South Carolina General Assembly
126th Session, 2025-2026
Journal of the Senate

                                                NO. 20

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

_________

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025

Thursday, February 13, 2025
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

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

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

John 15:17

Our Savior himself declared: " 'This is my command: Love each other.' "

Bow in prayer with me, please: Tomorrow, of course, O God, is a day when "love" in our society is center stage, a time when restaurants and merchants make much of the whole theme, a period rightly celebrated by many. Yet sadly, dear Lord, the commercial and the quickly-passing aspects of Valentine's Day decry the fact that attitudes of loving and caring are not anywhere near as basic and fundamental as we all wish them to be. The widely celebrated theme of "I love you" gets lost in the frantic demands of modern life. That's why today we pray, Lord, that these Senators and their hardworking aides never cease to be leaders who genuinely love and care for the people they are called to serve here in South Carolina. And may it ever be so. In Your loving name we pray, dear Lord. Amen.

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

Call of the Senate

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

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Campsen                   Cash
Climer                    Cromer                    Davis
Devine                    Elliott                   Gambrell
Garrett                   Goldfinch                 Graham
Grooms                    Hembree                   Jackson
Johnson                   Kennedy                   Kimbrell
Leber                     Massey                    Matthews
Nutt                      Ott                       Peeler
Rankin                    Reichenbach               Rice
Sabb                      Sutton                    Tedder
Turner                    Verdin                    Walker
Williams                  Young                     Zell

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

Doctor of the Day

Senator REICHENBACH introduced Dr. Mark Jones of Florence, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator MATTHEWS, at 12:44 P.M., Senator MARTIN was granted a leave of absence for today.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator NUTT, at 12:44 P.M., Senator CHAPLIN was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator NUTT, at 12:44 P.M., Senator STUBBS was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator NUTT, at 12:44 P.M., Senator ELLIOTT was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator ADAMS, at 12:44 P.M., Senator FERNANDEZ was granted a leave of absence for the balance of the day.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 11 (Word version)     Sen. Davis
S. 28 (Word version)     Sen. Climer
S. 52 (Word version)     Sen. Sutton
S. 67 (Word version)     Sens. Zell, Turner, Cromer and Williams
S. 78 (Word version)     Sen. Devine
S. 104 (Word version)     Sens. Garrett and Reichenbach
S. 143 (Word version)     Sen. Zell
S. 159 (Word version)     Sen. Graham
S. 170 (Word version)     Sen. Graham
S. 305 (Word version)     Sens. Davis, Kimbrell and Garrett
S. 308 (Word version)     Sen. Turner
S. 318 (Word version)     Sen. Rice
S. 339 (Word version)     Sen. Sutton
S. 344 (Word version)     Sen. Young

RECALLED AND COMMITTED

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.

On motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, the Bill was recalled from the Committee on Transportation and committed to the Committee on Judiciary.

RECALLED

H. 3003 (Word version) -- Reps. Collins and Beach: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE PORTION OF MAIN STREET IN THE TOWN OF EASLEY IN PICKENS COUNTY FROM WILBUR STREET TO NORTH PENDLETON STREET "OFFICER MATTHEW LOGAN HARE MEMORIAL AVENUE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS ALONG THIS PORTION OF HIGHWAY CONTAINING THESE WORDS.

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

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

RECALLED AND ADOPTED

H. 3921 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, McGinnis, Ballentine, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, Bernstein, Bowers, Bradley, Brewer, Brittain, Burns, Bustos, Calhoon, Caskey, Chapman, Chumley, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Collins, B.J. Cox, B.L. Cox, Crawford, Cromer, Davis, Dillard, Duncan, Edgerton, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, Hardee, Harris, Hart, Hartnett, Hartz, Hayes, Henderson-Myers, Herbkersman, Hewitt, Hiott, Hixon, Holman, Hosey, Howard, Huff, J.E. Johnson, J.L. Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kilmartin, King, Kirby, Landing, Lawson, Ligon, Long, Lowe, Luck, Magnuson, Martin, May, McCabe, McCravy, McDaniel, Mitchell, Montgomery, J. Moore, T. Moore, Morgan, Moss, Murphy, Neese, B. Newton, W. Newton, Oremus, Pace, Pedalino, Pope, Rankin, Reese, Rivers, Robbins, Rose, Rutherford, Sanders, Schuessler, Sessions, G.M. Smith, M.M. Smith, Spann-Wilder, Stavrinakis, Taylor, Teeple, Terribile, Vaughan, Weeks, Wetmore, White, Whitmire, Wickensimer, Williams, Willis, Wooten and Yow: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND EXPRESS DEEP APPRECIATION TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM ON "SOUTH CAROLINA TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM DAY" ON FEBRUARY 26, 2025, FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS IN EDUCATING AND TRAINING SOUTH CAROLINA'S WORKFORCE FOR HIGH-DEMAND, SKILLED JOBS IN OUR STATE.

Senator HEMBREE asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Education.

The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Education.

Senator HEMBREE asked unanimous consent to make a motion to take the Resolution up for immediate consideration.

There was no objection.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Resolution. The question then was the adoption of the Resolution.

On motion of Senator HEMBREE, the Resolution was adopted and ordered sent to the House.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 340 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson, Ott and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-3910 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON TO SMOKE A TOBACCO PRODUCT IN A MOTOR VEHICLE IN WHICH THERE IS A TWELVE-YEAR-OLD OR YOUNGER PASSENGER AND TO PROVIDE FOR A PENALTY.
smin-0077mw25.docx

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

S. 341 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-36-2120, RELATING TO SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXEMPTION FOR BREAST PUMPS AND SUPPLIES AND INCONTINENCE PRODUCTS.
lc-0205sa25.docx

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

S. 342 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin, Peeler, Goldfinch, Davis and Gambrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-2200, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE "LOW-VOLUME PHARMACY"; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-2270 SO AS TO RESTRICT PHARMACY BENEFITS MANAGERS FROM REIMBURSEMENT UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-2230, RELATING TO PHARMACY BENEFITS MANAGER PROHIBITIONS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT ADDITIONAL ACTIONS AND TO REMOVE THE PROHIBITION ON CLAIMS RECONCILIATION ACTIVITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-2260, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION AND APPLICATION, SO AS TO REMOVE ANTISTEERING PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-71-2350, RELATING TO APPLICATION AND EXCEPTIONS, SO AS TO REMOVE A REFERENCE TO MEDICAID; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-2280 SO AS TO PERMIT THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES TO ASSUME DIRECT RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL SOUTH CAROLINA MEDICAID PHARMACY SERVICES; BY ADDING SECTION 38-71-2290 SO AS TO EMPOWER THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO BRING AN ACTION IN THE NAME OF THE STATE AGAINST SOMEONE ENGAGING IN UNLAWFUL ACTS PURSUANT TO THIS ACT; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 38-71-2240 RELATING TO PLACEMENT OF DRUGS ON THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE COST LIST.
lc-0074ph25.docx

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

S. 343 (Word version) -- Senators Corbin, Cash, Rice, Garrett, Kimbrell, Leber and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 44-29-175 SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN INFORMED CONSENT PROTOCOL THAT MUST BE FOLLOWED PRIOR TO A CERTAIN COVID-19 VACCINE BEING ADMINISTERED OR RECEIVED.
sr-0230km25.docx

Senator CORBIN spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 344 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Ott, Graham, Adams, Peeler, Kimbrell and Leber: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA EQUINE ADVANCEMENT ACT"; BY ADDING CHAPTER 61 TO TITLE 11 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA EQUINE COMMISSION AS A GRANT PROGRAM THAT ASSISTS THE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE EQUINE INDUSTRY IN SOUTH CAROLINA, TO PROVIDE APPLICATION GUIDELINES FOR PARI-MUTUEL WAGERING, TO ESTABLSIH THE POWERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA EQUINE COMMISSION, TO PROVIDE FOR THE EQUINE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT FUND, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS RELATED TO HORSE RACING.
sr-0030cem25.docx

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

S. 345 (Word version) -- Senator Campsen: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-510, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION AGAINST BAITING WILD TURKEYS, SO AS TO EXEMPT CERTAIN PERSONS WHO ARE TWO HUNDRED YARDS OR MORE FROM A BAITED AREA MANAGED FOR THE RESTORATION AND SUSTAINABILITY OF WILD BOBWHITE QUAIL.
sfgf-0015bc25.docx

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

S. 346 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 16-3-600, RELATING TO ASSAULT AND BATTERY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO UNLAWFULLY INJURES A HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL DURING THE COURSE OF HIS DUTIES OR INJURES A PERSON IN A HEALTH CARE FACILITY COMMITS THE OFFENSE OF ASSAULT AND BATTERY OF A HIGH AND AGGRAVATED NATURE, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.
sr-0017cem25.docx

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

S. 347 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "COMMERCIAL FINANCING DISCLOSURE ACT" BY ADDING CHAPTER 81 TO TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS, TO PROVIDE TO WHICH COMMERCIAL FINANCING TRANSACTIONS THE PROVISIONS APPLY, TO PROVIDE FOR WRITTEN DISCLOSURES, TO PROVIDE FOR PROHIBITIONS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR ENFORCEMENT.
lc-0186sa25.docx

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

S. 348 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - SOUTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF REGISTRATION FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND LAND SURVEYORS, RELATING TO UNITS OF CREDIT, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5310, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0287wab-rt25.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 349 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR LICENSURE OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS, ADDICTION COUNSELORS AND PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL SPECIALISTS, RELATING TO BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR LICENSURE OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS, ADDICTION COUNSELORS AND PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL SPECIALISTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5334, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0289wab-rt25.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 350 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - OFFICE OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, RELATING TO WORKER WALKAROUND REPRESENTATIVE DESIGNATION PROCESS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5338, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0292wab-dbs25.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 351 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR LICENSURE OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS, ADDICTION COUNSELORS AND PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL SPECIALISTS, RELATING TO LICENSING PROVISIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL COUSNELOR ASSOCIATE AND MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY ASSOCIATES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5354, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0290wab-rt25.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 352 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - STATE BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY, RELATING TO LICENSURE FOR OUT-OF-STATE APPLICANTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5307, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0291wab-dbs25.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 353 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - STATE BOARD OF SOCIAL WORK EXAMINERS, RELATING TO CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5301, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0286wab-rt25.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 354 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION - STATE BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY, RELATING TO PRACTICE OF ESTHETICS GENERALLY; AND SANITARY AND SAFETY RULES FOR SALONS AND SCHOOLS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5276, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
lc-0288wab-dbs25.docx

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

H. 3020 (Word version) -- Reps. Rutherford, Mitchell, Pedalino, Taylor, Grant, Atkinson, King and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-1-40 AND 63-19-20, BOTH RELATING TO STATUS OFFENSES, SO AS TO ELIMINATE PLAYING A PINBALL MACHINE AS A STATUS OFFENSE; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 63-19-2430 RELATING TO THE PLAYING OF PINBALL MACHINES BY A MINOR.
lc-0021vr25.docx

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

H. 3196 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, G. M. Smith, B. Newton, Wooten, Mitchell, Pope, Martin, Spann-Wilder, McCravy, Chumley, W. Newton, Gilliam, Collins, Vaughan, Caskey, Terribile, Kilmartin, Magnuson, Haddon, Wetmore, M. M. Smith, Schuessler, Stavrinakis, Sanders, Duncan, Teeple, Grant, Hartnett, Pedalino, Taylor, Hixon, Govan, Calhoon, Ligon, Lawson, Yow, Edgerton, Cromer, Reese, Gilliard, Alexander, Rivers, Oremus, Hartz and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "EDUCATOR ASSISTANCE ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 59-25-112 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION ARE PERMANENT UNLESS REVOKED OR SUSPENDED AND ARE NOT SUBJECT TO RENEWAL, TO PROVIDE NO TEACHER MAY BE REQUIRED TO RENEW A PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE BOARD, AND TO PROVIDE A TEACHER WITH A PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE SHALL CONTINUE TO COMPLETE ONGOING PROFESSIONAL LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-145 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE USE OF DATA BEING COLLECTED UNDER CURRENT PROCEDURES TO REPORT ON CERTAIN POSTSECONDARY MATTERS CONCERNING GRADUATES OF SOUTH CAROLINA PUBLIC SCHOOLS, AND TO REQUIRE THE STREAMLINING OF DATA COLLECTION TIMELINES AND PROCESSES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-25-47, RELATING TO POLICIES AUTHORIZING PAYMENTS FOR UNUSED TEACHER LEAVE, SO AS TO REQUIRE ADDITIONAL POLICIES THAT ALLOW TEACHERS TO DONATE SUCH UNUSED LEAVE TO A LEAVE BANK FOR OTHER EMPLOYEES, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POLICIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-25-410, RELATING TO ANNUAL NOTIFICATION OF SCHOOL TEACHER EMPLOYMENT AND ASSIGNMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE NOTIFICATION MUST INCLUDE CERTAIN SALARY INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS IN THE REQUIRED NOTICE, TO PROVIDE NOTICE OF TENTATIVE TEACHER ASSIGNMENTS MUST BE PROVIDED NO LATER THAN FOURTEEN CALENDAR DAYS BEFORE THE START OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, AND TO PROHIBIT LIMITATIONS ON TEACHER REASSIGNMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-25-420, RELATING TO NOTICES CONCERNING ANNUAL TEACHER EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CONTRACT ACCEPTANCES SUBMITTED BEFORE THE STATUTORY NOTIFICATION DEADLINE MAY BE WITHDRAWN BY SUBMISSION OF WRITTEN NOTICE TO THE SCHOOL DISTRICT WITHIN TEN DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT SALARY SCHEDULE FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR, AND TO PROVIDE SCHOOL DISTRICTS MAY NOT REPORT SUCH WITHDRAWALS AS A BREACH OF CONTRACT; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-1-425, RELATING TO REQUIRED DAYS FOR COLLEGIAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE ANNUAL SCHOOL CALENDAR, SO AS TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF DAYS TO FOUR, TO PROVIDE DISTRICTS MUST VERIFY COMPLETING OF THE REQUIRED COLLEGIAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN A CERTAIN MANNER, TO PROVIDE TEACHERS AND INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANTS MUST BE PROVIDED SELF-DIRECTED FREE TIME TO EVALUATE STUDENT ACADEMIC DATA, INSTRUCTIONAL PLANNING, AND CLASSROOM PREPARATION, AND TO REMOVE A TWO-DAY MAXIMUM LIMITATION ON USE OF THESE COLLEGIAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAYS FOR PREPARATION AND OPENING OF SCHOOLS; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-25-530, RELATING TO UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND BREACH OF CONTRACT BY TEACHERS, SO AS TO RECHARACTERIZE CERTAIN ACTIONS AS BEING BREACH OF CONTRACT INSTEAD OF UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT, TO REVISE THE PENALTIES AND CONSEQUENCES FOR SUCH BREACHES OF CONTRACT, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY REPEALING SECTION 59-101-130 RELATING TO HIGH SCHOOLS REPORTING TO THE SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION; INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING REPORTING TO HIGH SCHOOLS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 59-101-140 RELATING TO TABULATION OF REPORTS.
lc-0129wab25.docx

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

H. 3432 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Mitchell, Yow and T. Moore: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 27-6-20, RELATING TO NONVESTED PROPERTY INTEREST OR POWER OF APPOINTMENT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE TIME AN INTEREST CAN VEST FROM NINETY YEARS TO THREE HUNDRED SIXTY YEARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 27-6-40, RELATING TO REFORMATION OF PROPERTY DISPOSITIONS, SO AS TO INCREASE THE TIME LIMIT FROM NINETY YEARS TO THREE HUNDRED SIXTY YEARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 27-6-60, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF TIMING OF CREATION OF PROPERTY INTEREST, SO AS TO UPDATE CERTAIN DATES; BY AMENDING SECTION 62-7-504, RELATING TO DISCRETIONARY TRUSTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN SITUATIONS IN WHICH A BENEFICIARY OF A TRUST MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED A SETTLOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 62-7-505, RELATING TO CREDITORS' CLAIMS AGAINST A SETTLOR, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN AMOUNTS PAID TO TAXING AUTHORITIES MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED AN AMOUNT THAT MAY BE DISTRIBUTED FOR THE SETTLOR'S BENEFIT; AND BY ADDING SECTION 62-7-508 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN GRANTOR TRUST REIMBURSEMENTS.
lc-0085sa25.docx

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

H. 3502 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Rutherford, Caskey, Erickson, Weeks, Davis, Mitchell, Spann-Wilder, Pedalino, Hixon and King: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-7-10 AND 63-7-1620, RELATING TO PRINCIPLES OF THE CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM AND LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES IN CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS, RESPECTIVELY, SO AS TO CLARIFY THAT LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE DEPARTMENT MUST ENSURE THAT CHILD WELFARE AND SAFETY ARE THE PREDOMINANT BASIS OF ANY RECOMMENDATIONS AND DECISIONS AND THAT LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE DEPARTMENT HAVE THE SOLE DISCRETION OVER DECISIONS PERTAINING TO CHILD WELFARE PROCEEDINGS.
lc-0105vr25.docx

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

H. 3529 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Bannister, Caskey, Wooten, Spann-Wilder, Calhoon, Ballentine, Robbins, Mitchell and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-3-40, RELATING TO FAMILY COURT JUDGES ELECTED FROM EACH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SO AS TO INCREASE BY ONE THE NUMBER OF FAMILY COURT JUDGES IN THE NINTH, ELEVENTH, AND FOURTEENTH CIRCUITS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 3570 (Word version) -- Reps. Bannister, Spann-Wilder, W. Newton, Mitchell, Bowers and Calhoon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-100, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND "PUBLIC MEMBER" TO INCLUDE A PERSON NOMINATED AND APPOINTED TO A NONCOMPENSATED PART-TIME POSITION ON A BOARD, COMMISSION, OR COUNCIL; BY ADDING SECTION 8-13-1100 SO AS TO OUTLINE RESPONSIBILITIES FOR DISCLOSING ECONOMIC INTERESTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1110, RELATING TO STATEMENTS OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS, SO AS TO ADDRESS AGENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR FILING DISCLOSURE FORMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1170, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PUBLIC MEMBER WHO FILES THE INITIAL STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS WITHIN TEN DAYS AFTER NOTICE FROM THE STATE ETHICS COMMISSION SHALL NOT BE IN VIOLATION OF CHAPTER 13, TITLE 8; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 8-13-1356, RELATING TO FILING DEADLINES FOR ECONOMIC INTERESTS STATEMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE WHEN CERTAIN CANDIDATES FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE MUST FILE A STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS.
lc-0028ha25.docx

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

H. 3932 (Word version) -- Rep. Pedalino: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 7-7-190, RELATING TO DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS IN CLARENDON COUNTY, SO AS TO SPLIT AN EXISTING PRECINCT AND REDESIGNATE THE MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THE OFFICIAL PRECINCT MAP IS FOUND ON FILE WITH THE REVENUE AND FISCAL AFFAIRS OFFICE.
lc-0150hdb25.docx

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

H. 3933 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell and B. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 33-36-1330, RELATING TO APPOINTMENT OR ELECTION OF BOARD MEMBERS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH A SEVEN-MEMBER BOARD AND TO CHANGE THE APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE.
lc-0049ph25.docx

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

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator CROMER rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Appointments Reported

Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable report on:

Statewide Appointments

Initial Appointment, Jobs Economic Development Authority, with the term to commence July 27, 2024, and to expire July 27, 2027
2nd Congressional District:
James Augustus Herlong, Jr., 5039 Wittering Dr., Columbia, SC 29206-2922 VICE William Drake

Received as information.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina Board of Real Estate Appraisers, with the term to commence May 31, 2022, and to expire May 31, 2025
Licensed or Certified Appraiser:
Malinda Griffin, 413 Windwood Street, Simpsonville, SC 29680-6585 VICE George Knight

Received as information.

Reappointment, South Carolina Real Estate Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2023, and to expire June 30, 2027
General Public:
Johnathan T. Stackhouse, 625 Edgewater Lane, West Columbia, SC 29169

Received as information.

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

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

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

S. 29 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Cromer, Verdin and Kennedy: 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 THE 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.

AMENDMENT TABLED, OBJECTION

S. 28 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Sutton, Cromer, Verdin, Kennedy and Climer: 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.

The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.

Senators SABB proposed the following amendment (SJ-28.MB0015S), which was tabled:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 16-15-390(B) and inserting:
  (B) Any person who knowingly produces, distributes, solicits, or possesses with intent to distribute, a visual depiction or representation of any kind, including a drawing, cartoon, sculpture, or painting that depicts a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, sexually explicit activity, or sexually explicit nudity, and is obscene, or attempts or conspires to do so, is guilty of a felony and, upon . Upon conviction for a first offense, a person must be imprisoned no more than ten years. Upon conviction of a second or subsequent offense, a person must be imprisoned not less than two years nor more than ten years. No part of the minimum sentence may be suspended nor is the individual convicted eligible for parole until he has served the minimum sentence.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator SABB explained the amendment.

The question being the adoption of the amendment.

Senator ADAMS moved to lay the amendment on the table.

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

Ayes 27; Nays 12

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Bennett
Campsen                   Cash                      Climer
Corbin                    Cromer                    Davis
Gambrell                  Garrett                   Goldfinch
Grooms                    Hembree                   Johnson
Kennedy                   Kimbrell                  Leber
Massey                    Nutt                      Peeler
Reichenbach               Rice                      Turner
Verdin                    Young                     Zell

Total--27

NAYS

Allen                     Devine                    Graham
Jackson                   Matthews                  Ott
Rankin                    Sabb                      Sutton
Tedder                    Walker                    Williams

Total--12

The amendment was laid on the table.

Senator SABB objected to further consideration of the Bill.

CARRIED OVER

S. 35 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen, Grooms, Rice, and Kimbrell: 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 TO 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 THE STATE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE GOVERNOR PERFORM THE FORMER DUTIES OF THE COMPTROLLER GENERAL.

On motion of Senator SABB, the Resolution was carried over.

OBJECTION

S. 143 (Word version) -- Senators Devine and Zell: 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.

Senator DEVINE objected to consideration of the Bill.

OBJECTION

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.

Senator DEVINE objected to consideration of the Bill.

POINT OF ORDER

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.

Point of Order

Senator CORBIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

POINT OF ORDER

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.

Point of Order

Senator CORBIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

POINT OF ORDER

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.

Point of Order

Senator CORBIN raised a Point of Order under Rule 39 that the Bill had not been on the desks of the members at least one day prior to second reading.

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

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

MOTION ADOPTED

At 12:53 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to dispense with the balance of the Motion Period.

THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE CONTESTED STATEWIDE CALENDAR.

CARRIED OVER

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.

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

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

S. 28 (Word version) -- Senators Hutto, Reichenbach, Goldfinch, Leber, Jackson, Alexander, Rice, Fernandez, Campsen, Chaplin, Devine, Adams, Young, Garrett, Elliott, Turner, Ott, Graham, Sutton, Cromer, Verdin, Kennedy and Climer: 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.

The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.

Senator GARRETT proposed the following amendment (SJ-28.MB0016S), which was carried over and subsequently withdrawn:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X.   Local school districts shall collaborate with the State Department of Education, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Attorney General's Office, as appropriate, to implement a policy to educate and notify students of the provision of this act, which includes adequate notice to students, parents or guardians, the public, and school personnel of the change in law. The State Department of Education must file a report as to the status of the adoption and implementation of the education policies under this act to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, annually, by July 1st of each year.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator GARRETT explained the amendment.

The amendment was carried over.

  Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator GARRETT, with unanimous consent, Amendment No. 5 was withdrawn.

Senator DEVINE proposed the following amendment (SMIN-28.MW0003S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 16-15-390(F) and inserting:
  (F) This section does not apply to an employee of a law enforcement agency, including the State Law Enforcement Division, a prosecuting agency, including the South Carolina Attorney General's Office, the defendant's counsel, or the South Carolina Department of Corrections, who, while acting within the employee's official capacity in the course of an investigation or criminal proceeding, is in possession of material that contains a visual representation of a minor engaging in sexual activity or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity when a reasonable person would infer the purpose is sexual stimulation. An employee's official capacity in the course of such investigation or criminal proceeding includes making materials available for inspection to the defendant's counsel in response to discovery requests.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator DEVINE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

Senators HEMBREE and GARRETT proposed the following amendment (SEDU-28.DB0001S), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X.   The State Department of Education, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Attorney General's Office, as appropriate, shall develop and implement a policy to educate and notify students of the provision of this act. The State Department of Education must file a report as to the status of the adoption and implementation of the education policies under this act to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representative, by July 1, 2026.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

The question being the second reading of the Bill.

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

Ayes 39; Nays 0

AYES

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Campsen                   Cash
Climer                    Corbin                    Davis
Devine                    Elliott                   Gambrell
Garrett                   Goldfinch                 Graham
Grooms                    Hembree                   Jackson
Johnson                   Kennedy                   Kimbrell
Leber                     Massey                    Matthews
Nutt                      Ott                       Peeler
Rankin                    Reichenbach               Rice
Sabb                      Sutton                    Tedder
Turner                    Verdin                    Walker
Williams                  Young                     Zell

Total--39

NAYS
Total--0

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

Motion Adopted

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

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senators HUTTO and OTT, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mrs. Betty W. Henderson of Branchville, S.C. Betty was a beloved former Chairwoman of the Orangeburg Democratic Party where she served over twenty years with devotion, integrity and passion. Betty was a dear friend and mentor to many people in the party and her community. Betty was a loving wife, devoted mother and doting grandmother who will be dearly missed.

ADJOURNMENT

At 1:19 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.

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