NO. 23
Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 1:00 P.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:
Psalm 133:1
The Psalmist reminds us: "How good it is when kindred live together in unity."
Let us pray: O Holy God, we are bombarded by tragic news whenever we hear or read about what is going on across our country, as well as here in South Carolina. Tragic shootings, easy access to weapons, accidents on the roads, house fires -- the headlines and the stories break our hearts. And we are reminded over and over that we are not at all living as the people You want us to be. So we pray, Lord, that You will inspire these Senators and their aides to continue doing all they can to help us become the people You want us to be: citizens who genuinely care for one another. Guide these leaders to do everything possible to promote a safer Nation and State. May our children, may all of us experience loving unity, O Lord -- to Your glory. Plus, Oh Lord, we hold in our thoughts and prayers Senator PEELER and his family in the death last evening of the Senator's mother, Sally Bratton Peeler. In Your blessed name we pray. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
Senator VERDIN moved that a Call of the Senate be made. The following Senators answered the Call:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
Senator MATTHEWS introduced Dr. Dawn Bingham of Irmo, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator SABB, at 2:06 P.M., Senator GRAHAM and Senator PEELER were granted a leave of absence for the balance of the week.
On motion of Senator STUBBS, at 2:09 P.M., Senator CHAPLIN was granted a leave of absence for today.
Senator CAMPSEN rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 105 (Word version) Sens. Johnson and Reichenbach
S. 127 (Word version) Sen. Peeler
S. 159 (Word version) Sen. Alexander
S. 165 (Word version) Sen. Graham
S. 183 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 189 (Word version) Sen. Turner
S. 191 (Word version) Sen. Turner
S. 264 (Word version) Sens. Rice, Corbin and Bennett
S. 330 (Word version) Sen. Allen
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.
On motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, the Bill was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary and committed to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
S. 339 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen and Sutton: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO DECLARE THE NIGHTS OF MARCH THROUGH MAY AND AUGUST THROUGH OCTOBER AS "LIGHTS OUT NIGHTS IN SOUTH CAROLINA SEASON" AND TO URGE SOUTH CAROLINA RESIDENTS TO TURN OUT NON-ESSENTIAL LIGHTS AT NIGHT DURING THESE CRITICAL PERIODS IN THE SPRING AND FALL FOR THE PROTECTION OF BIRDS IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
Senator CAMPSEN asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Senate Resolution from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
The Senate Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
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.
Senator MASSEY asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Bill from the Committee on Judiciary.
The Bill was recalled from the Committee on Judiciary and ordered placed on the Calendar for consideration tomorrow.
The following were introduced:
S. 359 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-10-95, RELATING TO CREDIT AGAINST WITHHOLDING FOR RETRAINING, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN INCREASE IN THE CREDIT AMOUNT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 360 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-33-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN THE NURSE PRACTICE ACT, SO AS TO REMOVE DEFINITIONS CONCERNING APPROVED WRITTEN GUIDELINES FOR PRACTICE BY CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETISTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-33-34, RELATING TO PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES, SO AS TO REVISE PROVISIONS CONCERNING CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETISTS BY REMOVING SUPERVISED PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS AND PROVIDE PRESCRIPTIVE PRACTICE AUTHORITY, AMONG OTHER THINGS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 40-47-197 RELATING TO SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETISTS BY PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
S. 361 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE IRENE JACKSON JONES OF RICHLAND COUNTY ON THE OCCASION OF HER NINETIETH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HER A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MANY YEARS OF CONTINUED HEALTH AND HAPPINESS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 362 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 16-19-5 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO PAYS A FEE TO PLAY A GAME IN WHICH SKILL PREDOMINATES OVER CHANCE AND RECEIVES A PRIZE PROPORTIONATE TO HOW SKILLFULLY HE PLAYED IS NOT GAMBLING.
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Senator ADAMS spoke on the Bill.
Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 363 (Word version) -- Fish, Game and Forestry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS APPLICABLE TO SPECIFIC PROPERTIES, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5329, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.
S. 364 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE A. FOSTER MCKISSICK III FOR BEING NOMINATED FOR THE 2025 TIME DEALER OF THE YEAR AWARD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
H. 3222 (Word version) -- Reps. Bailey and Chapman: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 4-9-145, RELATING TO LITTER CONTROL OFFICERS, SO AS TO REVISE THE MEANS FOR DETERMINING THE LIMIT ON THE NUMBER OF LITTER CONTROL OFFICERS THAT A COUNTY MAY APPOINT AND COMMISSION, AND TO CORRECT AN INCORRECT REFERENCE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 3510 (Word version) -- Reps. Gilliam, Davis, M. M. Smith, Vaughan, Chapman, Kirby, Landing, Bustos, Yow, Mitchell, Hart, Williams, Luck, Gagnon and Weeks: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-40, RELATING TO COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECRETARY OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS SHALL APPOINT ONE COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICER FOR EACH COUNTY IN THE STATE AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL APPROPRIATE THE NECESSARY FUNDS FOR TWO FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES IN EACH COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
H. 3798 (Word version) -- Reps. Murphy, G. M. Smith, Brewer, T. Moore, Guest, Hager, Yow, Mitchell, W. Newton, Lawson, Stavrinakis, Govan, Erickson, Bradley, Weeks, Hart, Williams, Rivers and Gilliard: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 25-1-180 SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN CRITERIA FOR MILITARY CHAPLAINS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT MILITARY CHAPLAINS HAVE THE PRIVILEGE TO REFUSE TO DISCLOSE CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
H. 3813 (Word version) -- Rep. Hixon: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-11-430, RELATING TO BEAR HUNTING, SO AS TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO A REGISTERED PARTY DOG HUNT IN GAME ZONE 1.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
H. 3814 (Word version) -- Rep. Hixon: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT THE SURFACE WATER STUDY COMMITTEE MAY STUDY THE CURRENT STATE OF GROUNDWATER IN THIS STATE AND TO POSTPONE THE DUE DATE OF THE COMMITTEE'S REPORT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources.
H. 4021 (Word version) -- Reps. Schuessler, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, 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, Erickson, 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, McGinnis, 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, 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 TRAVIS E. OVERTON FOR HIS SEVENTEEN YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA AS A MEMBER OF THE COASTAL CAROLINA UNIVERSITY FAMILY IN SUPPORT OF ITS STUDENTS, FACULTY, STAFF, ALUMNI, AND FRIENDS, AND TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON HIS SUDDEN PASSING.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4022 (Word version) -- Reps. Hardee, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, 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, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, 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, McGinnis, 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 CONGRATULATE W. PAUL PRINCE FOR HIS SIXTY YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE LORIS FIRE DEPARTMENT AS A VOLUNTEER CHAPLAIN AND FIRST RESPONDER AND COMMEND HIM FOR HIS DEDICATION TO THE CITIZENS OF HORRY COUNTY.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4023 (Word version) -- Reps. Hardee, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, 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, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, 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, McGinnis, 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 CONGRATULATE AND HONOR SHORTY'S GRILL FOR DECADES OF SERVICE AS A CULINARY INSTITUTION IN LORIS, SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
H. 4024 (Word version) -- Reps. Hardee, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, 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, Erickson, Forrest, Frank, Gagnon, Garvin, Gatch, Gibson, Gilliam, Gilliard, Gilreath, Govan, Grant, Guest, Guffey, Haddon, Hager, 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, McGinnis, 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 CONGRATULATE DR. EDWARD ECKERT JR., DDS FOR HIS MANY YEARS OF SERVICE OF HARD WORK AND DEDICATION TO THE HORRY AND GEORGETOWN COUNTIES.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered returned to the House.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
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, Williams, Goldfinch, Bennett, Reichenbach, Elliott, Chaplin, Verdin, Kennedy and Alexander: 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
S. 125 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Sutton: 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:
S. 127 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson and Peeler: 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:
S. 136 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder, Leber and Kimbrell: 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 SOUTH CAROLINA 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:
S. 156 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Garrett, Stubbs, Adams and Bennett: 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:
S. 157 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin and Graham: 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 IN ITS COST OF CAPITAL FROM THE DATE OF THE STORM 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:
S. 159 (Word version) -- Senators Turner, Garrett, Climer, Adams, Graham and Alexander: 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable report on:
S. 165 (Word version) -- Senators Campsen and Graham: 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
S. 183 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Fernandez, Alexander, Garrett, Leber and Kimbrell: 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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
S. 219 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-5-2730, RELATING TO THE APPLICABILITY OF FEDERAL FISHING REGULATIONS IN STATE WATERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE SEASON, CATCH LIMITS, AND MINIMUM SIZES FOR CERTAIN SPECIES UNDER THE SNAPPER-GROUPER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:
S. 264 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Climer, Ott, Johnson, Kimbrell, Williams, Turner, Rice and Corbin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-37-160 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY MAY NOT BE ANNEXED BY A MUNICIPALITY WITHOUT EXPRESS WRITTEN AGREEMENT OF THE OWNER.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable report on:
S. 291 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander and Bennett: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUING AUTHORITY TO PAY THE EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT IF THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR BEGINS WITHOUT A GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 HAVING BEEN ENACTED, AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator PEELER from the Committee on Finance submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
S. 318 (Word version) -- Senators Goldfinch, Alexander, Johnson, Fernandez, Gambrell, Stubbs, Grooms, Climer, Leber, Cash, Kimbrell, Davis, Young, Peeler, Corbin, Turner, Rice and Verdin: A JOINT RESOLUTION SO AS TO ENACT THE "COMMISSION ON FISCAL RESTRAINT AND GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY"; TO PROVIDE FOR THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION; TO PROVIDE FOR THE COMMISSION'S DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS; TO PRIORITIZE SPENDING CUTS AND ESTABLISH A DATE THAT THE SPENDING CUTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND THE GOVERNOR; TO PROVIDE FOR THE REPORT ON THE COMMISSION'S OTHER DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS; AND TO SUNSET THE COMMISSION.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, Department of Natural Resources Board, with the term to commence July 1, 2024, and to expire July 1, 2028
7th Congressional District:
Jerry Lee, 2611 Hanna Lake Road, Johnsonville, SC 29555-5241
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
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. 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 KIMBRELL objected to consideration of the Bill.
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 KIMBRELL objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (op), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-19-85(A) and (B) and inserting:
(A) Each public school governing body, including the governing bodies of charter schools and special schools, must make reasonable efforts to ensure the entirety of the regularly scheduled or special called all meetings subject to the provisions of the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act of its full governing body are open and accessible to the public and also available by means of live video and audio electronic access, hereafter referred to as livestream access, except during a lawful executive session.
(B) If a governing body cannot provide such livestream access to the public despite making reasonable efforts to restore livestream access during the meeting, it must make a clear audio and video recording of the meeting in its entirety available on its website as soon as practicable and in no more than two business seven days after the meeting.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 2 and inserting:
SECTION 2. The provisions of this act must be implemented by July 1, 2025January 1, 2026.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator HEMBREE explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator MARTIN proposed the following amendment (SR-77.CEM0002S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 59-19-85, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) Implementation of this section and the requirements of this section are contingent upon the General Assembly appropriating adequate funding from the Education Lottery Account pursuant to Section 59-150-390.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senators MARTIN and JACKSON proposed the following amendment (SR-77.CEM0003S), which was withdrawn:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-19-85(A) and (B) and inserting:
(A) Each public school governing body, including the governing bodies of charter schools and special schools, must, as funding is provided by the State, make reasonable efforts to ensure the entirety of the regularly scheduled or special called meetings of its full governing body are open and accessible to the public and also available by means of live video and audio electronic access, hereafter referred to as livestream access, except during a lawful executive session.
(B) If a governing body cannot provide such livestream access to the public despite making reasonable efforts to restore livestream access during the meeting, it must, as funding is provided by the State, make a clear audio and video recording of the meeting in its entirety available on its website as soon as practicable and in no more than two business days after the meeting.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN explained the amendment.
Senator HEMBREE spoke on the amendment.
On motion of Senator MARTIN, with unanimous consent, the amendment was withdrawn.
Senators MARTIN and JACKSON proposed the following amendment (SR-77.CEM0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, Section 59-19-85, by adding a subsection to read:
(E) Funding by the State will be provided to those school districts without streaming capabilities as of the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator MARTIN 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:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Education proposed the following amendment (SEDU-78.KG0001S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 59-25-60(A), (B), (C), and (D) and inserting:
(A) When reviewing an application by an individual for an educator certificate, the State Department of Education shall award years of experience on the educator certificate for non-teaching occupational experience in, or related to, the content field of the certificate for which the individual qualifies. One year of experience credit may be awarded for every two years of full-time relevant work occupational experience completed by the individual. Years of experience shall be awarded solely for the purpose of advancement on the teacher salary schedule. Except for individuals seeking work-based certification, educator experience credit and relevant occupational experience eligible for educator experience credit must have been earned after the conferral of a bachelor's degree from a college or university meeting State Board of Education accreditation requirements. To be eligible for years of experience on the educator certificate, the individual must complete and submit a verification of relevant work occupational experience form developed by the State Department of Education with the application for an educator certificate.
(B) Individuals who entered the teaching profession prior to July 1, 2025, with non-teaching occupational experience in, or related to, the content field of their teaching certificate may complete and submit the verification of relevant work occupational experience form to the State Department of Education to have additional years of experience added to their certificate for the purposes of advancing on the teacher salary schedule. If additional years of experience are awarded, the eligible individual is entitled to have their pay adjusted for the current school year, from the effective date of the adjustment, to reflect the new experience step on the employing district's salary schedule. However, the individual is not entitled to retroactive pay for the increased years of experience during prior years of teaching or for any purpose other than advancement on the teacher salary schedule.
(C) Nothing in this section alters any existing requirements for receiving an educator certificate. Individuals with the work occupational experience identified in subsection (A) must still meet all other existing requirements in order to receive an educator certificate.
(D) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted as allowing additional years of experience to be awarded for purposes other than advancement on the teacher salary schedule. Years of experience awarded pursuant to this section for relevant work occupational experience are not considered service credit for the purposes of the state retirement or state health plans administered by PEBA.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTION 2 and inserting:
SECTION 2. The State Department of Education shall develop guidelines for purposes of implementation of this act and make available the work non-teaching occupational experience verification form described in this act no later than ninety one hundred eighty days after the approval by the Governor.
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:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Campsen Cash Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Williams Young Zell
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
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 ADAMS objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
Senator MARTIN 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.
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.
Senator MARTIN 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.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senators MASSEY, ALEXANDER, ADAMS, ALLEN, BENNETT, BLACKMON, CAMPSEN, CASH, CHAPLIN, CLIMER, CORBIN, CROMER, DAVIS, DEVINE, ELLIOTT, FERNANDEZ, GAMBRELL, GARRETT, GOLDFINCH, GRAHAM, GROOMS, HEMBREE, HUTTO, JACKSON, JOHNSON, KENNEDY, KIMBRELL, LEBER, MARTIN, MATTHEWS, NUTT, OTT, 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 Ms. Sally Bratton Peeler of Gaffney, S.C. Sally was the mother of our beloved Senator Peeler. She was a graduate of Gaffney High School, Limestone College and Winthrop College. Sally was a lifelong educator and retired as principal of Alma Elementary School where she served for twenty-five years. She was a volunteer with Meals on Wheels, an active member of First Baptist Church Gaffney and a member of various professional organizations. Sally was a loving mother, doting grandmother and a remarkable woman who will be dearly missed.
At 2:19 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.
This web page was last updated on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 2:52 P.M.