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   1.   Chapter 5, Title 58 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 58-5-390.   A publicly or privately owned utility may not impose a tap fee, other fee, or a recurring maintenance fee of any nature or however described for the installation and maintenance of a fire sprinkler system that exceeds the actual costs associated with the water line to the system.

For purposes of this section, actual costs include direct labor, direct material, the necessity of increased capacity, and other direct charges associated with the separate fire sprinkler line. The direct costs must be documented by either an invoice or work order that specifically assigns the costs to the separate fire sprinkler line. In the case of a planned discharge not related to fire suppression, the entity discharging the water shall report the amount of water used to the utility who provides water to the sprinkler system."

SECTION   2.   A.   Article 25, Chapter 6, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-6-3622.   (A)(1)   Subject to the terms and conditions of this section, a taxpayer who installs a fire sprinkler system in a commercial or residential structure, whether the structure or fire sprinkler is new or existing, when such installation is not required by law, regulation, or code is eligible for a credit against real property taxes levied by a local taxing entity equal to twenty-five percent of the direct expenses, not including any type of fee charged by the publicly or privately owned utility, incurred by the taxpayer if the local taxing entity has consented to the tax credit.

(2)   In any year in which the local taxing entity consents to a tax credit, the taxpayer may also claim an income tax credit equal to the amount of the credit against real property taxes.

(3)   The credit earned pursuant to this subsection by an 'S' corporation owing corporate level income tax must be used first at the entity level. Any remaining credit passes through to each shareholder in a percentage equal to each shareholder's percentage of stock ownership.

(4)   The credit earned pursuant to this subsection by a general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, or any other entity taxed as a partnership must be passed through to its partners and may be allocated among any of its partners, including without limitation, an allocation of the entire credit to one partner, in a manner agreed by the partners that is consistent with Subchapter K of the Internal Revenue Code. As used in this subsection, the term 'partner' means a partner, member, or owner of an interest in the pass-through entity, as applicable.

(B)   The Department of Revenue shall develop a form on which a taxpayer may claim the credit against real property taxes. The taxpayer may claim the credit against real property taxes by submitting the form with the payment of real property taxes to the local taxing entity. The taxpayer may claim the credit against income taxes by submitting the form with the taxpayer's return.

(C)   The owner of the structure may transfer, devise, or distribute any unused credit to the tenant of the eligible site. To be effectual, the local taxing entity must receive written notification.

(D)   For purposes of this section, fire sprinkler system has the same meaning as in Section 40-10-20."

B.   This section takes effect upon approval of this act by the Governor and applies for taxable years beginning after 2007.

SECTION   3.A.   Section 12-37-3130(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 12-37-3130.   As used in this article:

(1)   'Additions' or 'improvements' mean an increase in the value of an existing parcel of real property because of:

(a)   new construction;

(b)   reconstruction;

(c)   major additions to the boundaries of the property or a structure on the property;

(d)   remodeling; or

(e)   renovation and rehabilitation, including installation.

Additions or improvements do not include minor construction or ongoing maintenance and repair of existing structures. The repair or reconstruction of a structure damaged or destroyed by a disaster, to include, but not limited to, construction defects, defective materials, fire, wind, hail, flood, and acts of God, is not an addition or improvement to the extent that the structure as repaired or reconstructed is similar in size, utility, and function of the structure damaged or destroyed, and the rebuilding or reconstruction is begun within eight years after determination of the damage or destruction. Construction of facilities in a home that make the home handicapped accessible is not an addition or improvement if the utility and function of the structure remains unchanged. The installation of a fire sprinkler system in a commercial or residential structure when the installation is not required by law, regulation, or code is not an addition or improvement if the utility and function of the structure remains unchanged."

B.   This section takes effect upon approval of this act by the Governor and applies for taxable years beginning after 2007.

SECTION   4.A.   Section 12-37-220(B) of the 1976 Code is amended by adding an appropriately numbered item at the end to read:

"( )   All fire sprinkler system equipment and the value attached thereto that is installed on a commercial or residential structure when the installation is not required by law, regulation, or code until there is an accessible transfer of interest as determined by Section 12-37-3150."

B.   This section takes effect upon approval of this act by the Governor and applies for taxable years beginning after 2007.

SECTION   5.   Except as otherwise provided, this act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LEATHERMAN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator McCONNELL proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (JUD4470.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page [4470-3], after line 39, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/   SECTION   ___.   Chapter 1, Title 10 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 10-1-80.   (A)   For purposes of this section, 'places of worship' mean new or existing buildings that are included within the Group A occupancies as contained in either the International Fire Code or the most recently adopted nationally recognized fire code.

(B)   The General Assembly finds that the tradition of bringing natural cut trees is an important symbol in celebrations occurring in places of worship.

(C)   Neither the Fire Marshal nor a governing body of a county or municipality shall enforce that portion of either the International Fire Code or a nationally recognized fire code that prohibits natural cut trees from being located in places of worship which do not fall within the exceptions provided for structures that have approved automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with the International Fire Code or a nationally recognized fire code.

(D)   This section does not affect the authority of the Fire Marshal or a governing body of a county or a municipality to enforce the other provisions of the International Fire Code or a nationally recognized fire code that pertain to decorative vegetation in new and existing buildings."   /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator McCONNELL explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

On motion of Senator RYBERG, with unanimous consent, H. 4470 was ordered to receive a third reading on Friday, May 30, 2008.

S. 1429 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 6-21-180, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ACCEPTANCE OF FEDERAL LOANS AND GRANTS UNDER THE REVENUE BOND ACT FOR UTILITIES, SO AS TO PERMIT MORTGAGES TO FEDERAL AGENCIES IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

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

Senator ELLIOTT proposed the following Amendment No. 1 (GJK\20740SD08), which was adopted:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Under the revenue bond act for utilities in the case of a special purpose district providing hospital, nursing home, or care facilities in a county with more than fourteen million dollars in accommodations tax collections for the most recent fiscal year, the special purpose district is authorized to provide a mortgage on any real or personal property to secure its bonds or loan by any federal agency or guarantee if the federal agency provides a guarantee of any such loan securing the bonds."

SECTION   2.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator ELLIOTT explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

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

Pursuant to an invitation the Honorable Speaker and House of Representatives appeared in the Senate Chamber on May 29, 2008, at 3:30 P.M. and the following Acts and Joint Resolutions were ratified:

(R296, S. 75 (Word version)) -- Senators Ryberg, Bryant and Verdin: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-4-110 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA TUITION PREPAYMENT PROGRAM MAY NOT ACCEPT NEW PARTICIPANTS UNTIL AUTHORIZED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AND THAT THE PROGRAM REMAINS IN OPERATION FOR EXISTING PARTICIPANTS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-4-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN ANNUAL INCREASE IN TUITION FOR AN INSTITUTION CANNOT EXCEED SEVEN PERCENT PER YEAR FROM FISCAL YEAR 2006-2007, AND TO THE EXTENT THAT IT DOES, THE INSTITUTION SHALL GRANT A WAIVER OF THE DIFFERENCE TO THE DESIGNATED BENEFICIARY.
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(R297, S. 104 (Word version)) -- Senators McConnell, Courson, Vaughn, Knotts and Campsen: AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 11, TITLE 60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ARCHIVES ACT, BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CREATE THE SOUTH CAROLINA CIVIL WAR SESQUICENTENNIAL ADVISORY BOARD, AND BY REDESIGNATING SECTIONS 60-11-10 THROUGH 60-11-100, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY, AS ARTICLE ONE.
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(R298, S. 241 (Word version)) -- Senators Lourie, Knotts, Reese, Leventis, Jackson, Thomas, Pinckney, McGill, Hutto, Sheheen, Williams, Matthews, Patterson, Cromer, Scott, Setzler and Bryant: AN ACT TO AMEND ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 16, TITLE 9 OF THE 1976 CODE, BY ADDING SECTION 9-16-55 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE RETIREMENT SYSTEM INVESTMENT COMMISSION, ACTING CONSISTENTLY WITH ITS FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY, TO DIVEST ITS PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS IN CERTAIN COMPANIES THAT IN THEIR OPERATIONS ARE COMPLICIT WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF SUDAN IN THE DARFUR GENOCIDE AND TO PROHIBIT FUTURE INVESTMENTS BY THE COMMISSION IN SUCH COMPANIES.
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(R299, S. 311 (Word version)) -- Senator Grooms: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-2723 SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL CHILDCARE CENTERS, GROUP CHILDCARE HOMES, AND FAMILY CHILDCARE HOMES THAT DO NOT CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE, OR WHOSE LIABILITY INSURANCE LAPSES OR IS CANCELED AND NOT REPLACED, TO OBTAIN STATEMENTS FROM THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A CHILD ENROLLED IN THE CHILDCARE FACILITY INDICATING THAT THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN HAS RECEIVED NOTICE FROM THE FACILITY THAT THE FACILITY DOES NOT CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE OR THAT THE INSURANCE LAPSED OR WAS CANCELED, TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO INFORM EACH CHILDCARE CENTER, GROUP CHILDCARE HOME, AND FAMILY CHILDCARE HOME OF THIS REQUIREMENT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT COMPLIANCE WITH THIS SECTION IS A CONDITION OF LICENSURE; TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-2725, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT CHILDCARE CENTER EMPLOYEES UNDERGO CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS AND THAT PERSONS WHO HAVE BEEN CONVICTED OF CERTAIN OFFENSES ARE PROHIBITED FROM BEING EMPLOYED BY A CHILDCARE CENTER, SO AS TO ALSO REQUIRE A CENTRAL REGISTRY OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT CHECK TO BE CONDUCTED ON THE PERSON SEEKING CHILDCARE CENTER EMPLOYMENT, TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PROVISIONAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS RELATIVE TO THE CENTRAL REGISTRY CHECKS, TO ESTABLISH CRIMINAL PENALTIES WHEN A DIRECTOR OF A CHILDCARE FACILITY VIOLATES THE PROVISIONAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO COMPLETE A CENTRAL REGISTRY CHECK WITHIN TWO DAYS OF RECEIVING THE REQUEST; AND TO ADD SECTION 20-7-2727 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OWNER OR OPERATOR OF A CHILDCARE CENTER, GROUP CHILDCARE HOME, OR FAMILY CHILDCARE HOME TO NOTIFY AND OBTAIN STATEMENTS FROM THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A CHILD ENROLLED IN THE CHILDCARE FACILITY THAT THE FACILITY MAY PROVISIONALLY EMPLOY A PERSON WHEN AN UNEXPECTED VACANCY OCCURS.
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(R300, S. 463 (Word version)) -- Senators Leatherman, Alexander, Verdin, Short, Setzler, Vaughn and Elliott: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 16, ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO BENEFITS AND FUNDING OF PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PENSION PLANS IN THIS STATE AND THE INVESTMENTS ALLOWED FOR FUNDS OF THE VARIOUS STATE-OPERATED RETIREMENT SYSTEMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FUNDS OF ANY TRUST FUND ESTABLISHED BY LAW FOR THE FUNDING OF POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS FOR STATE EMPLOYEES AND PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS MAY BE INVESTED AND REINVESTED IN EQUITY SECURITIES SUBJECT TO THE SAME LIMITATIONS ON SUCH INVESTMENTS APPLICABLE FOR THE FUNDS OF THE VARIOUS STATE-OPERATED RETIREMENT SYSTEMS AND TO PROVIDE THAT FUNDS OF A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE SET ASIDE FOR THE FUNDING OF POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS OF EMPLOYEES OF THE POLITICAL SUBDIVISION, INCLUDING FUNDS INVESTED IN AN INDEPENDENT TRUST ESTABLISHED FOR THAT PURPOSE, MAY BE SIMILARLY INVESTED.
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(R301, S. 873 (Word version)) -- Senators Knotts and O'Dell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 50-9-515 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A MEMBER OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES WHO IS A RESIDENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA STATIONED OUTSIDE OF THIS STATE, UPON PRESENTATION OF HIS OFFICIAL FURLOUGH OR LEAVE PAPERS, SHALL BE ALLOWED TO FISH OR HUNT IN THIS STATE WITHOUT PURCHASING ANY TYPE OF STATE FISHING OR HUNTING LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-510, RELATING TO HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES GENERALLY, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH DISABILITY LICENSES ARE ISSUED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-910, RELATING TO THE USE OF THE REVENUE FROM CERTAIN FINES, FORFEITURES, AND LICENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ALLOCATION OF REVENUE OF NONRESIDENT LICENSES SOLD THROUGH NONTRADITIONAL MEANS SUCH AS THE INTERNET, CALL CENTERS, OR MASS MAILINGS.
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(R302, S. 903 (Word version)) -- Senators Campsen, McConnell and McGill: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 1-15-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF AND APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS TO THE COMMISSION ON WOMEN, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MEMBERS FROM SEVEN TO FIFTEEN AND TO PROVIDE THAT ONE MEMBER MUST BE APPOINTED FROM EACH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT AND THE REMAINING MEMBERS FROM THE STATE AT LARGE.
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(R303, S. 950 (Word version)) -- Senators Hutto and Matthews: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 59-53-630, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE POWERS OF THE DENMARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE AREA COMMISSION, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COMMISSION TO ENTER INTO GROUND LEASE AGREEMENTS WITH PRIVATE ENTITIES UPON APPROVAL BY THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD; TO AMEND SECTIONS 59-53-740, 59-117-65, 59-125-130, 59-127-85, 59-130-60, AND 59-133-60, ALL RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY TO ENTER INTO GROUND LEASE AGREEMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TRANSACTIONS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO THE RESPECTIVE SECTIONS ARE NOT EXEMPT FROM COMPLIANCE WITH CHAPTER 35 OF TITLE 11; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-53-290 SO AS TO ALLOW THE AREA COMMISSION OF TRI-COUNTY COLLEGE TO ENTER INTO GROUND LEASE AGREEMENTS WITH PRIVATE ENTITIES UPON APPROVAL BY THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.
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(R304, S. 955 (Word version)) -- Senators Hayes and Gregory: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 1-1-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION AND BOUNDARIES OF THE STATE, SO AS TO REVISE A PORTION OF THE BOUNDARIES BETWEEN NORTH CAROLINA AND SOUTH CAROLINA, AND GEORGIA AND SOUTH CAROLINA.
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(R305, S. 996 (Word version)) -- Senators Ceips, Grooms and Cleary: AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 15 OF TITLE 57, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF FERRIES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS THAT ALLOW A COUNTY TO GRANT CHARTERS FOR FERRIES AND ALL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE CHARTERING AND OPERATION OF FERRIES BY A COUNTY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MAY PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT, OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND SUPERVISION OF CERTAIN PUBLIC FERRIES, TO PROVIDE THAT COUNTIES MAY PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT, OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND SUPERVISION OF CERTAIN PUBLIC FERRIES, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND COUNTIES MAY ENTER INTO AGREEMENTS WITH PRIVATE ENTITIES TO FINANCE, ACQUIRE, CONSTRUCT, EQUIP, MAINTAIN, OR OPERATE PRIVATE FERRIES, TO PROVIDE THAT PRIVATE CITIZENS, AND PUBLIC AND PRIVATE ENTITIES MAY ASSIST A FERRY OPERATOR IN DEFRAYING THE OPERATIONAL AND MAINTENANCE EXPENSES OF A FERRY, TO PROVIDE THAT ON JULY 1, 2009, THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS NO LONGER REQUIRED TO OPERATE ITS FERRY IN GEORGETOWN COUNTY AND MAY TRANSFER ITS FERRY VESSEL TO THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES.
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(R306, S. 1011 (Word version)) -- Senators Jackson, Leatherman, Patterson, Ford, Hutto, Short, Fair, Matthews, Elliott, Setzler, Lourie, Campbell, Williams, Reese, Hayes and Anderson: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-25 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE JOINT CITIZENS AND LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP, POWERS, AND DUTIES, TO DIRECT THE COMMITTEE TO STUDY ISSUES RELATING TO CHILDREN AS IT MAY UNDERTAKE OR AS DIRECTED OR REQUESTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, TO REQUIRE THE COMMITTEE TO REPORT ANNUALLY TO THE GOVERNOR AND GENERAL ASSEMBLY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHILDREN'S LAW CENTER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOL OF LAW SHALL PROVIDE STAFFING FOR THE COMMITTEE, TO PROVIDE THAT FUNDING MAY BE PROVIDED IN THE ANNUAL GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT AND FROM OTHER SOURCES, AND TO TERMINATE THE COMMITTEE DECEMBER 31, 2015, UNLESS REAUTHORIZED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.
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(R307, S. 1022 (Word version)) -- Senators Peeler, Setzler, Campbell and Ford: AN ACT 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" TO ESTABLISH THE CRITICAL NEEDS NURSING INITIATIVE FUND; TO IMPROVE THE NUMBER OF QUALIFIED NURSES IN THIS STATE BY PROVIDING NURSING FACULTY SALARY ENHANCEMENTS, TO CREATE NEW FACULTY POSITIONS, TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL NURSING STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS, LOANS, AND GRANTS, TO ESTABLISH THE OFFICE FOR HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE RESEARCH TO ANALYZE HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE SUPPLY AND DEMAND, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF SIMULATION TECHNOLOGY AND EQUIPMENT IN THE EDUCATION OF NURSES; AND TO PROVIDE THE CHAPTER'S PROVISIONS ARE SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATION BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.
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(R308, S. 1058 (Word version)) -- Senators Hayes, Courson, Lourie, Short, Sheheen and Ceips: AN ACT TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 7, TITLE 20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S TRUST FUND, SO AS TO ELIMINATE DUPLICATIVE DUTIES OF THE ORGANIZATION AND REVISE ITS GOVERNANCE BY RECONSTITUTING THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS A BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONSISTING OF SEVENTEEN MEMBERS, INCLUDING ELEVEN AT-LARGE MEMBERS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR FROM NOMINEES MADE BY THE CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS PLUS ONE MEMBER FROM EACH OF THE STATE'S CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS, TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT OF THE SENATE'S ADVICE AND CONSENT TO THESE APPOINTMENTS, AND TO DELETE VARIOUS QUALIFICATIONS FOR SERVICE ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND TERM LIMITS ON SERVICE; TO AMEND SECTIONS 6-29-1330, 13-7-840, AS AMENDED, 16-3-1160, 40-25-40, 40-30-40, 43-21-10, AS AMENDED, 48-21-20, 48-45-80, 49-23-60, 51-18-40, 51-18-60, AND 57-23-50, ALL OF THE 1976 CODE AND ACT 597 OF 1980, RELATING RESPECTIVELY TO THE STATE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT PLANNING OR ZONING OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES, THE GOVERNOR'S NUCLEAR ADVISORY COUNCIL, THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIME VICTIM'S ADVISORY BOARD, THE COMMISSION OF HEARING AID SPECIALISTS, THE ADVISORY PANEL FOR MASSAGE/BODYWORK, THE ADVISORY COUNCIL ON AGING, THE MINING COUNCIL, ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO THE SEA GRANT CONSORTIUM DIRECTOR, LOCAL DROUGHT RESPONSE COMMITTEE, THE WAR BETWEEN THE STATES HERITAGE TRUST COMMISSION, WAR BETWEEN THE STATES HERITAGE TRUST ADVISORY BOARD, THE SCENIC HIGHWAYS COMMITTEE, AND THE OLD JACKSONBOROUGH HISTORIC DISTRICT AUTHORITY, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE SENATE'S ADVICE AND CONSENT FOR GUBERNATORIAL APPOINTMENTS TO THESE ENTITIES, AND TO PROVIDE TRANSITION PROVISIONS FOR THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S TRUST FUND.
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(R309, S. 1082 (Word version)) -- Senator Thomas: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTIONS 38-72-65, 38-72-67, AND 38-72-69 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR RESCINDING AND ISSUING LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE POLICIES, AND TO REQUIRE THE LICENSING AND TRAINING OF A PRODUCER OF THESE POLICIES; TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-40, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONTAINED IN THE LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE ACT, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE "LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE", AND TO DEFINE THE TERM "QUALIFIED LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE CONTRACT" OR "FEDERALLY TAX-QUALIFIED LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE CONTRACT"; TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-60, RELATING TO THE APPROVAL OF REGULATIONS, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS APPLICABLE TO A LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE POLICY AND GROUP POLICY, AND ADVERTISING RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE ELEMENTS OF WHAT THESE POLICIES MAY INCLUDE AND THE CONDITIONS THAT MUST BE MET, AND ADDITIONAL ITEMS THAT MUST BE FURNISHED TO A POLICYHOLDER IN A MONTHLY REPORT; TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-70, RELATING TO THE ADOPTION OF REGULATIONS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR OF INSURANCE TO ISSUE CERTAIN REGULATIONS TO PROTECT A POLICYHOLDER IF THERE IS A SUBSTANTIAL RATE INCREASE AND ESTABLISH MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR PRODUCER EDUCATION, MARKETING PRACTICES, PENALTIES, AND REPORTING PRACTICES FOR LONG TERM CARE; AND TO AMEND SECTION 38-72-80, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION OF THIS CHAPTER, SO AS TO PROVIDE A SEVERABILITY PROVISION.
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(R310, S. 1095 (Word version)) -- Senator Hayes: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 25-1-380, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO AN ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL FOR THE ARMY, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERALS TO TWO.
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(R311, S. 1104 (Word version)) -- Senator McConnell: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-242 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN USED IN INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP SPECIFIED DISEASE INSURANCE POLICIES, AND UNLESS OTHERWISE DEFINED IN THE POLICY, THE TERMS "ACTUAL CHARGE", "ACTUAL CHARGES", "ACTUAL FEE", OR "ACTUAL FEES" MEANS THE AMOUNT THE HEALTH CARE PROVIDER AGREED TO ACCEPT OR IS OBLIGATED BY LAW TO ACCEPT AS PAYMENT FOR GOODS OR SERVICES PROVIDED AND TO REQUIRE THAT NO INSURER OR ISSUER OF ANY INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP SPECIFIED DISEASE INSURANCE POLICY PAY ANY CLAIM OR BENEFIT UNDER THE APPLICABLE POLICY IN AN AMOUNT IN EXCESS OF THE ACTUAL CHARGE, ACTUAL CHARGES, ACTUAL FEE, OR ACTUAL FEES.
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(R312, S. 1168 (Word version)) -- Senators Peeler and Alexander: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 15-9-510, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO SERVICE OF PROCESS ON THE SUPERINTENDENT OF A STATE MENTAL HOSPITAL, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "DIRECTOR" FOR "SUPERINTENDENT" OF SUCH HOSPITAL; TO AMEND SECTION 44-9-50, RELATING TO DIVIDING THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH INTO DIVISIONS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION REQUIRING A MEDICAL DIVISION TO BE HEADED BY A MEDICAL DOCTOR; TO AMEND SECTION 44-9-60, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF EACH HOSPITAL UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE "DIRECTOR" FOR "SUPERINTENDENT" OF SUCH HOSPITALS; TO AMEND SECTION 44-9-90, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCES TO EPILEPSY AND TO CERTAIN OBSOLETE TERMS, TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS, AND TO SUBSTITUTE "DIRECTOR" FOR "SUPERINTENDENT" OF A MENTAL HEALTH HOSPITAL; TO AMEND SECTION 44-9-100, RELATING TO AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY OVER WHICH THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION MAY EXERCISE ITS AUTHORITY, SO AS TO DELETE OBSOLETE TERMS, MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS, AND SUBSTITUTE "DIRECTOR" FOR "SUPERINTENDENT" OF A MENTAL HEALTH HOSPITAL; TO AMEND SECTION 44-22-220, RELATING TO PATIENT RIGHTS GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A GRIEVANCE MUST BE REVIEWED BY THE DEPARTMENT AND THAT A DETERMINATION MUST BE MADE WHETHER CORRECTIVE ACTION IS WARRANTED; TO AMEND SECTION 44-23-10, RELATING TO DEFINITION OF TERMS USED IN CONNECTION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH AND THE CARE AND TREATMENT OF PERSONS WITH MENTAL ILLNESS, SO AS TO REVISE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 44-23-210, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF PATIENTS BETWEEN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL RETARDATION FACILITIES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS AND TO SUBSTITUTE "DIRECTOR" FOR "SUPERINTENDENT" OF A MENTAL HEALTH INSTITUTION OR FACILITY; TO AMEND SECTION 44-23-250, RELATING TO THE SIGNATURE OF A "SUPERINTENDENT OF ANY INSTITUTION" OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT MEANS THE "DIRECTOR" OF SUCH INSTITUTIONS; TO REPEAL SECTION 44-11-80 RELATING TO THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION SETTING THE SALARIES OF OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF STATE MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 44-23-30 RELATING TO A NONRESIDENT PHYSICIAN EXAMINING AN INSTITUTIONALIZED PATIENT OUT OF STATE.
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(R313, S. 1182 (Word version)) -- Senator Grooms: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A STUDY COMMITTEE TO STUDY THE FEASIBILITY AND BENEFITS OF THE CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION, AND MAINTENANCE OF ROADS, STREETS, HIGHWAYS, BRIDGES, AND TUNNELS THROUGH THE UTILIZATION OF PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS AND VENTURES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE OPERATIONS OF THE STUDY COMMITTEE.
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(R314, S. 1221 (Word version)) -- Senators Hutto and Massey: AN ACT TO AMEND ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 3, TITLE 22, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CIVIL PROCEDURE IN MAGISTRATES COURT, SO AS TO REVISE THE ARTICLE SUBSTANTIALLY IN ORDER TO DELETE PROVISIONS THAT HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA RULES OF MAGISTRATES COURT AND TO RENAME THE ARTICLE TO CONFORM WITH THE REVISIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 5-7-12, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A STUDENT ARRESTED FOR A MISDEMEANOR BY A SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER MUST RECEIVE A BOND HEARING WITHIN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS OF HIS ARREST AND MAY RECEIVE A COURTESY SUMMONS.
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(R315, S. 1244 (Word version)) -- Senators Campsen, Gregory, Cromer, Ceips, McConnell, Scott and Cleary: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 50-3-730, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOURCE OF ASSETS OF THE WILDLIFE ENDOWMENT FUND, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL LIFETIME PRIVILEGE FEES SHALL BE PART OF THE ASSETS OF THE FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-510, RELATING TO HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES AUTHORIZED FOR SALE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A LIFETIME STATEWIDE HUNTING LICENSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DEPARTMENT AT DESIGNATED LICENSING LOCATIONS RATHER THAN AT THE DEPARTMENT'S COLUMBIA HEADQUARTERS; TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-520, RELATING TO LIFETIME COMBINATION LICENSES, SO AS TO REVISE THE TYPE OF LICENSES OFFERED, THE FEES FOR THESE LICENSES, THE LOCATIONS AT WHICH THEY MAY BE OBTAINED, AND THE PROCESS FOR CONVERTING CERTAIN LIFETIME LICENSES INTO SENIOR LIFETIME LICENSES; TO AMEND SECTION 50-9-540, RELATING TO FISHING LICENSES, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT CERTAIN LICENSES ARE FOR RECREATIONAL FRESHWATER FISHING AND TO PROVIDE THE PROCEDURE AND FEE FOR OBTAINING A LIFETIME SALTWATER RECREATIONAL FISHERIES LICENSE; TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-1130, RELATING TO WHEN COMMERCIAL FRESHWATER FISHING LICENSES ARE REQUIRED, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR WHEN THESE LICENSES ARE REQUIRED; AND TO AMEND SECTION 50-13-1135, RELATING TO WHEN COMMERCIAL OR RECREATIONAL FRESHWATER FISHING LICENSES ARE REQUIRED WHEN USING CERTAIN DEVICES, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES REQUIRING EACH LICENSE.
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(R316, S. 1329 (Word version)) -- Senators McGill, Grooms and Bryant: AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND LICENSING BY ADDING ARTICLE 101 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF "I BELIEVE" SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES AND PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THESE LICENSE PLATES MAY BE ISSUED.
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(R317, S. 1366 (Word version)) -- Senator Land: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-190, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN CLARENDON 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, AND CORRECT CERTAIN REFERENCES.
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(R318, S. 1372 (Word version)) -- Senator Land: AN ACT TO DESIGNATE MAP DOCUMENT NUMBERS FOR MAPS DELINEATING THE BOUNDARY BETWEEN SCHOOL DISTRICTS NO. 1 AND NO. 2 IN CLARENDON COUNTY AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE MAPS DELINEATING THIS BOUNDARY BE FILED AND MAINTAINED IN THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICS OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.
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(R319, H. 3028 (Word version)) -- Reps. Funderburk, Haskins, Witherspoon, Whipper, Hardwick, Hagood, Clemmons, Neilson and Erickson: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 39-5-42 SO AS TO DEFINE "FOOD" OR "FOOD PRODUCT" AND TO MAKE IT AN UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICE KNOWINGLY AND WILFULLY TO MISREPRESENT THAT A FOOD OR A FOOD PRODUCT IS A PRODUCT OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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(R320, H. 3058 (Word version)) -- Reps. W.D. Smith, Haskins, Young, G.R. Smith, Cobb-Hunter, Kirsh, Mahaffey, Sandifer, Brady, Bedingfield, Funderburk, Mitchell, M.A. Pitts, Whipper and R. Brown: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 16-25-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, SO AS TO RESTRUCTURE THE PENALTY PROVISIONS, INCREASE CERTAIN PENALTIES, AND ADD THAT CRIMINAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CONVICTIONS IN OTHER STATES ARE TO BE CONSIDERED WHEN DETERMINING A PREVIOUS CONVICTION FOR PURPOSES OF ENHANCING THE PENALTY.
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(R321, H. 3326 (Word version)) -- Reps. Harrison and Cotty: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE WHEREBY A GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY WHICH HAS ASSUMED THE COST OF TRAINING A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER MAY BE REIMBURSED FOR THESE COSTS BY A GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY THAT SUBSEQUENTLY HIRES THE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER.
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(R322, H. 3723 (Word version)) -- Reps. Neilson, Anthony, Bales, Clyburn, Hodges, Hosey, Howard, Jefferson, Mack, Moss and Williams: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-155 SO AS TO REQUIRE, SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATIONS BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT IN THIS STATE TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT AN AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR PROGRAM FOR EACH HIGH SCHOOL IN THE DISTRICT WHICH REQUIRES THAT SUCH A DEFIBRILLATOR IS PROVIDED ON THE GROUNDS OF EACH HIGH SCHOOL, THAT DISTRICT EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS REASONABLY EXPECTED TO USE THE DEVICE, AS DETERMINED BY THE DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT OR THE SUPERINTENDENT'S DESIGNEE, ARE TRAINED IN ITS USE, AND THAT THESE DEVICES ARE PERIODICALLY INSPECTED AND MAINTAINED, TO PROVIDE THE DISTRICT SHALL DEFINE THE PROGRAM AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT OPERATES, TO PROVIDE IMMUNITY FROM CIVIL LIABILITY WITH RESPECT TO THIS PROGRAM EXCEPT FOR GROSSLY NEGLIGENT ACTS, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD TO ESTABLISH A STATE CONTRACT FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS.
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(R323, H. 3957 (Word version)) -- Rep. Harvin: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 44-39-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF THE DIABETES INITIATIVE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA AFFILIATE OF THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD; TO PROVIDE THAT THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTHEASTERN DIVISION OF THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD; AND TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE BOARD'S MEMBERSHIP INCLUDE AN APPOINTEE FROM THE JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE PLANNING AND OVERSIGHT.
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(R324, H. 4065 (Word version)) -- Rep. Harrison: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 62-1-302, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF THE PROBATE COURT, SO AS TO ADD THE WORD "GENERAL" BEFORE "PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES" IN CONNECTION WITH FORMAL PROCEEDINGS FOR THEIR APPOINTMENT.
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(R325, H. 4229 (Word version)) -- Rep. McLeod: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 14-25-130 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PREPARATION OF JURY LISTS FROM THE ELECTRONIC FILE OF PERSONS HOLDING A VALID STATE DRIVER'S LICENSE OR IDENTIFICATION CARD TO BE FURNISHED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO MUNICIPAL JURY COMMISSIONERS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 14-25-125 AND 14-25-155, BOTH RELATING TO THE COMPOSITION OF MUNICIPAL COURT JURY LISTS, BOTH SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE JURY LIST TO BE USED BY THE MUNICIPALITY IS THE LIST PREPARED BY THE JURY COMMISSIONERS FROM THE LATEST OFFICIAL LIST PROVIDED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 14-7-130, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PREPARATION OF JURY LISTS OF PERSONS HOLDING A VALID STATE DRIVER'S LICENSE OR IDENTIFICATION CARD, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PREPARATION OF JURY LISTS FROM THE ELECTRONIC FILE OF PERSONS HOLDING A VALID STATE DRIVER'S LICENSE OR IDENTIFICATION CARD TO BE FURNISHED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO COUNTY JURY COMMISSIONERS.
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(R326, H. 4363 (Word version)) -- Reps. Harrison, G.M. Smith, Delleney, Bales, McLeod, Hart and Weeks: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 1-23-660, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLE HEARINGS WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, DELETE THE PROVISION THAT REQUIRES THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT TO HIRE AND SUPERVISE A LAW CLERK TO ASSIST THE JUDGES WHO HEAR DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLE HEARING APPEALS WITH THE ADMINISTRATION OF THOSE APPEALS, TO PROVIDE THE PROCEDURE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MUST FOLLOW TO APPEAL A DECISION WHEN IT ELECTS TO NOT APPEAR AT CERTAIN HEARINGS, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT REQUIRES THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO PROVIDE FACILITIES FOR CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ENFORCEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF CERTAIN APPELLATE COURT RULES AND FOR THE ISSUANCE OF CERTAIN ADVISORY OPINIONS, TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN PERSONS MAY ATTEND CERTAIN JUDICIAL-RELATED OR BAR-RELATED FUNCTIONS, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ALLOWS THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE TO ADJUDICATE CASES UNDER SECTION 1-23-600; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-10, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF TERMS RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-170, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF RESTRICTED DRIVER'S LICENSE, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES THAT A HOLDER OF A RESTRICTED DRIVER'S LICENSE IS ENTITLED TO A HEARING UPON A SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF HIS LICENSE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A HOLDER OF THE LICENSE MAY REQUEST A HEARING BEFORE THE OFFICE OF MOTOR VEHICLE HEARINGS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-820, RELATING TO A DRIVER'S LICENSE HOLDER'S REQUEST FOR A HEARING AFTER HAVING RECEIVED A NOTICE OF SUSPENSION, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-1030, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE REVOCATION OF THE LICENSE OF AN HABITUAL OFFENDER, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE OFFICE OF MOTOR VEHICLE HEARINGS HAS EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION TO CONDUCT AN HABITUAL OFFENDER DRIVER'S LICENSE REVOCATION HEARING; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-1090, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE TO AN HABITUAL OFFENDER, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, AND TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES UPON WHICH AN HABITUAL OFFENDER MAY BE ISSUED A DRIVER'S LICENSE OR ALLOWED TO OPERATE A MOTOR VEHICLE; TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2952, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FILING FEE TO REQUEST AN ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-9-60, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SELF-INSURER'S FOR MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES RELATING TO THE CANCELLATION OF A SELF-INSURER'S STATUS; TO AMEND SECTION 56-9-363, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CERTAIN FORMS PRESCRIBED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-10-510, RELATING TO THE REGISTRATION OF AN UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLE, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-10-530, RELATING TO AN UNINSURED VEHICLE INVOLVED IN CERTAIN ACCIDENTS, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 56-15-350 AND SECTION 56-16-180, BOTH AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DENIAL OF, THE ISSUANCE OF, SUSPENSION, AND REVOCATION OF A DRIVER'S LICENSE, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY ADDING SECTION 27-21-22 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A SHERIFF, POLICE CHIEF, OR A DESIGNEE MAY SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION CERTAIN RECOVERED PROPERTY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 27-21-20, RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY RECOVERED BY A SHERIFF OR POLICE CHIEF, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROCEDURE WHEREBY AN OWNER OF RECOVERED PROPERTY MUST BE PROVIDED NOTICE THAT HIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN RECOVERED AND THAT THE PROPERTY MAY BE SOLD AT AUCTION.
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(R327, H. 4400 (Word version)) -- Reps. Harrell, Harrison, Cato, Cooper, Walker, Witherspoon, Merrill, Sandifer, Haley, Young, Erickson, Littlejohn, Simrill, Bowen, Crawford, Barfield, Cotty, Taylor, Spires, Davenport, E.H. Pitts, Frye, Lowe, Shoopman, Hardwick, Bingham, Skelton, Clemmons, Thompson, Bedingfield, Bannister, Mahaffey, Herbkersman, J.R. Smith, Haskins, Huggins, Hutson, Leach, Toole, Viers, Brady, Dantzler, Delleney, Gambrell, Hamilton, Kelly, Rice, Scarborough, G.M. Smith, G.R. Smith, Talley, Umphlett, Duncan, Owens, Mulvaney, White, Loftis and Edge: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION REFORM ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 1-31-40, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE STATE COMMISSION ON MINORITY AFFAIRS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN A HOTLINE FOR REPORTING IMMIGRATION VIOLATIONS; TO ADD CHAPTER 14 TO TITLE 8 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT EVERY PUBLIC EMPLOYER PARTICIPATE IN THE FEDERAL WORK AUTHORIZATION PROGRAM OR USE CERTAIN DOCUMENTS TO VERIFY ALL NEW EMPLOYEES, TO REQUIRE CONTRACTORS OR SUBCONTRACTORS WHO CONTRACT WITH PUBLIC EMPLOYERS FOR THE PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES TO REGISTER AND PARTICIPATE IN THE FEDERAL WORK AUTHORIZATION PROGRAM OR OTHERWISE VERIFY EMPLOYEES, TO DEFINE TERMS, TO ESTABLISH DEADLINES FOR COMPLIANCE BY PUBLIC EMPLOYERS, CONTRACTORS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS, TO REQUIRE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THE CHAPTER ARE ENFORCEABLE WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, RELIGION, GENDER, ETHNICITY, OR NATIONAL ORIGIN, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD TO PRESCRIBE FORMS AND PROMULGATE RULES NECESSARY TO ADMINISTER THE ACT AND PUBLISH THE RULES AND REGULATIONS ON THE BOARD'S WEBSITE; TO ADD SECTION 23-3-80 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE CHIEF OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION TO NEGOTIATE THE TERMS OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE STATE AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CONCERNING THE ENFORCEMENT OF FEDERAL IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS LAWS, DETENTION AND REMOVALS, AND INVESTIGATIONS IN THE STATE, TO AUTHORIZE THE CHIEF OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION TO DESIGNATE APPROPRIATE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TO BE TRAINED PURSUANT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING, TO STIPULATE THAT NO TRAINING SHALL TAKE PLACE UNTIL FUNDING IS SECURED, TO PERMIT THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS, A COUNTY SHERIFF, OR THE GOVERNING BODY OF A MUNICIPALITY THAT MAINTAINS A POLICE FORCE TO ENTER INTO THE MEMORANDUM AS A PARTY AND PROVIDE OFFICERS TO BE TRAINED, AND TO PROVIDE THAT AN OFFICER CERTIFIED AS TRAINED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MEMORANDUM IS AUTHORIZED TO ENFORCE FEDERAL IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS LAWS WHILE PERFORMING WITHIN THE SCOPE OF HIS OR HER DUTIES; TO ADD CHAPTER 29 TO TITLE 8 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT EVERY AGENCY OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE VERIFY THE LAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE UNITED STATES OF ANY 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 OR HER 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 MANDATE THAT A PERSON WHO KNOWINGLY AND WILFULLY MAKES A FALSE, FICTITIOUS, OR FRAUDULENT STATEMENT OR REPRESENTATION IN AN AFFIDAVIT EXECUTED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION, OR WHO AIDS OR ABETS A PERSON IN KNOWINGLY AND WILFULLY MAKING A FALSE, FICTITIOUS, OR FRAUDULENT STATEMENT OR REPRESENTATION IN AN AFFIDAVIT IS GUILTY OF A FELONY AND, UPON CONVICTION, MUST BE FINED OR IMPRISONED NOT MORE THAN FIVE YEARS, OR BOTH, AND MUST DISGORGE ANY BENEFIT RECEIVED AND MAKE RESTITUTION TO THE AGENCY WHO ADMINISTERED THE BENEFIT OR ENTITLEMENT, TO REQUIRE THAT IF THE AFFIDAVIT CONSTITUTES A FALSE CLAIM OF UNITED STATES CITIZENSHIP, THE STATE SHALL FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, TO PROVIDE THAT AGENCIES OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS MAY ADOPT VARIATIONS OF THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION TO REDUCE DELAY AND IMPROVE EFFICIENCY, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A STATE AGENCY OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION TO PROVIDE BENEFITS IN VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION, AND TO REQUIRE THAT ALL ERRORS AND DELAYS EXPERIENCED BY AGENCIES OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS IN THE SYSTEMATIC ALIEN VERIFICATION OF ENTITLEMENT PROGRAM BE REPORTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY; TO ADD CHAPTER 30 TO TITLE 8 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A DATABASE AND HOTLINE FOR REPORTING ALLEGATIONS OF VIOLATIONS OF ANY LAW BY A NONRESIDENT; TO ADD SECTION 12-6-1175 SO AS TO PROHIBIT WAGES OR REMUNERATION FOR LABOR SERVICES PAID TO AN INDIVIDUAL OF SIX HUNDRED DOLLARS OR MORE EACH YEAR FROM BEING CLAIMED AS A DEDUCTIBLE BUSINESS EXPENSE FOR STATE INCOME TAX PURPOSES UNLESS THE INDIVIDUAL IS AN AUTHORIZED EMPLOYEE, TO PROVIDE FOR EXEMPTIONS, AND TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PRESCRIBE FORMS AND PROMULGATE REGULATIONS TO EFFECTUATE THIS SECTION AND TO SEND WRITTEN NOTICE OF THIS PROVISION TO ALL EMPLOYERS IN THIS STATE; TO ADD SECTION 12-8-595 SO AS TO REQUIRE TAX WITHHOLDING AGENTS FOR EMPLOYERS TO WITHHOLD STATE INCOME TAX AT THE RATE OF SEVEN PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT OF COMPENSATION PAID TO AN INDIVIDUAL IF THE INDIVIDUAL HAS FAILED TO PRODUCE A TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER, OR A CORRECT TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER, OR PRODUCED A TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ISSUED FOR NONRESIDENTS, TO PROVIDE THAT WITHHOLDING AGENTS WHO FAIL TO FOLLOW THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION ARE LIABLE FOR THE TAX, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS FROM LIABILITY FOR WITHHOLDING AGENTS IF THE EMPLOYEE PROVIDES A FACIALLY CORRECT TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER THAT THE WITHHOLDING AGENT DOES NOT KNOW WAS FALSE OR INCORRECT, AND TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE SEND NOTICE OF THIS PROVISION TO ALL EMPLOYERS; TO ADD SECTION 16-9-460 SO AS SO MAKE IT A FELONY TO TRANSPORT, MOVE, OR ATTEMPT TO TRANSPORT WITHIN THE STATE A PERSON KNOWINGLY OR IN RECKLESS DISREGARD FOR THE FACT THAT THE PERSON IS NOT LEGALLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES, OR TO CONCEAL, HARBOR, OR SHELTER FROM DETECTION A PERSON IN ANY PLACE KNOWINGLY OR IN RECKLESS DISREGARD OF THE FACT THAT THE PERSON IS NOT LEGALLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES, PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR A CONVICTION FOR THAT CRIME, AND PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS; TO ADD SECTION 16-13-525 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR DISGORGEMENT OF ILLEGALLY RECEIVED BENEFITS AND FOR PERSONAL LIABILITY FOR IDENTITY THEFT IN CONNECTION WITH UNLAWFUL PRESENCE IN THIS STATE; TO ADD SECTION 23-3-1100 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT ALL JAILS OF THIS STATE OR ITS COUNTIES OR MUNICIPALITIES MAKE A REASONABLE EFFORT TO DETERMINE WHETHER A PERSON CHARGED WITH A FELONY OR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE IS LAWFULLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES, TO MAKE THE VERIFICATION WITHIN SEVENTY-TWO HOURS OF CONFINEMENT, TO NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY IF A PERSON IS NOT LAWFULLY IN THE UNITED STATES, AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS TO COMPLY WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION; TO ADD SECTION 41-1-30 SO AS TO PROVIDE A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION TO A PERSON WHO IS TERMINATED BY AN EMPLOYER IF THE PURPOSE FOR DISCHARGE WAS TO REPLACE THE WORKER WITH ANOTHER PERSON WHOM THE EMPLOYER KNEW OR SHOULD HAVE KNOWN WAS NOT LAWFULLY ADMITTED TO THE UNITED STATES OR NOT AUTHORIZED TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES, AND PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS; TO ADD CHAPTER 83 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO ADD THE "REGISTRATION OF IMMIGRATION SERVICE ACT" TO REQUIRE ALL IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE SERVICES TO OBTAIN A BUSINESS LICENSE FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, LIST THE SERVICES THAT IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE SERVICES MAY PROVIDE, PROHIBIT IMMIGRATION SERVICES FROM ACCEPTING PAYMENT IN EXCHANGE FOR PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE, REFUSING TO RETURN DOCUMENTS SUPPLIED BY, PREPARED FOR, OR PAID FOR BY A CUSTOMER, REPRESENTING OR ADVERTISING, IN CONNECTION WITH PROVIDING IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE SERVICES, CERTAIN TITLES TO INCLUDE "NOTARY PUBLIC", OR "IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT", OR PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE, OR MAKING ANY MISREPRESENTATION OR FALSE STATEMENT TO INFLUENCE, PERSUADE, OR INDUCE PATRONAGE, PROVIDE FOR CIVIL AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION TO PROMULGATE RULES TO EFFECTUATE THIS SUBSECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 14-7-1630, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO STATE GRAND JURY JURISDICTION, SO AS TO INCLUDE CASES INVOLVING ILLEGAL ACTS IN FURTHERANCE OF UNLAWFUL PRESENCE IN THE STATE; TO ADD SECTION 16-23-530 SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR ONE UNLAWFULLY PRESENT TO POSSESS OR TRANSFER A FIREARM; TO AMEND SECTION 17-15-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CONDITIONS FOR GRANTING RELEASE, SO AS TO INCLUDE CONSIDERATION BY THE COURT OF UNLAWFUL PRESENCE IN THIS STATE WHEN GRANTING BOND; TO ADD SECTION 59-101-430 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A PERSON NOT LAWFULLY IN THIS STATE FROM ATTENDING, OR RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID TO ATTEND, A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING; TO ADD SECTION 6-1-170 SO AS TO PREEMPT LOCAL LAWS IN CONNECTION WITH UNLAWFUL PRESENCE IN THIS STATE; AND TO ADD CHAPTER 8 TO TITLE 41 SO AS TO REQUIRE PRIVATE EMPLOYERS IN THIS STATE TO VERIFY THE LAWFUL PRESENCE OF THEIR EMPLOYEES, TO PROVIDE FOR LICENSING AND INVESTIGATION BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING, AND REGULATION AND ENFORCEMENT BY THE DEPARTMENT, TO REQUIRE ASSISTANCE AND ACCESS FOR EMPLOYERS FROM THE EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
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(R328, H. 4529 (Word version)) -- Reps. Weeks, Whipper and R. Brown: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 37-25-70, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR ILLEGALLY DISPENSING CONTACT LENSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE RELIEF IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT FOR A CONTESTED CASE, AND TO DELETE CERTAIN NOTICE PROVISIONS IMPOSED ON THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS.
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(R329, H. 4601 (Word version)) -- Reps. W.D. Smith, Cobb-Hunter, Talley, Hagood, Scott, Viers, Mitchell, Clemmons and Whipper: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1180, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO VICTIMS' COMPENSATION AWARDS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE OFFICE OF VICTIM ASSISTANCE TO AUTHORIZE ADDITIONAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING FOR VICTIMS; TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1230, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CRIME VICTIMS' COMPENSATION CLAIMS, SO AS TO ALLOW CLAIM SUBMISSION VIA FACSIMILE OR OTHER ELECTRONIC MEANS; TO AMEND ARTICLE 14, CHAPTER 3 OF TITLE 16, RELATING TO THE VICTIM/WITNESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, SO AS TO RESTRUCTURE THE PROGRAM TO EMPOWER THE STATE OFFICE OF VICTIM ASSISTANCE TO PROVIDE CERTAIN SERVICES CURRENTLY PROVIDED BY THE VICTIM COMPENSATION FUND, TO RESTRUCTURE THE VICTIMS' SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED, AND TO CREATE THE VICTIM SERVICES COORDINATING COUNCIL AND PROVIDE FOR ITS MEMBERSHIP; TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1620, RELATING TO THE CRIME VICTIMS' OMBUDSMAN OF THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFICE OF VICTIM SERVICES EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION WITHIN THE OFFICE OF THE CRIME VICTIMS' OMBUDSMAN AND ESTABLISH CERTIFICATION AND CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR VICTIM SERVICE PROVIDERS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-1680 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE CRIME VICTIMS' OMBUDSMAN TO PROMULGATE NECESSARY REGULATIONS.
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(R330, H. 4662 (Word version)) -- Reps. Walker, Harrell, Whitmire, Toole, Gullick, Spires, Hiott, Bannister, J.R. Smith, Loftis, Ballentine, Pinson, Cotty, Brady, Bedingfield, Hardwick, Edge, Herbkersman, Lowe, Crawford, Limehouse, Hamilton, G.R. Smith, Harrison, Duncan, Bowen, Huggins, Mahaffey, Erickson, Leach, Owens, Frye, Rice, Hutson, Bingham, Haskins, Littlejohn, Cato, Chalk, Clyburn, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Gambrell, Kelly, Lucas, Merrill, Moss, Neilson, E.H. Pitts, Sandifer, Scarborough, Shoopman, Skelton, D.C. Smith, G.M. Smith, W.D. Smith, Talley, Taylor, Umphlett, Viers, White, Witherspoon, Young, Barfield, Knight, Miller, Battle, Perry, Bales, Phillips, J.M. Neal, R. Brown and Whipper: AN ACT TO AMEND CHAPTER 18, TITLE 59, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, SO AS TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH STUDENTS ARE ASSESSED AND SCHOOLS AND DISTRICTS ARE ASSESSED AND ACCREDITED, TO PROVIDE FOR DESIGNATION TO SIGNIFY VARYING LEVELS OF SCHOOL ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, AND TO REVISE AND FURTHER PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS REGARDING EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY; TO PROVIDE THAT THE PALMETTO ACHIEVEMENT CHALLENGE TEST DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF CHAPTER 18 OF TITLE 59 AS OF JULY 1, 2008; AND TO AMEND SECTION 59-67-270, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO INSPECTION OF SCHOOL BUSES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL BUSES MAY BE INSPECTED BY EITHER THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OR THE FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE USE OF THE MONETARY SAVINGS FROM THE REVISED INSPECTION PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION.
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(R331, H. 4713 (Word version)) -- Rep. White: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 25-11-80, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO STATE VETERANS' CEMETERIES AND QUALIFICATIONS TO RECEIVE A PLOT IN A STATE VETERANS' CEMETERY, SO AS TO REDUCE FROM TWENTY YEARS TO FIVE YEARS THE TIME A VETERAN MUST HAVE BEEN A RESIDENT OF THIS STATE IN ORDER TO MEET ONE OF THE QUALIFICATIONS, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR OTHER QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECTION AS TO WHEN THE VETERAN WAS REQUIRED TO BE A RESIDENT OF THIS STATE.
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(R332, H. 4746 (Word version)) -- Rep. Bowers: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 40-29-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA MANUFACTURED HOUSING BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ONE MEMBER OF THE BOARD MUST BE A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE MANUFACTURED HOUSING INDUSTRY FROM A LIST OF CANDIDATES SUBMITTED TO THE GOVERNOR BY THE MANUFACTURED HOUSING INSTITUTE OF SOUTH CAROLINA; TO AMEND SECTION 40-29-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF TERMS USED IN THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF THE MANUFACTURED HOUSING INDUSTRY, SO AS TO DEFINE MANUFACTURED HOME APPRENTICE RETAIL SALESPERSON AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-29-200, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO MANUFACTURED HOUSING LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR AN APPRENTICE SALESPERSON LICENSE.
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(R333, H. 4900 (Word version)) -- Reps. Cato, Gambrell, Bowen, Mitchell, Hiott, J.R. Smith, Kelly, Brady, Walker, Bedingfield, Agnew, Barfield, Battle, Bowers, Clemmons, Gullick, Limehouse, Loftis, Lowe, Mahaffey, Moss, Owens, Pinson, Sandifer, D.C. Smith, Spires, Talley, Toole, White, Hardwick and Whipper: AN ACT TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING CHAPTER 51 TO TITLE 23 SO AS TO ENACT THE "REDUCED CIGARETTE IGNITION PROPENSITY STANDARDS AND FIREFIGHTER PROTECTION ACT", TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR TERMS CONTAINED IN THIS ACT, TO PROVIDE THAT CIGARETTES MAY NOT BE SOLD OR OFFERED FOR SALE IN THIS STATE UNLESS THEY HAVE BEEN TESTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH CERTAIN TEST METHODS, MET CERTAIN PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, RECEIVED CERTAIN CERTIFICATIONS, AND HAVE BEEN PROPERLY MARKED, TO SPECIFY THE TESTING METHODS AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS THAT MUST BE MET.
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(R334, H. 4921 (Word version)) -- Reps. Moss, M.A. Pitts, Lowe, Phillips and Pinson: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 47-1-10, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN REGARD TO CRUELTY TO ANIMALS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "ANIMAL"; TO AMEND SECTION 47-1-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ILL-TREATMENT OF ANIMALS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR EXCEPTIONS TO THE SECTION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 47-3-630, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PENALTIES IN REGARD TO TEASING, MALTREATING, OR INJURING POLICE DOGS OR HORSES, SO AS TO REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS INCLUDING MAKING A PARTICULAR OFFENSE A FELONY.
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(R335, H. 4930 (Word version)) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, Cato and Bannister: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 16-17-680, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL PURCHASE OF COPPER, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO PURCHASE NONFERROUS METALS FROM A PERSON WHO IS NOT AN AUTHORIZED RETAILER OR WHOLESALER UNLESS THE PERSON IS A SECONDARY METALS RECYLCLER AND VERIFIES THE SELLER'S NAME AND ADDRESS, CERTAIN OTHER IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS ARE MET, THE SECONDARY METALS RECYCLER MAY ONLY PURCHASE NONFERROUS METALS FOR CASH CONSIDERATION, PROCEDURES FOR WRITTEN HOLD NOTICES ARE CREATED WHEN LAW ENFORCEMENT HAS REASONABLE CAUSE TO BELIEVE THE NONFERROUS METAL IS STOLEN, TO DEFINE CERTAIN NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR ALUMINUM CANS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR PREEMPTION OF LOCAL ORDINANCES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-523 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO WILFULLY AND MALICIOUSLY CUT, MUTILATE, OR DEFACE REAL PROPERTY FOR THE PURPOSE OF OBTAINING NONFERROUS METALS, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO PROVIDE CIVIL LIABILITY FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE ATTEMPTED THEFT OF NONFERROUS METALS.
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(R336, H. 4934 (Word version)) -- Education and Public Works Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO SCHOOL-TO-WORK TRANSITION ACT, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3137, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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(R337, H. 4935 (Word version)) -- Education and Public Works Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO FREE TEXTBOOKS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 3138, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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On motion of Senator RITCHIE, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. William Benson Darwin, Sr. of Spartanburg, S.C.

At 3:37 P.M., on motion of Senator McCONNELL, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.

This web page was last updated on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 1:51 P.M.