NO. 2

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

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

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

Psalm 37:5-6

The Psalmist writes: "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun."

Please, join me as we bow in prayer: Most gracious and ever-loving Lord, we come to You on this initial day of the South Carolina Senate's 126th Regular Session humbly asking that You lead these servants as they themselves commit to giving their very best to the people of our State. Indeed, O God, the way ahead for these Senators is a challenging one. Today's issues are great, and many solutions will prove difficult to attain. Therefore, Lord, may each of these Senators and their staff members ever remain faithful to You as You guide our State into the true brightness of a new day. And know, dear God, that we all continue to hold in our hearts the plight of our sisters and brothers on the west coast, suffering as they are from the horrors of recently raging fires. In Your loving name do we humbly pray, dear Lord. Amen.

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

The following appointments were transmitted by the Honorable Henry Dargan McMaster:

Initial Appointment, Abbeville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Erin B. Kollman, 200 Dundas Road, Abbeville, SC 29620-2342 VICE Phillip Ray

Initial Appointment, Dorchester County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Randall L. Charpia, 114 Dorchester Ave., Summerville, SC 29438-3740 VICE Jacquelyn Jenkins

Initial Appointment, Dorchester County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Margie A. Pizarro, 1204 Congressional Blvd., Summerville, SC 29483-5024 VICE Janice Simmons

The following were received and referred to the appropriate committees for consideration:
Document No. 5192
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10 and 7-3-20
SUBJECT: R.45-1, Definitions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5193
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-2, Instructions and Certification of Managers and Clerks in the Use of Vote Recorders
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5194
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-3, Tabulating Center Personnel
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5195
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-4, Certification of Program Instructions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5196
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-5, Ballot Envelopes and Fold Over Ballot Cards
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5197
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-6, Defective Ballot Cards
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5198
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-7, Ballot Cards, Sealed After Tabulation
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5199
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-325, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-9, Write-in-Ballots, Sealed After Tabulation
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5201
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10 and 7-3-20
SUBJECT: Emergency Election Procedures
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5202
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10 and 7-3-20
SUBJECT: Poll Worker Training; Candidate Withdrawals
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5203
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10 and 7-3-20
SUBJECT: Procedures for Electronic Petitions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5204
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, 7-13-1490, and 7-13-1655
SUBJECT: R.45-10, Retention and Disposition of Certain Voting Records
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5205
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10 and 7-3-20
SUBJECT: Reports to State Election Commission by County Boards of Voter Registration and Elections
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5225
Agency: State Election Commission
Chapter: 45
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 7-3-10, 7-3-20, and 7-13-1640
SUBJECT: Retention and Storage of Election Records and Election Equipment
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5242
Agency: Public Service Commission
Chapter: 103
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 58-3-140, 58-23-590, 58-23-1010,
58-23-1070, and 58-23-1130
SUBJECT: Article 2, Motor Carriers
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5267
Agency: Public Service Commission
Chapter: 103
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 58-3-140, 58-9-720, and 58-9-810
SUBJECT: Article 6, Telecommunications Utilities
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5271
Agency: South Carolina Conservation Bank
Chapter: 16
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 48-59-70(M)
SUBJECT: Procurement of Appraisal Services
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5272
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - South Carolina Board of Examiners in Opticianry
Chapter: 96
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70 and 40-38-60
SUBJECT: South Carolina Board of Examiners in Opticianry
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5275
Agency: Public Service Commission
Chapter: 103
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 58-3-140
SUBJECT: Written Interrogatories and Request for Production of Documents and Things
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5276
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Board of Cosmetology
Chapter: 35
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 40-13-70
SUBJECT: Practice of Esthetics Generally; and Sanitary and Safety Rules for Salons and Schools
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5281
Agency: State Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 34-1-60
SUBJECT: Income and Expense Statements Re Dividends
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5283
Agency: State Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 34-26-210
SUBJECT: Authority to Engage in Activities Authorized for Federally Chartered Institutions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5285
Agency: Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 34-1-110 and 34-26-210
SUBJECT: Record Retention for Credit Unions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5286
Agency: State Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 34-26-210
SUBJECT: Declaration of Dividends by State-chartered Credit Unions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5289
Agency: Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 34-1-60 and 34-50-530(A)
SUBJECT: Retention of Bank Records
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5290
Agency: State Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 34-26-210
SUBJECT: Electronic Fund Transfers
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5292
Agency: Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 34-1-60 and 34-50-530(A)
SUBJECT: State Bank Dividends
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5293
Agency: Board of Financial Institutions
Chapter: 15
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 34-26-210
SUBJECT: Terms and Conditions for State-chartered Credit Union to Make ARM Loans
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5296
Agency: Department of Social Services
Chapter: 114
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 63-7-2320
SUBJECT: Approval of Kinship Family Foster Homes and Kinship Adoptive Homes for Children in Foster Care
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Family and Veterans Services

Document No. 5300
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Commissioners of Pilotage
Chapter: 136
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-50, 40-1-70, 54-15-10, and 54-15-140
SUBJECT: Commissioners of Pilotage
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5301
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Board of Social Work Examiners
Chapter: 110
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70 and 40-63-70
SUBJECT: Continuing Education Requirements
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5302
Agency: South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Chapter: 37
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 23-23-10 et seq.
SUBJECT: Investigation of Events Requiring Withdrawal of Certification; Notification to Officer
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5303
Agency: Department of Social Services
Chapter: 114
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 43-1-80 and 63-9-360
SUBJECT: Certification of Adoption Investigators and Persons Obtaining Consents or Relinquishments
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Family and Veterans Services

Document No. 5304
Agency: South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Chapter: 37
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 23-23-10 et seq.
SUBJECT: Sanctions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Document No. 5306
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Building Codes Council
Chapter: 8
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 6-8-20 and 40-1-70
SUBJECT: Continuing Education for Code Enforcement Officers
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5307
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Board of Cosmetology
Chapter: 35
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-13-60 and 40-13-70
SUBJECT: Licensure for Out-of-State Applicants
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5308
Agency: Department of Social Services
Chapter: 114
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 63-11-30
SUBJECT: Child Placing Agencies Regulations
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Family and Veterans Services

Document No. 5309
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Board of Cosmetology
Chapter: 35
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-13-60 and 40-13-70
SUBJECT: State Board of Cosmetology
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5310
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - South Carolina State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors
Chapter: 49
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70, 40-22-50(B), and 40-22-60
SUBJECT: Units of Credit
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5311
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - South Carolina Board of Genetic Counselors
Chapter: 41
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70 and 40-85-10(B)(1)(d)
SUBJECT: South Carolina Board of Genetic Counselors
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5312
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Board of Medical Examiners
Chapter: 81
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70, 40-47-10, 40-47-110, and 40-47-1010
SUBJECT: Continuing Education Requirements for PAs
Received by President of the Senate January 14-2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5313
Agency: Department of Social Services
Chapter: 114
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 43-1-80
SUBJECT: Foster Care and Adoptions
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Family and Veterans Services

Document No. 5315
Agency: Department of Social Services
Chapter: 114
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 43-1-80 and 63-9-1700 through 1810
SUBJECT: Supplemental Benefits for Adoption and Medical Assistance
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Family and Veterans Services

Document No. 5318
Agency: State Board of Education
Chapter: 53
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-5-60, 59-5-65, 59-18-110, 59-18-300, 59-18-310(B), 59-18-320(C), 59-25-110, 59-26-10 et seq., 59-29-10 et seq.,
59-33-30, 59-53-1810, 20 U.S.C. Section 1232(g), 20 U.S.C. Section 6301 et seq., and Pub. L. No. 114-95
SUBJECT: Requirements for Certification at the Advanced Level
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Education

Document No. 5319
Agency: State Board of Education
Chapter: 43
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-21-510, 59-33-10, and 59-33-120
SUBJECT: Sign Language Interpreters
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Education

Document No. 5320
Agency: Department of Insurance
Chapter: 69
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 1-23-110 et seq., 38-3-110(2), and 38-21-300
SUBJECT: Insurance Holding Company Systems
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5321
Agency: State Commission on Higher Education
Chapter: 62
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-149-10 et seq.
SUBJECT: LIFE Scholarship and Scholarship Enhancement
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Education

Document No. 5322
Agency: State Commission on Higher Education
Chapter: 62
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 59-104-20
SUBJECT: Palmetto Fellows Scholarship Program
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Education

Document No. 5323
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 121
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 58-6-10 et seq., 48-43-10 et seq., and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Oil and Gas Exploration, Drilling, and Production
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5324
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 61
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-55-610 et seq., 44-55-825, 44-55-827, 48-1-10 et seq., 48-6-10 et seq., and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Onsite Wastewater Systems; State Environmental Laboratory Certification Program
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5325
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 61
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-87-10 et seq., 48-1-10 et seq., 48-6-10 et seq., and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Air Pollution Control Regulations and Standards; South Carolina Air Quality Implementation Plan (State Implementation Plan or SIP); and Standards of Performance for Asbestos Projects
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5326
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 19
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 48-6-10 et seq., 49-1-10, and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Permits for Construction in Navigable Waters
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5327
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 30
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 48-6-10 et seq., 48-39-10 et seq., and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Bureau of Coastal Management, Chapter 30
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5328
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 61
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 13-7-10 et seq., 44-2-10 et seq., 44-56-10 et seq., 44-93-10 et seq., 44-96-10 et seq., 48-1-10 et seq., 48-6-10 et seq., 48-60-5 et seq., and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Bureau of Land and Water Management, Chapter 61
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5329
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Chapter: 123
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 50-11-860, 50-11-2200, and 50-11-2210
SUBJECT: Additional Regulations Applicable to Specific Properties
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry

Document No. 5330
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Chapter: 123
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 50-11-1910 and 50-11-1920
SUBJECT: Deer Processors and Donated Deer Processing Fee Recovery
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry

Document No. 5331
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Chapter: 123
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 50-11-546
SUBJECT: Electronic Harvest Reporting of Big Game - SC Game Check
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry

Document No. 5332
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Chapter: 123
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 50-1-60, 50-1-200, 50-1-220, 50-9-650, 50-11-10, 50-11-105, 50-11-300, 50-11-310, 50-11-315, 50-11-320, 50-11-365,
50-11-390, 50-11-410, 50-11-430, 50-11-500, 50-11-525, 50-11-530, 50-11-540, 50-11-544, 50-11-546, 50-11-580, 50-11-2200, and 50-11-2210
SUBJECT: Wildlife Management Area Regulations; Turkey Hunting Rules and Seasons; and Bear Hunting Rules and Seasons
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry

Document No. 5333
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 61
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-55-10 et seq., 46-45-80, 48-1-10 et seq., 48-6-10 et seq., 49-4-10 et seq., 49-5-10 et seq., and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Bureau of Water, Chapter 61
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5334
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Addiction Counselors and Psycho-Educational Specialists
Chapter: 36
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70 and 40-75-60
SUBJECT: Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Addiction Counselors and Psycho-Educational Specialists
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry
Document No. 5335
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - South Carolina State Board of Funeral Service
Chapter: 57
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70, 40-19-60, and 40-19-70
SUBJECT: South Carolina State Board of Funeral Service
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5336
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators
Chapter: 93
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70 and 40-35-60
SUBJECT: South Carolina Board of Long Term Health Care Administrators
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5337
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 72
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 48-6-10 et seq., 48-14-10 et seq., 49-11-240, and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Dams and Reservoirs Safety Act Regulations; Standards for Stormwater Management and Sediment Reduction
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5338
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Office of Occupational Safety and Health
Chapter: 71
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 41-15-220
SUBJECT: Worker Walkaround Representative Designation Process
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5339
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Board of Pharmacy
Chapter: 99
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70, 40-43-60(D)(8), 40-43-83(I), and 40-43-86(B)(3)(c)
SUBJECT: State Board of Pharmacy
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5340
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - South Carolina Real Estate Appraisers Board
Chapter: 137
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70, 40-60-10(I), and 40-60-38
SUBJECT: South Carolina Real Estate Appraisers Board
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5341
Agency: Department of Public Health
Chapter: 60
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 30-4-45 and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Access to Restricted Information
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5342
Agency: Department of Public Health
Chapter: 60
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-7-110 et seq.
SUBJECT: Residential Treatment Facilities for Children and Adolescents
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5343
Agency: Department of Health and Environmental Control
Chapter: 89
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 48-6-10 et seq., 48-20-10, and 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Office of the Governor - Mining Council of South Carolina
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Document No. 5344
Agency: Department of Public Health
Chapter: 60
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-75-10 et seq. and 2023 Act No. 77
SUBJECT: Athletic Trainers
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5347
Agency: Department of Public Health
Chapter: 60
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-7-110 et seq.
SUBJECT: Standards for Licensing Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5348
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
Chapter: 10
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-50 and 40-1-70
SUBJECT: Fee Schedules
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5349
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
Chapter: 10
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-50 and 40-1-70
SUBJECT: Fee Schedules - Biennial Adjustments
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5350
Agency: Department of Public Health
Chapter: 60
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 44-7-110 et seq.
SUBJECT: Standards for Licensing Crisis Stabilization Unit Facilities
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5351
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Athletic Commission
Chapter: 20
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 40-81-70(A)(6)
SUBJECT: State Athletic Commission
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5352
Agency: Department of Public Health
Chapter: 60
Statutory Authority: 2023 Act No. 60, effective July 1, 2024
SUBJECT: Transfer of DPH Regulations to New Chapter and Amendment to Department of Health and Environmental Control References
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5353
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Office of Elevators and Amusement Rides
Chapter: 71
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 41-16-140 and 41-18-120
SUBJECT: Office of Elevators and Amusement Rides
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5354
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Addiction Counselors and Psycho-Educational Specialists
Chapter: 36
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70 and 40-75-60
SUBJECT: Licensing Provisions for Professional Counselor Associate and Marriage and Family Therapy Associates
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry

Document No. 5355
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - State Board of Dentistry
Chapter: 39
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 40-15-40
SUBJECT: State Board of Dentistry
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5356
Agency: Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation - Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
Chapter: 120
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 40-1-70, 40-69-60, and 40-69-70
SUBJECT: Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Medical Affairs

Document No. 5358
Agency: Department of Transportation
Chapter: 63
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 57-25-170
SUBJECT: Specific Information Service Signing
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Transportation

Document No. 5359
Agency: State Board of Education
Chapter: 43
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Section 59-5-60
SUBJECT: Assessment Program
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Education
Document No. 5360
Agency: Department of Transportation
Chapter: 63
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 57-25-800 though 57-25-830
SUBJECT: Agritourism and Tourism-Oriented Directional Signing
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Transportation

Document No. 5363
Agency: Attorney General
Chapter: 13
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 35-11-100 et seq.
SUBJECT: Money Services
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5364
Agency: Attorney General
Chapter: 13
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 35-1-101 et seq.
SUBJECT: Securities
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Document No. 5365
Agency: Attorney General
Chapter: 13
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 35-1-101 et seq.
SUBJECT: Securities Exemption
Received by President of the Senate January 14, 2025
Referred to Committee on Banking and Insurance

Senator REICHENBACH introduced Dr. Coleman Buckhouse of Florence, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Senator VERDIN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

On motion of Senator DAVIS, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator VERDIN, when reduced to writing and made available to the Desk, would be printed in the Journal.

Senator CAMPSEN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 12 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 14 (Word version)     Sen. Zell
S. 32 (Word version)     Sens. Leber and Rice
S. 35 (Word version)     Sens. Grooms and Rice
S. 39 (Word version)     Sens. Hutto and Graham
S. 51 (Word version)     Sens. Grooms, Stubbs, Massey, Garrett, Sutton, Turner, Graham, Gambrell, Zell, Johnson, Rice, Campsen, Sabb, Tedder, Fernandez, Leber, Devine, Climer, Cromer, Hutto, Young, Kimbrell, Matthews, Jackson, Blackmon, Adams, Hembree, Corbin and Williams
S. 54 (Word version)     Sen. Rice
S. 59 (Word version)     Sen. Rice
S. 60 (Word version)     Sen. Blackmon
S. 61 (Word version)     Sen. Rice
S. 62 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 65 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 67 (Word version)     Sen. Leber
S. 71 (Word version)     Sen. Zell
S. 74 (Word version)     Sen. Leber
S. 76 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 77 (Word version)     Sens. Grooms and Zell
S. 78 (Word version)     Sen. Zell
S. 85 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 90 (Word version)     Sens. Zell and Bennett
S. 103 (Word version)     Sen. Kimbrell
S. 109 (Word version)     Sen. Zell
S. 113 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 114 (Word version)     Sens. Grooms and Rice
S. 115 (Word version)     Sens. Grooms and Rice
S. 117 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 120 (Word version)     Sen. Leber
S. 131 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms
S. 132 (Word version)     Sen. Blackmon
S. 134 (Word version)     Sens. Blackmon and Leber
S. 138 (Word version)     Sen. Leber
S. 151 (Word version)     Sen. Leber
S. 153 (Word version)     Sens. Zell, Kimbrell and Rice

The following were introduced:

S. 2 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander and Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 12 TO TITLE 44 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS POWERS, DUTIES, AND AUTHORITY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT IS COMPRISED OF THE OFFICE OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES, THE OFFICE OF MENTAL HEALTH, AND THE OFFICE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-30-10, RELATING TO DEPARTMENTS OF STATE GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO ADD THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, AND TO REMOVE THE DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG ABUSE SERVICES, THE DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, AND THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-17-370, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, ALL EMPLOYEES WHO REPORT DIRECTLY TO THE DIRECTOR, AND THE DIRECTOR FOR EACH OF THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE'S COMPONENT OFFICES ARE NOT SUBJECT TO THE STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-20-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY, RELATED DISABILITIES, HEAD INJURIES, AND SPINAL CORD INJURIES ACT, SO AS TO CONFORM THE DEFINITIONS TO THE CREATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, AND TO REDESIGNATE THE DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS AS THE OFFICE OF INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AS A COMPONENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-20-210, RELATING TO CREATION OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMISSION ON DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, MEMBERSHIP, TERMS OF OFFICE, REMOVAL, AND VACANCIES, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE COMMISSION AND CONFORM TO THE CREATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-20-220, RELATING TO DUTIES OF COMMISSION, SO AS TO TRANSFER THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO THE HEAD OF THE OFFICE OF INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-20-230, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE DIRECTOR, SO AS TO CONFORM TO THE CREATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-20-240, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SCOPE OF AUTHORITY FOR THE OFFICE OF INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-20-255, RELATING TO OWNERSHIP OF PROPERTY CONFIRMED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, SO AS TO TRANSFER OWNERSHIP TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-49-10, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG ABUSE SERVICES, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE DEPARTMENT AND CONFORM TO THE CREATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND THE OFFICE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-49-20, RELATING TO THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE OFFICE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-9-10, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, SO AS TO CONFORM TO THE CREATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND CREATE THE OFFICE OF MENTAL HEALTH, PROVIDE FOR THE HEAD OF THE OFFICE, AND PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE HEAD OF THE OFFICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-9-20, RELATING TO TRANSFER OF POWERS, DUTIES, RECORDS, AND FILES FROM FORMER MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION, SO AS TO FURTHER TRANSFER THOSE POWERS, DUTIES, RECORDS, AND FILES TO THE OFFICE OF MENTAL HEALTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-9-30, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF SOUTH THE CAROLINA MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-420, RELATING TO PROCLAMATION OF EMERGENCY BY GOVERNOR, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PROCESS THROUGH WHICH EMERGENCY PROCLAMATIONS MAY BE LIFTED; BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-440, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE GOVERNOR DURING A DECLARED EMERGENCY, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PROCESS THROUGH WHICH DECLARATIONS OF EMERGENCY MAY BE LIFTED; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-86, RELATING TO FACILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PHARMACIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH A PHARMACIST MAY REFUSE TO FILL OR REFILL A PRESCRIPTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-1-100, RELATING TO ASSISTANCE FROM PEACE AND HEALTH OFFICERS IN A STATE OF EMERGENCY, SO AS TO GIVE SHERIFFS AND POLICE OFFICERS THE DISCRETION AS TO WHETHER TO AID AND ASSIST THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH IN CARRYING OUT HIS ORDERS DURING A STATE OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-130, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING EMERGENCY HEALTH POWERS, SO AS TO ADD NECESSARY DEFINITIONS AND AMEND CERTAIN DEFINITIONS TO REFLECT CHANGES IN AGENCY NAMES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-510, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS OR TESTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISOLATE OR QUARANTINE, PURSUANT TO THE SECTIONS OF THIS ACT AND ITS EXISTING POWERS UNDER SECTION 44-1-140, ANY SYMPTOMATIC PERSON OR PERSON WHO HAS BEEN EXPOSED TO THE CONTAGIOUS DISEASE FOR WHICH THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY HAS BEEN DECLARED WHOSE REFUSAL OF PHYSICAL EXAMINATION OR TESTING RESULTS IN UNCERTAINTY REGARDING WHETHER HE IS INFECTED WITH THE CONTAGIOUS DISEASE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-520, RELATING TO VACCINATIONS AND TREATMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH MAY VACCINATE OR TREAT PEOPLE TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF CONTAGIOUS DISEASES, TO REQUIRE INFORMED CONSENT UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO DEFINE INFORMED CONSENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-530, RELATING TO ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE OF INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT, DURING A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY, THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH 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 REQUIRE A HARD DEADLINE FOR A PETITION FOR AN ORDER AUTHORIZING THE ISOLATION OR QUARANTINE OF AN INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-570, RELATING TO EMERGENCY POWERS REGARDING LICENSING OF HEALTH PERSONNEL, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT STATE HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS MAY BE COMPELLED TO ASSIST IN THE PERFORMANCE OF VACCINATION, TREATMENT, EXAMINATION OR TESTING AS A CONDITION OF LICENSURE; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 44-9-40 RELATING TO STATE DIRECTOR OF MENTAL HEALTH, APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL, POWERS AND DUTIES, AND QUALIFICATIONS.
sr-0099km25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 3 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-120, RELATING TO PERSONS DISQUALIFIED FROM REGISTERING OR VOTING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT DISQUALIFICATION DUE TO A FELONY CONVICTION IS REMOVED, AND THE PERSON'S VOTING RIGHTS AUTOMATICALLY RESTORED, UPON RELEASE FROM PRISON; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-170, RELATING TO INFORMATION CONTAINED ON VOTER REGISTRATION FORMS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT AN APPLICANT AFFIRM, AMONG OTHER THINGS, HE HAS NEVER BEEN CONVICTED OF A FELONY OR OFFENSE AGAINST THE ELECTION LAWS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-185, RELATING TO ELECTRONIC APPLICATIONS FOR VOTER REGISTRATION, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
lc-0048hdb25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 4 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 6-39-10 SO AS TO REDUCE CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE AND PERMITTING COSTS AND BARRIERS TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF HOUSING WHILE MAINTAINING SAFETY, PUBLIC HEALTH, AND THE GENERAL WELFARE WITH RESPECT TO CONSTRUCTION AND OCCUPANCY; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-25-120, RELATING TO INSPECTORS OF BUILDINGS, SO AS TO ALLOW A BUILDER TO HIRE A CERTIFIED THIRD-PARTY INSPECTOR TO PERFORM THE DUTIES OF THE LOCAL INSPECTOR OF BUILDINGS AS THEY RELATE TO THAT BUILDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-3-290, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS FROM COVERAGE OF THE CHAPTER, SO AS TO REVISE AN EXEMPTION FOR PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR CERTAIN DWELLINGS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 5 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-42 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT DIVISION MUST NOT RELEASE CERTAIN INFORMATION REGARDING ARRESTS PURSUANT TO CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECKS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 6 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 30-4-30, RELATING TO THE RIGHT TO INSPECT OR COPY PUBLIC RECORDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A TIMELINE OF FIVE DAYS FOR PROVIDING RECORDS WITH CERTAIN RESPONSES, TO PROVIDE THAT THE APPROPRIATE COURT CAN BE PETITIONED FOR ADDITIONAL TIME TO RESPOND, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A FAILURE TO RESPOND TO A REQUEST IS DEEMED A DENIAL AND A VIOLATION OF THIS CHAPTER.
smin-0014mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 7 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "RED FLAGS ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 12 TO CHAPTER 31, TITLE 23, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE AUTHORITY OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TO SEIZE A PERSON"S FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION IF THE PERSON POSES A RISK OF IMMINENT PERSONAL INJURY TO HIMSELF OR OTHER INDIVIDUALS; TO ESTABLISH CRITERIA ADDRESSING APPLICATION FOR AND ISSUANCE OF A WARRANT; TO REQUIRE THE PROBATE COURT TO HOLD A HEARING WITHIN SEVEN DAYS OF EXECUTION OF THE WARRANT TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION MAY BE RETURNED TO THE PERSON; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
smin-0006mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 8 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-170 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL SHALL ESTABLISH POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND TRAINING COURSES RELATING TO CIRCUMSTANCES UPON WHICH A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER MAY ENGAGE IN VEHICULAR PURSUITS.
smin-0009mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 9 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-90(2), RELATING TO "GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES", SO AS TO EXCLUDE FEES OR CHARGES IMPOSED BY A FUNERAL HOME OR UNDERTAKER FOR THE USE OF ITS EQUIPMENT IN ITS PROVISION OF BURIAL OR GRAVESIDE SERVICES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 10 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-150, RELATING TO PAID PARENTAL LEAVE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF WEEKS FOR PAID PARENTAL LEAVE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-155, RELATING TO PAID PARENTAL LEAVE, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
smin-0031mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 11 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-150(A), RELATING TO PAID PARENTAL LEAVE, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "ELIGIBLE STATE EMPLOYEE".
smin-0032mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 12 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-205 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY TO JOINTLY OWN, AS TENANTS-IN-COMMON OR THROUGH A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, WITH INVESTOR-OWNED UTILITIES, ELECTRICAL GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION FACILITIES.
sj-0001bj25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 13 (Word version) -- Senator Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-2-80, RELATING TO TAX FEATURES OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA COLLEGE INVESTMENT PROGRAM, SO AS TO ALLOW EMPLOYERS TO MAKE TAX DEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO EMPLOYEE COLLEGE INVESTMENT TRUST ACCOUNTS.
sr-0071km25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 14 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM SALES TAX SO AS TO PROVIDE A SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR BABY FORMULA AND BABY FOOD.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 15 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-1100, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR DRIVING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FOR DRIVING A MOPED FOR A PERSON DECLARED AN HABITUAL OFFENDER, AND TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES PROVIDES SPECIFIC NOTICE TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OR THE APPROPRIATE SOLICITOR OF ANY VIOLATIONS OF THIS SECTION.
smin-0049mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Transportation

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

S. 16 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-820, RELATING TO OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE EXCEPTION FOR CHILDREN TO BE TRIED AS AN ADULT AND TO DECREASE THE LENGTH OF TIME THAT A CHILD MAY BE HELD IN A JUVENILE DETENTION FACILITY FOR COMMITTING A STATUS OFFENSE OR FOR VIOLATING A RELATED COURT ORDER; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1020, RELATING TO INSTITUTING PROCEEDINGS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT THE CHILD AND HIS FAMILY SEEK COUNSELING WHEN THE STATUS OFFENSE IS OF INCORRIGIBILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1440, RELATING TO COMMITMENT, SO AS TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN STATUS AND CRIMINAL OFFENSES AND CHANGE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR COURT ORDERS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1810, RELATING TO DETERMINATION OF RELEASE, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2050, RELATING TO PETITION FOR EXPUNGEMENT OF OFFICIAL RECORDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE AUTOMATIC EXPUNGEMENT OF OFFICIAL RECORDS FOR STATUS OFFENSES WITH EXCEPTIONS AND MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 17 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-540(A), (C), (E), AND (H), RELATING TO ELECTRONIC MONITORING, SO AS TO REQUIRE ACTIVE ELECTRONIC MONITORING FOR THE OFFENSE OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT WITH A MINOR IN THE SECOND DEGREE WITH EXCEPTIONS.
smin-0053mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 18 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-23-540 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF CRIMINALLY NEGLIGENT STORAGE OF A FIREARM, DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AND ESTABLISH PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
smin-0058mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 19 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 11 TO CHAPTER 111, TITLE 59, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE "HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM", TO PROVIDE FOR THE ELIGIBILITY, ADMINISTRATION, AND FUNDING OF THE PROGRAM, TO CREATE AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 20 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-9-20, RELATING TO THE DURATION OF HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES, PERMITS, AND TAGS FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES, SO AS TO AMEND THE NATIVE AMERICAN INDIAN LICENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-9-530, RELATING TO GRATIS, SENIOR, AND CATAWBA LICENSES, SO AS TO AMEND NATIVE AMERICAN INDIAN LICENSE AND PROVIDE FOR PROCESS FOR PROOF OF MEMBERSHIP OF A RECOGNIZED NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBE OR GROUP; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-9-570, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL HUNTING OF MIGRATORY GAME BIRDS WITHOUT PERMIT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-515, RELATING TO THE USE OF WILD TURKEY FEATHERS IN ART, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SALE OF TRADITIONAL CRAFTS BY NATIVE AMERICAN INDIAN ARTISTS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 21 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-15 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE PENALTY OF LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL WHO IS UNDER THE AGE OF EIGHTEEN AT THE TIME OF COMMITTING AN OFFENSE AND TO PROVIDE MAXIMUM SENTENCES FOR THOSE INDIVIDUALS WHO COMMITTED AN OFFENSE ENUMERATED IN THIS SECTION AS A MINOR BEFORE THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE ACT; BY ADDING SECTION 17-25-35 SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 17-25-45, RELATING TO LIFE SENTENCES FOR CERTAIN CRIMES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR REPRESENTATION BY COUNSEL AND TO PROVIDE FACTORS FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE DEPARTMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1690 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF RESTRAINTS, ISOLATION, AND ROOM CONFINEMENT FOR JUVENILE OFFENDERS, WITH EXCEPTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-311, RELATING TO FIRST DEGREE BURGLARY, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 17-25-20, RELATING TO PUNISHMENT FOR A FELONY WHEN NOT SPECIALLY PROVIDED, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF SOLITARY CONFINEMENT FOR A PERSON WHO IS YOUNGER THAN EIGHTEEN; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 24-13-100, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF NO PAROLE OFFENSE, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
smin-0048mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 22 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-770, RELATING TO WINES THAT MAY BE SOLD IN LICENSED ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR STORES, SO AS TO CHANGE THE PERCENTAGE OF ALCOHOL IN WINES THAT MAY BE SOLD FROM SIXTEEN AND ONE-HALF PERCENT TO TWENTY PERCENT.
smin-0047mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 23 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-436, RELATING TO REGISTRATION OF PERSONS ADJUDICATED DELINQUENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT JUVENILES UNDER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE MUST NOT BE REQUIRED TO REGISTER AS SEX OFFENDERS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-490(E), RELATING TO PUBLIC INSPECTION OF OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO REVISE THE LIST OF OFFENSES FOR WHICH JUVENILES ARE ADJUDICATED DELINQUENT THAT REQUIRE CERTAIN INFORMATION ON THE JUVENILES BE MADE AVAILABLE TO CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC.
smin-0046mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 24 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1440(C), RELATING TO COMMITMENT TO THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE, SO AS TO ALLOW A COURT TO ORDER TEMPORARY COMMITMENT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE FOR NOT MORE THAN TEN DAYS FOR EVALUATION.
smin-0045mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 25 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-1-100, RELATING TO THE MINIMUM AGE FOR VALID MARRIAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL YOUNGER THAN EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE IS NOT CAPABLE OF ENTERING INTO A VALID MARRIAGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 20-1-290, RELATING TO WILFUL FAILURE OF LICENSE-ISSUING OFFICER TO COMPLY WITH SECTIONS 20-1-250, 20-1-260 AND 20-1-270 AS CAUSE FOR REMOVAL, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO CODE SECTIONS REPEALED BY THIS BILL; BY REPEALING SECTION 20-1-250 RELATING TO APPLICANTS UNDER THE AGE OF CONSENT AND THE CONSENT OF RELATIVE OR GUARDIAN; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 20-1-260 RELATING TO PROOF OF AGE REQUIRED OF A MINOR APPLICANT.
smin-0044mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 26 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 50-21-107 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT OWNERS OF WATERCRAFT OF MORE THAN SEVENTY HORSEPOWER MUST CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE OF AT LEAST FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS OF COVERAGE PER OCCURRENCE, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE COLLECTION OF FINES.
smin-0043mw25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 27 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-140-10 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A WOMAN MAY HAVE AN ABORTION PRIOR TO THE VIABILITY OF HER EMBRYO OR FETUS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH A WOMAN MAY HAVE AN ABORTION AFTER THE VIABILITY OF HER FETUS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROCESS THROUGH WHICH A MINOR MAY HAVE AN ABORTION, TO PROVIDE THAT ASSISTIVE REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES AND CONTRACEPTIVES SHALL BE AVAILABLE IN SOUTH CAROLINA, TO PROVIDE THAT PREGNANT WOMEN ARE ENTITLED TO QUALITY PRENATAL AND POSTNATAL HEALTHCARE, AND TO EXPAND MEDICAID TO FACILITATE THE DELIVERY OF QUALITY PRENATAL AND POSTNATAL HEALTHCARE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-37, RELATING TO THE PRACTICE OF TELEMEDICINE, SO AS TO PERMIT DOCTORS TO PRESCRIBE ABORTION INDUCING DRUGS VIA TELEMEDICINE; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-48 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT HEALTH INSURANCE POLICIES THAT PROVIDE PREGNANCY AND CHILD BIRTH COVERAGE MUST ALSO OFFER COVERAGE FOR ABORTIONS AND RELATED SERVICES AND MEDICAL PROCEDURES INTENDED TO PERMANENTLY PREVENT PREGNANCY INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, TUBAL LIGATION, HYSTERECTOMY, AND VASECTOMY; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-49 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT HEALTH INSURANCE POLICIES MUST OFFER COVERAGE FOR ASSISTIVE REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-32-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH EDUCATION MEANS AGE APPROPRIATE, UNBIASED, COMPREHENSIVE, AND MEDICALLY ACCURATE INSTRUCTION, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE THAT ABSTINENCE EDUCATION CAN BE TAUGHT BUT NOT TAUGHT AS THE PRIMARY OR ONLY WAY TO PREVENT PREGNANCY; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-32-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ABSTINENCE FROM SEX BEFORE MARRIAGE CAN BE ENCOURAGED AS A WAY TO PREVENT PREGNANCY; AND TO REPEAL CHAPTER 41, TITLE 44 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE, RELATING TO ABORTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 28 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto and Reichenbach: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-390 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE, DEFINE TERMS, AND ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO ADD THE OFFENSE OF OBSCENE VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE TO THE SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 29 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto and Reichenbach: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-375, RELATING TO THE DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO THE DISSEMINATION OF HARMFUL MATERIAL TO MINORS, SO AS TO DEFINE IDENTIFIABLE MINOR AND MORPHED IMAGE AS AN OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-395, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-405, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-15-410, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF THIRD DEGREE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR, SO AS TO INCLUDE MORPHED IMAGES OF IDENTIFIABLE CHILDREN AS AN OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-430, RELATING TO SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY, SO AS TO INCLUDE THOSE GUILTY OF CRIMINAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR IN THE FIRST, SECOND, OR THIRD DEGREE AS A TIER II OFFENDER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 23-3-462, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 30 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto and Reichenbach: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-26-110, RELATING TO YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION TEACHER TRAINING, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE TRAINING OF INDIVIDUALS EMPLOYED IN A KINDERGARTEN THROUGH TWELFTH GRADE SCHOOL OR INSTITUTION OF HIGHTER EDUCATION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 31 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto and Reichenbach: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-375, RELATING TO STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS AND CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE INCLUSION OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS SERVING KINDERGARTEN THROUGH TWELFTH GRADE, AND TO PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF DELIVERY OF INFORMATION FOR SCHOOLS THAT DO NOT ISSUE IDENTIFICATION CARDS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 32 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Leber and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "PREGNANCY RESOURCE ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3383 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A TAX CREDIT FOR VOLUNTARY CASH CONTRIBUTIONS MADE TO A PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER OR CRISIS PREGNANCY CENTER AND TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR THE CREDIT.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 33 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-771, RELATING TO VOTING BY HANDICAPPED AND ELDERLY ELECTORS WHO CANNOT ENTER THE POLLING PLACE OR CANNOT STAND IN LINE TO VOTE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ELECTOR MAY CHOOSE A PERSON TO REMAIN IN THE VEHICLE WHILE THE ELECTOR COMPLETES HIS BALLOT; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-780, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTERS WHO MAY RECEIVE ASSISTANCE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A HANDICAPPED OR ELDERLY PERSON VOTING PURSUANT TO SECTION 7-13-771 IS ENTITLED TO ASSISTANCE WHEN VOTING; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-180, RELATING TO PROCEDURE FOR REGISTRATION WHEN QUALIFICATION IS COMPLETED AFTER CLOSING BOOKS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO HAS NOT ATTAINED THE AGE OF EIGHTEEN YEARS BEFORE THE CLOSING OF THE BOOKS OF REGISTRATION PRECEDING ANY ELECTION, INCLUDING PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY ELECTIONS, BUT ATTAINS THAT AGE BEFORE THE NEXT ENSUING ELECTION MAY REGISTER VOTE ELECTRONICALLY PURSUANT TO SECTION 7-5-185 OR BY APPEARING BEFORE HIS COUNTY BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 34 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 2-65-70, RELATING TO THE RECOVERY OF INDIRECT COSTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN PROVISIONS DO NOT APPLY TO NONRESEARCH GRANTS FOR PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING THAT SUPPORT THE MISSION OF ANOTHER STATE AGENCY, INSTITUTION, OR UNIT OF GOVERNMENT.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 35 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Grooms and Rice: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 7, ARTICLE VI OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS OF THIS STATE, SO AS TO DELETE THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL FROM THE LIST OF CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS AND PROVIDE THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL PROVIDE BY LAW THE DUTIES OF THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL; PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 12, ARTICLE IV OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, RELATING TO DISABILITY OF THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO REMOVE THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL AS AN OFFICER WHO, ALONG WITH OTHER OFFICERS, MAY CAUSE THE GOVERNOR TO BE REMOVED FROM OFFICE; AND PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 13, ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, RELATING TO BONDED INDEBTEDNESS OF STATE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE GOVERNOR PERFORM THE FORMER DUTIES OF THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 36 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-10, RELATING TO VOTING PRECINCTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE POLLING PLACES FOR THE VOTING PRECINCTS TO BE ESTABLISHED BY THE COUNTY BOARDS OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH CERTAIN CRITERIA; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-710, RELATING TO A REPORT BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION OF POLLING PRECINCTS WITH GREATER THAN ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED REGISTERED ELECTORS, SO AS TO REVISE THE PRECINCTS THAT MUST BE LISTED IN THE REPORT; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-720, RELATING TO THE NOTICE TO PERSONS WHOSE REGISTRATION IS TRANSFERRED, SO AS TO CONFORM THE SECTION TO AMENDMENTS TO SECTION 7-7-710; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-910, RELATING TO ALTERNATIVE POLLING PLACES, SO AS TO REVISE THE NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES WHEN AN ALTERNATIVE POLLING PLACE IS SELECTED; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-920, RELATING TO PLACES WHERE ELECTORS SHALL VOTE IN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A CITY OR TOWN WITH A POPULATION UNDER THREE THOUSAND TO VOTE AT ONE POLLING PLACE IN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-1000, RELATING TO POOLING PRECINCTS IN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE SECTION ONLY APPLIES TO ELECTIONS CONDUCTED BY MUNICIPAL ELECTION COMMISSIONS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 7-7-730, RELATING TO THE DIVISION OF PRECINCTS HAVING MORE THAN 750 ELECTORS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 37 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 5-15-45 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXPIRATION OF THE TERMS OF OFFICE FOR CERTAIN MUNICIPAL OFFICEHOLDERS; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-50, RELATING TO THE TIME FOR MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTIONS BE HELD ONLY ON CERTAIN ENUMERATED DATES; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-100, RELATING TO THE FUNCTIONS, POWERS AND DUTIES OF MUNICIPAL ELECTION COMMISSIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE MUNICIPAL ELECTION COMMISSIONS CERTIFY RESULTS NOT LATER THAN THREE DAYS FOLLOWING AN ELECTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-120, RELATING TO MUNICIPAL ELECTION RESULTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A CANDIDATE WHO IS DECLARED ELECTED BY CERTIFICATION OF THE ELECTION RESULTS HAS THE RIGHT TO TAKE THE OATH OF OFFICE AND TO PERFORM THE DUTIES OF THE OFFICE PENDING THE OUTCOME OF A CONTEST; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-130, RELATING TO PROCEDURES FOR CONTESTING THE RESULTS OF AN ELECTION, SO AS TO REVISE THE DATE IN WHICH A WRITTEN NOTICE OF CONTEST MUST BE PROVIDED; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-140, RELATING TO APPEALS FROM DECISIONS OF MUNICIPAL ELECTION COMMISSIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE APPEALS BE GRANTED FIRST PRIORITY OF CONSIDERATION BY THE COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 5-15-145, RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY TO CONDUCT MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO UPDATE TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-3-25, RELATING TO THE DUTY OF THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO DETERMINE AND CERTIFY THE OUTCOME OF CERTAIN ELECTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO DETERMINE AND CERTIFY THE OUTCOME OF CERTAIN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-1160, RELATING TO THE REPORTING OF ELECTION RESULTS TO THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE ELECTION RESULTS TO BE REPORTED CONTINUOUSLY AND WITHOUT UNDUE DELAY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-15-420, RELATING TO THE TABULATION OF ABSENTEE BALLOTS, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE EARLY VOTING TABULATION DATA TO BE LOADED INTO THE ELECTION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AT THE SAME TIME AS ABSENTEE BALLOT TABULATION DATA.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 38 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-190, RELATING TO SPECIAL ELECTIONS TO FILL VACANCIES IN OFFICE, SO AS TO REQUIRE SPECIAL ELECTIONS TO BE HELD ONLY ON CERTAIN ENUMERATED DATES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 39 (Word version) -- Senators Williams, Hutto and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-520, RELATING TO MALICIOUS INJURY TO A TREE, HOUSE, OUTSIDE FENCE, OR FIXTURE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXCEPTION OF TRIMMING TREE LIMBS THAT ENCROACH UPON A PROPERTY LINE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 40 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "IN VITRO FERTILIZATION ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 140 TO TITLE 44 SO AS TO ADD A DEFINITION FOR "ASSISTIVE REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES" AND TO PROVIDE RELATED PROTECTIONS TO ACCESS THESE TECHNOLOGIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-100 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A FERTILIZED HUMAN EGG OR HUMAN EMBRYO OUTSIDE OF THE UTERUS OF A HUMAN BODY IS NOT CONSIDERED AN UNBORN CHILD OR ANOTHER TERM THAT CONNOTES A HUMAN BEING FOR ANY PURPOSE UNDER STATE LAW.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 41 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-32-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAM, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH EDUCATION" TO PROVIDE FOR AGE-APPROPRIATE, COMPREHENSIVE, AND MEDICALLY ACCURATE INSTRUCTION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT ABSTINENCE MAY NOT BE TAUGHT AS THE ONLY OR PRIMARY METHOD OF PREGNANCY PREVENTION AND THE PREVENTION OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-32-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAM, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "PREGNANCY PREVENTION EDUCATION" TO INCLUDE THE BENEFITS OF ABSTINENCE UNTIL MARRIAGE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-32-30, RELATING TO LOCAL SCHOOL BOARDS IMPLEMENTING THE COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAM, SO AS TO INCLUDE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND PREGNANCY PREVENTION EDUCATION IN THE CURRICULUM FOR GRADES SIX THROUGH EIGHT.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 42 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-285 SO AS TO PROVIDE HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS MUST PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR LACTATION CONSULTING BY CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTANTS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-286 SO AS TO PROVIDE HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS MUST PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR DOULA SERVICES BY CERTIFIED DOULAS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; BY ADDING SECTION 44-6-230 SO AS TO PROVIDE MEDICAID HEALTH PLANS MUST PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTING BY CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTANTS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; BY ADDING SECTION 44-6-230 SO AS TO PROVIDE MEDICAID HEALTH PLANS MUST PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR DOULA SERVICES BY CERTIFIED DOULAS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; AND TO SPECIFY THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT APPLY TO EVERY MEDICAID HEALTH PLAN, EVERY INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE CONTRACT, AND EVERY INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP HOSPITAL OR MEDICAL EXPENSE INSURANCE POLICY, PLAN, OR GROUP POLICY DELIVERED, ISSUED FOR DELIVERY, OR RENEWED IN THIS STATE ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2026.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

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

S. 43 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 7 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 15 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE "SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC EXPRESSION PROTECTION ACT," REGARDING A CAUSE OF ACTION ASSERTED IN A CIVIL ACTION BASED UPON A PERSON'S COMMUNICATION IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR THESE PROCEEDINGS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 44 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-937 SO AS TO PROVIDE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS WHO MEET CERTAIN POSTGRADUATE CLINICAL EXPERIENCE AND PRACTICE EXPERIENCE MAY PRACTICE PURSUANT ONLY TO AN ATTESTATION STATEMENT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE FUNCTIONS, LOCATIONS, AND COLLABORATION REQUIREMENTS ALLOWED UNDER THESE PRACTICE ARRANGEMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 40-47-939 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS LICENSED IN OTHER JURISDICTIONS MAY PROVIDE EMERGENCY CARE IN THIS STATE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO LIMIT THEIR LIABILITY FOR PROVIDING SUCH CARE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-10, RELATING TO THE STATE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO REVISE THE COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD TO INCLUDE TWO PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS, TO PROVIDE FOR THEIR MANNER OF APPOINTMENT AND THE FILLING OF VACANCIES, AND TO LIMIT THEIR TERMS OF SERVICE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE MEDICAL PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE VARIOUS DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-113, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING PHYSICIAN-PATIENT RELATIONSHIPS AND THE PRESCRIBING OF DRUGS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-195, RELATING TO SUPERVISING PHYSICIANS AND SCOPE OF PRACTICE GUIDELINES, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN LIMITATIONS IMPOSED ON SUPERVISING PHYSICIANS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-196, RELATING TO THE DELEGATION OF TASKS TO CERTIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANTS, SO AS TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-910, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE NECESSARY DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-915, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS STUDENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-935, RELATING TO ACTS AND DUTIES AUTHORIZED TO BE PERFORMED BY PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS, SO AS TO CLARIFY AND EXPAND THE AUTHORIZED ACTS AND DUTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-965, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR WRITING PRESCRIPTIONS FOR DRUGS, CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, AND MEDICAL DEVICES BY PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-1000, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL HOLDING OF ONESELF OUT AS A PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE LAWFUL AND UNLAWFUL USE OF CERTAIN ABBREVIATIONS INDICATIVE OF LICENSURE AS A PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-1005, RELATING TO MISCONDUCT MANDATING REVOCATION OR DENIAL OF A PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT LICENSE, SO AS TO SPECIFICALLY AUTHORIZE THE BOARD TO DISCIPLINE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS FOR MISCONDUCT, TO REVISE THE BASES FOR MISCONDUCT, AND TO PROVIDE REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO THE BOARD UPON FINDING MISCONDUCT; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-1020, RELATING TO THIRD-PARTY REIMBURSEMENT TO PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS, SO AS TO MAKE SUCH PAYMENTS MANDATORY IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE INSURANCE COMPANIES AND THIRD-PARTY PAYERS MAY NOT IMPOSE MORE RESTRICTIVE OR CONTRADICTORY PRACTICE, EDUCATION, OR COLLABORATION REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-80-120, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS TO CREATE, EXECUTE, AND SIGN POST FORMS, SO AS TO REMOVE OBSOLETE SCOPE OF PRACTICE AND SUPERVISING PHYSICIAN REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-99-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING EMERGENCY ANAPHYLAXIS TREATMENTS, SO AS TO REMOVE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-75, RELATING TO CONCUSSION PROTOCOL FOR STUDENT ATHLETES, SO AS TO INCLUDE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS AMONG PERSONS AUTHORIZED TO REMOVE STUDENT ATHLETES SUSPECTED OF HAVING SUSTAINED A CONCUSSION FROM COMPETITION, AND TO REMOVE OBSOLETE LANGUAGE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-95, RELATING TO THE PRESCRIPTION OF LIFESAVING MEDICATIONS TO BE MAINTAINED AND USED BY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 45 (Word version) -- Senators Davis and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-33-31 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD OF NURSING MAY GRANT FULL PRACTICE AUTHORITY TO ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES WHO MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA, TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS OF THE BOARD, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-33-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE PRACTICE OF NURSING, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES AND OTHER REVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-33-34, RELATING TO ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS, PRACTICE AGREEMENTS, ALLOWED MEDICAL ACTS, AND PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORITY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES AND OTHER CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-33-42, RELATING TO DELEGATION OF TASKS TO UNLICENSED ASSISTIVE PERSONNEL, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-33-110, RELATING TO GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINE OF LICENSEES, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 46 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 9 TO TITLE 41 SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN CONTRACT PROVISIONS THAT INTERFERE WITH THE PHYSICIAN-PATIENT RELATIONSHIP OR ALLOW FOR THE CORPORATE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE ARE DECLARED TO BE AGAINST PUBLIC POLICY OF THIS STATE, TO PROVIDE CERTAIN CONTRAVENING CONTRACT PROVISIONS ARE UNENFORCEABLE, TO SPECIFY CERTAIN RELATED CONTRACT PROVISIONS WHICH ARE ENFORCEABLE, AND TO PROVIDE REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 47 (Word version) -- Senators Davis and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-3440, RELATING TO THE TAX CREDIT FOR EMPLOYEE CHILDCARE PROGRAMS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM CREDIT AND TO ALLOW THE CREDIT TO BE APPLIED AGAINST OTHER TAXES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3595 SO AS TO ALLOW A TAX CREDIT FOR INDIVIDUAL TAXPAYERS THAT ARE EMPLOYED FULL-TIME AS A CHILDCARE DIRECTOR OR CHILDCARE STAFF PERSON.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 48 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO RATIFY A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA PROVIDING THAT EQUALITY OF RIGHTS UNDER THE LAW MUST NOT BE DENIED OR ABRIDGED ON ACCOUNT OF SEX.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 49 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-1-80 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A TRANSFER ON DEATH FOR REAL PROPERTY.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 50 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 42 TO CHAPTER 6, TITLE 12 SO AS TO ALLOW AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO A SCHOLARSHIP FUNDING ORGANIZATION THAT PROVIDES GRANTS FOR STUDENTS TO ATTEND CERTAIN INDEPENDENT AND HOME SCHOOLS, TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CREDIT IS CLAIMED, TO SPECIFY THE PROCESS BY WHICH CERTAIN ORGANIZATIONS AND SCHOOLS BECOME ELIGIBLE, TO SPECIFY CERTAIN INFORMATION WHICH MUST BE MADE PUBLIC, AND TO ALLOW THE STATE TREASURER AND DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO ENFORCE THE PROVISIONS OF THE CREDIT; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 12-6-3790 RELATING TO EDUCATIONAL CREDIT FOR EXCEPTIONAL NEEDS CHILDREN'S FUND.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 51 (Word version) -- Senators Davis, Grooms, Stubbs, Massey, Garrett, Sutton, Turner, Graham, Gambrell, Zell, Johnson, Rice, Campsen, Sabb, Tedder, Fernandez, Leber, Devine, Climer, Cromer, Hutto, Young, Kimbrell, Matthews, Jackson, Blackmon, Adams, Hembree, Corbin and Williams: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ENCOURAGE SANTEE COOPER TO ISSUE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TO SOLICIT PROPOSALS ON UTILIZING ASSETS ASSOCIATED WITH V.C. SUMMER UNITS 2 AND 3, AND FOR CONSIDERATIONS RELATED TO A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 52 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2930, RELATING TO OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLES WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO AMEND THE PENALTY PROVISIONS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2933, RELATING TO DRIVING WITH UNLAWFUL ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PERMIT SENTENCES OF BOTH FINES AND INCARCERATION AND TO REQUIRE CONVICTED PERSONS TO ATTEND DUI VICTIM IMPACT PANELS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2941, RELATING TO IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT PROVIDES NOTHING IN THE SECTION REQUIRES INSTALLATION OF IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES PRIOR TO CONTESTED CASE HEARINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2945, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE SECOND DEGREE, ESTABLISH PENALTIES, AND DEFINE THE TERM "MODERATE BODILY INJURY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2947, RELATING TO CHILD ENDANGERMENT, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE OFFENSES OF RECKLESS VEHICULAR HOMICIDE AND RECKLESS DRIVING AS VIOLATIONS SUBJECT TO A CHARGE OF CHILD ENDANGERMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2950, RELATING TO IMPLIED CONSENT TO TESTING FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES, PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED, AND TEST SITES THAT CAN BE USED WHEN PERSONS ARE SUBJECTED TO TESTS FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, TO PROVIDE THAT LABORATORY TECHNICIANS, PHLEBOTOMISTS, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS MAY OBTAIN BLOOD OR URINE SAMPLES, TO REVISE THE PERIOD OF SUSPENSIONS OF DRIVING PRIVILEGES THAT MUST BE IMPOSED FOR FAILURE IF PERSONS REFUSE TO BE TESTED AND IF PERSONS HAVE CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, TO REVISE THE PROVISION THAT ESTABLISHES ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, AND TO DELETE THE PROVISION RELATING TO PERSONS INCAPABLE OF REFUSING TO CONSENT TO TESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2951, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OF LICENSES FOR REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO TESTING OR FOR CERTAIN LEVELS OF ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED LICENSE SUSPENSIONS MAY INSTALL IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICES WITHIN THIRTY DAYS AND OBTAIN TEMPORARY DRIVERS' LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS WHO REFUSE TO SUBMIT TO CHEMICAL TESTS MUST HAVE THEIR DRIVERS' LICENSES SUSPENDED FOR ONE YEAR FOR A FIRST OFFENSE, AND TO PROVIDE INCREASED SUSPENSIONS FOR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES, OR IF PERSONS TAKE THE TESTS AND REGISTER ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS OF OVER FIFTEEN ONE-HUNDREDTH OF ONE PERCENT OR MORE, THAT THEIR LICENSES ARE SUSPENDED FOR TWO MONTHS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2953, RELATING TO INCIDENT SITES AND BREATH TEST SITES FOR VIDEO RECORDING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION MAY BE CONSTRUED TO COMPEL OR AUTHORIZE A DISMISSAL OF A DUI OFFENSE IF THE OFFICERS SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLY WITH THE STATUTE AND THAT MOTIONS FOR SUPPRESSION OF EVIDENCE UNDER THE STATUTE MUST BE MADE PRIOR TO JEOPARDY ATTACHING; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2920, RELATING TO RECKLESS DRIVING, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSES OF FELONY RECKLESS DRIVING WITH GREAT BODILY INJURY AND RECKLESS DRIVING RESULTING IN MODERATE BODILY INJURY AND TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-2960 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS CONVICTED OF FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE CAUSING THE DEATH OR DISABILITY OF PARENTS OR GUARDIANS MAY BE ORDERED TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT AS RESTITUTION FOR THE DURATION OF ANY PROBATION ORDERED, PERFORM COMMUNITY SERVICE, OR BOTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-286, RELATING TO THE SUSPENSION OF LICENSES OR PERMITS OR THE DENIAL OF ISSUANCE OF LICENSES OR PERMITS TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE WHO DRIVE MOTOR VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS ISSUED NOTICES OF SUSPENSIONS MAY OBTAIN TEMPORARY LICENSES WITH IGNITION INTERLOCK RESTRICTIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-400, RELATING TO THE SURRENDER OF LICENSES, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT NOTHING IN THIS SECTION REQUIRES PERSONS OBTAIN IGNITION INTERLOCKS UNLESS THE OFFENSES ARE ALCOHOL RELATED.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 53 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA COMPASSIONATE CARE ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 20 TO CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SALE OF CANNABIS PRODUCTS FOR THERAPEUTIC USE AND THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH A SALE CAN OCCUR; BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-3910 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A DRIVER OF A MOTOR VEHICLE TO VAPORIZE CANNABIS PRODUCTS AS DEFINED IN SECTION 44-53-2010 WHILE OPERATING THE MOTOR VEHICLE AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTIONS 44-53-1810, 44-53-1820, AND 44-53-1830, ALL RELATING TO "JULIAN'S LAW," SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY REPEALING ARTICLE 4 OF CHAPTER 53, TITLE 44 RELATING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES THERAPEUTIC RESEARCH; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 54 (Word version) -- Senators Martin and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "MEDICAL INFORMED CONSENT ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 16-17-780 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON, CORPORATION, HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTION, OR THE STATE TO IMPLEMENT A VACCINE MANDATE AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY ADDING SECTION 41-1-55 SO AS TO PROHIBIT EMPLOYERS FROM TAKING ADVERSE ACTION AGAINST INDIVIDUALS WHO DECLINE TO RECEIVE A VACCINE AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-43-86, RELATING TO FACILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PHARMACIES AND PRESCRIPTION DRUG ORDERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH A PHARMACIST MAY REFUSE TO FILL A PRESCRIPTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-1-100, RELATING TO ASSISTANCE FROM PEACE AND HEALTH OFFICERS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT THE PUBLIC SAFETY AUTHORITY MAY REQUEST ASSISTANCE FROM THE STATE NATIONAL GUARD IN ENFORCING QUARANTINE MEASURES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-130, RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS OF "GENE THERAPY" AND "VACCINE" AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-510, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS AND ISOLATION OR QUARANTINE OF PERSONS REFUSING EXAMINATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY ISOLATE A SYMPTOMATIC PERSON OR PERSON WHO HAS BEEN EXPOSED TO THE CONTAGIOUS DISEASE FOR WHICH A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY HAS BEEN DECLARED; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-520, RELATING TO VACCINATIONS AND TREATMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MUST MONITOR THE SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF VACCINES, TESTS, AND TREATMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-530, RELATING TO ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE OF INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS, AS WELL AS PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE, SO AS TO PROVIDE A TIME LIMIT OF TWENTY-ONE DAYS FOR A QUARANTINED ASYMPTOMATIC PERSON; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-540, RELATING TO ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE PROCEDURES, SO AS TO CHANGE PROCEDURES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 44-4-570, RELATING TO EMERGENCY POWERS REGARDING LICENSING OF HEALTH PERSONNEL, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT STATE HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS ASSIST IN THE PERFORMANCE OF VACCINATIONS AS A CONDITION OF LICENSURE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 55 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 24-13-150, RELATING TO EARLY RELEASE, DISCHARGE, COMMUNITY SUPERVISION, LIMITATIONS, FORFEITURE OF CREDITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A REDUCTION IN THE SENTENCE OF AN INMATE CONVICTED OF CERTAIN "NO PAROLE OFFENSES" UPON SATISFYING CERTAIN CONDITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 24-13-210, RELATING TO GOOD BEHAVIOR CREDITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A REDUCTION IN THE SENTENCE OF AN INMATE CONVICTED OF CERTAIN "NO PAROLE OFFENSES" UPON THE INMATE'S SATISFYING CERTAIN CONDITIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 24-13-230, RELATING TO THE REDUCTION OF A SENTENCE FOR PRODUCTIVE DUTY ASSIGNMENT OR PARTICIPATION IN AN ACADEMIC, TECHNICAL, OR VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A REDUCTION IN THE SENTENCE OF AN INMATE CONVICTED OF CERTAIN "NO PAROLE OFFENSES" UPON THE INMATE'S SATISFYING CERTAIN CONDITIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Corrections and Penology.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Corrections and Penology.

S. 56 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 27-37-100, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF VERDICT FOR PLAINTIFF, SO AS TO SEAL THE EJECTMENT OF THE PLAINTIFF FROM PUBLIC RECORD.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 57 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-2410; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-510, RELATING TO MALICIOUS INJURY TO ANIMALS AND OTHER PERSONAL PROPERTY, SO AS TO REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR MALICIOUS INJURY TO PERSONAL PROPERTY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-11-520, RELATING TO MALICIOUS INJURY TO A TREE, HOUSE, OUTSIDE FENCE, OR FIXTURE AND TRESPASS UPON REAL PROPERTY, SO AS TO REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR MALICIOUS INJURY TO REAL PROPERTY AND TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR PERSONS WHO MALICIOUSLY INJURE PERSONAL OR REAL PROPERTY OF ANOTHER PERSON WITH THE INTENT TO ASSAULT, INTIMIDATE, OR THREATEN THAT PERSON.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 58 (Word version) -- Senator Allen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-20-50, RELATING TO STATE CONTRIBUTION LEVEL REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH TEACHER TO BE PAID THE NATIONAL AVERAGE TEACHER SALARY INSTEAD OF THE SOUTHEASTERN AVERAGE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 59 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-440, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WITHOUT LICENSE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE AND MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Transportation

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

S. 60 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett and Blackmon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-5-15, RELATING TO SECURING DEPOSITS OF FUNDS BY LOCAL ENTITIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE PROVISIONS CONCERNING CREDIT UNIONS AND THE NATIONAL CREDIT UNION SHARE INSURANCE FUND.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 61 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett, Hutto and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ARTICLE 1 OF CHAPTER 23, TITLE 50, RELATING TO THE TITLING OF WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTORS, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT OUTBOARD MOTORS BE TITLED; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-23-345, RELATING TO A TEMPORARY CERTIFICATE OF NUMBER, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 50-23-375, RELATING TO A VALIDATION DECAL, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-3210, RELATING TO TAX NOTICES FOR BOATS AND BOAT MOTORS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 23, TITLE 50 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGISTRATION OF WATERCRAFT AND OUTBOARD MOTORS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 62 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Rice and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-110, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-115, RELATING TO THE STANDARD APPLICATION PROCESS, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS AND SCHOOLS SEEKING TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-120, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATION OF FUND, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE K-12 EDUCATION LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-125, RELATING TO FUNDS TO CREATE, OVERSEE, AND THE ADMINISTER PROGRAM, SUSPENSION OF ACCOUNTS, UNUSED FUNDS, AND TERMINATION OF SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-130, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT'S PROGRAM; NOTIFICATION, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-135, RELATING TO LIMITATIONS ON SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO PROVIDE LIMITATIONS ON THE NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS THAT MAY BE AWARDED; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-140, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION APPROVAL PROCESS FOR EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDER MUST CERTIFY ANNUALLY TO THE DEPARTMENT THAT IT MEETS ALL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-145, RELATING TO PROCEDURES TO INFORM STUDENTS AND THEIR PARENTS OF ELIGIBILITY AND APPROVED EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-150, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS, DEPARTMENT, AND EDUCATION OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SURETY BOND IS REQUIRED OF EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS WHO EXCEED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS IN QUALIFYING EXPENSES AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-160, RELATING TO THE K-12 EDUCATION LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP REVIEW PANEL, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ITS COMPOSITION AND PURPOSES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-165, RELATING TO STUDENT TRANSFER POLICY, SO AS TO CLARIFY STUDENT TRANSFER REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-170, RELATING TO IMMEDIATE PARTICIPATION IN A SPORT BY A TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES ; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-150-350, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 63 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-11-165, RELATING TO SALARY AND FRINGE BENEFIT SURVEY FOR AGENCY HEADS, LIMITS ON SALARIES OF AGENCY EMPLOYEES AND PRESIDENTS OF A TECHNICAL COLLEGE, AGENCY HEAD SALARY ADJUSTMENTS, AND NEW MEMBERS OF AGENCY GOVERNING BOARDS, SO AS TO REMOVE THE MAXIMUM LIMITS OF COMPENSATION FOR AN EMPLOYEE OF AN AGENCY REVIEWED BY THE AGENCY HEAD SALARY COMMISSION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 64 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-1172 SO AS TO ALLOW A SOUTH CAROLINA INCOME TAX DEDUCTION OF ALL MILITARY RETIREMENT OR FIRST RESPONDER RETIREMENT INCOME; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-6-1170, RELATING TO RETIREMENT INCOME DEDUCTION FROM TAXABLE INCOME FOR INDIVIDUAL, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 65 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-280, RELATING TO WIRELESS ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES AND THE ADOPTION OF POLICIES ADDRESSING STUDENT AND EMPLOYEE POSSESSION, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF A PERSONAL WIRELESS ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICE IN CLASSROOMS DURING PERIODS OF ACADEMIC INSTRUCTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

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

S. 66 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-105 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ANY INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION, BODY, OR ENTITY THAT A PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT JOINS MUST PROVIDE IN THEIR CONSTITUTION, RULES OR POLICIES A RANGE OF SANCTIONS FOR VIOLATIONS; TO GUARANTEE THAT INDEPENDENT OR CHARTER SCHOOLS ARE AFFORDED THE SAME RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES ENJOYED BY ALL MEMBERS; TO GUARANTEE A HOME SCHOOL ATHLETIC TEAM MAY NOT BE DENIED ACCESS TO PRESEASON AND REGULAR SEASON INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS; TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF NAME, IMAGE, LIKENESS, OR OTHER COMPENSATION FOR PLAY; TO ESTABLISH A PENALTY FREE TRANSFER WINDOW TWICE A YEAR AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR OTHER TRANSFERS; TO ESTABLISH A DIRECT AND IMMEDIATE APPEAL PROCESS TO A PANEL CONSISTING OF THIRTEEN MEMBERS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC SCHOOL MAY NOT AFFILIATE OR BECOME A MEMBER OF AN ASSOCIATION, BODY OR ENTITY THAT FAILS TO INCLUDE THESE ITEMS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-39-160, RELATING TO INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES, REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION, MONITORING, PARTICIPATION BY HANDICAPPED, AND WAIVERS, SO AS TO THAT THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION'S DETERMINATIONS OF ELIGIBILITY UNDER THIS SECTION ARE BINDING ON A INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 67 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-8-10(17), RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, 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(1), RELATING TO MEMBERSHIP IN SYSTEM AND CESSATION OF MEMBERSHIP, SO AS TO ALLOW THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SERVING ON JULY 1, 2024 TO ELECT TO BECOME A MEMBER.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 68 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 27-30-180 SO AS TO PROVIDE A HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION THE ABILITY TO ADOPT AND ENFORCE RULES RELATING TO POLITICAL SIGNS PROVIDED THOSE RULES MEET CRITERIA DESIGNATED BY THIS SECTION .
sedu-0001db25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 69 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 27-40-120, RELATING TO THE PURPOSES AND RULES OF CONSTRUCTION FOR THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT, SO AS TO EXEMPT CERTAIN TENANCIES FROM THE ACT; BY ADDING SECTION 45-2-65 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE AN INNKEEPER TO REQUEST ASSISTANCE FROM LAW ENFORCEMENT TO EJECT A PERSON AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON EJECTED FROM A CAMPGROUND HAS TEN DAYS TO MAKE A CLAIM FOR PROPERTY LEFT AT THE TIME OF EJECTMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 27-37-200 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PROPERTY OWNER MAY REQUEST FROM THE SHERIFF IMMEDIATE REMOVAL OF A PERSON UNLAWFULLY OCCUPYING A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION PROVIDED CERTAIN CONDITIONS ARE MET; BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-785 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO UNLAWFULLY DETAINS OR OCCUPIES OR TRESPASSES UPON A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING AND WHO INTENTIONALLY DAMAGES THE DWELLING CAUSING MORE THAN ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS IN DAMAGE IS GUILTY OF A FELONY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-790 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO LISTS OR ADVERTISES RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY FOR SALE KNOWING THAT THE SELLER HAS NO LEGAL AUTHORITY OR RENTS KNOWING THE PERSON HAS NO LAWFUL OWNERSHIP IN THE PROPERTY IS GUILTY OF A FELONY; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-11-795 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO KNOWINGLY PRESENTS TO ANOTHER PERSON A FALSE DOCUMENT PURPORTING TO BE A VALID LEASE AGREEMENT, DEED, OR OTHER INSTRUMENT IS GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 70 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-710 SO AS TO ENHANCE LOCAL SCHOOL GOVERNANCE; BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-720 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-730 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ADOPT AND REVISE AS NECESSARY A MODEL CODE OF ETHICS FOR LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS, AND REQUIRE THAT A LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD SHALL ADOPT A LOCAL CODE OF ETHICS AT A REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AND SUBMIT A COPY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION WITHIN THIRTY DAYS OF ADOPTION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-19-45, RELATING TO MANDATORY ORIENTATION FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARDS OF TRUSTEES AND COUNTY BOARDS OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO ADOPT A MODEL TRAINING PROGRAM, WHICH MUST INCLUDE A LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAM.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 71 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-607 SO AS TO CREATE AN ENHANCED PENALTY FOR CONVICTIONS BY PERSONS UNDER SECTION 16-3-600 AGAINST LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS DURING THE PERFORMANCE OF THEIR OFFICIAL DUTIES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 72 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-330 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS RELATING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF INTIMATE IMAGES; BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-332 SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO INTENTIONALLY DISSEMINATE AN INTIMATE IMAGE OR A DIGITALLY FORGED INTIMATE IMAGE OF ANOTHER PERSON WITHOUT EFFECTIVE CONSENT OF THE DEPICTED PERSON; AND BY ADDING SECTION 16-15-333 SO AS TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR THE UNLAWFUL DISSEMINATION OF INTIMATE IMAGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 73 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-605 SO AS TO CREATE AN ENHANCED PENALTY FOR CONVICTIONS BY PERSONS UNDER SECTION 16-3-600 AGAINST EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONALS DURING THE PERFORMANCE OF THEIR OFFICIAL DUTIES.
sedu-0009db25.docx

Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 74 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-13-142 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, A CIRCUIT SOLICITOR, OR THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO REQUIRE THE DISCLOSURE OF ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER RELATED RECORDS BY A PROVIDER OF AN ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION SERVICE OR REMOTE COMPUTING SERVICE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 75 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 7-13-353 SO AS TO REQUIRE A DECLARATION BY A CANDIDATE OF FINES OWED TO THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, SENATE ETHICS COMMITTEE, OR HOUSE ETHICS COMMITTEE, AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE THAT A CANDIDATE MAY NOT BE PLACED ON A BALLOT UNLESS THE CANDIDATE IS ENROLLED IN A PAYMENT PLAN FOR THE OUTSTANDING FINES AND IS NOT IN DEFAULT; AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ONE TIME REDUCTION OF OUTSTANDING FINE BALANCES OVER FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS TO BE REDUCED TO FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 76 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-230, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-240, RELATING TO USE OF OR THREAT OF PHYSICAL VIOLENCE BY CRIMINAL GANG MEMBERS AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH UNLAWFUL CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-245 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADMISSIBILITY OF CRIMINAL GANG AND CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY EVIDENCE DURING A TRIAL OR PROCEEDING; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-8-250, RELATING TO PREVENTING WITNESSES OR VICTIMS FROM TESTIFYING AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE A MECHANISM TO ABATE A PUBLIC NUISANCE OF REAL PROPERTY USED BY A CRIMINAL GANG ; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-275 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADMISSIBILITY IN A CRIMINAL PROCEEDING OF THE ACCUSED'S COMMISSION OF CRIMINAL GANG ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-520 SO AS TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE DEFINITIONS FOR THE ANTI RACKETEERING ACT; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-530 SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO ENGAGE IN RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-540 SO AS TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR ENGAGING IN RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-550 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CIRCUIT COURT MAY ENJOIN VIOLATIONS OF THE ANTI-RACKETEERING ACT BY ISSUING APPROPRIATE ORDERS; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-560 SO AS TO ESTABLISH JURISDICTION FOR RACKETEERING ACTIVITY; BY ADDING SECTION 16-8-570 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM DISCLOSURE OF INFORMANTS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 14-7-1630, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF JURIES, NOTIFICATION TO IMPANEL JURIES, POWERS AND DUTIES OF IMPANELING AND PRESIDING JUDGES, THE TRANSFER OF INCOMPLETE INVESTIGATIONS, EFFECTIVE DATES AND NOTICE REQUIREMENTS WITH RESPECT TO ORDERS OF JUDGE, AND APPEALS, SO AS TO ADD THE CRIME OF RACKETEERING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE STATE GRAND JURY.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 77 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Grooms and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-19-85 SO AS TO PROMOTE PUBLIC ACCESS TO SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS BY REQUIRING SCHOOL BOARDS TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES THAT PROVIDE ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF SUCH MEETINGS AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT MUST BE IMPLEMENTED BY JULY 1, 2025.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 78 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Young and Zell: 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 RECEIVE CREDIT FOR PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 79 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1115 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PILOT PROGRAM TO PERMIT PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO HIRE NONCERTIFIED TEACHERS IN A RATIO UP TO TEN PERCENT OF ITS ENTIRE TEACHING STAFF, TO PROVIDE ACADEMIC, EVALUATION, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, TO FURTHER THE PROGRAM FOR ANNUAL PROGRAM REPORTING, AND TO PROVIDE NONCERTIFIED TEACHER REGISTRATION AND CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 80 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-150-70, RELATING TO TEMPORARY REGULATIONS, INITIAL AVAILABILITY OF TICKETS, AND ALTERNATE USE FOR NONWINNING TICKETS, SO AS TO ALLOW PAYMENT BY DEBIT CARD.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 81 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-7-262(A), RELATING TO MINIMUM RESIDENT-STAFF RATIOS FOR NURSING HOMES, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE DIVISION OF MEMORY CARE FACILITIES AND ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES AND TO REQUIRE SUFFICIENT STAFF TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE CARE FOR THE RESIDENTS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 82 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 10-1-169 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE UNITED STATES FLAG AND THE STATE FLAG SHALL BE DISPLAYED AT ALL POLLING LOCATIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 83 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-440 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE PRESIDENT OR CHANCELLOR OF A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING TO CLOSE THE INSTITUTION TO PROTECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ITS EMPLOYEES AND STUDENTS FROM HAZARDOUS WEATHER OR EMERGENCY CONDITIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 84 (Word version) -- Senators Young and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1312, RELATING TO CAMPAIGN BANK ACCOUNTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY CANDIDATES SHALL BE DEPOSITED INTO AN INTEREST ON CAMPAIGN ACCOUNT KNOWN AS AN "IOCA", TO PROVIDE THAT AN IOCA SHALL BE ESTABLISHED WITH AN ELIGIBLE INSTITUTION THAT VOLUNTARILY CHOOSES TO PARTICIPATE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE RATE OF INTEREST OR DIVIDENDS PAYABLE ON ANY IOCA, TO PROVIDE THAT ONE PERCENT OF ALL CONTRIBUTIONS DEPOSITED INTO AN IOCA SHALL BE REMITTED TO BENEFIT THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE FUNDS REMITTED TO THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION SHALL BE USED BY THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION TO CREATE A POSITION OR POSITIONS WITHIN ITS EMPLOY TO CHECK AND CONFIRM THE COMPLETENESS OF CANDIDATE FILINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-320, RELATING TO DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THOSE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE RECEIVING, ADMINISTERING, INVESTING, DISBURSING, AND SEPARATELY ACCOUNTING FOR FUNDS REMITTED TO IT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-340, RELATING TO ANNUAL REPORTS OF THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION SHALL INCLUDE IN ITS REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE GOVERNOR THE AMOUNT OF FUNDS IT HAS RECEIVED FROM IOCAS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 85 (Word version) -- Senators Young and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL ENTERPRISE AND RACKETEERING SUPPRESSION ACT"; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 3 OF CHAPTER 8, TITLE 16, RELATING TO THE CRIMINAL GANG PREVENTION ACT, SO AS TO RETITLE THE ARTICLE, REVISE THE DEFINITIONS FOR PURPOSES OF THE ARTICLE, AND RESTRUCTURE THE ARTICLE AND THE OFFENSES AND PENALTIES CONTAINED WITHIN IT; AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 8, TITLE 16 SO AS TO CREATE ANTI-RACKETEERING PROVISIONS TO COMPLIMENT THE REVISED CRIMINAL ENTERPRISE SUPPRESSION ARTICLE, DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, AND CREATE VARIOUS RACKETEERING OFFENSES AND ESTABLISH PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 86 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-26-42 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO HOLDS A PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION FOR TWENTY OR MORE YEARS AND WHO TEACHES IN THIS STATE FOR TWENTY OR MORE YEARS MAY RENEW ANNUALLY THE CERTIFICATE BY PARTICIPATING IN REQUIRED DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITHOUT HAVING TO SATISFY ANY ADDITIONAL RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THESE PROVISIONS APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING THE PROVISIONS OF THE CERTIFICATE RENEWAL PLAN DEVELOPED BY THE OFFICE OF TEACHER CERTIFICATION OR ANOTHER PROVISION OF LAW.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 87 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-3-20, RELATING TO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A HAND-COUNT AUDIT BE CONDUCTED PUBLICLY.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 88 (Word version) -- Senator Young: 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.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 89 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-100, RELATING TO SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY BASE TASK FORCE, SO AS TO RENAME THE TASK FORCE THE SOUTH CAROLINA MILITARY AFFAIRS ADVISORY COUNCIL, TO REVISE THE COUNCIL'S MISSON, TO INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP ON THE COUNCIL, TO MANDATE THAT THE COUNCIL MEETS AT LEAST ONE TIME EACH CALENDAR YEAR, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

S. 90 (Word version) -- Senators Young and Bennett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA HANDS-FREE AND DISTRACTED DRIVING ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-3890, RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL USE OF A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICE WHILE OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH IT IS UNLAWFUL TO USE A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICE, TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING AND PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL REVISIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-720, RELATING TO POINTS THAT MAY BE ASSESSED AGAINST A PERSON'S DRIVING RECORD FOR MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A SECOND OR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING IS A TWO-POINT VIOLATION, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SHALL NOTIFY MOTORISTS OF THE HANDS-FREE REQUIREMENTS AT CERTAIN POINTS ALONG THE STATE'S INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

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

S. 91 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1308, RELATING TO THE FILING OF CERTIFIED CAMPAIGN REPORTS BY CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES, SO AS TO REQUIRE CANDIDATES AND COMMITTEES TO FILE CAMPAIGN BANK ACCOUNT STATEMENTS FOR THE PREVIOUS QUARTER'S CAMPAIGN REPORT CONTEMPORANEOUSLY WITH THEIR CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 92 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 22-1-10, RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF MAGISTRATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A MAGISTRATE MAY SERVE IN HOLDOVER STATUS FOR NO MORE THAN FOURTEEN DAYS AT THE END OF HIS TERM, TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR MAY APPOINT A TEMPORARY MAGISTRATE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT ANY MAGISTRATE OR MAGISTRATE CANDIDATE WHO HAS BEEN REPRIMANDED BY THE SUPREME COURT OR ANY OTHER DISCIPLINARY AUTHORITY MAY NOT BE APPOINTED OR REAPPOINTED UNLESS APPROVED BY A MAJORITY OF THE SENATE AFTER THE SENATE IS INFORMED OF THE REPRIMAND OR DISCIPLINARY ACTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 93 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-410, RELATING TO AN ELECTION TO COME UNDER THE NATURAL GAS RATE STABILIZATION ACT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT AN ELECTION SHALL REMAIN IN EFFECT UNTIL THE NEXT GENERAL RATE PROCEEDING; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-415, RELATING TO THE DURATION OF AN ELECTION AND THE WITHDRAWAL OF A REQUEST TO COME UNDER THE NATURAL GAS RATE STABILIZATION ACT, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ELECTION BY A UTILITY UNDER THE NATURAL GAS RATE STABILIZATION ACT SHALL REMAIN IN EFFECT FOR FIVE YEARS AND THAT THE UTILITY MAY OPT OUT; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-420, RELATING TO THE CONTENTS OF AN ORDER, SO AS TO REMOVE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS FOR FIGURES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-450, RELATING TO THE REVIEW OF REPORTS AND PROPOSED TARIFF RATE ADJUSTMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF SHALL PROPOSE CHANGES TO RATE DESIGN; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-5-470, RELATING TO THE REVIEW OF INITIAL ORDERS, SCOPE, AND RULE TO SHOW CAUSE FOR WHY A FULL RATE PROCEEDING SHOULD NOT BE INITIATED, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE RIGHT OF REGULATORY STAFF TO FILE CERTAIN ACTIONS IS NOT LIMITED; AND BY ADDING SECTION 58-5-416 SO AS TO PROVIDE A LIMITATION ON THE DURATION OF ELECTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 94 (Word version) -- Senators Sabb and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION BANK ACT"; AND BY ADDING CHAPTER 59 TO TITLE 11 SO AS TO CREATE THE "SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION BANK", TO ESTABLISH A GOVERNING BOARD, TO PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS OF THE BANK, TO FUND THE BANK, TO PROVIDE LIABILITY PROTECTIONS, TO PROVIDE FOR DEPOSITS, TO PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS, TO PROVIDE FOR LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD FUNDING REQUEST REQUIREMENTS, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 95 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A JOINT RESOLUTION ESTABLISH A SPECIFIED PROCEDURE FOR THE ENACTMENT OR REPEAL OF LAWS BY INITIATIVE PETITION AND REFERENDUM, TO AMEND THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, BY ADDING SECTION 1B TO ARTICLE III SO AS TO PROVIDE THE NUMBER OF SIGNATURES REQUIRED AND THE TIME PERIOD OVER WHICH THE SIGNATURES MUST BE COLLECTED, TO REQUIRE IN AN INITIATIVE THE AMOUNT AND SOURCE OF REVENUE FOR IMPLEMENTATION, TO PROVIDE THOSE MATTERS WHICH MAY NOT BE THE SUBJECT OF AN INITIATIVE PETITION, AND TO REQUIRE A CERTIFIED INITIATIVE TO BE FILED WITH EACH BRANCH OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, WHICH BY MAJORITY VOTE MAY ADOPT, AMEND, OR REJECT THE INITIATIVE; TO PROVIDE THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, TO BE PLACED ON THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTION FOR REPRESENTATIVES; TO AMEND THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, BY ADDING SECTION 4 TO ARTICLE XVI SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PROCEDURE FOR AN INITIATIVE METHOD OF AMENDING THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE; AND PROVIDE THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE XVI OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, TO BE PLACED ON THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTION FOR REPRESENTATIVES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 96 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-17-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ELIGIBLE TO HOLD THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK OF COURT OF THE COMMON PLEAS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 97 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-45-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ELIGIBLE TO HOLD THE OFFICE OF COUNTY TREASURER.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 98 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-39-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE QUALIFICATIONS TO BE ELIGIBLE TO HOLD THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY AUDITOR.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 99 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 22 TO CHAPTER 3, TITLE 16 SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR PERSONS WHO COMMIT CERTAIN DELINEATED CRIMES WHEN THE VICTIM WAS INTENTIONALLY SELECTED BASED ON CERTAIN FACTORS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT VICTIMS OF A VIOLATION OF THE ARTICLE MAY BRING A CIVIL ACTION FOR DAMAGES SUSTAINED.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 100 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-292 AND SECTION 38-71-820 BOTH SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS AND OUTLINE THE APPLICABILITY AND REQUIREMENTS FOR COST SHARING FOR INSURERS; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-2270 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS AND OUTLINE THE APPLICABILITY AND REQUIREMENTS FOR COST SHARING FOR PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGERS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-2200, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING PHARMACY BENEFITS MANAGERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

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

S. 101 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-80-50, RELATING TO INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING THE REGISTRATION OF FIREFIGHTERS BY THE OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL, SO AS TO REVISE AND CLARIFY THE REQUIREMENTS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 102 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell and Massey: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-1-320, RELATING TO MILLAGE RATE INCREASE LIMITATIONS, SO AS TO ALLOW A MUNICIPALITY WITHOUT AN OPERATING MILLAGE ON JANUARY 1, 2025, OR A MUNICIPALITY THAT INCORPORATES AFTER JANUARY 1, 2025, TO IMPOSE AN OPERATING MILLAGE AND TO IMPOSE LIMITATIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 103 (Word version) -- Senators Climer and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 47-17-510, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION AGAINST MISLEADING OR DECEPTIVE PRACTICES, LABELING, OR MISREPRESENTING PRODUCT THAT IS CELL-CULTURED MEAT, SO AS TO DEFINE CELL-CULTIVATED FOOD PRODUCT AND REQUIRE THE ACCURATE LABELING OF CELL-CULTIVATED FOOD PRODUCT.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

S. 104 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 60-9-15 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER OF ALLOCATING AMOUNTS APPROPRIATED FOR AID TO COUNTY LIBRARIES, AND TO PROVIDE THAT IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THESE FUNDS COUNTY LIBRARIES MUST CERTIFY TO THE STATE LIBRARY THAT THEY DO NOT OFFER ANY BOOKS OR MATERIALS THAT APPEAL TO THE PRURIENT INTERESTS OF CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF SEVENTEEN IN CHILDREN, YOUTH, OR TEEN BOOK SECTIONS AND ARE ONLY AVAILABLE WITH PARENTAL CONSENT, AND TO PROVIDE COUNTY LIBRARIES MUST RECERTIFY COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PROVISION QUARTERLY BEFORE IT MAY RECEIVE A DISBURSEMENT OF THESE FUNDS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 105 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO MAKE APPLICATION BY THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA UNDER ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION FOR A CONVENTION OF THE STATES TO BE CALLED, RESTRICTED TO PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION TO SET A LIMIT ON THE NUMBER OF TERMS THAT A PERSON MAY BE ELECTED AS A MEMBER OF THE UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND TO SET A LIMIT ON THE NUMBER OF TERMS THAT A PERSON MAY BE ELECTED AS A MEMBER OF THE UNITED STATES SENATE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 106 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 27-13-30, RELATING TO THE LIMITATION ON OWNERSHIP OR CONTROL OF LAND IN THIS STATE BY ALIENS OR CORPORATIONS OWNED BY ALIENS, SO AS TO REDUCE THE LIMITATION TO ONE THOUSAND ACRES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 107 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 9-1-1790 AND 9-11-90, RELATING TO THE AMOUNT OF COMPENSATION THAT MAY BE EARNED UPON RETURNING TO COVERED EMPLOYMENT UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND THE POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM, RESPECTIVELY, SO AS TO CHANGE THE AMOUNT THAT MAY BE EARNED FROM TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS TO AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THE LOWER OF THE RETIREMENT EARNINGS TEST EXEMPT AMOUNTS FOR INDIVIDUALS BELOW NORMAL RETIREMENT AGE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 108 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "TAX CREDITS FOR PARENTAL CHOICE IN EDUCATION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3830 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR AN INDIVIDUAL WHO CHOOSES TO EDUCATE HIS CHILD OUTSIDE THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 109 (Word version) -- Senators Rice and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 7-5-115 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON IS NOT ALLOWED TO VOTE IN A PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION OR PARTISAN ADVISORY REFERENDUM UNLESS THE PERSON HAS REGISTERED AS BEING A MEMBER OF THAT POLITICAL PARTY; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-110, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF REGISTRATION IN ORDER TO VOTE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON IS NOT ALLOWED TO VOTE IN A PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION OR PARTISAN ADVISORY REFERENDUM UNLESS THE PERSON HAS REGISTERED AS A MEMBER OF THAT POLITICAL PARTY; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-170, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS FOR VOTER REGISTRATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A STATEMENT OF POLITICAL PARTY AFFILIATION, IF ANY, ON THE FORM AND INCLUSION IN THE OATH, AND TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO ASSIST IN CAPTURING THIS DATA; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-9-20, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR VOTING IN PRIMARY ELECTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE REGISTRATION AS A MEMBER OF THE POLITICAL PARTY, AND TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR CHANGING POLITICAL PARTY AFFILIATION OR NONAFFILIATION AFTER A SELECTION HAS BEEN MADE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 110 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 48-1-110, RELATING IN PART TO UNLAWFUL DISCHARGES OF AIR CONTAMINANTS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE EMISSION OF ANY AIR CONTAMINANT WHOSE PURPOSE IS TO AFFECT TEMPERATURE, WEATHER, OR SUNLIGHT INTENSITY.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 111 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-750, RELATING TO THE OFFENSE OF FAILURE TO STOP MOTOR VEHICLES WHEN SIGNALED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE PENALTIES WHEN VEHICLES LEAD OFFICERS ON HIGH-SPEED PURSUITS WHICH HAVE BEEN VIDEO RECORDED.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Transportation

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

S. 112 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "HELP FIND THE MISSING ACT"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 23-1-260 SO AS TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS, PROVIDE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN CORONERS OR MEDICAL EXAMINERS MUST REFER DECEDENTS' BODIES FOR EXAMINATION TO SLED'S FORENSIC SERVICES LABORATORY WHICH MUST RETAIN AND FURNISH CERTAIN INFORMATION ABOUT THE PERSONS TO THE NATIONAL MISSING AND UNIDENTIFIED PERSONS SYSTEM, TO REQUIRE THE COLLECTION OF DENTAL RECORDS BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES OF PERSONS WHO ARE SUBJECTS OF MISSING PERSONS REPORTS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REPORTING OF MISSING PERSONS IN CERTAIN DATABASES, TO REQUIRE SLED TO ADOPT RULES RELATING TO THE DISSEMINATION OF MISSING PERSONS' RECORDS, TO PROVIDE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES MAY NOT ESTABLISH OR MAINTAIN POLICIES WHICH REQUIRE A WAITING PERIOD BEFORE ACCEPTING AND INVESTIGATING MISSING CHILD REPORTS AND MUST ENTER THE REPORTS INTO THE NATIONAL CRIME INFORMATION CENTER, TO PROVIDE WHEN MISSING PERSONS ARE FOUND, LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES MUST INFORM SLED AND THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE THAT THE PERSONS HAVE BEEN FOUND, TO PROVIDE THIS SECTION DOES NOT PROHIBIT CERTAIN AGENCIES AND PERSONS FROM MAINTAINING CASE FILES RELATED TO MISSING CITIZENS OR UNIDENTIFIED BODIES, AND TO PROVIDE SLED SHALL PERFORM ANNUALLY A COMPLIANCE REVIEW OF THE PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THIS SECTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 113 (Word version) -- Senators Cash and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-110, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT PERSONS MUST REGISTER IN ORDER TO VOTE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON MAY NOT VOTE IN A PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION OR A PARTISAN ADVISORY REFERENDUM UNLESS REGISTERED AS A MEMBER OF THAT POLITICAL PARTY; BY ADDING SECTION 7-5-115 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ONLY AN ELECTOR REGISTERED AS A MEMBER OF A CERTIFIED POLITICAL PARTY MAY VOTE IN A PARTISAN PRIMARY ELECTION OR A PARTISAN ADVISORY REFERENDUM, AND TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-170, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR VOTER REGISTRATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SELECTION OF A POLITICAL PARTY ON A VOTER REGISTRATION APPLICATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-9-20, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR PARTY MEMBERSHIP AND VOTING IN PRIMARY ELECTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP IN A CERTIFIED POLITICAL PARTY; AND TO PROVIDE EFFECTIVE DATES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 114 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Grooms and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-3-340 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT UPON REQUEST OF A LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY, A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS CARRIER SHALL PROVIDE CALL LOCATION INFORMATION CONCERNING THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICE OF THE USER TO THE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY IN ORDER TO RESPOND TO A CALL FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES OR IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION THAT INVOLVES THE RISK OF DEATH OR SERIOUS PHYSICAL HARM, TO PROVIDE A CIVIL OR CRIMINAL ACTION MAY NOT BE BROUGHT AGAINST A WIRELESS SERVICE PROVIDER UNDER THIS SECTION UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE SLED SHALL OBTAIN CONTACT INFORMATION FROM WIRELESS SERVICE PROVIDERS TO FACILITATE A REQUEST FROM A LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 115 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Grooms and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "GUARDIANS OF OUR SCHOOLS ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 66, TITLE 59 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT BEGINNING WITH THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR, THE GOVERNING BOARDS OF PUBLIC K-12 SCHOOLS MAY DESIGNATE EMPLOYEES AS SCHOOL GUARDIANS TO PROVIDE ARMED PROTECTION AND OTHER RELATED PUBLIC SAFETY FUNCTIONS ON THEIR CAMPUSES, TO DEFINE RELATED TERMINOLOGY, AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-112 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE LAW ENFORCEMENT COUNCIL MUST DEVELOP A TRAINING PROGRAM AND GUIDELINES FOR SCHOOL GUARDIANS THAT MUST BE OFFERED BY THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-420, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE PROHIBITION ON POSSESSION OF FIREARM ON SCHOOL PROPERTY, SO AS TO EXEMPT SCHOOL GUARDIANS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 116 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "MULTIFAMILY DWELLING SAFETY ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-110 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR A MULTIFAMILY DWELLING AND OTHER TERMS; BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-120 SO AS TO DEFINE A QUALIFIED INSPECTOR OF MULTIFAMILY DWELLINGS; BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-130 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION TO ADOPT A MULTIFAMILY DWELLING BALCONY CODE ESTABLISHING MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR BALCONY RAILINGS THAT ARE PRIMARILY CONSTRUCTED OF WOOD AND ARE LOCATED IN MULTIFAMILY DWELLINGS; BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-140 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO PERIODICALLY CONDUCT INSPECTIONS OF SUCH BALCONIES TO ASCERTAIN COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE; BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-150 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT SHALL CHARGE A PROPERTY OWNER A FEE FOR INSPECTIONS MADE TO ENFORCE THE MULTIFAMILY DWELLING BALCONY CODE; BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-160 SO AS TO PROVIDE REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-170 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY AUTHORIZE WAIVERS OR EXEMPTIONS UNDER THE MULTIFAMILY DWELLING BALCONY CODE; AND BY ADDING SECTION 20-21-180 SO AS TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE MULTIFAMILY DWELLING BALCONY CODE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 117 (Word version) -- Senators Adams and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-605 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT, TO DEFINE TERMS PERTAINING TO THIS OFFENSE, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-610, RELATING TO CERTAIN OFFENSES COMMITTED WITH A CARRIED OR CONCEALED DEADLY WEAPON, SO AS TO INCLUDE RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 17-15-55, RELATING TO RECONSIDERATION BY CIRCUIT COURT OF BOND SET BY SUMMARY COURT AND SUBSEQUENT VIOLENT OFFENDERS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE BOND FOR THE OFFENSE OF RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT TO BE HELD IN CIRCUIT COURT IF THE OFFENSE WAS COMMITTED BY A PERSON ALREADY OUT ON BOND FOR A PREVIOUS VIOLENT OFFENSE, RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT OFFENSE, OR ANY FELONY OFFENSE INVOLVING A FIREARM.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 118 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-95 SO AS TO ALLOW A RETIRED POLICE OFFICER WHO MAINTAINS A CONSTABLE CERTIFICATION AFTER HE IS CERTIFIED PURSUANT TO SECTION 23-23-70 TO BE EMPLOYED BY ONE OR MORE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES WITHOUT BEING SUBJECT TO THE EARNINGS LIMITATION IN SECTION 9-11-90(4).
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 119 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-11-90, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF RESTORING BENEFICIARY TO SERVICE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF TIME A BENEFICIARY MUST BE RETIRED BEFORE RETURNING TO WORK FROM THIRTY TO NINETY DAYS AND TO REMOVE THE EARNINGS LIMITATION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 120 (Word version) -- Senators Adams and Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-23-60, RELATING TO CERTIFICATES OF COMPLIANCE, INFORMATION TO BE SUBMITTED RELATED TO QUALIFICATION OF CANDIDATES FOR CERTIFICATION, AND EXPIRATION OF CERTIFICATES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, SO AS TO PERMIT SLED TO CONDUCT STATE- AND FEDERAL-LEVEL CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECKS ON INDIVIDUALS SEEKING CERTIFICATION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 121 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-40(B), RELATING TO SAFE HAVEN FOR ABANDONED BABIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SAFE HAVEN MUST OFFER THE PERSON LEAVING THE INFANT INFORMATION PREPARED BY THE DEPARTMENT CONCERNING THE LEGAL EFFECT OF LEAVING THE INFANT WITH THE SAFE HAVEN; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-1700(A), RELATING TO PERMANENCY PLANNING, SO AS TO DECREASE THE TIME IN WHICH A PERMANENCY PLANNING HEARING MUST BE HELD FROM NO LATER THAN ONE YEAR TO NO LATER THAN NINE MONTHS AFTER THE CHILD IS FIRST PLACED IN FOSTER CARE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-1700(E), RELATING TO THE FILING OF A PETITION TO TERMINATE PARENTAL RIGHTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO COMPLETE AND FILE WITH THE COURT A BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION AND REPORT REGARDING THE CHILD WITHIN SIXTY DAYS OF THE FILING OF A PETITION TO TERMINATE PARENTAL RIGHTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-1700(F) AND SECTION 63-7-1700(H), RELATING TO AN EXTENSION FOR REUNIFICATION, SO AS TO DECREASE THE TIME IN WHICH AN EXTENSION MAY BE GRANTED FOR REUNIFICATION EFFORTS FROM EIGHTEEN MONTHS TO FIFTEEN MONTHS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-1700(I), RELATING TO PERMANENCY PLANNING HEARINGS, BY PROVIDING THAT A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING MAY SERVE AS THE NEXT PERMANENCY PLANNING HEARING ONLY IF IT IS HELD NO LATER THAN NINE MONTHS FROM THE DATE OF THE PREVIOUS PERMANENCY PLANNING HEARING, AND SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERMANENCY PLANNING HEARING MUST BE HELD QUARTERLY INSTEAD OF ANNUALLY AFTER THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-1710, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO COMPLETE AND FILE WITH THE COURT A BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION AND REPORT REGARDING THE CHILD WITHIN SIXTY DAYS OF THE FILING OF A PETITION TO TERMINATE PARENTAL RIGHTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-2550, RELATING TO SERVICE OF PETITION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN UNMARRIED BIOLOGICAL FATHER MUST RECEIVE SERVICE OF A TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS ACTION; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-2570, RELATING TO GROUNDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN FINDING THAT TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF A CHILD, THE COURT MUST FIND THAT THE HOME OF THE CHILD'S PARENTS IS NOT SAFE FOR THE RETURN OF THE CHILD AT THE TIME OF THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-9-730, RELATING TO NOTICE OF ADOPTION PROCEEDINGS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IF NOTICE OF AN ADOPTION PROCEEDING CANNOT BE EFFECTED BY PERSONAL SERVICE, THEN NOTICE MAY BE GIVEN BY PUBLICATION OF THE SUMMONS IN WHICH THE REQUESTED RELIEF OF TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS, OR ADOPTION, OR BOTH, IS SET FORTH; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-9-760, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF A FINAL ADOPTION DECREE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FINAL DECREE IS NOT AFFECTED BY A POSTADOPTION AGREEMENT ENTERED INTO BEFORE OR AFTER THE ADOPTION; BY ADDING SECTION 63-9-765, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR POSTADOPTION CONTACT AGREEMENTS TO BE ENFORCEABLE IF AGREED TO BY THE PARTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-820, RELATING TO THE PUTATIVE FATHER REGISTRY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A REGISTRANT MUST INCLUDE ANY ALIASES WHEN HE REGISTERS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3595, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A TAX CREDIT FOR ANY RESIDENT TAXPAYER THAT CLAIMS THE FEDERAL TAX CREDIT FOR QUALIFIED ADOPTION EXPENSES RELATED TO A DOMESTIC ADOPTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

S. 122 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 10, TITLE 59, SO AS TO CREATE THE SCHOOL CHAPLAIN PROGRAM AVAILABLE TO EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT AND CHARTER SCHOOL, TO PROVIDE FOR THE PARAMETERS OF THE PROGRAM, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE QUALIFICATIONS OF SCHOOL CHAPLAINS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 123 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-11-15, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS TO RUN AS A CANDIDATE IN GENERAL ELECTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A PROCESS FOR REOPENING THE TIME TO FILE FOR OFFICE IN CASE OF A CANDIDATE'S DEATH OR WITHDRAWAL.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 124 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-13-130, RELATING TO MANAGERS' TABLE; GUARD RAIL; GENERAL ARRANGEMENT; PRESERVATION OF RIGHT TO VOTE AND SECRECY OF BALLOT, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE RELEASE OF CERTAIN VOTED BALLOTS AND DE-IDENTIFIED CAST VOTE RECORDS PURSUANT TO COURT ORDER, ORDER OF THE APPROPRIATE BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS, OR FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 30-4-20, RELATING TO FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE CAST VOTE RECORDS IN THE DEFINITION OF PUBLIC RECORD.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 125 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-37-220, RELATING TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN PROPERTY OF A NONPROFIT HOUSING CORPORATION ONLY APPLIES TO THE PERCENTAGE OF PROPERTY THAT EQUALS THE CORPORATION'S OWNERSHIP INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY, TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION, AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN CERTIFICATION AND NOTICE REQUIREMENTS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 126 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 30-2-500, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IN THE DEFINITION OF "PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION" AND TO DEFINE "DISCLOSED RECORDS"; BY AMENDING SECTION 30-2-510, RELATING TO OPTION FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TO MAKE PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL; EXCEPTIONS; PROCEDURES, SO AS TO RESTRICT PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION IN A DISCLOSED RECORD FROM A PUBLICLY AVAILABLE INTERNET WEBSITE MAINTAINED BY OR OPERATED ON BEHALF OF A STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND TO REQUIRE THAT THE PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION RESTRICTED FROM DISCLOSED RECORDS UNDER THIS SECTION MUST REMAIN WITHIN THE OFFICIAL RECORD HELD OR MAINTAINED BY A STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY, AND TO ALLOW DISCLOSURE TO CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS OR ENTITIES; BY ADDING SECTION 30-2-515 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PETITION TO COURT FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE ARTICLE AND TO PREVENT LIABILITY FROM ACCRUING TO A STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE OR THE EMPLOYEE'S AGENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 30-2-700, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IN THE DEFINITION OF "PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION" AND TO DEFINE "DISCLOSED RECORDS"; BY AMENDING SECTION 30-2-710, RELATING TO OPTION FOR JUDGES TO MAKE PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL; EXCEPTIONS; PROCEDURES, SO AS TO RESTRICT PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION IN A DISCLOSED RECORD FROM A PUBLICLY AVAILABLE INTERNET WEBSITE MAINTAINED BY OR OPERATED ON BEHALF OF A STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND TO REQUIRE THAT THE PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION RESTRICTED FROM DISCLOSED RECORDS UNDER THIS SECTION MUST REMAIN WITHIN THE OFFICIAL RECORD HELD OR MAINTAINED BY A STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY, AND TO ALLOW DISCLOSURE TO CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS OR ENTITIES; BY ADDING SECTION 30-2-715 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PETITION TO COURT FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE ARTICLE AND TO PREVENT LIABILITY FROM ACCRUING TO A STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE OR THE EMPLOYEE'S AGENTS; TO DIRECT THE OFFICE OF COURT ADMINISTRATION AND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY TO COLLABORATE IN THE CREATION OF THE DESIGNATED FORM FOR A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER AND FOR A JUDGE TO USE TO REQUEST THE RESTRICTION OF PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION IN DISCLOSED RECORDS; AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 127 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 9-11-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE CATAWBA NATION WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF EMPLOYER; AND BY ADDING SECTION 9-11-43 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CATAWBA NATION IS ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION TO THE POLICE OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PROCESS FOR ADMISSION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 128 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-120, RELATING TO THE QUALIFICATIONS VOTER REGISTRATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON MUST PROVIDE SATISFACTORY EVIDENCE OF CITIZENSHIP TO REGISTER TO VOTE AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO DOES NOT PROVIDE SATISFACTORY EVIDENCE OF CITIZENSHIP MAY NOT REGISTER TO VOTE; BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-170, RELATING TO THE WRITTEN APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION TO VOTE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DOCUMENTATION THAT THE COUNTY BOARD OF VOTER REGISTRATION MAY CONSIDER AS SATISFACTORY EVIDENCE OF CITIZENSHIP; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL MUST REVIEW THE REGISTRATION ROLLS IN EFFECT ON THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ACT TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THIS ACT.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 129 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-31-1100 SO AS TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL AND CIVIL IMMUNITY TO FEDERAL FIREARMS LICENSEES WHO POSSESS ANOTHER'S FIREARMS PURSUANT TO A VALID FIREARM HOLD AGREEMENT.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 130 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-1-80, RELATING TO COUNTY OFFICERS SHALL BE FURNISHED OFFICE SPACE, FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT BY COUNTY, SO AS TO FURNISH SPACE IN A SECURE, EXISTING FACILITY FOR THE WORKERS' COMPENSATION COMMISSION TO CONDUCT HEARINGS UPON REQUEST OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE WORKERS' COMPENSATION COMMISSION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 4-9-55, RELATING TO ENACTMENT OF GENERAL LAWS AFFECTING COUNTIES' EXPENDITURES AND REVENUE RAISING; CONDITIONS; EXCEPTIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE WORKERS' COMPENSATION COMMISSION IN THE EXCEPTIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 131 (Word version) -- Senators Kimbrell and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA JOB CREATION AND COMPETITIVENESS ACT OF 2025"; BY REPEALING CHAPTERS 6 AND 20 OF TITLE 12 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA INCOME TAX ACT AND CORPORATE LICENSE FEES; BY ADDING CHAPTER 7 TO TITLE 12, RELATING TO INCOME TAX, TO PROVIDE THAT SOUTH CAROLINA TAXABLE INCOME FOR INDIVIDUALS, ESTATES, AND TRUSTS IS EQUAL TO THE THREE AND ONE HALF PERCENT OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE FEDERAL TAXABLE INCOME OF THE TAXPAYER AND THE STATE STANDARD DEDUCTION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE STATE STANDARD DEDUCTION, TO PROVIDE FOR AN EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT, TO PROVIDE FOR INCOME TAXES PAID TO ANOTHER STATE, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE IMPLEMENTING THIS CHAPTER; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM SALES TAX, SO AS TO REPEAL CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 132 (Word version) -- Senators Kimbrell and Blackmon: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH CRITERIA FOR THE STATE TO RECOVER FUNDS APPROPRIATED FOR CERTAIN PURPOSES RELATED TO THE SCOUT MOTORS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 133 (Word version) -- Senator Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-140, RELATING TO SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF LICENSES AND PERMITS FOR THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS, BEER, AND WINE, SO AS TO A PERSON LICENSED OR PERMITTED UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THIS TITLE WHO MAINTAINS A LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICY OR A GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICY WITH A LIQUOR LIABILITY ENDORSEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 61-2-145 MUST SURRENDER HIS LICENSE UPON THE THIRD OCCURRENCE DURING ANY ONE CALENDAR YEAR OF AN EVENT OR SERIES OF EVENTS THAT ACTIVATES COVERAGE FOR THE INSURED; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-145, RELATING TO LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE REQUIRE FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION, SO AS TO REDUCE THE REQUIREMENT FROM ONE MILLION DOLLARS TO TWO HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-3-530, RELATING TO THREE YEARS TIME PERIOD FOR THE COMMENCEMENT OF ACTIONS OTHER THAN FOR THE RECOVERY OF REAL PROPERTY SHALL BE AS PRESCRIBED IN THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS SO AS TO ADD ANY ACTION ON A POLICY OF INSURANCE REQUIRED PURSUANT TO SECTION 61-2-145; BY ADDING SECTION 15-38-12 SO AS TO PROVIDE A NECESSARY DEFINITION; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-38-15, RELATING TO JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IS FIFTY PERCENT OR GREATER AT FAULT FOR THE INCIDENT RESULTING IN THE DAMAGES FOR WHICH HE IS SEEKING RECOVERY, THEN THE JURY SHALL RETURN A VERDICT FOR THE DEFENDANT, AND IF THE PLAINTIFF IS NOT FIFTY PERCENT OR MORE AT FAULT THEN THE DEFENDANTS ARE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES IN DIRECT PROPORTION TO THEIR PERCENTAGE OF FAULT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 15-33-135, RELATING TO PUNITIVE DAMAGES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT PUNITIVE DAMAGES ON ANY ACTION ON A POLICY OF INSURANCE REQUIRED PURSUANT TO SECTION 61-2-145.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 134 (Word version) -- Senators Kimbrell, Blackmon and Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-29-250 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP AND ADOPT ACADEMIC STANDARDS THAT INCORPORATE THE BIBLE INTO ITS CURRICULUM FOR WORLD HISTORY, THE HISTORY OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION, UNITED STATES HISTORY, SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORY, AND LITERATURE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 135 (Word version) -- Senator Reichenbach: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-455, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT SCHOOLS ALLOT TIME FOR THE RECITATION OF THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE, SO AS TO REQUIRE PUPILS TO SALUTE THE UNITED STATES FLAG AND RECITE THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 136 (Word version) -- Senator Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-1-65, RELATING TO THE EXPUNGEMENT OF CONVICTIONS FOR THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF HANDGUNS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE MUST DISMISS CERTAIN PENDING UNLAWFUL HANDGUN POSSESSION CHARGES THAT OCCURRED PRIOR TO THE ENACTMENT OF THE S.C. CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY/SECOND AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT OF 2024, AND TO PROVIDE THE DISMISSAL OF THESE CHARGES DOES NOT MANDATE THE DISMISSAL OF OTHER RELATED CHARGES OR MAY SERVE AS A BASIS OR SUPPORT FOR CIVIL ACTIONS DUE TO THE ARREST.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 137 (Word version) -- Senator Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 56 TO TITLE 46, SO AS TO REGULATE THE SALE AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRODUCTS CONTAINING HEMP-DERIVED CANNABINOID; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-380, RELATING TO TOBACCO-FREE SCHOOL CAMPUS POLICY, SO AS TO ADD REFERENCES TO HEMP-DERIVED CANNABINOIDS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.

S. 138 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder and Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-1-65, RELATING TO THE S.C. CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY/SECOND AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT OF 2024, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE MUST DISMISS SELECT PENDING UNLAWFUL HANDGUN POSSESSION CHARGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 139 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 48-1-91 SO AS TO REQUIRE ANY PERSON POSSESSING A NPDES PERMIT WHICH ALLOWS THE DISCHARGE OF EFFLUENT INTO STATE WATERS TO POST A SIGN, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REQUIREMENTS OF THAT SIGN, AND TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES TO WAIVE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 140 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 24-3-180, RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION AND CLOTHES FOR DISCHARGED INMATES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE INMATE MUST BE PROVIDED WITH WRITTEN NOTICE THAT THE INMATE IS ELIGIBLE TO REGISTER TO VOTE AND INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING HOW TO REGISTER TO VOTE; BY ADDING SECTION 24-13-190 SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 24-21-280, RELATING TO THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF PROBATION AGENTS AND THE AUTHORITY TO ENFORCE CRIMINAL LAWS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON CONVICTED OF A FELONY WHO, BY COMPLETING SUPERVISION, HAS COMPLETED ALL TERMS OF HIS SENTENCE MUST BE PROVIDED WITH THE CONTACT INFORMATION OF THE VOTER REGISTRATION BOARD; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-120, RELATING TO QUALIFICATIONS FOR REGISTRATION AND PERSONS DISQUALIFIED FROM REGISTERING OR VOTING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON FORMERLY DISQUALIFIED FROM VOTING MUST PROVIDE VERIFICATION AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION THAT HE HAS SERVED HIS SENTENCE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Corrections and Penology.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Corrections and Penology.

S. 141 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-31-9010 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTS OF THIS STATE WHO OWN OR POSSESS FIREARMS SHALL OBTAIN AND CARRY LIABILITY INSURANCE THAT COVERS LOSSES OR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM ANY NEGLIGENT OR ACCIDENTAL USE OF THE FIREARM, TO PROVIDE THAT PROOF INSURANCE MUST BE DISPLAYED UPON DEMAND BY LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 142 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-170 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL DEVELOP A MODEL USE OF FORCE POLICY THAT MAY BE ADOPTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES, TO MANDATE USE OF FORCE TRAINING AT THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, TO PROVIDE THAT A LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY THAT DOES NOT IMPLEMENT A USE OF FORCE POLICY LOSES QUALIFIED IMMUNITY FOR ITS OFFICERS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IN A DEPARTMENT THAT DOES NOT ADOPT AN APPROVED USE OF FORCE POLICY ARE NOT SUBJECT TO QUALIFIED IMMUNITY FOR ANY INCIDENT THAT OCCURS WHICH WOULD BE ADDRESSED BY THE MODEL USE OF FORCE POLICY.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 143 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO DOMESTIC ABUSE, SO AS TO INCLUDE PERSONS WHO ARE OR WERE DATING TO THE LIST OF PERSONS DEFINED AS "HOUSEHOLD MEMBER"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-40, RELATING TO PETITIONS FOR AN ORDER OF PROTECTION, SO AS TO INCLUDE A PARENT, GUARDIAN, LEGAL COUNSEL, OR OTHER APPROPRIATE ADULT AS A PERSON WHO CAN PETITION ON BEHALF OF MINORS IN THE PERSON'S HOUSEHOLD.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 144 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-61-100, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES, SO AS TO ALLOW FIREFIGHTERS TO TRANSPORT PATIENTS IN VEHICLES OTHER THAN AMBULANCES WHEN FIREFIGHTERS ARRIVE BEFORE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE PROVIDERS AND THERE IS A PATIENT SUFFERING FROM A CONDITION REQUIRING AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 145 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY REPEALING ACT 111 OF 2024 RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY/SECOND AMENDMENT PRESERVATION ACT OF 2024; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATUTES CONTAINED IN THAT ACT REVERT TO THE LANGUAGE CONTAINED IN THEM.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 146 (Word version) -- Senator Nutt: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-81-40, RELATING TO RIGHTS OF RESIDENTS OF LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT RESIDENTS MAY DESIGNATE ONE PERSON WHO IS PERMITTED TO VISIT THE RESIDENT IN THE EVENT THAT ACCESS TO THE FACILITY IS LIMITED OR PROHIBITED DUE TO A DECLARED STATE OF EMERGENCY ARISING FROM A DISASTER OR PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

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

S. 147 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-36-810 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ELIGIBLE SCHOOLS THAT PARTICIPATE IN THE SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM SHALL PROVIDE BREAKFAST AND LUNCH WITHOUT CHARGE TO ALL STUDENTS AND TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-350, RELATING TO LENGTH OF LUNCH PERIOD AND FACTORS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SCHOOLS TO PROVIDE THIRTY MINUTE LUNCH PERIODS TO ALL STUDENTS.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Education.

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

S. 148 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-3-555, RELATING TO STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS FOR ACTION BASED ON SEXUAL ABUSE OR INCEST, SO AS TO EXTEND THE TIME WITHIN WHICH AN ACTION TO RECOVER DAMAGES FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT, SEXUAL ABUSE, OR INCEST MAY COMMENCE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 15-78-110, RELATING TO STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 149 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA JUVENILE JUSTICE REFORM ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-1-20, RELATING TO POLICY REGARDING THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S CODE, SO AS TO INCLUDE WITHIN THE STATEMENT A PROVISION TO ESTABLISH A POLICY REGARDING THE CARE AND GUIDANCE OF CHILDREN WITHIN THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM; SO AS TO ADD ARTICLE 6 TO CHAPTER 19, TITLE 63, SO AS TO REQUIRE EACH CIRCUIT SOLICITOR TO ESTABLISH A JUVENILE OFFENDER CIVIL CITATION PROGRAM TO PROVIDE A CIVIL DIVERSION PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN WHO HAVE COMMITTED ACTS OF DELINQUENCY, AND TO ESTABLISH ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-17-425, RELATING TO STUDENT THREATS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A STUDENT TO MAKE A THREAT TO COMMIT AN ACT OF MASS VIOLENCE AT A SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR UNIVERSITY, OR AT A SCHOOL , COLLEGE , OR UNIVERSITY SPONSORED ACTIVITY, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 16-23-430, RELATING TO CARRYING A WEAPON ON SCHOOL PROPERTY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON TO CARRY, WHILE ON ELEMENTARY OR SECONDARY SCHOOL PROPERTY, A KNIFE, FIREARM, OR OTHER WEAPON WITH THE INTENT BY THE PERSON TO INFLICT SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-1-40, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE FROM THE DEFINITION THE PLAYING OR LOITERING IN A BILLIARD ROOM; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-520, RELATING TO THE TRAFFIC AND WILDLIFE JURISDICTION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AGE OF CONCURRENT JURISDICTION FROM PERSONS UNDER SEVENTEEN YEARS OF AGE TO PERSONS UNDER EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-310, RELATING TO PERSONS REQUIRED TO REPORT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A PERSON EMPLOYED BY A LAWYER MUST REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE IF THE SUSPICION ARISES IN THE COURSE OF THE LEGAL REPRESENTATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE FROM THE DEFINITION THE PLAYING OR LOITERING IN A BILLIARD ROOM; BY ADDING ARTICLE 2 TO CHAPTER 19, TITLE 63, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE "CHILDREN'S BILL OF RIGHTS," TO PROVIDE THAT A CHILD HAS THE RIGHT TO BE TREATED WITH BASIC HUMAN DIGNITY, TO BE PROVIDED NECESSARY CARE, MEDICAL TREATMENT, FOOD, EDUCATION, ACCESS TO FAMILY, ADVOCATES, AND LAWYERS, AND TO BE FREE FROM ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND HARASSMENT, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICATION OF THESE RIGHTS; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-210 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT MUST ARRANGE FOR A CHILD FIFTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR YOUNGER TO MEET WITH LEGAL COUNSEL PRIOR TO A CUSTODIAL INTERROGATION EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-340, RELATING TO ANNUAL REPORTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE REPORT MUST INCLUDE SPECIFIC STATISTICS RELATING TO CHILDREN REFERRED TO THE DEPARTMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-350, RELATING TO COMMUNITY SERVICES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO DEVELOP AND UTILIZE STRUCTURED DECISION MAKING TOOLS FOR ALL KEY POINTS OF THE JUVENILE JUSTICE PROCESS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-360, RELATING TO INSTITUTIONAL SERVICES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE CHILD EVALUATION TO BE CONDUCTED BY THE DEPARTMENT TO INCLUDE A BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL ASSESSMENT AND A DETERMINATION OF THE CHILD'S MENTAL HEALTH FUNCTIONING; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-362 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT BEFORE SUBMITTING A PETITION FOR A CHILD IN ITS CUSTODY FOR A MISDEMEANOR THAT WOULD CARRY A MAXIMUM TERM OF IMPRISONMENT OF FIVE YEARS OR LESS, THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE MUST ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE THE SITUATION THROUGH AVAILABLE ADMINISTRATIVE APPROACHES; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-365 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF SOLITARY CONFINEMENT ON A CHILD AND PROVIDE LIMITS FOR THE USE OF CORRECTIVE ROOM RESTRICTIONS UPON CHILDREN WITHIN THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-370, RELATING TO INTERDEPARTMENTAL AGREEMENTS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO ESTABLISH AGREEMENTS WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO PROVIDE REENTRY SERVICES FOR CHILDREN RETURNING TO SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES FROM THE DEPARTMENT'S CUSTODY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-500 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT THE DEPARTMENT ESTABLISH AT LEAST ONE PRE-DETENTION INTERVENTION PROGRAM IN EACH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT AND TO ESTABLISH PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND ELIGIBILITY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-520 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE JUVENILE JUSTICE IMPROVEMENT FUND, TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO DIVERT MONEYS SAVED FROM DECREASED RELIANCE ON OUT OF HOME PLACEMENT TO FUND COMMUNITY INTERVENTION PROGRAMS INCLUDING EDUCATIONAL, MENTAL HEALTH, AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-810, RELATING TO TAKING A CHILD INTO CUSTODY, SO AS TO REMOVE A DUPLICATIVE NOTIFICATION PROVISION BY LAW ENFORCEMENT TO SCHOOL PRINCIPALS AND TO REQUIRE THAT ANY CHILD SEVENTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER, WHO HAS BEEN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY BUT WHO HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED TO A PARENT OR GUARDIAN, MUST HAVE A BOND HEARING BEFORE A MAGISTRATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-820, RELATING TO OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT, SO AS TO LIMIT SECURE PRE TRIAL DETENTION TO CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE IT IS THE LEAST RESTRICTIVE APPROPRIATE OPTION AND IF THE CHILD IS CHARGED WITH A CRIME THAT WOULD BE A FIVE YEAR FELONY OR GREATER, HAS EXHAUSTED COMMUNITY BASED ALTERNATIVES, OR IS CHARGED WITH UNLAWFUL STUDENT THREATS OR FAILURE TO STOP FOR A BLUE LIGHT, TO REMOVE THE ELIGIBILITY OF JUVENILES CHARGED AS AN ADULT TO BE HOUSED IN ADULT DETENTION FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-830, RELATING TO DETENTION HEARINGS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE COURT TO ORDER A CHILD DETAINED IN AN APPROVED HOME, PROGRAM, OR FACILITY OTHER THAN A SECURE JUVENILE DETENTION FACILITY WHILE AWAITING TRIAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1010, RELATING TO INTAKE AND PROBATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A CHILD BROUGHT BEFORE THE FAMILY COURT SHALL HAVE A PRESUMPTION FOR DIVERSION IF CERTAIN CONDITIONS ARE MET OR IF THE SOLICITOR HAS GOOD CAUSE TO BELIEVE THAT DIVERSION WOULD BE INSUFFICIENT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1020, RELATING TO INSTITUTING PROCEEDINGS, SO AS TO REQUIRE SERVICES TO BE OFFERED BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT MAY ACCEPT A REFERRAL FOR A STATUS OFFENSE OR FOR SCHOOL-BASED OFFENSES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1030, RELATING TO PREHEARING INQUIRY, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT THE PREHEARING INVESTIGATION IS OPTIONAL AND TO ESTABLISH THE PARENTS' RIGHT TO RECEIVE NOTICE OF THE CHARGES AND THEIR RIGHTS TO AN ATTORNEY; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1030, RELATING TO PREHEARING INQUIRY, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT THE PREHEARING INVESTIGATION IS OPTIONAL AND TO ESTABLISH THE PARENTS' RIGHT TO RECEIVE NOTICE OF THE CHARGES AND THEIR RIGHTS TO AN ATTORNEY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1050 SO AS TO PROHIBIT CHARGING A FEE TO A CHILD AS A CONDITION OF DIVERSION AND TO LIMIT THE AMOUNT OF RESTITUTION REQUIRED OF A CHILD IN DIVERSION TO FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1070 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THAT THE FAMILY COURT MAY ADJOURN A CRIMINAL PROCEEDING AGAINST A JUVENILE IN CONTEMPLATION OF DISMISSAL UPON COMPLETION OF CERTAIN CONDITIONS ESTABLISHED BY THE COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1210, RELATING TO TRANSFER OF JURISDICTION, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE TRANSFER TO GENERAL SESSIONS FOR A CHILD FOURTEEN OR FIFTEEN YEARS OF AGE, TO ALLOW A CHILD WHO IS TRANSFERRED TO GENERAL SESSIONS WHO HAS BEEN CHARGED WITH MURDER TO BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A SENTENCE LESS THAN THE MANDATORY MINIMUM, AND TO ALLOW THE DETERMINATION BY THE COURT TO TRANSFER THE CHILD'S CASE TO GENERAL SESSIONS TO BE IMMEDIATELY APPEALABLE TO THE SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1410, RELATING TO ADJUDICATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE COURT TO ORDER THE LEAST RESTRICTIVE APPROPRIATE PLACEMENT FOR A CHILD ADJUDICATED DELINQUENT, TO LIMIT THE LENGTH OF PROBATION, TO LIMIT PROBATION TO NOT EXTEND AFTER A CHILD'S TWENTIETH BIRTHDAY, TO LIMIT THE IMPOSITION OF RESTITUTION FOR A CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF SIXTEEN UNLESS IT IS PROVEN THAT THE CHILD HAS THE ABILITY TO PAY, TO PROHIBIT THE CHILD FROM BEING ORDERED TO PAY FOR DRUG SCREENS UNLESS THE CHILD HAS INSURANCE TO COVER THE COST, AND TO ALLOW FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO PLACE THE CHILD ON ADMINISTRATIVE SUPERVISION TO PAY FOR RESTITUTION OR COMPLETE COMMUNITY SERVICE; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1415 SO AS TO ALLOW THE CIRCUIT SOLICITORS TO OPERATE ONE OR MORE SPECIALTY TREATMENT COURTS IF ALLOWED BY THE SUPREME COURT; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1440, RELATING TO COMMITMENT, SO AS TO LIMIT THE PLACEMENT OF A CHILD INTO THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, TO REQUIRE THE COURT TO ISSUE INDIVIDUALIZED FINDINGS AS TO WHY THE COMMITMENT IS THE LEAST RESTRICTIVE SENTENCING OPTION TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC AND REHABILITATE THE CHILD, TO PROHIBIT THE COMMITMENT OF A CHILD WHO HAS BEEN ADJUDICATED FOR A STATUS OFFENSE OR A PROBATION REVOCATION RELATED TO A STATUS OFFENSE, TO ALLOW THE COURT TO SENTENCE A CHILD WHO HAS COMMITTED AN OFFENSE WHICH CARRIES FIFTEEN YEARS OR MORE TO A DETERMINATE SENTENCE OF UP TO ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY DAYS, AND TO LIMIT THE CONSECUTIVE SENTENCING TO NOT EXCEED THE TIME ELIGIBLE FOR AN INDETERMINATE SENTENCE, TO LIMIT THE ELIGIBILITY FOR RESIDENTIAL EVALUATIONS, AND TO ALLOW FOR THE CHILD TO GET TIME SERVED CREDIT FOR COMMITMENTS TO SHORT-TERM ALTERNATIVE PLACEMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1450, RELATING TO COMMITMENT OF JUVENILE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS OR MENTAL RETARDATION, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT A CHILD MAY NOT BE COMMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE WHO IS HANDICAPPED BY MENTAL ILLNESS OR A DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY; BY ADDING SECTION 63-19-1480 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FAMILY COURT MAY CONDUCT POST DISPOSITIONAL REVIEWS TO DETERMINE IF THE PURPOSES OF THE CRIMINAL SENTENCING HAVE BEEN MET AND THE CHILD'S SENTENCE MAY BE CLOSED, THE HEARING BEING HELD ONLY AFTER ONE YEAR OR IF THE CHILD IS IN THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE, THEN AFTER SIX MONTHS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1810, RELATING TO DETERMINATION OF RELEASE, SO AS TO REMOVE THE AUTHORITY OF THE COURT TO COMMIT A CHILD TO SECURE CUSTODY FOR A PROBATION REVOCATION IF THE CHILD IS ON PROBATION FOR A STATUS OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1820, RELATING TO BOARD OF JUVENILE PAROLE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE RELEASING ENTITY TO DETERMINE THE LENGTH OF STAY GUIDELINES ARE BASED ON EVIDENCE BASED BEST PRACTICES, THE RISKS OF REOFFENDING, AND THE SEVERITY OF THE OFFENSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-1835, RELATING TO COMPLIANCE REDUCTIONS FOR PROBATIONERS AND PAROLEES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT ADMINISTRATIVE COMMUNITY BASED SANCTIONS FOR TECHNICAL VIOLATIONS OF PROBATION OR PAROLE; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2020, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY, SO AS TO REMOVE A REFERENCE TO A DELETED CRIMINAL OFFENSE, TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO NOTIFY THE ADMINISTRATION OF A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY OF AN ENROLLED STUDENT'S CHARGES DELINEATED WITHIN THIS SECTION, AND TO ADD ASSAULT AND BATTERY IN THE FIRST OR SECOND DEGREES TO THE LIST OF CRIMES THAT MUST BE DISCLOSED TO SCHOOL OFFICIALS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2030, RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT RECORDS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-19-2050, RELATING TO PETITION FOR EXPUNGEMENT OF OFFICIAL RECORDS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE EXPUNGEMENT OF ALL OFFICIAL RECORDS RELATED TO THE ADJUDICATION OR DISPOSITION OF A STATUS OFFENSE UPON THE PERSON REACHING EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS HE COMPLETES ANY PENDING FAMILY COURT DISPOSITION AND TO REQUIRE THAT A CHILD SHALL NOT BE CHARGED FOR THE EXPUNGEMENT OF HIS RECORDS ORDERED UNDER THIS SECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1970 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR A STUDENT WHO HAS TRANSFERRED BECAUSE OF HOMELESSNESS, STATUS AS A VICTIM OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT, ADJUDICATIONS OF DELINQUENCY, OR PLACEMENT IN A FACILITY FOR MENTAL HEALTH OR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES MUST CONTACT THE STUDENT'S PRIOR SCHOOL WITHIN TWO DAYS OF ENROLLMENT AND TO REQUIRE THE PREVIOUS SCHOOL DISTRICT TO SEND THE STUDENT'S RECORDS WITHIN TWO DAYS OF REQUEST TO THE NEW SCHOOL, AND TO REQUIRE THAT THE STUDENT RECEIVE TIMELY ASSISTANCE, EQUAL ACCESS, AND PRIORITY PLACEMENT RELATING TO THE TRANSFER; BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1980 SO AS TO REQUIRE SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO PROVIDE SCHOOL LIAISONS TO ASSIST STUDENTS TRANSFERRING DUE TO INVOLVEMENT IN THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-24-60, RELATING TO REQUIREMENT OF SCHOOL OFFICIALS TO CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES WHEN CRIMINAL CONDUCT OCCURS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL OFFICIALS MUST CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT IF A PERSON COMMITS AN ACTION AT A SCHOOL OR SCHOOL-SPONSORED EVENT THAT WOULD BE A FELONY OR A CRIME PUNISHABLE BY FIVE YEARS OR MORE, OR IF THE ACTION RESULTS IN SERIOUS INJURY; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-210, RELATING TO GROUNDS FOR WHICH TRUSTEES MAY EXPEL, SUSPEND, OR TRANSFER PUPILS, SO AS TO LIMIT THE AUTHORITY OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT TO EXPEL, SUSPEND, OR TRANSFER A PUPIL EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-1320, RELATING TO REFERRAL OR PLACEMENT OF STUDENTS IN ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL PROGRAMS, SO AS TO RESTRICT THE AUTOMATIC PLACEMENT OF A CHILD RETURNING FROM THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE TO AN ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY REPEALING SECTION 63-19-2420 RELATING TO LOITERING IN A BILLIARD ROOM; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 63-19-2430 RELATING TO PLAYING PINBALL.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 150 (Word version) -- Senators Blackmon and Graham: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA RENTAL KART AGE ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 41-18-30, RELATING TO APPLICABILITY AND EXCEPTIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA AMUSEMENT RIDES SAFETY CODE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL IS ALLOWED TO OPERATE A RENTAL KART IF THEY ARE EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER OR ARE FIFTEEN YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AND HOLD A VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE OR PERMIT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 41-18-40, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA AMUSEMENT PARK RIDES SAFETY CODE, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 151 (Word version) -- Senators Kennedy and Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-221 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FIRST THIRTY THOUSAND DOLLARS OF THE FAIR MARKET VALUE OF A SMALL BUSINESS IS EXEMPT FROM COUNTY, MUNICIPAL, SCHOOL, AND SPECIAL ASSESSMENT REAL ESTATE PROPERTY TAXES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 152 (Word version) -- Senator Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 2-3-21 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ADDITIONAL IN-DISTRICT COMPENSATION TO BE USED TO HIRE PRIVATE SECURITY OR INSTALL SECURITY DEVICES.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

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

S. 153 (Word version) -- Senators Leber, Zell, Kimbrell and Rice: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, BY REPEALING SECTION 4, ARTICLE XI RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION ON PUBLIC FUNDS BEING USED FOR THE DIRECT BENEFIT OF A RELIGIOUS OR OTHER PRIVATE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION.
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Prefiled and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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

S. 154 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO COMMEND RYAN LOVETTE FOR HIS FORTY-FOUR YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE AS A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER AND THIRTY-NINE YEARS OF PAID SERVICE WITH THE GREENWOOD CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 155 (Word version) -- Senator Nutt: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE BMW MANUFACTURING CO., LLC UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND BMW MANUFACTURING CO., LLC FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE SPARTANBURG COMMUNITY AND THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 156 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-80 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE, TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION, AND TO PROHIBIT AN AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 16-1-10, RELATING TO A LIST OF EXCEPTIONS FOR FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS, SO AS TO ADD FENTANYL-INDUCED HOMICIDE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 157 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-27-1105, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE QUALIFIED INDEPENDENT THIRD PARTY AND TO ALLOW AN ELECTRIC UTILITY TO INCLUDE STORM RECOVERY COSTS FOR HURRICANE HELENE ITS COST OF CAPITAL FROM THE DATE OF THE STROM THROUGH THE ISSUANCE OF STORM RECOVERY BONDS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 58-27-1110, RELATING TO THE PETITION FOR FINANCING ORDER AND REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO ALLOW AN ELECTRIC UTILITY TO DEFER THE REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF A FINANCING ORDER.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 158 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-15-36 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR COURT ORDERED THIRD-PARTY MONITORING AS AN ADDITIONAL CONDITION FOR BOND AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 159 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: 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 REVISE THE PREVIOUS OFFENSE OF RETAIL THEFT TO CREATE THE OFFENSES OF ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME AND ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME OF AN AGGRAVATED NATURE, TO PROVIDE A GRADUATED PENALTY STRUCTURE, AND TO REVISE NECESSARY DEFINITIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 160 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "DIETITIAN LICENSURE COMPACT ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 1 TO CHAPTER 21, TITLE 40, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PURPOSES, FUNCTIONS, OPERATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS FOR THE COMPACT; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-20-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE DIETETICS LICENSURE ACT, SO AS TO REVISE A DEFINITION; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-20-60, RELATING TO APPLICATIONS FOR LICENSURE UNDER THE DIETETICS LICENSURE ACT, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS OF APPLICANTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 161 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 20 TO TITLE 44, CHAPTER 53, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ADOPTION OF A STATE PREFERRED DRUG LIST; PROHIBIT PREFERENCING COVERAGE OF AN OPIOID PRESCRIPTION TREATMENT OVER NON-OPIOID TREATMENT; PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION OF AN EDUCATIONAL PAMPHLET BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH REGARDING NON-OPIOID ALTERNATIVES FOR THE TREATMENT OF PAIN; PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR PRACTITIONERS OFFERING NON-OPIOID TREATMENT; AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 162 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 44-63-100, RELATING TO THE PROCESS THROUGH WHICH A PERSON MAY MAKE CHANGES TO HIS BIRTH CERTIFICATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT GENDER CHANGES TO A PERSON'S BIRTH CERTIFICATE MAY ONLY BE TO CHANGE FROM MALE TO FEMALE OR FROM FEMALE TO MALE, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES AND TIMING LIMITATIONS OF GENDER CHANGES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 163 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 47 TO TITLE 34 SO AS TO PROHIBIT A GOVERNING AUTHORITY FROM ACCEPTING OR REQUIRING PAYMENT USING CENTRAL BANK DIGITAL CURRENCY OR PARTICIPATING IN A TEST OF CENTRAL BANK DIGITAL CURRENCY; TO PERMIT INDIVIDUALS OR BUSINESSES USING DIGITAL CURRENCY FOR TRANSACTIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT DIGITAL ASSETS MAY NOT BE SINGLED OUT FOR DISPARATE TAX TREATMENT; TO PROVIDE THAT DIGITAL CURRENCY TRANSACTION MAY BE TAXED IF THE TAXATION IS THE SAME AS IF THE TRANSACTION USED UNITED STATES LEGAL TENDER; TO PROVIDE THAT DIGITAL CURRENCY OPERATIONS MAY BE NOT BE SUBJECTED TO DISPARATE ZONING TREATMENT; TO PROVIDE THAT DIGITAL ASSET MINING BUSINESS OPERATIONS SHALL NOT PLACE ANY ADDITIONAL STRESS ON THE ELECTRICAL GRID FOR WHICH THEY ARE CONNECTED AND TO PROVIDE THAT DIGITAL MINING BUSINESSES MUST PROVIDE CERTAIN INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION UPON REQUEST; TO PROVIDE THAT THOSE ENGAGED IN DIGITAL MINING OPERATIONS DO NOT HAVE TO OBTAIN CERTAIN LICENSES AND THAT THOSE WHO PROVIDE CERTAIN SERVICES RELATED TO DIGITAL MINING OR STAKING ARE NOT OFFERING A SECURITY; TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CAN PROSECUTE AN INDIVIDUAL WHO OR BUSINESS THAT FRAUDULENTLY CLAIM TO BE OFFERING DIGITAL ASSET MINING AS SERVICE OR STAKING AS A SERVICE; AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

S. 164 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 1-23-120, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES FOR REGULATIONS, SO AS TO TOLL THE PERIOD OF LEGISLATIVE REVIEW FROM THE SECOND FRIDAY IN MAY THROUGH THE SECOND MONDAY IN JANUARY; AND TO ADD A PROVISION REVISING THE PERIOD OF LEGISLATIVE REVIEW FOR REGULATIONS FILED ON JANUARY 14, 2025, TO ONE HUNDRED THIRTEEN DAYS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 165 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA CONSERVATION EDUCATION ACT"; AND BY ADDING SECTION 50-9-980 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSERVATION EDUCATION FUND AND THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH REVENUES IN THE FUND MAY BE EXPENDED.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 166 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "EMERGENCY ORDER BALANCE OF POWERS ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-420, RELATING TO PROCLAMATIONS BY THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS IN WHICH A PROCLAMATION SHALL TERMINATE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 25-1-440, RELATING TO DECLARATIONS OF A STATE OF EMERGENCY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CONDITIONS IN WHICH A DECLARED STATE OF EMERGENCY SHALL TERMINATE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 167 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA WATERWAYS PROTECTION ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 50-9-975 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA WATERWAYS PROTECTION FUND AND THE PURPOSES FOR WHICH REVENUES IN THE FUND MAY BE EXPENDED; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-3215 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT A TAX NOTICE FOR WATERCRAFT MUST INCLUDE A WATERWAYS PROTECTION FEE OF THREE DOLLARS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 168 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-215(N), (P), AND (S), RELATING TO CONCEALABLE WEAPON PERMITS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PERMITS TO BE AUTOMATICALLY ISSUED UPON CERTAIN CONDITIONS AND TO REVISE THE MANNER IN WHICH OUT-OF-STATE PERMITS MUST BE HONORED.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 169 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-150-70, RELATING TO TEMPORARY REGULATIONS, INITIAL AVAILABILITY OF TICKETS, AND ALTERNATE USE FOR NONWINNING TICKETS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT LOTTERY SALES BY CHECKS, CREDIT CARDS, CHARGE CARDS, OR OTHER FORM OF DEFERRED PAYMENT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-150-210, RELATING TO SALES RESTRICTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT ALL LOTTERY SALES MUST BE MADE IN PERSON AT LICENSED LOTTERY RETAILERS OR LOCATIONS APPROVED BY THE LOTTERY COMMISSION AND FURTHER PROHIBITING THE USE OF LOTTERY COURIER SERVICES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 170 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-7-387 SO AS TO REQUIRE A LICENSED FACILITY TO ADOPT AND IMPLEMENT POLICIES TO PREVENT EXPOSURE TO SURGICAL SMOKE BY REQUIRING THE USE OF A SMOKE EVACUATION SYSTEM.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 171 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 75, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR WASTE TIRE MANIFESTS AND RELATED PROVISIONS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 5 TO CHAPTER 75, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROHIBIT THE INSTALLATION OF UNSAFE USED TIRES, AND RELATED PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-96-170(E) THROUGH (F), RELATING TO WASTE TIRES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A COUNTY MAY CHARGE UP TO FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS AS A TIPPING FEE; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-96-170(N) THROUGH (S), RELATING TO WASTE TIRES, SO AS TO AMEND THE COLLECTION OF THE FEE TO INCLUDE USED TIRES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPLICATION OF THE WASTE TIRE FEE AND RELATED WASTE TIRE FUNDS, TO REMOVE THE REBATE PROVISIONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A STATEWIDE MARKET INFRASTRUCTURE FOR TIRE-DERIVED PRODUCTS; TO DIRECT THE CODE COMMISSIONER TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 172 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "CAMPUS FREE EXPRESSION ACT"; BY ADDING ARTICLE 4 TO TITLE 59, CHAPTER 101, SO AS TO LIST AND PROTECT FREE EXPRESSION RIGHTS; TO IDENTIFY PUBLICLY-ACCESSIBLE OUTDOOR AREAS OF PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION CAMPUSES AS PUBLIC FORUMS; TO GUARANTEE EXISTING EXPRESSIVE ACTIVITY PROTECTIONS; TO PERMIT PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO CHARGE SECURITY FEES FOR EXPRESSIVE ACTIVITIES BASED ON NEUTRAL CRITERIA; TO PROVIDE FOR CAUSES OF ACTION FOLLOWING A VIOLATION OF EXPRESSIVE RIGHTS; AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 173 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-90, RELATING TO THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF SALES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GROSS PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF EYEGLASSES IS THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE PURCHASE LESS ANY INSURANCE BENEFITS PAID.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 174 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-21-870, RELATING TO PERSONAL WATERCRAFT AND BOATING SAFETY, SO AS TO REQUIRE ANY PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF THIRTEEN TO WEAR A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE ON ANY SIZE VESSEL UNLESS THE PERSON IS IN THE CABIN OR BELOW DECK OF THE VESSEL.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 175 (Word version) -- Senator Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "HELPING ALLEVIATE LAWFUL OBSTRUCTION (HALO) ACT"; BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-1092 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF IMPEDING, INTERFERING, THREATENING, OR HARASSING A FIRST RESPONDER ENGAGED IN THE LAWFUL PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 176 (Word version) -- Senator Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS AND PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS, SO AS TO CORRECT A CROSS REFERENCE IN THE DEFINITION OF "ATTEST", "PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTING", AND "SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-30, RELATING TO LICENSING OR REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS AND FORMS FOR ISSUANCE OF REPORT BY PERSON OTHER THAN CPA OR PA, SO AS TO INCLUDE ELECTRONIC FILES AND METADATA TAGS AMONG THE ITEMS THAT MUST MEET CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS TO USE THE TITLE CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT, AND ABBREVIATIONS CPA AND PA; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-35, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSE TO PRACTICE, SO AS TO REVISE THE EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE, REVISE WHAT AN APPLICANT MUST HAVE ON RECORD WITH THE BOARD TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE WITH CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS, REVISE CERTAIN TIME REQUIREMENTS RELATED TO THE CPA EXAM, AND REVISE THE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE AN APPLICANT MUST HAVE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-40, RELATING TO THE GRANTING OR RENEWAL OF REGISTRATION TO PRACTICE AS FIRM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO PERFORMS COMPILATION SERVICES MUST HOLD A REGISTRATION ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 40-2-40 AND PROVIDE THAT OWNERSHIP MAY ALSO BE HELD THROUGH A REVOCABLE GRANTOR TRUST; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-70, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF BOARD, SO AS TO ADD REVIEW AND PROVIDE INPUT ON PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE CHANGES RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTING AS A POWER OF THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-80, RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS OF COMPLAINTS OR OTHER INFORMATION SUGGESTING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INSPECTOR-INVESTIGATOR MUST HAVE BEEN LICENSED AS A CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT FOR AT LEAST THE PREVIOUS FIVE YEARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-240, RELATING TO LICENSING OF PERSONS LICENSED IN ANOTHER STATE, SO AS TO REVISE HOW PERSONS LICENSED IN OTHER STATES CAN BE LICENSED IN THIS STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-245, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS TO PRACTICE IF LICENSED OUT OF STATE, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS TO PRACTICE IF LICENSED OUT OF STATE; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 40-2-20(18), SECTION 40-2-35(H), AND SECTION 40-2-35(I) OF THE S.C. CODE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 177 (Word version) -- Senator Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 17-13-180 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SCENT OF MARIJUANA ALONE DOES NOT PROVIDE LAW ENFORCEMENT WITH REASONABLE SUSPICION OR PROBABLE CAUSE TO SUPPORT A STOP, SEARCH, SEIZURE, OR ARREST.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 178 (Word version) -- Senator Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-5-320, RELATING TO APPLICATION FOR MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVER'S LICENSES AND VOTER REGISTRATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT EACH STATE IDENTIFICATION CARD APPLICATION OR MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVER'S LICENSE APPLICATION, INCLUDING RENEWAL APPLICATIONS, SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES SHALL SERVE AS AN APPLICATION FOR VOTER REGISTRATION; TO ELIMINATE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE APPLICANT SIGN A SEPARATE VOTER REGISTRATION PORTION OF THE APPLICATION IN ORDER TO REGISTER; TO PROVIDE THAT THE APPLICANT SHALL CONSENT TO THE USE OF HIS SIGNATURE FROM HIS STATE IDENTIFICATION CARD OR DRIVER'S LICENSE ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES FOR VOTER REGISTRATION PURPOSES; AND TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE BY WHICH AN INDIVIDUAL CAN DECLINE REGISTRATION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 179 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-7-1990, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY AND RELEASE OF RECORDS AND INFORMATION, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE DISCLOSURE OF CASE RECORDS TO COUNTY AND STATE GUARDIAN AD LITEM STAFF AND THE STATE CHILD ADVOCATE'S DIVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-550, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS AND INFORMATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE APPOINTED GUARDIAN AD LITEM CAN SHARE CASE RECORDS TO COUNTY AND STATE GUARDIAN AD LITEM STAFF AND THE STATE CHILD ADVOCATE'S DIVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-700, RELATING TO THE DIVISION FOR REVIEW OF THE FOSTER CARE OF CHILDREN, SO AS TO UPDATE STATUTES RELATED TO THE STATE CHILD ADVOCATE'S DIVISION; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-1340, RELATING TO THE DIRECTOR AND OTHER STAFF, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-1360, RELATING TO THE ANNUAL REPORT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 180 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS PERTAINING TO DOMESTIC ABUSE, SO AS TO INCLUDE PERSONS WHO ARE OR WERE DATING TO THE LIST OF PERSONS DEFINED AS "HOUSEHOLD MEMBER"; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 20-4-40, RELATING TO PETITIONS FOR AN ORDER OF PROTECTION, SO AS TO INCLUDE A PARENT, GUARDIAN, LEGAL COUNSEL, OR OTHER APPROPRIATE ADULT AS A PERSON WHO CAN PETITION ON BEHALF MINORS IN THE PERSON'S HOUSEHOLD.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 181 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF JANIE BROOKS "BOOT" RANDOLPH OF RICHLAND COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER LARGE AND LOVING FAMILY AND HER MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 182 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF THE HONORABLE KAY PATTERSON AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 183 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Fernandez and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-80 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF DRUG-INDUCED HOMICIDE AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 16-1-10, RELATING TO THE EXEMPTION FROM THE CATEGORIZATION OF FELONIES AND MISDEMEANORS, SO AS TO INCLUDE DRUG-INDUCED HOMICIDE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 184 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Young and Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 15-3-710 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BASIS FOR LIABILITY FOR A PERSON OR ESTABLISHMENT WHO UNLAWFULLY FURNISHES ALCOHOL TO AN INDIVIDUAL WHO INJURES A THIRD PARTY BASED UPON WHAT THE FURNISHER KNEW OR SHOULD HAVE KNOWN UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES; TO SPECIFY WHEN THE RIGHT OF ACTION IS NOT AVAILABLE, AND TO PROVIDE THE EVIDENTIARY STANDARD FOR VISIBLE INTOXICATION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 185 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPON THE PASSING OF DR. LONNIE RANDOLPH JR. OF COLUMBIA AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 186 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND CONGRATULATE HOPKINS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN RICHLAND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT ONE ON RECEIVING A RATING OF EXCELLENT ON ITS 2023-2024 SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOL REPORT CARD AND ON BEING NAMED A CERTIFIED VISIBLE LEARNING SCHOOL BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 187 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF LENORA ABRAHAM "NANCY" EADDY OF FLORENCE COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER LARGE AND LOVING FAMILY AND HER MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 188 (Word version) -- Senators Devine and Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF BARBARA JEAN PERRY BEATY DOTSON OF RICHLAND COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER LOVING FAMILY AND HER MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 189 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-3-605 SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF ASSAULT AND BATTERY WITH BODILY FLUIDS, PROVIDE FOR TESTING OF COMMUNICABLE AND BLOODBORNE DISEASES, PROVIDE PENALTIES, AND PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 190 (Word version) -- Senators Adams and Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 31-12-30, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT", SO AS TO INCLUDE AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 31-12-210, RELATING TO ISSUANCE OF OBLIGATIONS FOR A REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT BY MUNICIPALITY, SO AS TO INCREASE THE TIME LIMIT OF WHICH AN OBLIGATION MUST BE ISSUED; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 12-10-88, RELATING TO REDEVELOPMENT FEES, SO AS TO UPDATE THE DEFINITION OF CLOSED OR REALIGNED FEDERAL INSTALLATIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 191 (Word version) -- Senator Rice: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-13-150, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT THAT A PERSON SERVED A SEARCH WARRANT MUST BE FURNISHED A COPY OF THE WARRANT AND THE SUPPORTING AFFIDAVIT, SO AS TO REMOVE THE AFFIDAVIT REQUIREMENT AND PROVIDE FOR DELIVERY OF A COPY OF THE INVENTORY IF DEMANDED BY THE PERSON UPON WHOM THE SEARCH WARRANT IS SERVED.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 192 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Johnson and Fernandez: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2950, RELATING TO IMPLIED CONSENT TO TESTING FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, PROCEDURES, AND INFERENCE OF DUI, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY TO DETERMINE WHICH TESTS SHALL BE ADMINISTERED, REMOVE THE REQUIREMENT THAT A BREATH TEST BE ADMINISTERED BEFORE OTHER TESTS, AND PROVIDE FOR THE TRAINING OF PERSONNEL TO BECOME QUALIFIED TO OBTAIN BLOOD TEST SAMPLES; BY AMENDING SECTION 24-13-100, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF A "NO PAROLE OFFENSE", SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OR FELONY DRIVING WITH AN UNLAWFUL ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION RESULTING IN DEATH IS NOT A "NO PAROLE OFFENSE"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2951, RELATING TO THE SUSPENSION OF A LICENSE FOR REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO TESTING OR FOR CERTAIN LEVEL OF ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION, TEMPORARY ALCOHOL LICENSES, RESTRICTED DRIVER'S LICENSES, AND PENALTIES, SO AS TO REMOVE THE TEMPORARY ALCOHOL LICENSE AND PROVIDE SUSPENSION PENALTIES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2953, RELATING TO INCIDENT SITE AND BREATH TEST SITE VIDEO RECORDING, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS MUST MAKE REASONABLE EFFORTS TO ENSURE VIDEO RECORDING OF THE STOP, TESTS, AND ARREST OF A PERSON FOR A DUI.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 193 (Word version) -- Senators Reichenbach, Sabb and Williams: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF CASHUA DRIVE IN THE CITY OF FLORENCE IN FLORENCE COUNTY FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH SECOND LOOP ROAD TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH UNITED STATES HIGHWAY 76 "CURTIS KERSHAW SUMMERFORD MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 194 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DARCI STRICKLAND FOR HER NOTEWORTHY CAREER IN JOURNALISM AND TO CONGRATULATE HER AS SHE BEGINS HER RETIREMENT AFTER TWENTY-SEVEN YEARS OF OUTSTANDING REPORTING WITH WLTX-TV.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 195 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Davis and Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO DECLARE THE MONTH OF MARCH 2025 AS "THE CELEBRATION OF THE BICENTENNIAL OF THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE'S VISIT DURING HIS FAREWELL TOUR OF THE NATION IN 1825" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

S. 196 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 91 TO TITLE 38 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, ESTABLISH LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, EXEMPTIONS, AND TYPES OF LICENSES, REQUIRE AN EXAMINATION FOR LICENSURE, PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS FOR EXAMINATION, REQUIRE CONTINUING EDUCATION, ESTABLISH A PROCESS FOR RENEWAL, SET STANDARDS OF CONDUCT FOR ADJUSTERS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DENIAL, NONRENEWAL, OR REVOCATION OF A LICENSE AND PENALTIES, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY ADDING CHAPTER 92 TO TITLE 38 SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS, ESTABLISH LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS AND TYPES OF LICENSES, REQUIRE AN EXAMINATION FOR LICENSURE AND PROVIDE EXEMPTIONS TO EXAMINATION, PROVIDE FOR THE DENIAL, NONRENEWAL, OR REVOCATION OF A LICENSE, REQUIRE A BOND OR LETTER OF CREDIT, REQUIRE CONTINUING EDUCATION, ALLOW FOR FEES, AND SET STANDARDS OF CONDUCT FOR PUBLIC ADJUSTERS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; TO AMEND SECTION 38-1-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION; AND BY REPEALING CHAPTERS 47 AND 48 OF TITLE 38.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.

S. 197 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR THE CAMBRIDGE ACADEMY VOLLEYBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR A STELLAR SEASON AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM ON WINNING THE 2024 SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION CLASS 1A STATE TITLE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 198 (Word version) -- Senator Garrett: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE NINETY SIX HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND, DIRECTORS, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS FOR A REMARKABLE SEASON AND TO CONGRATULATE THEM FOR WINNING THE 2024 SOUTH CAROLINA BAND DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION CLASS A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 199 (Word version) -- Senator Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-23-400 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT EVERY PUBLIC SCHOOL RESTROOM AND CHANGING FACILITY THAT IS ACCESSIBLE BY MULTIPLE PERSONS MUST BE DESIGNATED FOR USE ONLY BY MEMBERS OF ONE SEX, TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR A PRIVATE CAUSE OF ACTION FOR THOSE AGGRIEVED BY A FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS ACT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 200 (Word version) -- Senators Graham, Hutto, Sabb, Jackson, Williams, Allen, Matthews, Tedder, Devine, Ott, Sutton, Walker, Adams, Alexander, Bennett, Blackmon, Campsen, Cash, Chaplin, Climer, Corbin, Cromer, Davis, Elliott, Fernandez, Gambrell, Garrett, Goldfinch, Grooms, Hembree, Johnson, Kennedy, Kimbrell, Leber, Martin, Massey, Nutt, Peeler, Rankin, Reichenbach, Rice, Stubbs, Turner, Verdin, Young and Zell: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO REMEMBER AND CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF UNITED STATES CONGRESSMAN JOHN MCKEE SPRATT JR. OF YORK COUNTY AND TO HONOR HIS REMARKABLE COMMITMENT TO THE CITIZENS OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

The PRESIDENT ordered the following invitations placed on the Calendar:
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 - 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Members Only, Reception, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln Street, hosted by the SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION

Tuesday, January 14, 2025 - 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Members only, Dinner, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln Street, hosted by THE RILEY INSTITUTE AT FURMAN UNIVERSITY

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Members and Staff, Breakfast, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by the BLEEDING DISORDERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Members and Staff, Luncheon, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Members Only, Reception, Parker Poe, 1221 Main Street, hosted by SC DESIGN CONSTRUCTION

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Members only, Reception and Dinner, USC Pastides Alumni Center, 900 Senate Street, hosted by the SOUTH CAROLINA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 - 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Members and Staff, Reception, The Palmetto Club, hosted by the WINE & SPIRITS WHOLESALERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Thursday, January 16, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Members and Staff, Breakfast, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by the FOUNDATION FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND

Tuesday, January 21, 2025 - 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Members only, Reception, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln Street, hosted by the MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Wednesday, January 22, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Members and Staff, Breakfast, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by the NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF SOUTH CAROLINA, INC.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025 - 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Members and Staff, Luncheon, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by the SC STUDENT LOAN CORPORATION

Wednesday, January 22, 2025 - 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Members only, Reception, The Palmetto Club, hosted by the NORTH EASTERN STRATEGIC ALLIANCE (NESA)

Wednesday, January 22, 2025 - 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Members and Staff, Reception, Burr Forman Law Firm, 1221 Main Street, hosted by the TRANSPORTATION ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Thursday, January 23, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Members only, Breakfast, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by the SC ASSOCIATION OF SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 - 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Members only, Breakfast, South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Office, 1301 Gervais Street, hosted by the SOUTH CAROLINA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Members and Staff, Reception, Capital Center Lobby, 1201 Main Street, hosted by the CITY OF COLUMBIA

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 - 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Members and Staff, Reception, Bourbon, 1214 Main Street, hosted by the CONSERVATION VOTERS OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 - 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Members and Staff, Reception, Burr Forman Law Firm, 1221 Main Street, hosted by the PALMETTO BROADBAND COALITION

Wednesday, January 29, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Members only, Breakfast, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by AMIKIDS
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 - 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Members only, Luncheon, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by the SC ASSOCIATION FOR COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Wednesday, January 29, 2025 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Members and Staff, Reception, Capital Center Atrium, 1201 Main Street, hosted by the SOUTH CAROLINA BAR ASSOCIATION

Thursday, January 30, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Members and Staff, Breakfast, 112 Blatt Building, hosted by the SOUTH CAROLINA FRATERNAL ORDER OF THE POLICE

Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education polled out S. 62 favorable:

S. 62 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Rice and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-110, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-115, RELATING TO THE STANDARD APPLICATION PROCESS, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS AND SCHOOLS SEEKING TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-120, RELATING TO ADMINISTRATION OF FUND, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE K-12 EDUCATION LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-125, RELATING TO FUNDS TO CREATE, OVERSEE, AND THE ADMINISTER PROGRAM, SUSPENSION OF ACCOUNTS, UNUSED FUNDS, AND TERMINATION OF SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-130, RELATING TO TERMINATION OF SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT'S PROGRAM; NOTIFICATION, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-135, RELATING TO LIMITATIONS ON SCHOLARSHIPS, SO AS TO PROVIDE LIMITATIONS ON THE NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS THAT MAY BE AWARDED; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-140, RELATING TO THE APPLICATION APPROVAL PROCESS FOR EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDER MUST CERTIFY ANNUALLY TO THE DEPARTMENT THAT IT MEETS ALL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-145, RELATING TO PROCEDURES TO INFORM STUDENTS AND THEIR PARENTS OF ELIGIBILITY AND APPROVED EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-150, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS, DEPARTMENT, AND EDUCATION OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SURETY BOND IS REQUIRED OF EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDERS WHO EXCEED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS IN QUALIFYING EXPENSES AND TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-160, RELATING TO THE K-12 EDUCATION LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP REVIEW PANEL, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ITS COMPOSITION AND PURPOSES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-165, RELATING TO STUDENT TRANSFER POLICY, SO AS TO CLARIFY STUDENT TRANSFER REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-8-170, RELATING TO IMMEDIATE PARTICIPATION IN A SPORT BY A TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES ; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 59-150-350, RELATING TO THE EDUCATION LOTTERY ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.

Hembree                   Rankin                    Peeler
Grooms                    Young                     Turner
Rice                      Massey                    Cash
Elliott                   Fernandez                 Nutt

Allen                     Sabb

Jackson                   M. Johnson

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator JACKSON rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed that if and when the Senate stands adjourned on Thursday, January 16, 2025, that it will adjourn to meet next Tuesday, January 21, 2025, Wednesday, January 22, 2025, and Thursday, January 23, 2025, under the provisions of Rule 1B.

On motion of Senator SABB, with unanimous consent, Senator SABB will occupy the seat of Senator HUTTO during his absence.

Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:

Initial Appointment, Abbeville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Erin B. Kollman, 200 Dundas Road, Abbeville, SC 29620-2342 VICE Phillip Ray

Initial Appointment, Dorchester County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Randall L. Charpia, 114 Dorchester Ave., Summerville, SC 29438-3740 VICE Jacquelyn Jenkins

Initial Appointment, Dorchester County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2023, and to expire April 30, 2027
Margie A. Pizarro, 1204 Congressional Blvd., Summerville, SC 29483-5024 VICE Janice Simmons

Ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, I stand before you today with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and humility. To be chosen by you, my fellow Senators, to serve as the PRESIDENT of this distinguished Body is a profound honor -- one I do not take lightly. I would not be here today without the blessings from our Lord, the trust of the people of District 1, and the support from my loving family.

The Senate is more than a forum for individual or group interests. It is a place where diverse voices converge, debates are refined, and decisions are made that shape the future of South Carolina. With the deepest respect for this institution and for each of you, I humbly accept the responsibility to preside over our proceedings with integrity, impartiality and fairness, so that we may be a Senate that serves all South Carolinians.

The South Carolina Senate is steeped in history, home to some of the most principled and visionary leaders our State has ever known. The portraits that grace this Chamber remind us of the legacy we inherit and the weight of the work we are called to do. I solemnly pledge to uphold that legacy, ensuring that our collective efforts honor the distinguished history of this Body.

As your PRESIDENT, I will strive to be impartial and fair in conducting our business. Furthermore, I am committed to ensuring that our decisions are informed by thoughtful deliberation and mutual respect -- the hallmarks of this Chamber.

The work before us is significant. South Carolina is a State rich in history and potential -- yet not without its challenges. As we deliberate on policy and debate the best path forward for our communities, I will endeavor to foster a culture of collaboration, civility and shared purpose.

I will also continue to turn to the wisdom found in scripture. Proverbs 11:14 reminds us, "Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." We are those counselors, entrusted with guiding South Carolina through both opportunities and trials. With honest debate, careful deliberation, and with civility and respect, we will safeguard the future of our State.

Now, to those of you serving as members of the State Senate for the first time, I offer words of welcome. We have navigated through the political process of elections and elections are about differences. However, governing is about finding common ground. In this august Chamber, the forty-six of us communicate through words in a certain manner shaped by the traditions of the Senate.

As we rise to speak on any issues in this Chamber, I encourage all of us to take to heart the words of St. Peter in his letter to the Colossians, 4: 6, "Let your speech be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."

I look forward to working alongside each of you to ensure that this Chamber remains a beacon of thoughtful action and meaningful deliberation. As we move forward to meet the expectations of the people of South Carolina, let us do so with dignity, honor and grace.

Thank you for placing your trust in me to serve as PRESIDENT of this esteemed Body. May God bless this Senate, and my God bless the great State of South Carolina. Thank you.

On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the remarks of PRESIDENT ALEXANDER were ordered printed in the Journal.

Good afternoon, I am Allen Blackmon for those of you who have not met me. I am serving Senate District 27 which includes the great counties of Chesterfield, Kershaw and Lancaster. First, I would like to introduce my wife, Jane. She has put up with my shenanigans for almost forty-six years -- we have an anniversary coming up soon. We have a son who lives in Greenville and a daughter who lives in Heath Springs. We have a grandson and four granddaughters. Night before last, I had the pleasure of hearing Senator JACKSON speak -- well done. It made me reflect on what a great institution we have here listening to a man of his caliber speaking. I'm honored and humbled to be a part of this Body.

I look forward to maintaining the support, decorum, and the tradition of the Senate. I know PRESIDENT ALEXANDER will hold us to that regard. I know that good things cannot happen by myself so I hope we can build relationships of trust and honor so we can do good things together. I look forward to hopefully building a lifetime friendship with each and every one of you Senators and also with our staff members. I look forward to working together so we can do good things for our beautiful State.

As we move forward with legislative matters, I will be passionate about certain issues. But after the vote is taken, no matter the outcome, I hope we'll shake hands and remain friends. I was hired for this job with a constituency of 110,000 just like other Senators. Every vote I make will be made prayerfully, but with the constituents back home fully in mind. I'm serving to leave this place better for my children and grandchildren. At the end of every session, I hope we ask ourselves one question -- did we make South Carolina a better place to live, work, worship and raise a family? I hope that answer will be an absolute yes. Thank you for your time.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed members of the South Carolina Senate, my name is JD Chaplin. I am the newly elected Senator from District 29, representing portions of Chesterfield, Darlington, Lee, Marlboro and Sumter. It is an honor and privilege to stand before you today.

As we gather in this esteemed Chamber, I feel compelled to start by paying tribute to the institution of the Senate. This Body has been graced by strong figures throughout our history and one name that stands out is the late State Senator from Darlington, James Pierce "Spot" Monzingo. Spot attended Clemson University where he then transferred to the University of South Carolina and was elected to the State House when he was twenty years old. He was then elected to the Senate when he was 24, where he proceeded to serve until his death -- for 31 years. His dedication and service to our State serve as a reminder of the tremendous responsibility we all bear and the potential we possess to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our constituents.

As I step into this new role, I bring with me the legacy of my family, whose roots in South Carolina date all the way back to 1678. The Chaplins have farmed for generations, embodying the spirit or perseverance and community that define our great State. The values of hard work and determination that my family has instilled in me will guide me as I strive to serve my district and my State with honor and integrity.

Let me also take a moment to highlight the rich history of my district. We are the proud home to unique cultural landmarks, such as the legendary Lizard Man of Bishopville, the thrilling Darlington Southern 500 NASCAR race, and Marlboro County's beloved Blenheim Ginger ale. These elements reflect not only the vibrant culture but the tenacity and the innovation that have shaped our identity as South Carolinians. Moreover, our district has a robust history in manufacturing, with leading companies like Nucor, Sunoco and Willamette paper making significant contributions to our economy. In fact, Sunoco is the most valuable company headquartered in South Carolina -- boasting a remarkable market cap of a little more than $5 billion. This legacy of industrial strength reminds us of the economic potential we possess and the opportunities that lie ahead.

As I take my seat in this Chamber, I would like to outline my primary goal -- to improve the quality of life for the people in my district, who once thrived as an agricultural and industrial powerhouse in the State. I wholeheartedly believe that we can reclaim that status, and there is no reason our district cannot rise again, harnessing the combined strength of our history, our resources and our people.

In closing, I look forward to respectfully collaborating with each and every one of you, working collectively to create a brighter future for our districts and our State. Together we can honor those of the legacies that have come before us and champion the values that define South Carolina -- forging a new path for progress. Thank you.

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

Thank you Mr. PRESIDENT and colleagues. Mr. PRESIDENT, please excuse me if I inadvertently call you Mr. Speaker. It's no sign of disrespect, but after eight years of being in the other Chamber, it might take a little longer than a day for the debriefing to take effect. And, while this is just the first day, I can report back to my former colleagues across the hall that y'all are lot smarter and nicer than I'd been led to believe. Thank you for that!

First, I give thanks to the Lord and Savior for his grace, mercy and love -- which without, I would not be here today. I am much more fortunate than I deserve.

I want to thank my family members -- fourteen of them are here -- and my campaign manager. Without my family's unconditional love, I couldn't serve. I'm honored also to have the trust of the voters of SC Senate District 6 and thank them for placing their trust in me. My son is here today. He took his first law school exam (contracts) yesterday -- just down the street. Thirty-one years ago, I took that same exam. Senator YOUNG, I have known longer than any other Senator here, can probably empathize with me. I immediately left the exam, went back to where I lived and pulled out the student handbook because at that time, it wasn't on the internet. I was confident that I had failed, and I was looking for a way to figure out how to come back from academic probation. Fortunately, I had made much better than the "F" I imagined -- but I am certain it is not going to be as good a grade as my son's going to make -- when he finds out in a month or so.

As I weighed the importance of seniority in this Body, I considered changing my last name to "Aaron." But "E" in this instance got me to three out of thirteen (new members) and that is pretty good to start at number thirty-six out of forty-six -- not too bad. It's really nothing I can take credit for. It's really my parents, especially my mom. She had the foresight over fifty-four years ago to prepare for this day, and that is pretty amazing. For my ten other colleagues who are going to follow me, I'm sorry that your mothers weren't quite as insightful.

Now, one of the biggest differences -- and important to me -- I've observed so far between the House and Senate is the esteem with which this Body holds Clemson University. Mr. PRESIDENT, Mr. Chairman, Senator PEELER, the new Senator from Calhoun and I thank you very much.

Over the last eight years I've had the privilege of serving the residents of Greenville County in the South Carolina House. One thing I've learned is that a lot of people who reach out to me for help don't know for sure if I am responsible for helping to pick up their trash or sending their social security checks. I get that. They have lives that don't revolve around the details of federalism. They are working to take care of themselves, their children, their grandchildren, and most of them are just working to get by. Another thing I've learned is that very few people outside of this magnificent and spectacular building know or care about the differences between the House and Senate. They either see government working for them or not. I try to remember that as I work to improve the lives of our fellow South Carolinians. The relationships that my three former house colleagues and I have with our returning House members should only serve to strengthen the collaboration between these two chambers.

Also, I have to say that the most tireless worker and friend to South Carolina, its biggest advocate -- and I enjoy his friendship is Governor McMaster. With thirteen new Senators, which is twenty-eight percent of this Body -- this place will be different than it was just earlier this year. I'm confident that all thirteen new members will strive to honor the traditions of this institution that have served it and our State so well. I'm also confident that the thirty-two returning members will offer grace, understanding and guidance as the new members -- myself included -- are eager to try and make a difference.

I've heard multiple times over the past several weeks, and I'm sure you have too, some variation of this: "With a thirty-four member super majority, there is no excuse for not getting any legislative initiative done." I describe it as a great opportunity to get things done for South Carolina -- for us to use this short time to improve the lives of our citizens and the economic prosperity of our State. And if we don't, the voters who spoke loud and clear last month will make their voices heard again in four short years.

I've had the privilege of working for the past eight years with the Senators on the Greenville County Legislative Delegation and with others of you in this Body. I look forward to working with all of you and getting to know you all as we have the shared goal of making South Carolina a better place. Thank you very much.

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

Mr. PRESIDENT, colleagues, and distinguished guests, today I stand as a newly sworn-in Senator and servant. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and humility, as it is an honor to serve the people of Senate District 39 within the great state of South Carolina. I want to express my gratitude and deepest thanks to the people of my district who have placed their trust in me and allowed me to work for them, not as their superior but as their employee. I vow to serve you diligently, listen to your concerns, and fight for the principles that matter most to you and us as a community.

To my wife Darlene, thank you for being my foundation. Your strength, patience, and unwavering support have been my anchor throughout this journey. You have been there to listen when I needed guidance, to encourage me when I felt discouraged, to remind me why this mission is so important, and to chastise me when needed. I could not do this without you by my side. Above all, I provide thanks to my Heavenly Father. It is by His grace that I am here, and I pray for His continued guidance as I embark on this path. I seek His wisdom to lead and serve with integrity and ask His blessing on the work that we achieve in this Chamber.

I step into this role with a firm belief in the principles that have shaped us into this great State and Nation. I now believe more than ever that the duty of a politician is to ensure that the people remain free from the grasp of an overreaching government and free to live their lives according to their own convictions. I love the State of South Carolina, I love my district, and I love the people who make it what it is -- resilient, hardworking, and deeply rooted in the values of faith, family, and freedom.

To my colleagues in this Chamber, I look forward to working with you to tackle the challenges ahead. I pledge to approach our debates with respect, decisions with care, and our duties with seriousness. Together, I hope we can make South Carolina an even better place for generations to come. Thank you all for this opportunity, and may God bless all of us and the work that we do.

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

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. It is a profound honor that I stand before you today as the newly elected Senator for District 35. I am deeply humbled by the trust and support that the people of my district have placed in me. I carry with me the weight of these voices, their struggles and their hopes for a better tomorrow.

First, I want to thank my family -- my wife Sara, my son Edwards and my daughter Bailey. Theirs is the love and the encouragement that we all need during our life's journey. Their support has been my foundation and my constant inspiration. Thank you.

To the voters of District 35, thank you for believing in the vision that I set forth, a vision rooted in opportunity, fairness and progress. Our district is a unique blend of people -- hard working families, small businesses and educators all striving for the same goal -- a South Carolina where everyone has a chance to thrive.

I am here today not just as a representative of my district, but as a partner with this Body, and I share that with you -- the responsibility that we bear in this Chamber together. We will have different perspectives and priorities, but I truly believe that with collaborative commitment to one another and to the people of this State we can pull together.

Over the coming months and years, my focus will remain on addressing the challenges facing our communities -- strengthening our schools, supporting economic development, improving infrastructure, and ensuring that every South Carolinian has access to the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. I pledge to listen. I pledge to learn. I pledge to lead with integrity.

Together, we can create meaningful opportunities that will uplift not only District 35, but our entire great State. Thank you for welcoming me to this esteemed Body. I look forward to working along side you as we build a stronger more prosperous South Carolina. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. Ladies and gentlemen of the Senate and guests, I stand here before you truly honored and humbled for the opportunity to represent South Carolina and District 23 which is fully encased in Lexington County. I am honored by the trust and support that the voters and citizens of the county have placed in me to serve as their Senator.

As I begin, I want to thank my parents and wonderful wife who are here today. I want to thank my Lord and Savior who has blessed me in my life and all our lives, I am certain. We have a great State, a great Nation and that is all thanks to our Lord.

I come from a small, rural town of the Batesburg-Leesville area in Lexington County. My first job was working in chicken houses. I grew up there, in the country. My roots were planted in Lexington County before the American Revolution.

I will start by saying this is my second time speaking to the Senate of South Carolina. My first experience was several years ago, speaking to the Finance Committee regarding budget issues on behalf of Clemson University, where I served as Student Body President. I advocated on behalf of the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Science. The Senate and the House took care of Clemson University which in turn took care of our agriculture industry; teaching our farmers and our foresters and keeping that part of our economy and livelihoods thriving in our State. I will never forget the kindness that the Senate members showed me while I was in this Chamber.

Next, I received my degree at Clemson University and completed the Series 7 and 66 exams in Wealth Management. I went to law school at the University of South Carolina and became a prosecutor. I now work with my father in Batesburg-Leesville. With the jobs I have held, I have strived to serve the people, represent their interests, do good things and give back to make my community better. I look forward to doing that very thing here in the Senate with all of you. I look forward to attacking the tough issues, having the tough conversations and fixing those things for our citizens.

My strategy of approaching situations and circumstances is to pray first and listen to what the Lord says. I then look to the Constitution and what it says to me. I know together we can make a lot of great things happen for our State and we can keep improving the lives of our citizens.

Thank you again for welcoming me. I look forward to working together in this august Chamber with all of you extremely accomplished, wonderful individuals. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. Wow! Wow! This place is something else. It really is. I'm the Senator from Charleston, Colleton and Dorchester. The Lowcountry is the greatest place on the planet. I love where I come from, and I am so honored to represent my constituents in this august Chamber -- with the rest of you here, my colleagues of the Senate.

I want to recognize my wife, Michele. She just won a seat on the Charleston County School Board so I want to congratulate her from the Senate floor. Just an awesome thing -- she's a trustee and it looks like I'm going to be on the Corrections and Penology Committee. I was talking to Chairman MARTIN about that, and he was informing me some inmates are also called "trustees" -- so you can do whatever you want with that -- good luck. My youngest daughter, Kenzie Grace, is here. She's the person on the planet that has the most power over me -- for sure. We have two other children, Lucas and Savannah, and they couldn't be here today. I have a big family that supports me. My mom and dad are watching on TV; I'm sure.

I want to talk a little bit about my grandfather today. I'm wearing his paratrooper pin from World War II. He was a first-generation immigrant from Sweden where the Vikings come from and that's why I can grow this magnificent beard. He left and went back to Europe to fight the Axis powers, and he wore this pen on the parade grounds in France after America won. So I think he would be very proud if he were with us still and would recognize that this is probably the second most important place this pen's ever been worn. He was a great man and for this reason, I became a paratrooper, my brother became a paratrooper and my dad's a Vietnam vet. We've served our Country and I feel like this is just an extension of that service -- being elected to this office. You know our founding fathers warned us about factions and even parties. They thought it would tear the fabric of who we are as Americans apart. If we constantly fought one another in this factional manner -- and I come from the House as well as Senator ELLIOTT and others and we experience that sort of breeding -- that sort of fracture amongst members because we did break off into factions -- different caucuses -- and we called each other Liberty or Freedom or Military, whatever it was -- and our founding fathers warned us about that.

In the Federalist Papers especially, and even President Washington in his farewell address said, "The common and continual mischiefs of the spirit of party are sufficient to make it the interest and duty of a wise people to discourage and restrain that." I think there are a lot of wise people in this Chamber, in this august Body, who take that to heart and want to work together to do what's best for the people of South Carolina. I'm proud to be a part of that. I'm proud to be a part of this group that's committed to working together to accomplish the common good.

You know our PRESIDENT came and addressed the freshman at orientation, and he said, "You know the House floor, it's like the stock market floor, and the Senate is like a church." He's right. I'm looking around and I feel like I'm in a very special place, a Cathedral of sorts, but I don't think that the PRESIDENT meant that this was like a Pentecostal church or something -- you know. I don't think there's a drum set, I don't think we're going to be speaking tongues, and I hope we don't handle snakes -- and I don't want to try any poison -- but I appreciate that analogy that there are certain traditions and expectations of civility and respect for one another. I'm glad to be a part of this and commit to being a part of that spirit.

I wish to affirm commitment to values that have longed to find this historic Chamber respect, collaboration, and the enduring traditions that guide our work. What I know about the Senate is that it has always been a place where differing ideas converge, where debate sharpen solutions and where consensus is forged for the greater good. None of this is possible without a foundation of mutual respect and congeniality. These qualities are not just courtesies; they are essential tools in fulfilling our responsibility to the people of South Carolina. Our traditions remind us that we are part of something greater than ourselves. They call us to rise above partisanship to honor the process, and ensures fairness, and to engage one another with dignity even in the moments of disagreement. I spoke with my fellow Charleston Senator, Senator TEDDER, last year, and he said, "Man, you're going to like it over here. You're going to like how we debate" and he is so right.

May we strive to build bridges, strengthen our shared purpose, and preserve the integrity of this esteemed institution, the Senate of the great State of South Carolina. Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT.

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

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. Thank you for letting me speak this morning. My name is Roger Nutt. I have lived in Spartanburg County all my life. I have been married to my wife, Tracy for over 23 years. We have three children and four grandchildren. I am a child of God, and I know that Jesus Christ died for me so that I could live with him in heaven.

Now, I don't know what committee he is going to put me on, but I am already vying for a chairmanship, well see how that works out. I think there are a lot of people here trying to get chairmanships -- I'm sure. I started my political career back in 2008. I served on several boards and commissions and won a seat on Spartanburg County Council and served there for ten years. In 2020, I was elected to the State House and also served there for four years. Fun fact here from my first election in 2010 I never had an opponent, until this March. After March all of the sudden I had three opponents and ended up taking a spot in a runoff. For some reason suddenly my campaign was flushed with money, and I acquired just a miraculous number of new friends. So, thank you for that. Obviously, I ended up being elected to the Senate, and I was lucky enough to have another feather in my hat that we actually did put another Nutt in the Senate. So, you can thank me for that as well.

I promise to my constituents that I will continue listening to them and allow God to guide me in the way that I should go. And I want to thank District 12 for your faith in me and what we stand for. I appreciate your confidence in me and God bless this Body, this institution, and God bless the State of South Carolina. Thank you.

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

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. Ladies and gentlemen, what an honor it is to be standing before you. I want to first thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I truly hope that everything I say or do at this podium, now and as long as I am here, will certainly bring honor and glory to him.

Mr. PRESIDENT, I was told that I only get about three or four minutes. I can tell you that for the last 11 years, I have only dreamed of standing at a podium and not being restrained by a clock so I will do my best; but I make no promises. I am excited, ladies and gentlemen, to be here before you today.

My name is Russell Ott. I have had the honor of serving House District 93 in the House of Representatives for the last eleven years, and that was such an honor. I tell you that a part of me will always be a House member, and I say that certainly with pride, but I also cannot tell you how excited I am to be a part of this Body now. I understand the responsibility, Mr. PRESIDENT and ladies and gentlemen, that that brings with it. Honestly it is still overwhelming for a country boy from Calhoun County to be at this podium among such an esteemed Body. It has been forty years since there has been a Senator from Calhoun County in this room. And it has been 48 years since there has been a Senator from Senate District 26 not named Nikki Setzler. I do not take either of those distinctions lightly. While I do not expect to fill the shoes of either of those men, I do accept the responsibility of honoring the legacies of both of them.

My path to this place does not happen without a lot of amazing people -- a lot of amazing men and women. I see some of them in the room today. I think we would all acknowledge that we certainly do not do this on our own. It takes amazing people standing beside us, standing with us, to be able to accomplish winning any election. With that I was truly blessed to have amazing people. Most importantly, the voters of Senate District 26, which comprises parts of Calhoun, parts of Lexington and parts of Richland County. I look forward representing their voices and their interests amongst each of you.

I want to acknowledge my family. They are not with us today. My mother and my father are off representing the interest of farmers across the State in Myrtle Beach, but I am certainly not here without them. I am the son of Linda Ott who was public school teacher born and raised in the upstate, Greer, South Carolina. She met Harry Ott at Clemson University, and somehow, he convinced her to leave the upstate to go home with him, marry him and reside in Calhoun County. I tell you that because I am not sure that there were two more different people at the beginning of their lives. My mother comes from a very conservative family from the upstate. My father comes from a family of farmers from the lowcountry. They have created a beautiful life for themselves, for myself, and for my brother. They did that by working together. That is a lesson I have learned from them, and I look forward to using that here with every one of you -- a sense of working together.

Also, I want to tell you about my two sons, Lawson and Bryce. Lawson is a junior right now. Bryce is a sophomore. I told both of them that their time would be much better served staying in class today -- trying to make sure that they can go on and do whatever else they want to do in life. I think, first and foremost, we must set priorities, and the priority for them was to be in class today. I am sure they will be watching this later, and I want them to know that everything I do is for them, as I know it is for each one of you. We want to create a better life for our kids and for our families. We want to make sure that they have opportunities to stay here in this great State one day, if that is what they choose to do. I am unbelievably proud of them and look forward to the amazing things they are going to do in life.

While I am thinking about it, Mr. PRESIDENT, I want to say thank you to you, to the staff that is on the desk, to Senate Security, and to the staff in the Gressette building. Over the course of the last few weeks. I think I am speaking on behalf of all the freshman class, you all have gone above and beyond to make us feel welcomed and to make sure that we have had absolutely everything that we need. You are all first class, and I look forward to working with you on a daily basis.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am just a farmer at heart. I see some other farmers around this room, and I look forward to serving with them. I look forward to speaking on the farmer's behalf. I absolutely love springtime in South Carolina. As a farmer, each year we get to put seeds in the ground. We get to watch those seeds sprout, and then we have an opportunity -- we get to work hard. We get to watch that crop grow. A lot of that growth depends on what we put into it.

It is not lost on me the parallels between that and the job that we are tasked with doing in this room. I believe that we are only successful as a whole. I am only as successful as those of you that will be willing to work with me and vice versa. So, I want you to know that I certainly am coming with a sense of togetherness -- regardless of party, regardless of where we are from, regardless of our life experiences. I believe that we have an opportunity to lead this great State and make something beautiful, and we can do that together. That is what I am so excited about -- the opportunity at the end of the day to make this the greatest State that it can possibly be. We do that by working together, and I cannot wait to get started. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.

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

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. We're doing good on time is what Johnson said over there. I'm going to try not to mess that up. Mr. PRESIDENT, Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen of this hallowed Chamber it is my honor and privilege to come to you today and tell you a story -- a story of a simple man that humbly accepted the call of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ -- a path of service to our great State. This man, Mr. PRESIDENT, was born in beautiful Greenville, South Carolina, to a father that selfishly wore the badge of the Greenville County Sheriff's Department and to a mother that devoted fifty-five years of dedicated service to the Greenville Hospital System. But most importantly a son, that was raised in a family who put the Lord as a priority. After graduating as a Greenville Senior High Red Raider, this young man continued his studies at Lander University in Greenwood, South Carolina, where in 2008 he earned a Business Degree. Fresh out of college in a world that had just been turned on its head with a financial crisis, that young man took a chance and a leap of faith and moved to an unknown land in Chester County, South Carolina. For three years that young man commuted an hour to and from Charlotte, North Carolina, to the Charlotte School of Law to get his law degree. Challenges presented themselves during that time. Right after that first semester of that young man's law school career, his father unexpectedly passed away. It was a dark time and a hard time in that young man's life, but the same struggles of losing his father also fueled the fire for that young man to try make his father proud.

After graduating and passing the bar, that young man was still in a dark place, but on August 25, 2012, with saying two sweet words before God, his friends and his family, he was lifted out of a place of darkness and into a light happy place. A few short years later, that young couple welcomed into their lives a young man, red headed, stubborn and hard willed, named Everette Stubbs, IV. Now he's got the same name that I do, the same name as my dad did who he never got to meet, and his granddaddy. But one thing is for sure, we know he's got our temperament as well. A few years later, our family was complete, and Mr. PRESIDENT, if you weren't sure, this story is about me. But a few years later we got to welcomed in the girl that completed our family, Ann Margaret Stubbs. She's got green eyes, her momma's smile and she's absolutely stolen my heart. Mr. PRESIDENT, over the last two years, I've explained to people cross Senate District 17, which encompasses Chester, Lancaster, Fairfield and York Counties that I can't guarantee them anything, but I can promise them one thing, my absolute best. And that's what I plan to provide for the citizens of District 17. I'm very humbled to be here today. This is a hallowed Chamber, full of tradition, full of love and full of good things that come from this State of South Carolina.

In closing Mr. PRESIDENT. I would be remised if I did not proclaim that our work here is to glorify the Lord and hopefully our work in the next four years will fulfill what He has in mind. Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT.

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

It is an honor to stand before you today as the newly elected Senator from District 20. My name is Ed Sutton and I'm excited to work along each of you in service of the people of South Carolina.

A little bit about myself -- I'm a small business owner, a decorated combat veteran, proud husband to Amy and proud father to Trip and Hunter. My journey started about forty minutes that way -- a little town called Gilbert. When I left it twenty-two years ago it had one flashing light and to this day it still has one flashing light. My senior year of high school nineteen men highjacked commercial airliners and attacked this country. Like Senator GRAHAM and Senator GOLDFINCH, I felt a strong call for service. That moment was our generation's Pearl Harbor moment, and I knew then that my life would be one of service and that service would begin in uniform. That desire took me down to Charleston where I joined The Citadel for the corp of cadets and while I was there, I learned the values of honor, service and leadership and these are values I still carry close to me to this day. Following graduation, I competed and became a C-17 pilot in the United States Airforce. I also had the extremely lucky opportunity to do an exchange tour with the army 's legendary 101st Airborne Division and complete airsoft school, and Senator CAMPSEN, I look forward to spirited debates about which is better airsoft or airborne. After my active service ended a decade ago, I returned to Charleston to join the airforce reserves, and I was eager to invest in a community that became my home. I started my own development business, and I focused on neighborhoods that had been underserved. And, thru that work, I saw the power of partnerships and the importance of listening to people most affected by the decisions we make here in this Body. I ran for this seat because I believe that South Carolina is full of untapped potential. The lowcountry and our entire State deserve bold forward-thinking solutions that honor traditions, vibrations, innovations and opportunities. Whether there is improving infrastructure, supporting small businesses, or ensuring every child had the access to a quality education, I am committed to making sure our State remains the same so that families can thrive for generations to come.

As I join this distinguish Body I do so with a heart full of gratitude and more importantly determination. I know the challenges that are before us are significant, but I also know we can achieve great things when we work together in good faith. My door will be always open, and I look forward to collaborating with each and every one of you. Thank you all so much for welcoming me to the Senate.

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

It is with great honor and appreciation that I stand before you this day in this sacrosanct of a Chamber, as a member of what will be the 126th General Assembly in the history of our beloved State. As the Senator from Richland County, representing Senate District 22, which has over one hundred ten thousand residents, it's with deep gratitude, appreciation and humility that I serve as their voice in this Chamber, and might I add, with civility in decorum, I will serve as their voice in this Chamber.

I am the devoted husband of Sharon Dupree-Walker; we've had seventeen years of marital bliss. I am also the proud father of a vivacious and energetic fifteen-year-old daughter, Zara Walker, who attends Spring Valley High School.

I bring to this Chamber nineteen years of experience as a practicing attorney, but I also bring to this Chamber eleven years of experience in the public sector. I started my legal career as a public defender near Richland County, where it was my primary task to ensure that the rights and liberties of some of our society's most vulnerable individuals -- their rights were protected. As a prosecutor for the City of Columbia it was my obligation to ensure that we protected families, victims and communities. As an assisted city attorney for the City of Columbia it was my task to ensure that taxpayer dollars were protected -- spent wisely. As a judge for the City of Columbia for four years it was my obligation to administer justice without friends to reward or enemies to punish. And, as a member of Richland County Council for four years, I also served as the chair of county council for two years -- during that time I learned that there was no such thing as a Republican pothole, no such thing as a Democrat dirt road, and no such thing as a Progressive or Libertarian property tax Bill. At the end of the day, residents, the voters, wanted Democrats and Republicans to come together and identify common issues and common challenges facing them and wanted us to come up with common sense solutions to those problems.

What I will pledge to this Body, Mr. PRESIDENT, is that I will work with each one of you to ensure that we grow our economy here in South Carolina and that we promote policies in the way of public safety that protect businesses and protect families. I'll work with each of you to ensure that we protect individual liberties, and I will work with each of you to ensure that no family, no faith or community is left under progress, or prosperity of our beloved State.

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

Mr. PRESIDENT, Majority Leader, Minority Leader, distinguished guests and family, thank you for being in attendance today. This is such an honor for me. I feel small standing before you.

Esteemed colleagues, my name is Jeff Zell, and I am truly humbled and honored to stand before you today as I introduce myself. I am the proud father of a remarkable thirteen year old daughter named Eva and the blessed husband of my amazing wife, Christina. I also have the privilege of being the twin brother of Patrick Zell, who is not only my best friend but also my confidant and mentor. Most importantly, I am a child of God, our Lord and Savior, to whom all glory and honor belong! Salvation is only made possible through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful people of Senate District 36 for allowing me to serve. I promise to always listen to their concerns and prioritize their needs and rights. While I cannot guarantee specific outcomes, I can assure them of an unwavering work ethic, and that is exactly what you can expect from me. The days of "going along to get along" governance are over; a new form of leadership has begun!

Growing up in poverty in Ohio, I joined the Air Force at twenty-two years old and proudly served for twenty years before retiring. Through my experiences, I traveled the world and understood the importance of making a meaningful difference in the communities where I lived. I realized that to make a difference, I needed to be different and that meant I needed to take on challenges that most people shy away from. This commitment is something I share with all of you.

Though much hard work has been accomplished by the dedicated men and women in this Chamber, significant needs persist in South Carolina, particularly in the Midlands and my district. We cannot allow our neighbors to continue suffering without taking action. We face some of the highest violent crime and murder rates in the State, along with an ongoing mental health crisis that results in broken homes, fractured communities and, far too often, tragic losses of life. This MUST stop. We must demand better and accept nothing less.

I promise you -- whether in this room or watching from your TV or computer screens -- that I will work alongside anyone willing to engage in good faith, regardless of political affiliation, social standing, race, class or any other factor. I am dedicated to collaborating with all who wish to help our neighbors and their future generations.

I firmly believe that we are all called to do God's work for His people through our actions. If we can rise above partisan divides and personal biases -- prioritizing the well-being and rights of our citizens -- and if we allow God's righteous demands and commandments to guide us -- we can transform the lives of those we represent for generations to come.

I want to end with a scripture. Exodus 18:21 "Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens." This passage of God's word emphasizes the importance of wise leadership and delegation. It instructs selecting capable and trustworthy individuals who fear God and hate dishonest gain to serve as leaders over the people. These leaders should be appointed to oversee various groups, assisting in managing the community's concerns and disputes. This allows for more effective governance and consistent and fair administration of justice and fosters a sense of order and accountability within society.

I pray and urge every one of us to lead well, my friends. Lead with dignity. Lead with honor and lead with respect. We have the ability and the mandate to help change the lives and communities of those who selected us to serve. God bless you all, and God bless South Carolina. May His will be done!

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

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

On motion of Senators MATTHEWS and GROOMS, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Dr. L. Michael Padgett of Walterboro, S.C. Michael graduated from Clemson University and later obtained his Doctorate of Optometry. He returned to Walterboro where he practiced for over forty years. Michael was a past president and member of the South Carolina Optometric Association, Civitans, Bethel United Methodist Church and IPTAY. He enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren at various sporting events, spending time on his farm and at the beach with family and friends. Michael was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.

On motion of Senators DEVINE, ADAMS, ALEXANDER, ALLEN, BENNETT, BLACKMON, CAMPSEN, CASH, CHAPLIN, CLIMER, CORBIN, CROMER, DAVIS, ELLIOTT, FERNANDEZ, GAMBRELL, GARRETT, GOLDFINCH, GRAHAM, GROOMS, HEMBREE, HUTTO, JACKSON, JOHNSON, KENNEDY, KIMBRELL, LEBER, MARTIN, MASSEY, MATTHEWS, NUTT, OTT, PEELER, RANKIN, REICHENBACH, RICE, SABB, STUBB, SUTTON, TEDDER, TURNER, VERDIN, WALKER, WILLIAMS, YOUNG and ZELL, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Andy Fiffick of Columbia, S.C. Andy was a beloved member of the South Carolina Senate family. He was a graduate of Dreher High School, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from the University of South Carolina and his JD from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 2005. Andy owned and operated A Clean Sweep business before starting law school. He began his career with the South Carolina Department of Revenue, became assistant counsel to the South Carolina House of Representatives Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee. He then served as chief legal counsel to then Lt. Governor Henry McMaster before joining the South Carolina Senate as chief of staff and research director to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Andy enjoyed spending time with his family, playing the guitar and bass with The Electric Company, singing with the Celebration Choir at Shandon United Methodist Church and working in the yard. Andy was a loving husband and devoted father who will be greatly missed.

On motion of Senator BENNETT, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Ms. Christa Nicole Bauer Gilley of Summerville, S.C. Christa graduated with a degree in public health from Clemson University and went on to earn a doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Pittsburg. She became a board-certified clinical specialist in cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy and worked at Memorial Hermann Hospital before becoming an adjunct instructor of physical therapy at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Christa was a loving mother and devoted daughter and sister who will be dearly missed.

At 12:55 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 1:00 P.M.

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