South Carolina General Assembly
125th Session, 2023-2024
Journal of the Senate

                                                    NO. 7

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2023

_________

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Thursday, January 18, 2024
(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:

Proverbs 3:5-6

We read in Proverbs: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

Bow in prayer with me, please: Holy God, were we to sit down and compile a list of our state's current concerns and needs, it would surely be a lengthy list. Truly, so many issues and problems cry out to be addressed this term by these leaders. And so we fervently pray, O Lord, that you will provide strength of will and genuine courage for each of these Senators that they might look at the issues straight-on and tackle each one fearlessly and with ardent determination to do what must be done. For no matter how intimidating each task might ever appear to be, in almost all instances they simply cannot be ignored. The people of our State are counting upon these leaders and their aides to do what is right. By Your grace, Lord, inspire and lead these men and women to accomplish great good. So we pray in Your blessed name. Amen.

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

Point of Quorum

At 11:03 A.M., Senator SETZLER made the point that a quorum was not present. It was ascertained that a quorum was not present.

Call of the Senate

Senator SETZLER moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Campsen                   Cash
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Devine                    Garrett                   Goldfinch
Grooms                    Gustafson                 Harpootlian
Hembree                   Hutto                     Jackson
Johnson, Kevin            Johnson, Michael          Kimbrell
Martin                    Massey                    McElveen
McLeod                    Peeler                    Reichenbach
Rice                      Senn                      Setzler
Shealy                    Stephens                  Talley
Tedder                    Turner                    Verdin
Williams                  Young

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR

The following appointment was transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:

Statewide Appointment

Initial Appointment, Juvenile Parole Board, with the term to commence June 30, 2023, and to expire June 30, 2027
At-Large, Public:
Tammy Johns, 227 Lominack Road, Prosperity, SC 29127-9140 VICE Suzanne Prosser

Referred to the Committee on Corrections and Penology.

REGULATION RECEIVED

The following was received and referred to the appropriate committee for consideration:
Document No. 5263
Agency: Clemson University
Chapter: 27
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 46-13-30
SUBJECT: Pesticide
Received by President of the Senate January 18, 2024
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 305 (Word version)     Sen. Loftis
S. 967 (Word version)     Sen. Shealy

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 973 (Word version) -- Senators Stephens, K. Johnson and McElveen: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE GABRIELLE "GABBY" MILLER FOR HER ACHIEVEMENTS AS STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT OF SUMTER HIGH SCHOOL.
sr-0550km-vc24.docx

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 974 (Word version) -- Senator Bennett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 59-104-20, 59-149-10, AND 59-150-370, ALL RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION" FOR PURPOSES OF THE PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIPS, THE LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS, AND THE SC HOPE SCHOLARSHIPS, RESPECTIVELY, SO AS TO ADD AN INSTITUTION ACCREDITED BY THE ACCREDITING COMMISSION OF CAREER SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES TO THE DEFINITION.
lc-0468sa24.docx

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

S. 975 (Word version) -- Senators Martin, Corbin and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-17-780 SO AS TO PROHIBIT BUSINESSES, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, COLLEGES, SCHOOLS, AND EMPLOYERS FROM MANDATING THAT EMPLOYEES, CONTRACTORS, STUDENTS, PATRONS, CUSTOMERS, CLIENTS, OR GUESTS MUST RECEIVE A NOVEL VACCINE OR GENE THERAPY; BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-55 SO AS TO PROHIBIT EMPLOYERS FROM TAKING ANY ADVERSE PRE-EMPLOYMENT OR EMPLOYMENT ACTION AGAINST AN INDIVIDUAL WHO DECLINES TO RECEIVE A VACCINE OR GENE THERAPY; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-86, RELATING TO FACILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PHARMACIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PHARMACIST MAY REFUSE TO FILL A PRESCRIPTION DUE TO RELIGIOUS, MORAL, OR ETHICAL REASONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-1-100, RELATING TO ASSISTANCE FROM PEACE AND HEALTH OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DIRECTOR MAY NOT REQUEST ASSISTANCE IN ENFORCING ORDERS PURSUANT TO THIS CHAPTER; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-130, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR EMERGENCY HEALTH POWERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-330, RELATING TO THE PURCHASE AND DISTRIBUTION OF PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS OR MEDICAL SUPPLIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DHEC MAY PURCHASE AND DISTRIBUTE APPROVED PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS OR MEDICAL SUPPLIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-500, RELATING TO CONTROL AND TREATMENT OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DHEC MUST USE EVERY AVAILABLE MEANS TO PREVENT THE TRANSMISSION OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE FOR WHICH THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY HAS BEEN CALLED; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-510, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS OR TESTS AND ISOLATION OR QUARANTINE OF PERSONS REFUSING EXAMINATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TESTS MUST BE FDA APPROVED FOR ACCURATE DETECTION OF THE BIOLOGICAL AGENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-520, RELATING TO VACCINATIONS AND TREATMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DHEC MAY NOT ISOLATE AN INDIVIDUAL TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF A POSSIBLY CONTAGIOUS DISEASE, BUT ONLY A DISEASE KNOWN TO BE CONTAGIOUS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A VACCINE MUST NOT BE A GENE THERAPY; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-530, RELATING TO ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE OF INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS AND PENALTY FOR NONCOMPLIANCE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DHEC MAY ISOLATE OR QUARANTINE AN INDIVIDUAL OR GROUPS OF INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH OR EXPOSED TO THE CONTAGIOUS DISEASE FOR WHICH THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY WAS DECLARED; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-540, RELATING TO ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE PROCEDURES, SO AS TO REMOVE ISOLATION PARAMETERS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-570, RELATING TO EMERGENCY POWERS REGARDING LICENSING OF HEALTH PERSONNEL, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT IN-STATE HEALTH PROVIDERS MUST ASSIST IN VACCINATIONS, TREATMENTS, AND EXAMINATIONS, AND TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT ANY EMERGENCY ASSISTANT MEDICAL EXAMINER OR CORONER APPOINTED PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION IS IMMUNE FROM CIVIL LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THEIR SERVICES.
sr-0478km24.docx

Senator MARTIN spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 976 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell and Goldfinch: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-45 SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL 911 TELECOMMUNICATORS THAT PROVIDE DISPATCH FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL CONDITIONS TO BE TRAINED IN HIGH-QUALITY TELECOMMUNICATOR CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (T-CPR).
lc-0477cm24.docx

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

S. 977 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SMART HEART ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-165 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A CARDIAC EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN IN EACH PUBLIC SCHOOL; BY ADDING SECTION 59-17-170 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ATHLETICS EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN IN EACH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOL; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-17-155, RELATING TO THE AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR PROGRAM IN HIGH SCHOOLS, SO AS TO PROVIDE EACH PUBLIC SCHOOL SHALL ENSURE THE PRESENCE OF AN AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR ONSITE AND WITHIN CERTAIN PROXIMITY OF SCHOOL ATHLETIC VENUES, TO PROVIDE RELATED TESTING, MAINTENANCE, AND PERSONNEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS.
lc-0572wab24.docx

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

S. 978 (Word version) -- Senator McLeod: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO INVITE ALL SOUTH CAROLINIANS TO PARTICIPATE IN "NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY" ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2024, DURING AMERICAN HEART MONTH AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL CITIZENS OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO JOIN TOGETHER IN REAFFIRMING OUR COMMITMENT TO FIGHTING CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN WOMEN THROUGHOUT THIS GREAT STATE.
lc-0366vr-rm24.docx

The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 4624 (Word version) -- Reps. Hiott, G. M. Smith, McCravy, Davis, Vaughan, Trantham, Pope, Chapman, Taylor, Oremus, Hartnett, Leber, Long, Nutt, Haddon, Burns, Chumley, Murphy, Mitchell, Brewer, Robbins, Gatch, West, Gilliam, Cromer, Kilmartin, O'Neal, Yow, S. Jones, Landing, Ballentine, Sandifer, Crawford, Guest, Willis, Ligon, Forrest, Pace, W. Newton, Bradley, Erickson, Gibson, Blackwell and M. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 42 TO TITLE 44 SO AS TO DEFINE GENDER, SEX, AND OTHER TERMS, TO PROHIBIT THE PROVISION OF GENDER TRANSITION PROCEDURES TO A PERSON UNDER EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE, TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS, TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF PUBLIC FUNDS FOR GENDER TRANSITION PROCEDURES, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-32-36 SO AS TO PROHIBIT PUBLIC SCHOOL STAFF AND OFFICIALS FROM WITHHOLDING KNOWLEDGE OF A MINOR'S PERCEPTION OF THEIR GENDER FROM THE MINOR'S PARENTS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
lc-0490wab24.docx

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

H. 4849 (Word version) -- Reps. Calhoon, Erickson and Bradley: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DELARE JULY 2024 AS JUVENILE ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH AND URGE CITIZENS TO BE MINDFUL OF THE CONDITION AND ITS EFFECT ON SOUTH CAROLINA'S YOUTH.
lc-0328dg-bl24.docx

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

H. 4859 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Mitchell, Neese and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DEPUTY THOMAS HUMANIK OF THE LANCASTER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL COURAGE IN THE FACE OF DANGER WHILE IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM UPON RECEIVING THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD.
lc-0356vr-gm24.docx

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

H. 4860 (Word version) -- Reps. Bustos, Brewer, Gatch, Gilliard, Hartnett, Hewitt, Landing, Leber, J. Moore, Pendarvis, Stavrinakis, Wetmore, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Blackwell, Bradley, Brittain, Burns, Calhoon, Carter, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Connell, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Elliott, Erickson, Felder, Forrest, Gagnon, Garvin, Gibson, Gilliam, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Henegan, Herbkersman, Hiott, Hixon, Hosey, Howard, Hyde, Jefferson, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, S. Jones, W. Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Magnuson, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, T. Moore, A. M. Morgan, T. A. Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Nutt, O'Neal, Oremus, Ott, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sandifer, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Taylor, Thayer, Thigpen, Trantham, Vaughan, Weeks, West, Wheeler, White, Whitmire, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DEPUTY EVAN CUBBAGE AND DEPUTY ALEXANDER HODGE OF THE CHARLESTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON BEING AWARDED THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION MEDAL OF VALOR.
lc-0306ph-rm24.docx

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

H. 4861 (Word version) -- Rep. Hiott: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE VITAL ROLE OF FIRST RESPONDERS THROUGHOUT OUR STATE AND TO PROCLAIM SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2024, AS "SOUTH CAROLINA FIRST RESPONDER PRAYER AND APPRECIATION DAY" AND THE FIRST WEEK IN AUGUST 2024 AS "SOUTH CAROLINA FIRST RESPONDER PRAYER AND APPRECIATION WEEK" IN SOUTH CAROLINA, BRINGING AWARENESS, PRAYER, AND APPRECIATION FOR THE MEN AND WOMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES WHO STAND IN THE GAP EVERY DAY PROVIDING CIVILITY AND SAFETY TO OUR COMMUNITIES.
lc-0392wab-gm24.docx

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

H. 4862 (Word version) -- Reps. Lawson, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Blackwell, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Carter, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, Connell, B. J. Cox, B. L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Elliott, Erickson, Felder, Forrest, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Henegan, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Hosey, Howard, Hyde, Jefferson, J. E. Johnson, J. L. Johnson, S. Jones, W. Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Leber, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Magnuson, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, McGinnis, Mitchell, J. Moore, T. Moore, A. M. Morgan, T. A. Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Nutt, O'Neal, Oremus, Ott, Pace, Pedalino, Pendarvis, Pope, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sandifer, Schuessler, Sessions, G. M. Smith, M. M. Smith, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Thayer, Thigpen, Trantham, Vaughan, Weeks, West, Wetmore, Wheeler, White, Whitmire, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR JAMES DENNIS GARDNER, FORMER CHIEF OF THE MACEDONIA FIRE DEPARTMENT, UPON THE RECENT OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AS CHIEF AFTER DECADES OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE.
lc-0482cm-gt24.docx

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

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEE

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

H. 3592 (Word version) -- Reps. Hyde and Carter: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE PHARMACY PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-86, RELATING TO COMPOUNDING OF MEDICATIONS BY PHARMACIES , SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS FOR COMPOUNDING PHARMACIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-87, RELATING TO NUCLEAR/RADIOLOGIC PHARMACY PRACTICES, SO AS TO REMOVE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING NUCLEAR PHARMACY FACILITIES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-88, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR PREPARATION, LABELING, AND DISTRIBUTION OF STERILE PRODUCTS BY PHARMACIES, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN STANDARDS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

H. 4159 (Word version) -- Reps. Herbkersman, Davis, M.M. Smith, Erickson, W. Newton, Bradley, Ballentine, Hewitt and Blackwell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA TELEHEALTH AND TELEMEDICINE MODERNIZATION ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 42 TO TITLE 40 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS AND PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN REGULATED HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS WHO PROVIDE HEALTH CARE BY MEANS OF TELEHEALTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE MEDICAL PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO DEFINE "TELEHEALTH"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-37, RELATING TO THE PRACTICE OF TELEMEDICINE, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PRACTICE OF TELEMEDICINE AND TO INCLUDE PROVISIONS CONCERNING TELEHEALTH.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Appointments Reported

Senator VERDIN from the Committee on Medical Affairs submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Medical Examiners, with the term to commence December 31, 2022, and to expire December 31, 2026
At-Large Doctor:
Theresa Mills-Floyd, 47 Love Valley Court, Chapin, SC 29036-8591

Received as information.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Board of Pharmacy, with the term to commence June 30, 2023, and to expire June 30, 2029
1st Congressional District:
Dottie Farfone, 2690 Cotton Gin Road, Johns Island, SC 29455-7412 VICE Lauren B. Thomas

Received as information.

HOUSE CONCURRENCES

S. 961 (Word version) -- Senators Shealy, Cromer, Harpootlian, Massey and Setzler: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR MASTER DEPUTY JACOB ALAN SMITH OF THE LEXINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE AND TO CONGRATULATE HIM ON BEING AWARDED THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION MEDAL OF VALOR.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 963 (Word version) -- Senators Garrett and Massey: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR SERGEANT JOHN COKER AND DEPUTY HEATHER CAMPBELL OF THE MCCORMICK COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL COURAGE IN THE FACE OF DANGER WHILE IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM UPON RECEIVING THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION 2023 MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 964 (Word version) -- Senator Peeler: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DEPUTY TYLER ATKINS, SERGEANT SARDARIUS HENDERSON, AND DEPUTY JOHN RODGERS OF THE CHEROKEE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON BEING AWARDED THE SOUTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION MEDAL OF VALOR.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered sent to the House of Representatives:

S. 916 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1(C) OF ACT 485 OF 1998, RELATED TO THE NEWBERRY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL PERSONS DESIRING TO QUALIFY AS A CANDIDATE FOR THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF INTENTION OF CANDIDACY WITH THE COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION INSTEAD OF FILING A PETITION.

On motion of Senator CROMER.

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.

H. 3782 (Word version) -- Reps. West, Yow, Jefferson, Ligon, Nutt, Anderson, Hardee, Bannister, Thayer, Blackwell and Oremus: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-12-300, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "VIDEO SERVICE".

CARRIED OVER

H. 3518 (Word version) -- Reps. Felder and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-395, RELATING TO THE DRIVER'S LICENSE REINSTATEMENT FEE PAYMENT PROGRAM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE DRIVERS' LICENSES ISSUED UNDER THIS PROGRAM ARE VALID FOR AN ADDITIONAL SIX MONTHS, TO REVISE THE AMOUNT OF REINSTATEMENT FEES OWED BY PERSONS TO BECOME ELIGIBLE TO OBTAIN THESE DRIVERS' LICENSES, TO REVISE THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE FEES COLLECTED, TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES MAY PROVIDE PERSONS IN THE PROGRAM A FEE SCHEDULE OF THE AMOUNTS OWED AND THE ABILITY TO MAKE ONLINE PAYMENTS, TO REVISE THE TYPES OF DRIVERS' LICENSE SUSPENSIONS THAT ARE COVERED BY THIS SECTION, AND TO REVISE THE FREQUENCY THAT PERSONS MAY PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM AND THE CONDITIONS FOR FUTURE PARTICIPATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-396, RELATING TO THE DRIVER'S LICENSE SUSPENSION AMNESTY PERIOD, SO AS TO LIMIT THE TYPES OF QUALIFYING SUSPENSIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-10-240, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT UPON LOSS OF INSURANCE, NEW INSURANCE MUST BE OBTAINED OR PERSONS MUST SURRENDER THEIR REGISTRATION AND PLATES, WRITTEN NOTICE BY INSURERS, APPEAL OF SUSPENSIONS, ENFORCEMENT, AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO REVISE THE PERIOD OF TIME VEHICLE OWNERS MUST SURRENDER MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE PLATES AND REGISTRATION CERTIFICATES FOR CERTAIN UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLES, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT GIVES THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES DISCRETION TO AUTHORIZE INSURERS TO UTILIZE ALTERNATE METHODS OF PROVIDING CERTAIN NOTICES TO THE DEPARTMENT, TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT ALLOWS CERTAIN PERSONS TO APPEAL CERTAIN SUSPENSIONS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE FOR FAILURE TO MEET THE STATE'S FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS IN ERROR, AND TO ALLOW THESE PERSONS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN DOCUMENTS TO SHOW THE SUSPENSION WAS ISSUED IN ERROR; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-10-245, RELATING TO PER DIEM FINES FOR LAPSE IN REQUIRED COVERAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE FINES CONTAINED IN THE SECTION MAY NOT EXCEED TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS PER VEHICLE FOR A FIRST OFFENSE; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 5 OF CHAPTER 10, TITLE 56, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE UNINSURED MOTORIST FUND, SO AS TO REVISE THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ARTICLE TO REGULATE THE OPERATION OF UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLES, TO DELETE PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT AND COLLECTION OF UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLE FEES, TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES, TO REVISE THE AMOUNT OF THE MOTOR VEHICLE REINSTATEMENT FEE AND PROVIDE IT SHALL BE INCREASED ANNUALLY, TO PROVIDE SUSPENDED LICENSES, REGISTRATION CERTIFICATES, LICENSE PLATES, AND DECALS MAY BE RETURNED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES BY ELECTRONIC MEANS OR IN PERSON, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISIONS THAT REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO COLLECT STATISTICS REGARDING VARIOUS MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION, INSURANCE, AND UNINSURED MOTORIST FUND ISSUES.

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

CARRIED OVER

H. 4116 (Word version) -- Reps. Sandifer, M.M. Smith and King: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-19-295 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE DIVIDING OF FEES OR OTHER COMPENSATION CHARGED OR RECEIVED BY LICENSEES OF THE BOARD OF FUNERAL SERVICES WITH ANOTHER PERSON, PARTNERSHIP, CORPORATION, ASSOCIATION, OR LEGAL ENTITY FOR THE DELIVERY OR PERFORMANCE OF FUNERAL SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-7-100, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF PROVISIONS REGULATING PRENEED FUNERAL CONTRACTS, SO AS TO INCREASE FINE RANGES AND PERMANENTLY BAR PERSONS CONVICTED OF A FELONY FROM CONDUCTING PRENEED CONTRACT SALES; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-7-110, RELATING TO THE INVESTIGATION OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST UNLICENSED PRENEED CONTRACT SALES PROVIDERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE COMPLAINTS TO WHICH THE DEPARTMENT SHALL RESPOND MAY BE WRITTEN OR ORAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-8-360, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE SAFE CREMATION ACT, SO AS TO INCREASE MONETARY FINES AND REQUIRE IMMEDIATE REPORTING OF VIOLATIONS TO THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 32-8-385, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS THAT CREMATORIES EMPLOY CERTAIN TRAINED STAFF TO PERFORM CREMATIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL CREMATIONS BE PERFORMED BY THESE TRAINED STAFF MEMBERS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF EMBALMERS AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS, SO AS TO REVISE CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-30, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF LICENSURE TO PRACTICE FUNERAL SERVICES, SO AS TO PROVIDE CONDUCT CONSTITUTING THE PRACTICE OF FUNERAL SERVICES INCLUDES PARTIES WHO EXERCISE ANY CONTROL OR AUTHORITY OVER A FUNERAL ESTABLISHMENT OR ITS EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, OR REPRESENTATIVES, AND TO PROHIBIT CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, OR INDIVIDUALS IN WHOSE NAME APPEARS THE NAME OF A PERSON WITH A REVOKED OR LAPSED LICENSE FROM HAVING A LICENSE TO OPERATE A FUNERAL HOME; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-70, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE BOARD MEMBERS, COMMITTEES, OR EMPLOYEES MAY NOT BE LIABLE FOR ACTS PERFORMED IN THE COURSE OF THEIR OFFICIAL DUTIES IN THE ABSENCE OF MALICE SHOWN AND PROVEN IN A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-80, RELATING TO INSPECTORS EMPLOYED BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO INSTEAD REQUIRE THE BOARD TO EMPLOY AT LEAST TWO INVESTIGATORS WHO MAY BE LICENSED EMBALMERS AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS WITH CERTAIN EXPERIENCE BUT WHO HAVE NOT BEEN DISCIPLINED; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-110, RELATING TO CONDUCT CONSTITUTING UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT BY A LICENSEE OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO MAKE GRAMMATICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-115, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO INCLUDE UNLICENSED PERSONS WITH THIS JURISDICTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-200, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF PROVISIONS PROHIBITING THE PRACTICE OF FUNERAL SERVICES WITHOUT A LICENSE OR USING FALSE INFORMATION TO OBTAIN SUCH LICENSURE, SO AS TO INCREASE MONETARY FINES, AND TO SUBJECT PERSONS WHO AID AND ABET UNLICENSED PERSONS OR ENTITIES IN ENGAGING IN THE PRACTICE OF FUNERAL SERVICE WITHOUT LICENSURE TO THESE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-250, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAMS, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN COURSEWORK IN ETHICS, TO REQUIRE FOUR HOURS OF TOTAL ANNUAL COURSEWORK, TO REQUIRE A CERTAIN PORTION OF THIS COURSEWORK TO BE IN ETHICS, AND TO REQUIRE A CERTAIN PORTION OF THIS COURSEWORK BE COMPLETED IN PERSON; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-19-290, RELATING TO THE FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITIES OF FUNERAL ESTABLISHMENTS WITH RESPECT TO PAYMENTS RECEIVED FOR FUNERAL MERCHANDISE BEING PURCHASED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THESE PAYMENTS MUST BE KEPT IN A TRUST ACCOUNT UNTIL THE MERCHANDISE IS DELIVERED FOR ITS INTENDED USE OR IS DELIVERED INTO THE PHYSICAL POSSESSION OF THE PURCHASER.

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 SPECIAL ORDER

S. 305 (Word version) -- Senators Young, M. Johnson, Kimbrell, Turner, Fanning, Climer, Stephens, Rankin and Loftis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-25-60 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL'S PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE MAY BE AWARDED ON AN INITIAL TEACHING CERTIFICATE IF THE PRIOR EXPERIENCE IS IN OR RELATED TO THE CONTENT FIELD OF THE CERTIFICATE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT EXISTING CERTIFICATE HOLDERS MAY ALSO RECEIVE THE SAME CREDIT FOR PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE.

Senator MASSEY moved that the Bill be made a Special Order.

The Bill was made a Special Order.

MOTION ADOPTED

At 11:24 A.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator HEMBREE rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

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

CARRIED OVER

S. 557 (Word version) -- Senators M. Johnson, Peeler, Kimbrell, Adams, Rice, Rankin, Reichenbach, Young, Loftis, Climer, Garrett, Alexander and Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3477, RELATING TO THE APPRENTICE INCOME TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF THE CREDIT AND THE NUMBER OF YEARS IN WHICH IT MAY BE CLAIMED.

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

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE SPECIAL ORDERS.

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

S. 882 (Word version) -- Senators M. Johnson, Kimbrell, Gustafson, Climer, Garrett, Loftis, Adams and Cash: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 63-5-380 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PARENT OR THE LEGAL GUARDIAN OF A MINOR MUST BE NOTIFIED WHEN A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL PRESCRIBES MEDICATION TO THE MINOR, TO PROVIDE THAT A PHARMACIST CANNOT FILL A PRESCRIPTION FOR A MINOR WITHOUT THE MINOR'S PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN CONSENTING, TO PROVIDE THAT A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN CANNOT BE PROHIBITED FROM VIEWING HIS MINOR'S PRESCRIPTION HISTORY, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THESE PROVISIONS DO NOT APPLY TO AN EMANCIPATED MINOR OR A MARRIED MINOR.

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

The Bill was read the third time, passed and ordered sent to the House of Representatives with amendments.

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Oscar Macon Fuller of Gaffney, S.C. Oscar was a graduate of Cornell University with a bachelors degree in civil engineering. He served four years in the U.S. Navy during World War II where he retired as Commander in the Civil Engineering Corp. He worked for Gaffney Board of Public Works, managed Magnolia Finishing and worked for the Spartanburg Research Center for Milliken. Oscar served First Baptist Church in many capacities and served in numerous civic organizations including the Gaffney and Union Chambers of Commerce, the Boys and Girls Club and United Way to mention a few. He was instrumental in organizing Habitat for Humanity of Cherokee County and founded KNOW2 in 2010. Oscar was a loving father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.

and

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator McELVEEN, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Art Baker of Sumter, S.C. Art attended Presbyterian College and served in the U.S. Army from 1952 -1954. He served as head football coach at several high schools around the State. He also worked at Clemson University, The Citadel and other colleges around the country. Art became the associate athletic director of the Gamecock Club at the University of South Carolina. He received the Order of the Palmetto and was a member of the South Carolina Athletic and Football Hall of Fame. Art was very involved in his church and enjoyed playing tennis and reading. Art was a loving father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.

and

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Ms. Helen Ruth Hendrix Creech Cartee of Spartanburg, S.C. Helen was a math teacher at Dorman High School and Spartanburg Technical College before becoming an assistant principal at Dorman High. She later became the founding director of the University School for Spartanburg County. Helen enjoyed genealogy, knitting, antiquing, traveling and trips to the beach with her family. Helen was a loving wife, devoted mother and doting grandmother who will be dearly missed.

ADJOURNMENT

At 11:31 A.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, 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 Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 9:55 A.M.