NO. 27
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:
I Samuel 17:4 and 32
Recall that in the David and Goliath story: "A champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out of the Philistine camp. He was over nine feet tall." And ultimately we read, "David said to Saul, 'Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.'"
Let us bow together in prayer: Holy God, just as You gave courage to David when he went out to confront the giant, so do we ask You to grant to each of these Senators the inner strength, fortitude, and wisdom as they serve South Carolina. Bless them as You alone can, bestowing on each of these leaders the diligence and righteousness necessary as they strive to carry out the many, many duties required of them. And in addition, O Lord, likewise be with our women and men in uniform wherever they might serve around the globe. May each one of them also be emboldened -- and kept safe -- by Your holy presence. We pray all of this in Your most precious name, dear Lord. Amen.
The PRESIDENT called for Petitions, Memorials, Presentments of Grand Juries and such like papers.
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 Elliott Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.
Senator FERNANDEZ introduced Dr. C. Bryan Jordan of St. George, S.C., Doctor of the Day.
On motion of Senator CROMER, at 1:07 P.M., Senator CAMPSEN was granted a leave of absence for today.
At 3:31 P.M., Senator ZELL requested a leave of absence for Thursday, February 26, 2025.
The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 2 (Word version) Sen. Sutton
S. 45 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 54 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 79 (Word version) Sen. Zell
S. 125 (Word version) Sens. Devine and Walker
S. 157 (Word version) Sen. Garrett
S. 165 (Word version) Sen. Sutton
S. 254 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 264 (Word version) Sen. Alexander
S. 275 (Word version) Sens. Walker, Climer and Zell
S. 307 (Word version) Sens. Kimbrell and Williams
S. 330 (Word version) Sen. Hembree
S. 342 (Word version) Sen. Graham
S. 355 (Word version) Sen. Sutton
S. 360 (Word version) Sen. Ott
S. 383 (Word version) Sen. Goldfinch
S. 60 (Word version) -- Senators Bennett, Blackmon, Davis and Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-5-15, RELATING TO SECURING DEPOSITS OF FUNDS BY LOCAL ENTITIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE PROVISIONS CONCERNING CREDIT UNIONS AND THE NATIONAL CREDIT UNION SHARE INSURANCE FUND.
On motion of Senator CROMER, with unanimous consent, the Bill was recalled from the Committee on Finance and committed to the Committee on Banking and Insurance.
H. 3941 (Word version) -- Rep. Cobb-Hunter: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO DECLARE APRIL 28, 2025, AS "WORKERS' MEMORIAL DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA IN TRIBUTE TO THE WORKING MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES BECAUSE OF WORKPLACE INJURIES AND ILLNESSES.
Senator DAVIS asked unanimous consent to make a motion to recall the Resolution from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
The Resolution was recalled from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
Senator DAVIS 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 DAVIS, the Resolution was adopted and ordered returned to the House.
The following were introduced:
S. 385 (Word version) -- Senator Devine: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "WOMEN'S CHILDBIRTH ALTERNATIVES, RESOURCES, AND EDUCATION (CARE) ACT" BY ADDING ARTICLE 21, CHAPTER 13 TO TITLE 24 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR PREGNANCY TESTING OF CERTAIN WOMEN AFTER ADMISSION TO CERTAIN INCARCERATION FACILITIES, THE SUPERVISED PREINCARCERATION PROBATION OF PREGNANT WOMEN UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, THE SELF SURRENDER OF WOMEN SERVING PREINCARCERATION TERMS OF PROBATION TWELVE WEEKS AFTER THE BIRTH OF THEIR CHILDREN, CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO SURRENDER, PROCEDURES FOR WOMEN TO FOLLOW IF THEY LOSE THEIR PREGNANCIES WHILE ON PREINCARCERATION PROBATION, AND CERTAIN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Corrections and Penology.
S. 386 (Word version) -- Senator Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 23-31-600, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF IDENTIFICATION CARDS TO QUALIFIED RETIRED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH QUALIFIED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS MAY CARRY CONCEALED WEAPONS, AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRAINING TO QUALIFY TO CARRY FIREARMS THAT MUST BE OFFERED TO QUALIFIED RETIRED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT RESTRICTS THE CARRYING OF CONCEALED WEAPONS ONTO CERTAIN PREMISES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 387 (Word version) -- Senator Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-10, RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE A MEDIUM SPEED VEHICLE; BY ADDING SECTION 56-2-107 SO AS TO PROVIDE CONDITIONS FOR OPERATION OF MEDIUM SPEED VEHICLES; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-2-110, RELATING TO DRIVER'S LICENSES AND REGISTRATION CARDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR A DRIVER OF A MEDIUM SPEED VEHICLE; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-2-120, RELATING TO TITLE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE TITLE OF A MEDIUM SPEED VEHICLE; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-2-130, RELATING TO DEALER LICENSING, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
S. 388 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, RELATING TO PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5322, 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. 389 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION, RELATING TO LIFE SCHOLARSHIP AND SCHOLARSHIP ENHANCEMENT, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5321, 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. 390 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO ASSESSMENT PROGRAM, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5359, 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. 391 (Word version) -- Education Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION AT THE ADVANCED LEVEL, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5318, 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. 392 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE SOUTH CAROLINA AS A TECHNOLOGY FIRST STATE, COMMITTED TO THE EXPLORATION AND UNDERSTANDING OF ENABLING AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTS THAT MAY ALLOW ALL SOUTH CAROLINIANS WITH DISABILITIES GREATER OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE INDEPENDENT AND FULFILLING LIVES.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
S. 393 (Word version) -- Senators Elliott, Ott, Blackmon, Chaplin, Cromer, Gambrell, Hembree, Nutt, Sutton and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-37-35 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTOMETRY MAY ISSUE RESTRICTED VOLUNTEER MEMBER LICENSES TO OPTOMETRISTS FROM OTHER STATES WHO MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA, AND TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SUPERVISION, DURATION, AND REGULATION OF SUCH LICENSES, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-10, RELATING TO MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SOUTH CAROLINA BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTOMETRY, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF OPTOMETRISTS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-30, RELATING TO LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PRACTICE OF OPTOMETRY, SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES THAT CONSTITUTE THE PRACTICE OF OPTOMETRY; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-40, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD SHALL REQUIRE LICENSED OPTOMETRISTS TO MEET EDUCATIONAL AND COMPETENCE REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED BY THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-245, RELATING TO EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT, SO AS TO ALLOW EXAMINATION EQUIVALENTS AS DETERMINED BY THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-290, RELATING TO THE PURCHASING, PRESCRIBING, AND ADMINISTERING PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS BY OPTOMETRISTS, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS AND LIMIT THE PERMISSIBLE USE OF SUCH MEDICATIONS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-310, RELATING TO REFERRALS FOR TREATMENT OF EYE DISEASES, SO AS TO REMOVE PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE TREATMENT OF GLAUCOMA AND PROVISION OF SURGERY; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-330, RELATING TO USE OF OPTOMETRISTS' SERVICES AUTHORIZED FOR AGENCY AND SCHOOL-REQUIRED EXAMINATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE OPTOMETRISTS MAY PROVIDE VISION OR EYE CARE SERVICES AT A SCHOOL IF APPROVED BY THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE INDIVIDUAL SCHOOL; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-37-420, RELATING TO PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING CERTAIN LICENSEES, SO AS TO DELETE THE EXISTING PROVISIONS, TO PROVIDE PERSONS LICENSED AS OPHTHALMOLOGISTS IN THIS STATE MAY CONTINUE PRACTICING UNDER CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS EXCEPT THAT SUCH PERSONS LICENSED BEFORE JANUARY 1, 2013, MUST FULFILL CREDENTIALING REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM CERTAIN TREATMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-79-30, RELATING TO PROVISIONS LIMITING LIABILITY FOR VOLUNTEER HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS UNDER MEDICAL MALPRACTICE INSURANCE LAWS, SO AS TO REMOVE A PROVISION CONCERNING NOTICE REQUIREMENTS TO PATIENTS, AND TO INCLUDE OPTOMETRISTS AMONG THE VOLUNTEERS INCLUDED IN THESE PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 44-30-310, RELATING TO IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY FOR FREE HEALTHCARE SERVICES, SO AS TO INCLUDE VOLUNTEER OPTOMETRISTS; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 40-37-300 RELATING TO ESTABLISHING PHARMACIES OR SELLING PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS, AND DISPENSING CONTACT LENSES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
S. 394 (Word version) -- Senators Sabb, Adams, Alexander, 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, Massey, Matthews, Nutt, Ott, Peeler, Rankin, Reichenbach, Rice, Stubbs, Sutton, Tedder, Turner, Verdin, Walker, Williams, Young and Zell: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR CANCER PATIENTS, SURVIVORS, AND THEIR FAMILIES, TO REMEMBER THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN LOST TO CANCER, AND TO RECOGNIZE FEBRUARY 26, 2025 AS "SUITS AND SNEAKERS DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.
S. 395 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 32-2-10, RELATING TO HOLD HARMLESS CLAUSES IN CERTAIN CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN INDEMNIFICATION PROVISIONS IN CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENTS AND DESIGN PROFESSIONAL AGREEMENTS ARE UNENFORCEABLE IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO DEFINE TERMS RELATED TO HOLD HARMLESS CLAUSES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 396 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander and Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 12-20-50, RELATING TO THE IMPOSITION OF LICENSE TAXES ON CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE FEE DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY PORTION OF THE FIRST FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS OF CERTAIN CAPITAL STOCK AND PAID-IN OR CAPITAL SURPLUS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 33-44-409, RELATING TO STANDARDS OF CONDUCT, SO AS TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION TO REFRAINING FROM COMPETING.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
S. 397 (Word version) -- Senator Tedder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 38-3-250 SO AS TO REQUIRE INSURERS OFFERING LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICIES OR LIQUOR LIABILITY ENDORSEMENTS TO GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE POLICIES TO PROVIDE CERTAIN INFORMATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE ANNUALLY AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE TO REPORT THAT INFORMATION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ANNUALLY; AND BY ADDING SECTION 61-2-270 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO REPORT TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY INFORMATION ABOUT ON-PREMISES BEER AND WINE CONSUMPTION PERMITS AND ON-PREMISES ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR PERMITS ANNUALLY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 398 (Word version) -- Senators Stubbs and Zell: A Bill TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 22-1-10, RELATING TO APPOINTMENT REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO ALLOW INDIVIDUALS WITH MILITARY OR LAW ENFORCEMENT EXPERIENCE TO BE ELIGIBLE TO BE APPOINTED A MAGISTRATE IN COUNTIES WITH LESS THAN FIFTY THOUSAND PEOPLE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 3048 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, G. M. Smith, Robbins, Pope, Chapman, Pedalino, Hartnett, Teeple, Davis, M. M. Smith, Wetmore and Long: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-5-130, RELATING TO CORONER QUALIFICATIONS, SO AS TO REVISE CORONER QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIRE A FINGERPRINT AND BACKGROUND CHECK OF CORONERS BEFORE THE GENERAL ELECTION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
H. 3430 (Word version) -- Reps. B. Newton, Murphy, Caskey, Mitchell, Pope, W. Newton, Bannister, Sessions, Jordan, Robbins, Collins, Martin, Lawson, Wickensimer, Landing, Long, Hiott, Forrest, Sanders, Teeple, Oremus, Hartz, Guest, Pedalino, M. M. Smith, Schuessler, Chapman, Gatch, McGinnis, Neese, Hardee, Ligon, Taylor, Willis, Vaughan, Brittain, Erickson, Bradley, Rankin, Hager, Whitmire, Gilliam, Crawford, Hewitt, Yow, Hixon, Ballentine, Gagnon and Brewer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 11-7-70 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT THE STATE AUDITOR WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 1-3-240, RELATING TO REMOVAL OF OFFICERS BY THE GOVERNOR, SO AS TO ADD THE STATE AUDITOR; AND BY REPEALING SECTION 11-7-10 RELATING TO THE SELECTION OF THE STATE AUDITOR.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.
H. 3431 (Word version) -- Reps. W. Newton, Wooten, Pope, Martin, Pedalino, McCravy, Bernstein, Guffey, Govan, T. Moore, Erickson, Bradley, Robbins, Calhoon, M. M. Smith and Crawford: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING ARTICLE 9 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 39 SO AS TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT A SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANY MAY NOT PERMIT CERTAIN MINORS TO BE ACCOUNT HOLDERS; TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES; TO PROVIDE THAT A SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANY SHALL PROVIDE CERTAIN PARENTS OR GUARDIANS WITH CERTAIN INFORMATION; TO PROVIDE THAT A SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANY SHALL RESTRICT SOCIAL MEDIA ACCESS TO MINORS DURING CERTAIN HOURS; TO PROVIDE FOR CONSUMER COMPLAINTS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE CONSUMER SERVICES DIVISION HAS AUTHORITY TO ADMINISTER AND ENFORCE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS; TO PROVIDE FOR AN ANNUAL REPORT; TO PROVIDE FOR A CAUSE OF ACTION; AND TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN WAIVERS AND LIMITATIONS ARE VOID.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.
H. 3563 (Word version) -- Reps. Davis, B. J. Cox, Spann-Wilder, McCravy, Taylor, Chapman, Kirby, Cromer, Gilreath, Weeks, Williams, Holman and Govan: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 25-11-50, RELATING TO COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECRETARY SHALL EVALUATE EACH COUNTY VETERANS' AFFAIRS OFFICE NO LESS THAN ONCE PER YEAR.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
H. 3654 (Word version) -- Reps. Calhoon, Bernstein and Spann-Wilder: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-7-1990 AND 63-11-550, BOTH RELATING TO CONFIDENTIALITY OF CHILD WELFARE RECORDS AND INFORMATION, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE DISCLOSURE OF CASE RECORDS TO COUNTY AND STATE GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM STAFF AND TO THE STATE CHILD ADVOCATE; AND BY AMENDING SECTIONS 63-11-700, 63-11-1340, AND 63-11-1360, RELATING TO CERTAIN DIVISIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY, SO AS TO UPDATE REFERENCES TO THE DEPARTMENT AND THESE DIVISIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.
H. 4083 (Word version) -- Reps. Bernstein, Alexander, Anderson, Atkinson, Bailey, Ballentine, Bamberg, Bannister, Bauer, Beach, 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, 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 HONOR MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS AND TO DECLARE APRIL 1, 2025, AS "SOUTH CAROLINA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
S. 79 (Word version) -- Senators Hembree and Zell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-1115 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A PILOT PROGRAM TO PERMIT PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO HIRE NONCERTIFIED TEACHERS IN A RATIO UP TO TEN PERCENT OF ITS ENTIRE TEACHING STAFF, TO PROVIDE ACADEMIC, EVALUATION, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, TO FURTHER THE PROGRAM FOR ANNUAL PROGRAM REPORTING, AND TO PROVIDE NONCERTIFIED TEACHER REGISTRATION AND CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator DAVIS from the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
S. 176 (Word version) -- Senator Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS AND PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS, SO AS TO CORRECT A CROSS REFERENCE IN THE DEFINITION OF "ATTEST", "PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTING", AND "SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCY"; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-30, RELATING TO LICENSING OR REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS AND FORMS FOR ISSUANCE OF REPORT BY PERSON OTHER THAN CPA OR PA, SO AS TO INCLUDE ELECTRONIC FILES AND METADATA TAGS AMONG THE ITEMS THAT MUST MEET CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS TO USE THE TITLE CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT, PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT, AND ABBREVIATIONS CPA AND PA; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-35, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSE TO PRACTICE, SO AS TO REVISE THE EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE, REVISE WHAT AN APPLICANT MUST HAVE ON RECORD WITH THE BOARD TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE WITH CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS, REVISE CERTAIN TIME REQUIREMENTS RELATED TO THE CPA EXAM, AND REVISE THE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE AN APPLICANT MUST HAVE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-40, RELATING TO THE GRANTING OR RENEWAL OF REGISTRATION TO PRACTICE AS FIRM, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO PERFORMS COMPILATION SERVICES MUST HOLD A REGISTRATION ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 40-2-40 AND PROVIDE THAT OWNERSHIP MAY ALSO BE HELD THROUGH A REVOCABLE GRANTOR TRUST; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-70, RELATING TO POWERS AND DUTIES OF BOARD, SO AS TO ADD REVIEW AND PROVIDE INPUT ON PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE CHANGES RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTING AS A POWER OF THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-80, RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS OF COMPLAINTS OR OTHER INFORMATION SUGGESTING VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INSPECTOR-INVESTIGATOR MUST HAVE BEEN LICENSED AS A CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT FOR AT LEAST THE PREVIOUS FIVE YEARS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-240, RELATING TO LICENSING OF PERSONS LICENSED IN ANOTHER STATE, SO AS TO REVISE HOW PERSONS LICENSED IN OTHER STATES CAN BE LICENSED IN THIS STATE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-245, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS TO PRACTICE IF LICENSED OUT OF STATE, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS TO PRACTICE IF LICENSED OUT OF STATE; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 40-2-20(18), SECTION 40-2-35(H), AND SECTION 40-2-35(I) OF THE S.C. CODE.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:
S. 184 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Young, Adams, Ott, Sutton and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 15-3-710 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BASIS FOR LIABILITY FOR A PERSON OR ESTABLISHMENT WHO UNLAWFULLY FURNISHES ALCOHOL TO AN INDIVIDUAL WHO INJURES A THIRD PARTY BASED UPON WHAT THE FURNISHER KNEW OR SHOULD HAVE KNOWN UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES; TO SPECIFY WHEN THE RIGHT OF ACTION IS NOT AVAILABLE, AND TO PROVIDE THE EVIDENTIARY STANDARD FOR VISIBLE INTOXICATION.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator RANKIN from the Committee on Judiciary submitted a favorable report on:
S. 244 (Word version) -- Senators Massey, Alexander, Rice, Turner, Climer, Williams, Bennett, Cromer, Grooms, Blackmon and Chaplin: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 15-38-15, RELATING TO THE APPORTIONMENT OF PERCENTAGES OF FAULT AND ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OR DRUG EXCEPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A JURY OR THE COURT SHALL DETERMINE THE PERCENTAGE OF FAULT OF THE CLAIMANT, THE DEFENDANT, AND OF ANY NONPARTY WHOSE ACT OR OMISSION WAS A PROXIMATE CAUSE OF THE CLAIMANT'S ALLEGED DAMAGES; BY REPEALING SECTION 15-38-20 RELATING TO RIGHT OF CONTRIBUTION; BY REPEALING SECTION 15-38-30 RELATING TO FACTORS DETERMINING PRO RATA LIABILITY OF TORTFEASORS; BY REPEALING SECTION 15-38-40 RELATING TO ACTIONS FOR CONTRIBUTION; BY ADDING SECTION 15-3-710 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; BY ADDING SECTION 15-3-720 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL IS PROHIBITED FROM RECOVERING DAMAGES IF THE INDIVIDUAL KNOWINGLY RIDES AS A PASSENGER IN A VEHICLE OPERATED BY A DRIVER WHO IS VISIBLY INTOXICATED OR WHOM THE INDIVIDUAL KNEW OR SHOULD HAVE KNOWN WOULD BECOME INTOXICATED; BY ADDING SECTION 15-3-730 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE CLERK OF COURT SHALL FORWARD A COPY OF THE COMPLAINT AND JUDGEMENT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE UPON ENTERING JUDGMENT AGAINST A LICENSEE; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-580, RELATING TO PROHIBITED ACTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR CIVIL LIABILITY; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-4-590, RELATING TO REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF PERMITS AND DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATION AND DETERMINATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT MAY REVOKE OR SUSPEND A PERMIT ON ITS OWN INITIATIVE UPON RECEIPT OF A COMPLAINT AND JUDGMENT; BY ADDING SECTION 61-3-100 SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-3-110 SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAINING SERVER AND MANAGER TRAINING; BY ADDING SECTION 61-3-120 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION OF AND APPROVAL OF TRAINING PROGRAMS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-3-130 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF ALCOHOL SERVER CERTIFICATES; BY ADDING SECTION 61-3-140 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE RENEWAL OF A PERMIT OR LICENSE; BY ADDING SECTION 61-3-150 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF RELEVANT PROVISIONS; BY ADDING SECTION 61-3-160 SO AS TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-60, RELATING TO THE PROMULGATION OF REGULATIONS SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT, IMPLEMENTATION, EDUCATION, AND ENFORCEMENT OF RESPONSIBLE ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING PROVISIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-6-2220, RELATING TO SALES TO INTOXICATED PERSONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON OR ESTABLISHMENT LICENSED TO SELL ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS OR LIQUOR BY THE DRINK PURSUANT TO THIS ARTICLE MAY NOT KNOWINGLY PROVIDE THESE BEVERAGES TO AN INTOXICATED PERSON; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-20, RELATING TO LICENSING, REQUIRED INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION, FEES, AND RENEWAL, SO AS TO INCLUDE LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-145, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE LIMITS; BY AMENDING SECTION 61-2-145, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENT OF LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN INSURER SHALL NOTIFY THE DEPARTMENT IF A PERSON LICENSED TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION EXCEEDS ITS AGGREGATE LIMIT PRIOR TO THE EXPIRATION OF THE POLICY; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-3-670, RELATING TO CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH LIMITATIONS PROVIDED BY SECTIONS 15-3-640 THROUGH 15-3-660 ARE NOT AVAILABLE AS DEFENSE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VIOLATION IS CONSIDERED MATERIAL ONLY IF IT EXISTS WITHIN A COMPLETED BUILDING, STRUCTURE, OR FACILITY WHICH HAS RESULTED IN PHYSICAL HARM TO A PERSON OR SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE PERFORMANCE OF A BUILDING OR ITS SYSTEMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-6540, RELATING TO PENALTIES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A VIOLATION IS ADMISSIBLE AS EVIDENCE OF COMPARATIVE NEGLIGENCE; BY ADDING SECTION 15-7-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A CIVIL ACTION TRIED AGAINST AN UNKNOWN DEFENDANT MUST BE TRIED IN THE COUNTY WHERE THE CAUSE OF ACTION AROSE; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-150, RELATING TO UNINSURED MOTORIST PROVISIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE UNINSURED MOTORIST PROVISION IS NOT REQUIRED TO INCLUDE COVERAGE FOR PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-77-160, RELATING TO ADDITIONAL UNINSURED MOTORIST COVERAGE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE CARRIERS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO INCLUDE COVERAGE FOR PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES IN THE MANDATORY OFFER OF UNDERINSURED MOTORISTS COVERAGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-78-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE OCCURRENCE; BY AMENDING SECTION 15-32-220, RELATING TO NONECONOMIC DAMAGES LIMIT AND EXCEPTIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR INTENT TO HARM, FELONY CONVICTIONS, AND INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS; AND BY ADDING SECTION 38-59-23 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ACTIONS FOR BAD FAITH INVOLVING A LIABILITY.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator YOUNG from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services submitted a favorable report on:
S. 276 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-400, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY MEDICAL RESPONSE SYSTEM ACT, SO AS TO RENAME THE ACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT NETWORK; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-410, RELATING TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY MEDICAL RESPONSE SYSTEM, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; BY AMENDING SECTION 63-11-420, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable with amendment report on:
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.
Ordered for consideration tomorrow.
Senator HEMBREE from the Committee on Education submitted a favorable report on:
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Arts Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2023, and to expire June 30, 2026
At-Large:
Russell Parks, Parks Consult, LLC, 242 Batson Pate Drive, Easley, SC 29640-6718 VICE Henry Horowitz
Received as information.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina State Commission on Higher Education, with the term to commence July 1, 2024, and to expire July 1, 2026
Public Research Institutions:
Charles Schulze, 720 Montague Ave., Greenwood, SC 29649 VICE Hubert F. Mobley
Received as information.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Arts Commission, with the term to commence June 30, 2024, and to expire June 30, 2027
At-Large:
Heidi B. Carey, Riley Pope and Laney, LLC, 2338 Devine Street, Columbia, SC 29205-2508 VICE Dr. Richard Webb
Received as information.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, with the term to commence July 1, 2025, and to expire July 1, 2029
At-Large:
Brian G. Cuddy, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, 2145 Henry Tecklenburg Drive, Suite 200, Charleston, SC 29414-5894 VICE Charles Dalton
Received as information.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Public Charter School District Board of Trustees, with the term to commence July 1, 2023, and to expire July 1, 2026
SC School Boards Association:
Craig Plank, 144 Flint Rock Lane, Blythewood, SC 29016-7222 VICE Kathleen Bounds
Received as information.
Senator YOUNG from the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services submitted a favorable report on:
Reappointment, South Carolina Commission for the Blind, with the term to commence May 19, 2024, and to expire May 19, 2026
7th Congressional District:
Susan L. John, 3755 Cedar Creek Run, Little River, SC 29566-8435
Received as information.
Reappointment, South Carolina State Board of Social Work Examiners, with the term to commence November 27, 2024, and to expire November 27, 2028
Master Social Worker:
Lynn T. Melton, 730 Plantation Road, Lancaster, SC 29720-1834
Received as information.
Initial Appointment, South Carolina Commission for the Blind, with the term to commence May 19, 2022, and to expire May 19, 2026
5th Congressional District:
Sonia Timmons, 917 Twin Valley Way, Fort Mill, SC 29715-0169 VICE Lynn Hornsby
Received as information.
THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO A CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED LOCAL AND STATEWIDE CALENDAR.
S. 384 (Word version) -- Senator Corbin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1 OF ACT 108 OF 2021 TO CHANGE THE BOUNDARIES OF THE BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY IN GREENVILLE COUNTY; AND TO PROHIBIT THE INSTALLATION OF CLUSTER SEPTIC SYSTEMS IN THE BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY AFTER THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ACT.
On motion of Senator CORBIN.
The following Bills and Resolution were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
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, Alexander and Walker: 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.
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.
S. 136 (Word version) -- Senators Tedder, Leber, Kimbrell and Rice: 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.
S. 156 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Garrett, Stubbs, Adams, Bennett, Kimbrell, Young, Turner and Peeler: 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.
S. 159 (Word version) -- Senators Turner, Garrett, Climer, Adams, Graham, Alexander, Young and Walker: 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.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Bill was recommitted to the Committee on Judiciary.
S. 183 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Fernandez, Alexander, Garrett, Leber, Kimbrell, Matthews and Walker: 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.
Senator HUTTO objected to consideration of the Bill.
The following Resolution was read the third time and ordered sent to the House:
S. 291 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander, Bennett and Cromer: 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.
The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.
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.
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.
On motion of Senator CORBIN, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator CORBIN, the Bill was carried over.
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.
On motion of Senator CORBIN, the Bill was carried over.
S. 125 (Word version) -- Senators Johnson, Sutton, Devine and Walker: 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.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Finance proposed the following amendment (LC-125.DG0002S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking SECTION 2 and inserting:
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor and applies prospectively to property of nonprofit housing corporations or their instrumentalities eligible and first making application for the exemption for property tax years beginning after 2025 2026. This act shall not apply to any project that, prior to approval by the Governor of this act, had submitted an application or been approved for an exemption under Section 12-37-220(B)(11)(e). Provided, however, all exempt projects under Section 12-37-220(B)(11)(e) are required to submit the required annual certifications to the department.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator VERDIN 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 Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker 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. 157 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Rankin, Graham and Garrett: 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 ELECTRICAL 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.
Senator RANKIN objected to consideration of the Bill.
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.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry proposed the following amendment (SFGF-219.BC0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 50-5-2730(B)(3) and inserting:
(3) all other species under the Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan. The lawful catch limits and lawful minimum sizes for those species are the bag limits and size limits, respectively, as published in the 2024-2025 South Carolina Hunting & Fishing Guide.The lawful catch limit for a species under that plan is the limit as published in the 2024-2025 South Carolina Hunting and Fishing Laws and Regulations Guide, or the federal limit for the species, whichever is higher. The lawful minimum size limit for a species under that plan is the size as published in the 2024-2025 South Carolina Hunting and Fishing Laws and Regulations Guide, or the federal limit for the species, whichever is lower. There is no closed season.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GOLDFINCH 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 Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker 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. 264 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Climer, Ott, Johnson, Kimbrell, Williams, Turner, Rice, Corbin, Bennett, Garrett and Alexander: 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.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
Senator RANKIN proposed the following amendment (OP), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:
SECTION X. Chapter 3, Title 5 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 5-3-25. No municipality may annex, under the provisions of this chapter, any real property upon which farm buildings or agricultural structures exempt from taxation pursuant to Section 12-37-220(B)(14) are situated or any real property that is assessed pursuant to Section 12-43-220(d), or any real property under direct or indirect common ownership that is adjacent to the exempt property, without the express written agreement of the owner of the real property to be annexed as provided in Section 12-37-160.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator RANKIN explained the amendment.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator VERDIN explained the Bill.
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 Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker 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. 2 (Word version) -- Senators Peeler, Alexander, Davis, Devine, Garrett, Jackson and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 12 TO TITLE 44 SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, TO PROVIDE FOR ITS POWERS, DUTIES, AND AUTHORITY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT IS COMPRISED OF THE OFFICE OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES, THE OFFICE OF MENTAL HEALTH, AND THE OFFICE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES. (ABBREVIATED TITLE)
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Medical Affairs proposed the following amendment (SR-2.KM0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-12-40(1) and inserting:
(1) shall develop and execute a cohesive and comprehensive plan for services provided by the offices housed within the department. The plan should ensure a maximum level of coordination among the component offices and should be continually updated to recognize operational efficiencies and maximize resource utilization. The plan should address how to ensure that services and support for South Carolinians with disabilities are, to the greatest extent possible, provided in the community instead of in an institutional setting in accordance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Olmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 581. The director shall appoint a Director of Community Living Integration who will be responsible for providing oversight in the assessment of the current state of community integration in South Carolina and in the creation of the community integration goals and objectives to be included in the State Health Plan. The Director of Community Living will report to the director and shall select an Americans with Disabilities Coordinator. The director shall establish and appoint members to a health planning advisory committee to provide advice in the development of the plan. Members of the advisory committee should include health care providers, representatives from the disabled community, disability advocacy agencies, consumers, payers, and public health professionals. When developing the community integration goals and objectives, the committee must seek input from people with disabilities of different types and varying levels of severity, family members of people with disabilities, and people currently providing services to the disabled community. The committee must identify objectives for the successful implementation of the community integration program. Members of the advisory committee are allowed the usual mileage and subsistence as provided for members of boards, committees, and commissions;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-12-40(3) and inserting:
(3) shall review and approve or disapprove all regulations promulgated by the component offices prior to their submission to the General Assemblyprocure collaboration technology that enables coordination and accountability across the department and with local partners. At a minimum, the technology should have the capability for authorized users to:
(a) securely access relevant information regarding the needs and care journey of individuals served;
(b) securely access relevant information concerning the needs and care journey of individuals served;
(c) communicate bi-directionally with referring organizations using a secure chat feature; and
(d) send referrals on behalf of the individual, track and store the outcome of that referral, and track and store the outcome of services delivered within a single client record using an unique identifier.;
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 44-12-50(A)(3) and inserting:
(3) the Office of Substance Abuse Use Services.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 3, by striking Section 8-17-370(21) and inserting:
(21) The Director of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, and all the department's employees who report directly to the director, and the director for each of the department's office's component offices.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 6, by striking Section 44-20-220 and inserting:
Section 44-20-220. The commission Director of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, in consultation with the director, shall determine the policy and promulgate regulations governing the operation of the department office and the employment of professional staff and personnel. The members of the commission shall receive subsistence, mileage, and per diem as may be provided by law for members of state boards, committees, and commissions. The commission shall appoint and in its discretion remove a South Carolina Director of Disabilities and Special Needs who is the chief executive officer of the department. Subject to the approval of the Director of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, the director The commission may appoint advisory committees it considers necessary to assist in the effective conduct of its the office's responsibilities. The commission director may educate the public and state and local officials as to the need for the funding, development, and coordination of services for persons with intellectual disability, related disabilities, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries and promote the best interest of persons with intellectual disability, related disabilities, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. The commission is authorized to promulgate regulations to carry out the provisions of this chapter and other laws related to intellectual disability, related disabilities, head injuries, or spinal cord injuries. In promulgating these regulations, the commission must consult with the advisory committee of the division for which the regulations shall apply.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 14, by striking Section 44-9-30(2)(B) and inserting:
(B) The members serve for terms of five years and until their successors are appointed and qualify. The terms of no more than two members may expire in one year. The Governor may remove a member pursuant to the provisions of Section 1-3-240. A vacancy must be filled by the Governor for the unexpired portion of the term.
The commissionSubject to the approval of the The Director of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, the office's director shall determine policies and promulgate regulations governing the operation of the department office and the employment of professional and staff personnel.
Amend the bill further, by striking SECTIONS 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24 and inserting:
SECTION X. Chapter 30, Title 1 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:
Section 1-30-150. The Departments of Health and Human Services, Veterans' Affairs, Administration, Public Health, Social Services, and Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities shall collaboratively develop and execute a cohesive and comprehensive plan that addresses how to ensure that services and support for South Carolinians with disabilities are, to the greatest extent possible, provided in the community instead of in an institutional setting in accordance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Olmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 581. The Director of the Department of Public Health shall appoint a Director of Community Living Integration who will be responsible for providing oversight in the assessment of the current state of community integration in South Carolina and in the creation of the community integration goals and objectives to be included in the State Health Plan. The Director of Community Living will report to the Director of the Department of Public Health and shall select an Americans with Disabilities Coordinator. The Director of the Department of Public Health shall establish and appoint members to a health planning advisory committee, upon consultation with the other departments charged with participating in developing the plan, to provide advice in the development of the plan. Members of the advisory committee should include health care providers, representatives from the disabled community, disability advocacy agencies, consumers, payers, and public health professionals. When developing the community integration goals and objectives, the committee must seek input from people with disabilities of different types and varying levels of severity, family members of people with disabilities, and people currently providing services to the disabled community. The committee must identify objectives for the successful implementation of the community integration program. Members of the advisory committee are allowed the usual mileage and subsistence as provided for members of boards, committees, and commissions.
SECTION X. Section 44-21-80 of the S.C. Code is amended to read:
Section 44-21-80. (A) The Medical University of South Carolina, the Prisma Health-University of South Carolina Medical Group Midlands, and the Prisma Health-University Medical Group are each hereby authorized, as agents of the State of South Carolina, to fulfill the role of Regional Tertiary Level Developmental Evaluation Centers, hereinafter collectively referred to as "developmental evaluation centers." providing comprehensive developmental assessment and treatment services for children with developmental disabilities, significant developmental delays, or behavioral or learning disorders.
(B) As developmental evaluation centers, the above named institutions shall provide neurodevelopmental evaluation and limited treatment services for individuals up to twenty one years of age who have a suspected or diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder or who are referred and accepted for services.a seamless continuum of developmental services, including medically necessary diagnostic and treatment services for the purpose of correcting or ameliorating physical or mental illnesses and conditions which, left untreated, would negatively impact the health and quality of life of South Carolina's children. Further, these centers shall work collectively with the teaching, training, and research entities of each institution, extending the state's efforts to prepare professionals to work in the field of developmental medicine, while lending expertise to the research efforts in this field.
(C) Contingent upon sufficient funding, The developmental evaluation centers shall work with institutions, state agencies, and other organizations to increase the number of neurodevelopmental professions, increase community provider neurodevelopmental services capacity through provider training programs, provide technical assistance to improve regionalized, community-based, and family centered systems of care for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, and participate in neurodevelopmental research. be involved in research, planning, and needs assessment of issues related to developmental disabilities and shall be committed to develop a regionalized system of community-based, family-centered care for children with developmental and behavioral disabilities. In so doing, the centers shall serve as primary points of entry for developmental evaluation services and as regional coordinators for the delivery of the services and are encouraged to affiliate with other providers thus enhancing the availability of high quality services for the children of South Carolina.
(D) For the purposes of this section, "neurodevelopmental disorders" are characterized by disruptions in the functioning neurological system and the brain, leading to difficulties in one or more of cognition, behavior, social interaction, communication, or motor function. Neurodevelopmental disorders primarily manifest early in development, typically during infancy, childhood, or adolescence.
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 26, by striking the subsection (C) and inserting:
(C) The Code Commissioner is directed to change references in the S.C. Code from "Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services" or "department" when referring to the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services" to "Office of Substance Abuse Use Services" or "office" as appropriate.
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 28, by striking subsection (C) and inserting:
(C) Except for those positions transferred pursuant to this section or otherwise specifically referenced in this act, employees of the Departments of Disabilities and Special Needs, Mental Health, or Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services shall maintain their same status with the appropriate component departments of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. Employees of the Department of Mental Health shall become employees of the Office of Mental Health within the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. Employees of the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs shall become employees of the Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities within the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. Employees of the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services shall become employees of the Office of Substance Use Services within the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator DAVIS 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 Cash Chaplin Climer Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
Corbin Martin
There being no further amendments, the Bill, as amended, was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
S. 275 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Walker, Zell and Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 58-27-10, RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE DEFINITIONS SO AS TO ADD DEFINITIONS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND CHARGING STATIONS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 58-27-1060, RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AN ELECTRIC UTILITY OR OTHER PROVIDER THAT OFFERS AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION DIRECTLY TO THE PUBLIC SHALL DO SO ON A NON-DISCRIMINATORY BASIS UNDER THE SAME FEES AND CONDITIONS OFFERED TO PRIVATE PROVIDERS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS; AND TO REGULATE REVENUE.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
The Committee on Transportation proposed the following amendment (OP), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 1, by striking Section 58-27-10(12) and inserting:
(12) "Direct current fast charging station" means an electric vehicle charging system capable of delivering electricity at a minimum of fifty kilowatts or greater direct current to an electric vehicle's rechargeable battery at a voltage of two hundred volts or greater and is separate and distinct from make-ready infrastructure.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 1, by striking Section 58-27-10(14), (15), and (16) and inserting:
(14) "Electric vehicle charging station" means any Level 2 charging station or direct current fast charging station that delivers electricity from a source outside an electric vehicle into one or more electric vehicles separate and distinct from a make-ready infrastructure.
(15) "Level 2 charging station" means any electric vehicle charging system capable of delivering electricity at a minimum of three kilowatts or at a maximum of fifty kilowatts alternating current to an electric vehicle's rechargeable battery at a voltage of two hundred volts or greater.
(16)(14) "Electric vehicle charging provider" means the owner of an electric vehicle charging station.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 58-27-1060(B), (C), and (D) and inserting:
(B) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the ability of an electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative to use provide and appropriately charge for the make-ready infrastructure required to serve the electrical load of electric vehicle charging stations or to furnish electricity to electric vehicle charging providers for charging electric vehicles, or to meet any state or federal grant funding. Any increases in customer demand or energy consumption associated with transportation electrification shall not constitute found revenues for an electrical utility.
(C) An electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative that provides, owns, operates, or maintains a direct current fast charging station for direct public use shall offer fair, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory rates and services to all entities providing similar services and shall not act in a manner that provides an unreasonable advantage for its direct current fast charging stations. an electric vehicle charging station directly to the public shall do so on a non-discriminatory basis under the same fees, terms, rates, charges, and conditions offered to private providers of electric vehicle charging stations in the designated service territory of an electric utility, municipality, the Public Service Authority, or electric cooperative.
(D) Revenue from services other than direct current fast charging stations received by an electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative, or its subsidiary or affiliate, for providing electric service shall not, directly or indirectly, subsidize investments in direct current fast charging stations owned or operated by such entities the ownership and operation of electric vehicle charging stations.
(E) Nothing in subsection (D) shall be construed to apply to a direct current fast charging station that was constructed, provided by, owned, operated or maintained by an electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative prior to the effective date of this act.
(F) Nothing in subsection (D) shall be construed to apply to a direct current fast charging station that are not public facing and located on the premises of an electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative for the sole purpose of serving its own electric vehicles or electric vehicles owned by its employees.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GROOMS explained the Bill.
The amendment was adopted.
Senator GROOMS proposed the following amendment (SR-275.CEM0004S), which was adopted:
Amend the bill, as and if amended, SECTION 2, by striking Section 58-27-1060(B) and inserting:
(B) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the ability of an electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative to use provide and appropriately charge for the make-ready infrastructure required to serve the electrical load of electric vehicle charging stations to furnish electricity to electric vehicle charging providers for charging electric vehicles, or to utilize any state or federal grant funding. Any increases in customer demand or energy consumption associated with transportation electrification shall not constitute found revenues for an electrical utility.
Amend the bill further, SECTION 2, by striking Section 58-27-1060(D) and (E) and inserting:
(D) Revenue received by an electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative or its subsidiary or affiliate from electric services other than direct current fast charging stations, shall not, directly or indirectly, subsidize investments in direct current fast charging stations owned or operated by such entities.
(E) Nothing in subsection (C) or (D) shall be construed to apply to a direct current fast charging station that was constructed, provided by, owned, operated or maintained by an electrical utility, a municipality, a consolidated political subdivision, the Public Service Authority, or an electric cooperative prior to the effective date of this act.
Renumber sections to conform.
Amend title to conform.
Senator GROOMS 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 Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker 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. 307 (Word version) -- Senators Climer, Kimbrell and Williams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING CHAPTER 36 TO TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE GUIDELINES FOR A PEER-TO-PEER CAR SHARING PROGRAM, TO OUTLINE INSURANCE AND LIABILITY PROCEDURES, AND TO PROVIDE DEFINITIONS.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Bill.
Senator CLIMER explained the Bill.
On motion of Senator CLIMER, the Bill was carried over.
S. 380 (Word version) -- Transportation Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION REGULATION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, RELATING TO SPECIFIC INFORMATION SERVICE SIGNING, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5358, 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 GROOMS explained the Resolution.
On motion of Senator GROOMS, the Resolution was carried over.
H. 3438 (Word version) -- Reps. Pope, B. Newton and Ligon: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROVES ORDINANCE NUMBER 3421 ADOPTED ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2021, BY THE YORK COUNTY COUNCIL TO EXPAND THE CATAWBA INDIAN RESERVATION, AS REQUESTED BY THE CATAWBA INDIAN NATION.
The Senate proceeded to the consideration of the Resolution.
Senator JOHNSON explained the Resolution.
The question being second reading of the Resolution.
The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:
Adams Alexander Allen Bennett Blackmon Cash Chaplin Climer Corbin Cromer Davis Devine Elliott Fernandez Gambrell Garrett Goldfinch Graham Grooms Hembree Jackson Johnson Kennedy Kimbrell Leber Martin Massey Matthews Nutt Ott Peeler Rankin Reichenbach Rice Sabb Stubbs Sutton Tedder Turner Verdin Walker Williams Young Zell
The Resolution was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading.
On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed to stand adjourned.
On motion of Senator BENNETT, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Jerad "Devin" Rose of Summerville, S.C. Devin was a graduate of Shakamak High School and worked on the State Highway Survey Crew with the South Carolina Department of Transportation. He enjoyed golf, magic and playing Pokémon. Jerad was a loving son and brother who will be dearly missed.
On motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Ms. Michayla Leigh McCauley of Myrtle Beach, S.C. Michayla was a graduate of Myrtle Beach High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from the College of Charleston. She loved to dance, cheer, travel and experience nature. Michayla had an infectious spirit and a gift of making everyone around her feel special. Michayla was a loving daughter and devoted sister who will be dearly missed.
At 3:34 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M.
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