South Carolina General Assembly
119th Session, 2011-2012
Journal of the Senate

Thursday, March 1, 2012
(Statewide Session)

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:

In Isaiah we find this telling verse:

" This is what the Lord says: 'Maintain justice and do what is right, for my salvation is close at hand and my righteousness will soon be revealed.' "         (Isaiah 56:1)
Join me as we bow in prayer:

Truly, O God, we ask that you fill the hearts and spirits of each of these servants with your love and grant them a true concern for the well-being of all of our state's citizens. May the efforts and actions carried out by this body be those that ultimately benefit all of South Carolina. Give to each Senator an awareness of the need for just and right decisions, for in this day and time such are more important than ever. Strengthen and guide them all, O God. We pray this in your loving name, dear Lord.
Amen.

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

Doctor of the Day

Senator CROMER introduced Dr. Robert Livingston of Newberry, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence Rescinded

On motion of Senator LEATHERMAN, the leave of absence which was granted to him for today was rescinded.

Leave of Absence

At 11:05 A.M., Senator REESE requested a leave of absence beginning at 11:30 A.M. and lasting until 2:30 P.M.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator HAYES, at 11:05 A.M., Senator THOMAS was granted a leave of absence for today.

Leave of Absence

At 11:05 A.M., Senator HAYES requested a leave of absence beginning at 12:00 Noon, for the balance of the day.

Leave of Absence

At 12:30 P.M., Senator CAMPSEN requested a leave of absence for the balance of the day.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 862 (Word version)     Sen. Verdin

Privilege of the Chamber

On motion of Senators KNOTTS, CROMER, SETZLER and COURSON, with unanimous consent, the Privilege of the Chamber was extended to Mr. Arjun Aggarwal to offer the congratulations and heartfelt good wishes of the Senate upon the occasion of his award of the 2011 Davidson Fellow by the Davidson Institute for Talent Development which is accompanied by a $25,000 scholarship for scientific research and leadership in the field of robotic technology.

RECALLED

S. 1238 (Word version) -- Senator S. Martin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 150 IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 176 TO THE SPARTANBURG/CHEROKEE COUNTY LINE "ERNIE WHITE MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY THAT CONTAIN THE WORDS "ERNIE WHITE MEMORIAL HIGHWAY".

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

The Concurrent Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

RECALLED

H. 4716 (Word version) -- Rep. Hayes: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 57-23-855 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MAY MAINTAIN AND MOW ROADSIDE VEGETATION BEYOND THIRTY FEET FROM THE PAVEMENT ADJACENT TO EXIT 190 ALONG INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 95 IN DILLON COUNTY.

Senator GROOMS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Transportation.

The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:
S. 1284 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR JAMES R. FRAZIER FOR MORE THAN THIRTY YEARS OF FAITHFUL SERVICE ON THE HORRY COUNTY COUNCIL, AND TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS DEDICATION AND LEADERSHIP ON BEHALF OF THE CITIZENS IN HIS COMMUNITY.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1285 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Cromer, Anderson, McConnell, Campsen, Land, Campbell, Grooms, Verdin, Rose, Thomas and Cleary: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 22-5-190 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO ENDORSEMENT AND EXECUTION OF WARRANTS ISSUED IN OTHER COUNTIES OR BY MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES, TO PROVIDE THAT A WARRANT IS NOT REQUIRED TO BE ENDORSED BY A MAGISTRATE IN THE COUNTY WHERE A PERSON CHARGED WITH A CRIME RESIDES OR IS LOCATED, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR SERVING A WARRANT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1286 (Word version) -- Senator Sheheen: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-11-250 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR LICENSURE AS A GENERAL OR MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR, TO INCREASE THE LENGTH OF LICENSURE FROM TWO TO FIVE YEARS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 1287 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY BOARD, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS; LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT; AND FEES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4246, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1288 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF LICENSURE FOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4244, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1289 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF LONG TERM HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATORS, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF LICENSURE FOR LONG TERM HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATORS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4242, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1290 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF DENTISTRY, RELATING TO REGISTRATION OF LICENSES OR CERTIFICATES; ANNUAL ELECTION OF THE BOARD; AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4232, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1291 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS, RELATING TO ORGANIZATION, ADMINISTRATION AND PROCEDURE, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4228, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1292 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, RELATING TO PHYSICAL FITNESS SERVICES CENTER - CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4205, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1293 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY EXAMINERS, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF LICENSURE FOR PHYSICAL THERAPISTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4248, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1294 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTICIANRY, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF LICENSURE FOR OPTICIANS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4247, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1295 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN PSYCHOLOGY, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4251, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1296 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF PODIATRY EXAMINERS, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF LICENSURE FOR PODIATRISTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4250, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1297 (Word version) -- Medical Affairs Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF LICENSURE FOR SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS AND AUDIOLOGISTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4254, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1298 (Word version) -- Senator McGill: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 84 OF 2011, RELATING TO THE FLORENCE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NUMBER THREE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO MODIFY THE PROCEDURE FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE DISTRICT BUDGET AND PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND FINAL APPROVAL OF THE ANNUAL BUDGET FOR THE DISTRICT.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

S. 1299 (Word version) -- Senators Cleary and McGill: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 54-15-20 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMISSIONERS OF PILOTAGE FOR THE UPPER COASTAL AREA, TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF MEMBERS ON THE COMMISSION FROM SIX TO EIGHT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 1300 (Word version) -- Senator Leventis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-20 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT TO BE ISSUED A DRIVER'S LICENSE TO OPERATE A MOTOR VEHICLE IN THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON MAY NOT HAVE MORE THAN ONE VALID IDENTIFICATION, DRIVER'S LICENSE, OR SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD; TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-3350, RELATING TO SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS, TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON MAY NOT HAVE MORE THAN ONE VALID IDENTIFICATION, DRIVER'S LICENSE, OR SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD; AND TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-50, RELATING TO THE ALLOCATION OF FEES TO THE STATE NON-FEDERAL AID HIGHWAY FUND, TO PROVIDE THAT ALL FEES DERIVED FROM ISSUING BEGINNER'S PERMITS ARE CREDITED TO THE FUND.
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Senator LEVENTIS spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 1301 (Word version) -- Senator Fair: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 6-11-335 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TO ENSURE A REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNING BODY ABOVE A SIZE OF THREE, AN ELECTED GOVERNING BODY OF A PUBLIC SERVICE DISTRICT LOCATED WHOLLY IN ONE COUNTY WHICH PROVIDES WATER, SEWER, OR FIRE SERVICE WITHIN ITS SERVICE AREA MAY BE ENLARGED BY ADDITIONAL MEMBERS IN THE MANNER AND UNDER THE PROCEDURES SPECIFIED IN THIS SECTION.
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Read the first time and, on motion of Senator FAIR, with unanimous consent, S. 1301 was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

H. 4632 (Word version) -- Rep. Battle: A BILL TO FORM ALL SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN MARION COUNTY INTO A SINGLE SCHOOL DISTRICT ENTITLED THE "MARION COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT" ON JULY 1, 2012, TO PROVIDE THAT THERE MUST BE NO ELECTED COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION FOR MARION COUNTY WITH ALL POWERS AND DUTIES OF THIS OFFICE DEVOLVED UPON THE MARION COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION WHICH MUST BE THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE MARION SCHOOL DISTRICT, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANAGERIAL AND OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF FOR THE DISTRICT, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH CONTRACTS OF EMPLOYMENT FOR TEACHERS AND OTHER PROFESSIONAL PERSONNEL OF THE DISTRICT MUST BE OFFERED, TO PROVIDE FOR THE FISCAL AUTHORITY AND AFFAIRS OF THE DISTRICT, INCLUDING THE MANNER IN WHICH AD VALOREM TAXES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE DISTRICT MUST BE LEVIED FOR OPERATING AND GENERAL OBLIGATION DEBT PURPOSES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER RELATED PROVISIONS TO EFFECTUATE THIS FORMATION ON JULY 1, 2012.

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

H. 4936 (Word version) -- Reps. Owens, Agnew, Alexander, Allen, Allison, Anderson, Anthony, Atwater, Bales, Ballentine, Bannister, Barfield, Battle, Bedingfield, Bikas, Bingham, Bowen, Bowers, Brady, Branham, Brannon, Brantley, G. A. Brown, H. B. Brown, R. L. Brown, Butler Garrick, Chumley, Clemmons, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cole, Corbin, Crawford, Crosby, Daning, Delleney, Dillard, Edge, Erickson, Forrester, Frye, Funderburk, Gambrell, Gilliard, Govan, Hamilton, Hardwick, Harrell, Harrison, Hart, Hayes, Hearn, Henderson, Herbkersman, Hiott, Hixon, Hodges, Horne, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Jefferson, Johnson, King, Knight, Limehouse, Loftis, Long, Lowe, Lucas, Mack, McCoy, McEachern, McLeod, Merrill, D. C. Moss, V. S. Moss, Munnerlyn, Murphy, Nanney, J. H. Neal, J. M. Neal, Neilson, Norman, Ott, Parker, Parks, Patrick, Pinson, Pitts, Pope, Putnam, Quinn, Rutherford, Ryan, Sabb, Sandifer, Sellers, Simrill, Skelton, G. M. Smith, G. R. Smith, J. E. Smith, J. R. Smith, Sottile, Southard, Spires, Stavrinakis, Stringer, Tallon, Taylor, Thayer, Toole, Tribble, Vick, Viers, Weeks, Whipper, White, Whitmire, Williams, Willis and Young: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR TWENTY OF SOUTH CAROLINA'S TECHNICAL COLLEGE STUDENTS FOR THEIR SCHOLARLY ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND SERVICE TO THEIR COMMUNITIES, AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM FOR BEING NAMED TO SOUTH CAROLINA'S 2012 ACADEMIC ALL-STATE TEAM SPONSORED BY THE PHI THETA KAPPA HONOR SOCIETY.

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

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

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

S. 566 (Word version) -- Senators Leventis, Ford, Elliott, Reese, Ryberg, Setzler and Land: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-63-120, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS OF THE SAFE SCHOOL CLIMATE ACT, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF HARASSMENT TO INCLUDE MOTIVATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-63-140, RELATING TO LOCAL DISTRICT POLICIES PROHIBITING HARASSMENT, SO AS TO INCLUDE PROCEDURES AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR ACTS OF HARASSMENT, AND TO REQUIRE LOCAL DISTRICTS TO POST A LINK TO THE POLICY ON THEIR WEBSITES; TO AMEND SECTION 59-63-150, RELATING TO AVAILABILITY OF CIVIL OR CRIMINAL REDRESS, SO AS TO INCLUDE PROVISIONS REGARDING THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE ARTICLE; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-160 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR THE FILING OF REPORTS, NOTIFICATION TO THE DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT AND TO THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES, TO PROVIDE A PROCESS FOR GRADING SCHOOLS AND DISTRICTS WITH REGARD TO HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING, AND TO PROVIDE FOR PUBLICATION OF THE SCHOOL AND DISTRICT GRADE ON ITS WEBSITE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator FAIR from the Committee on Corrections and Penology submitted a favorable report on:

S. 1099 (Word version) -- Senator Fair: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-650 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF JUVENILE PAROLE SHALL RECEIVE A HEARING FEE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator PEELER from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3793 (Word version) -- Reps. Thayer, Whitmire, H.B. Brown, G.R. Smith, Gambrell, Bowen, Hardwick, Clemmons, Mitchell, Parks, Atwater, Butler Garrick, Pinson, Corbin, Norman, Viers, Erickson, Hearn, Murphy, Allison, McCoy, Govan, Agnew, Hosey, Hiott, Patrick, Chumley, Brannon, Battle, Brady, R.L. Brown, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cole, Daning, Delleney, Funderburk, Hamilton, Harrison, Hayes, Henderson, Horne, Lucas, D.C. Moss, V.S. Moss, Nanney, J.M. Neal, Owens, Pitts, Pope, Ryan, Sabb, Sandifer, Simrill, J.R. Smith, Stringer, Tallon, Taylor, White, Cooper, Quinn, Lowe, Barfield, Munnerlyn, Weeks, Putnam, Gilliard, Branham, Alexander, Jefferson, Spires, Willis, Frye, Ballentine, Huggins, King, Anderson and Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 44-53-190, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MATERIALS, COMPOUNDS, MIXTURES, AND PREPARATIONS CLASSIFIED AS SCHEDULE I CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, INCLUDING HALLUCINOGENICS, SO AS TO ADD METHYLONE, MDPV, MEPHEDRONE, METHOXYMETHCATHINONE, AND FLUROROMETHCATHINONE, COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS "BATH SALTS", TO THE LIST OF SCHEDULE I DRUGS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

HOUSE CONCURRENCES

The following Resolutions were returned with concurrence and received as information:

S. 1264 (Word version) -- Senators Campbell, Grooms and Campsen: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE GOOSE CREEK HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM FOR AN OUTSTANDING SEASON, AND TO CONGRATULATE THE TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR CAPTURING THE 2011 SOUTH CAROLINA CLASS AAAA, DIVISION II, STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.

S. 1271 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY GUNNERY SERGEANT RALPH EARL PATE, JR., UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, WHILE SERVING A TOUR OF DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE PROFOUND APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1272 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY SERGEANT FIRST CLASS ALVIN A. BOATWRIGHT OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE DEEPEST APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1273 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY SERGEANT RYAN D. SHARP OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE PROFOUND APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1274 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY PRIVATE FIRST CLASS KALIN C.L. JOHNSON OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE DEEPEST APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1275 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY SERGEANT FIRST CLASS ANTHONY VENETZ, JR. OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE DEEPEST APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1276 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY SERGEANT LASHAWN D. EVANS OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN IRAQ, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE DEEPEST APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1277 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY PRIVATE FIRST CLASS JUSTIN M. WHITMIRE OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE PROFOUND APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1278 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY SERGEANT FIRST CLASS JOHNATHAN BRYANT MCCAIN OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE PROFOUND APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1279 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY SENIOR AIRMAN NICHOLAS J. ALDEN OF THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE WHILE EN ROUTE TO A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE DEEPEST APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1280 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY STAFF SERGEANT THOMAS J. DUDLEY OF THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS WHILE HE WAS SERVING A TOUR OF MILITARY DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE PROFOUND APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1281 (Word version) -- Senators Knotts, Alexander, Anderson, Bright, Bryant, Campbell, Campsen, Cleary, Coleman, Courson, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fair, Ford, Gregory, Grooms, Hayes, Hutto, Jackson, Land, Leatherman, Leventis, Lourie, Malloy, L. Martin, S. Martin, Massey, Matthews, McConnell, McGill, Nicholson, O'Dell, Peeler, Pinckney, Rankin, Reese, Rose, Ryberg, Scott, Setzler, Sheheen, Shoopman, Thomas, Verdin and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THE SUPREME SACRIFICE MADE BY PRIVATE FIRST CLASS CHEZIRAY PRESSLEY, UNITED STATES ARMY, WHILE SERVING A TOUR OF DUTY IN AFGHANISTAN, AND TO EXPRESS TO HIS FAMILY THE DEEPEST APPRECIATION OF A GRATEFUL STATE AND NATION FOR HIS LIFE, SACRIFICE, AND SERVICE.

S. 1283 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Bryant, Verdin, Ryberg, Hayes, Rose, Davis, Cromer, Campsen, L. Martin, Alexander, Thomas, Massey, Bright and Shoopman: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE MANY CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY PREGNANCY CARE CENTERS AND TO COMMEND THE COMPASSIONATE WORK PERFORMED BY STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS AT PREGNANCY CENTERS ACROSS THE STATE AND THE NATION.

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

READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 704 (Word version) -- Senators S. Martin and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-59-40 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE METHOD AND TERMS OF SALE OF FORFEITED LANDS, TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR MAY BID IN FOR THAT COUNTY'S FORFEITED LAND COMMISSION ON PROPERTY SOLD FOR NONPAYMENT OF AD VALOREM TAXES AND TO PROVIDE THAT LANDS DEEDED TO THE COMMISSION ARE ONLY COUNTY ASSETS, NOT STATE ASSETS, AND MUST BE SOLD TO THE BEST INTEREST OF THE COUNTY, NOT THE COUNTY AND THE STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-59-50, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION TO THE COMMISSION FOR APPROVAL TO SELL FORFEITED LAND BY THE FORMER OWNER, TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO DELINQUENT STATE TAXES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-59-70, RELATING TO THE CONVEYANCE OF PROPERTY BY THE COMMISSION OF FORFEITED LAND SOLD BY THE FORMER OWNER, TO PROVIDE THAT THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR, RATHER THAN THE SHERIFF, MUST DELIVER THE TITLE TO THE FORFEITED LAND COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 12-59-80, RELATING TO THE ASSIGNMENT OF COMMISSION BIDS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE CHAIRMAN OF A COUNTY FORFEITED LAND COMMISSION MAY ACCEPT BIDS FOR ASSIGNMENTS OF THE COMMISSION'S BIDS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-59-90, RELATING TO THE EXECUTION OF DEEDS AND VALIDATION OF CERTAIN DEEDS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR MAY EXECUTE A DEED TO THE PURCHASER OF PROPERTY BID IN BY THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR FOR THAT COUNTY'S FORFEITED LAND COMMISSION ON PROPERTY SOLD FOR NONPAYMENT OF AD VALOREM TAXES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-59-100, RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF FORFEITED PROPERTY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE NET PROCEEDS MUST GO TO THE COUNTY IN WHICH THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 12-59-30.

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

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

Ayes 35; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bright
Bryant                    Campbell                  Campsen
Cleary                    Coleman                   Courson
Davis                     Fair                      Grooms
Hayes                     Jackson                   Knotts
Land                      Leatherman                Leventis
Lourie                    Malloy                    Martin, Larry
Martin, Shane             McConnell                 Nicholson
O'Dell                    Peeler                    Rankin
Rose                      Ryberg                    Scott
Setzler                   Sheheen                   Shoopman
Verdin                    Williams

Total--35

NAYS

Total--0

The Bill was read the second time and ordered placed on the Third Reading Calendar.

READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 126 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, McConnell, Fair, Rose and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 63-5-30, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EQUAL RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF PARENTS REGARDING MINOR CHILDREN, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IN ADDITION TO EQUAL ACCESS AND EQUAL RIGHTS TO OBTAIN EDUCATIONAL AND MEDICAL RECORDS, A PARENT HAS EQUAL ACCESS AND EQUAL RIGHTS TO OBTAIN A MINOR CHILD'S COUNSELING AND THERAPY RECORDS.

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

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

Ayes 36; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bright
Bryant                    Campbell                  Campsen
Cleary                    Coleman                   Courson
Cromer                    Davis                     Fair
Gregory                   Grooms                    Knotts
Land                      Leatherman                Leventis
Lourie                    Malloy                    Martin, Larry
Martin, Shane             Massey                    McConnell
McGill                    Nicholson                 O'Dell
Peeler                    Rankin                    Rose
Scott                     Setzler                   Sheheen
Shoopman                  Verdin                    Williams

Total--36

NAYS

Total--0

The Bill was read the second time and ordered placed on the Third Reading Calendar.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT WITHDRAWN
AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 3393 (Word version) -- Rep. Sandifer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 32-8-320, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PERSONS WHO MAY SERVE AS A DECEDENT'S AGENT TO AUTHORIZE CREMATION, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THOSE PERSONS WHO IN ORDER OF PRIORITY MAY AUTHORIZE CREMATION.

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

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD3393.002), which was withdrawn:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Section 32-8-320 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 221 of 2010, is further amended to read:

"Section 32-8-320.   (A)   In the following order of priority these persons may serve as a decedent's agent and in the absence of a preneed cremation authorization may authorize cremation of the decedent:

(1)   the person designated as agent for this purpose by the decedent in a will or other verified and attested document, or a person named in the decedent's United States Department of Defense Record of Emergency Data Form (DD Form 93), or its successor form, if the decedent died while serving in any branch of the United States Armed Services, as defined in 10 U.S.C. Section 1481, and there is no known designation in a will or other verified and attested document of the decedent;

(2)   the spouse of the decedent at the time of the decedent's death, unless the spouse and the decedent are separated pursuant to one of the following:

(a)   entry of a pendente lite order in a divorce or separate maintenance action;

(b)   formal signing of a written property or marital settlement agreement;

(c)   entry of a permanent order of separate maintenance and support or of a permanent order approving a property or marital settlement agreement between the spouse and the decedent;

(3)   the decedent's surviving adult children;

(4)   the decedent's surviving parents;

(5)   the persons in the next degree of kinship under the laws of descent and distribution to inherit the estate of the decedent adult siblings of the decedent;

(6)   a person named in the decedent's will to serve as executor or legal representative of the decedent's estate;

(7)   the adult grandchildren of the decedent;

(8)   the grandparents of the decedent;

(9)   the person appointed by the probate court as the guardian; and

(10)   any other person authorized or under obligation by law to dispose of the body.

(B)   If there is more than one member of a class listed in subsection (A)(1), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), or (10) entitled to authorize the cremation of the decedent, the authorization to cremate may be made by a member of the class unless the member knows of an objection by another member within the class. If an objection is known, the authorization to cremate may be made only by a majority of the members of the class who are reasonably available.

(C)   A person may not execute an authorization to cremate if a person in a prior class is reasonably available to make or object to the execution of the authorization to cremate the decedent.

(D)   In the absence of a person serving as a decedent's agent pursuant to subsection (A), the following may serve as an agent and may authorize a decedent's cremation:

(1)   a person serving as executor or legal representative of the decedent's estate and acting according to the decedent's written instructions;

(2)   a public administrator, medical examiner, coroner, state appointed guardian, or other public official charged with arranging the final disposition of the decedent if the decedent is indigent or if the final disposition is the responsibility of the State or an instrumentality of the State.; or

(3)   the adult who exhibited special care and concern for the decedent.

(C)(E)   If a dispute arises among persons of equal priority, as provided for in subsection (A), concerning the creation cremation of a decedent, the matter must be resolved by order of the probate court.

(F)   If a funeral home handling funeral arrangements for a decedent transfers the decedent's body to another funeral home solely for cremation purposes, the funeral home performing the cremation may, in good faith, rely on a cremation authorization document executed at the funeral home handling the funeral arrangements."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LARRY MARTIN asked unanimous consent to withdraw the committee amendment.

There was no objection and the committee amendment was withdrawn.

Senator SETZLER proposed the following amendment (JUD3393.003), which was adopted:

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

/   SECTION   1.   Section 32-8-320 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 221 of 2010, is further amended to read:

"Section 32-8-320.   (A)   In the following order of priority these persons may serve as a decedent's agent and in the absence of a preneed cremation authorization may authorize cremation of the decedent:

(1)   the person designated as agent for this purpose by the decedent in a will or other verified and attested document, or a person named in the decedent's United States Department of Defense Record of Emergency Data Form (DD Form 93), or its successor form, if the decedent died while serving in any branch of the United States Armed Services, as defined in 10 U.S.C. Section 1481, and there is no known designation in a will or other verified and attested document of the decedent;

(2)   the spouse of the decedent at the time of the decedent's death, unless the spouse and the decedent are separated pursuant to one of the following:

(a)   entry of a pendente lite order in a divorce or separate maintenance action;

(b)   formal signing of a written property or marital settlement agreement;

(c)   entry of a permanent order of separate maintenance and support or of a permanent order approving a property or marital settlement agreement between the spouse and the decedent;

(3)   the decedent's surviving adult children;

(4)   the decedent's surviving parents;

(5)   the persons in the next degree of kinship under the laws of descent and distribution to inherit the estate of the decedent adult siblings of the decedent;

(6)   the adult grandchildren of the decedent;

(7)   the grandparents of the decedent;

(8)   the person appointed by the probate court as the guardian; and

(9)   any other person authorized or under obligation by law to dispose of the body.

(B)   If there is more than one member of a class listed in subsection (A)(1), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), or (9) entitled to authorize the cremation of the decedent, the authorization to cremate may be made by a member of the class unless the member knows of an objection by another member within the class. If an objection is known, the authorization to cremate may be made only by a majority of the members of the class who are reasonably available.

(C)   A person may not execute an authorization to cremate if a person in a prior class is reasonably available to make or object to the execution of the authorization to cremate the decedent.

(D)   In the absence of a person serving as a decedent's agent pursuant to subsection (A), the following may serve as an agent and may authorize a decedent's cremation:

(1)   a person serving as executor or legal representative of the decedent's estate and acting according to the decedent's written instructions;

(2)   a public administrator, medical examiner, coroner, state appointed guardian, or other public official charged with arranging the final disposition of the decedent if the decedent is indigent or if the final disposition is the responsibility of the State or an instrumentality of the State.; or

(3)   the adult who exhibited special care and concern for the decedent.

(C)(E)   If a dispute arises among persons of equal priority, as provided for in subsection (A), concerning the creation of

a decedent, the matter must be resolved by order of the probate court.   (F)   If a funeral home handling funeral arrangements for a decedent transfers the decedent's body to another funeral home solely for cremation purposes, the funeral home performing the cremation may, in good faith, rely on a cremation authorization document executed at the funeral home handling the funeral arrangements."     /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SETZLER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 35; Nays 0; Present 1

AYES

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bright
Bryant                    Campbell                  Campsen
Cleary                    Coleman                   Cromer
Davis                     Fair                      Gregory
Grooms                    Jackson                   Knotts
Land                      Leatherman                Leventis
Lourie                    Martin, Larry             Martin, Shane
Massey                    McConnell                 McGill
Nicholson                 O'Dell                    Peeler
Rankin                    Rose                      Scott
Setzler                   Sheheen                   Shoopman
Verdin                    Williams

Total--35
NAYS

Total--0

PRESENT

Malloy

Total--1

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

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 1054 (Word version) -- Senators Rose and Ford: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 63-7-310, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED TO REPORT SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT, SO AS TO EXPAND THE DELINEATED LIST OF PERSONS REQUIRED TO REPORT TO INCLUDE SCHOOL EMPLOYEES, COACHES, CAMP COUNSELORS, ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICERS, FIREFIGHTERS, AND OTHER PERSONS WHOSE DUTIES REQUIRE DIRECT CONTACT OR SUPERVISION OF CHILDREN, TO PROVIDE ANY PERSON MUST REPORT SUSPECTED SEXUAL OR PHYSICAL ABUSE OF A CHILD, TO PROVIDE THAT BOARD MEMBERS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS AND OTHER HEADS OF ORGANIZATIONS, ADMINISTRATORS, AND SUPERVISORS ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT BY A STAFF MEMBER, TO PROVIDE FOR REPORTING TO THE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES AND TO LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES TO ESTABLISH, OPERATE, AND PUBLICIZE A TWENTY-FOUR HOUR, STATEWIDE, TOLL-FREE TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR THE REPORTING OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 63-7-410, RELATING TO THE PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO REPORT SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON MAY NOT BE ADJUDICATED DELINQUENT FOR FAILURE TO REPORT SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT.

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

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD1054.004) , which was adopted:

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

/     SECTION   1.   Section 63-7-310 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 227 of 2010, is further amended to read:

"Section 63-7-310.   (A)   A physician, nurse, dentist, optometrist, medical examiner, or coroner, or an employee of a county medical examiner's or coroner's office, or any other medical, emergency medical services, mental health, or allied health professional, member of the clergy including a Christian Science Practitioner or religious healer, school teacher, counselor, principal, assistant principal, school attendance officer, social or public assistance worker, substance abuse treatment staff, or childcare worker in a childcare center or foster care facility, foster parent, police or law enforcement officer, juvenile justice worker, undertaker, funeral home director or employee of a funeral home, persons responsible for processing films, computer technician, judge, or a volunteer non-attorney guardian ad litem serving on behalf of the South Carolina Guardian Ad Litem Program or on behalf of Richland County CASA must report in accordance with this section when in the person's professional capacity the person has received information which gives the person reason to believe that a child has been or may be abused or neglected as defined in Section 63-7-20.

(B)   A person, other than a minor and other than those individuals who are required to report child abuse or neglect pursuant to subsection (A), who has received information that gives the person reason to believe that a minor has been or may be the victim of a sexual offense as defined by Title 16 must report in accordance with this section, unless otherwise excluded by law or by rules of professional conduct.

(B)(C)   If a person required to report pursuant to subsection (A) and subsection (B) has received information in the person's professional capacity which gives the person reason to believe that a child's physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected by acts or omissions that would be child abuse or neglect if committed by a parent, guardian, or other person responsible for the child's welfare, but the reporter believes that the act or omission was committed by a person other than the parent, guardian, or other person responsible for the child's welfare, the reporter must make a report to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

(C)(D)   Except as provided in subsection (A) and subsection (B), a person, including, but not limited to, a volunteer non-attorney guardian ad litem serving on behalf of the South Carolina Guardian Ad Litem Program or on behalf of Richland County CASA, who has reason to believe that a child's physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected by abuse and neglect may report, and is encouraged to report, in accordance with this section.

(D)(E)   Reports of child abuse or neglect may be made orally by telephone or otherwise to the county department of social services or to a law enforcement agency in the county where the child resides or is found. Reports of sexual abuse made pursuant to subsection (B) must be made to a law enforcement agency in the county where the child resides or where the act occurred."

SECTION   2.   Section 63-7-410 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 63-7-410.     A person required to report a case of child abuse or neglect or a person required to perform any other function under pursuant to this article who knowingly fails to do so, or a person who threatens or attempts to intimidate a witness is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than six months, or both. This section does not apply to those individuals required to report pursuant to Section 63-7-310(B)."

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

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator LARRY MARTIN explained the committee amendment.

The committee amendment was adopted.

Senator MALLOY spoke on the Bill.

The question then was second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 36; Nays 0
AYES

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bright
Bryant                    Campbell                  Campsen
Cleary                    Coleman                   Courson
Cromer                    Davis                     Fair
Gregory                   Jackson                   Knotts
Land                      Leatherman                Leventis
Lourie                    Malloy                    Martin, Larry
Martin, Shane             Massey                    McConnell
McGill                    Nicholson                 O'Dell
Peeler                    Rankin                    Rose
Scott                     Setzler                   Sheheen
Shoopman                  Verdin                    Williams

Total--36

NAYS

Total--0

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

OBJECTION

H. 4475 (Word version) -- Reps. Young, Clyburn, Taylor, Hixon, Frye, Southard, Clemmons and Hardwick: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 47-9-710, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF EQUINE LIABILITY IMMUNITY, SO AS TO INCLUDE TRAIL RIDING IN THE DEFINITION OF "EQUINE ACTIVITY"; AND TO AMEND SECTION 47-9-730, RELATING TO WARNING SIGNS REQUIRED TO BE POSTED BY EQUINE PROFESSIONALS AND EQUINE ACTIVITY SPONSORS, SO AS TO INCLUDE A REQUIREMENT THAT WARNING SIGNS ARE TO BE POSTED AT THE ENTRANCE TO RIDING TRAILS.

Senator MALLOY objected to further consideration of the Bill.

CARRIED OVER

S. 1270 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL, RELATING TO ACCESS OF RESTRICTED INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE STATE'S FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 4197, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Senator LARRY MARTIN explained the Joint Resolution.

On motion of Senator KNOTTS, the Joint Resolution was carried over.

CARRIED OVER

H. 3333 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer, Toole, Bowers, Hayes, Erickson and Brady: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 38-1-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN TITLE 38 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "ADMITTED ASSETS" TO INCLUDE THOSE ON THE MOST RECENT STATUTORY FINANCIAL STATEMENT OF THE INSURER FILED WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 38-13-80; TO AMEND SECTION 38-9-10, RELATING TO CAPITAL AND SURPLUS REQUIRED OF STOCK INSURERS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE MARKETABLE SECURITIES THAT MAY BE REQUIRED BY THE DIRECTOR OF INSURANCE; TO AMEND SECTION 38-9-20, RELATING TO THE SURPLUS REQUIRED OF MUTUAL INSURERS, SO AS TO CHANGE THE MARKETABLE SECURITIES WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED BY THE DIRECTOR OF INSURANCE; TO AMEND SECTION 38-9-210, RELATING TO THE REDUCTION FROM LIABILITY FOR THE REINSURANCE CEDED BY A DOMESTIC INSURER, SO AS TO CHANGE THE SECURITIES LISTED THAT QUALIFY AS SECURITY; TO AMEND SECTION 38-10-40, RELATING TO THE PROTECTED CELL ASSETS OF A PROTECTED CELL, SO AS TO CHANGE A CODE REFERENCE; TO AMEND SECTION 38-33-130, RELATING TO THE SECURITY DEPOSIT OF A HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION SHALL ISSUE A CONVERSION POLICY TO AN ENROLLEE UPON THE TERMINATION OF THE ORGANIZATION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 38-55-80, RELATING TO LOANS TO DIRECTORS OR OFFICERS BY AN INSURER, SO AS TO CHANGE A CODE REFERENCE.

Senator LARRY MARTIN explained the Bill.

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

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

MADE DEBATE INTERRUPTED

H. 3241 (Word version) -- Reps. Owens, Stringer, G.R. Smith, Harrison, Daning, Hamilton, Bingham, Long, Henderson, Atwater, Lucas, Clemmons, Cooper, Horne, Simrill, D.C. Moss, Sandifer, Harrell, Erickson, Norman, Barfield and Loftis: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-40-55 SO AS TO PROVIDE CHARTER SCHOOL POWERS AND DUTIES AND TO ALLOW A SPONSOR TO RETAIN CERTAIN FUNDS FOR OVERSEEING THE CHARTER SCHOOL; BY ADDING SECTION 59-40-175 SO AS TO CREATE THE CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITY REVOLVING LOAN PROGRAM FOR THE CONSTRUCTION, PURCHASE, RENOVATION, AND MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITIES; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PURPOSE OF THE CHARTER SCHOOL ACT, SO AS TO INCLUDE AN ADDITIONAL PURPOSE; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND EXISTING DEFINITIONS AND ADD NEW DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-50, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL POWERS AND DUTIES, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE APPLICATION TO CREATE A SINGLE GENDER CHARTER SCHOOL, REVISE PRIORITY ENROLLMENT LIMITS, PROVIDE FOR THE ELECTION OF A CHARTER SCHOOL BOARD OF DIRECTORS, PROVIDE FOR BOARD MEETING NOTICE REQUIREMENTS, ALLOW A CHARTER SCHOOL TO CONTRACT WITH PROVIDERS FOR STUDENT TRANSPORTATION, AND ALLOW CHARTER SCHOOL STUDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN CERTAIN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-60, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO APPLICATION TO CREATE A CHARTER SCHOOL, SO AS TO CLARIFY WHAT MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE CONTRACT, AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO CREATE A CONTRACT TEMPLATE; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CHARTER SCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE, SO AS TO REVISE ITS MEMBERSHIP AND TO EXTEND THE TIME PERIOD IN WHICH THE COMMITTEE SHALL DETERMINE APPLICATION COMPLIANCE AND THE TIME IN WHICH A LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT SHALL RULE ON THE APPLICATION; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-100, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL CONVERSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS PROVIDING FOR PAPER BALLOTS, TO REVISE PRIORITY ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES FOR A CONVERTED CHARTER SCHOOL, AND TO ALLOW A CONVERTED CHARTER SCHOOL TO RETAIN FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE BEFORE CONVERSION; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-110, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE DURATION OF A CHARTER, SO AS TO ALLOW A SPONSOR TO IMMEDIATELY REVOKE A CHARTER AND CLOSE THE SCHOOL UPON CERTAIN CONDITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-140, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DISTRIBUTION OF RESOURCES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS TO CHARTER SCHOOLS, TO REVISE WHAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL DISTRICT SHALL RECEIVE, TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO FINE SPONSORS THAT FAIL TO DISTRIBUTE CERTAIN FUNDS TO CHARTER SCHOOLS, AND TO REVISE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-190, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LIABILITY OF A GOVERNING BODY OF A CHARTER SCHOOL, SO AS TO PROVIDE IMMUNITY TO A LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR CRIMINAL OR CIVIL LIABILITY REGARDING ACTIVITIES RELATED TO A SPONSORED CHARTER SCHOOL; TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-230, RELATING TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL, SO AS TO REVISE ITS MEMBERSHIP; AND TO AMEND SECTION 59-40-130, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LEAVE TO BE EMPLOYED AT A CHARTER SCHOOL, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A CHARTER SCHOOL IS A COVERED EMPLOYER WITH RESPECT TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS FOR CERTAIN SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES.

Senator LARRY MARTIN moved that the Bill be placed in the status of Interrupted Debate, not to be taken up for consideration prior to Tuesday, March 13, 2012.

There was no objection and the motion was adopted.

The Bill was placed in the status of Interrupted Debate, not to be taken up for consideration prior to Tuesday, March 13, 2012.

MOTION ADOPTED

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

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CONSIDERATION OF THE VETOES.

VETO CARRIED OVER

(R135, H4723 (Word version)) -- Reps. Loftis, Corbin, Allen, Dillard, Hamilton, Henderson, Nanney, G.R. Smith, Stringer, Willis and Bannister: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 848 OF 1954, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE BEREA WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT IN GREENVILLE COUNTY, SO AS TO ADD TWO ADDITIONAL MEMBERS TO THE GOVERNING COMMISSION AND PROVIDE FOR STAGGERING THEIR TERMS.

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

On motion of Senator FAIR, the veto was carried over.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., February 28, 2012

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R.133, H. 4627 by a vote of 111 to 1:

(R133, H4627 (Word version)) -- Reps. Merrill, Stavrinakis, Harrison, King, Knight, Williams, Jefferson, Johnson, Sabb, Munnerlyn, Anderson, G.A. Brown, Allison, Horne, Agnew, Gambrell, McCoy, Ryan, Mack, Gilliard, Sottile, Hardwick, Hearn, Weeks, Simrill, Pope, Delleney, Dillard, Sandifer, Erickson, Herbkersman, Brantley, Crosby, Daning, Brady, Quinn, Spires, Frye, Pitts, Southard, Butler Garrick, Pinson, Tallon, Long, Parker, Hodges, Whitmire, Anthony, Bannister, Putnam, Edge, Allen, Thayer, Funderburk, Lucas, Cobb-Hunter, Howard, Harrell, Bowers, Patrick, Whipper, Bowen, White, Murphy and R.L. Brown: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE AUTHORITY OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL FOR ALL DECISIONS SUBSEQUENT TO 2007 PERTAINING TO THE NAVIGABILITY, DEPTH, DREDGING, WASTEWATER AND SLUDGE DISPOSAL, AND RELATED COLLATERAL ISSUES IN REGARD TO THE USE OF THE SAVANNAH RIVER AS A WATERWAY FOR OCEAN-GOING CONTAINER OR COMMERCE VESSELS, IN PARTICULAR THE APPROVAL BY THE DEPARTMENT OF THE APPLICATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION IN NAVIGABLE WATERS PERMIT FOR DREDGING OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA PORTION OF THE SAVANNAH RIVER, BECAUSE THE AUTHORITY TO ISSUE SUCH A PERMIT HAD BEEN GRANTED TO THE SAVANNAH RIVER MARITIME COMMISSION BY ACT 56 OF 2007 AND THE ACTIVITIES AUTHORIZED BY THIS PERMIT COULD PRESENT IMMINENT AND IRREVERSIBLE PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT RETAINS AUTHORITY OVER OTHER MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE SAVANNAH RIVER.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

VETO OVERRIDDEN

(R133, H4627 (Word version)) -- Reps. Merrill, Stavrinakis, Harrison, King, Knight, Williams, Jefferson, Johnson, Sabb, Munnerlyn, Anderson, G.A. Brown, Allison, Horne, Agnew, Gambrell, McCoy, Ryan, Mack, Gilliard, Sottile, Hardwick, Hearn, Weeks, Simrill, Pope, Delleney, Dillard, Sandifer, Erickson, Herbkersman, Brantley, Crosby, Daning, Brady, Quinn, Spires, Frye, Pitts, Southard, Butler Garrick, Pinson, Tallon, Long, Parker, Hodges, Whitmire, Anthony, Bannister, Putnam, Edge, Allen, Thayer, Funderburk, Lucas, Cobb-Hunter, Howard, Harrell, Bowers, Patrick, Whipper, Bowen, White, Murphy and R.L. Brown: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE AUTHORITY OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL FOR ALL DECISIONS SUBSEQUENT TO 2007 PERTAINING TO THE NAVIGABILITY, DEPTH, DREDGING, WASTEWATER AND SLUDGE DISPOSAL, AND RELATED COLLATERAL ISSUES IN REGARD TO THE USE OF THE SAVANNAH RIVER AS A WATERWAY FOR OCEAN-GOING CONTAINER OR COMMERCE VESSELS, IN PARTICULAR THE APPROVAL BY THE DEPARTMENT OF THE APPLICATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION IN NAVIGABLE WATERS PERMIT FOR DREDGING OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA PORTION OF THE SAVANNAH RIVER, BECAUSE THE AUTHORITY TO ISSUE SUCH A PERMIT HAD BEEN GRANTED TO THE SAVANNAH RIVER MARITIME COMMISSION BY ACT 56 OF 2007 AND THE ACTIVITIES AUTHORIZED BY THIS PERMIT COULD PRESENT IMMINENT AND IRREVERSIBLE PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT RETAINS AUTHORITY OVER OTHER MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE SAVANNAH RIVER.

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

Senator LEVENTIS spoke on the veto.

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:

Ayes 39; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bright
Bryant                    Campbell                  Campsen
Cleary                    Coleman                   Courson
Cromer                    Davis                     Fair
Ford                      Gregory                   Grooms
Jackson                   Knotts                    Land
Leatherman                Leventis                  Lourie
Malloy                    Martin, Larry             Martin, Shane
Massey                    McConnell                 McGill
Nicholson                 O'Dell                    Peeler
Rankin                    Rose                      Ryberg
Scott                     Setzler                   Sheheen
Shoopman                  Verdin                    Williams

Total--39

NAYS

Total--0

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

Statement by Senator HUTTO

Having been out of the Chamber at the time the vote was taken, I would have voted in favor of overriding the veto by the Governor.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senators SHOOPMAN, COURSON, BRYANT, GROOMS, ANDERSON, FAIR, SHANE MARTIN, THOMAS and VERDIN, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. James F. Keasler, Sr. of Greer, S.C. Mr. Keasler was an outstanding citizen and patriot of South Carolina.

ADJOURNMENT

At 12:30 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.

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