Senate Journal for 3/5/2025 - South Carolina Legislature Online

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

NO. 31

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

_________

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2025
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
(Statewide Session)

~~Indicates Matter Stricken~~
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:45 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

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

Psalm 51:1-2
The Psalmist tells us: "Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin." My friends, let us pray: O most loving Lord, we humbly confess here on this Ash Wednesday how sinful and weak we know that we are. Time and time again we find ourselves falling into life's many traps, doing those things we know not to do, but that we end up doing anyway, often over and over. How great indeed are all of the challenges that confront us as we strive to be the women and men You desire us to become. And so today especially we turn to You and ask for Your forgiveness, dear Lord. Embrace us afresh in Your loving arms and lead us forward that we all might truly be the women and men You expect us to be. And may this Senate itself as well as this State we love be better as a result. Hear our humble prayer, dear Lord. Amen.

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

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed that, at the conclusion of the Joint Assembly, the Senate would reconvene one hour after the conclusion of the Joint Assembly.

Committee to Escort

The PRESIDENT appointed Senators CROMER, BENNETT, GOLDFINCH, SUTTON, ZELL and MASSEY and Representatives B. L. Cox, B. J. Cox, Davis, Gilliam and Hosey to escort the Honorable James A. Lacoursiere, National Commander of the American Legion, and members of his party to the House of Representatives for the Joint Assembly.

Committee to Escort

The PRESIDENT appointed Senators RANKIN, MASSEY, DEVINE, ELLIOTT, ALLEN and GARRETT and Representatives W. Newton, Bannister, Martin, McCabe, Garvin and Spann-Wilder to escort the Honorable John W. Kittredge, Chief Justice for the South Carolina Supreme Court, and members of his party to the House of Representatives for the Joint Assembly.

RECESS

At 11:55 A.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate receded from business for the purpose of attending the Joint Assembly.

Address by the National Commander of the American Legion

The PRESIDENT of the Senate announced that it had convened under the terms of a Concurrent Resolution adopted by both Houses, S. 332.

S. 332 (Word version)--Senators Alexander and Young: TO WELCOME THE NATIONAL COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION, THE HONORABLE JAMES A. LACOURSIERE, AND TO INVITE HIM TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION IN THE CHAMBER OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AT 12:00 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2025; AND TO WELCOME THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT, THE HONORABLE JOHN W. KITTREDGE, AND TO INVITE HIM TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FOLLOWING THE ADDRESS OF THE HONORABLE JAMES A. LACOURSIERE.

The Honorable James A. Lacoursiere and members of his party were escorted to the rostrum by Senators CROMER, BENNETT, GOLDFINCH, SUTTON, ZELL and MASSEY and Representatives B. L. Cox, B. J. Cox, Davis, Gilliam and Hosey.

The PRESIDENT of the Senate introduced the Honorable James A. Lacoursiere, National Commander of the American Legion.

Commander Lacoursiere addressed the Joint Assembly.

Ladies, Gentlemen, distinguished members of this great Body. It's truly an honor to speak to you today in this beautiful historic capitol. Before I begin, please allow me a moment to introduce members of The American Legion Family who are with me today.

We have with us the Commander of the South Carolina American Legion, Bruce Donegan of Loris. National Executive Committeeman and Acting Adjutant for the Department of South Carolina, Jim Hawk of Irmo. Cecil Phillips, Alternate NEC from Rock Hill. The American Legion Auxiliary Department of South Carolina President Allyson Boone of Columbia S.C. and the Sons of The American Legion South Carolina Detachment Commander Ross Polson of Rock Hill.

Ladies and gentlemen, on January 20th my organization had the honor of hosting the Salute to Heroes Ball in Washington as part of our nation's Inaugural celebration. These special events have been held by The American Legion for every presidential inauguration since 1953.

During these Salutes, we celebrate the heroes who make such occasions possible -- our Nation's Medal of Honor recipients.

This year we were fortunate to have twenty-four living Medal of Honor recipients as our special guests. As most of you are probably aware, the Medal of Honor is our Nation's highest military award. Just over three thousand five hundred heroes have been awarded the Medal since President Lincoln authorized its creation in 1861. Only sixty-one are still living.

Those who have earned the award are not "winners." They didn't receive their medals by placing first in a contest or besting opponents in a competition. Medal of Honor recipients are recognized for unwavering devotion, extraordinary valor in combat and conspicuous gallantry.

Among the special guests at our Salute to Heroes ball this year was a son of South Carolina, U.S. Army Sergeant Major Thomas Payne.

He didn't write the revolutionary pamphlet "Common Sense," like the other Thomas Paine. And while his name is spelled P-A-Y-N-E, he certainly inflicted pain on the enemy. If you don't know the story of this Delta Force legend, allow me to go over a few highlights: Born in 1984, he grew up in Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina. The son of a police officer, he understood service at an early age and enlisted after graduating from Lugoff-Elgin High School in 2002. He says his decision to be an Army Ranger was made when he saw video of the Towers falling on 9/11.

During his distinguished career, Sergeant Major Payne has been deployed seventeen times including tours in Iraq, Afghanistan and Africa. But it was his actions on October 22, 2015, that are permanently etched among the bravest in military history. As a sergeant-first class at the time, Thomas Payne led an assault team that was clearing buildings in Iraq's Kirkuk Province. Intelligence revealed that these buildings were being used by ISIS to hold hostages.

Under fire from the beginning, Payne and his men fought their way to the first building, freeing thirty-eight hostages in the process. After hearing a call for help, he entered a second building. As the burning building began to crumble, he engaged enemy fighters before trading his rifle for bolt-cutters so he could rescue more hostages. Despite losing teammates, Sergeant First Class Payne made numerous trips in and out of the building until thirty-eight more hostages were freed.

As a result of the actions of Payne and his team, seventy-five hostages were rescued from the ISIS compound. In 2020, he received the Medal of Honor from President Trump for his actions. Fittingly, it was presented on September 11th, the 19th anniversary of the attacks which inspired him to join.

With a brother in the Army and another in the Air Force, service runs deep in the veins of the Payne family. This is not surprising given the culture of the patriotic Palmetto state. Here are just a few examples of the selfless service that we find in communities throughout South Carolina: American Legion Family members at Dalzell-Shaw Post 175, have been collecting and transporting relief supplies to Hurricane Helene victims in Fines Creek, North Carolina. They do this not to help themselves but to assist their fellow Americans in another state.

We have seen an active "Buddy Check program" conducted by South Carolina's Hezzie Griffis Post 30 in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane. They understand that even when there is no natural disaster, veterans are fifty percent more likely to commit suicide than those who never served in the military.

Buddy Checks are our way of pro-actively engaging with veterans, not just to prevent suicide but to foster camaraderie and wellness.

I would also like to recognize American Legion Larry Jeffers Post 195 in Lugoff. Last May, Post 195 was named the Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce 2024 Nonprofit of the Year. This is a particular inspiration since the post was on the verge of foreclosure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also last year, American Legion Post 124 in Walhalla rededicated the village of Newry's World War II Memorial. It was in conjunction with the 130th anniversary of Newry's founding. These are just a few of the activities and accomplishments of local American Legion posts spread throughout this great region.

While I am here, I'd also like to extend my congratulations to Andrew Behrmann of Tega City. Andrew is a recent delegate of South Carolina American Legion Boys State and one of our 2024 Samsung Scholars. Andrew certainly earned his $10,000 scholarship for his achievements as a student athlete, Eagle Scout, conservationist and youth group leader.

The scholarship, which is administered by The American Legion, is funded through the earnings derived from a five-million-dollar endowment from Samsung. The electronics corporation made the donation in 1996 to show appreciation for the sacrifices that our Korean War veterans made during its struggle against communist forces that started seventy-five years ago. There are only ten Samsung Scholars selected nationally each year, so Andrew truly represents the best of his class.

The hospitality that I have experienced here in South Carolina the last couple of days has been amazing. I can see why nearly 400,000 veterans call South Carolina home.

I visited the Camden battlefield and received briefings from military officials at Shaw Air Force Base and Fort Jackson.

Quality of life issues for our Armed Service is essential in today's All Volunteer Force. We are pleased to see that Joint Base Charleston has an Education Fair scheduled for March 18th, an event that is intended to help military families achieve their next level of success.

This State has always been what we in the Legion call "Veteran-Friendly." And you're getting even friendlier! Some of the many Bills being considered by this legislature deal with issues such as discounted fees at state parks for veterans and property tax relief for surviving spouses.

Now, you may notice that my cap says Connecticut. As national commander of The American Legion, my focus is mostly on federal policies. In fact, last week I testified about veterans and military issues before Congress. But most veterans know the Legion as a community grassroots organization. It is what you do here in your state that provides the biggest impact.

It would be presumptuous of me to tell you which Bills to sponsor or which legislation to draft. You know your communities much better than I do. I just want you to be aware how much we appreciate all that you do for veterans, our military and their families.

Now, if you would allow me for one moment to call to this platform two members of this distinguished Body who have proven that they are not only great lawmakers, but they are advocates for those who have served. They have been designated by The American Legion Department of South Carolina as the Outstanding Members of the Legislature for 2025. They are true friends of veterans and The American Legion.

Senator SHANE MASSEY, and Representative and Bobby Cox would you please join me?

Congratulations Senator SHANE MASSEY and Representative Bobby Cox. We appreciate all that you do on behalf of veterans.
Thank you so much, South Carolina Legislature. God Bless you and God Bless America.

Immediately following the Joint Assembly called for the address by James A. Lacoursiere, National Commander of the American Legion, the PRESIDENT announced that the Joint Assembly would proceed to the address by the Honorable John W. Kittredge, Chief Justice for the South Carolina Supreme Court.

Address by the Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court

The Honorable John W. Kittredge, Chief Justice for the South Carolina Supreme Court and members of his party were escorted to the rostrum by Senators RANKIN, MASSEY, DEVINE, ELLIOTT, ALLEN and GARRETT and Representatives W. Newton, Bannister, Martin, McCabe, Garvin and Spann-Wilder.
The PRESIDENT of the Senate introduced the Honorable John W. Kittredge, Chief Justice for the South Carolina Supreme Court.
Chief Justice John W. Kittredge addressed the Joint Assembly.
PRESIDENT ALEXANDER, Speaker Smith, Chairman PEELER, Speaker Pro Tempore Pope, and the majority and minority leaders of the Senate and House. In the House, Representatives Hiott and Rutherford. In the Senate, Senators MASSEY and HUTTO. And Senator HUTTO, please know we are thinking of you and looking forward to your return. To all members of the General Assembly, thank you for extending me the privilege of addressing this esteemed joint assembly. Please know I am grateful for this invitation. After serving for thirty-three years as a state judge at every level, I assumed the position of Chief Justice fairly recently, back in August. I stand before you as a steward of the Chief Justice position, mindful of the solemn and immense trust imposed in me. I pledge to you my commitment to do my best to be worthy of this position and to merit the confidence you have shown in me. I began this journey mindful and appreciative of the contributions of my predecessors, Chief Justices Toal, Pleicones and Beatty. I applaud them for their service. I will do my best to build on the solid foundation they have laid.
I recognize and applaud my exceptional colleagues on the Supreme Court, Justices Few, James, Hill and Verdin. Chief Judge Williams of the court of appeals is here, along with our outstanding appellate court judges, and welcome to the newest member of the court of appeals, Judge Kristi Curtis.
I recognize and extend my gratitude to Dan Shearouse, the Supreme Court's long serving clerk of court who came out of retirement to serve as the interim State Court Administrator. Similarly, I recognize Karama Herrington, who later this month will become our new State Court Administrator. Mr. Shearouse's service has been extraordinary, and I am confident Ms. Herrington is well prepared to assume this important role. Thank you, Dan, and welcome, Karama.
In our brief time together, there are so many important topics we could discuss. From judicial independence, to how does the Judicial Branch manage huge technology challenges, to how do we wisely assign our limited judicial resources to terms of court across our State, and the list goes on and on. Yet my time is limited, so I have chosen three topics to address briefly.
First, I want to give you and the citizens of South Carolina a glimpse into the role and volume of work in our trial courts and the number of cases that our court system handles. Second, because I note the Governor and the Legislature have a focus on Magistrate reform, I want to commend you for those efforts and offer just a quick observation about one aspect concerning the need for uniformity in our magistrate court system. And lastly and perhaps most importantly, I want to share how all people and all branches of government face a common challenge. I will do so by describing the most difficult journey a man or woman has ever undertaken.
Now to our courts in South Carolina. Apart from the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals, we have fifty-three circuit court judges, sixty-three family court judges, roughly twenty-three Masters-in-Equity, forty-six probate court judges, about three hundred magistrates, and over four hundred municipal court judges. That's a lot of judges. Have you ever thought about the true role and impact of the law on our fellow citizens? Yes, we intuitively understand that law -- particularly the rule of law -- serves as the bedrock foundation in our constitutional republic, in our civil society. What I want to share now, however, is more practical. What is the role and involvement of courts to the citizens we serve? We know over the past twenty-five years, the population in South Carolina has dramatically increased. Our State had a population of about four million in the year 2000. Today, a quarter of a century later, according to the most recent estimates from the Census Bureau, we are pushing five and a half million. How does that exploding growth affect the pressures on our justice system?
We currently do not have complete data about the number of cases and hearings conducted in the courtrooms across our State. We are working on gathering complete data so we can know the full story. Though our information is currently incomplete, what we do know is revealing in terms of the volume of work being done in our courts.
The chart on the screen is a new chart. It is not complete. It is a work in progress. Gregory Brooks in our IT department is creating this new report. If we are successful, the chart will eventually include information reflecting all the cases and hearings in the trial courts throughout the state. Gregory is off to an excellent start, and I thank him. When it is complete, the Judicial Branch, you, and the public will be able to access this site and obtain the most current data about the workloads in our courts. In this one interactive document that is being developed, we will have one go-to resource to see where we are on case filings and case dispositions. This is in line with the Judicial Branch's commitment to you and all of our fellow citizens to provide greater transparency and accountability. While we currently only have partial information, here's what we do know. Over the past few years, 5.8 million matters have been filed in the trial courts of SC. Thus, what we do know begins to give us a sense of the volume of work in our courts. Think for a moment -- not about the number of cases, but about the number of hearings that take place. A case in any court can result in many hearings. We will make this interactive resource available when it is complete. When the report goes live, we will keep updating the data as we establish a system for trial courts, clerks of court, and other stakeholders to provide us with complete information. We want to know how many cases are filed, and we want to know how many hearings take place in our courts. To give you a glimpse of what we are hoping to share with you and our fellow citizens, you will be able to look at a snapshot of a year by clicking on a year. You will access and see the information for the year you have selected. In 2024, for example, there were conservatively 1.5 million case filings. The number of court hearings, of course, would be much more than that. We will be able to drill down further into circuits and counties. We need to know the workloads in our courts. We are doing our best to gather all the information, so that we can truly know the volume and pressures in the trial courts of our state. With the relevant information, we can better and more wisely operate and manage the justice system for all South Carolinians. As I move to my next topic, I leave you with this: I and my colleagues on the Supreme Court could not be prouder of the work ethic of our trial court judges. In the trial courts across South Carolina, as you have seen, far more than a million matters are handled every year. I am going to return to this thought when I share my concluding remarks.
Permit me to offer a quick observation about our magistrate court system. If you look to the justices and judges elected here in the legislature -- Family and Circuit Court, Court of Appeals and Supreme Court -- the legislature elects right at one hundred thirty judgeships. Double that figure and you are still short of the approximate 300 magistrates throughout our state. The majority of magistrates perform well in their judicial service. A citizen's view of our justice system is frequently formed through the citizen's experience in magistrate's court. It serves as the people's court. The Governor and the legislature have expressed a desire to improve the structure of the magistrate court system, including magistrates court standards, uniformity and professionalism. The Governor, to his great credit, is focused on enhanced magistrate standards and professionalism. In the Legislative Branch, I note several Bills filed, directed to the issue of magistrates. For example, you are considering increasing magistrate court jurisdiction. Bills have been filed addressing the possible need for the vetting of magistrates in conjunction with a merit selection process for magistrates. You and the Governor are to be commended. The third branch of government -- the Judicial Branch -- supports your efforts, and it is my hope you will allow the Judicial Branch a seat at the table. I necessarily work closely with our magistrate court system. And through my regular interaction with the magistrate courts, I know of some of the strengths and weaknesses in the system. I choose only one issue to mention.
One area where the issue of uniformity needs to be addressed is magistrates pay for full time magistrates. There are full time and part time magistrates. I only mention full time magistrates here. The statutory method of pay is complicated and cumbersome. We look to the counties to pay the county magistrates, and we do so largely through a formula based on a county's population. Larger counties have more magistrates; smaller counties have fewer magistrates. Again, it is a population- based formula and approach. The pay disparity among full time magistrates is staggering. The highest paid magistrate earns just above $130,000, yet there are many full-time magistrates earning barely $50,000, one as low as $46,000. Think about that disparity. The higher salaries are found in the larger counties; the lowest salaries are found in our smaller counties. Yet when the caseloads of individual magistrates are examined, we learn that the lowest paid magistrates in the smaller counties can have a caseload equal to and sometimes greater than the magistrates serving in the larger counties. And we wonder why it is sometimes quite difficult to find qualified individuals willing to serve, especially in the less populated, rural areas. If there is a desire to move forward legislatively with magistrate reform with enhanced professionalism standards, the Judicial Branch would welcome the opportunity to have a voice in that effort.
I now move to my final point. I have conveyed to you the volume of work done by those who serve in our justice system. I do not, however, want to leave you with the impression that because of the overwhelming caseload pressures, that judges are merely assembly line workers, simply moving cases along without caring for the people who appear in our courts. Let me set this up by sharing something I heard years ago that resonated and has remained with me. Perhaps you are familiar with it, and especially the profound underlying message it carries. It begins with the following question: what is the most difficult -- the most important journey a man or woman has ever embarked on? It was not Hannibal's crossing of the Alps; nor was it the Lewis and Clark expedition; nor Lindberg's transatlantic flight; nor the Apollo moon mission; nor any other physical journey ever undertaken. The most difficult and important journey ever undertaken in the history of mankind is the twelve inches from the mind to the heart. The merging of the mind and the heart is what the law is all about. Yes, we must have accountability, but justice--to be justice -- must be tempered with the heart, with understanding and mercy. Embedded in the DNA of the human spirit is a yearning for second chances. The law recognizes the role of redemption in the civil society. The merging of the mind with the heart is the essence of what the prophet Micah was capturing in the admonition to do justice and love mercy. I submit to you that when you are debating policy questions, and crafting legislation, you, too, are searching for the elusive intersection of accountability and compassion, the merging of the mind and heart.
In the court system, we at times confront horrific violent crime. In terms of dealing with violent crime, what is the relative relationship between the mind and the heart? Will judges impose a sentence for many years in prison for violent and repeat offenders? Absolutely and we do not apologize. In such a situation, accountability predominates and properly so. The laws you pass often mandate certain penalties and judges must honor those legislative directives. But there are many defendants - people -- who come into the criminal justice system who are not violent offenders. In fact, the majority of people in the system fall into this latter category. It is here where a proper and wise understanding brings mercy and compassion into the equation.
As I close, I want to share just one example where the law has successfully navigated the difficult journey and merged the mind and the heart. It is with treatment courts, which are designed for and limited to nonviolent offenders. There are many different kinds of successful treatment courts -- mental health courts; veterans courts; in family court, we have safe babies court, and there are others. Every county in South Carolina has at least one of these different kinds of treatment courts. Because of time constraints, I will mention only one -- drug courts. Drug courts reflect both accountability and grace. A drug court program is intensive. The court meets with the participants regularly, at least once weekly, professionals provide treatment and drug testing, the participant must have and keep a job, or perform community service, and the program will last typically for a year, sometimes longer.
There is not a person here or within the sound of my voice who has not been impacted by addiction, perhaps through a family member or close friend. All understand the debilitating scourge of addiction. What is also beyond dispute is the fact that drug courts work. I know you are familiar with recidivism rates for those who go through the normal criminal court process. The rate of repeat offenders is alarmingly high for those who are simply handled through our criminal justice system. Yet the recidivism rate for those who make it through a drug court program pales in comparison. The success rate is high. Drug courts work. Peoples' lives are saved. People are reunited with their communities; people are reunited with their families. Allow me to reiterate: judges impose harsh yet necessary prison sentences for violent offenders; we hold offenders accountable, and we strive to be sensitive to the plight of crime victims. But there is a significant portion of those who enter the court system who are not violent.
I once had a defendant plead guilty to possession of cocaine. In the standard questioning, I asked the defendant, "sir, did you possess cocaine?" The defendant responded, "No sir, I didn't possess cocaine; it possessed me." I now share a very short video clip from the national group known as All Rise, a tremendous group that provides support services for drug courts nationwide. Peoples' lives are being saved in drug court. The lives of our fellow citizens in South Carolina are being saved in the drug court program.
I am pleased to report that drug courts and treatment courts in general are being increased, as new ones are being established across our state. Think of all those involved in our drug courts. Our circuit solicitors are leaders in this effort, and I thank and commend them. They are not merely prosecutors, but in those cases where a second chance is warranted, it is the solicitors who have stepped up to support treatment courts. Like the solicitors, the defense bar, especially the circuit public defenders, also deserve credit. Think of the clerks of court and so many others in our justice system whose support is necessary to operate drug courts. And yes, I want to thank the judges. Almost all judges do this extra service for no pay. Did that register? The judges volunteer without compensation, because they believe in helping people. They believe in second chances. Who are these judges? They are magistrates, municipal judges, probate court judges, family court judges, and circuit court judges.
There is one judge whose story brings it home. He is a retired judge who has presided over drug court for many years. This judge had an adult son who struggled with addiction. Late last year, the judge's son died. Yet this judge, even after the tragic loss of his son, still in his grief, continues to preside in drug court, never giving up the mission to save someone's life. That's what compassion--true justice--looks like. That my friends are the elusive intersection of the mind and the heart.
Do South Carolina judges have a strong work ethic and understand the importance of addressing backlogs and moving cases? Absolutely, as established by the far more than one million matters that are handled each year in our state court system. But judges are so much more than assembly line workers dealing with an overwhelming volume of cases. I leave you with this: the judges across South Carolina are so much more. These judges, including the ones you vet and you elect, are dedicated public servants who care deeply about serving with compassion and understanding for all who appear before them in our court system. I am proud to serve alongside these public servants in our justice system, and as long as I am privileged to serve as the Chief Justice, we will never waver from the pursuit of justice -- the journey of the mind to the heart.
God bless you and God bless the State of South Carolina.

The purposes of the Joint Assembly having been accomplished, the PRESIDENT declared it adjourned, whereupon the Senate returned to its Chamber and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

At 11:55 A.M., by prior motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate receded until 2:00 P.M.

AFTERNOON SESSION

The Senate reassembled at 2:15 P.M. and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

Call of the Senate

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

Adams                     Alexander                 Allen
Bennett                   Blackmon                  Cash
Chaplin                   Climer                    Corbin
Cromer                    Davis                     Devine
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

A quorum being present, the Senate resumed.

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR

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

Local Appointments

Initial Appointment, Abbeville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Phillip W. Sears, Jr., 64 Pinehurst Street, Abbeville, SC 29620 VICE Robert E. Devore

Initial Appointment, Florence County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
John E. Follin III, 5544 North Old Georgetown Rd., Coward, SC 29530-5069 VICE The Honorable Belinda B. Timmons

Initial Appointment, Florence County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Joe Timothy Suggs, 1713 Oakdale Terrace Blvd., Florence, SC 29501-8598 VICE Dominic Owens
Reappointment, Pickens County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Michael Baker, 537 Brighton Circle, Easley, SC 29642

Reappointment, Pickens County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2022, and to expire April 30, 2026
Benjamin A. Dow, 153 Gilliland Road, Pickens, SC 29671

Initial Appointment, Richland County Master-in-Equity, with the term to commence April 30, 2021, and to expire April 30, 2027
Stephanie Lawrence, 101 Branchview Drive, Columbia, SC 29229 VICE The Honorable Joseph M. Strickland

Doctor of the Day

Senator TURNER introduced Dr. Chris Fyock of Greenville, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

Leave of Absence

On motion of Senator CROMER, at 2:17 P.M., Senator CAMPSEN was granted a leave of absence for today.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator MATTHEWS rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 113 (Word version) Sen. Rice
S. 277 (Word version) Sen. Kimbrell
S. 345 (Word version) Sen. Goldfinch
S. 393 (Word version) Sen. Graham
S. 418 (Word version) Sen. Jackson

RECALLED

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

Senator RANKIN 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.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 419 (Word version) -- Senator Johnson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE FORT MILL HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SWIMMING TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING THE 5A DIVISION II STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.
sr-0083km-vc25.docx

The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 420 (Word version) -- Senator Young: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 6-5-10, RELATING TO AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS SO AS TO ALLOW A QUALIFIED RETIREE-POST EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT TRUST MAINTAINED FOR THE BENEFIT OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISION RETIREES TO INVEST IN CERTAIN CORPORATE DEBT ISSUED BY UNITED STATES CORPORATIONS.
sr-0223km25.docx

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

S. 421 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 59-63-100, RELATING TO PARTICIPATION IN INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES OF PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT BY HOME SCHOOL, CHARTER SCHOOL, AND GOVERNOR'S SCHOOL STUDENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE PARTICIPATION IN COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, AND CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION, AND TO PROVIDE EQUAL TREATMENT FOR SUCH STUDENTS AND STUDENTS ENROLLED IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT, AND TO DEFINE "CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION," "COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES," AND "EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES," AMONG OTHER THINGS.
sr-0044cem25.docx

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

S. 422 (Word version) -- Senators Ott, Gambrell and Sutton: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 40-56-90 SO AS TO PROVIDE REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF PYROTECHNICS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-1, RELATING TO POLICIES AND PURPOSES CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF PYROTECHNICS, SO AS TO RESTATE PUBLIC SAFETY GOALS OF POLICIES FOR THE MANUFACTURE, STORAGE, PURCHASE, SUPPLY, AND SALE OF PYROTECHNICS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-10, RELATING TO THE STATE BOARD OF PYROTECHNIC SAFETY, SO AS TO REVISE BOARD COMPOSITION AND MEETING REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-20, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF PYROTECHNICS AND FIREWORKS, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-35, RELATING TO LICENSES REQUIRED FOR THE MANUFACTURE, SALE, OR STORAGE OF FIREWORKS, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS TO INCLUDE LICENSES AND PERMITS REQUIRED FOR THE MANUFACTURING, SELLING, DEALING, DISTRIBUTING, OR STORAGE OF PYROTECHNICS AND FIREWORKS, AND TO REVISE RELATED LICENSING AND PERMITTING REQUIREMENTS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-70, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO REVISE THE DUTIES TO INCLUDE CERTAIN DISCIPLINARY AUTHORITY, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-80, RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS OF COMPLAINTS OF VIOLATIONS BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PRESENTATION OF INVESTIGATION RESULTS AND SUBSEQUENT HEARINGS, TO PROVIDE CERTAIN RELATED POWERS NECESSARY FOR THE INTEREST OF PUBLIC SAFETY; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-115, RELATING TO JURISDICTION OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD HAS JURISDICTION OVER ACTIONS OF ENTITIES OR INDIVIDUALS, IN ADDITION TO LICENSEES AND FORMER LICENSEES, FOUND TO VIOLATE THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 56, TITLE 40; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-120, RELATING TO DISCIPLINARY GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES CONCERNING THE BOARD, SO AS TO EXPAND THE GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE AVAILABILITY OF PRIVATE REPRIMANDS, AND TO PROVIDE CERTAIN FINAL ORDERS WITH FINDINGS OF VIOLATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO PUBLIC DISCLOSURE UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-130, RELATING TO LICENSE DENIAL BY THE BOARD BASED ON THE ACTIONS THAT CONSTITUTE GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE BOARD MAY REFUSE TO ISSUE LICENSES OR PERMITS IN SUCH SITUATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-140, RELATING TO LICENSE DENIAL BY THE BOARD BASED ON FINDINGS OF A PRIOR CRIMINAL RECORD, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE DENIALS OF PERMITS UPON SUCH A FINDING; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-150, RELATING TO VOLUNTARY SURRENDER OF LICENSES ISSUED BY THE BOARD, SO AS TO INCLUDE THE VOLUNTARY SURRENDER OF PERMITS ISSUED BY THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-200, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF PROVISIONS REGULATING PYROTECHNICS BY LICENSEES OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO INCLUDE HOLDERS OF PERMITS ISSUED BY THE BOARD; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-220, RELATING TO FACILITIES THAT MUST COMPLY WITH CERTAIN REGULATIONS OF THE BOARD, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE PROVISIONS DO NOT WAIVE CERTAIN OTHER REQUIREMENTS, TO INCLUDE FIREWORKS DISTRIBUTION FACILITIES, AND TO PROVIDE AUTHORIZED AGENTS OF THE BOARD MAY CONDUCT INSPECTIONS OF THESE FACILITIES, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-230, RELATING TO INSURANCE REQUIRED FOR RETAIL FIREWORKS SALES LICENSES, SO AS TO REVISE REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCH INSURANCE COVERAGE; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-240, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF HAVING A WHOLESALE LICENSE ISSUED BY THE BOARD TO STORE DISPLAY FIREWORKS, SO AS TO ADD PERMITTING REQUIREMENTS FOR STORING ARTICLES PYROTECHNIC, TO PROVIDE HOLDERS OF PYROTECHNIC OPERATOR LICENSES ISSUED BY THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL MAY OBTAIN A DISPLAY MAGAZINE PERMIT FROM THE BOARD FOR THE STORAGE OF DISPLAY FIREWORKS AT A LOCATION OTHER THAN THE DISPLAY SITE WITHOUT OBTAINING A WHOLESALE LICENSE FROM THE BOARD, TO PROVIDE ONLY LICENSED WHOLESALERS MAY DISTRIBUTE FIREWORKS FOR DISPLAYS, AND TO REVISE STORAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR DISPLAY FIREWORKS, AMONG OTHER THINGS; BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-250, RELATING TO ORDERS OF THE BOARD TO REMOVE OR CORRECT HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS, SO AS TO IMPOSE A THIRTY-DAY LIMIT FOR COMPLIANCE, TO ADD CERTAIN PENALTIES, AND TO REMOVE REMAINING PENALTIES AND PROCESSES FOR VIOLATIONS TO CONFORM TO THE ADDITION OF OTHER PENALTIES AND PROCESSES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 40-56-260, RELATING TO REPORTS OF FIRES OR EXPLOSIONS TO THE BOARD BY REGULATED PARTIES, SO AS TO REMOVE EXISTING PROVISIONS AND INSTEAD PROVIDE THAT LICENSEES AND PERMITTEES MUST REPORT IN WRITING ANY UNAUTHORIZED INCIDENT OF EXPLOSION OR FIRE INVOLVING FIREWORKS TO THE BOARD WITHIN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS OF THE OCCURRENCE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 423 (Word version) -- Senators Ott and Walker: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-18-130 SO AS TO PROVIDE STUDENTS FOUND TO BE ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS ARE ENTITLED TO TAKE CERTAIN ASSESSMENTS IN THEIR NATIVE LANGUAGE AND MAY NOT BE REQUIRED TO TAKE ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS ASSESSMENTS OTHERWISE REQUIRED UNDER THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 1-1-698, RELATING TO EXCEPTIONS TO THE PROHIBITION AGAINST USE OF LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH, SO AS TO MAKE A CONFORMING CHANGE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 424 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-1180 SO AS TO ALLOW AN INCOME TAX DEDUCTION FOR QUALIFIED CHARITY CARE PROVIDED BY A PHYSICIAN.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 425 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 59-63-795 SO AS TO PROVIDE EACH PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNUALLY SHALL IDENTIFY THE NUMBER OF ITS STUDENTS WHO LIVE IN POVERTY AND INCREASE ACCESS TO FREE SCHOOL BREAKFASTS AND LUNCHES FOR THESE STUDENTS, TO PROVIDE CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY, TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS, SCHOOLS, AND SCHOOL BOARDS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 426 (Word version) -- Senators Kennedy, Reichenbach, Kimbrell, Johnson, Cromer, Peeler, Garrett, Davis, Cash, Goldfinch, Hembree, Leber, Climer, Corbin, Massey, Gambrell, Bennett, Verdin, Grooms, Turner, Tedder, Adams, Fernandez, Rice, Elliott, Williams and Sabb: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 17-3-510, RELATING TO THE CIRCUIT PUBLIC DEFENDER SELECTION PANEL, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT CIRCUIT PUBLIC DEFENDERS WITH THE ADVICE AND CONSENT OF THE SENATE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 427 (Word version) -- Senator Adams: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING ARTICLE 11 OF CHAPTER 3, TITLE 47, RELATING TO TAUNTING, TORMENTING, INJURING, OR KILLING POLICE DOGS OR HORSES, SO AS TO EXPAND THE CONDUCT THAT RESULTS IN A VIOLATION, INCREASE THE PENALTIES, REQUIRE RESTITUTION TO THE LAW ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT OR AGENCY, AND MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

H. 3008 (Word version) -- Reps. Forrest, G. M. Smith, W. Newton, Wooten, Pope, Pedalino, Taylor, Hixon, Davis, M. M. Smith, Teeple, Robbins, Mitchell, Yow, Ligon, J. L. Johnson and Willis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO APPLY FOR A CONVENTION UNDER ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION IN ORDER TO PROPOSE A CONGRESSIONAL TERM LIMITS AMENDMENT.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEE

Senator GOLDFINCH from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable with amendment report on:

S. 337 (Word version) -- Senator Reichenbach: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 50-13-640, RELATING TO THE POSSESSION OF BLUE CATFISH, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A DAILY LIMIT OF SEVENTY-FIVE BLUE CATFISH IN STATE WATERWAYS OTHER THAN IN LAKE MARION, LAKE MOULTRIE, AND THE UPPER REACH OF THE SANTEE RIVER.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator GOLDFINCH from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable report on:

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

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Appointments Reported

Senator CAMPSEN from the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry submitted a favorable report on:

Statewide Appointments

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

Received as information.

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

Received as information.

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

Received as information.

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

Received as information.

Reappointment, Department of Natural Resources Board, with the term to commence July 1, 2022, and to expire July 1, 2026
2nd Congressional District:
Michael E. Hutchins, 1 Panorama Drive, Lexington, SC 29072

Received as information.

Message from the House

Columbia, S.C., March 4, 2025

Mr. President and Senators:

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

MASTER-IN-EQUITY

Local Appointment, Richland County Master-in-Equity, with term to commence April 30, 2021, and to expire April 30, 2027:

Stephanie N. Lawrence, 101 Branchview Drive, Columbia, SC 29229 VICE The Honorable Joseph M. Strickland
Very respectfully,
Speaker of the House

Received as information.

HOUSE CONCURRENCE

S. 292 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander, Peeler, Martin, Massey and Rankin: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT, PURSUANT TO SECTION 9, ARTICLE III OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE, 1895, WHEN THE RESPECTIVE HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURN ON THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025, NOT LATER THAN 5:00 P.M., EACH HOUSE SHALL STAND IN RECESS SUBJECT TO THE CALL OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE FOR THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AT TIMES THEY CONSIDER APPROPRIATE FOR THEIR RESPECTIVE BODIES TO MEET FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF CERTAIN SPECIFIED MATTERS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN THE RESPECTIVE HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURN NOT LATER THAN MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026, THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL STAND ADJOURNED SINE DIE.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

SECOND READING BILL

H. 3952 (Word version) -- Reps. Mitchell, Luck, Williams and Yow: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 571 OF 1965, RELATING TO THE DARLINGTON COUNTY MILLAGE LEVY FOR THE FLORENCE-DARLINGTON TECHNICAL COLLEGE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE BUDGET TO BE APPROVED BY THE DARLINGTON COUNTY COUNCIL INSTEAD OF THE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION.

On motion of Senator CHAPLIN.

OBJECTION

H. 4003 (Word version) -- Reps. Vaughan, Willis, Burns, B.J. Cox and Bannister: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 1543 OF 1968, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF THE GREATER GREENVILLE SANITATION DISTRICT TO CONTRACT TO PROVIDE SANITATION SERVICES TO THIRD PARTIES NOT WITHIN THE DISTRICT, SO AS TO ELIMINATE THIS AUTHORITY, TO ELIMINATE THE AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSION TO CHARGE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE WITHIN THE DISTRICT, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION ONLY MAY CHARGE A SANITATION FEE, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION SHALL RETIRE ALL GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, TO PROVIDE THE COMMISSION ONLY MAY ISSUE REVENUE BONDS, TO EXEMPT EXISTING CONTRACTS, AND TO PROVIDE EXISTING CONTRACTS MAY NOT BE RENEWED OR EXTENDED.

Senator MARTIN objected to consideration of the Bill.

READ THE THIRD TIME
SENT TO THE HOUSE

The following Bills were read the third time and ordered sent to the House:

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.

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.

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.

HOUSE BILL RETURNED

The following Bill was read the third time and ordered returned to the House with amendments.

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.

RECOMMITTED

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

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

RECOMMITTED

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

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

RECOMMITTED

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

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

RECOMMITTED

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

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

RECOMMITTED

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

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

RECOMMITTED

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

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

RECOMMITTED

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

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Resolution was recommitted to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

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.

CARRIED OVER

S. 176 (Word version) -- Senator Climer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 40-2-20, CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS AND PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS. (ABBREVIATED TITLE)

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

OBJECTION

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

Senator ALLEN objected to consideration of the Bill.

POINT OF ORDER

S. 210 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES AND TO ADD TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-20, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS OF CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES, SO AS TO AMEND MEETING REQUIREMENTS AND OUTLINE COMPONENTS OF A PLAN OF OPERATION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-40, RELATING TO CAPITALIZATION REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO GIVE DISCRETION TO THE DIRECTOR; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-60, RELATING TO INCORPORATION OPTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO INCLUDE FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-70, RELATING TO REPORTS, SO AS TO CHANGE A DEADLINE AND INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-75, RELATING TO DISCOUNTING OF LOSS AND LOSS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSE RESERVES, SO AS TO ALLOW A SPONSORED CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY TO FILE ONE ACTUARIAL OPINION; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-80, RELATING TO INSPECTIONS AND EXAMINATIONS, SO AS TO MAKE THE EXAMINATION OF SOME CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES OPTIONAL AND TO INCLUDE REFERENCES TO FOREIGN CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANIES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-140, RELATING TO TAX PAYMENTS, SO AS TO AMEND REQUIRED TAX PAYMENTS FOR A SPONSORED CAPTIVE INSURANCE COMPANY; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-165, RELATING TO DECLARATION OF INACTIVITY, SO AS TO ALLOW FOR THE SUBMISSION OF A WRITTEN APPROVAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-175, RELATING TO THE CAPTIVE INSURANCE REGULATORY AND SUPERVISION FUND CREATED, SO AS TO INCREASE THE ALLOWED TRANSFER OF COLLECTED TAXES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-90-215, RELATING TO PROTECTED CELLS, SO AS TO REMOVE LICENSING REQUIREMENTS.

Point of Order

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

The PRESIDENT sustained the Point of Order.

POINT OF ORDER

S. 220 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-10, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, SO AS TO DEFINE TERMS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-30, RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY OF INSURERS TO INVEST IN SECURITIES OF SUBSIDIARIES, SO AS TO INCLUDE HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-70, RELATING TO CONTENTS OF STATEMENTS, SO AS TO FURTHER EXPLAIN THE REQUIREMENTS OF REPORTING THE DESCRIPTION OF TRANSACTIONS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-90, RELATING TO APPROVAL OF COMMISSIONER OF ACQUISITION OF CONTROL, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PERSON ACQUIRING CONTROL OF A DOMESTIC INSURER TO MAINTAIN OR RESTORE CAPITAL; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-160, RELATING TO INFORMATION WHICH NEED NOT BE DISCLOSED IN REGISTRATION STATEMENTS, SO AS TO DESIGNATE THAT THE DEFINITION DOES NOT APPLY FOR OTHER PURPOSES; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-225, RELATING TO THE ANNUAL ENTERPRISE RISK REPORT, SO AS TO IDENTIFY EXEMPTIONS FOR FILING THE GROUP CAPITAL CALCULATION AND TO REQUIRE FILING RESULTS OF THE LIQUIDITY STRESS TEST FOR SOME INSURERS; BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-250, RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR TRANSACTIONS WITHIN INSURANCE SYSTEMS, SO AS TO OUTLINE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DIRECTOR, AMONG OTHER THINGS; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 38-21-290, RELATING TO CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR TO KEEP GROUP CAPITAL CALCULATIONS, GROUP CAPITAL RATIO AND LIQUIDITY STRESS TEST RESULTS, AND SUPPORTING DISCLOSURES CONFIDENTIAL; AND TO ADD REFERENCES TO THIRD-PARTY CONSULTANTS.

Point of Order

Senator MATTHEWS 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.

CARRIED OVER

S. 407 (Word version) -- Banking and Insurance Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE STATE BOARD OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, RELATING TO RETENTION OF BANK RECORDS, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 5289, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS.