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

                                                    NO. 54

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2023

_________

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2024

Wednesday, April 10, 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 ACTING PRESIDENT, Senator McLEOD. (This is a Statewide Session day established under the provisions of Senate Rule 1B. Members not having scheduled committee or subcommittee meetings may be in their home districts without effect on their session attendance record.)

REGULATION WITHDRAWN

The following was received:
Document No. 5227
Agency: Department of Motor Vehicles
Chapter: 90
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 56-3-10 et seq.
SUBJECT: License Plates
Received by President of the Senate January 9, 2024
Referred to Transportation Committee
Legislative Review Expiration: Permanently Withdrawn
Permanently Withdrawn April 10, 2024

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 1247 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE JUDGE GERALD T. WHITLEY, JR. UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1248 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR CURRENT TRANSITIONS FOR THEIR RECYCLING EFFORTS AND THEIR EDUCATIONAL SERVICES TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1249 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE NORTH MYRTLE BEACH WOMEN'S CLUB UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND NORTH MYRTLE BEACH WOMEN'S CLUB FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE NORTH STRAND COMMUNITY AND THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1250 (Word version) -- Senators McLeod, Shealy, Matthews, Senn, Gustafson and Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE COACH DAWN STALEY FOR LEADING THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM TO WIN THE 2024 NCAA CHAMPIONSHIP AND TO HONOR HER FOR HER LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND EXCELLENCE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 1251 (Word version) -- Senators Malloy, McLeod, Shealy, Matthews, Senn, Gustafson and Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING THE 2024 NCAA CHAMPIONSHIP.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

H. 3180 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford and Kilmartin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-41-30, RELATING TO PROPERTY EXEMPT FROM ATTACHMENT, LEVY, AND SALE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A DEBTOR'S INTEREST IN REAL PROPERTY USED AS A PRIMARY RESIDENCE MAY NOT BE SOLD IF THE ACTION WAS INSTITUTED BY A HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT UNPAID DUES, FEES, OR FINES; BY AMENDING SECTION 27-30-130, RELATING TO THE ENFORCEABILITY OF A HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION'S GOVERNING DOCUMENTS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE ENFORCEABILITY OF A PROVISION GRANTING A HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION THE AUTHORITY TO FORECLOSE ON PROPERTY; AND BY ADDING SECTION 29-3-810 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A FORECLOSURE ACTION NOT AUTHORIZED BY STATUTE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 4187 (Word version) -- Reps. J. E. Johnson, W. Newton, Robbins, Haddon, Mitchell, Yow, Chapman, Gagnon, Ligon, O'Neal, B. Newton, Sessions, Felder, Blackwell, Oremus and Long: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-13-135, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF RETAIL THEFT AND ASSOCIATED PENALTIES, SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO REVISE THE PREVIOUS OFFENSE OF RETAIL THEFT TO CREATE THE OFFENSES OF FELONY ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME AND FELONY ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME OF AN AGGRAVATED NATURE, AND TO PROVIDE GRADUATED PENALTIES FOR THE OFFENSES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 4248 (Word version) -- Reps. Rose and Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-50, RELATING TO THE SALE OF BEER, ALE, PORTER, OR WINE TO UNDERAGED PERSONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A CONDITIONAL DISCHARGE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-4080, RELATING TO THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS TO AN UNDERAGED PERSON, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A CONDITIONAL DISCHARGE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 4561 (Word version) -- Reps. Wetmore, Dillard, Collins, Erickson, B. Newton, Schuessler, J. L. Johnson, Pope, Clyburn, Henegan, Pendarvis, Caskey, Bauer, Rivers, Gilliard, Henderson-Myers, Williams, Jefferson and Spann-Wilder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1348, RELATING TO USE OF CAMPAIGN FUNDS FOR PERSONAL EXPENSES, SO AS TO ALLOW A CANDIDATE OR PUBLIC OFFICIAL TO USE CAMPAIGN FUNDS FOR DEPENDENT CARE OF AN IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBER IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES AND TO DEFINE "DEPENDENT CARE".
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 4622 (Word version) -- Reps. Sessions, J. L. Johnson, Pope, Guffey, Mitchell, King and Hart: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-327 SO AS TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS PERTAINING TO ITEMIZED PATIENT BILLING FOR HEALTH CARE SERVICES AND SUPPLIES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 4843 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey, Brittain, Guest, J. E. Johnson, Sandifer and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 48-39-148 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE BUSINESSES WITH A DECK, DOCK, OR OTHER STRUCTURE LOCATED IN A CRITICAL AREA TO USE THE STRUCTURE FOR PURPOSES DIRECTLY RELATED TO OPERATION OF THE BUSINESS WITH LOCAL ZONING APPROVAL.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

H. 5144 (Word version) -- Reps. B. J. Cox, Elliott, Wooten and Caskey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-5-105 SO AS TO CREATE THE SCHOOL MAPPING DATA PROGRAM WITHIN THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING EFFICIENT EMERGENCY RESPONSES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS BY PUBLIC SAFETY AGENCIES, TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROGRAM AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION BY THE DEPARTMENT, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

H. 5179 (Word version) -- Reps. T. Moore and Hyde: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO NAME THE CONVERSE SCHOOL BUS MAINTENANCE SHOP IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY THE "DAVID T. BREWINGTON SCHOOL BUS MAINTENANCE CENTER", AND TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO INSTALL APPROPRIATE SIGNAGE CONTAINING THE WORDS "DAVID T. BREWINGTON SCHOOL BUS MAINTENANCE CENTER" AS THE DEPARTMENT CONSIDERS ADVISABLE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

H. 5230 (Word version) -- Rep. Wooten: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-8-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO THE RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR JUDGES AND SOLICITORS, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THIS STATE IN THE DEFINITION OF "SOLICITOR" AND TO MAKE THE NECESSARY PROVISIONS FOR THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE SYSTEM; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 9-8-40, RELATING TO MEMBERSHIP IN THE SYSTEM, SO AS TO ALLOW THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SERVING ON JULY 1, 2024, TO ELECT TO BECOME A MEMBER.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

H. 5235 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister and Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 43-7-465, RELATING TO INSURERS PROVIDING COVERAGE TO PERSONS RECEIVING MEDICAID, SO AS TO COMPORT WITH THE FEDERAL CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT OF 2022.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 5236 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister and Herbkersman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-6-50, RELATING TO RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES OR A SUCCESSOR AGENCY, SO AS TO MAKE CERTAIN CHANGES CONCERNING MEDICAID CLAIMS PROCESSING CONTRACTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

H. 5314 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon and Burns: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 25 (WHITE HORSE ROAD) AND SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 183 (SALUDA DAM ROAD) IN THE GREENVILLE COUNTY TOWN OF BEREA "HAROLD M. BATSON, JR. MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

H. 5323 (Word version) -- Reps. Yow, Henegan, Mitchell and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 9/UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 601 FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH STATE ROAD S-13-40 (HIGH POINT CHURCH ROAD) TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH STATE ROAD S-13-555 (ARANT STREET) IN CHESTERFIELD COUNTY "SSGT. JASON C. HICKS MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

H. 5356 (Word version) -- Rep. Gilliam: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 171 OF 1976, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO FISCAL MATTERS AND THE IMPOSITION OF SCHOOL TAXES FOR LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS FIFTY-FIVE AND FIFTY-SIX, SO AS TO ELIMINATE AN EQUALIZATION FORMULA AND PROVIDE EACH DISTRICT WITH FISCAL AUTONOMY; AND TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH THE EQUALIZATION FORMULA APPLIES TO PREVIOUS TAX YEARS.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

H. 5364 (Word version) -- Rep. Taylor: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE THE MONTH OF APRIL 2024 AS "DISTRACTED DRIVER AWARENESS MONTH" THROUGHOUT OUR STATE AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL SOUTH CAROLINA CITIZENS TO PRACTICE SAFE DRIVING BEHAVIORS AND PLEDGE TO DRIVE DISTRACTION FREE.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 3865 (Word version) -- Reps. Hiott, Collins, Rutherford, Carter and Robbins: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-5-130, RELATING TO CORONER QUALIFICATIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE LICENSED PARAMEDICS WITH AT LEAST THREE YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AS ONE OF THE ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS A CORONER MUST HAVE.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 4042 (Word version) -- Reps. Bernstein, Gilliard, Wheeler, Wetmore, King, Howard, Henegan, Stavrinakis, Bauer, Rutherford, W. Newton, Jordan, Pope, Bannister, J.E. Johnson, Brittain, Elliott and Jefferson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-1710 SO AS TO PROVIDE A FRAMEWORK IN WHICH ANTISEMITISM IS CONSIDERED REGARDING ALL LAWS PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATORY ACTS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

H. 5118 (Word version) -- Reps. G.M. Smith, West, Davis, Hager, Hewitt, Kirby, Long, M.M. Smith, B. Newton, Pendarvis, Sandifer, Hiott, Landing, Crawford, Brittain, Lawson, Williams, Whitmire, Jefferson, Bustos, Hartnett, Carter, Blackwell, Neese, W. Newton, Bradley, Erickson, Murphy, Brewer, Yow, Mitchell, Connell, Jordan, Thayer, Elliott, Wooten, Pedalino, Bailey, T. Moore, McGinnis, Gatch, Ligon, Gagnon, Hardee, B.L. Cox, Chapman, Leber, Anderson, Bannister, Calhoon, Felder, Hixon, Lowe, Taylor, Thigpen, Willis and Pope: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA TEN-YEAR ENERGY TRANSFORMATION ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-20, RELATING TO THE MEMBERSHIP, ELECTION, AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION, SO AS TO CHANGE THE NUMBER OF COMMISSIONERS FROM SEVEN TO THREE TO BE ELECTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM THE STATE AT LARGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-140, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION'S POWERS TO REGULATE PUBLIC UTILITIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CONSIDERATIONS AND STATE POLICY FOR THE COMMISSION'S DECISION-MAKING PROCESS, TO ESTABLISH A SCHEDULE FOR CERTAIN TESTIMONY AND DISCOVERY IN CONTESTED PROCEEDINGS, TO PERMIT ELECTRICAL UTILITY CUSTOMERS TO ADDRESS THE COMMISSION AS PUBLIC WITNESSES, AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR AN INDEPENDENT THIRD PARTY CONSULTANT HIRED BY THE COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-250, RELATING TO SERVICE OF ORDERS AND DECISIONS ON PARTIES, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-4-10, RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF AND ITS REPRESENTATION OF PUBLIC INTEREST BEFORE THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH ITS CONSIDERATIONS FOR PUBLIC INTEREST; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-150 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO PREPARE A COMPREHENSIVE STATE ENERGY ASSESSMENT AND ACTION PLAN AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS PLAN; BY ADDING CHAPTER 38 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY POLICY INSTITUTE; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-195 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE DOMINION ENERGY, THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY, DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, AND DUKE ENERGY PROGRESS TO EVALUATE CERTAIN ELECTRICAL GENERATION FACILITIES AND PROVIDE FOR CONSIDERATIONS RELATED TO THESE FACILITIES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-205 SO AS TO PERMIT THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY TO JOINTLY OWN ELECTRICAL GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION FACILITIES WITH INVESTOR-OWNED ELECTRIC UTILITIES, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR JOINT OWNERSHIP; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-27-650, RELATING TO REASSIGNMENT OF ELECTRIC SUPPLIERS' SERVICE AREAS, SO AS TO PERMIT THE COMMISSION TO APPROVE A REQUEST FOR ANY ELECTRIC SUPPLIER TO SERVE ANY TRANSFORMATIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT CUSTOMER UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 9 OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 13, RELATING TO THE GOVERNOR'S NUCLEAR ADVISORY COUNCIL, SO AS TO AS ESTABLISH THE COUNCIL IN THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS DUTIES AND MEMBERSHIP, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE COUNCIL'S DIRECTOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 37-6-604, RELATING TO THE CONSUMER ADVOCATE'S INTERVENTION ON MATTERS FILED AT THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO TRANSFER THESE DUTIES TO THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-196 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE CONSIDERATION OF DEPLOYMENT OF NUCLEAR FACILITIES AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-70 SO AS TO PERMIT A SMALL MODULAR NUCLEAR PILOT PROGRAM AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR STATE AGENCY REVIEW OF ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT APPLICATIONS AND TO PROVIDE A SUNSET; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-40-10, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR", SO AS TO ESTABLISH CHARACTERISTICS FOR A "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-30, RELATING TO VOLUNTARY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "ENERGY STORAGE FACILITIES"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-20, RELATING TO PROCEEDINGS FOR ELECTRICAL UTILITIES' AVOIDED COST METHODOLOGIES AND RELATED PROCESSES, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAMS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY, CAPACITY, AND STORAGE, TO PERMIT COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT OF NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY CAPACITY AND ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAMS, AND TO DELETE LANGUAGE REGARDING THE COMMISSION HIRING THIRD-PARTY EXPERTS FOR THESE PROCEEDINGS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-41-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PROCESS FOR COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION "LIKE FACILITY"; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 3 OF CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58, RELATING TO CERTIFICATION OF MAJOR UTILITY FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A LIKE FACILITY, TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR PROPOSED FACILITIES, TO PROVIDE WHAT ACTIONS MAY BE TAKEN WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE COMMISSION, AND TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-40, RELATING TO INTEGRATED RESOURCES PLANS, SO AS TO ADD CONSIDERATION OF A UTILITY'S TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION RESOURCE PLAN, TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION BY THE COMMISSION, AND REQUIRE PARTIES TO BEAR THEIR OWN COSTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-260, RELATING TO COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN THE COMMISSION AND PARTIES, SO AS TO MODIFY REQUIREMENTS FOR ALLOWABLE EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS AND BRIEFINGS, AND TO PERMIT COMMISSION TOURS OF UTILITY PLANTS OR OTHER FACILITIES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-270, RELATING TO EX PARTE COMMUNICATION COMPLAINT PROCEEDINGS AT THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SO AS TO PERMIT AN ORDER TOLLING ANY DEADLINES ON A PROCEEDING SUBJECT TO A COMPLAINT TO THE EXTENT THE PROCEEDING WAS PREJUDICED SO THAT THE COMMISSION COULD NOT CONSIDER THE MATTER IMPARTIALLY; BY ADDING CHAPTER 43 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO ESTABLISH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RATES FOR ELECTRICAL UTILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-310, RELATING TO AN APPEAL FROM A FINAL ORDER OR DECISION OF THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A FINAL ORDER ISSUED PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58 BE IMMEDIATELY APPEALABLE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT AND TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXPEDITED HEARING; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-320, RELATING TO JOINT HEARINGS AND JOINT INVESTIGATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-160 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO CONDUCT A STUDY TO EVALUATE ESTABLISHING A THIRD-PARTY ADMINISTRATOR FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD A REFERENCE TO "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM" AND PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR "COST-EFFECTIVE" AND "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PILOT PROGRAM"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-20, RELATING TO COMMISSION PROCEDURES ENCOURAGING ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO EXPAND COMMISSION CONSIDERATIONS FOR COST-EFFECTIVE DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS, AND REQUIRE EACH INVESTOR-OWNED ELECTRICAL UTILITY TO SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMISSION REGARDING ITS DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-30, RELATING TO REPORTS ON DEMAND-SIDE ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-35 SO AS TO PERMIT PROGRAMS AND CUSTOMER INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE OR PROMOTE DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS FOR CUSTOMER SITED DISTRIBUTION RESOURCES, AND TO PROVIDE CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-50, RELATING TO AGREEMENTS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN TERMS AND RATE RECOVERY FOR AGREEMENTS FOR FINANCING AND INSTALLING ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, AND FOR APPLICATION TO A RESIDENCE OCCUPIED BEFORE THE MEASURES ARE TAKEN; BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-215 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, TO SERVE AS AN ANCHOR SUBSCRIBER OF NATURAL GAS AND PIPELINE CAPACITY FOR THIS STATE, TO ESTABLISH THE "ENERGY INVESTMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND", AND TO PROVIDE FOR RELATED REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-70, RELATING TO COMPENSATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION MEMBERS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH SALARIES IN AMOUNTS EQUAL TO NINETY-SEVEN AND ONE-HALF PERCENT OF SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., April 10, 2024

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 3992 (Word version) -- Reps. Blackwell, McGinnis, Sandifer, Ligon, Cromer, Magnuson, White, Pace and Burns: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 41-31-60, RELATING TO DELINQUENT UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION TAX RATES, SO AS TO PERMIT EMPLOYERS WITH INSTALLMENT PAYMENT AGREEMENTS APPROVED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND WORKFORCE TO PAY THE TAX AT A REDUCED RATE, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE AUTOMATIC REVERSION OF THIS RATE UPON FAILURE TO TIMELY COMPLY WITH THE PAYMENT AGREEMENT.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., April 10, 2024

Mr. President and Senators:

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

H. 4928 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, B.J. Cox, Hart, Jefferson, J. Moore, Caskey and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-21-10, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF VETERANS' TRUST FUND, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR FUNDRAISING; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 25-21-30, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE VETERANS' TRUST FUND BOARD OF TRUSTEES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ABILITY TO FUNDRAISE.
and has ordered the Bill enrolled for Ratification.
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

HOUSE CONCURRENCES

S. 479 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME CHALK STREET IN THE RICHLAND COUNTY TOWN OF EASTOVER FROM POULTRY LANE TO MAIN STREET "FREDDIE E. CAMPBELL, SR. MEMORIAL STREET" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 988 (Word version) -- Senator Shealy: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY PALMETTO GIRLS STATE TO USE THE CHAMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ON FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2024.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1037 (Word version) -- Senators Adams and Grooms: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF ROYLE ROAD IN BERKELEY COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 17A/NORTH MAIN STREET TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH TREELAND DRIVE "WADE ARNETTE ROAD" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS ALONG THIS PORTION OF ROADWAY CONTAINING THESE WORDS.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1041 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF US HIGHWAY 17A IN BERKELEY COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH HARRISTOWN ROAD TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH HOODTOWN ROAD "REV. LARRY A. BRADBERRY HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1101 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERCHANGE LOCATED AT EXIT 38 ALONG INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 95 IN HAMPTON COUNTY "MAJOR GENERAL ARNOLD FIELDS INTERCHANGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1163 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Grooms and Adams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME A PORTION OF HIGHWAY 703 AND THE INTERSECTION OF CHUCK DAWLEY BOULEVARD (I-526B) IN CHARLESTON COUNTY "DETECTIVE PAT MESSER MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1230 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2024, IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING JUDICIAL ELECTIONS, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A MEMBER TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE SECOND CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 3, THIRD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 5, FOURTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 7, FIFTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 9, SIXTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 11, SEVENTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 13, AT-LARGE SEAT 15, AND AT-LARGE SEAT 17, OF WHICH ALL TERMS WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026; TO ELECT A MEMBER TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF FRANCIS MARION UNIVERSITY TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE ON JUNE 30, 2026, THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE SECOND CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE ON JUNE 30, 2024, THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIFTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 5 AND FOR THE SIXTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 6, OF WHICH BOTH TERMS WILL EXPIRE ON JUNE 30, 2026, AND THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR AT-LARGE SEATS 8, 10, 12, AND 13, OF WHICH ALL TERMS WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026; TO ELECT A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF LANDER UNIVERSITY TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 9, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE ON JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO FILL THE TERM OF THE MEMBER FOR THE FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT MEDICAL SEAT, SECOND CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT MEDICAL SEAT, THIRD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT MEDICAL SEAT, FOURTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT LAY SEAT, FIFTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT LAY SEAT, SIXTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT MEDICAL SEAT, AND SEVENTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT LAY SEAT, OF WHICH ALL TERMS WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026; TO ELECT A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY TO FILL THE TERM OF A MEMBER FOR THE FIFTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 5, SEVENTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 7, AND AT-LARGE SEATS 9 AND 11, OF WHICH ALL TERMS WILL EXPIRE ON JUNE 30, 2026; AND TO ELECT A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WINTHROP UNIVERSITY FOR THE FOURTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE ON JUNE 30, 2028; AND TO FIX WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2024, IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY BOARDS OF TRUSTEES ELECTIONS, AS THE TIME TO ELECT MEMBERS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND WORKFORCE'S APPELLATE PANEL.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1240 (Word version) -- Senator Sabb: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE EDITH MCCLARY REDDEN UPON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT, TO COMMEND HER FOR HER FORTY-SEVEN YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE, AND TO WISH HER MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

S. 1246 (Word version) -- Senator McElveen: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO HONOR THE LIFE OF CARL MARKS SIMPSON III OF SUMTER UPON HIS PASSING, TO CELEBRATE HIS MEMORY AND HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE CITIZENS OF SUMTER, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

ADJOURNMENT

At 1:40 P.M., on motion of Senator SETZLER, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M., under the provisions of Rule 1B.

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