Senate Journal for 2/18/2025 - South Carolina Legislature Online

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

NO. 22

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

_________

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2025
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
(Statewide Session)

~~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:

Numbers 7:24-26

The Lord instructed Moses to offer this blessing to the people: "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you,
and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."

Good friends, bow in prayer with me, please: Yesterday was Presidents' Day, dear Lord, and it seems appropriate to recall that it was said of George Washington that he "was a devoted man of prayer, deeply committed to the Lord." Surely it is clear, O God, that leaders through the ages, from Old Testament times to today, have always found hope and strength as they turn to You, as they trust in You. So we ask, Lord, that You continue to embrace these members of the South Carolina Senate with Your unfailing guidance and care. May they also always experience the richness of Your love and blessing as they in turn lead and guide the people of our State. All this we pray in Your precious name, 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                   Blackmon                  Cash
Chaplin                   Climer                    Corbin
Cromer                    Davis                     Devine
Fernandez                 Gambrell                  Garrett
Goldfinch                 Grooms                    Hembree
Johnson                   Kennedy                   Kimbrell
Leber                     Martin                    Massey
Matthews                  Nutt                      Peeler
Rankin                    Reichenbach               Rice
Sabb                      Stubbs                    Sutton
Turner                    Verdin                    Walker
Williams                  Young                     Zell

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR

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

Statewide Appointments

Initial Appointment, Department of Natural Resources Board, with the term to commence July 1, 2022, and to expire July 1, 2026
Chairman:
Mark Hartely, 3712 Riverstation Court, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 VICE Norman F. Pulliam, Sr.

Referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Reappointment, Governing Board of Department of Natural Resources, with the term to commence July 1, 2022, and to expire July 1, 2026
1st Congressional District:
Mark Hartely, 3712 Riverstation Court, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466-8318

Referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Reappointment, Governing Board of Department of Natural Resources, with the term to commence July 1, 2022, and to expire July 1, 2026
5th Congressional District:
James C. Oxner III, 414 Perrin Avenue, Union, SC 29379-2525

Referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Reappointment, Governing Board of Department of Natural Resources, with the term to commence July 1, 2024, and to expire July 1, 2028
6th Congressional District:
Duane Swygert, P. O. Box 486, Hardeeville, SC 29927-0486

Referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence February 13, 2023, and to expire February 13, 2028
At-Large:
James Burns, Esquire, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP, 1320 Main Street, Floor 17, Columbia, SC 29201 VICE David J. Posek

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence February 13, 2025, and to expire February 13, 2030
At-Large:
Mark D. Buyck, P.O. Box 1909, Florence, SC 29503-1909

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence June 4, 2023, and to expire June 4, 2028
At-Large:
G. Daniel Ellzey, 4028 Claremont Drive, Columbia, SC 29205 VICE Kurt D. Grindstaff

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence March 19, 2024, and to expire March 19, 2029
At-Large:
John Barnwell Fishburne, 1123 St. Peters Road, Walterboro, SC 29488 VICE Whitemarsh S. Smith, III

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence February 13, 2025, and to expire February 13, 2030
At-Large:
Pamela P. Lackey, 1672 Tanglewood Road, Columbia, SC 29204

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence February 13, 2025, and to expire February 13, 2030
At-Large:
Robert Rain, 1038 Glendalyn Circle, Spartanburg, SC 29302 VICE Willie E. Jeffries

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Reappointment, South Carolina State Ports Authority, with the term to commence February 13, 2025, and to expire February 13, 2030
At-Large:
William H. Stern, 2134 Bermuda Hills, Columbia, SC 29223

Referred to the Committee on Transportation.

Local Appointment

Initial Appointment, Berkeley County Master-in-Equity, with the term to commence November 7, 2020, and to expire November 7, 2026
J. Camden West, Esquire, 208 McCants Driver, Monks Corner, SC 29461 VICE Hon. Dale Van Slambrook (resigned)

Doctor of the Day

Senator CROMER introduced Dr. Sunday Olatunde of Irmo, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator CROMER, at 12:06 P.M., Senator CAMPSEN was granted a leave of absence for the week.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator SUTTON, at 12:08 P.M., Senator OTT was granted a leave of absence for Tuesday, February 18, 2025, and Wednesday, February 19, 2025.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator SABB, at 12:38 P.M., Senator GRAHAM was granted a leave of absence for today.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator DEVINE, at 12:38 P.M., Senator TEDDER was granted a leave of absence until 12:58 P.M.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator SABB, at 12:41 P.M., Senator JACKSON was granted a leave of absence until 12:51 P.M.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator SUTTON rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 28 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 99 (Word version) Sen. Tedder
S. 170 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 247 (Word version) Sen. Tedder
S. 318 (Word version) Sen. Verdin
S. 330 (Word version) Sen. Elliott
S. 342 (Word version) Sen. Blackmon

CO-SPONSOR REMOVED

The following co-sponsor was removed from the respective Bill:
S. 344 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 355 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett, Climer, Leber, Turner, Davis, Johnson, Adams, Fernandez and Tedder: A Bill TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-1140, RELATING TO TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES ON LICENSED PREMISES, SO AS TO MODIFY THE TIME DURING WHICH TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES CAN OCCUR; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-1150, RELATING TO TASTINGS AND RETAIL SALES, SO AS TO MODIFY THE AMOUNT OF LIQUOR THAT CAN BE SOLD TO A CONSUMER DURING ONE BUSINESS DAY.
sr-0032cem25.docx

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

S. 356 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-101-620, RELATING TO EDUCATIONAL FEE WAIVERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT HIGHER INSTITUTIONS MAY OFFER UP TO AN ADDITIONAL FOUR PERCENT OF EDUCATIONAL FEE WAIVERS.
smin-0055mw25.docx

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

S. 357 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-13-190, SO AS TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF MAIL THEFT AND PRESCRIBE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION.
sj-0003mf25.docx

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

S. 358 (Word version) -- Senator Hembree: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE JUNE 15-21, 2025, AS WASTE AND RECYCLING WORKERS WEEK IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
sr-0233km-vc25.docx

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

H. 3022 (Word version) -- Reps. M. M. Smith, Guest, Kirby and W. Newton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 43-21-130, RELATING TO THE LONG-TERM CARE COUNCIL, SO AS TO CORRECT REFERENCES TO CERTAIN AGENCIES WITH MEMBERSHIP ON THE COUNCIL; BY AMENDING SECTION 43-21-140, RELATING TO THE PURPOSE AND DUTIES OF COUNCIL, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SHARING OF DATA WITH MEMBER AGENCIES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
lc-0072vr25.docx

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

H. 3195 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Pope, Pedalino, Chumley, Taylor, Erickson, Bradley, Hixon, Ligon, Weeks, Oremus, Hartz, Williams, Luck, Gilliard, Rivers and Anderson: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-10, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE, SO AS TO REQUIRE CERTAIN MANDATORY MINIMUM PERIODS FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND OUTDOOR RECESS IN FOUR-YEAR-OLD KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE EACH YEAR IN ADDITION TO OTHER CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE RECESS PERIODS MUST BE HELD INDOORS DURING TIMES OF INCLEMENT WEATHER; BY AMENDING SECTION 59-10-30, RELATING TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITY DIRECTORS AND VOLUNTEERS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND TO REDESIGNATE ARTICLE 1 OF CHAPTER 10, TITLE 59 AS "PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ACTIVITY."
lc-0047wab25.docx

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

H. 3247 (Word version) -- Reps. Haddon, Pope, Spann-Wilder, Garvin, Pedalino, Chumley, Bowers, Hixon, Yow, Mitchell, Ligon, Rivers and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-1-462 SO AS TO EXCUSE ABSENCES FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS WHEN PARTICIPATING IN CERTAIN WORK-BASED LEARNING EXPERIENCES INCLUDING ORGANIZED COMPETITIONS OR EXHIBITIONS OF FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA (FFA) ORGANIZATIONS OR 4-H PROGRAMS, AND TO PROVIDE STUDENTS AND THEIR PARENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING AND COMPLETING ASSIGNMENTS MISSED DURING SUCH EXCUSED ABSENCES.
lc-0045wab25.docx

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

H. 3254 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Erickson and Bradley: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-47-32, RELATING TO SPECIAL EXAMINATIONS AND RELATED CRITERIA REQUIRED OF APPLICANTS FOR PERMANENT MEDICAL LICENSURE BY THE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD MAY WAIVE CERTAIN EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS FOUND TO POSSESS THE GENERAL MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED TO COMPETENTLY PRACTICE MEDICINE.
lc-0024wab25.docx

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

H. 3292 (Word version) -- Reps. Hixon, Pedalino, W. Newton, Forrest, B. L. Cox, Erickson, Taylor, Hartz, Atkinson and Pace: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-2-105, RELATING TO GOLF CART PERMITS AND THE OPERATION OF GOLF CARTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN MUNICIPALITIES AND COUNTIES MAY ENACT ORDINANCES TO ALLOW GOLF CARTS TO OPERATE IN DESIGNATED AREAS WITHIN THEIR JURISDICTIONS AT NIGHT.
lc-0063cm25.docx

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

H. 3309 (Word version) -- Reps. G. M. Smith, Gatch, Herbkersman, Pope, B. Newton, Wooten, Robbins, Mitchell, Chapman, W. Newton, Taylor, Forrest, Hewitt, Kirby, Schuessler, Yow, Long, M. M. Smith, Hardee, Montgomery, Atkinson, Hixon, Ligon, Anderson, Weeks, Willis, Govan and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY SECURITY ACT" BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-20, RELATING TO THE MEMBERSHIP, ELECTION, AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION, SO AS TO CHANGE THE NUMBER OF COMMISSIONERS FROM SEVEN TO THREE TO BE ELECTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM THE STATE AT LARGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-140, RELATING TO THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION'S POWERS TO REGULATE PUBLIC UTILITIES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CONSIDERATIONS AND STATE POLICY FOR THE COMMISSION'S DECISION-MAKING PROCESS, TO ESTABLISH A SCHEDULE FOR CERTAIN TESTIMONY AND DISCOVERY IN CONTESTED PROCEEDINGS, TO PERMIT ELECTRICAL UTILITY CUSTOMERS TO ADDRESS THE COMMISSION AS PUBLIC WITNESSES, AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR AN INDEPENDENT THIRD-PARTY CONSULTANT HIRED BY THE COMMISSION; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-250, RELATING TO SERVICE OF ORDERS AND DECISIONS ON PARTIES, SO AS TO MAKE A TECHNICAL CHANGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-4-10, RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF AND ITS REPRESENTATION OF PUBLIC INTEREST BEFORE THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO ESTABLISH ITS CONSIDERATIONS FOR PUBLIC INTEREST; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-150 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO PREPARE A COMPREHENSIVE STATE ENERGY ASSESSMENT AND ACTION PLAN AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS PLAN; BY ADDING CHAPTER 38 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE SOUTH CAROLINA ENERGY POLICY RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-195 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE DOMINION ENERGY, THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY, DUKE ENERGY CAROLINAS, AND DUKE ENERGY PROGRESS TO EVALUATE CERTAIN ELECTRICAL GENERATION FACILITIES AND PROVIDE FOR CONSIDERATIONS RELATED TO THESE FACILITIES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-205 SO AS TO PERMIT THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY TO JOINTLY OWN ELECTRICAL GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION FACILITIES WITH INVESTOR-OWNED ELECTRIC UTILITIES, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR JOINT OWNERSHIP; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 9 OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 13, RELATING TO THE GOVERNOR'S NUCLEAR ADVISORY COUNCIL, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE COUNCIL IN THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS DUTIES AND MEMBERSHIP, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE COUNCIL'S DIRECTOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 37-6-604, RELATING TO THE CONSUMER ADVOCATE'S INTERVENTION ON MATTERS FILED AT THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO TRANSFER THESE DUTIES TO THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF; BY ADDING SECTION 58-33-196 SO AS TO ENCOURAGE CONSIDERATION OF DEPLOYMENT OF NUCLEAR FACILITIES AND TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-70 SO AS TO PERMIT A SMALL MODULAR NUCLEAR PILOT PROGRAM AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS; BY ADDING ARTICLE 3 TO CHAPTER 37, TITLE 58 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR STATE AGENCY REVIEW OF ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT APPLICATIONS AND TO PROVIDE A SUNSET, AND BY ADDING ARTICLE 1 TO CHAPTER 37 TO INCLUDE ALL OTHER SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 37; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-40-10, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR," SO AS TO ESTABLISH CHARACTERISTICS FOR A "CUSTOMER-GENERATOR"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-30, RELATING TO VOLUNTARY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION OF "ENERGY STORAGE FACILITIES"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-41-20, RELATING TO PROCEEDINGS FOR ELECTRICAL UTILITIES' AVOIDED COST METHODOLOGIES AND RELATED PROCESSES, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAMS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY, CAPACITY, AND STORAGE, TO PERMIT COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT OF NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY CAPACITY AND ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT PROGRAMS, AND TO DELETE LANGUAGE REGARDING THE COMMISSION HIRING THIRD-PARTY EXPERTS FOR THESE PROCEEDINGS; BY ADDING SECTION 58-41-25 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PROCESS FOR COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY FACILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD THE DEFINITION "LIKE FACILITY" AND AMENDING THE DEFINITION OF "MAJOR UTILITY FACILITY"; BY AMENDING ARTICLE 3 OF CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58, RELATING TO CERTIFICATION OF MAJOR UTILITY FACILITIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A LIKE FACILITY, TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR PROPOSED FACILITIES, TO PROVIDE WHAT ACTIONS MAY BE TAKEN WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE COMMISSION, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-40, RELATING TO INTEGRATED RESOURCES PLANS, SO AS TO ADD CONSIDERATION OF A UTILITY'S TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION RESOURCE PLAN, TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION BY THE COMMISSION, AND REQUIRE PARTIES TO BEAR THEIR OWN COSTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-260, RELATING TO COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN THE COMMISSION AND PARTIES, SO AS TO MODIFY REQUIREMENTS FOR ALLOWABLE EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS AND BRIEFINGS, AND TO PERMIT COMMISSION TOURS OF UTILITY PLANTS OR OTHER FACILITIES UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-270, RELATING TO EX PARTE COMMUNICATION COMPLAINT PROCEEDINGS AT THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SO AS TO PERMIT AN ORDER TOLLING ANY DEADLINES ON A PROCEEDING SUBJECT TO A COMPLAINT TO THE EXTENT THE PROCEEDING WAS PREJUDICED SO THAT THE COMMISSION COULD NOT CONSIDER THE MATTER IMPARTIALLY; BY ADDING CHAPTER 43 TO TITLE 58 SO AS TO ESTABLISH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RATES FOR ELECTRICAL UTILITIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-310, RELATING TO AN APPEAL FROM A FINAL ORDER OR DECISION OF THE COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE A FINAL ORDER ISSUED PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 33, TITLE 58 BE IMMEDIATELY APPEALABLE TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT AND TO PROVIDE FOR AN EXPEDITED HEARING; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-33-320, RELATING TO JOINT HEARINGS AND JOINT INVESTIGATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-160 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF TO CONDUCT A STUDY TO EVALUATE ESTABLISHING A THIRD-PARTY ADMINISTRATOR FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO ADD A REFERENCE TO "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM" AND PROVIDE DEFINITIONS FOR "COST-EFFECTIVE" AND "DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PILOT PROGRAM"; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-20, RELATING TO COMMISSION PROCEDURES ENCOURAGING ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS, SO AS TO EXPAND COMMISSION CONSIDERATIONS FOR COST-EFFECTIVE, DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS, AND REQUIRE EACH INVESTOR-OWNED ELECTRICAL UTILITY TO SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMISSION REGARDING ITS DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-30, RELATING TO REPORTS ON DEMAND-SIDE ACTIVITIES, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE; BY ADDING SECTION 58-37-35 SO AS TO PERMIT PROGRAMS AND CUSTOMER INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE OR PROMOTE DEMAND-SIDE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS FOR CUSTOMER-SITED DISTRIBUTION RESOURCES, AND TO PROVIDE CONSIDERATIONS FOR THESE PROGRAMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-37-50, RELATING TO AGREEMENTS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, SO AS TO ESTABLISH CERTAIN TERMS AND RATE RECOVERY FOR AGREEMENTS FOR FINANCING AND INSTALLING ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION MEASURES, AND FOR APPLICATION TO A RESIDENCE OCCUPIED BEFORE THE MEASURES ARE TAKEN; BY ADDING SECTION 58-31-215 SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC SERVICE AUTHORITY, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, TO SERVE AS AN ANCHOR SUBSCRIBER OF NATURAL GAS AND PIPELINE CAPACITY FOR THIS STATE, TO ESTABLISH THE "ENERGY INVESTMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND," AND TO PROVIDE FOR RELATED REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-3-70, RELATING TO COMPENSATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION MEMBERS, SO AS TO ESTABLISH SALARIES IN AMOUNTS EQUAL TO NINETY-SEVEN AND ONE-HALF PERCENT OF SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-41-50 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS AND CONSIDERATION FOR CO-LOCATED RESOURCES BETWEEN A UTILITY AND ITS CUSTOMER UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; BY ADDING SECTION 58-4-15 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER ADVOCACY WITHIN THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF AND TO TRANSFER THE DUTIES OF THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER ADVOCACY IN THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO THE OFFICE OF REGULATORY STAFF; BY AMENDING SECTION 58-40-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCE"; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
lc-0018ha25.docx

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

H. 3472 (Word version) -- Reps. McCabe, W. Newton, Pedalino, Hixon, Gibson, Gagnon, Calhoon, Mitchell, Yow and Ligon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 62-3-1201, RELATING TO COLLECTION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY BY AFFIDAVIT, SO AS TO INCREASE THE LIMIT OF AN ESTATE TO FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 62-3-1203, RELATING TO SMALL ESTATES AND SUMMARY ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE LIMIT OF AN ESTATE TO FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 62-3-1204, RELATING TO SMALL ESTATES AND CLOSING BY SWORN STATEMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE, SO AS TO INCREASE THE LIMIT OF AN ESTATE TO FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS.
lc-0048ha25.docx

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

H. 3523 (Word version) -- Reps. J. E. Johnson, W. Newton, Robbins, Mitchell, Pedalino, Taylor, Long, Bailey, Calhoon, Yow, Weeks, Erickson, Bradley, Hager, Whitmire, Hixon, Cromer, Gilreath, Oremus and Hartz: 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 NECESSARY DEFINITIONS, TO REVISE THE PREVIOUS OFFENSE OF RETAIL THEFT TO CREATE THE OFFENSES OF ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME AND ORGANIZED RETAIL CRIME OF AN AGGRAVATED NATURE, AND TO PROVIDE A GRADUATED PENALTY STRUCTURE.
lc-0071ahb25.docx

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

H. 3862 (Word version) -- Reps. Erickson, G. M. Smith, Gilliam, Mitchell and M. M. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-40-50, RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOL ADMISSIONS PREFERENCES, SO AS TO REVISE CRITERIA FOR ADMISSIONS PREFERENCES, AND TO ADD PROVISIONS CONCERNING STUDENTS WITH MULTIPLE ENROLLMENT PREFERENCES.
lc-0252wab25.docx

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

H. 3995 (Word version) -- Rep. McDaniel: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE BUNYON THOMPSON FAMILY TO FAIRFIELD COUNTY AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF TOMMIE LEE AND EUNICE SHELTON THOMPSON, GETHSEMANE SCHOOL, AND GETHSEMANE BAPTIST CHURCH.
lc-0237sa-gm25.docx

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

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEE

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

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.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

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

S. 171 (Word version) -- Senators Gambrell and Garrett: 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.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., February 12, 2025

Mr. President and Senators:

The House respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has confirmed the appointment:

LOCAL APPOINTMENT

Initial Appointment, Berkeley County Master-in-Equity, with term to commence November 7, 2020, and to expire November 7, 2026:

J. Camden West, Esquire, 208 McCants Drive, Moncks Corner, South Carolina 29461 VICE The Honorable Dale Van Slambrook
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

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

SECOND READING BILL

S. 213 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 919 OF 1928, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE GREENVILLE AIRPORT COMMISSION, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AUTHORIZED TOTAL INDEBTEDNESS TO TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS.

On motion of Senator TURNER.

S. 213--Ordered to a Third Reading

On motion of Senator TURNER, S. 213 was ordered to receive a third reading on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.

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 GROOMS, 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 MATTHEWS 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 MATTHEWS objected to consideration of the Bill.

OBJECTION

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.

Senator MATTHEWS objected to consideration of the Bill.

OBJECTION

S. 78 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree, Young, Zell and Devine: 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.

Senator MATTHEWS objected to consideration of the Bill.

OBJECTION

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.

Senator MATTHEWS objected to consideration of the Bill.

CARRIED OVER

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.

The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Resolution.

Senator MASSEY explained the Resolution.