South Carolina General Assembly
112th Session, 1997-1998
Journal of the House of Representatives

TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 1998

Tuesday, June 16, 1998
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The House assembled at 11:00 A.M.

Deliberations were opened with prayer by the Chaplain of the House of Representatives, the Rev. Dr. Alton C. Clark as follows:

Help us, Lord, to conduct ourselves this day as to be neither afraid of tomorrow or ashamed of yesterday. Teach us that it is better to forgive and forget than to remember and resent. Cause us to see that difficulties are to make us better, not bitter; that no cloud is so dark but that there is a rainbow in it. God forbid that we should ever be so busy planning for a rainy day that we cannot see today's sunshine.

Keep us steadfast in the words of the Psalmist: "God is our Refuge and Strength." (Psalm 46:1a) Amen.

Pursuant to Rule 6.3, the House of Representatives was led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America by the SPEAKER.

After corrections to the Journal of the proceedings of yesterday, the SPEAKER ordered it confirmed.

MOTION ADOPTED

Rep. BREELAND moved that when the House adjourns, it adjourn in memory of Rev. Benjamin J. Whipper, Sr. of Charleston, husband of former Representative Lucille Whipper and father of Representative SETH WHIPPER, which was agreed to.

REGULATIONS RECEIVED

The following were received and referred to the appropriate committees for consideration.

Document No. 2315
Promulgated By Department of Consumer Affairs
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 37-1-09 and 37-6-104(1)(c)
Adjustment of Dollar Amounts
Received By Speaker June 16, 1998
Referred to House Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry
120 Day Review Expiration Date October 14, 1998
(Subject to Sine Die Revision)

Document No. 2219
Promulgated By Clemson University
Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-119-10 et seq.
Non-Motorized Vehicles
Received By Speaker June 16, 1998
Referred to House Committee on Education and Public Works
120 Day Review Expiration Date October 14, 1998
(Subject to Sine Die Revision)

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 4, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on:

H. 4700 -- GENERAL APPROPRIATION BILL
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 4, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and has been granted Free Conference Powers and appointed Senators Drummond, Land and McConnell of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 4702:
H. 4702 -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 1997-98.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 4, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 4702:
H. 4702 -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 1997-98.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 10, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Senators Moore, Wilson and Ford of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 4824:
H. 4824 -- Reps. Inabinett, Seithel, J. Hines, Cromer, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Woodrum, Gourdine, Neal, Breeland, Simrill, Rodgers, Lloyd, Cave, Canty, Vaughn, Moody-Lawrence, Stuart, Byrd, H. Brown, Stille, Hamilton, Wilkins, Harrison, Barrett, Battle, Maddox, Govan, Miller, Jordan and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-1-100 SO AS TO REQUIRE LOCAL ELECTORAL BOARDS TO MAKE LOCAL BALLOT QUESTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE COUNTY NEWS MEDIA AT LEAST FORTY-FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE REFERENDUM, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE ELECTORAL BOARD TO INCLUDE A SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATION OF A REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE BALLOT WHEN IT DETERMINES SUCH AN EXPLANATION NECESSARY, TO PROVIDE A SCHEDULE FOR MAKING THIS EXPLANATION AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA, AND TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUM RESULTS MAY NOT BE CHALLENGED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE SCHEDULE AND A METHOD OF APPEALING A CHALLENGED EXPLANATION; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL BALLOT COMMISSION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE, WHERE IT DETERMINES IT TO BE NECESSARY, SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATIONS OF STATEWIDE REFERENDUM QUESTIONS AND DELETING THE REFERENCE TO "CONSTITUTIONAL" IN THE COMMISSION'S NAME TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE, TO ESTABLISH ACCELERATED DEADLINES FOR THE COMMISSION TO ACT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 11, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Senators Mescher, Branton and Grooms of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate on S. 1253:
S. 1253 -- Senator Mescher: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-120, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO VOTING PRECINCTS IN BERKELEY COUNTY, SO AS TO REDESIGNATE THE BOUNDARIES OF THE DEVON FOREST, STRATFORD, AND WESTVIEW-GOOSE CREEK NO. 3 PRECINCTS AND CHANGE THE MAP REFERENCE TO REFLECT THE CHANGES IN THE BOUNDARIES OF THESE PRECINCTS.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

H. 4445--COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE APPOINTED

The following was received from the Senate.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

Columbia, S.C., June 10, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon its amendments to H. 4445:
H. 4445 -- Reps. Harrison and Cotty: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-767, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES REGARDING CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE, SO AS TO REVISE THE DUTIES CONCERNING CONDUCTING VISITS TO FOSTER HOMES AND CONDUCTING INTERVIEWS OF FOSTER FAMILIES; TO DELETE THE PROVISION REQUIRING STATE EMPLOYEES TO REPORT VIOLATIONS OF THIS SECTION; TO REQUIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL TO TAKE REASONABLE STEPS TO ASSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THIS SECTION AND TO STATE THE DUTIES OF FOSTER PARENTS TO COMPLY WITH THIS SECTION.
and asks for a Committee of Conference and has appointed Senators Moore, Courtney and Glover of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate.

Very respectfully,
President

Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. HARRISON, COTTY and SCOTT to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5245 -- Reps. Kelley and Harvin: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO OFFER CONGRATULATIONS TO THE DUNES GOLF AND BEACH CLUB OF MYRTLE BEACH ON THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF ITS ESTABLISHMENT AND TO JOIN IN CELEBRATION WEEK WITH ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, TRUSTEES, AND MEMBERS DURING JUNE 22-27, 1998.

The Resolution was adopted.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5246 -- Reps. Scott, J. Brown, Cotty, Cromer, Harrison, Howard, McMaster, Neal, Quinn, J. Smith, Wilkins, Haskins, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, T. Brown, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harvin, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND THANKING THE HONORABLE ALMA W. BYRD OF RICHLAND COUNTY, OUR DEAR FRIEND AND DISTINGUISHED COLLEAGUE IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, FOR HER HIGHLY DEDICATED AND OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF SOUTH CAROLINA AS A LEGISLATOR, AND EXTENDING BEST WISHES TO HER FOR HAPPINESS AND SUCCESS IN ALL OF HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

Whereas, The Honorable Alma Weaver Byrd has represented the citizens of House District 74 (Richland County) in the General Assembly since 1991; and

Whereas, Dr. Byrd has devoted a major portion of her adult life to public service; she was a member of the Richland County School District One Board of Trustees from 1980 to 1991 and served as the board's vice chair in 1984 and from 1989 to 1991, as secretary from 1986 to 1987, and as chair in 1985; and

Whereas, she taught in the South Carolina public schools until 1960 and at Benedict College from 1960 to 1991; she was an instructor in adult education for Richland School District One from 1978 to 1980 and taught at Voorhees College from 1968 to 1970 and at Allen University from 1987 to 1990; and

Whereas, Dr. Byrd was School Board Consultant, West Africa, in 1990 and served on the Board of Directors of the South Carolina School Board Association from 1986 to 1991; she was Vice President of the Southern Regional National School Board Black Caucus from 1984 to 1987 and served on the Basic Skills Advisory Committee from 1978 to 1991; and

Whereas, she was a co-founder of the Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation in 1971, was presented the Order of the Palmetto in 1983, and received the South Carolina National Association of Social Workers' Legislative Award in 1994; and

Whereas, Alma Byrd has been an outstanding legislator; her insight, hard work, and knowledge have proved invaluable to her colleagues; she has provided superb representation for her constituents and has always striven to do what is best for the State as a whole; she also has been a true friend to all of us-a quality we have cherished; and

Whereas, Dr. Byrd's whole life can be characterized by the word "excellence"; excellence in teaching, excellence in learning, excellence in leading, and excellence in public service; she is widely respected and admired for her abilities, for her quiet effectiveness, and for her integrity; her aim clearly has always been to do what is right and true, and, in consistently acting in accordance with this philosophy during her service as a legislator, she can rightly be called "the conscience of the House"; and

Whereas, we are grateful for her service and friendship and will miss her but want her to know that we hope to see her on many occasions in the future. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina, by this resolution, commend and thank The Honorable Alma W. Byrd of Richland County, our dear friend and distinguished colleague, for her highly dedicated and outstanding service to the citizens of the Palmetto State as a legislator and extend best wishes to her for happiness and success in all of her future endeavors.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Representative Byrd.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

SENATE AMENDMENTS
CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate returned to the House with amendments the following:

H. 5183 -- Rep. Cave: A BILL TO PROVIDE FOR FOUR ADDITIONAL MEMBERS OF THE ALLENDALE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION TO SERVE FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE IN 2002, TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THESE ADDITIONAL MEMBERS SHALL BE APPOINTED, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THEIR SUCCESSORS SHALL BE ELECTED AT THE 2002 ELECTION IN THE MANNER THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL PROVIDE BY LAW.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Bill, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

ROLL CALL

The roll call of the House of Representatives was taken resulting as follows.

Allison                Altman                 Bailey
Barfield               Barrett                Battle
Bauer                  Beck                   Boan
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Campsen                Carnell
Cato                   Cave                   Chellis
Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter            Cooper
Cotty                  Cromer                 Dantzler
Davenport              Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Emory                  Felder
Fleming                Gamble                 Gourdine
Govan                  Hamilton               Harrell
Harris                 Harrison               Harvin
Haskins                Hawkins                Hines, J.
Hines, M.              Hinson                 Howard
Inabinett              Keegan                 Kelley
Kennedy                Kinon                  Kirsh
Klauber                Knotts                 Koon
Lanford                Law                    Leach
Lee                    Limehouse              Littlejohn
Lloyd                  Loftis                 Mack
Maddox                 Martin                 Mason
McAbee                 McCraw                 McGee
McKay                  McLeod                 McMahand
McMaster               Meacham                Moody-Lawrence
Mullen                 Neilson                Rhoad
Rice                   Riser                  Robinson
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scott
Sharpe                 Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, F.              Smith, J.
Smith, R.              Spearman               Stoddard
Stuart                 Townsend               Trotter
Vaughn                 Webb                   Whatley
Wilder                 Wilkins                Witherspoon
Woodrum                Young                  Young-Brickell

STATEMENT OF ATTENDANCE

I came in after the roll call and was present for the Session on Tuesday, June 16.

J. Michael Baxley                 Vida Osteen Miller
Clementa C. Pinckney              Timothy C. Wilkes
William K. Bowers                 Alma W. Byrd
Theodore A. Brown                 Harry C. Stille
Richard M. Quinn, Jr.             Ralph W. Canty
Daniel L. Tripp                   Lynn Seithel
Douglas Jennings, Jr.             Joseph H. Neal
Total Present--119

LEAVES OF ABSENCE

The SPEAKER granted Rep. WHIPPER a leave of absence for the day due to a death in the family.

The SPEAKER granted Rep. PHILLIPS a leave of absence for the day due to illness.

H. 4953--TABLED

The following Joint Resolution was taken up.

H. 4953 -- Reps. H. Brown, Sheheen, Wilkins and Young-Brickell: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE FOR THE CONTINUING AUTHORITY TO PAY THE EXPENSES OF STATE GOVERNMENT IF THE 1998-99 FISCAL YEAR BEGINS WITHOUT A GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT FOR THE YEAR IN EFFECT.

Rep. HARRELL moved to table the Joint Resolution, which was agreed to.

H. 4757--CONTINUED

The Senate amendments to the following Bill were taken up for consideration.

H. 4757 -- Reps. Barfield, Battle, T. Brown, Davenport, Edge, Miller, Sharpe, Witherspoon, Mullen, Rhoad, Hamilton and J. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 50-21-30, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO LAWS OR ORDINANCES GOVERNING THE OPERATION AND EQUIPPING OF VESSELS OPERATED ON THE WATERS OF THIS STATE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MAY ESTABLISH TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT SLOW SPEED ZONES BY DESIGNATING THE AREAS WITH REGULATORY MARKERS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHENEVER FLOOD CONDITIONS MAKE OPERATION OF WATERCRAFT HAZARDOUS OR DANGEROUS TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY, THE DEPARTMENT HAS THE AUTHORITY TO TEMPORARILY CLOSE AREAS OF THE WATERS OF THIS STATE TO ALL RECREATIONAL VESSELS AND COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSELS FOR A PERIOD NOT TO EXCEED TEN DAYS, AND TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN EXTENSIONS OF AND EXCEPTIONS TO THIS CLOSURE.

Rep. DAVENPORT moved to continue the Bill, which was agreed to.

H. 4998--DEBATE ADJOURNED

The Senate amendments to the following Joint Resolution were taken up for consideration.

H. 4998 -- Reps. Boan and Lanford: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO FINANCE, TAXATION, AND DEBT, BY PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 11 OF THIS ARTICLE SO AS TO ALLOW THE STATE TREASURER TO INVEST ENDOWMENT FUNDS DONATED SPECIFICALLY TO STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN EQUITY SECURITIES OF UNITED STATES CORPORATIONS REGISTERED ON A NATIONAL SECURITIES EXCHANGE OR QUOTED THROUGH A NATIONAL QUOTATIONS SYSTEM, SUBJECT TO LEGISLATION ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WHICH REQUIRES THESE ENDOWMENT FUNDS HELD AND INVESTED BY THE STATE TREASURER TO BE INVESTED PURSUANT TO A PLAN RECOMMENDED BY THE STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS INVESTMENT PANEL WHICH MUST BE SUBMITTED TO AND APPROVED BY THE BOARDS OF TRUSTEES OF THE RESPECTIVE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES; AND BY PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 14 OF THIS ARTICLE TO AUTHORIZE THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO PROVIDE BY LAW FOR THE INCURRENCE OF INDEBTEDNESS BY COUNTIES FOR REDEVELOPMENT PURPOSES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEBT SERVICE OF SUCH INDEBTEDNESS TO BE PROVIDED FROM THE ADDED INCREMENT OF TAX REVENUES TO RESULT FROM THE PROJECT.

Rep. BOAN moved to adjourn debate upon the Senate amendments, which was adopted.

H. 5174--CONTINUED

The Senate amendments to the following Joint Resolution were taken up for consideration.

H. 5174 -- Reps. Edge, Barfield, Witherspoon, Keegan and Kelley: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADVISORY REFERENDUM TO BE HELD AT THE SAME TIME AS THE 1998 GENERAL ELECTION TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF HORRY COUNTY FAVOR REDUCING THE SIZE OF THE HORRY COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION IN A SPECIFIED MANNER.

Rep. EDGE moved to continue the Joint Resolution, which was agreed to.

RECURRENCE TO THE MORNING HOUR

Rep. H. BROWN moved that the House recur to the morning hour, which was agreed to.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5247 -- Rep. Cotty: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE MRS. JULIANNA NELSON LORICK OF KERSHAW COUNTY ON BEING NAMED THE 1997 SOUTH CAROLINA AUTISM SOCIETY THERAPIST OF THE YEAR AND TO EXTEND BEST WISHES TO HER AS SHE COMPETES AS A FINALIST FOR THE 1998 NATIONAL AUTISM SOCIETY OF AMERICA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR.

The Resolution was adopted.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5248 -- Rep. Bauer: A HOUSE RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING MR. JIM MILLS FOR HIS DISTINGUISHED CAREER AS CHAPIN HIGH SCHOOL BAND DIRECTOR AND WISHING HIM WELL IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

The Resolution was adopted.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5249 -- Reps. Scott, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Byrd, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Cromer, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Howard, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, McMaster, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neal, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE LATE MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE OF MAYESVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THE OBSERVANCE OF HER ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-THIRD BIRTHDAY.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

H. 4998--SENATE AMENDMENTS
CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate amendments to the following Joint Resolution were taken up for consideration.

H. 4998 -- Reps. Boan and Lanford: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO FINANCE, TAXATION, AND DEBT, BY PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 11 OF THIS ARTICLE SO AS TO ALLOW THE STATE TREASURER TO INVEST ENDOWMENT FUNDS DONATED SPECIFICALLY TO STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN EQUITY SECURITIES OF UNITED STATES CORPORATIONS REGISTERED ON A NATIONAL SECURITIES EXCHANGE OR QUOTED THROUGH A NATIONAL QUOTATIONS SYSTEM, SUBJECT TO LEGISLATION ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WHICH REQUIRES THESE ENDOWMENT FUNDS HELD AND INVESTED BY THE STATE TREASURER TO BE INVESTED PURSUANT TO A PLAN RECOMMENDED BY THE STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS INVESTMENT PANEL WHICH MUST BE SUBMITTED TO AND APPROVED BY THE BOARDS OF TRUSTEES OF THE RESPECTIVE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES; AND BY PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 14 OF THIS ARTICLE TO AUTHORIZE THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO PROVIDE BY LAW FOR THE INCURRENCE OF INDEBTEDNESS BY COUNTIES FOR REDEVELOPMENT PURPOSES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DEBT SERVICE OF SUCH INDEBTEDNESS TO BE PROVIDED FROM THE ADDED INCREMENT OF TAX REVENUES TO RESULT FROM THE PROJECT.

Rep. BOAN explained the Senate amendment.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Joint Resolution, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

S. 310--CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
S. 310 -- Banking and Insurance Committee: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 71, TITLE 38, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 15, SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA PATIENTS' INSURANCE AND BENEFITS PROTECTION ACT WHICH DEFINES CERTAIN HEALTH CARE PLANS AND OTHER TERMS; SPECIFIES CERTAIN HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE OPTIONS WHEN THE INSURED OR MEMBER IS EMPLOYED BY AN EMPLOYER THAT HAS MORE THAN FIFTY ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES; AND PROVIDES CERTAIN EXCLUSIONS FROM THE APPLICATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ARTICLE.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Chapter 71, Title 38 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Article 17
Patients' Insurance and Benefits Protection

Section 38-71-1710.     This article may be cited as the 'South Carolina Patients' Insurance and Benefits Protection Act'.

Section 38-71-1720.     As used in this article:

(1)     'Closed panel health plan' means a network plan that requires an insured or a member to seek covered health care services or supplies, except in the case of emergency, exclusively from network providers.

(2)     'Eligibility' means the time at which an insured or a member is entitled to enroll under the terms of the coverage offered by the network plan by virtue of:

(a)     terms of employment;

(b)     an annual open enrollment period; or

(c)     at any other time during which the network plan's procedures or South Carolina law allows enrollment in the plan or allows renewal in the plan.

(3)     'Health insurance coverage' means coverage as defined in Section 38-71-840(14).

(4)     'Network plan' means a plan as defined in Section 38-71-840(24).

(5)     'Network providers' means those entities and individuals who provide covered health care services or supplies to an insured or a
member pursuant to a contract with a network plan to act as a participating provider.

(6)     'Open panel health plan' means a plan which permits an insured or a member to seek covered health care services or supplies exclusively from an out-of-network provider.

(7)     'Out-of-network providers' means those entities and individuals who provide covered health care services or supplies who are not network providers.

(8)     'Point-of-service option' means a network plan that provides benefits for services or supplies provided by network providers and provides benefits for services or supplies provided by nonparticipating network providers.

(a)     In-network covered health care services provided through a licensed health maintenance organization are governed by and subject to the provisions of Chapter 33 of this title.

(b)     Out-of-network coverage may be underwritten by and provided through the health maintenance organization or through a licensed insurance company. The Director of Insurance may promulgate regulations as necessary or appropriate to implement the provisions of this subsection.

(c)     Any benefit limitation for out-of-network covered health care services applied to an annual or lifetime benefit limitation may be offset against the benefit limitation applicable to in-network covered health care services or supplies, regardless of whether out-of-network coverage is provided through a health maintenance organization or an insurance company.

(d)     The rating methods used to establish premiums for the point-of-service option must be based on actuarially sound principles.

Section 38-71-1730.     (A)     For purposes of health plans offered pursuant to this section:

(1)     An employer who employs more than fifty eligible employees and who offers to employees major medical, hospitalization, and surgical health insurance coverage only under a closed panel health plan, also shall offer to employees at the time of their eligibility as major medical, hospitalization, and surgical health insurance coverage a point-of-service option. An employee of an employer offering only a closed panel health plan has the right to choose whether to remain in the closed panel health plan or to choose a point-of-service option.

(2)     An employer may require an employee who chooses a point-of-service option to be responsible for payment of premiums, deductibles, copayments, or other payments in excess of the benefits provided by the closed panel health plan.

(3)     Differences between coinsurance percentages for in-network and out-of-network covered health care services or supplies in a point-of-service option may not exceed a maximum differential of twenty percent. The coinsurance percentage for in-network and out-of-network covered health care services or supplies provided by dentists may not exceed a maximum difference of five percent.

(4)     An employee, a spouse, or a dependent receiving treatment for an illness covered under a closed panel health plan may continue to receive services from a provider who elects to discontinue participation as a closed panel plan provider, subject to the terms of the contract between the provider and the health plan. This right of continuation is limited to a period of ninety days or the anniversary date of the plan, whichever occurs first.

(5)     A point-of-service option or closed panel health plan offered pursuant to this article may not discriminate against a physician, a podiatrist, an optometrist, an oral surgeon, or a chiropractor by excluding the provider from participating in the plan on the basis of the profession. A health care plan may not exclude these providers from providing health care services which they are licensed to provide and which are covered by the plan and as determined by medical necessity under utilization review guidelines. Nothing in this section interferes in any way with the medical decision of the primary health care provider to use or not use any health care professional on a case-by-case basis.

(6)     A pharmacist may provide professional services under the pharmacist's scope of practice so long as the services are provided pursuant to a prescription written by a medical doctor or dentist with whom the patient has an established physician-patient relationship. Nothing in this subsection requires a managed care plan to provide reimbursement to a pharmacist. An advanced practice nurse functioning as authorized by the State Board of Nursing Regulation 91-6 may provide professional services under the advanced practice nurse's scope of practice so long as the services provided are pursuant to protocols by a medical doctor with whom the patient has an established physician-patient relationship. A point-of-service option offered pursuant to this section may not discriminate against an advanced practice nurse. Nothing in this subsection requires a managed care plan to provide reimbursement to an advanced practice nurse.

(7)     Nothing contained in this article affects in any way a plan exempted by the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 or any South Carolina law in existence before January 1, 1999, and state employee health insurance programs or any political subdivision self-funded health insurance program; and this article does not affect the right of an employer to specify plan design or affect the right of a plan to credential or re-credential a provider. Nothing contained in this article affects accident-only, blanket accident and sickness, specified disease, credit, Medicare supplement, long-term care, or disability income insurance, coverage issued as a supplement to liability or other insurance coverage designed solely to provide payments on a per diem, fixed-indemnity, or nonexpense incurred basis, coverage for Medicare or Medicaid services pursuant to a contract with state or federal government, worker's compensation or similar insurance, or automobile medical payment insurance.

(B)     This section applies only to employers who employ more than fifty eligible employees and who offer as major medical, hospitalization, and surgical health insurance coverage, only a closed panel health plan.

Section 38-71-1740.     (A)     For purposes of any health insurance plan, health maintenance organization, or any other health benefits plan offered in this State under the jurisdiction of South Carolina law:

(1)     Each party to a managed care participating provider agreement is responsible for the legal consequences and costs of his own acts or omissions, or both, and is not responsible for the acts or omissions, or both, of the other party. A clause in a participating provider agreement to the contrary is unlawful in this State, as a matter of public policy, whether entered into before or after January 1, 1999.

(2)     To the extent that a network plan requires an insured or a member to receive health benefits through a network of providers, the provisions of participating provider agreements may not limit the network provider's:

(a)     ability to discuss with an insured or a member, the treatment options available to the insured or member, risks associated with treatments, utilization management decisions, and recommended course of treatment;

(b)     legal obligations to an insured or a member as specified under the provider's professional license.

(B)     Nothing in this section:

(1)     prevents a network plan from prohibiting disclosure by network providers of trade secrets;

(2)     subjects a network plan to liability for clinical decisions made solely by the network provider; and

(3)     limits the ability of the network plan otherwise prudently to administer its provider contracts.

Section 38-71-1750.     A network plan must disclose in writing, using the plain and ordinary meaning of words so as reasonably to ensure comprehension by the insured or member, and make available to an insured or a member at the time of enrollment:

(1)     services or benefits under the plan, including limitations on services;

(2)     rules regarding copayments, prior authorization, and review requirements that apply to the benefits plan of the insured or member;

(3)     potential financial liability for the insured or member to pay for a portion of services received from an out-of-network provider;

(4)     financial obligations of the insured or member for items and services both in and out of the network;

(5)     the number, mix, and distribution of network providers and a current list of network providers upon request from an insured or a member;

(6)     the rights and responsibilities of an insured or a member, including an explanation of any appeals process for the denial of care or services under the plan;

(7)     the existence of any limitations on the choice of providers by an insured or a member."

SECTION     2.     If a provision of this act or the application of the provision to a person or circumstance is held to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this act and the application of the provisions of this act to a person or circumstance is not affected.

SECTION     3.     This act takes effect January 1, 1999, except that the provisions of the act applicable to employer-sponsored health plans are effective for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 1999. /

Amend title to read:
/TO AMEND CHAPTER 71, TITLE 38, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 17, SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA PATIENTS' INSURANCE AND BENEFITS PROTECTION ACT WHICH DEFINES CERTAIN HEALTH CARE PLANS AND OTHER TERMS, REQUIRES THE OFFER OF A POINT-OF-SERVICE OPTION WHEN THE INSURED OR MEMBER IS EMPLOYED BY AN EMPLOYER THAT HAS MORE THAN FIFTY ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES AND THAT OFFERS ONLY A CLOSED PANEL HEALTH CARE PLAN, PROVIDES FOR THE DIFFERENTIALS IN PREMIUMS, DEDUCTIBLES, COPAYMENTS, AND COINSURANCE, AND PROHIBITS DISCRIMINATION BY THE HEALTH PLANS AGAINST A PHYSICIAN, A PODIATRIST, AN OPTOMETRIST, AN ORAL SURGEON, A CHIROPRACTOR, A PHARMACIST, OR AN ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSE BY REASON OF PROFESSION./

/s/Senator Glenn F. McConnell     /s/Rep. Harry F. Cato
/s/Senator Kay Patterson          /s/Rep. Herbert Kirsh
/s/Senator Larry A. Martin        /s/Rep. Daniel L. Tripp
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

Rep. CATO explained the Conference Report.

The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Senators Courtney, Gregory and Jackson of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 3714:
H. 3714 -- Reps. Wilkins and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-3-180, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE NAME CHANGE OF A WOMAN UPON DIVORCE AND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF FAMILY COURT, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE FAMILY COURT ALSO TO GRANT A NAME CHANGE UPON AN ORDER OF SEPARATE MAINTENANCE.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has appointed Senators Drummond, Land and McConnell of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 4535:
H. 4535 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 59 OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 149 SO AS TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER WHICH THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COVER THE COST OF ATTENDANCE UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS TO ELIGIBLE RESIDENT STUDENTS ATTENDING CERTAIN PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3385 SO AS TO ALLOW A REFUNDABLE STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX CREDIT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS FOR TUITION PAID AT A PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TO DEFINE SUCH INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THE CRITERIA STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR THE CREDIT MUST MEET, TO DEFINE TUITION FOR PURPOSES OF THE CREDIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT APPLIES ONLY FOR STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL DURING OR AFTER MAY, 1998.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

H. 4804--COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE APPOINTED

The following was received from the Senate.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon its amendments to H. 4804:
H. 4804 -- Rep. Jennings: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1040, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THREATENING THE LIFE, PERSON, OR FAMILY OF A PUBLIC OFFICIAL, TEACHER OR PRINCIPAL, SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL TO THREATEN THE LIFE, PERSON, OR FAMILY OF ANY PUBLIC EMPLOYEE, AND REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION.
and asks for a Committee of Conference and has appointed Senators Bryan, Wilson and Ford of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate.

Very respectfully,
President

Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. McMASTER, FLEMING and ALTMAN to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4853--COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE APPOINTED

The following was received from the Senate.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it insists upon its amendments to H. 4853:
H. 4853 -- Rep. Boan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-710, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO SET PERCENTAGES OF REFUND FOR TAXABLE MOTOR FUEL USED TO OPERATE CERTAIN POWER TAKE-OFF EQUIPMENT, AND TO EXEMPT KEROSENE IN CERTAIN INSTANCES AND MOTOR FUEL USED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS FOR STATE-FUNDED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1730, RELATING TO PENALTIES IN CONNECTION WITH TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CIVIL PENALTIES WHICH MAY BE IMPOSED REGARDING THE SALE OR USE OF DYED FUEL; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-31-220 AND 12-31-250 RELATING TO TEMPORARY AND BIENNIAL REGISTRATION CARDS AND IDENTIFICATION MARKERS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS.
and asks for a Committee of Conference and has appointed Senators Drummond, Land and McConnell of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate.

Very respectfully,
President

Whereupon, the Chair appointed Reps. H. BROWN, YOUNG-BRICKELL and BOAN to the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

JOINT ASSEMBLY

At 12:00 Noon the Senate appeared in the Hall of the House.

The President of the Senate called the Joint Assembly to order and announced that it had convened under the terms of a Concurrent Resolution adopted by both Houses.

ELECTION OF CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES
FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1
EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1
FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2
ELECTION OF A CONSUMER AFFAIRS
COMMISSION MEMBER

The Reading Clerk of the House read the following Concurrent Resolution:

H. 5159 -- Reps. Wilkins, Haskins, Harrison, Cato, H. Brown, Townsend, J. Brown, Sharpe and D. Smith: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT PURSUANT TO ARTICLE III, SECTION 21 OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THIS STATE AND SECTION 2-1-180 OF THE 1976 CODE, WHEN THE RESPECTIVE HOUSES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURN ON THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 1998, NOT LATER THAN 5:00 P.M., EACH HOUSE SHALL STAND ADJOURNED TO MEET AT 11:00 A.M. ON TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 1998, IN STATEWIDE SESSION AND THEREAFTER ON JUNE 16 TO MEET IN JOINT ASSEMBLY AT 12:00 NOON FOR JUDICIAL ELECTIONS AND A MEMBER OF THE CONSUMER AFFAIRS COMMISSION AND TO CONTINUE IN STATEWIDE SESSION, IF NECESSARY, UNTIL THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 1998, NOT LATER THAN 5:00 P.M., FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF SPECIFIED MATTERS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT WHEN EACH HOUSE ADJOURNS ON THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 1998, NOT LATER THAN 5:00 P.M., THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SHALL STAND ADJOURNED SINE DIE.

The President recognized Rep. DELLENEY, Chairman of the Judicial Merit Selection Commission.

ELECTION OF A CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE,
FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1

The President announced that nominations were in order for a Circuit Court Judge, First Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.

Rep. DELLENEY, Chairman of the Commission, stated that the following candidates had been screened, found qualified, and placed their names in nomination: F. Lee Prickett, Jr., James F. Walsh, Jr., and James C. Williams, Jr.

Rep. DELLENEY stated that F. Lee Prickett, Jr. and James F. Walsh, Jr. had withdrawn from the contest.

On motion of Rep. DELLENEY, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the President announced that the Honorable James C. Williams, Jr. was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

ELECTION OF A CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE,
EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1

The President announced that nominations were in order for a Circuit Court Judge, Eighth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1.

Rep. DELLENEY, Chairman of the Commission, stated that the following candidates had been screened, found qualified, and placed their names in nomination: John R. McCravy III, John M. Rucker, and Wyatt T. Saunders, Jr.

Rep. DELLENEY stated that John R. McCravy III and John M. Rucker had withdrawn from the contest.

On motion of Rep. DELLENEY, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the President announced that the Honorable Wyatt T. Saunders, Jr. was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

ELECTION OF A CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE,
FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2

The President announced that nominations were in order for a Circuit Court Judge, Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, Seat 2.

Rep. DELLENEY, Chairman of the Commission, stated that the following candidates had been screened, found qualified, and placed their names in nomination: Steven H. John, Paula H. Thomas, and Ralph J. Wilson.

Rep. DELLENEY stated that Steven H. John and Ralph J. Wilson had withdrawn from the contest.

On motion of Rep. DELLENEY, nominations were closed, and with unanimous consent, the vote was taken by acclamation, resulting in the election of the nominee.

Whereupon, the President announced that the Honorable Paula H. Thomas was duly elected for the term prescribed by law.

ELECTION OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS COMMISSION, SEAT 1

Senator Courtney, Chairman of the Committee to Review Candidates for the S.C. Consumer Affairs Commission, stated that the following candidates had been screened and found qualified:

Reese E. Griffin, Landrum H. Henderson, Jr., B.J. MacInnis, Louis Mayrant, Jr., Aubrey Powell, William R. Preston, Kathy Kern Ross, and Ron G. Skipper.

Senator Courtney stated that the following candidates had withdrawn from the race: Landrum H. Henderson, Jr., William R. Preston, and Ron G. Skipper.

On motion of Senator Courtney, nominations were closed.

The Reading Clerk of the Senate called the roll of the Senate and the Senators voted viva voce as their names were called:

The following named Senators voted for Mr. Griffin:

Courtney               Fair                   Hayes
Leatherman             Peeler                 Russell

Total--6

The following named Senator voted for Mr. MacInnis:
Giese

Total--1

The following named Senators voted for Mr. Mayrant:

Alexander              Anderson               Branton
Bryan                  Drummond               Elliott
Ford                   Glover                 Gregory
Grooms                 Holland                Hutto
Jackson                Land                   Lander
Martin                 Matthews               McConnell
Moore                  O'Dell                 Passailaigue
Patterson              Ravenel                Ryberg
Saleeby                Setzler                Short
Smith, J. Verne        Thomas                 Waldrep
Washington

Total--31

The following named Senators voted for Mrs. Powell:

Courson                Wilson

Total--2

The following named Senators voted for Mrs. Ross:

Total--0

On motion of Rep. HASKINS, with unanimous consent, the Members of the House voted by electronic roll call:

The following named Representatives voted for Mr. Griffin:

Allison                Barfield               Beck
Bowers                 Brown, H.              Campsen
Cooper                 Easterday              Edge
Hamilton               Harvin                 Haskins
Keegan                 Kelley                 Leach
Loftis                 Martin                 Mason
Meacham                Mullen                 Rodgers
Sandifer               Smith, D.              Smith, R.
Stoddard               Townsend               Tripp
Trotter                Vaughn                 Whatley
Witherspoon            Woodrum                Young-Brickell

Total--33

The following named Representatives voted for Mr. MacInnis:

Total--0

The following named Representatives voted for Mr. Mayrant:

Bailey                 Barrett                Battle
Baxley                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, J.              Byrd                   Canty
Carnell                Cato                   Cave
Chellis                Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Cromer                 Dantzler               Davenport
Delleney               Emory                  Felder
Gourdine               Govan                  Harrell
Harris                 Harrison               Hawkins
Hines, J.              Hines, M.              Hinson
Howard                 Inabinett              Jennings
Kennedy                Kinon                  Kirsh
Klauber                Lanford                Lee
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Lloyd
Mack                   McAbee                 McCraw
McGee                  McKay                  McLeod
McMahand               McMaster               Moody-Lawrence
Neal                   Neilson                Pinckney
Rhoad                  Scott                  Seithel
Sharpe                 Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, F.              Webb                   Wilder
Wilkes                 Young

Total--65

The following named Representatives voted for Mrs. Powell:

Bauer                  Fleming                Knotts
Koon                   Law                    Rice
Riser                  Robinson               Spearman
Stuart

Total--10

The following named Representative voted for Mrs. Ross:
Smith, J.

Total--1
RECAPITULATION

Total number of Senators voting     40
Total number of Representatives voting     109
Grand Total     149

Necessary to a choice     75
Of which Mr. Griffin received     39
Of which Mr. MacInnis received     1
Of which Mr. Mayrant received     96
Of which Mrs. Powell received     12
Of which Mrs. Ross received     1

Whereupon, the President announced that Louis Mayrant, Jr. was elected for the term prescribed by law.

JOINT ASSEMBLY RECEDES

The purposes of the Joint Assembly having been accomplished, the President announced that under the terms of the Concurrent Resolution the Joint Assembly would recede from business.

The Senate accordingly retired to its Chamber.

THE HOUSE RESUMES

At 12:30 P.M. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.

Rep. H. BROWN moved that the House recede until 2:00 P.M., which was adopted.

THE HOUSE RESUMES

At 2:00 P.M. the House resumed, the SPEAKER in the Chair.

ACTING SPEAKER KOON IN CHAIR
POINT OF QUORUM

The question of a quorum was raised. A quorum was later present.

SPEAKER IN CHAIR

R. 486; H. 4922--GOVERNOR'S VETO SUSTAINED
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

June 9, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

I am hereby returning without my signature H. 4922, R. 486, an Act:
TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2780, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PENALTY ASSOCIATED WITH UNLAWFULLY PASSING A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS, SO AS TO REVISE THE PENALTY FOR A FIRST OFFENSE.

I am vetoing this bill because it decreases the penalty for unlawfully passing a stopped school bus. While the bill would authorize the Court to order both a fine and imprisonment, lowering the amount of the fine is inappropriate. This is an important safety issue for children, and I cannot accept the lowering of the fine. Should the General Assembly wish to transfer jurisdiction over this offense to Magistrates Court, it can do so without lowering the penalty.

For the above reason, I am vetoing H. 4922, R. 486 of 1998.

Sincerely,
David M. Beasley

Rep. KNOTTS spoke against the veto.

Rep. ROBINSON spoke in favor of the veto.

The question was put, shall the Act become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 43; Nays 52

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Altman                 Bailey                 Bauer
Baxley                 Bowers                 Breeland
Brown, G.              Brown, T.              Campsen
Cave                   Cobb-Hunter            Cotty
Cromer                 Dantzler               Emory
Gourdine               Govan                  Harris
Harvin                 Hines, J.              Howard
Inabinett              Jennings               Kennedy
Knotts                 Koon                   Law
Lee                    Lloyd                  Maddox
McLeod                 McMahand               Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Mullen                 Neal
Pinckney               Rice                   Scott
Sheheen                Smith, F.              Smith, J.
Stuart

Total--43

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allison                Barfield               Barrett
Battle                 Beck                   Brown, J.
Cato                   Chellis                Delleney
Easterday              Edge                   Felder
Gamble                 Hamilton               Harrell
Harrison               Haskins                Hinson
Keegan                 Kelley                 Kirsh
Leach                  Littlejohn             Loftis
Martin                 Mason                  McCraw
McGee                  McKay                  McMaster
Meacham                Neilson                Riser
Robinson               Rodgers                Sandifer
Sharpe                 Simrill                Smith, D.
Smith, R.              Spearman               Stille
Stoddard               Trotter                Vaughn
Webb                   Whatley                Wilder
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Woodrum
Young

Total--52

So, the veto of the Governor was sustained and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

R. 501; H. 5143--GOVERNOR'S VETO OVERRIDDEN
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

June 10, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

I am hereby returning without my signature H. 5143, R. 501, an Act:
AN ACT TO ENACT THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF UNION COUNTY SCHOOL BOND-PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ACT SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE IMPLEMENTATION FOLLOWING REFERENDUM APPROVAL OF A SALES AND USE TAX IN UNION COUNTY NOT TO EXCEED TWO PERCENT FOR DEBT SERVICE ON GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS ISSUED FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION OR FOR DIRECT PAYMENTS FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION; AND TO AMEND ACT 79 OF 1955, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF UNION COUNTY, SO AS TO DELETE PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO CERTAIN PROCEDURAL MATTERS OF THE BOARD AND COMPENSATION OF BOARD MEMBERS.

This veto is based upon my belief that H. 5143, R. 501, violates the intent of South Carolina Statute 4-10-310, which was to provide uniformity and control over local imposition of sales tax. The Capital Projects Sales Tax Act limits local governments to imposition of no more than 1% sales tax through local legislation. I believe that it is inappropriate to begin undermining this important limitation on taxing authority under the guise of local legislation.

For the above reason, I am vetoing H. 5143, R. 501 of 1998.

Sincerely,
David M. Beasley

The question was put, shall the Act become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 2; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Fleming                Wilder

Total--2

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the veto of the Governor was overridden and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has sustained the veto by the Governor on S. 1248, R. 438 by a vote of 46 to 0.
(R438) S. 1248 -- Senator Elliott: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 742 OF 1946, AS AMENDED, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIRED TOWNSHIPS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE LORIS COMMUNITY HOSPITAL COMMISSION MUST BE APPOINTED.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

R. 438; S. 1248--GOVERNOR'S VETO OVERRIDDEN
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

June 8, 1998
The Honorable Robert L. Peeler
President of the Senate
Post Office Box 142
Columbia, S.C. 29202

Dear Mr. President and Members of the Senate:

I am hereby returning without my signature S. 1248, R. 438, an Act:
AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 742 OF 1946, AS AMENDED, SO AS TO REVISE THE REQUIRED TOWNSHIPS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE LORIS COMMUNITY HOSPITAL COMMISSION MUST BE APPOINTED.

This veto is based upon my belief that S. 1248, R. 438, is unconstitutional. Article VIII, Section 7 of the South Carolina Constitution states that "[n]o laws for a specific county shall be enacted."

For the above reason, I am vetoing S. 1248, R. 438 of 1998.

Sincerely,
David M. Beasley

The question was put, shall the Act become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 6; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Barfield               Edge                   Keegan
Kelley                 Miller                 Witherspoon

Total--6

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the veto of the Governor was overridden and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5250 -- Rep. Scott: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE HONORABLE HARRIET GARDIN FIELDS FOR HER DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF RICHLAND COUNTY DURING HER TENURE ON THE RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL AND EXTENDING BEST WISHES TO HER IN ALL HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 1292 -- Senator Washington: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION THAT THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONGRATULATE DAYCO WALTERBORO ON TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF OUTSTANDING INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT ON THE OCCASION OF THE PLANT'S TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 1291 -- Senators Short, Peeler and Lander: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SINCERE APPRECIATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO JOHN E. FARR FOR TWELVE YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ON THE UNION COUNTY COUNCIL, UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5251 -- Reps. Wilkins, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Byrd, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Cromer, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Howard, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, McMaster, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neal, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Scott, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO OFFER THE DEEP APPRECIATION OF THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO OUR THIRD FLOOR BLATT BUILDING RECEPTIONIST, RUTH M. CHAMBERS ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT AND TO WISH HER ALL THE BEST AS SHE BRINGS HER SERVICE TO THIS BODY TO A CLOSE.

Whereas, we have learned with regret that Ruth M. Chambers, one of the Palmetto State's most dedicated employees and a revered member of the Blatt Building staff; and

Whereas, as of July 1, 1998, Ruth Chambers will have worked for the House of Representatives for eighteen years, five months, three weeks, and six days; and

Whereas, Ruth was a devoted and faithful wife to her husband, the late Harold D. Chambers and the couple were blessed with three sons: David, Mark, and Joel and two daughters-in-law, Gloria and Elizabeth; and

Whereas, Ruth has only one grandchild, Carly Jane, who is truly her heartstring, the apple of her life, and, definitely her pride and joy; and

Whereas, her religious convictions are genuine because she practices them every moment of every day. She is a loyal member of Longcreek Church of Christ; and

Whereas, Ruth loves to travel abroad; visit with her sister, Grace, in Charlotte, North Carolina; visit her brother, Robert, and baby sister, Helen, in Florence, Alabama; flies to Chicago to be with her oldest son, David, and his wife, Gloria; and, last but not least, she drives to the mountains to be with her precious granddaughter, Carly Jane; and

Whereas, the constituents of Representatives Alex Harvin, Gilda Cobb-Hunter, Joe Neal, and James Smith will be devastated when they call and no longer hear her sweet loving "soprano" voice.

Whereas, the entire House membership and its staff, along with her supervisor, Ann Martin and coworkers, Paulette, Betty, and Marcia have all become a part of her extended family and would like to thank her for making the Blatt Building a "special" place; and

Whereas, the members of the House of Representatives want Ruth Chambers to know that her character, spirit, and gentle personality have added greatly to the hallowed halls of the Blatt Building. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the House of Representatives of the State of South Carolina hereby offer their deep appreciation to their Third Floor Blatt Building Receptionist, Ruth M. Chambers, on the occasion of her retirement and wish her all the best as she brings her service to this body to a close.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Ruth M. Chambers.

The Resolution was adopted.

S. 174---FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 3, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
S. 174 -- Senator Giese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-1-286 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A SIX-MONTH'S SUSPENSION OF THE DRIVER'S LICENSE OF A PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF TWENTY-ONE OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE WHO HAS A BLOOD ALCOHOL CONTENT IN EXCESS OF TWO ONE-HUNDREDTHS OF ONE PERCENT, TO PROVIDE THAT LICENSED DRIVERS UNDER TWENTY-ONE HAVE CONSENTED TO BE TESTED, TO LIMIT TESTING TO INCIDENTS IN WHICH A PERSON HAS BEEN ARRESTED FOR A TRAFFIC OFFENSE, TO PRESCRIBE THE METHOD AND PROCEDURES FOR TESTING AND REQUIRE AN AUTOMATIC SIX-MONTH'S SUSPENSION FOR REFUSAL TO BE TESTED, TO PROVIDE THAT THE SUSPENSION BEGINS IMMEDIATELY UPON THE OFFICER TAKING POSSESSION OF THE LICENSE, TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING ON THE SUSPENSION AT THE DRIVER'S REQUEST, AND TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHOSE LICENSE IS SUSPENDED IS NOT REQUIRED TO FILE PROOF OF FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Section 56-1-10 of the 1976 Code, as amended, is further amended by adding:

"(16)     'Alcohol' means a substance containing any form of alcohol including, but not limited to, ethanol, methanol, propanol, and isopropanol.

(17)     'Alcohol concentration' means:

(a)     the number of grams of alcohol for each one hundred milliliters of blood by weight; or

(b)     as determined by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for other bodily fluids."

SECTION     2.     Article 1, Chapter 1, Title 56 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 56-1-286.     (A) In addition to any other penalty imposed by law unless otherwise prohibited in this section, including additional driver's license suspensions, the Department of Public Safety must suspend the driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege of, or deny the issuance of a license or permit to a person under the age of twenty-one who drives a motor vehicle and has an alcohol concentration of two one-hundredths of one percent or more. The department shall not suspend a person's privilege to drive under this section if the person's privilege to drive has been suspended for a violation of Section 20-7-8920, 20-7-8925, or 56-5-2930 arising from the same incident.

(B)     A person under the age of twenty-one who drives a motor vehicle in this State is considered to have given consent to chemical tests of his breath or blood for the purpose of determining the presence of alcohol.

(C)     A law enforcement officer who has arrested a person under the age of twenty-one for a violation of Chapter 5 of this title (Uniform Act Regulating Traffic on Highways), or any other traffic offense established by a political subdivision of this State, and has probable cause to believe that the person under the age of twenty-one has consumed alcoholic beverages and driven a motor vehicle may order the testing of the person arrested to determine the person's alcohol concentration.

A law enforcement officer may detain and order the testing of a person to determine the person's alcohol concentration if the officer has probable cause to believe that a motor vehicle is being driven by a person under the age of twenty-one who has consumed alcoholic beverages.

(D)     A test must be administered at the direction of the primary investigating law enforcement officer. At the direction of the officer, the person first must be offered a breath test to determine the person's alcohol concentration. If the person physically is unable to provide an acceptable breath sample because he has an injured mouth or is unconscious or dead, or for any other reason considered acceptable by licensed medical personnel, a blood sample may be taken. The breath test must be administered by a person trained and certified by the State Law Enforcement Division, using methods approved by the division. The primary investigating officer may administer the test if the person's conduct during the twenty-minute pre-test waiting period is videotaped pursuant to Section 56-5-2953(A)(2)(d). Blood samples must be obtained by physicians licensed by the State Board of Medical Examiners, registered nurses licensed by the State Board of Nursing, or other medical personnel trained to obtain these samples in a licensed medical facility. Blood samples must be obtained and handled in accordance with procedures approved by the division. The division shall administer the provisions of this subsection and shall promulgate regulations necessary to carry out its provisions. The costs of the tests administered at the direction of the officer must be paid from the general fund of the State.

The person tested or giving samples for testing may have a qualified person of his choice conduct additional tests at the person's expense and must be notified in writing of that right. A person's request or failure to request additional blood tests is not admissible against the person in any proceeding. The failure or inability of the person tested to obtain additional tests does not preclude the admission of evidence relating to the tests or samples taken at the direction of the officer. The officer must provide affirmative assistance to the person to contact a qualified person to conduct and obtain additional tests. Affirmative assistance shall, at a minimum, include providing transportation for the person to the nearest medical facility which provides blood tests to determine a person's alcohol concentration. If the medical facility obtains the blood sample but refuses or fails to test the blood to determine the person's alcohol concentration, SLED must test the blood and provide the result to the person and to the officer. Failure to provide affirmative assistance upon request to obtain additional tests bars the admissibility of the breath test result in any judicial or administrative proceeding.

(E)     A qualified person and his employer who obtain samples or administer the tests or assist in obtaining samples or administering of tests at the direction of the primary investigating officer are immune from civil and criminal liability unless the obtaining of samples or the administering of tests is performed in a negligent, reckless, or fraudulent manner. A person may not be required by the officer ordering the tests to obtain or take any sample of blood or urine.

(F)     If a person refuses upon the request of the primary investigating officer to submit to chemical tests as provided in subsection (C), the department must suspend his license, permit, or any nonresident operating privilege, or deny the issuance of a license or permit to him for:

(1)     six months; or

(2)     one year if the person, within the five years preceding the violation of this section, has been previously convicted of violating Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 or any other law of this State or another state that prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or another drug or has had a previous suspension imposed pursuant to Section 56-1-286, 56-5-2950, or 56-5-2951.

(G)     If a person submits to a chemical test and the test result indicates an alcohol concentration of two one-hundredths of one percent or more, the department must suspend his license, permit, or any nonresident operating privilege, or deny the issuance of a license or permit to him for:

(1)     three months; or

(2)     six months if the person, within the five years preceding the violation of this section, has been previously convicted of violating Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 or any other law of this State or another state that prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug or has had a previous suspension imposed pursuant to Section 56-1-286, 56-5-2950, or 56-5-2951.

(H)     A test may not be administered or samples taken unless the person has been informed in writing that:

(1)     he does not have to take the test or give the samples, but that his privilege to drive must be suspended or denied for at least six months if he refuses to submit to the tests and that his refusal may be used against him in court;

(2)     his privilege to drive must be suspended for at least three months if he takes the test or gives the samples and has an alcohol concentration of two one-hundredths of one percent or more;

(3)     he has the right to have a qualified person of his own choosing conduct additional independent tests at his expense;

(4)     he has the right to request an administrative hearing within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension; and

(5)     he must enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension.

The primary investigating officer must notify promptly the department of the refusal of a person to submit to a test requested pursuant to this section as well as the test result of any person who submits to a test pursuant to this section and registers an alcohol concentration of two one-hundredths of one percent or more. The notification must be in a manner prescribed by the department.

(I)     If the test registers an alcohol concentration of two one-hundredths of one percent or more or if the person refuses to be tested, the primary investigating officer must issue a notice of suspension, and the suspension is effective beginning on the date of the alleged violation of this section. The person, within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension, must enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program pursuant to Section 56-5-2990. If the person does not enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program within ten days, the suspension remains in effect, a temporary alcohol restricted license must not be issued, and an administrative hearing may not be requested. If the person drives during the period of suspension without a temporary alcohol restricted license, the person must be penalized for driving while his license is suspended pursuant to Section 56-1-460.

(J) Within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension the person may:

(1)     obtain a temporary alcohol restricted license by filing with the department a form after enrolling in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program. A thirty-dollar fee must be assessed for obtaining a temporary alcohol restricted license. Twenty-five dollars of the fee must be retained by the department for supplying and maintaining all necessary vehicle videotaping equipment. The remaining five dollars must be retained by the department for administrative costs associated with the issuance of the temporary alcohol restricted licenses. The temporary alcohol restricted license allows the person to drive without any restrictive conditions pending the outcome of the administrative hearing provided for in this section, or the final decision or disposition of the matter; and

(2)     request an administrative hearing.

At the administrative hearing if:

(a)     the suspension is upheld, the person's driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege must be suspended or the person must be denied the issuance of a license or permit for the remainder of the suspension periods provided for in subsections (F) and (G);

(b)     the suspension is overturned, the person shall have his driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege reinstated and is not required to complete the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program in which he is enrolled. Any costs paid by the person to the certified Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program pursuant to Section 56-5-2990 must be refunded.

(K)     The periods of suspension provided for in subsections (F) and (G) begin on the day the notice of suspension is issued, or at the expiration of any other suspensions, and continue until the person applies for a temporary alcohol restricted license and requests an administrative hearing.

(L)     If a person does not request an administrative hearing, he shall have waived his right to the hearing and his suspension must not be stayed but shall continue for the periods provided for in subsections (F) and (G).     (M)     The notice of suspension shall advise the person of the requirement to enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program and of his right to obtain a temporary alcohol restricted driver's license and to request an administrative hearing. The notice of suspension also shall advise the person that, if he does not enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program and does not request an administrative hearing within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension, he shall have waived his right to the administrative hearing, and the suspension continues for the periods provided for in subsections (F) and (G).

(N)     An administrative hearing must be held within ten days after the request for the hearing is received by the department. However, upon a showing of exigent circumstances by either party, a continuance may be granted not to exceed thirty days. The scope of the hearing is limited to whether the person:

(1)     was lawfully arrested or detained;

(2)     was advised in writing of the rights enumerated in subsection (H);

(3)     refused to submit to a test pursuant to this section; or

(4)     consented to taking a test pursuant to this section, and the:

(a)     reported alcohol concentration at the time of testing was two one-hundredths of one percent or more;

(b)     individual who administered the test or took samples was qualified pursuant to this section;

(c)     test administered and samples taken were conducted pursuant to this section and division procedures; and

(d)     the machine was operating properly.

Nothing in this section prohibits the introduction of evidence at the administrative hearing on the issue of the accuracy of the breath test result.

A written order must be issued to the person upholding the suspension of the person's license, permit, or nonresident's operating privilege, or denying the issuance of a license or permit within thirty days after the conclusion of the administrative hearing. If the suspension is upheld, the person must receive credit for the number of days his license was suspended before he received a temporary alcohol restricted license and requested the administrative hearing.

(O)     An administrative hearing is a contested proceeding under the Administrative Procedures Act, and a person has a right to judicial review pursuant to that act. The filing of a petition for review shall stay the suspension until a final decision is issued.

(P)     A person who is unconscious or otherwise in a condition rendering him incapable of refusal is considered to be informed and not to have withdrawn the consent provided for in subsection (B) of this section.

(Q)     When a nonresident's privilege to drive a motor vehicle in this State has been suspended under the procedures of this section, the department shall give written notice of the action taken to the motor vehicle administrator of the state of the person's residence and of any state in which he has a license or permit.

(R)     A person required to submit to a test must be provided with a written report including the time of arrest, the time of the tests, and the results of the tests before any proceeding in which the results of the tests are used as evidence. A person who obtains additional tests shall furnish a copy of the time, method, and results of any additional tests to the officer before any trial, hearing, or other proceeding in which the person attempts to use the results of the additional tests as evidence.

(S)     A person whose driver's license or permit is suspended under this section is not required to file proof of financial responsibility.

(T)     The department shall administer the provisions of this section, not including subsection (D), and shall promulgate regulations necessary to carry out its provisions.

(U)     Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no suspension imposed pursuant to this section is counted as a demerit or result in any insurance penalty for automobile insurance purposes if at the time he was stopped, the person whose license is suspended had an alcohol concentration that was less than eight one-hundredths of one percent."

SECTION     3.     Section 56-1-2030 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 149 of 1993, is further amended to read:

"Section 56-1-2030.     As used in this article:

(1)     'Alcohol' means a substance containing any form of alcohol including, but not limited to, ethanol, methanol, propanol, and isopropanol.

(2)     'Alcohol concentration' means:

(a)     the number of grams of alcohol for each one hundred milliliters of blood; or

(b)     as determined by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for other bodily fluids.

(3)     'Commercial driver driver's license' means a license issued in accordance with the requirements of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (Title XII of Public Law 99-570) to an individual which authorizes the individual to drive a class of commercial motor vehicle.

(4)(2)     'Commercial Driver Driver's License Information System' means the information system established pursuant to the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 to serve as a clearinghouse for locating information related to the licensing and identification of commercial motor vehicle drivers.

(5)(3)     'Commercial driver driver's instruction permit' means a permit issued pursuant to Section 56-1-2080(D) of this article.

(6)(4)     'Commercial motor vehicle' means a motor vehicle designed or used to transport passengers or property if the vehicle:

(a)     the vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating of twenty-six thousand one or more pounds;

(b)     the vehicle is designed to transport sixteen or more persons, including the driver; or

(c)     the vehicle is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded in accordance with 49 C.F.R. part 172, subpart F.

(7)(5)     'CMVSA' means the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (Title XII of Public Law 99-570).

(8)(6)     'Controlled substance' means a substance so classified under Section 102(6) of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802(6)) listed on Schedules I through V of 21 C.F.R. part 1308, as revised from time to time.

(9)(7)     'Conviction' means an unvacated adjudication of guilty, or a determination that a person has violated or failed to comply with the law in a court of original jurisdiction or an authorized administrative tribunal, an unvacated forfeiture of bail or collateral deposited to secure the person's appearance in court, the payment of a fine or court cost, or violation of a condition of release without bail, regardless of whether or not the penalty is rebated, suspended, or probated.

(10)(8)     'Disqualification' means a withdrawal of the privilege to drive a commercial motor vehicle.

(11)(9)     'Drive' means to drive, operate, or be in physical control of a motor vehicle.

(12)(10)     'Driver' means a person who drives a commercial motor vehicle or who is required to hold a commercial driver driver's license.

(13)(11)     'Driver Driver's license' means a license issued to an individual which authorizes the individual to drive a motor vehicle.

(14)(12)     'Employer' means a person, including the United States, a state, or a political subdivision of a state who owns or leases a commercial motor vehicle or assigns a person to drive a commercial motor vehicle.

(15)(13)     'Endorsement' means a special authorization to drive certain types of vehicles or to transport certain types of property or a certain number of passengers.

(16)(14)     'Felony' means an offense under state or federal law that is punishable by death or imprisonment for more than one year.

(17)(15)     'Foreign jurisdiction' means a jurisdiction other than a state of the United States.

(18)(16)     'Gross vehicle weight rating' means the actual weight or the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum loaded weight of a single or a combination vehicle or the registered gross weight, whichever is greater. The gross vehicle weight rating of a combination vehicle (commonly referred to as the 'gross combination weight rating') is the gross vehicle weight rating of the power unit plus the gross vehicle weight rating of a towed unit.

(19)(17)     'Hazardous materials' has the meaning as that found in Section 103 of the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (49 U.S.C. 1801, et seq.).

(20)(18)     'Motor vehicle' means every a vehicle which is self-propelled and every a vehicle which is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires but not operated upon rails, except a vehicle moved solely by human power and motorized wheelchairs.

(21)(19)     'Out of service order' means a temporary prohibition against driving a commercial motor vehicle.

(22)(20)     'Recreational vehicle' means a self-propelled or towed vehicle that is equipped to serve as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel purposes and is used solely as a family/personal conveyance.

(23)(21)     'Restriction' means a prohibition against driving certain types of vehicles or a requirement that the driver comply with certain conditions when driving a motor vehicle.

(24)(22)     'Serious traffic violation' means a conviction when operating a commercial motor vehicle of:

(a)     excessive speeding, involving a single charge for a speed fifteen miles an hour or more above the speed limit;

(b)     reckless driving, including charges of driving a commercial motor vehicle in a wilful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property;

(c)     improper or erratic traffic lane changes;

(d)     following the vehicle ahead too closely; or

(e)     a violation of a state or local law related to motor vehicle traffic control, other than a parking violation, arising in connection with an accident or collision resulting in death or serious bodily injury to a person.

(25)(23)     'State' means a state or territory of the United States and the District of Columbia and the federal government and a province or territory of Canada.

(26)(24)     'Tank vehicle' means a vehicle that is designed to transport a liquid or gaseous material within a tank that either is attached permanently or temporarily to the vehicle and which has a capacity of one thousand gallons or more.

(27)(25)     'United States' means the fifty states and the District of Columbia.

(28)(26)     'Farm related vehicle' means a vehicle used:

(a)     in custom harvester operations,;

(b)     in livestock feeding operations,; or

(c)     by an agri-chemical business or a company which hauls agri-chemical products to a farm.

(29)(27)     'Seasonal restricted commercial driver's license' means a commercial driver's license issued under the authority of the waiver promulgated by the Federal Department of Transportation (57 Federal Register 13650) by the department to an individual who has not passed the knowledge or skill test required of other commercial driver's license holders. This license authorizes operation of a commercial motor vehicle only on a seasonal basis, stated on the license, by a seasonal employee of a custom harvester, livestock feeder, agri-chemical operation, and company hauling agri-chemical products to a farm within one hundred fifty miles of the place of business."

SECTION     4.     Section 56-5-2930 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 56-5-2930.     It is unlawful for any a person who is a habitual user of narcotic drugs or any person who is under the influence of intoxicating liquors, narcotic drugs, barbiturates, paraldehydes or drugs, herbs or any other substance of like character, whether synthetic or natural, to drive any a motor vehicle within this State while under the:

(1)     influence of alcohol to the extent that the person's faculties to drive are materially and appreciably impaired;

(2)     influence of any other drug or a combination of other drugs or substances which cause impairment to the extent that the person's faculties to drive are materially and appreciably impaired; or

(3)     combined influence of alcohol and any other drug or drugs, or substances which cause impairment to the extent that the person's faculties to drive are materially and appreciably impaired.

For purposes of this section 'drug' means illicit or licit drug, a combination of licit or illicit drugs, a combination of alcohol and an illicit drug, or a combination of alcohol and a licit drug."

SECTION     5.     Section 56-5-2940(1) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(1) By a fine of two three hundred dollars or imprisonment for not less than forty-eight hours nor more than thirty days, for the first offense. However, in lieu of the forty-eight hour minimum imprisonment the court may provide for forty-eight hours of public service employment. The minimum forty-eight hour imprisonment or public service employment must be served at a time when the person is off from work and does not interfere with his regular employment under terms and conditions as the court considers proper. However, the court may not compel an offender to perform public service employment in lieu of the minimum sentence."

SECTION     6.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 56-5-2946.     Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person must submit to either one or a combination of chemical tests of his breath, blood, or urine for the purpose of determining the presence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of alcohol and drugs if there is probable cause to believe that the person violated or is under arrest for a violation of Section 56-5-2945.

The tests must be administered at the direction of a law enforcement officer who has probable cause to believe that the person violated or is under arrest for a violation of Section 56-5-2945. The administration of one test does not preclude the administration of other tests. The resistance, obstruction, or opposition to testing pursuant to this section is evidence admissible at the trial of the offense which precipitated the requirement for testing. A person who is tested or gives samples for testing may have a qualified person of his choice conduct additional tests at his expense and must be notified of that right. A person's request or failure to request additional blood or urine tests is not admissible against the person in the criminal trial.

The provisions of Section 56-5-2950, relating to the administration of tests to determine a person's alcohol concentration, additional tests at the person's expense, the availability of other evidence on the question of whether or not the person was under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them, availability of test information to the person or his attorney, and the liability of medical institutions and persons administering the tests are applicable to this section and also extend to the officer requesting the test, the State or its political subdivisions, or governmental agency, or entity which employs the officer making the request, and the agency, institution, or employer, either governmental or private, of persons administering the tests. Notwithstanding any other provision of state law pertaining to confidentiality of hospital records or other medical records, information regarding tests performed pursuant to this section must be released, upon subpoena, to a court, prosecuting attorney, defense attorney, or law enforcement officer in connection with an alleged violation of Section 56-5-2945."

SECTION     7.     Section 56-5-2950 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 497 of 1994, is further amended to read:

"Section 56-5-2950.     (a) A person who operates drives a motor vehicle in this State is considered to have given consent to chemical tests of his breath, blood, or urine for the purpose of determining the presence of alcohol or drugs or the combination of alcohol and drugs if arrested for an offense arising out of acts alleged to have been committed while the person was operating driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them. A breath test must be administered at the direction of a law enforcement officer who has apprehended arrested a person for operating driving a motor vehicle in this State while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them. At the direction of the arresting officer, the person first must be offered a breath test to determine the person's alcohol concentration of his blood. If the person is physically unable to provide an acceptable breath sample because he has an injured mouth, or is unconscious, or dead, or for another any other reason considered acceptable by the licensed medical personnel, the arresting officer may request a blood sample may to be taken. If the officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person is under the influence of drugs other than alcohol, the officer may order that a urine sample be taken for testing. If the breathalyzer reading alcohol concentration is ten eight one-hundredths of one percent by weight of alcohol in the person's blood or above, the officer may not require additional tests of the person as provided in this chapter. The breath test must be administered by a person trained and certified by SLED, using methods approved by SLED. The arresting officer may not administer the tests if the person's conduct during the twenty-minute pre-test waiting period is videotaped pursuant to Section 56-5-2953(A)(2)(d). Before the breath test is administered, an eight one-hundredths of one percent simulator test must be performed and the result must reflect a reading between 0.076 percent and 0.084 percent. Blood and urine samples must be taken obtained by physicians licensed by the State Board of Medical Examiners, registered nurses licensed by the State Board of Nursing, and other medical personnel trained to take obtain the samples in a licensed medical facility. Blood samples or and urine samples must be obtained and handled in accordance with procedures approved by SLED.

No tests may be administered or samples taken obtained unless the person has been informed in writing that:

(1)     he does not have to take the test or give the samples but that his privilege to drive must be suspended or denied for at least ninety days if he refuses to submit to the tests and that his refusal may be used against him in court;

(2)     his privilege to drive must be suspended for at least thirty days if he takes the tests or gives the samples and has an alcohol concentration of fifteen one-hundredths of one percent or more;

(3)     he has the right to have a qualified person of his own choosing conduct additional independent tests at his expense;

(4)     he has the right to request an administrative hearing within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension; and

(5)     he must enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension.

A hospital, physician, qualified technician, chemist, or registered nurse who takes obtains the samples or conducts the test or participates in the process of taking obtaining the samples or conducting the test in accordance with this section is not subject to a cause of action for assault, battery, or another cause contending that the drawing of blood or taking samples at the request of the arrested person or a law enforcement officer was wrongful. This release from liability does not reduce the standard of medical care required of the person taking obtaining the samples or conducting the test. This qualified release also applies to the employer of the person who conducts the test or takes obtains the samples.

The person tested or giving samples for testing may have a qualified person of his own choosing conduct additional tests at his expense and must be notified in writing of that right. A person's failure to request additional blood or urine tests is not admissible against the person in the criminal trial. The failure or inability of the person tested to obtain additional tests does not preclude the admission of evidence relating to the tests or samples taken obtained at the direction of the law enforcement officer.

The arresting officer shall must provide reasonable affirmative assistance to the person to contact a qualified person to conduct and obtain additional tests. Affirmative assistance, at a minimum, includes providing transportation for the person to the nearest medical facility which provides blood tests to determine a person's alcohol concentration. If the medical facility obtains the blood sample but refuses or fails to test the blood sample to determine the person's alcohol concentration, SLED must test the blood sample and provide the result to the person and to the arresting officer. Failure to provide affirmative assistance upon request to obtain additional tests bars the admissibility of the breath test result in any judicial or administrative proceeding.

SLED shall administer the provisions of this subsection and may shall make regulations necessary to carry out its provisions. The costs of the tests administered at the direction of the law enforcement officer must be paid from the general fund of the State.

A qualified person who obtains samples or administers the tests or assists in obtaining samples or the administration of tests at the direction of a law enforcement officer is released from civil and criminal liability unless the obtaining of samples or tests is performed in a negligent, reckless, or fraudulent manner. No person may be required by the arresting officer, or by another law enforcement officer, to obtain or take any sample of blood or urine.

(b)     In any the criminal prosecution for the a violation of Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 relating to operating driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them, the amount of alcohol concentration in the person's blood at the time of the alleged violation test, as shown by chemical analysis of the person's breath or other body fluids, gives rise to the following inferences:

(1)     If there the alcohol concentration was at that time five one-hundredths of one percent or less by weight of alcohol in the person's blood, it is conclusively presumed that the person was not under the influence of alcohol.

(2)     If there the alcohol concentration was at that time in excess of five one-hundredths of one percent but less than ten eight one-hundredths of one percent by weight of alcohol in the person's blood, that fact does not give rise to any inference that the person was or was not under the influence of alcohol, but that fact may be considered with other competent evidence in determining the guilt or innocence of the person.

(3)     If there the alcohol concentration was at that time ten eight one-hundredths of one percent or more by weight of alcohol in the person's blood, it may be inferred that the person was under the influence of alcohol.

The provisions of this section must not be construed as limiting the introduction of any other competent evidence bearing upon the question of whether or not the person was under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them.

(c)     Any A person who is unconscious or otherwise in a condition rendering him incapable of refusal is considered to be informed and not to have withdrawn the consent provided by subsection (a) of this section.

(d)     If a person under arrest refuses, upon the request of a law enforcement officer, to submit to chemical tests as provided in subsection (a) of this section, none may be given, but the department, on the basis of a report of the law enforcement officer that the arrested person was operating a motor vehicle in this State while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them and that the person had refused to submit to the tests shall suspend his license or permit to drive, or any nonresident operating privilege for a period of ninety days. If the person is a resident without a license or permit to operate a motor vehicle in this State, the department shall deny to the person the issuance of a license or permit for a period of ninety days after the date of the alleged violation. The ninety-day period of suspension begins with the day after the date of the notice required to be given, unless a hearing is requested as provided, in which case the ninety-day period begins with the day after the date of the order sustaining the suspension or denial of issuance. The report of the arresting officer must include what grounds he had for believing that the arrested person had been operating a motor vehicle in this State while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them. If the arrested person took the chemical breath test but refused to provide a blood or urine sample, the report of the arresting officer must include what were his grounds for believing that the arrested person was under the influence of drugs other than alcohol. If a person who refuses, upon the request of a law enforcement officer, to submit to chemical tests as provided in subsection (a) of this section, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to, or forfeits bond for a first offense violation of Section 56-5-2930, within thirty days of arrest, the period of the suspension of driving privileges under this section must be canceled and any suspension of driving privileges under Section 56-5-2990 for a first conviction may not exceed six months.

(e)     Upon suspending the license or permit to drive or nonresident operating privilege of any person, or upon determining that the issuance of a license or permit must be denied to the person, as hereinbefore in this section directed, the department shall notify immediately the person in writing and, upon his request, shall afford him an opportunity for a hearing in accordance with the State Administrative Procedures Act, except that the scope of the hearing for the purposes of this section must be limited to the issues of whether the person was placed under arrest, whether the person had been informed that he did not have to take the test but that his privilege to drive would be suspended or denied if he refused to submit to the test, and whether he refused to submit to the test upon request of the officer. The department shall order that the suspension or determination that there should be a denial of issuance either be rescinded or sustained.

(f)     When it is finally determined under the procedures of this section that a nonresident's privilege to operate a motor vehicle in this State has been suspended, the department shall give information in writing of the action taken to the motor vehicle administrator of the state of the person's residence and of any state in which he has a license.

(g)(d)     Any A person required to submit to tests by the arresting law enforcement officer must be provided with a written report including the time of arrest, the time of the tests, and the results of the tests prior to before any trial or other proceedings proceeding in which the results of the tests are used as evidence. Any A person administering a test at the request of the defendant shall record in writing who obtains additional tests must furnish a copy of the time, method, and results of the any test and promptly furnish a copy to the arresting officer prior to before any trial, hearing, or other proceedings proceeding in which the person attempts to use the results of the additional test tests are used as evidence.

(h)     Any person whose driver's license or permit is suspended for failure to take the tests required by this section and who is not convicted of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of them is not required to file proof of insurance under the Financial Responsibility Act, and no record of he suspension may be shown on any of his records."

SECTION     8.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 56-5-2951.     (A)     The Department of Public Safety shall suspend the driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege of or deny the issuance of a license or permit to a person who drives a motor vehicle and refuses to submit to a test provided for in Section 56-5-2950 or has an alcohol concentration of fifteen one-hundredths of one percent or more. The arresting officer shall issue a notice of suspension which is effective beginning on the date of the alleged violation of Section 56-5-2930 or Section 56-5-2945.

(B)     If the test registers an alcohol concentration of eight one-hundredths of one percent or more, the person, within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension, must enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program pursuant to Section 56-5-2990.

(C)     If the person does not enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program within ten days, the suspension remains in effect, a temporary alcohol restricted license must not be issued, and an administrative hearing may not be requested. If the person drives during the period of suspension without a temporary alcohol restricted license, the person must be penalized for driving while his license is suspended pursuant to Section 56-1-460.

(D)     Within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension the person may:

(1)     obtain a temporary alcohol restricted license by filing with the department a form after enrolling in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program. A thirty-dollar fee must be assessed for obtaining a temporary alcohol restricted license. Twenty-five dollars of the fee must be retained by the department for supplying and maintaining all necessary vehicle videotaping equipment. The remaining five dollars must be retained by the department for administrative costs associated with the issuance of the temporary alcohol restricted licenses. The temporary alcohol restricted license allows the person to drive without any restrictive conditions pending the outcome of the administrative hearing provided for in subsection (H), or the final decision or disposition of the matter; and

(2)     request an administrative hearing.

At the administrative hearing if:

(a)     the suspension is upheld, the person's driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege must be suspended or the person must be denied the issuance of a license or permit for the remainder of the suspension period provided for in subsection (K);

(b)     the suspension is overturned, the person shall have his driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege reinstated and is not required to complete the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program in which he is enrolled. Any costs paid by the person to the certified Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program pursuant to Section 56-5-2990 must be refunded.

The provisions of this subsection do not affect the trial for a violation of Section 56-5-2930 or Section 56-5-2945.

(E)     The period of suspension provided for in subsection (K) begins on the day the notice of suspension is issued, or at the expiration of any other suspensions, and continues until the person applies for a temporary alcohol restricted license and requests an administrative hearing.

(F)     If a person does not request an administrative hearing, he shall have waived his right to the hearing and his suspension must not be stayed but continues for the period provided for in subsection (K).

(G)     The notice of suspension shall advise the person of the requirement to enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program and of his right to obtain a temporary alcohol restricted driver's license and request an administrative hearing. The notice of suspension also shall advise the person that, if he does not request an administrative hearing within ten days of the issuance of the notice of suspension, he shall have waived his right to the administrative hearing, and the suspension continues for the period provided for in subsection (K).

(H)     An administrative hearing must be held within ten days after the request for the hearing is received by the department. However, upon a showing of exigent circumstances by either party, a continuance may be granted not to exceed thirty days. The scope of the hearing must be limited to whether the person:

(1)     was lawfully arrested or detained;

(2)     was advised in writing of the rights enumerated in Section 56-5-2950;

(3)     refused to submit to a test pursuant to Section 56-5-2950; or

(4)     consented to taking a test pursuant to Section 56-5-2950, and the:

(a)     reported alcohol concentration at the time of testing was fifteen one-hundredths of one percent or more;

(b)     individual who administered the test or took samples was qualified pursuant to Section 56-5-2950;

(c)     tests administered and samples obtained were conducted pursuant to Section 56-5-2950 and division procedures; and

(d)     the machine was working properly.

Nothing in this section prohibits the introduction of evidence at the administrative hearing on the issue of the accuracy of the breath test result.

A written order must be issued to the person upholding the suspension of the person's license, permit, or nonresident's operating privilege, or denying the issuance of a license or permit within thirty days after the conclusion of the administrative hearing. If the suspension is upheld, the person must receive credit for the number of days his license was suspended before he received a temporary alcohol restricted license and requested the administrative hearing.

(I)     An administrative hearing is a contested proceeding under the Administrative Procedures Act, and a person has a right to judicial review pursuant to that act. The filing of a petition for review shall stay the suspension until a final decision is issued.

(J)(1)     If the suspension is upheld at the administrative hearing, the person may apply for a special restricted driver's license if he is employed or enrolled in a college or university. The special restricted license shall permit him to drive only to and from work and his place of education and in the course of his employment or education during the period of suspension. The department may issue the special restricted driver's license only upon showing by the individual that he is employed or enrolled in a college or university, that he lives further than one mile from his place of employment or education, and that there is no adequate public transportation between his residence and his place of employment or his place of education.

(2)     If the department issues a special restricted driver's license, it shall designate reasonable restrictions on the times during which and routes on which the individual may operate a motor vehicle. A change in the employment hours, place of employment, status as a student, or residence must be reported immediately to the department by the licensee.

(3)     The fee for each special restricted driver's license, including a reissue caused by changes in the place and hours of employment, education, or residence is twenty dollars.

(4)     The operation of a motor vehicle outside the time limits and route imposed by a special restricted license by the person issued that license is a violation of Section 56-1-460.

(K)(1)     The period of a driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege suspension for, or denial of issuance of a license or permit to an arrested person who has no previous convictions for violating Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 or any other law of this State or another state that prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or another drug within the ten years preceding a violation of this section, and who has had no previous suspension imposed pursuant to Section 56-5-2950 or 56-5-2951 within the ten years preceding a violation of this section is:

(a)     ninety days for a person who refuses to submit to a test pursuant to Section 56-5-2950; or

(b)     thirty days for a person who takes a test pursuant to Section 56-5-2950 and has an alcohol concentration of fifteen one-hundredths of one percent or more.

(2)     The period of a driver's license, permit, or nonresident operating privilege suspension for, or denial of issuance of a license or permit to an arrested person who has been convicted previously for violating Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 or any other law of this State or another state that prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug within the ten years preceding a violation of this section, or who has had a previous suspension imposed pursuant to Section 56-5-2950 or 56-5-2951 within the ten years preceding a violation of this section is one hundred eighty days if he refuses to submit to a test pursuant to Section 56-5-2950 or sixty days if he takes a test pursuant to Section 56-5-2950 and has an alcohol concentration of fifteen one-hundredths of one percent or more.

(L)     When a nonresident's privilege to drive a motor vehicle in this State has been suspended under the provisions of this section, the department must give written notice of the action taken to the motor vehicle administrator of the state of the person's residence and of any state in which he has a license or permit.

(M)     The department shall not suspend the privilege to drive of a person under the age of twenty-one pursuant to Section 56-1-286 if the person's privilege to drive has been suspended under this section arising from the same incident.

(N)     A person whose driver's license or permit is suspended pursuant to this section is not required to file proof of financial responsibility.

(O)     An insurer may not increase premiums on or add surcharges to the automobile insurance of a person charged with a violation of Sections 56-1-286, 56-5-2930, or 56-5-2945 or any other law of this State or another state that prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug unless he is convicted of the violation.

(P)     The department shall administer the provisions of this section and shall promulgate regulations necessary to carry out its provisions."

SECTION     9.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 56-5-2953.     (A) A person who violates Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 shall have his conduct at the incident site and the breath test site videotaped.

(1)     The videotaping at the incident site must:

(a)     begin not later than the activation of the officer's blue lights and conclude after the arrest of the person for a violation of Section 56-5-2930 or a probable cause determination that the person violated Section 56-5-2945; and

(b)     include the person being advised of his Miranda rights, if required by state or federal law, before any field sobriety tests are administered, if the tests are administered.

(2)     The videotaping at the breath site:

(a)     must be completed within three hours of the person's arrest for a violation of Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 or a probable cause determination that the person violated Section 56-5-2945, unless compliance is not possible because the person needs emergency medical treatment considered necessary by licensed medical personnel;

(b)     shall include the reading of Miranda rights, if required by state or federal law, the entire breath test procedure, the person being informed that he is being videotaped, and that he has the right to refuse the test;

(c)     shall include the person taking or refusing the breath test and the actions of the breath test operator while conducting the test;

(d)     shall also include the person's conduct during the required twenty-minute pre-test waiting period, unless the officer submits a sworn affidavit certifying that it was physically impossible to videotape this waiting period. However, if the arresting officer administers the breath test, then the person's conduct during the twenty-minute pre-test waiting period must be videotaped.

The videotapes of the incident site and of the breath test site are admissible pursuant to the South Carolina Rules of Evidence in a criminal, administrative, or civil proceeding by any party to the action.

(B)     Nothing in this section may be construed as prohibiting the introduction of other evidence in the trial of a violation of Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945. Failure by the arresting officer to produce the videotapes required by this section is not alone a ground for dismissal of any charge made pursuant to Section 56-5-2930 or 56-5-2945 if the arresting officer submits a sworn affidavit certifying that the videotape equipment at the time of the arrest, probable cause determination, or breath test device was in an inoperable condition, stating reasonable efforts have been made to maintain the equipment in an operable condition, and certifying that there was no other operable breath test facility available in the county or, in the alternative, submits a sworn affidavit certifying that it was physically impossible to produce the videotape because the person needed emergency medical treatment, or exigent circumstances existed. Further, in circumstances including, but not limited to, road blocks, traffic accident investigations, and citizens' arrests, where an arrest has been made and the videotaping equipment has not been activated by blue lights, the failure by the arresting officer to produce the videotapes required by this section is not alone a ground for dismissal. However, as soon as videotaping is practicable in these circumstances, videotaping should begin and conform with the provisions of this section. Nothing in this section prohibits the court from considering any other valid reason for the failure to produce the videotape based upon the totality of the circumstances, nor do the provisions of this section prohibit the person from offering evidence relating to the arresting law enforcement officer's failure to produce the videotape.

(C)     A videotape must not be disposed of in any manner except for its transfer to a master tape for consolidation purposes until the results of any legal proceeding in which it may be involved finally are determined.

(D)     SLED is responsible for purchasing, maintaining, and supplying all necessary videotaping equipment for use at the breath test sites. SLED also is responsible for monitoring all breath test sites to ensure the proper maintenance of videotaping equipment. The Department of Public Safety is responsible for purchasing, maintaining, and supplying all videotaping equipment for use in all law enforcement vehicles used for traffic enforcement. The Department of Public Safety also is responsible for monitoring all law enforcement vehicles used for traffic enforcement to ensure proper maintenance of videotaping equipment.

(E)     Beginning one month from the effective date of this act, all of the funds received in accordance with Section 14-1-208(C)(9) must be expended by SLED to equip all breath test sites with videotaping devices and supplies. Once all breath test sites have been equipped fully with videotaping devices and supplies, eighty-seven and one-half (87.5) percent of the funds received in accordance with Section 14-1-208(C)(9) must be expended by the Department of Public Safety to purchase, maintain, and supply videotaping equipment for vehicles used for traffic enforcement. The remaining twelve and one-half (12.5) percent of the funds received in accordance with Section 14-1-208(C)(9) must be expended by SLED to purchase, maintain, and supply videotaping equipment for the breath test sites. Funds must be distributed by the State Treasurer to the Department of Public Safety and SLED on a monthly basis. The Department of Public Safety and SLED are authorized to carry forward any unexpended funds received in accordance with Section 14-1-208(C)(9) as of June thirtieth of each year and to expend these carried forward funds for the purchase, maintenance, and supply of videotaping equipment. The Department of Public Safety and SLED shall report the revenue received under this section and the expenditures for which the revenue was used as required in the department's and SLED's annual appropriation request to the General Assembly.

(F)     The Department of Public Safety and SLED shall promulgate regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this section."

SECTION     10.     Section 56-5-2990 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 258 of 1998, is further amended to read:

"Section 56-5-2990.     The department shall suspend the driver's license of a person who is convicted, receives sentence upon a plea of guilty or of nolo contendere, or forfeits bail posted for the a violation of Section 56-5-2930 or for the violation of another law or ordinance of this State or of a municipality of this State that prohibits a person from operating driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, drugs, or narcotics for six months for the first conviction, plea of guilty or of nolo contendere, or forfeiture of bail, ; one year for the second conviction, plea of guilty or of nolo contendere, or forfeiture of bail,; two years for the third offense, conviction, plea of guilty or of nolo contendere, or forfeiture of bail; and a permanent revocation of the driver's license for the fourth and or subsequent offenses conviction, plea of guilty or of nolo contendere, or forfeiture of bail. Only those violations which occurred within ten years including and immediately preceding the date of the last violation shall constitute prior violations within the meaning of this section. However, if the third conviction occurs within five years from the date of the first offense, then the department shall suspend the driver's license for four years. A person whose license is revoked following conviction for a fourth offense as provided in this section is forever barred from being issued any license by the Department of Public Safety to operate a motor vehicle except as provided in Section 56-1-385.

Any person whose license is suspended under the provisions of this section, Section 56-1-286, or 56-5-2951 must be notified of suspension by the department of the suspension and of the requirement to be evaluated by enroll in and successfully complete an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program certified by the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services prior to reinstatement of the license. An assessment of the degree extent and kind nature of the alcohol and drug abuse problem, if any, of the applicant must be prepared and a plan of education or treatment, or both, must be developed based upon the assessment for the applicant. Entry into and successful completion of the services, if such the services are necessary, recommended in the plan of education or treatment, or both, developed for the applicant is a mandatory requirement of the restoration of driving privileges to the applicant. The applicant shall bear the cost of the services to be determined by the administering agency Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program and approved by the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services. The cost may not exceed seventy-five dollars for assessment, one hundred twenty-five dollars for education services, two hundred twenty-five dollars for treatment services, and three hundred dollars in total for any and all services. No applicant may be denied services due to an inability to pay. The applicant shall be terminated from the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program no later than six months after the date of program enrollment shall determine if the applicant has successfully completed services within six months of the date of enrollment or shall certify that the person is making satisfactory progress toward completion of the program. If the applicant has not successfully completed the services as directed by the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program by the end of the six-month period of enrollment within six months of enrollment, a hearing must be provided by the administering agency Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program and if further needed by whose decision is appealable to the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services. If the applicant is unsuccessful in the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program, the department may restore the privilege to operate drive a motor vehicle upon the recommendation of the Medical Advisory Board as utilized by the department if it determines public safety and welfare of the petitioner may not be endangered.

The department and the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services shall develop procedures necessary for the communication of information pertaining to relicensing or otherwise. Such These procedures must be consistent with the confidentiality laws of the State and the United States. Successful completion of education, treatment services, or both, for purposes of receiving a provisional driver's license as stipulated in Section 56-1-1330 may be substituted in lieu of services received under the authority of this section at the discretion of the applicant. If the driver's license of any person is suspended by authority of this section, no insurance company may refuse to issue insurance to cover the remaining members of his family, but the insurance company is not liable for any actions of the person whose license has been suspended or who has voluntarily turned his license in to the department."

SECTION     11.     A study committee is created to examine the effects of the marketing and sale of malt liquor in containers of more than one liter, to examine the state law relating to the requirements for the transportation, possession, and consumption of alcoholic liquors in minibottles, and to examine amendments to state law pertaining to alcoholic liquor by the drink. The committee shall consist of eleven voting members as follows:

(1)     four members from the Senate to be appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, at least one of whom must be a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and one of whom must be a member of the Senate Finance Committee;

(2)     four members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker of the House, at least one of whom must be a member of the House Judiciary Committee and one of whom must be a member of the House Ways and Means Committee;

(3)     three members to be appointed by the Governor.

In addition seven nonvoting members are to be appointed by the Governor as follows:

(1)     one member from the Department of Public Safety;

(2)     one member from the Department of Revenue;

(3)     one member chosen from a list of recommendations made by MADD;

(4)     one member from the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services;

(5)     one member from SLED;

(6)     one member chosen from a list of recommendations made by the Hospitality Association of South Carolina; and

(7)     one member chosen from a list of recommendations made by the South Carolina Council of Alcohol Authorities.

The voting members of the study committee shall elect a chairman and shall meet at times and places as the chairman determines to be necessary. The expenses of the legislative members of the study committee must be paid from the approved accounts of their respective bodies. The expenses of the gubernatorial appointees must be paid by the Governor's Office.

The committee must be staffed by personnel assigned by the Chairman of the Senate and House Judiciary Committees. The findings of the study committee as to the effects of the marketing and sale of malt liquor in containers of more than one liter shall be utilized by the General Assembly in formulating any change to the law before December 31, 1999. The committee shall report its findings to the General Assembly no later than the first day of the 1999 legislative session and upon this report is terminated.

SECTION     12.     Section 14-1-208 (A), (B), and (C) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 141 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"(A)     Beginning January 1, 1995, and continuously after that date, a person who is convicted of, or pleads guilty or nolo contendere to, or forfeits bond for an offense tried in municipal court must pay an amount equal to 64 74 percent of the fine imposed as an assessment. This assessment must be paid to the municipal clerk of court and deposited with the city treasurer for remittance to the State Treasurer. The assessment is based upon that portion of the fine that is not suspended, and assessments must not be waived, reduced, or suspended.

(B)     The city treasurer must remit 18.75 16.22 percent of the revenue generated by the assessment imposed in subsection (A) to the municipality to be used for the purposes set forth in subsection (D) and remit the balance of the assessment revenue to the State Treasurer on a monthly basis by the fifteenth day of each month and make reports on a form and in a manner prescribed by the State Treasurer. Assessments paid in installments must be remitted as received.

(C)     The State Treasurer shall deposit the assessments received as follows:

(1)     25.79 21.63 percent for programs established pursuant to Chapter 21 of Title 24 and the Shock Incarceration Program as provided in Article 13, Chapter 13 of Title 24;

(2)     25.5 21.39 percent to the Department of Public Safety program of training in the fields of law enforcement and criminal justice;

(3)     .67 .56 percent to the Department of Public Safety to defray the cost of erecting and maintaining the South Carolina Law Enforcement Hall of Fame. When funds collected pursuant to this item exceed the necessary costs and expenses of the Hall of Fame operation and maintenance as determined by the Department of Public Safety, the department may retain the surplus for use in its law enforcement training programs;

(4)     19.06 15.98 percent for the State Office of Victim Assistance;

(5)     6.97 5.84 percent to the general fund;

(6)     19.38 16.26 percent to the Office of Indigent Defense for the defense of indigents;

(7)     1.63 1.37 percent to the Department of Mental Health to be used exclusively for the treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts within the department's addiction center facilities;

(8)     1.0 .84 percent to the Attorney General's Office for a fund to provide support for counties involved in complex criminal litigation. For the purposes of this item, 'complex criminal litigation' means criminal cases in which the State is seeking the death penalty and has served notice as required by law upon the defendant's counsel and the county involved has expended more than one hundred thousand dollars for a particular case in direct support of operating the court of general sessions and for prosecution-related expenses. The Attorney General shall develop guidelines for determining what expenses are reimbursable from the fund and shall approve all disbursements from the fund. Funds must be paid to a county for all expenditures authorized for reimbursement under this item except for the first one hundred thousand dollars the county expended in satisfying the requirements for reimbursement from the fund; however, money disbursed from this fund must be disbursed on a 'first received, first paid' basis. When revenue in the fund reaches five hundred thousand dollars, all revenue in excess of five hundred thousand dollars must be credited to the general fund of the State. Unexpended revenue in the fund at the end of the fiscal year carries over and may be expended in the next fiscal year.;

(9)     16.13 percent for the programs established pursuant to Section 56-5-2953(E)."

SECTION     13. Section 56-5-6240(A) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 465 of 1992, is further amended to read:

"(A)     In addition to the penalties for persons convicted of a fourth or subsequent violation within the last five years of operating a motor vehicle while his license is canceled, suspended, or revoked (DUS), or a fourth third or subsequent violation within the last ten years of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs (DUI), the persons must have the motor vehicle they drove during this offense forfeited if the offender is the owner of record, or a resident of the household of the owner of record under the terms and conditions as provided in subsections (B) and (C) and must be confiscated by the arresting officer or other law enforcement officer of that agency at the time of arrest, which officer shall deliver it immediately to the sheriff or chief of police of the jurisdiction where the motor vehicle was seized or his authorized agent who by certified mail shall notify the registered owner of the confiscation within seventy-two hours. Upon notification of the confiscation, the registered owner has ten days to request a hearing before the presiding judge of the judicial circuit or his designated hearing officer within ten days from the date of receipt of the request. The vehicle must be returned to the owner of record if he can show by a preponderance of the evidence that (1) the use of the vehicle was not either expressly or impliedly authorized, or (2) the owner of record did not know that the driver had no valid license. Forfeiture of a vehicle is subordinate in priority to all valid liens.

The vehicle seized pursuant to this section may be returned to the owner upon petition to the court by the law enforcement agency seizing the vehicle if the criminal charge has not been disposed of within twelve months of the date of seizure. If the owner of the vehicle does not remove the vehicle from law enforcement's possession within ten days of service of the court order allowing the return, law enforcement may dispose of the vehicle as provided by Section 56-5-5640. The sheriff or chief of police in possession of the vehicle shall provide notice by certified mail of the confiscation to all lienholders of record within ten days of the confiscation."

SECTION     14.     All proceedings pending and all rights and liabilities existing, acquired, or accrued at the time this act takes effect are saved. The provisions of this act apply prospectively to crimes and offenses committed on or after the effective date of this act.

SECTION     15.     The State Law Enforcement Division must submit the BAC Datamaster to an independent facility with expertise in breath alcohol testing and software analysis, designated by the Chairmen of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees acting jointly, in order that the instrument may be tested to determine its accuracy and precision. SLED must submit the results of the tests to the General Assembly by January 1, 1999.

SECTION     16.     (A)     No holder of a retail permit issued pursuant to Title 61 which authorizes the sale of beer may sell or offer to sell any container of more than one liter of malt liquor. This provision does not apply to the sale of a keg or box of malt liquor or to alcohol labeled as beer or scotch liquor.

(B)     A person who violates the provisions of subsection (A) is subject to a civil penalty of not more than five hundred dollars for a first offense and not more than one thousand dollars for a second offense. In addition to a civil penalty, upon a third offense violation of subsection (A), a person shall have his license or permit revoked or suspended in accordance with Section 61-2-140. Each day of violation constitutes a separate offense.

SECTION     17.     If any provision of this act or the application thereof to any person is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the act which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application and to this end the provisions of this act are severable.

SECTION     18.     The provisions in Sections 56-5-2950 and 56-5-2951 pertaining to an alcohol concentration of eight one-hundredths of one percent or more take effect upon the ratification of an amendment to Section 1, Article VIII-A of the Constitution of South Carolina, 1895, relating to the sale of alcoholic liquors and beverages in sealed containers of two ounces or less; all other provisions in Sections 56-5-2950 and 56-5-2951 take effect upon approval by the Governor. The provisions in Section 56-5-2953(A), (B), and (C) take effect for each law enforcement vehicle used for traffic enforcement as soon as the law enforcement vehicle used for traffic enforcement is equipped with a videotaping device. The provisions in Section 56-5-2953(A), (B), and (C) take effect for each breath test site as soon as the breath test site is equipped with a videotaping device. The provisions in Section 56-5-2953(D) and (E) take effect upon approval by the Governor. The provisions in Section 56-5-2953(F) take effect one year after approval by the Governor. The Chief of SLED and the Director of the Department of Public Safety shall report to the General Assembly when all breath test sites and law enforcement vehicles used for traffic enforcement are equipped. SECTION 16 takes effect July 1, 2000, unless the General Assembly passes a resolution or bill related to the subject matter of the study committee established in SECTION 11 of this act. All remaining provisions take effect upon approval by the Governor./

Amend title to conform.

/s/Robert Wesley Hayes, Jr.       /s/Douglas "Doug" Jennings, Jr.
/s/Darrell Jackson                /s/J. Gary Simrill
/s/C. Bradley "Brad" Hutto        /s/J. Cordell Maddox
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

Rep. JENNINGS explained the Conference Report.

Rep. ALTMAN spoke against the Conference Report.

Rep. HARRISON moved to divide the question.

POINT OF ORDER

Rep. SHEHEEN raised a Point of Order that the motion to divide the question on the conference report to S. 174 was out of order.

Rep. HARRISON stated that the conference committee had the same power as a House committee in that the report could be accepted or rejected, in whole or in part, once it had been reported out of committee.

SPEAKER WILKINS stated that the conference report had been adopted by the Senate and the conference committee was not to meet again. He referred to a ruling on a Point of Order raised on May 31, 1989, where a motion was made to recommit a free conference report to the free conference committee and at that particular time the Senate had already adopted the free conference committee report. The Speaker of the House at that time ruled that the free conference committee had been discharged because the free conference report had already been adopted by the Senate and therefore the free conference report could not be recommitted. He stated that the motion to divide the question was out of order and he sustained the Point of Order.

Reps. FLEMING and F. SMITH spoke against the Free Conference Report.

Rep. KNOTTS spoke in favor of the Free Conference Report.

The question then recurred to the adoption of the Free Conference Report.

Rep. KNOTTS demanded the yeas and nays, which were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 98; Nays 13

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Bailey                 Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Baxley
Boan                   Bowers                 Brown, G.
Brown, H.              Brown, J.              Brown, T.
Canty                  Carnell                Cato
Cave                   Chellis                Clyburn
Cooper                 Cotty                  Dantzler
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Emory                  Felder                 Fleming
Gamble                 Gourdine               Govan
Hamilton               Harrell                Harris
Harrison               Harvin                 Haskins
Hawkins                Hines, J.              Hinson
Howard                 Inabinett              Jennings
Keegan                 Kelley                 Kennedy
Kinon                  Kirsh                  Klauber
Knotts                 Koon                   Law
Leach                  Littlejohn             Lloyd
Loftis                 Maddox                 Martin
Mason                  McCraw                 McGee
McKay                  McLeod                 McMahand
McMaster               Meacham                Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Mullen                 Neal
Neilson                Pinckney               Quinn
Rhoad                  Rice                   Riser
Rodgers                Sandifer               Seithel
Sharpe                 Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, J.              Smith, R.
Spearman               Stille                 Stuart
Tripp                  Trotter                Vaughn
Webb                   Wilder                 Wilkes
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Woodrum
Young                  Young-Brickell

Total--98

Those who voted in the negative are:

Altman                 Bauer                  Beck
Campsen                Cromer                 Davenport
Lanford                Lee                    Limehouse
Mack                   McAbee                 Smith, F.
Stoddard

Total--13

So, the Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

S. 174--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

H. 4851--CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 4851 -- Rep. Boan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-4-330, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO A WITNESS APPEARING BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMPENSATION OR FEE OF THE WITNESS, OR THAT OF AN OFFICER SERVING PROCESS, BE PAID FROM INCOME TAX REVENUES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3370, RELATING TO A STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT IN CONNECTION WITH A WATER CONTROL SYSTEM, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE REQUIREMENTS IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR THE CREDIT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-4970, RELATING TO TIME FOR FILING OF TAX RETURN, SO AS TO ESTABLISH TIMES FOR FILING BY A FOREIGN CORPORATION WITHOUT A PLACE OF BUSINESS IN THE UNITED STATES AND BY ELECTRONIC FILING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-5550, RELATING TO INCOME TAX REFUNDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FEDERAL AND STATE REFUNDS ARE PAYABLE TO SURVIVING SPOUSE OF DECEASED TAXPAYER; TO AMEND SECTION 12-11-30, RELATING TO THE INCOME TAX REPLACING MOST OTHER TAXES AGAINST BANKS, SO AS TO CHANGE REFERENCES IN THE SECTION FROM "DOCUMENTARY STAMP TAX" TO "DEED RECORDING FEE"; TO AMEND SECTION 12-20-105, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO CORPORATION LICENSE FEES, SO AS TO ALLOW REDUCTION OF THE FEE BY CERTAIN INCOME TAX CREDITS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-21-2550, RELATING TO STAMP AND BUSINESS LICENSE TAXES, SO AS TO DELETE THE TEN PERCENT PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO MAKE A RETURN OR TO TIMELY PAY THE TAX DUE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-21-6580, RELATING TO CALCULATION OF ADMISSIONS TAX ON EXPANDED FACILITIES, SO AS TO UPDATE CROSS REFERENCES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-1340, RELATING TO COLLECTION OF SALES AND USE TAX BY A RETAIL SELLER, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN A SELLER MUST COLLECT AND REMIT TAX AND OBTAIN A RETAIL LICENSE FROM THE DEPARTMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2860, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ONE-TIME FEES ON SEMI-TRAILERS AND TRAILERS OF MOTOR CARRIERS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO KEEP AND SPEND THE FEE REVENUE FOR ADMINISTRATION OF THE FEE AND PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY SHALL DESIGN A PERMANENT TAG FOR DISPLAY ON THE REAR EXTERIOR OF THE TRAILER OR SEMI-TRAILER; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-25, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO INTEREST DUE ON REFUNDED OR CREDITED TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE INTEREST BE PAID FROM REVENUE RAISED BY THE SAME TYPE TAX AS THAT BEING REFUNDED OR CREDITED; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-55, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR THE UNDERPAYMENT OF DECLARATION OF INCOME TAX, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE PENALTY TO BE APPLIED; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-160, RELATING TO WAIVER BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE OF PENALTIES ON PAST DUE TAXES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT WAIVER OF INTEREST; TO AMEND SECTION 12-56-90, RELATING TO SET-OFF DEBT COLLECTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION AMONG THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, THE DEBTOR, AND THE CLAIMANT AGENCY IS LAWFUL; AND TO AMEND SECTION 44-96-170, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SOLID WASTE REGULATION AND DISPOSAL, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A REFUND OF THE NEW TIRE FEE FOR EACH WASTE TIRE TAKEN TO A WASTE TIRE DISPOSAL FACILITY AND DELETE REQUIREMENTS THAT CERTAIN REFUNDS MUST BE CHARGED AGAINST A COUNTY'S DISTRIBUTION.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Article 3, Chapter 4, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-4-325.     (A)     The State shall defend employees and officers of the Department of Revenue against liability arising out of their actions within the scope of their employment and indemnify them from resulting loss when they are sued in their official or individual capacities, or both.

(B)     Department of Revenue employees and officers are acting within the scope of their employment when administering any South Carolina statute which has not been held to be unconstitutional or unlawful by a final decision of a court of competent jurisdiction. For purposes of this section, a final decision is the decision of a court declaring the South Carolina statute unconstitutional or otherwise unlawful and from which the appropriate officials of this State may not or do not take an appeal or request a rehearing."

SECTION     2.     Section 12-4-330(D) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(D)     Officers An officer who serve serves summons or subpoenas and witnesses a witness appearing before the commission Department of Revenue will receive receives the same compensation as officers an officer and witnesses a witness in the circuit court. The commission department may incur and pay the expense of obtaining expert witnesses or of other evidence for use by the commission department in a judicial or administrative proceeding. This compensation and expert witness expense must be paid upon certificate of the commission department by the State Treasurer, by drawing upon funds from the type of tax that is involved in the proceeding, or by the political subdivision or political subdivisions for whose benefit these expenses were incurred on income as provided by Section 12-6-510."

SECTION     3.     A.     Section 12-6-3360(m)(2), (10), and (13) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 143 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"(2)     'Appropriate agency' means the Department of Revenue, for corporations subject to tax under Section 12-6-530 and the Department of Insurance for corporations subject to the premium tax under Chapter 7 of Title 38 except that for taxpayers subject to the premium tax imposed by Chapter 7 of Title 38, it means the Department of Insurance.

(10)     'Corporate office facility' means the location where corporate managerial, professional, technical, and administrative personnel are domiciled and employed, and where corporate financial, personnel, legal, technical, support services, and other business functions are handled. Support services include, but are not limited to, claims processing, date entry, word processing, sales order processing, and telemarketing. The term does not include an establishment where retail sales of tangible personal property or retail services are made to retail customers except for a facility which processes customer sales orders by mail, telephone, or electronic means, if the facility also processes shipments of tangible personal property to customers and if at least seventy-five percent of the dollar amount of goods sold through the facility are sold to customers outside of this State a corporate headquarters that meets the definition of a 'corporate headquarters' contained in Section 12-6-3410(J)(1).

(13)     'Qualifying service-related facility' means:

(a)     an establishment engaged in an activity or activities listed under the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Code 80 according to the Federal Office of Management and Budget Standard Industrial Classification Manual, 1987 edition; or,

(b)     a business, for which over fifty percent of the gross receipts are from providing services, as opposed to manufacturing or selling or dealing in tangible personal property and which creates at least two hundred fifty jobs at a single location other than a business engaged in legal, accounting, or investment services or retail sales, which has a net increase of at least:

(i)     two hundred fifty jobs at a single location;

(ii)     one hundred twenty-five jobs at a single location and the jobs have an average cash compensation level of more than one and one-half times the per capita income in the county where the jobs are located at the time the jobs are filled;

(iii)     seventy-five jobs at a single location and the jobs have an average cash compensation level of more than twice the per capita income in the county where the jobs are located at the time the jobs are filled; or

(iv)     thirty jobs at a single location and the jobs have an average cash compensation level of more than two and one-half times the per capita income in the county where the jobs are located at the time the jobs are filled.

The per capita income for each county is determined by using the most recent data available from the Board of Economic Advisors. Determination of the required number of jobs is in accordance with the monthly average described in subsection (F)."

B.     Notwithstanding any general effective date provided in this act, this section is effective for property tax years beginning after 1998.

SECTION     4.     Section 12-6-3370(D) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 76 of 1995, is amended to read:

"(D)     To qualify for the credit the taxpayer must obtain a construction permit issued by the Department of Health and Environmental Control or a local Soil and Water Conservation District proof of exemption from permit requirements issued by DHEC, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, or a local Soil and Water Conservation District."

SECTION     5.     Section 12-6-4970 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 76 of 1995, is amended to read:

"Section 12-6-4970.     (A)     Returns of taxpayers, except as otherwise provided, must be filed on or before the fifteenth day of the fourth month following the taxable year.

(B)     Returns of corporations must be filed on or before the fifteenth day of the third month following the taxable year. Returns for foreign corporations that do not maintain an office or place of business in the United States must be filed on or before the fifteenth day of the sixth month following the taxable year.

(C)     Returns of organizations exempt under Internal Revenue Code Section 501 reporting unrelated business income pursuant to Section 12-6-4910(8), must be filed on or before the fifteenth day of the fifth month following the taxable year.

(D)     Information returns provided in Section 12-6-4950 must be filed on or before March fifteenth 15 of each year.

(E)     Returns filed electronically have the same due dates as provided in this section."

SECTION     6.     Section 12-6-5550 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 76 of 1995, is amended to read:

"Section 12-6-5550.     (A) An A federal or state income tax overpayment due to a person who is deceased at the time of the refund is the sole and separate property of the surviving spouse irrespective of the deceased's filing status on the return.

(B) A refund by the United States or any state directly to the surviving spouse operates as a complete acquittal and discharge of liability from any suit, claim, or demand of any nature by any heir, distributee, or creditor of the decedent, or by any other person."

SECTION     7.     Section 12-11-30 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 12-11-30.     The income tax provided for in this chapter shall be in lieu is instead of all other taxes on banks, except the use tax, the documentary stamp tax deed recording fee, and taxes on real property. The real property of any such a bank shall be is taxed in the place where it may be is located, the same as the real property of individuals."

SECTION     8.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-20-175.     License fees may be reduced by credits provided in Section 12-6-3410 or Section 12-6-3480, or both of them."

SECTION     9.     Section 12-21-2550 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 12-21-2550.     (A)     The license tax imposed by this article is due and payable in monthly installments on or before the twentieth day of each month. and every A person liable to the tax shall on or before the twentieth day of each month make a true and correct return to the Commission department, in such form as it may prescribe prescribes, showing the number and prices of admissions during the previous month, and remit the tax therewith with the return.

(B)     In case of failure If a person fails to make a true and correct return or failure fails to file the return, the Commission department shall make a return upon such the information as it may be is able to obtain, assess the tax due thereon, and add a penalty of ten percent, whereupon the Commission shall mail notice to the taxpayer and, in case of failure to pay the tax within ten days after the mailing of any such notice, the Commission shall add an additional penalty of ten percent. Execution must be issued in the manner and with the force provided in Sections 12-21-3020 and 12-21-3040."

SECTION     10.     Section 12-21-6580 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 109 of 1997, is amended to read:

"Section 12-21-6580.     If a major tourism or recreation facility or a major tourism and recreation area is expanded or improved with an additional twenty million dollar investment being made within an investment period or if a major tourism and recreation area is expanded or improved with an additional twenty million dollar investment being made within an investment period, the amount of admissions tax revenues to be subject to Sections 12-21-2510 12-21-6530 and 12-21-2530 12-21-6540 for the benefit period is the amount in excess of the annual admissions tax revenues previously generated by the major tourism or recreation facility, or by all of the tourism or recreation facilities within the major tourism or recreation area, as appropriate. This amount is determined by using the average of the admissions tax revenues generated during the twenty-four months preceding the date of the filing of the certification application."

SECTION     11.     Section 12-36-1340 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 612 of 1990, is amended to read:

"Section 12-36-1340.     Every Each seller making retail sales of tangible personal property for storage, use, or other consumption in this State who shall collect and remit the tax in accordance with this chapter and shall obtain from the department a retail license as provided in this chapter, if the retail seller:

(1)     maintains a place of business;

(2)     qualifies to do business;

(3)     solicits and receives purchases or orders by an agent or salesman; or

(4)     distributes catalogs, or other advertising matter, and by reason thereof of that distribution receives and accepts orders from residents within the State;

Shall collect and remit the tax in accordance with this chapter."

SECTION     12.     Section 12-37-2860 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 125 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 12-37-2860.     (A)     Instead of the property taxes and registration requirements contained in Sections 56-3-110 and 56-3-700 on semitrailers and trailers of motor carriers as defined in Section 12-37-2810, a one-time fee payable to the Department of Public Safety in the amount of eighty-seven dollars is due on all semitrailers and trailers currently registered and subsequently on each semitrailer and trailer before being placed in service.

(B)     Twelve dollars of the one-time fee must be distributed to the Department of Revenue and may be retained by the Department of Revenue and expended in budgeted operations to record and administer the fee. The Department of Public Safety shall design a permanent tag for display on the exterior of the rear of the trailer or semitrailer in a conspicuous place. The remaining seventy-five dollars of the fee must be distributed based on the distribution formula contained in Section 12-37-2870. The distribution of fees collected pursuant to this section by the Department of Public Safety and must occur by the fifteenth day of the month following the month in which the fees are collected.

(C)     The fee required by this section is due on or before March 31, 1998, for the initial registration.

(D)     The Department of Public Safety shall design a permanent tag for display on the exterior of the rear of the trailer or semitrailer in a conspicuous place."

SECTION     13.     Section 12-54-25(C) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(C)(1)     Any tax refunded or credited must include interest on the amount of the credit or refund from the later of either the date the tax was paid or the original due date of the return to either the date the refund was sent or delivered to the taxpayer or the credit made. If any overpayment of tax imposed by this title is refunded within seventy-five days after the last day prescribed for filing the tax return, determined without regard to any extension of time for filing the return, or, in the case of a return filed after the last date, is refunded within seventy-five days after the date the return is filed, no interest is allowed under this subsection on the overpayment. If the taxpayer files a claim for a credit or refund for any overpayment of tax, and the overpayment is refunded within seventy-five days after the claim is filed, no interest is allowed on the overpayment from the date the claim is filed until the day the refund is made.

(2)     This interest must be paid by drawing upon funds from the type of tax being refunded or credited. The funds withdrawn may be expended by the department in the payment of interest on refunds.

(3)     Interest is not allowed pursuant to this subsection on an overpayment if it is refunded:

(a)     within seventy-five days after the last day prescribed for filing the tax return, without regard to an extension of time for filing;

(b)     within seventy-five days after the return is filed, in the case of a return filed after the last date; or

(c)     within seventy-five days after the taxpayer files a claim for a credit or refund for the overpayment of tax for the period between the filing of the claim to the payment of the refund."

SECTION     14.     Section 12-54-55 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 76 of 1995, is further amended to read:

"Section 12-54-55.     In the case of an underpayment of declaration of estimated tax by an individual, estate, trust, or corporate taxpayer, in lieu instead of all other penalties provided by law, there must be added to the tax for the taxable year a penalty to be determined as follows:

(1)     In the case of an individual taxpayer, estate, or trust in the same manner as prescribed by the provisions of Internal Revenue Code Section 6654, and applicable regulations, except that under Internal Revenue Code Section 6654(e)(1) one hundred dollars applies rather than five hundred dollars. No interest or penalty is due under this item for underpayments attributable to personal service income earned in another state on which was withheld income tax due the other state was withheld.

(2)     In the case of a corporate taxpayer, in the same manner as prescribed by the provisions of Internal Revenue Code Section 6655, and applicable regulations, except that:

(a)     the small amount provisions are one hundred dollars rather than five hundred dollars;

(b)     the first installment payment for corporations is due on March 15, or in the case of a taxable year beginning on any date other than January 1, there is substituted the month which corresponds thereto to that date; and

(c) for the annualized installment method, income for the first installment is annualized using the first two months of the taxable year."

SECTION     15.     Section 12-54-160 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 12-54-160.     The Commission, Unless otherwise specifically prohibited, within a specific section, the department may waive, dismiss, or reduce penalties provided for in this chapter; interest may not be waived, dismissed, or reduced."

SECTION     16.     Section 12-56-90 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 76 of 1995, is amended to read:

"Section 12-56-90.     (A) All The exchange of information exchanged among the department, claimant agency, and the debtor necessary to accomplish and effectuate the intent of pursuant to this chapter is lawful.

(B)     The information obtained by a claimant agency from the department in accordance with the exemption allowed by subsection (A) may only be used by the agency only in the pursuit of its debt collection duties and practices. and any A person employed by or formerly employed by the agency who discloses the information for any other another purpose is subject to the penalties provided in Section 12-54-240."

SECTION     17.     Section 44-96-170(L) and (M) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 181 of 1993, is further amended to read:

"(L)(1)     For sales made on or after November 1, 1991, there is imposed a fee of two dollars per for each new tire sold to the ultimate consumer, whether or not the tire is mounted by the seller or not. The wholesaler or retailer receiving new tires from unlicensed wholesalers shall be is responsible for paying the fee imposed by this section subsection.

(2)     The Department of Revenue shall administer, collect, and enforce the tire disposal fee in the same manner that the sales and use taxes are collected pursuant to Chapter 36 of Title 12. The fee imposed by this section subsection must be remitted on a monthly basis. However, taxpayers are not required to make payments under Section 12-36-2600. In lieu Instead of the discount allowed pursuant to Section 12-36-2610, the taxpayer may retain three percent of the total fees collected as an administrative collection allowance. This allowance applies whether or not the return is timely filed.

(3)     The department shall deposit all fees collected to the credit of the State Treasurer. The State Treasurer who shall establish a separate and distinct account from the state general fund.

(a)     The State Treasurer shall distribute one and one-half dollars of for each tire sold, less applicable credit, refund, and discount, to each county based upon the population in each county according to the most recent United States Census. The county shall use these funds for collection and disposal of waste tires generated within that county.

(b)     The remaining portion of the tire disposal fee is to be credited to the Solid Waste Management Trust Fund by the State Treasurer for the Waste Tire Grant Trust Fund, which is established under the administration of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

(c)     The General Assembly shall review the waste tire disposal fee every five years.

(M)     A wholesaler or retailer required to submit a fee under pursuant to subsection (L) who delivers or arranges delivery of waste tires to a permitted waste tire disposal facility may apply for a refund of one dollar per for each tire delivered. In no case may A refund may not be approved for a number of tires delivered in excess of the number of new tires sold by the individual wholesaler or retailer. Verification must be provided as required by the South Carolina State Department of Revenue. Any refund made pursuant to this subsection must be charged against the appropriate county's distributions under subsection (L)."

SECTION 18.     A.     Section 4-10-90(C) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 181 of 1993, is further amended to read:

"(C)     The Department of Revenue shall furnish data to the State Treasurer and to the governing bodies of the counties and municipalities receiving revenues for the purpose of calculating distributions and estimating revenues. The information which may be supplied to counties and municipalities includes, but is not limited to, gross receipts, net taxable sales, and tax liability by taxpayers. Information by taxpayer received by appropriate county or municipal officials is considered confidential and is governed by the provisions of Section 12-54-240. A person violating this section is subject to the penalties provided in Section 12-54-240. The State Treasurer may correct misallocations from the Property Tax Credit Fund and County/Municipal Revenue Fund by adjusting subsequent allocations, but these adjustments may be made only in allocations made in the same fiscal year as the misallocation. However, allocations made as a result of city or county code errors must be corrected prospectively."

B.     This section is effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 1998.

SECTION     19.     A.     Section 4-12-20 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 125 of 1995, is amended to read:

"Section 4-12-20.     Every agreement between a county, council or county councils municipality, school district, water and sewer authority, or other political subdivision and another party in the form of a lease must contain a provision requiring the industry other party to make payments to the county or counties, municipality or municipalities, school district or school districts, water and sewer authority, and other political units subdivisions in which the project is located in lieu of taxes, in the amounts that would result from taxes levied on the project by the a county or counties, municipality or municipalities, school district or school districts, water and sewer authority, and other other political unit or units subdivisions, if the project were owned by the industry other party, but with appropriate reductions similar to the tax exemptions, if any, which would be afforded to the industry other party if it were owner of the project."

B.     This section is effective for leases entered into after the approval by the Governor.

SECTION 20.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Amend title to read:
TO AMEND ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 4, TITLE 12, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE TAX COMMISSION BY ADDING SECTION 12-4-325, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE TO DEFEND EMPLOYEES AND OFFICERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE AGAINST LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF THEIR EMPLOYMENT AND INDEMNIFY THEM FROM RESULTING LOSS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-4-330, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A WITNESS APPEARING BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMPENSATION OR FEE OF THE WITNESS, OR THAT OF AN OFFICER SERVING PROCESS, BE PAID FROM INCOME TAX REVENUES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3360, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO JOB TAX CREDIT, SO AS TO REDEFINE "CORPORATE OFFICE FACILITY" AND "QUALIFYING SERVICE-RELATED FACILITY", EFFECTIVE FOR PROPERTY TAX YEARS BEGINNING AFTER 1998; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3370, RELATING TO A STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT IN CONNECTION WITH A WATER CONTROL SYSTEM, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE REQUIREMENTS IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR THE CREDIT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-4970, RELATING TO TIME FOR FILING OF TAX RETURN, SO AS TO ESTABLISH TIMES FOR FILING BY A FOREIGN CORPORATION WITHOUT A PLACE OF BUSINESS IN THE UNITED STATES AND BY ELECTRONIC FILING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-5550, RELATING TO INCOME TAX REFUNDS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT FEDERAL AND STATE REFUNDS ARE PAYABLE TO THE SURVIVING SPOUSE OF A DECEASED TAXPAYER; TO AMEND SECTION 12-11-30, RELATING TO THE INCOME TAX REPLACING MOST OTHER TAXES AGAINST BANKS, SO AS TO CHANGE REFERENCES IN THE SECTION FROM "DOCUMENTARY STAMP TAX" TO "DEED RECORDING FEE"; TO ADD SECTION 12-20-175 SO AS TO ALLOW CORPORATION LICENSE FEES TO BE REDUCED BY CERTAIN INCOME TAX CREDITS; TO AMEND SECTION 12-21-2550, RELATING TO STAMP AND BUSINESS LICENSE TAXES, SO AS TO DELETE THE TEN PERCENT PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO MAKE A RETURN OR TO TIMELY PAY THE TAX DUE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-21-6580, RELATING TO CALCULATION OF ADMISSIONS TAX ON EXPANDED FACILITIES, SO AS TO UPDATE CROSS REFERENCES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-36-1340, RELATING TO COLLECTION OF SALES AND USE TAX BY A RETAIL SELLER, SO AS TO REVISE THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN A SELLER MUST COLLECT AND REMIT TAX AND OBTAIN A RETAIL LICENSE FROM THE DEPARTMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2860, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ONE-TIME FEES ON SEMI-TRAILERS AND TRAILERS OF MOTOR CARRIERS, SO AS TO ALLOW THE DEPARTMENT TO KEEP AND SPEND THE FEE REVENUE FOR ADMINISTRATION OF THE FEE AND PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY DESIGN A PERMANENT TAG FOR DISPLAY ON THE REAR EXTERIOR OF THE TRAILER OR SEMI-TRAILER; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-25, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO INTEREST DUE ON REFUNDED OR CREDITED TAX, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE INTEREST BE PAID FROM REVENUE RAISED BY THE SAME TYPE TAX AS THAT BEING REFUNDED OR CREDITED; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-55, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR THE UNDERPAYMENT OF DECLARATION OF INCOME TAX, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR APPLICATION OF THE PENALTY; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-160, RELATING TO WAIVER BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE OF PENALTIES ON PAST DUE TAXES, SO AS TO ALLOW THE WAIVER, DISMISSAL, OR REDUCTION OF PENALTIES UNLESS SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITED OTHERWISE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-56-90, RELATING TO SET-OFF DEBT COLLECTION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION AMONG THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, THE DEBTOR, AND THE CLAIMANT AGENCY IS LAWFUL; TO AMEND SECTION 44-96-170, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO SOLID WASTE REGULATION AND DISPOSAL, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A REFUND OF THE NEW TIRE FEE FOR EACH WASTE TIRE TAKEN TO A WASTE TIRE DISPOSAL FACILITY AND DELETE REQUIREMENTS THAT CERTAIN REFUNDS MUST BE CHARGED AGAINST A COUNTY'S DISTRIBUTION; TO AMEND SECTION 4-10-90, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ALLOCATIONS TO LOCAL GOVERNING BODIES FROM THE PROPERTY TAX CREDIT FUND AND COUNTY/MUNICIPAL REVENUE FUND, SO AS TO REQUIRE PROSPECTIVE CORRECTION OF MISALLOCATIONS DUE TO CITY OR COUNTY CODE ERRORS, FOR TAX YEARS AFTER 1998; AND TO AMEND SECTION 4-12-20, RELATING TO LEASE PROVISIONS FOR FEES IN LIEU OF PROPERTY TAXES, SO AS TO ALLOW THE PARTIES TO THE LEASE AGREEMENTS TO BE OTHER THAN A COUNTY AND OTHER THAN AN INDUSTRY.

Amend title to conform.

/s/John Drummond                  /s/Henry E. Brown, Jr.
/s/John C. Land III               /s/William D. Boan
/s/Glenn F. McConnell             /s/Annette Young-Brickell
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

Rep. BOAN explained the Conference Report.

The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4535--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS GRANTED

Rep. BOAN moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request.

H. 4535 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 59 OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 149 SO AS TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER WHICH THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COVER THE COST OF ATTENDANCE UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS TO ELIGIBLE RESIDENT STUDENTS ATTENDING CERTAIN PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3385 SO AS TO ALLOW A REFUNDABLE STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX CREDIT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS FOR TUITION PAID AT A PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TO DEFINE SUCH INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THE CRITERIA STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR THE CREDIT MUST MEET, TO DEFINE TUITION FOR PURPOSES OF THE CREDIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT APPLIES ONLY FOR STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL DURING OR AFTER MAY, 1998.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 106; Nays 6

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Bailey                 Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bauer
Beck                   Boan                   Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Brown, T.              Campsen
Carnell                Cato                   Cave
Chellis                Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Cooper                 Cotty                  Cromer
Dantzler               Delleney               Edge
Emory                  Felder                 Fleming
Gamble                 Gourdine               Govan
Harrell                Harris                 Harrison
Harvin                 Haskins                Hawkins
Hines, J.              Hinson                 Howard
Inabinett              Jennings               Keegan
Kelley                 Kennedy                Kinon
Kirsh                  Klauber                Knotts
Koon                   Lanford                Law
Leach                  Lee                    Limehouse
Littlejohn             Mack                   Maddox
Martin                 Mason                  McAbee
McCraw                 McGee                  McKay
McLeod                 McMahand               McMaster
Meacham                Miller                 Mullen
Neilson                Pinckney               Quinn
Rhoad                  Rice                   Riser
Robinson               Rodgers                Sandifer
Scott                  Seithel                Sharpe
Sheheen                Simrill                Smith, D.
Smith, F.              Smith, J.              Smith, R.
Spearman               Stille                 Stoddard
Stuart                 Townsend               Trotter
Vaughn                 Webb                   Whatley
Wilder                 Wilkes                 Wilkins
Witherspoon            Woodrum                Young
Young-Brickell

Total--106

Those who voted in the negative are:

Altman                 Davenport              Easterday
Hamilton               Lloyd                  Tripp

Total--6

So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.

The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference, the SPEAKER appointed Reps. H. BROWN, BOAN and YOUNG-BRICKELL to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4535---FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:

Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:
H. 4535 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 59 OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 149 SO AS TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER WHICH THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COVER THE COST OF ATTENDANCE UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS TO ELIGIBLE RESIDENT STUDENTS ATTENDING CERTAIN PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3385 SO AS TO ALLOW A REFUNDABLE STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX CREDIT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS FOR TUITION PAID AT A PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TO DEFINE SUCH INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THE CRITERIA STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR THE CREDIT MUST MEET, TO DEFINE TUITION FOR PURPOSES OF THE CREDIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT APPLIES ONLY FOR STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL DURING OR AFTER MAY, 1998.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"CHAPTER 149
Legislative Incentives for Future Excellence
(LIFE) Scholarships

Section 59-149-10.     (A)     Legislative Incentives for Future Excellence (LIFE) Scholarships are established which must be offered by the State. These scholarships cover the cost of attendance as defined by the Commission on Higher Education by regulation up to a maximum of two thousand dollars a year to eligible resident students attending four-year public or independent institutions as defined in subsection (B), and to cover the cost of attendance up to a maximum of one thousand dollars a year to eligible resident students attending two-year public or independent institutions as defined in subsection (B).

(B)     For purposes of this chapter, a 'public or independent institution' which a student may attend to receive a LIFE Scholarship includes the following:

(1)     a South Carolina public institution defined in Section 59-103-5 and an independent institution as defined in Section 59-113-50.

(2)     a public or independent bachelor's level institution chartered before 1962 whose major campus and headquarters are located within South Carolina; or an independent bachelor's level institution which has attained 501(c)(3) tax status and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools or the New England Association of Colleges and Schools; or a public or independent two-year institution which has attained 501(c)(3) tax status. Institutions whose sole purpose is religious or theological training, or the granting of professional degrees do not meet the definition of 'public or independent institution' for purposes of this chapter.

(C)     These LIFE scholarships must be granted and awarded as provided in this chapter.

Section 59-149-20.     (A)     To be eligible for a LIFE scholarship, a student must be considered a resident of this State as provided in this chapter.

(B)     A student attending such a public or independent institution of this State and who is seeking a LIFE scholarship as a freshman meets the residency requirements of this chapter if he meets the requirements of Section 59-149-50(A) in regard to high school or home school graduation requirements and is classified as a resident of South Carolina for in-state tuition purposes under Chapter 112 of this title at the time of enrollment at the institution.

(C)     Students receiving a Palmetto Fellows Scholarship are not eligible for a LIFE Scholarship under this chapter.

Section 59-149-30.     Full-time enrollment as defined in Title IV of the Federal Higher Education Act is a requirement for eligibility. The student must be admitted, enrolled, and classified as a degree-seeking undergraduate student.

Section 59-149-40.     These LIFE scholarships in combination with all other grants and scholarships shall not exceed the cost of attendance at the particular institutions referenced in Section 59-149-10.

Section 59-149-50.     (A)     To be eligible for a LIFE scholarship, a student must be either a member of a class graduating from a high school located in this State on or after May, 1995, a home school student who has successfully completed a high school home school program in this State in the manner required by law on or after May, 1995, or a student graduating from a preparatory high school outside this State on or after May, 1995, while a dependent of a parent or guardian who is a legal resident of this State and has custody of the dependent, and these students must also meet the requirements of subsection (B). In addition, beginning with the 1998-99 school year for those students who graduate from high school on or after May, 1998, the student must have graduated from high school with a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade average on a 4.0 scale, and have scored 1000 or better on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or have the equivalent ACT score, 1050 or better beginning with school year 2000-2001, and 1100 or better beginning with school year 2002-2003; provided that if the student is to attend such a public or independent two-year college or university in this State, including a technical college, the SAT requirement does not apply. If a student chooses to attend such a public or independent institution of this State and does not make the required SAT score or the required high school grade point average, as applicable, the student may earn a LIFE scholarship after his freshman year if he meets the grade point average and semester credit hour requirements of subsection (B).

(B)     Students receiving a LIFE Scholarship to retain it and students currently enrolled in an eligible institution to receive such a scholarship must earn a 3.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale each year and earn at least thirty credit hours each year for the maximum of semesters permitted at that institution by Section 59-149-60.

(C)     Students who were LIFE scholarship recipients seeking a degree at such a public or independent institution of this State during their freshman or other year who failed to earn a cumulative 3.0 at the end of the term they attempted the requisite number of hours required by subsection (B) may regain eligibility if their cumulative grade average is a 3.0 at the end of the term they have attempted at least sixty hours if they are a sophomore or ninety hours if they are a junior.

(D)     By the year 2000, students graduating from high school to be eligible for a LIFE scholarship must have passed all courses required for a STAR diploma.

Section 59-149-60.     The student may receive a LIFE scholarship for not more than ten semesters for a five-year degree program, eight semesters for a four-year degree program, or four semesters for a two-year degree program. In addition, students in order to be eligible for these scholarships must enroll in an eligible institution within two years of graduating from high school.

Section 59-149-70.     The student must not be in default on a Federal Title IV or State of South Carolina educational loan, nor owe a refund on a Federal Title IV or State of South Carolina student financial aid program. If the student has repaid the defaulted loan or refund in full, he is eligible to obtain a LIFE scholarship in the future.

Section 59-149-80.     Students transferring from one eligible public or independent institution of this State to another are eligible for a LIFE scholarship, if they continue to meet all eligibility requirements.

Section 59-149-90.     (A)     Students must not have been adjudicated delinquent or been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any felonies or any alcohol or drug-related offenses under the laws of this or any other state or under the laws of the United States in order to be eligible for a LIFE scholarship.

(B)     Regardless of the number of hours attempted, once the student has earned a bachelor's degree, he is ineligible for a LIFE scholarship to seek another degree.

(C)     All students who earn a LIFE scholarship under this chapter or the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship shall be recognized at graduation from high school with a certificate issued by the Department of Education.

Section 59-149-100.     Students enrolled in an eligible public or independent institution qualify for a LIFE scholarship, even though they may not be physically present in South Carolina during all or part of the school term for which the LIFE scholarship applies. The student's institution must approve for credit a study-abroad or out-of-state program. Summer school may be substituted for one fall or spring semester in any year in a planned program of study.

Section 59-149-110.     (A)     Any credit hours attempted or earned before high school graduation, hours exempted by examination, or advanced placement credit hours do not count against the semester limits as provided in Section 59-149-60.

(B)     No LIFE scholarship funds may be applied to the costs of continuing education or remedial courses.

Section 59-149-120.     Any funds appropriated by the General Assembly to the Commission on Higher Education or any other agency, department, or institution to provide funding for these LIFE scholarships may be carried forward from fiscal year to fiscal year.

Section 59-149-130.     The commission shall promulgate regulations and establish procedures to administer the provisions of this chapter. In addition, the commission must ensure accountability for the scholarship by monitoring the distribution of grades at the institutions which receive these scholarship funds.

Section 59-149-140.     All institutions participating in the LIFE Scholarship Program must report their enrollment and other relevant data as solicited by the Commission on Higher Education which may audit these institutions to ensure compliance with this provision.

Section 59-149-150.     There is automatically appropriated from the general fund of the State whatever amount is necessary to provide to all eligible recipients the LIFE scholarships authorized by this chapter."

Section 59-149-160.     The Commission on Higher Education is authorized two additional FTEs to administer the LIFE Scholarship Program established by this chapter, the compensation for whom shall be provided from funds appropriated to the commission by the General Assembly.

SECTION     2.     Article 25, Chapter 6, Title 12 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-6-3385.     (A)     A student is allowed a refundable individual income tax credit equal to twenty-five percent, not to exceed eight hundred fifty dollars in the case of four-year institutions and twenty-five percent, not to exceed three hundred fifty dollars in the case of two-year institutions for tuition paid an institution of higher learning or a designated institution as provided for in this section during a taxable year. The amount of the tax credit claimed up to the limits authorized in this section for any taxable year may not exceed the amount of tuition paid during that taxable year. Tuition credits may not be claimed for more than four consecutive years after the student enrolls in an eligible institution. However, extensions may be granted due to medical necessity as defined by the Commission on Higher Education. The credit may be claimed by the student or by an individual eligible to claim the student as a dependent on his federal income tax return, whoever actually paid the tuition. The department shall prescribe a form for claiming the credit.

(B)     As used in this section:

(1)     'Institution of higher learning' means a South Carolina public institution defined in Section 59-103-5 and an independent institution as defined in Section 59-113-50.

(2)     A 'designated institution' means a public or independent bachelor's level institution chartered before 1962 whose major campus and headquarters are located within South Carolina; or an independent bachelor's level institution which has attained 501(c)(3) tax status and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools or the New England Association of Colleges and Schools; or a public or independent two-year institution which has attained 501(c)(3) tax status. Institutions whose sole purpose is religious or theological training, or the granting of professional degrees do not meet the definition of 'institution of higher learning' or 'designated institution' as defined in this section.

(3)     'Student' means an individual enrolled in an institution of higher learning:

(a)     eligible for in-state tuition and fees as determined pursuant to Chapter 112 of Title 59 and applicable regulations;

(b)     who at the end of the taxable year for which the credit is claimed has completed at least fifteen credit hours a semester, or its equivalent, as determined by the Commission on Higher Education, for every regular semester ending during the applicable taxable year, and who is admitted, enrolled, and classified as a degree-seeking undergraduate or enrolled in a certificate or diploma program of at least one year;

(c)     who, within twelve months before enrolling:

(I)     graduated from a high school in this State;

(ii)     successfully completed a high school home school program in this State in the manner required by law; or

(iii)     graduated from a preparatory high school outside this State while a dependent of a parent or guardian who is a legal resident of this State and has custody of the dependent;

(d)     not in default on a federal Title IV or State of South Carolina educational loan, nor who owes a refund on a federal Title IV or a State of South Carolina student financial aid program;

(e)     who has not been adjudicated delinquent or been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere to any felonies or any alcohol or drug-related offenses under the laws of this State, any other state or comparable jurisdiction, or of the United States;

(f)     who is in good standing at the institution attended;

(g)     who is not a Palmetto Fellowship recipient;

(h)     who is not a LIFE Scholarship recipient.

(4)     'Tuition' means the amount charged, including required fees, necessary for enrollment. Higher education tuition at an independent institution means the average tuition at the four-year public institutions of higher learning as defined in Section 59-103-15(B)(2), but not more than the actual tuition charged. Before calculating the credit, there must be deducted from tuition any amounts received toward its payment by any other scholarship grants."

SECTION     3.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor; provided, however, the provisions of SECTION 2 are effective for taxable years beginning after 1997 and applies only to persons graduating from high school during or after May, 1997./

AMEND TITLE TO READ:
/TO AMEND TITLE 59 OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 149 SO AS TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER WHICH THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COVER THE COST OF ATTENDANCE UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS TO ELIGIBLE RESIDENT STUDENTS ATTENDING CERTAIN PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3385 SO AS TO ALLOW A REFUNDABLE STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX CREDIT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS FOR A PORTION OF TUITION PAID AT A PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TO DEFINE SUCH INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THE CRITERIA STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR THE CREDIT MUST MEET, TO DEFINE TUITION FOR PURPOSES OF THE CREDIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT APPLIES ONLY FOR STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL DURING OR AFTER MAY, 1997./

/s/John W. Drummond               /s/Henry E. Brown, Jr.
/s/John C. Land III               /s/William D. Boan
/s/Glenn F. McConnell             /s/Annette Young-Brickell
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

The Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4700--CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 4700 -- Ways and Means Committee--General Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 1998-1999.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend totals and title to conform.

Make all necessary technical corrections.

/s/Senator John W. Drummond       /s/Rep. Henry E. Brown, Jr.
/s/Senator John C. Land III       /s/Rep. William D. Boan
/s/Senator Glenn F. McConnell     /s/Rep. Annette D. Young-Brickell
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

Rep. H. BROWN explained the Conference Report.

Rep. TRIPP demanded the yeas and nays, which were not ordered.

The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly by a division vote of 92 to 13.

H. 4702--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS GRANTED

Rep. H. BROWN moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request.

H. 4702 -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 1997-98.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 108; Nays 4

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Altman                 Bailey
Barfield               Barrett                Battle
Bauer                  Beck                   Boan
Bowers                 Breeland               Brown, G.
Brown, H.              Brown, J.              Brown, T.
Byrd                   Campsen                Canty
Carnell                Cato                   Cave
Chellis                Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Cooper                 Cotty                  Cromer
Dantzler               Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Emory                  Felder
Fleming                Gamble                 Gourdine
Govan                  Hamilton               Harrell
Harris                 Harrison               Harvin
Haskins                Hawkins                Hines, J.
Hinson                 Howard                 Inabinett
Jennings               Kelley                 Kennedy
Kinon                  Kirsh                  Klauber
Knotts                 Koon                   Lanford
Law                    Leach                  Lee
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Lloyd
Mack                   Maddox                 Martin
Mason                  McAbee                 McCraw
McGee                  McKay                  McMahand
McMaster               Meacham                Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Mullen                 Neilson
Pinckney               Quinn                  Rhoad
Rice                   Riser                  Robinson
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scott
Seithel                Sharpe                 Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, J.              Smith, R.
Spearman               Stoddard               Stuart
Townsend               Trotter                Vaughn
Webb                   Whatley                Wilder
Wilkes                 Wilkins                Witherspoon
Woodrum                Young                  Young-Brickell

Total--108

Those who voted in the negative are:

Keegan                 McLeod                 Sheheen
Tripp

Total--4

So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.

The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference, the SPEAKER appointed Reps. H. BROWN, YOUNG-BRICKELL and BOAN to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4702---FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 11, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 4702 -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 1997-98.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the resolution, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     In accordance with the provisions of Article III, Section 36(B)(2) and (3), Constitution of South Carolina, 1895, and Section 11-11-320(C) and (D) of the 1976 Code, there is appropriated from the monies available in the Capital Reserve Fund for fiscal year 1997-98 the following amounts:

(1)     Election Commission - 1998 Statewide General

Election     2,088,000

(2)     State Department of Education

(a)     Instructional Materials (Textbooks)     5,000,000

(b)     Library Materials     577,000

(c)     Hold Harmless Fringe     8,500,000

(d)     Bus Shops - Parts and Gas     1,450,000

(3)     Budget and Control Board - School Technology     5,150,000

(4)     Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School

(a)     Computers     75,000

(b)     Dorm Equipment     30,000

(c)     Central Energy Management System     40,000

(5)     Higher Education Institutional Funding     38,783,000

(6)     Commission on Higher Education - EPSCOR     2,500,000

(7)     State Department of Education - Governor's School

for the Arts     3,000,000

(8)     School for the Deaf & Blind - Facilities and Equipment

Upgrade     245,000

(9)     Higher Education Tuition Grants Commission -

Tuition Grants     500,000

(10)     Judicial Department

(a)     Information Technology Replacement and

Maintenance     500,000

(b)     Alternate Dispute Resolution - Contractual

Services     300,000

(11)     The Citadel - Continuation of Assimilation of

Women     750,000

(12)     South Carolina State University - Business School

Accreditation     500,000

(13)     USC Columbia - Law Library     400,000

(14)     Winthrop - University Equipment/Science Building     775,000

(15)     State Board for Technical and Comprehensive

Education - Special Schools     2,000,000

(16)     Chesterfield-Marlboro TEC - Roof Repair     250,000

(17)     Department of Health and Human Services -

Greenwood Aging Council     100,000

(18)     Department of Health and Environmental Control

(a)     Water Quality Improvement     1,000,000

(b)     Infectious Disease Detection and Control     99,649

(c)     Year 2000 Computer Reprogramming     895,627

(d)     Facility Renovations     1,000,000

(19)     Arts Commission - Penn Center     109,093

(20)     State Museum - Collections     100,000

(21)     Clemson PSA

(a)     SLC Fire Ant Study     200,000

(b)     Meat Inspection     150,000

(22)     Department of Natural Resources - Law Enforcement

Vehicles     236,000

(23)     Sea Grant Consortium - Information Technology     50,000

(24)     Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism

(a)     Palmetto Trails     85,000

(b)     Heritage Corridor     1,000,000

(c)     Thomas Sumter Monument     40,000

(d)     Legacy Trust Fund     400,000

(25)     Department of Commerce - Information Technology     151,000

(26)     Governor's Office - SLED - DNA Database/Lab

Equipment     208,966

(27)     Department of Public Safety

(a)     Computer Upgrade     1,000,000

(b)     Highway Patrol Vests and Vehicles     1,114,940

(28)     Department of Corrections - Substance Abuse

Facility at Lee Correctional Institute     650,375

(29)     House of Representatives - Southern Legislative

Conference     180,000

(29.1)     Expenses incurred by this State as a result of hosting the 1998 Annual Meeting of the Southern Legislative Conference must be paid from private contributions. State funds appropriated for this purpose must be expended only to the extent that private contributions are insufficient. After all expenses of hosting the meeting have been paid, unexpended state funds shall lapse to the General Fund, and unexpended private contributions must be remitted to the State Treasurer and credited to the General Fund.

(30)     Comptroller General - Year 2000 Compliance

Software     35,000

(31)     Adjutant General - FEMA State Match     530,622

(32)     (a)     Budget and Control Board Division of Regional

Development - Local Government Grants     1,000,000

(b)     Budget and Control Board Division

of Regional Developmentment - Infrastructure

Revolving Loan Fund     1,000,000

(c)     Budget and Control Board Division of Budget

and Analyses - South Carolina State University

Deficit Reduction     2,100,000

(33)     Budget and Control Board Division of Budget

and Analyses - Confederate Relic Room

(a)     Flags and Artifacts Restoration     50,000

(b)     Travel and Educational Outreach     18,500

(34)     State Ethics Commission - Equipment     2,050

TOTAL     86,919,822

SECTION     2.     The Comptroller General shall post the appropriations contained in this joint resolution in fiscal year 1998-99.

SECTION     3.     This joint resolution takes effect thirty days after the completion of the 1997-98 fiscal year in accordance with the provisions of Article III, Section 36(B)(3)(a), Constitution of South Carolina, 1895, and Section 11-11-320(D)(1) of the 1976 Code./

Amend title to conform.

/s/Senator John Drummond          /s/Rep. Henry E. Brown, Jr.
/s/Senator John C. Land III       /s/Rep. William D. Boan
/s/Senator Glenn F. McConnell     Rep. Annette Young-Brickell
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

The Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4853--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS GRANTED

Rep. BOAN moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request.

H. 4853 -- Rep. Boan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-710, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO SET PERCENTAGES OF REFUND FOR TAXABLE MOTOR FUEL USED TO OPERATE CERTAIN POWER TAKE-OFF EQUIPMENT, AND TO EXEMPT KEROSENE IN CERTAIN INSTANCES AND MOTOR FUEL USED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS FOR STATE-FUNDED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1730, RELATING TO PENALTIES IN CONNECTION WITH TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CIVIL PENALTIES WHICH MAY BE IMPOSED REGARDING THE SALE OR USE OF DYED FUEL; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-31-220 AND 12-31-250 RELATING TO TEMPORARY AND BIENNIAL REGISTRATION CARDS AND IDENTIFICATION MARKERS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 106; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Bailey                 Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bauer
Beck                   Boan                   Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Brown, T.              Byrd
Campsen                Canty                  Cato
Cave                   Chellis                Clyburn
Cooper                 Cotty                  Cromer
Dantzler               Delleney               Easterday
Edge                   Emory                  Felder
Fleming                Gamble                 Gourdine
Govan                  Hamilton               Harrell
Harris                 Harvin                 Haskins
Hawkins                Hines, J.              Hinson
Howard                 Inabinett              Jennings
Keegan                 Kelley                 Kennedy
Kinon                  Kirsh                  Klauber
Knotts                 Koon                   Lanford
Law                    Leach                  Lee
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Loftis
Mack                   Martin                 Mason
McAbee                 McCraw                 McGee
McKay                  McLeod                 McMahand
McMaster               Meacham                Miller
Moody-Lawrence         Neilson                Pinckney
Quinn                  Rhoad                  Rice
Riser                  Robinson               Rodgers
Sandifer               Scott                  Seithel
Sharpe                 Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, J.              Smith, R.
Spearman               Stille                 Stoddard
Stuart                 Townsend               Trotter
Vaughn                 Webb                   Whatley
Wilder                 Wilkes                 Wilkins
Witherspoon            Woodrum                Young
Young-Brickell

Total--106

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.

The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference, the SPEAKER appointed Reps. H. BROWN, BOAN and YOUNG-BRICKELL to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4853---FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 4853 -- Rep. Boan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-710, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO SET PERCENTAGES OF REFUND FOR TAXABLE MOTOR FUEL USED TO OPERATE CERTAIN POWER TAKE-OFF EQUIPMENT, AND TO EXEMPT KEROSENE IN CERTAIN INSTANCES AND MOTOR FUEL USED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS FOR STATE-FUNDED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1730, RELATING TO PENALTIES IN CONNECTION WITH TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CIVIL PENALTIES WHICH MAY BE IMPOSED REGARDING THE SALE OR USE OF DYED FUEL; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-31-220 AND 12-31-250 RELATING TO TEMPORARY AND BIENNIAL REGISTRATION CARDS AND IDENTIFICATION MARKERS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Section 12-28-710(9) and (12) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 461 of 1996, is further amended to read:

"(9)     kerosene and diesel fuel used as heating oil or in trains, or used for other nonhighway purposes in equipment not licensed as a motor vehicle other than as expressly exempted under another provision;

(12)     taxable motor fuel used in state-owned school buses and in state-owned administration and service vehicles used in the pupil transportation program and transportation of students by state-funded institutions of higher learning;"

SECTION     2.     Section 12-28-1730(F) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 136 of 1995, is amended to read:

"(F)     The department shall impose a civil penalty in an amount equivalent to that imposed by Section 6715 of the Internal Revenue Code on the operator of a vehicle who knowingly violates the prohibition on the sale or use of dyed fuel upon public highways of this State in an amount equivalent to that imposed by Section 6714 of the Internal Revenue Code."

SECTION     3.     Sections 12-31-220 and 12-31-250 of the 1976 Code are repealed.

SECTION 4.     A.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 12-49-85.     (A)     If the person officially charged with the collection of ad valorem taxes on real or personal property for a county determines that the tax, assessment, or penalty is uncollectible, he shall record that determination and the reason for it on a list he maintains. At least annually he shall provide the list to the county auditor, who may remove a particular determination from the duplicate list, but the auditor shall record the removal and the reason for it as prescribed by the Comptroller General.

(B)     The reasons for removal of a tax, assessment, or penalty from the duplicate list may include, but are not limited to:

(1)     insufficient property of the person charged with the uncollectible tax, assessment, or penalty to collect it;

(2)     collection of the tax, assessment, or penalty has been enjoined by a competent court.

(C)     Subject to the provisions of Section 12-54-85(E), the auditor and the person officially charged with the collection of ad valorem taxes shall review the list annually. If it is later determined that the tax, assessment, or penalty was improperly removed from the duplicate list or is collectible, it must be returned to the duplicate list for collection, with all penalties and interest accruing."

B.     Section 12-37-251(E) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 401 of 1996, is further amended to read:

"(E)     In the year of reassessment the millage rate for all real and personal property must not exceed the rollback millage, except that the rollback millage may be increased by the percentage increase in the consumer price index for the year immediately preceding the year of reassessment. Rollback millage is calculated by dividing the prior year property tax revenues by the adjusted total assessed value applicable in the year the values derived from a countywide equalization and reassessment program are implemented. This amount of assessed value must be adjusted by deducting assessments added for property or improvements not previously taxed, for new construction, and for renovation of existing structures."

C.     Section 12-43-220(c) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 431 of 1996, is further amended by adding:

"(5)     To qualify for the four percent assessment ratio, the owner-occupant of a legal residence that is being purchased under a contract for sale or a bond for title must record the contract for sale or the bond for title in the office of the register of mesne conveyances or the clerk of court in those counties where the office of the register of mesne conveyances has been abolished.

For purposes of this subsection, a contract for sale or a bond for title is the sale of real property by a seller, who finances the sale and retains title to the property solely as security for the debt."

D.     Section 12-54-85(E) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(E)     No A tax may not be collected by levy, warrant for distraint, or proceedings in court, unless the:

(1)     the levy, warrant for distraint, or proceedings in court were begun within ten years after the assessment of the tax,;

(2)     the taxpayer has agreed to extend this period,; or

(3)     the running of this period is suspended in accordance with this section.

For property tax purposes, the 'assessment of the tax' occurs on the later of the last day the tax may be paid without penalty or the date of the tax notice."

E.     Section 12-60-2520(B) of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 60 of 1995, is amended to read:

"(B)     Within thirty days of the date of the request for a meeting or as soon thereafter as practical, If, upon examination of the property taxpayer's written objection, the county assessor agrees with the taxpayer, the county assessor must correct the error. If, upon the examination, the county assessor does not agree with the taxpayer, the assessor shall schedule a conference with the property taxpayer within thirty days of the date of the request for a meeting or as soon after that as practical. If the matter is not resolved at the conference, the assessor shall advise the property taxpayer of the right to protest and provide the taxpayer a form on which to file the protest. The property taxpayer has thirty days after the date of the conference to file a written protest with the assessor. The protest must contain:

(1)     the name, address, and telephone number of the property taxpayer;

(2)     a description of the property in issue;

(3)     a statement of facts supporting the taxpayer's position;

(4)     a statement outlining the reasons for the appeal, including any law or other authority, upon which the taxpayer relies; and

(5)     the value and classification which the property taxpayer considers the fair market value, special use value, if applicable, and the proper classification.

The taxpayer may use the form prepared by the department, but use of the form is not mandatory."

F.     Section 12-60-2910(A) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 431 of 1996, is further amended to read:

"(A)     A property taxpayer may object to a personal property tax assessment or a denial of a homestead exemption made by the county auditor by requesting, in writing, to meet with the auditor at any time on or before the last day the tax levied upon the assessment can be timely paid later of:

(1)     thirty days after the tax notice is mailed; or

(2)     last day the tax levied upon the assessment may be timely paid."

G.     Sections 12-43-225 and 12-49-80 of the 1976 Code are repealed.

H.     Notwithstanding the general effective date of this act, this section is effective for property tax years beginning after 1998.

SECTION     5.     A.     Section 61-2-100 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 415 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 61-2-100.     (A) No license or permit may be issued to an organization, an association, or a corporation as an entity. If an application is made for an organization, an association, or a corporation, the license or permit, if issued, must be issued to an officer of the organization, association, or corporation or a person specifically designated in writing by the Chief Executive Officer of the organization, association, or corporation. The officer or designated person is responsible under the license or permit as an individual and is subject to the provisions and penalties set forth in this title applicable to individual licensees and permittees.

(B)     A person may hold multiple permits and licenses. However, a person, his agent, or his attorney must not be issued a permit or license for more than one business entity.

(C)     No license or permit may be issued by the department to a person under twenty-one years of age.

(A)     The department may issue licenses and permits authorized under this title to qualifying persons. Licenses and permits may be issued only to the person who is the owner of the business seeking the permit or license.

(B)     The department shall initiate action to revoke any permit or license that is issued to any person who is not the owner of the licensed business or when the licensed individual or an individual principal of the licensed business is under twenty-one years of age.

(C)     If application is made for a license or permit under this title by a person other than an individual, all principals are deemed to be the applicant under Section 61-2-160.

(D)     The department may not issue a license or permit under this title to any person unless the person and all principals are of good moral character.

(E)     The department may not issue a license or permit under this title to an individual under twenty-one years of age or a business with an individual principal under twenty-one years of age.

(F)     Businesses licensed or permitted by the department under this title must designate with the department an agent and mailing address for service of notices. Any required notice may be given by handing it to the agent in person or leaving the notice at his office with a clerk or other person in charge of the office, or if there is no one in charge, leaving it in a conspicuous place in the office; or, if the office is closed or the person to be served has no office, leaving a copy at his dwelling place with a person of suitable age and discretion residing in the dwelling place; or by serving it on an employee at the licensed place of business; or by mailing it by first class mail to the agent at his last known address, postage prepaid. No person may act as agent for more than one business entity unless the person has an ownership interest in the business entities.

(G)     Nothing in this section may be construed to alter the effect of Sections 61-6-140 and 61-6-150.

(H)     As used in this title and unless otherwise required by the context:

(1)     'Person' includes an individual, a trust, estate, partnership, limited liability company, receiver, association, company, corporation, or any other group.

(2)     'principal' of a business or entity means a person who is described in any one or more of the following terms:

(a)     an officer of the business or entity which owns the business;

(b)     a partner other than a limited partner who cannot exercise any management control;

(c)     a manager of limited liability company which is managed by managers;

(d)     a member of the limited liability company which is not managed by managers;

(e)     a fiduciary, including personal representatives, trustees, guardians, committees, and receivers, who manage, hold, or control title to or who is otherwise in direct or indirect control of the business;

(f)     a person who owns twenty-five percent or more of the combined voting power of the business or entity;

(g)     a person who owns twenty-five percent or more of the value of the business entity; or

(h)     an employee who has day-to-day operational management responsibilities for the business or entity.

(i)     a license or permit may be issued to a publicly held corporation, which is deemed the applicant under Section 61-2-160 and the corporation shall designate an officer or other employee of good moral character, over the age of twenty-one and a resident of this State in whose name the permit or license must be held on behalf of the corporation and the corporation may substitute an officer or employee if the individual is of good moral character, over the age of twenty-one, and a resident of this State, and upon notice in writing of the substitution to the department."

B.     Section 61-6-505 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 458 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 61-6-505.     (A) A person who purchases or acquires by lease, inheritance, divorce decree, eviction, or otherwise a retail business which sells alcoholic beverages from a holder of a retail liquor license at the business, upon initiating the application process for a permanent retail liquor license, may be issued a temporary retail liquor license by the department at the time of the purchase or acquisition if the location for which the temporary license is sought is not considered by the department to be a public nuisance as defined by the department by regulation and:

(1)     the applicant currently holds a valid retail liquor license; or

(2)     the applicant has had a criminal history background check conducted by the State Law Enforcement Division within the past thirty days.

(B)     A temporary license issued pursuant to subsection (A) is valid until a permanent license is approved or disapproved by the department, but in no case is it valid for longer more than one hundred twenty days from the date of issuance.

(C)     Notwithstanding subsection (B), the department may revoke a temporary license if the applicant fails to proceed with obtaining pursue the permanent license in a timely manner, as set forth by the department by regulation.

(D)     The department shall collect a fee of twenty-five dollars for each temporary license sought. The funds generated by this fee must be deposited in the general fund of the State."

C.     Section 61-6-2005 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 458 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 61-6-2005.     (A)     A person who purchases or acquires by lease, inheritance, divorce decree, eviction, or otherwise a retail business which sells alcoholic liquors in sealed containers of two ounces or less from a holder of a license to sell alcoholic liquors in sealed containers of two ounces or less at the business, upon initiating the application process for a permanent license, may be issued a temporary license by the department at the time of the purchase or acquisition if the location for which the temporary license is sought is not considered by the department to be a public nuisance as defined by the department by regulation and:

(1)     the applicant currently holds a valid license to sell alcoholic liquors in sealed containers of two ounces or less; or

(2)     the applicant has had a criminal history background check conducted by the State Law Enforcement Division within the past thirty days.

(B)     A temporary license issued pursuant to subsection (A) is valid until a permanent license is approved or disapproved by the department, but in no case is it valid for longer more than one hundred twenty days from the date of issuance.

(C)     Notwithstanding subsection (B), the department may revoke a temporary license if the applicant fails to proceed with obtaining pursue the permanent license in a timely manner, as set forth by the department by regulation.

(D)     The department shall collect a fee of twenty-five dollars for each temporary license sought. The funds generated by this fee must be deposited in the general fund of the State."

D.     Section 61-4-210 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 415 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 61-4-210.     (A)     A person who purchases or acquires by lease, inheritance, divorce decree, eviction, or otherwise a retail business which sells beer or wine from a holder of a retail permit to sell beer or wine at the business, upon initiating the application process for a biennial retail beer or beer and wine permit, may be issued a temporary retail beer or beer and wine permit by the department at the time of the purchase or acquisition if the location for which the temporary permit is sought is not considered by the department to be a public nuisance as defined by regulation of the department and:

(1)     the applicant currently holds a valid beer or beer and wine permit; or

(2)     the applicant has had a criminal history background check conducted by the division within the past thirty days.

(B)     A temporary beer or beer and wine permit issued pursuant to subsection (A) is valid until a biennial retail beer or beer and wine permit is approved or disapproved by the department, but in no case is it valid for longer more than one hundred twenty days from the date of issuance.

(C)     Notwithstanding subsection (B), the department may revoke a temporary retail beer or beer and wine permit if the applicant fails to proceed with obtaining pursue the biennial retail beer or beer and wine permit in a timely manner, as set forth by regulation of the department.

(D) The department must charge shall collect a fee of twenty-five dollars for each temporary beer or beer and wine permit. The funds generated by this fee must be deposited in the general fund of the State."

E.     Section 61-6-2890 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 415 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 61-6-2890.     (A)     A registered producer may not store alcoholic liquors only in a warehouse of the registered producer unless licensed by the department. The department must require sufficient bond with respect to a licensed warehouse to ensure proper handling of liquors stored in the warehouse. Application for license to operate a warehouse must be filed on forms prescribed by the department.

(B)     When an application for a warehouse license is submitted, a fee of four hundred dollars must be paid to the department. Where application is made for a warehouse license on or after March first 1, the fee is one hundred fifty dollars. A warehouse license is valid from the date of issue until the second August thirty-first 31 after the issuance of the license."

F.     Sections 61-6-300, 61-6-310, 61-6-320, 61-6-330, 61-6-340, and 61-6-350, of the 1976 Code are repealed.

G.     Subsection A. of this section takes effect upon approval by the Governor and applies for applications pending on that date and for applications filed on or after that date. The remaining provisions of this section take effect July 1, 1998.

SECTION     6.     Section 33-44-801 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 33-44-801.     (a) In this section, "future distributions" means the total distributions that, as of the date of dissociation, are reasonably estimated to be made to the remaining members if the company were continued until the projected date of its termination, reduced by the amount of distributions that would have been made to the remaining members if the business of the company were dissolved and wound up on the date of dissociation.

(b)     A limited liability company is dissolved, and its business must be wound up, upon the occurrence of any of the following events:

(1)     an event specified in the operating agreement;

(2)     consent of the number or percentage of members specified in the operating agreement;

(3) dissociation of a member who is also a manager or, if none, a member of an at-will company, and dissociation of a member who is also a manager or, if none, a member of a term company but only if the dissociation was for a reason provided in Section 33-44-601(7) through (11) and occurred before the expiration of the specified term, but the company is not dissolved and required to be wound up by reason of the dissociation if:

(i) within ninety days after the dissociation, the business of the company is continued by the agreement of:

(a) the remaining members that would be entitled to receive a majority of any distributions that would be made to them assuming the business of the company were dissolved and wound up on the date of the dissociation; and

(b) the remaining members that would be entitled to receive a majority of any future distributions that would be made to them assuming the business of the company were continued after the date of the dissociation; or

(ii) the business of the company is continued under a right to continue stated in the operating agreement;

(4)     an event that makes it unlawful for all or substantially all of the business of the company to be continued, but any a cure of illegality within ninety days after notice to the company of the event is effective retroactively to the date of the event for purposes of this section;

(5)(4)     on application by a member or a dissociated member, upon entry of a judicial decree that:

(i)(a)     the economic purpose of the company is likely to be unreasonably frustrated;

(ii)(b)     another member has engaged in conduct relating to the company's business that makes it not reasonably practicable to carry on the company's business with that member;

(iii)(c)     it is not otherwise reasonably practicable to carry on the company's business in conformity with the articles of organization and the operating agreement;

(iv)(d)     the company failed to purchase the petitioner's distributional interest as required by Section 33-44-701; or

(v)(e)     the managers or members in control of the company have acted, are acting, or will act in a manner that is illegal, oppressive, fraudulent, or unfairly prejudicial to the petitioner; or

(6)(5)     on application by a transferee of a member's interest, a judicial determination that it is equitable to wind up the company's business:

(i)(a)     after the expiration of the specified term, if the company was for a specified term at the time the applicant became a transferee by way of member dissociation, transfer, or entry of a charging order that gave rise to the transfer; or

(ii)(b)     at any time, if the company was existed at will at the time the applicant became a transferee by way of member dissociation, transfer, or entry of a charging order that gave rise to the transfer."

SECTION     7.     Section 33-44-103(b)(6) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(6)     vary the requirement to wind up the limited liability company's business in a case specified in Section 33-44-801(b)(4) (3) or (4) (b)(5); or"

SECTION     8.     Section 33-44-404(a)(2) and (b)(2) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(2)     except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) or in Section 33-44-801(b)(3)(i), any matter relating to the business of the company may be decided by a majority of the members.

(2)     except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) or in Section 33-44-801(b)(3)(i), any matter relating to the business of the company may be exclusively decided by the manager or, if there is more than one manager, by a majority of the managers; and".

SECTION     9.     Section 33-44-503(e) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(e)     A transferee who does not become a member is entitled to shall:

(1)     receive, in accordance with the transfer, distributions to which the transferor would otherwise be entitled;

(2)     receive, upon dissolution, and winding up of the limited liability company's business:

(i)     in accordance with the transfer, the net amount otherwise distributable to the transferor;

(ii)     a statement of account only from the date of the latest statement of account agreed to by all the members;

(3)     seek under Section 33-44-801(b)(6)(5) a judicial determination that it is equitable to dissolve and wind up the company's business."

SECTION     10.     Section 33-44-603 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 33-44-603.     (a)     If under Section 33-44-801 Upon a member's dissociation from a limited liability company results in a dissolution and winding up of the company's business, Article 8 applies. If a member's dissociation from the company does not result in a dissolution and winding up of the company's business under Section 33-44-801:

(1)     in an at-will company, the company must cause the dissociated member's distributional interest to be purchased under Article 7; and

(2)     in a term company, if the company:

(i)(a)     if the company dissolves and winds up its business on or before the expiration of its specified term, Article 8 applies to determine the dissociated member's rights to distributions; and

(ii)(b)     if the company does not dissolve and wind up its business on or before the expiration of its specified term, the company must cause the dissociated member's distributional interest to be purchased under Article 7 on the date of the expiration of the term specified at the time of the member's dissociation.;

(b)     Upon a member's dissociation from a limited liability company:

(1)(3)     the member's right to participate in the management and conduct of the company's business terminates, except as otherwise provided in Section 33-44-803, and the member ceases to be a member and is treated the same as a transferee of a member;

(2)(4)     the member's duty of loyalty under Section 33-44-409(b)(3) terminates; and

(3)(5)     the member's duty of loyalty under Section 33-44-409(b)(1) and (2) and duty of care under Section 33-44-409(c) continue only with regard to matters arising and events occurring before the member's dissociation, unless the member participates in winding up the company's business pursuant to Section 33-44-803."

SECTION     11.     Section 33-44-701(c) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(c)     If the price and other terms of a purchase of a distributional interest are fixed or are to be determined by the operating agreement, the price and terms so fixed or determined govern the purchase unless the purchaser defaults. If a default occurs, the dissociated member is entitled to commence a proceeding to have the company dissolved under pursuant to Section 33-44-801(b)(5)(iv)(4)(d)."

SECTION     12.     A.     Section 12-37-2810 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 461 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 12-37-2810.     As used in this article, unless the context requires otherwise:

(A)     'Motor carrier' means a person who owns, controls, operates, manages, or leases a motor vehicle or bus for the transportation of property or persons in intrastate or interstate commerce except for scheduled intercity bus service. A motor carriers are further carrier is defined further as being a South Carolina-based International Registration Plan registrant or owning or leasing real property within this State used directly in the transportation of freight or persons.

(B) 'Motor vehicle' means a motor propelled vehicle used for the transportation of property on a public highway with a gross vehicle weight of greater than twenty-six thousand pounds.

(C)     'Highway' means all public roads, highways, streets, and ways in this State, whether within a municipality or outside of a municipality.

(D)     'Person' means any individual, corporation, firm, partnership, company or association, and includes a guardian, trustee, executor, administrator, receiver, conservator, or a person acting in a fiduciary capacity.

(E)     'Semitrailers' means every vehicle with or without motive power, other than a pole trailer, designed for carrying property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and constructed so that a part of its weight and of its load rests upon or is carried by another vehicle.

(F)     'Trailers' means every vehicle with or without motive power, other than a pole trailer, designed for carrying property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and constructed so that no part of its weight rests upon the towing vehicle.

(G)     'Bus' means every motor vehicle designed for carrying more than sixteen passengers and used for the transportation of persons, for compensation, other than a taxicab or intercity bus."

B.     Section 12-37-2820 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 125 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 12-37-2820.     (A)     The Department of Revenue annually shall assess, equalize, and apportion the valuation of all motor vehicles of motor carriers. The valuation must be based on fair market value for the motor vehicles and an assessment ratio of nine and one-half percent as provided by Section 12-43-220(g). Fair market value is determined by depreciating the gross capitalized cost of each motor vehicle by an annual percentage depreciation allowance down to ten percent of the cost as follows:

(1) Year One         -         .90

(2) Year Two         -         .80

(3) Year Three         -         .65

(4) Year Four         -         .50

(5) Year Five             -         .35

(6) Year Six             -         .25

(7) Year Seven         -         .20

(8) Year Eight         -         .15

(9) Year Nine         -         .10

(B)     'Gross capitalized cost', as used in this section, means the original cost upon acquisition for income tax purposes, not to include taxes, interest, or cab customizing."

C.     Section 12-37-2830 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 125 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 12-37-2830.     The value of a motor carrier's vehicles subject to property taxes in this State must be determined by the Department of Revenue based on the ratio of total mileage operated within this State during the preceding calendar year to the total mileage of its entire fleet operated within and without this State during the same preceding calendar year."

D.     Section 12-37-2840 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 125 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 12-37-2840.     Motor carriers must file an annual property tax return with the Department of Revenue no later than the thirtieth day of June 30 for the preceding calendar year and remit one-half or the entire tax due as stated on the return. If the motor carrier fails to file its return, the department shall issue a proposed assessment which assumes all mileage was within this State. If one-half of the tax is remitted on or before June 30, the remaining one-half of the tax due must be paid to the Department of Revenue on or before December 31. If the motor carrier fails to remit tax due pursuant to this section, the department shall issue a notice to the motor carrier demanding payment for the entire amount shown to be due. If the motor carrier fails to remit the tax due within thirty days of receipt of the notice, the Department of Revenue shall notify the Department of Public Safety, which must may not renew the registrations of the motor vehicles required by this article to be on the property tax return. A twenty-five percent penalty must be added to the property tax due and the tax and penalty must be paid in full by cashier's check, money order, or cash. The penalty required by this section is instead of all other penalties and interest required by law.

Upon payment in full, the Department of Revenue shall notify the Department of Public Safety which then shall allow for registrations of the motor vehicles."

E.     Section 12-37-2850 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 125 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 12-37-2850.     The Department of Revenue shall assess annually the taxes due based on the value determined in Section 12-28-2820 and an average millage for all purposes statewide for the current preceding calendar year and shall publish the average millage for the preceding year by June 1 of each year. The average millage may be increased to cover loss of revenue incurred by the Department of Revenue from not licensing trailers. The taxes assessed must be paid to the Department of Revenue no later than December thirty-first 31 of each year and may be made in two equal installments. Distribution of the taxes paid must be made by the State Treasurer's Office based on the distribution formula contained in Section 12-37-2870."

F.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor for calendar years beginning after December 31, 1997.

SECTION     13.     Section 4-10-40(B) of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 109 of 1991, is further amended to read:

"(B)(1)     All of the revenue received by a county and municipality from the Property Tax Credit Fund must be used to provide a credit against the property tax liability of taxpayers in the county and municipality in an amount determined by multiplying the appraised value of the taxpayer's taxable property by a fraction in which the numerator is the total estimated revenue received by the county or municipality from the Property Tax Credit Fund during the applicable fiscal year of the political subdivision and the denominator is the total of the appraised value of taxable property in the county or municipality as of January first 1 of the applicable taxable year.

(2)     For purposes of this chapter:

(a)     property tax liability includes liability to pay fees in lieu of property taxes;

(b)     taxable property includes exempt property for which the owner must pay fees in lieu of property taxes; and

(c)     reference to liability for fees in lieu of tax applies to fees arising pursuant to Section 4-1-170 in connection with location in a multi-county industrial or business park as provided in Section 13 of Article VIII of the Constitution of the State of South Carolina."

SECTION 14. A.     Section 12-14-40 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 25 of 1995, is amended to read:

"Section 12-14-40.     (A)     The designation of an area as an economic impact zone must be made by the State Budget and Control Board. It remains in effect during the period beginning on the date the board designates the area an economic impact zone and ending on the earlier of:

(1)     December thirty-first of the fifteenth calendar year following the calendar year in which the designation occurs, or

(2)     a termination date designated by legislative enactment of the General Assembly.

(B)     A designation may be revoked by the General Assembly only after a hearing on the record in which officials of the county or municipality involved may participate."

B.     Section 12-14-60 of the 1976 Code, as amended by Act 151 of 1997, is further amended to read:

"Section 12-14-60.     (A)     (1)     There is allowed as a an economic impact zone investment tax credit against the tax imposed pursuant to Chapter 7 6 of this title an economic impact zone investment tax credit for any taxable year in which the taxpayer places in service an amount equal to five percent of the aggregate bases of economic impact zone qualified manufacturing and productive equipment properties property. placed in service during such taxable year in the economic impact zone.

(2)     The amount of the credit allowed by this section is equal to the aggregate of:

three-year property         one percent of total aggregate bases for all three-year property that qualifies;

five-year property             two percent of total aggregate bases for all five-year property that qualifies;

seven-year property         three percent of total aggregate bases for all seven-year property that qualifies;

ten-year property             four percent of total aggregate bases for all ten-year property that qualifies;

fifteen-year property    

or greater                         five percent of total aggregate bases for all fifteen-year or greater property that qualifies.

For purposes of this section, whether property is three-year property, five-year property, seven-year property, ten-year property, or fifteen-year property is determined based on the applicable recovery period for such property under Section 168(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.

(B)     For purposes of this section:

(1)     'economic impact zone qualified manufacturing and productive equipment property' means any property:

(a)     which is used as an integral part of manufacturing, or production, or used as an integral part of extraction of or furnishing transportation, communications, electrical energy, gas, water, or sewage disposal services in the economic impact zone;

(b)     which is tangible property to which Section 168 of the Internal Revenue Code applies;

(c)     which is Section 1245 property (as defined in Section 1245(a)(3)of the Internal Revenue Code); and

(d)(i)     the construction, reconstruction, or erection of which is completed by the taxpayer in the economic impact zone; or

(ii)     which is acquired by the taxpayer if the original use of such property commences with the taxpayer inside the economic impact zone.

(2)     In the case of any computer software which is used to control or monitor a manufacturing or production process inside the economic impact zone and with respect to which depreciation (or amortization in lieu of depreciation) is allowable, the software must be treated as qualified manufacturing and productive equipment property.

(C)     This section does not apply to any property to which the other tax credits would apply unless the taxpayer elects to waive the application of the other credits to the property.

(D)     Unused credit allowed pursuant to this section may be carried forward for ten years from the close of the tax year in which the credit was earned.

(E)     If during any taxable year and before the end of applicable recovery period for such property as determined under Section 168(e) of the Internal Revenue Code, the taxpayer disposes of or removes from the economic impact zone, economic impact zone qualified manufacturing and productive equipment property, then the tax due under Chapter 6 by the taxpayer for the current taxable year must be increased by an amount of any credit claimed in prior years with respect to such property determined by assuming the credit is earned ratably over the useful life of the property and recapturing pro rata the unearned portion of the credit.

(F)     For South Carolina income tax purposes, the basis of the economic impact zone qualified manufacturing and productive equipment property must be reduced by the amount of any credit claimed with respect to the property. If a taxpayer is required to recapture the economic impact zone investment tax credit in accordance with subsection (E), the taxpayer may increase the basis of the property by the amount of any basis reduction attributable with claiming the economic impact zone investment tax credit in prior years. The basis must be increased in the year in which the credit is recaptured.

(G)     Credits claimed under this section for taxable years beginning after 1997 for investments made before July 1, 1998, may not reduce a taxpayer's state income tax liability by more than fifty percent.

(H)     The credit allowed by this section for investments made after June 30, 1998, is limited to no more than five million dollars for an entity subject to the license tax as provided in Section 12-20-100.

(I)     Notwithstanding any amendments to Section 12-14-60 of the 1976 Code enacted in the 1998 session of the General Assembly reducing the percentage amount of the economic impact zone investment tax credit or otherwise reducing the amount of the credit allowed, in the case of investments at a project operated by a company pursuant to a revitalization agreement entered into between the company and the South Carolina Advisory Council for Economic Development effective on or before July 1, 1996, the provisions of Section 12-14-60 in existence prior to the 1998 amendment shall apply."

SECTION     15.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Amend title to conform.
/TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-710, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO EXEMPT KEROSENE IN CERTAIN INSTANCES AND MOTOR FUEL USED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS BY STATE-FUNDED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1730, RELATING TO PENALTIES IN CONNECTION WITH TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CIVIL PENALTIES WHICH MAY BE IMPOSED REGARDING THE SALE OR USE OF DYED FUEL; TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-31-220 AND 12-31-250 RELATING TO TEMPORARY AND BIENNIAL REGISTRATION CARDS AND IDENTIFICATION MARKERS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS; TO AMEND ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 49, TITLE 12, RELATING TO LIENS AND SUITS FOR THE ENFORCED COLLECTION OF TAXES, BY ADDING SECTION 12-49-85 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE REMOVAL OF A TAX, ASSESSMENT, OR PENALTY WHICH PROVES TO BE UNCOLLECTIBLE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-251, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION FROM PROPERTY TAXES LEVIED FOR SCHOOL OPERATIONS, SO AS TO DELETE LANGUAGE REFERRING TO THE CALCULATION OF THE ROLLBACK MILLAGE IN A YEAR OF REASSESSMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-43-220, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO ASSESSMENT RATIOS FOR PROPERTY TAXES, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE OWNER-OCCUPANT OF A LEGAL RESIDENCE THAT IS BEING PURCHASED BY CONTRACT OF SALE TO RECORD THE CONTRACT IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR THE FOUR PERCENT ASSESSMENT RATIO; TO AMEND SECTION 12-54-85, RELATING TO TIME LIMITATIONS FOR ASSESSMENT OF TAXES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE ASSESSMENT OF THE TAX OCCURS ON THE LATER OF THE LAST DAY THE TAX MAY BE PAID WITHOUT PENALTY OR THE DATE OF THE TAX NOTICE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-2520, RELATING TO TAXPAYER OBJECTION TO A PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AGREEMENT WITH THE OBJECTION WITHOUT A CONFERENCE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-60-2910, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAXPAYER OBJECTION TO A PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT OR A DENIAL OF A HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, SO AS TO CONFORM THE DEFINITION OF WHEN THE ASSESSMENT OF THE TAX OCCURS; TO REPEAL SECTION 12-43-225, RELATING TO SPECIAL ASSESSMENT RATIOS, AND SECTION 12-49-80, RELATING TO LAWSUITS BY THE STATE TO COLLECT BACK TAXES; TO AMEND SECTION 61-2-100, RELATING TO PERSONS ALLOWED TO BE LICENSEES OR PERMITTEES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE FOR PURPOSES OF SELLING ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS, BEER, AND WINE, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF A LICENSE OR PERMIT TO AN INDIVIDUAL OR TO A BUSINESS OR OTHER ENTITY AND TO ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR BEING ISSUED THE LICENSE OR PERMIT; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-505, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF A TEMPORARY LICENSE TO THE PURCHASER OF A RETAIL BUSINESS WHICH SELLS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, SO AS TO INCLUDE ONE WHO ACQUIRES THE BUSINESS BY TRANSFER OTHER THAN PURCHASE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2005, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF A TEMPORARY LICENSE TO THE PURCHASER OF A RETAIL BUSINESS WHICH SELLS ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS IN MINIBOTTLES, SO AS TO INCLUDE ONE WHO ACQUIRES THE BUSINESS BY TRANSFER OTHER THAN PURCHASE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-4-210, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF A TEMPORARY LICENSE TO THE PURCHASER OF A RETAIL BUSINESS WHICH SELLS BEER OR WINE, SO AS TO INCLUDE ONE WHO ACQUIRES THE BUSINESS BY TRANSFER OTHER THAN PURCHASE; TO AMEND SECTION 61-6-2890, RELATING TO STORAGE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS IN A WAREHOUSE, SO AS TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT OF A BOND; TO REPEAL SECTIONS 61-6-300, 61-6-310, 61-6-320, 61-6-330, 61-6-340, AND 61-6-350, ALL RELATING TO LICENSE BONDS FOR MANUFACTURERS, RETAILERS, AND WHOLESALERS OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-801, RELATING TO THE DISSOLUTION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO DELETE THE DISSOCIATION OF A MEMBER AS A DISSOLVING EVENT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-103, RELATING TO THE OPERATING AGREEMENT OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AND SECTION 33-44-404, RELATING TO MANAGEMENT OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, BOTH SO AS TO REFLECT THE DELETION OF THE DISSOCIATION OF A MEMBER AS A DISSOLVING EVENT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-503, RELATING TO RIGHTS OF A TRANSFEREE OF AN INTEREST IN A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, SO AS TO RENUMBER A CROSS REFERENCE TO SECTION 33-44-801; TO AMEND SECTION 33-44-603, RELATING TO THE EFFECT OF A MEMBER'S DISSOCIATION FROM A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AND SECTION 33-44-701, RELATING TO COMPANY PURCHASE OF AN INTEREST IN A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, BOTH SO AS TO REFLECT THE DELETION OF THE DISSOCIATION OF A MEMBER AS A DISSOLVING EVENT; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2810, RELATING TO MOTOR CARRIERS FOR PURPOSES OF ASSESSMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES, SO AS TO INCLUDE "BUS" IN THE DEFINITIONS OF A MOTOR VEHICLE OF MOTOR CARRIER; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2820, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE VALUATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES OF MOTOR CARRIERS, SO AS TO DEFINE "GROSS CAPITALIZED COST"; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2830, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE VALUATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES OF MOTOR CARRIERS, SO AS TO DELETE REFERENCE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2840, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE FAILURE OF A MOTOR CARRIER TO FILE AN ANNUAL PROPERTY TAX RETURN, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR A PROPOSED ASSESSMENT BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE WHICH ASSUMES ALL MILEAGE WAS WITHIN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 12-37-2850, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A STATEWIDE AVERAGE MILLAGE FOR ASSESSMENT OF TAXES ON MOTOR VEHICLES OF MOTOR CARRIERS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE PUBLISHING OF THE AVERAGE MILLAGE BY JUNE 1; TO AMEND SECTION 4-10-40, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CREDIT OF REVENUES FROM THE PROPERTY TAX CREDIT FUND TO PROPERTY TAX LIABILITY, SO AS TO INCLUDE LIABILITY FOR FEES IN LIEU OF TAXES ARISING OUT OF LOCATION IN A MULTI-COUNTY INDUSTRIAL OR BUSINESS PARK; TO AMEND SECTION 12-14-40, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF AN ECONOMIC IMPACT ZONE, SO AS TO DELETE THE FIFTEEN-YEAR "SUNSET" ON SUCH ZONES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-14-60, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE STATE INCOME TAX INVESTMENT CREDIT ALLOWED FOR CERTAIN INVESTMENTS IN ECONOMIC IMPACT ZONES, SO AS TO DELETE THE FIVE PERCENT CREDIT AND REPLACE IT WITH A GRADUATED PERCENTAGE FROM ONE TO FIVE PERCENT BASED ON THE INVESTMENT'S USEFUL LIFE AND TO LIMIT THE TOTAL CREDIT ALLOWED A UTILITY FOR INVESTMENTS MADE AFTER JUNE 30, 1998, TO FIVE MILLION DOLLARS, LIMIT ALL CREDITS FOR INVESTMENTS MADE BEFORE JULY 1, 1998, TO NO MORE THAN FIFTY PERCENT OF THE TAX LIABILITY, AND TO MAKE OTHER TECHNICAL CHANGES; AND TO PROVIDE VARIOUS EFFECTIVE DATES./

/s/John W. Drummond               /s/Henry E. Brown, Jr.
/s/John C. Land                   /s/William D. Boan
/s/Glenn F. McConnell             /s/Annette Young-Brickell
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

The Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 3300--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS GRANTED

Rep. STODDARD moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request.

H. 3300 -- Reps. Breeland, Cave, Inabinett, Mack, J. Hines, Govan, M. Hines, J. Brown, Lloyd, Pinckney and Byrd: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND LICENSING, BY ADDING ARTICLE 78 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LICENSE PLATES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF FEES COLLECTED.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 101; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Bailey                 Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bauer
Beck                   Boan                   Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Brown, T.              Byrd
Campsen                Cato                   Cave
Chellis                Clyburn                Cooper
Cotty                  Dantzler               Delleney
Edge                   Emory                  Felder
Fleming                Gamble                 Gourdine
Govan                  Harrell                Harris
Harrison               Harvin                 Haskins
Hawkins                Hines, J.              Hinson
Howard                 Inabinett              Jennings
Keegan                 Kelley                 Kennedy
Kinon                  Kirsh                  Klauber
Knotts                 Koon                   Lanford
Law                    Leach                  Lee
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Mack
Martin                 Mason                  McCraw
McGee                  McKay                  McLeod
McMahand               McMaster               Meacham
Miller                 Moody-Lawrence         Neilson
Pinckney               Quinn                  Rhoad
Rice                   Riser                  Robinson
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scott
Seithel                Sharpe                 Sheheen
Simrill                Smith, D.              Smith, J.
Smith, R.              Spearman               Stille
Stoddard               Stuart                 Townsend
Trotter                Vaughn                 Webb
Whatley                Wilder                 Wilkes
Wilkins                Witherspoon            Woodrum
Young                  Young-Brickell

Total--101

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.

The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference, the SPEAKER appointed Reps. STODDARD, LEACH and WOODRUM to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 3300---FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 3300 -- Reps. Breeland, Cave, Inabinett, Mack, J. Hines, Govan, M. Hines, J. Brown, Lloyd, Pinckney and Byrd: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND LICENSING, BY ADDING ARTICLE 78 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LICENSE PLATES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF FEES COLLECTED.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Section 24 of Act 258 of 1998 is amended to read:

"SECTION     24.     Sections 1, 2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 24 take effect upon approval by the Governor unless otherwise provided. The provision in Section 13 that enhances the suspension period from two years to four years for a third conviction within five years of a first offense of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, drugs, or narcotics shall not apply unless the first, second, and third offense convictions occurred after the effective date of this act. Sections 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, which apply to a person applying for a beginner's permit, provisional or restricted driver's license, or regular motor vehicle driver's license, take effect on July 1, 1998. A person who, on July 1, 1998, is a holder of a valid special restricted license is entitled to retain that license and is exempt from the provisional license requirements. Additionally, a person who is a holder of a valid restricted driver's license on July 1, 1998, may obtain a regular driver's license as contained in Section 56-1-130 before the age of seventeen if, after one year from the date of issuance of the special restricted driver's license, the driver has not been convicted of a point-assessable traffic offense posted to his driver's record during that period. The purpose of this section is to grandfather persons who hold a valid special restricted license on July 1, 1998. No provision in this section must be construed to prevent loss of the holder's licensing privileges for traffic violations or other acts which would otherwise affect his driving privilege. Sections 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 become effective on October 1, 1997."/

SECTION     2.     Section 56-1-141 of the 1976 Code is repealed.

SECTION     3.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

Amend title to read:
/TO AMEND ACT 258 OF 1998, RELATING GENERALLY TO THE ISSUANCE, SUSPENSION, REVOCATION, AND RENEWAL OF A BEGINNER'S PERMIT, SPECIAL RESTRICTED DRIVER'S LICENSE, PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE, AND REGULAR DRIVER'S LICENSE, THE EFFECT OF CERTAIN CONVICTIONS ON A PERSON'S DRIVING RECORD, ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATES FOR COMPLETING A DRIVER TRAINING COURSE, EXCEPTIONS FROM THE DRIVER'S LICENSING REQUIREMENT, THE TESTING OF THE BAC DATAMASTER, THE ISSUANCE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CERTIFICATES, AND THE OPERATION OF COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLES, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO IS A HOLDER OF A SPECIAL RESTRICTED DRIVER'S LICENSE MAY OBTAIN A REGULAR DRIVER'S LICENSE BEFORE THE AGE OF SEVENTEEN UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 56-1-141, RELATING TO THE SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF A QUALIFIED SCHOOL DRIVER'S EDUCATION PROGRAM AS EQUIVALENT TO MEETING THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY'S STANDARDS TO OBTAIN A PERMIT OR DRIVER'S LICENSE./

/s/Kay Patterson                  /s/Eugene C. Stoddard
/s/C. Bradley Hutto               /s/Thomas D. Woodrum
/s/Arthur Ravenel, Jr.            /s/Robert William Leach
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

The Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4824--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS GRANTED

Rep. EASTERDAY moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request.

H. 4824 -- Reps. Inabinett, Seithel, J. Hines, Cromer, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Woodrum, Gourdine, Neal, Breeland, Simrill, Rodgers, Lloyd, Cave, Canty, Vaughn, Moody-Lawrence, Stuart, Byrd, H. Brown, Stille, Hamilton, Wilkins, Harrison, Barrett, Battle, Maddox, Govan, Miller, Jordan and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-1-100 SO AS TO REQUIRE LOCAL ELECTORAL BOARDS TO MAKE LOCAL BALLOT QUESTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE COUNTY NEWS MEDIA AT LEAST FORTY-FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE REFERENDUM, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE ELECTORAL BOARD TO INCLUDE A SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATION OF A REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE BALLOT WHEN IT DETERMINES SUCH AN EXPLANATION NECESSARY, TO PROVIDE A SCHEDULE FOR MAKING THIS EXPLANATION AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA, AND TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUM RESULTS MAY NOT BE CHALLENGED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE SCHEDULE AND A METHOD OF APPEALING A CHALLENGED EXPLANATION; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL BALLOT COMMISSION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE, WHERE IT DETERMINES IT TO BE NECESSARY, SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATIONS OF STATEWIDE REFERENDUM QUESTIONS AND DELETING THE REFERENCE TO "CONSTITUTIONAL" IN THE COMMISSION'S NAME TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE, TO ESTABLISH ACCELERATED DEADLINES FOR THE COMMISSION TO ACT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 102; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Altman                 Bailey
Barfield               Battle                 Bauer
Beck                   Boan                   Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Byrd                   Campsen
Canty                  Cato                   Cave
Chellis                Clyburn                Cobb-Hunter
Cotty                  Dantzler               Delleney
Easterday              Edge                   Emory
Felder                 Fleming                Gamble
Gourdine               Govan                  Hamilton
Harrell                Harris                 Harrison
Harvin                 Haskins                Hawkins
Hines, J.              Hinson                 Howard
Inabinett              Jennings               Keegan
Kelley                 Kinon                  Kirsh
Klauber                Knotts                 Koon
Lanford                Law                    Leach
Limehouse              Littlejohn             Lloyd
Loftis                 Mack                   Maddox
Martin                 Mason                  McAbee
McCraw                 McGee                  McLeod
McMahand               McMaster               Meacham
Miller                 Moody-Lawrence         Neal
Neilson                Pinckney               Quinn
Rhoad                  Rice                   Riser
Robinson               Rodgers                Sandifer
Scott                  Sharpe                 Sheheen
Simrill                Smith, D.              Smith, J.
Smith, R.              Spearman               Stille
Stuart                 Townsend               Trotter
Vaughn                 Webb                   Whatley
Wilder                 Wilkins                Witherspoon
Woodrum                Young                  Young-Brickell

Total--102

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.

The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference, the SPEAKER appointed Reps. EASTERDAY, INABINETT and KNOTTS to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 4824---FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 4824 -- Reps. Inabinett, Seithel, J. Hines, Cromer, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Woodrum, Gourdine, Neal, Breeland, Simrill, Rodgers, Lloyd, Cave, Canty, Vaughn, Moody-Lawrence, Stuart, Byrd, H. Brown, Stille, Hamilton, Wilkins, Harrison, Barrett, Battle, Maddox, Govan, Miller, Jordan and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-1-100 SO AS TO REQUIRE LOCAL ELECTORAL BOARDS TO MAKE LOCAL BALLOT QUESTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE COUNTY NEWS MEDIA AT LEAST FORTY-FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE REFERENDUM, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE ELECTORAL BOARD TO INCLUDE A SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATION OF A REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE BALLOT WHEN IT DETERMINES SUCH AN EXPLANATION NECESSARY, TO PROVIDE A SCHEDULE FOR MAKING THIS EXPLANATION AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA, AND TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUM RESULTS MAY NOT BE CHALLENGED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE SCHEDULE AND A METHOD OF APPEALING A CHALLENGED EXPLANATION; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL BALLOT COMMISSION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE, WHERE IT DETERMINES IT TO BE NECESSARY, SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATIONS OF STATEWIDE REFERENDUM QUESTIONS AND DELETING THE REFERENCE TO "CONSTITUTIONAL" IN THE COMMISSION'S NAME TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE, TO ESTABLISH ACCELERATED DEADLINES FOR THE COMMISSION TO ACT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Chapter 1, Title 7 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 7-1-100.     (A)     If a countywide or less than countywide referendum is held on a question, the electoral board charged with conducting the referendum shall make the ballot question available to the news media in the county at least forty-five days in advance of the date of the referendum.

(B)     If the electoral board determines that a referendum question is of a nature that it might not be clearly understood by the voters, it may prepare a simplified or, when appropriate, more detailed explanation of the question that must be placed on the ballot along with the referendum question. When mechanical devices for voting are used, printed copies of the explanation must be made available at each voting precinct. The explanation provided must be made available to the news media in the county on the same schedule provided in subsection (A).

(C)     No referendum may be challenged on the grounds that the electoral board failed to act in a timely manner to implement this section.

(D)     The provisions of Section 7-13-2130 apply with respect to any proceeding challenging a referendum based on any explanation provided by the electoral board.

(E)     The provisions of this section do not apply to a referendum for which the General Assembly provides the ballot question."

SECTION     2.     This act takes effect January 1, 1999./

Amend title to conform.

/s/Thomas L. Moore                /s/Curtis B. Inabinett
/s/Addison G. "Joe" Wilson        /s/Michael E. "Mike" Easterday
/s/Robert Ford                    /s/John M. "Jake" Knotts, Jr.
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

The Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 3714--CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 3714 -- Reps. Wilkins and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-3-180, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE NAME CHANGE OF A WOMAN UPON DIVORCE AND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF FAMILY COURT, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE FAMILY COURT ALSO TO GRANT A NAME CHANGE UPON AN ORDER OF SEPARATE MAINTENANCE.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Section 20-3-180 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 20-3-180.     The court may, upon the granting of final judgment of divorce or an order of separate maintenance, may allow a wife party to resume her maiden name a former surname or the name surname of any a former husband spouse."

SECTION     2.     Section 20-7-420(8) of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"(8)     To hear and determine actions for changing names, whether in connection with a divorce or a separate support and maintenance action or apart therefrom."

SECTION     3.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Amend title to conform.

/s/C. Tyrone Courtney             /s/James H. Harrison
Chauncey K. "Greg" Gregory        /s/William "Bill" Clyburn
/s/Darrell Jackson                /s/William F. "Bill" Cotty
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

Rep. COTTY explained the Conference Report.

The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on R. 435, S. 1219 by a vote of 46 to 0.
(R435) S. 1219 -- Senator Land: AN ACT TO AMEND ACT 375 OF 1947, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CLARENDON HOSPITAL DISTRICT, SO AS TO REVISE THE POWERS OF THE DISTRICT'S BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND TO PROVIDE THAT EIGHT MEMBERS OF THE BOARD ARE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR UPON RECOMMENDATION OF A MAJORITY OF THE CLARENDON COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INSTEAD OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE COUNTY.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

R. 435; S. 1219--GOVERNOR'S VETO OVERRIDDEN
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

June 8, 1998
The Honorable Robert L. Peeler
President of the Senate
Post Office Box 142
Columbia, S.C. 29202

Dear Mr. President and Members of the Senate:

I am hereby returning without my signature S. 1219, R. 435, an Act:
TO AMEND ACT 375 OF 1947, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CLARENDON HOSPITAL DISTRICT, SO AS TO REVISE THE POWERS OF THE DISTRICT'S BOARD OF TRUSTEES.

This veto is based upon my belief that S. 1219, R. 435 of 1998, is unconstitutional. It is clearly an act for a specific county. Article VIII, Section 7 of the South Carolina Constitution states that "[n]o laws for a specific county shall be enacted."

For the above reason, I am returning S. 1219, R. 435, without my signature.

Sincerely,
David M. Beasley

The question was put, shall the Act become a part of the law, the veto of his Excellency, the Governor to the contrary notwithstanding, the yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 2; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Harvin                 Young

Total--2

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the veto of the Governor was overridden and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and been granted Free Conference Powers and appointed Senators Moore, Wilson and Ford of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 4824:
H. 4824 -- Reps. Inabinett, Seithel, J. Hines, Cromer, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Woodrum, Gourdine, Neal, Breeland, Simrill, Rodgers, Lloyd, Cave, Canty, Vaughn, Moody-Lawrence, Stuart, Byrd, H. Brown, Stille, Hamilton, Wilkins, Harrison, Barrett, Battle, Maddox, Govan, Miller, Jordan and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-1-100 SO AS TO REQUIRE LOCAL ELECTORAL BOARDS TO MAKE LOCAL BALLOT QUESTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE COUNTY NEWS MEDIA AT LEAST FORTY-FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE REFERENDUM, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE ELECTORAL BOARD TO INCLUDE A SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATION OF A REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE BALLOT WHEN IT DETERMINES SUCH AN EXPLANATION NECESSARY, TO PROVIDE A SCHEDULE FOR MAKING THIS EXPLANATION AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA, AND TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUM RESULTS MAY NOT BE CHALLENGED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE SCHEDULE AND A METHOD OF APPEALING A CHALLENGED EXPLANATION; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL BALLOT COMMISSION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE, WHERE IT DETERMINES IT TO BE NECESSARY, SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATIONS OF STATEWIDE REFERENDUM QUESTIONS AND DELETING THE REFERENCE TO "CONSTITUTIONAL" IN THE COMMISSION'S NAME TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE, TO ESTABLISH ACCELERATED DEADLINES FOR THE COMMISSION TO ACT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 4824:
H. 4824 -- Reps. Inabinett, Seithel, J. Hines, Cromer, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Woodrum, Gourdine, Neal, Breeland, Simrill, Rodgers, Lloyd, Cave, Canty, Vaughn, Moody-Lawrence, Stuart, Byrd, H. Brown, Stille, Hamilton, Wilkins, Harrison, Barrett, Battle, Maddox, Govan, Miller, Jordan and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-1-100 SO AS TO REQUIRE LOCAL ELECTORAL BOARDS TO MAKE LOCAL BALLOT QUESTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE COUNTY NEWS MEDIA AT LEAST FORTY-FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE REFERENDUM, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE ELECTORAL BOARD TO INCLUDE A SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATION OF A REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE BALLOT WHEN IT DETERMINES SUCH AN EXPLANATION NECESSARY, TO PROVIDE A SCHEDULE FOR MAKING THIS EXPLANATION AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA, AND TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUM RESULTS MAY NOT BE CHALLENGED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE SCHEDULE AND A METHOD OF APPEALING A CHALLENGED EXPLANATION; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL BALLOT COMMISSION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE, WHERE IT DETERMINES IT TO BE NECESSARY, SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATIONS OF STATEWIDE REFERENDUM QUESTIONS AND DELETING THE REFERENCE TO "CONSTITUTIONAL" IN THE COMMISSION'S NAME TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE, TO ESTABLISH ACCELERATED DEADLINES FOR THE COMMISSION TO ACT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has overridden the veto by the Governor on H. 5143 by a vote of 46 to 0.
(R501) H. 5143 -- Rep. Fleming: AN ACT TO ENACT THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF UNION COUNTY SCHOOL BOND-PROPERTY TAX RELIEF ACT SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE IMPLEMENTATION FOLLOWING REFERENDUM APPROVAL OF A SALES AND USE TAX IN UNION COUNTY NOT TO EXCEED TWO PERCENT FOR DEBT SERVICE ON GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS ISSUED FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION OR FOR DIRECT PAYMENTS FOR SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION; AND TO AMEND ACT 79 OF 1955, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF UNION COUNTY, SO AS TO DELETE PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO CERTAIN PROCEDURAL MATTERS OF THE BOARD AND COMPENSATION OF BOARD MEMBERS.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5252 -- Reps. Scott, J. Brown, Byrd, Cotty, Cromer, Harrison, Howard, McMaster, Neal, Quinn, J. Smith, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, T. Brown, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND THANKING GWENDOLYN DAVIS KENNEDY OF COLUMBIA FOR HER OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVICE AS A MEMBER OF RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL FROM 1993 TO 1997.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The Senate sent to the House the following:

S. 1296 -- Senator Leventis: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING MRS. JAN CAPUTO OF SUMTER COUNTY FOR HER EXCELLENT, DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA AS A HOME HEALTH ADMINISTRATOR AND CONGRATULATING HER ON BEING SELECTED THE 1998 OUTSTANDING STATE EMPLOYEE.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered returned to the Senate with concurrence.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has discharged the Committee of Conference and concurs in the amendments proposed by the House to S. 1253:
S. 1253 -- Senator Mescher: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-120, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO VOTING PRECINCTS IN BERKELEY COUNTY, SO AS TO REDESIGNATE THE BOUNDARIES OF THE DEVON FOREST, STRATFORD, AND WESTVIEW-GOOSE CREEK NO. 3 PRECINCTS AND CHANGE THE MAP REFERENCE TO REFLECT THE CHANGES IN THE BOUNDARIES OF THESE PRECINCTS.
and has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

HOUSE RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5253 -- Reps. Wilkins, Haskins, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Byrd, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Cromer, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Howard,
Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, McMaster, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neal, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Scott, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A HOUSE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE ELIZABETH H. (BETH) ATWATER, ASSISTANT LEGAL COUNSEL TO THE SPEAKER, AND TODD ATWATER ON THE ARRIVAL OF THEIR FIRST CHILD, CAROLINE ELIZABETH, BORN JUNE 12, 1998.

Whereas, the members of the House of Representatives were delighted to learn of the birth of Caroline Elizabeth Atwater, the first child of Elizabeth H. (Beth) Atwater, Assistant Legal Counsel to the Speaker, and Todd Atwater; and

Whereas, this much anticipated arrival, which occurred on June 12, 1998, is met with much joy and celebration by those friends and acquaintances who know the Atwaters; and

Whereas, this blessed event is one we are sure the Atwater family will always remember as the General Assembly closes the curtain of another session; and

Whereas, Beth's contribution to this legislative session is notable because the professionalism and conscientious attitude by which she is known and admired never diminished even in the last weeks of her pregnancy when carrying out her responsibilities became more difficult; and

Whereas, we want Beth and her husband, Todd, to know that we are delighted to have this opportunity to recognize the new addition to their family, Caroline Elizabeth, and share in their joy. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the House of Representatives of the State of South Carolina, by this resolution, congratulate Elizabeth H. (Beth) Atwater, Assistant Legal Counsel to the Speaker, and Todd Atwater on the arrival of their first child, Caroline Elizabeth, born June 12, 1998.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to Elizabeth and Todd Atwater.

The Resolution was adopted.

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

The following was introduced:

H. 5254 -- Reps. Mack, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Byrd, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Cromer, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Howard, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, McMaster, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neal, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Scott, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS OF THE REV. DR. BENJAMIN J. WHIPPER, WHO DIED ON SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 1998.

Whereas, The Rev. Dr. Benjamin J. Whipper, the beloved husband of our former colleague, The Hon. Lucille Simmons Whipper, and the father of our good friend, The Hon. Jackson S. "Seth" Whipper, died Saturday, June 13, 1998, after a long illness; and

Whereas, during his illness Dr. Whipper never gave up the duties of his ministry and was in the pulpit preaching until six months before his death; and

Whereas, Dr. Whipper was born in Early Branch, South Carolina, a son of Joseph Whipper and Katy Walker Whipper Campbell, and moved to North Charleston as a child. He dropped out of eighth grade to help support his family, but later returned to school, received his GED from Florida State University in the 1930's and went on to attend Morris College and Benedict College. He graduated from the Baptist College at Charleston, now Charleston Southern, in 1972 at age 60, having received an honorary doctor of divinity degree in 1967 from Morris College; and

Whereas, Dr. Whipper decided to become a minister at age twenty and studied a Bible story book and a book of sermons to pass the Baptist council test on Bible knowledge; and

Whereas, he served first at Charity Baptist Church and later at St. Matthew Baptist Church, returning to Charity Baptist a few years later; and

Whereas, he worked with the Charleston Naval Supply Center until his retirement in 1972; and

Whereas, Dr. Whipper was the first president of the Baptist Educational Center Foundation of Charleston, a former moderator of the Charleston County Baptist Association, and a former treasurer of the Educational and Missionary Convention of South Carolina; and

Whereas, he served as the Baptist National Convention's assistant secretary and also was a former chairman of the board of directors with the Jenkins Orphanage, a Mason, and a member of the NAACP, the Charleston Black Voters Participation, Alpha Phi Alpha, and the Charleston Election Commission; and

Whereas, Dr. Whipper had a heart for young people as evidenced by his work in setting up several youth ministry programs, concentrating on outreach ministries; and

Whereas, he also set up a countywide tutoring program for adults to help them prepare for the GED, as well as started a radio ministry in 1984 on WZJY; and

Whereas, the B. J. Whipper and Associates for Economic Progress which allowed members to make loans among themselves at low interest rates and to help encourage long-range investments was organized by The Rev. Dr. Benjamin J. Whipper; and

Whereas, Dr. Whipper was a quiet but effective leader and was loved and admired by all who knew him; and

Whereas, few South Carolinians have impacted the State of South Carolina as did The Rev. Dr. Benjamin J. Whipper during his eighty-five years and he will be sorely missed by his wife, Lucille, and two sons, the Rev. B. J. Whipper, Jr., and Rep. J. Seth Whipper, and four daughters, Ogretta W. Hawkins, Rosmond Whipper-Black, D'Jaris D. Whipper-Lewis, and Cheryl Whipper-Hamilton, three sisters, Helen W. Joy, Josie Bell W. Smith, and Ardel Whipper, fifteen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and his many, many friends and congregation; and

Whereas, it is only fitting and proper that the members of the General Assembly pause in their deliberations to note the passing of so great a son of South Carolina. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the General Assembly hereby extend their deepest sympathy to the family and many friends of The Rev. Dr. Benjamin J. Whipper who died on Saturday, June 13, 1998.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to his family in care of The Hon. Lucille S. Whipper.

The Concurrent Resolution was agreed to and ordered sent to the Senate.

SENATE AMENDMENTS
CONCURRED IN AND BILL ENROLLED

The Senate returned to the House with amendments the following:

H. 5165 -- Rep. Rhoad: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO REQUIRE A REFERENDUM TO BE CONDUCTED AT THE TIME OF THE GENERAL ELECTION OF 1998, AT WHICH TIME THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF BAMBERG COUNTY SHALL DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT THE BAMBERG COUNTY HOSPITAL REMAINS OPEN AND TO PROVIDE THAT IF A MAJORITY OF THE ELECTORS VOTING IN THE REFERENDUM VOTE "YES", THE HOSPITAL MAY NOT BE CLOSED FOR THREE YEARS.

The Senate amendments were agreed to, and the Joint Resolution, having received three readings in both Houses, it was ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

The SPEAKER granted Rep. WILKES a leave of absence.

H. 3603--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS REJECTED

Rep. CAMPSEN moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request.

H. 3603 -- Reps. Allison, Rice, Barrett, Seithel, Leach, Chellis, Simrill, Hinson, Spearman, Phillips, Bailey, Cato, McCraw, Sandifer, Walker, Limbaugh, Riser, Kinon, Young, R. Smith, Easterday, Rhoad, Mason, Gamble, Harvin, Bauer, Moody-Lawrence, Miller, Stuart, Limehouse, McMaster and Battle: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONDUCT TOWARD A CHILD BY PERSONS HAVING CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF THE CHILD, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE A PERSON RESIDING IN THE HOUSE OF A CHILD, OR HAVING RECURRING ACCESS TO A CHILD, OR WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR A CHILD IN PLACE OF A PERSON WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE AND SUPPORT OF A CHILD, AND TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON WHO HAS CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF A CHILD TO PLACE THE CHILD IN A SITUATION THAT WOULD LIKELY LEAD TO ABANDONMENT.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 75; Nays 4

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Bailey                 Barfield               Barrett
Bauer                  Beck                   Boan
Bowers                 Brown, G.              Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Campsen                Cato
Chellis                Cooper                 Cotty
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Emory                  Gamble                 Gourdine
Govan                  Hamilton               Harrell
Harris                 Harrison               Harvin
Haskins                Hinson                 Keegan
Kinon                  Kirsh                  Klauber
Knotts                 Koon                   Lanford
Law                    Leach                  Lee
Loftis                 Maddox                 Martin
McAbee                 McCraw                 McGee
McLeod                 McMaster               Meacham
Miller                 Moody-Lawrence         Quinn
Rhoad                  Riser                  Robinson
Rodgers                Sandifer               Scott
Seithel                Sheheen                Simrill
Smith, D.              Smith, J.              Smith, R.
Spearman               Stille                 Stoddard
Stuart                 Townsend               Trotter
Webb                   Whatley                Wilkins
Woodrum                Young                  Young-Brickell

Total--75

Those who voted in the negative are:

Allison                Davenport              Hawkins
McMahand

Total--4

So, Free Conference Powers were rejected.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 4824:
H. 4824 -- Reps. Inabinett, Seithel, J. Hines, Cromer, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Woodrum, Gourdine, Neal, Breeland, Simrill, Rodgers, Lloyd, Cave, Canty, Vaughn, Moody-Lawrence, Stuart, Byrd, H. Brown, Stille, Hamilton, Wilkins, Harrison, Barrett, Battle, Maddox, Govan, Miller, Jordan and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-1-100 SO AS TO REQUIRE LOCAL ELECTORAL BOARDS TO MAKE LOCAL BALLOT QUESTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE COUNTY NEWS MEDIA AT LEAST FORTY-FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE REFERENDUM, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE ELECTORAL BOARD TO INCLUDE A SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATION OF A REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE BALLOT WHEN IT DETERMINES SUCH AN EXPLANATION NECESSARY, TO PROVIDE A SCHEDULE FOR MAKING THIS EXPLANATION AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA, AND TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUM RESULTS MAY NOT BE CHALLENGED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE SCHEDULE AND A METHOD OF APPEALING A CHALLENGED EXPLANATION; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL BALLOT COMMISSION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE, WHERE IT DETERMINES IT TO BE NECESSARY, SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATIONS OF STATEWIDE REFERENDUM QUESTIONS AND DELETING THE REFERENCE TO "CONSTITUTIONAL" IN THE COMMISSION'S NAME TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE, TO ESTABLISH ACCELERATED DEADLINES FOR THE COMMISSION TO ACT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification:
H. 4824 -- Reps. Inabinett, Seithel, J. Hines, Cromer, M. Hines, Littlejohn, Woodrum, Gourdine, Neal, Breeland, Simrill, Rodgers, Lloyd, Cave, Canty, Vaughn, Moody-Lawrence, Stuart, Byrd, H. Brown, Stille, Hamilton, Wilkins, Harrison, Barrett, Battle, Maddox, Govan, Miller, Jordan and Cato: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 7-1-100 SO AS TO REQUIRE LOCAL ELECTORAL BOARDS TO MAKE LOCAL BALLOT QUESTIONS AVAILABLE TO THE COUNTY NEWS MEDIA AT LEAST FORTY-FIVE DAYS IN ADVANCE OF THE REFERENDUM, AND TO AUTHORIZE THE ELECTORAL BOARD TO INCLUDE A SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATION OF A REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE BALLOT WHEN IT DETERMINES SUCH AN EXPLANATION NECESSARY, TO PROVIDE A SCHEDULE FOR MAKING THIS EXPLANATION AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA, AND TO PROVIDE THAT REFERENDUM RESULTS MAY NOT BE CHALLENGED FOR FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE SCHEDULE AND A METHOD OF APPEALING A CHALLENGED EXPLANATION; AND TO AMEND ARTICLE 17, CHAPTER 13, TITLE 7, RELATING TO THE CONSTITUTIONAL BALLOT COMMISSION, SO AS TO EXTEND THE DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE, WHERE IT DETERMINES IT TO BE NECESSARY, SIMPLIFIED EXPLANATIONS OF STATEWIDE REFERENDUM QUESTIONS AND DELETING THE REFERENCE TO "CONSTITUTIONAL" IN THE COMMISSION'S NAME TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE, TO ESTABLISH ACCELERATED DEADLINES FOR THE COMMISSION TO ACT, AND TO MAKE CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.

The Senate has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

H. 4804--CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 4804 -- Rep. Jennings: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1040, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THREATENING THE LIFE, PERSON, OR FAMILY OF A PUBLIC OFFICIAL, TEACHER OR PRINCIPAL, SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL TO THREATEN THE LIFE, PERSON, OR FAMILY OF ANY PUBLIC EMPLOYEE, AND REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Section 16-3-1040 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 579 of 1990, is further amended to read:

"Section 16-3-1040.     (A)     It is unlawful for any a person to knowingly and wilfully to deliver or convey to a public official or to a teacher or principal of an elementary or secondary school any letter or paper, writing, print, missive, document, or electronic communication or any verbal or electronic communication which contains any a threat to take the life of or to inflict bodily harm upon the public official, teacher, or principal, or members of their his immediate families family if the threat is directly related to the public official's, teacher's, or principal's professional responsibilities.

(B)     It is unlawful for a person knowingly and wilfully to deliver or convey to a public employee a letter or paper, writing, print, missive, document, or electronic communication or verbal or electronic communication which contains a threat to take the life of or to inflict bodily harm upon the public employee or members of his immediate family if the threat is directly related to the public employee's official responsibilities.

(C)     Any A person violating who violates the provisions of this section subsection (A) must, upon conviction, must be punished by a term of imprisonment of fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.

(D)     A person who violates the provisions of subsection (B), upon conviction, must be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.

(E)     For purposes of this section:

(1)     'Public official' means any an elected or appointed official of the United States or of this State or of a county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this State.

(2)     'Public employee' means a person employed by the State, a county, a municipality, a school district, or a political subdivision of this State, except that for purposes of this section, a 'public employee' does not include a teacher or principal of an elementary or secondary school.

(3)     'Immediate family' means the spouse, child, grandchild, mother, father, sister, or brother of the public official, teacher, or principal, or public employee."

SECTION     2.     This act is known and may be cited as the "South Carolina School Safety Act of 1998".

SECTION     3.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 5-7-12.     (A)     The governing body of a municipality or county may upon the request of any other governing body or of any other political subdivision of the State, including school districts, designate certain officers to be assigned to the duty of a school resource officer and to work within the school systems of the municipality or county. The person assigned as a school resource officer shall have statewide jurisdiction to arrest persons committing crimes in connection with a school activity or school-sponsored event. When acting pursuant to this section and outside of the sworn municipality or county of the school resource officer, the officer shall enjoy all authority, rights, privileges, and immunities, including coverage under the workers' compensation laws that he would have enjoyed if operating in his sworn jurisdiction.

(B)     For purposes of this section, a 'school resource officer' is defined as a person who is a sworn law enforcement officer pursuant to the requirements of any jurisdiction of this State, who has completed the basic course of instruction for School Resource Officers as provided or recognized by the National Association of School Resource Officers or the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, and who is assigned to one or more school districts within this State to have as a primary duty the responsibility to act as a law enforcement officer, advisor, and teacher for that school district."

SECTION     4.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 59-63-335.     Failure of a school administrator to report criminal conduct as set forth in Section 59-24-60 or failure to report information concerning school-related crime pursuant to Section 59-63-330 shall subject the administrator and the school district to liability for payment of a party's attorney's fees and the costs associated with an action to seek a writ of mandamus to compel the administrator and school district to comply with Section 59-24-60 or 59-63-330."

SECTION     5.     Section 59-63-360 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 324 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 59-63-360.     The Attorney General shall monitor all reported school crimes. The Attorney General or his designee may represent the local school district when the a criminal case is appealed to an appellate court of competent jurisdiction."

SECTION     6.     Section 59-63-370 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 80 of 1997, is amended to read:

"Section 59-63-370.     Notwithstanding any other provision of law:

(1)     When a student who is convicted of or adjudicated delinquent for assault and battery against school personnel, as defined in Section 16-3-612, assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature committed on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event against any person affiliated with the school in an official capacity, or a violent offense as defined in Section 16-1-60, an offense in which a weapon as defined in Section 59-63-370 was used, or for distribution or trafficking in unlawful drugs as defined in Article 3, Chapter 53 of Title 44 is assigned to the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Corrections, or to the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, that agency is required to provide immediate notice of the student's conviction or adjudication to the senior administrator of the school in which the student is enrolled, or intends to be enrolled, or was last enrolled. These agencies are authorized to request information concerning school enrollment from the students a student convicted of or adjudicated delinquent for assault and battery against school personnel or a violent an offense listed in this item.

(2)     When a student convicted of or adjudicated delinquent for assault and battery against school personnel or assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature against school personnel an offense listed in item (1) of this section is not sentenced to incarceration or probation, the presiding judge shall as part of his sentence order the clerk of the municipal, magistrate, or general sessions court to provide, within ten days, notification of the student's sentence to the appropriate school district for inclusion in the student's permanent record. If the student is under the jurisdiction of the family court and is not referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice, the prosecuting agency must provide notification within ten days to the appropriate school district.

(3)     An administrator notified pursuant to this section is required to notify each teacher or instructor in whose class the student is enrolled of a student's conviction of or adjudication for assault and battery against school personnel, assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature against school personnel, or a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60 an offense listed in item (1) of this section. This notification must be made to the appropriate teachers or instructors every year the student is enrolled in school.

(4)     If a student is convicted of or adjudicated delinquent for assault and battery against school personnel, assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature against school personnel, or a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60, an offense listed in item (1) of this section, information concerning the conviction or adjudication and sentencing must be placed in the student's permanent school record and must be forwarded with the student's permanent school records if the student transfers to another school or school district.

A 'weapon', as used in this section, means a firearm, knife with a blade-length of over two inches, dirk, razor, metal knuckles, slingshot, bludgeon, or any other deadly instrument used for the infliction of bodily harm or death."

SECTION     7.     Section 20-7-8505 of the 1976 Code, as added by Act 383 of 1996, is amended to read:

"Section 20-7-8505.     Records and information of the department pertaining to juveniles shall be confidential as provided in Section 20-7-8510; provided, however, that where necessary and appropriate to ensure the provision and coordination of services and assistance to a juvenile under the custody or supervision of the department, the director must establish policies by which the department may transmit such information and records to another department or agency of state or local government, a school district, or a private institution or facility licensed by the State as a child-serving organization, where such is required for admission or enrollment of the juvenile into a program of services, treatment, training, or education. Records and information provided to a public or private school by the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Corrections, or the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services must include in the case of an individual who has been adjudicated for having committed a violent crime as defined in Section 16-1-60, for a crime in which a weapon as defined in Section 59-63-370 was used, for assault and battery against school personnel, as defined in Section 16-3-612, assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature committed on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event against any person affiliated with the school in an official capacity, or for distribution or trafficking in unlawful drugs as defined in Article 3, Chapter 53 of Title 44, a copy of and, if requested, information pertaining to that person's juvenile criminal record notice as set forth in Section 59-63-370. The person's juvenile criminal record must be provided by the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Corrections, or the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services to the principal of the school which the juvenile is eligible to attend immediately upon the person's release from the Department of Juvenile Justice. The person's juvenile criminal record must be provided by the Department of Juvenile Justice to the principal of any school to which the person is seeking enrollment, upon the principal's request. Each school district is responsible for developing a policy for schools to follow within the district which ensures that the confidential nature of these records and of the other information received is maintained. This policy must include at a minimum the retention of the juvenile's criminal record, and other information relating to his criminal record, in the juvenile's school disciplinary file, or in some other confidential location, restricting access to the file and to its contents to school personnel as deemed necessary and appropriate to meet and adequately address the educational needs of the juvenile and for the destruction of these records upon the juvenile's completion of secondary school, or upon reaching twenty-one years of age."

SECTION     8.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Amend title to conform.

/s/James E. Bryan, Jr.            /s/Joseph D. McMaster
/s/Addison G. "Joe" Wilson        /s/Ronald N. Fleming
/s/Robert Ford                    John G. Altman, Jr.
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

Rep. FLEMING explained the Conference Report.

The Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 3603--FREE CONFERENCE POWERS GRANTED

Rep. COTTY moved that the Committee of Conference on the following Bill be resolved into a Committee of Free Conference and briefly explained the Conference Committee's reasons for this request.

H. 3603 -- Reps. Allison, Rice, Barrett, Seithel, Leach, Chellis, Simrill, Hinson, Spearman, Phillips, Bailey, Cato, McCraw, Sandifer, Walker, Limbaugh, Riser, Kinon, Young, R. Smith, Easterday, Rhoad, Mason, Gamble, Harvin, Bauer, Moody-Lawrence, Miller, Stuart, Limehouse, McMaster and Battle: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONDUCT TOWARD A CHILD BY PERSONS HAVING CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF THE CHILD, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE A PERSON RESIDING IN THE HOUSE OF A CHILD, OR HAVING RECURRING ACCESS TO A CHILD, OR WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR A CHILD IN PLACE OF A PERSON WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE AND SUPPORT OF A CHILD, AND TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON WHO HAS CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF A CHILD TO PLACE THE CHILD IN A SITUATION THAT WOULD LIKELY LEAD TO ABANDONMENT.

The yeas and nays were taken resulting as follows:

Yeas 92; Nays 0

Those who voted in the affirmative are:

Allison                Bailey                 Barfield
Barrett                Battle                 Bauer
Beck                   Boan                   Bowers
Breeland               Brown, G.              Brown, H.
Brown, J.              Campsen                Cato
Cave                   Chellis                Clyburn
Cobb-Hunter            Cooper                 Cotty
Cromer                 Dantzler               Davenport
Delleney               Easterday              Edge
Emory                  Gamble                 Gourdine
Govan                  Hamilton               Harris
Harrison               Harvin                 Haskins
Hawkins                Hines, J.              Hinson
Jennings               Keegan                 Kinon
Klauber                Knotts                 Koon
Lanford                Law                    Leach
Lee                    Littlejohn             Lloyd
Loftis                 Mack                   Maddox
Martin                 Mason                  McCraw
McGee                  McLeod                 McMaster
Meacham                Miller                 Moody-Lawrence
Mullen                 Neal                   Neilson
Quinn                  Rhoad                  Rice
Riser                  Robinson               Rodgers
Sandifer               Scott                  Seithel
Sharpe                 Simrill                Smith, D.
Smith, J.              Smith, R.              Spearman
Stille                 Stoddard               Stuart
Townsend               Tripp                  Trotter
Webb                   Wilkins                Woodrum
Young                  Young-Brickell

Total--92

Those who voted in the negative are:

Total--0

So, the motion to resolve the Committee of Conference into a Committee of Free Conference was agreed to.

The Committee of Conference was thereby resolved into a Committee of Free Conference, the SPEAKER appointed Reps. COTTY, CAMPSEN and GOVAN to the Committee of Free Conference and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

H. 3603---FREE CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
FREE CONFERENCE REPORT
The General Assembly, Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998

The COMMITTEE OF FREE CONFERENCE, to whom was referred:
H. 3603 -- Reps. Allison, Rice, Barrett, Seithel, Leach, Chellis, Simrill, Hinson, Spearman, Phillips, Bailey, Cato, McCraw, Sandifer, Walker, Limbaugh, Riser, Kinon, Young, R. Smith, Easterday, Rhoad, Mason, Gamble, Harvin, Bauer, Moody-Lawrence, Miller, Stuart, Limehouse, McMaster and Battle: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONDUCT TOWARD A CHILD BY PERSONS HAVING CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF THE CHILD, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE A PERSON RESIDING IN THE HOUSE OF A CHILD, OR HAVING RECURRING ACCESS TO A CHILD, OR WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR A CHILD IN PLACE OF A PERSON WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE AND SUPPORT OF A CHILD, AND TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON WHO HAS CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF A CHILD TO PLACE THE CHILD IN A SITUATION THAT WOULD LIKELY LEAD TO ABANDONMENT.
Beg leave to report that they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend:

That the same do pass with the following amendments:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting therein the following:

/SECTION     1.     Section 20-7-50 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 450 of 1996, is further amended to read:

"Section 20-7-50.     (A)     It is unlawful for a person who has charge or custody of a child, or who is the parent or guardian of a child, or who is responsible for the care and support welfare of a child as defined in Section 20-7-490(5) to:

(1)     place the child at unreasonable risk of harm affecting the child's life, physical or mental health, or safety;

(2)     do or cause to be done unlawfully or maliciously any bodily harm to the child so that the life or health of the child is endangered or likely to be endangered; or

(3)     wilfully abandon the child.

(B)     A person who violates subsection (A) is guilty of a felony and for each offense, upon conviction, must be fined in the discretion of the court or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both."

SECTION     2.     A.     Section 20-7-8920 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 20-7-8920.     (A)     It is unlawful for a person under the age of twenty-one to purchase or knowingly possess beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage. Possession is prima facie evidence that it was knowingly possessed. A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than twenty-five dollars nor more than one hundred dollars.

(B)     Persons eighteen years of age and over lawfully employed to serve or remove beer, wine, or alcoholic beverages in establishments licensed to sell these beverages are not considered to be in unlawful possession of the beverages during the course and scope of their duties as an employee. The provisions of this subsection do not affect the requirement that a bartender must be at least twenty-one years of age.

(C)     This section does not apply to any employee lawfully engaged in the sale or delivery of these beverages in an unopened container.

(D)     The provisions of this section do not apply to a student who:

(1)     is eighteen years of age or older;

(2)     is enrolled in an accredited college or university and a student in a culinary course which has been approved through review by the State Commission on Higher Education;

(3)     is required to taste, but not consume or imbibe, any beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage as part of the required curriculum; and

(4)     tastes a beverage pursuant to item (3) only for instructional purposes during classes that are part of the curriculum of the accredited college or university.

The beverage must at all times remain in the possession and control of an authorized instructor of the college or university who must be twenty-one years of age or older. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to allow a student under the age of twenty-one to receive any beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage unless the beverage is delivered as part of the student's required curriculum and the beverage is used only for instructional purposes during classes conducted pursuant to the curriculum."

B.     Section 20-7-8925 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 20-7-8925.     (A)     It is unlawful for a person under the age of twenty-one to purchase or knowingly possess alcoholic liquors. Possession is prima facie evidence that it was knowingly possessed. It is also unlawful for a person to falsely represent his age for the purpose of procuring alcoholic liquors.

(B)     A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than one hundred dollars nor more than two hundred dollars or must be imprisoned for not more than thirty days.

(C)     The provisions of this section do not apply to a student who:

(1)     is eighteen years of age or older;

(2)     is enrolled in an accredited college or university and a student in a culinary course which has been approved through review by the State Commission on Higher Education;

(3)     is required to taste, but not consume or imbibe, any alcoholic liquor as part of the required curriculum; and

(4)     tastes the liquor pursuant to item (3) only for instructional purposes during classes that are part of the curriculum of the accredited college or university.

The liquor must at all times remain in the possession and control of an authorized instructor of the college or university who must be twenty-one years of age or older. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to allow a student under the age of twenty-one to receive any alcoholic liquor unless the liquor is delivered as part of the student's required curriculum, and the liquor is used only for instructional purposes during classes conducted pursuant to the curriculum."

C.     Section 61-6-4070 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 61-6-4070.     It is unlawful for a person to transfer or give to a person under the age of twenty-one years for the purpose of consumption alcoholic liquors at any place in the State. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than two hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days. A person found guilty of a violation of Section 61-4-90 and this section may not be sentenced under both sections for the same offense.

The provisions of this section do not apply to a spouse over the age of twenty-one giving alcoholic liquors to his spouse under the age of twenty-one in their home; to a parent or guardian over the age of twenty-one giving alcoholic liquors to his children or wards under the age of twenty-one in their home; or to a person giving alcoholic liquors to another person under the age of twenty-one in conjunction with a religious ceremony or purpose if the alcoholic liquors were lawfully purchased.

The provisions of this section do not apply to a person who gives, serves, or permits to be served any alcoholic liquors to a student under the age of twenty-one, if:

(1)     the person is an authorized instructor of an accredited college or university and is twenty-one years of age or older;

(2)     the student, eighteen years of age or older, is enrolled in the accredited college or university and is a student in a culinary course which has been approved through review by the State Commission on Higher Education, and the liquor is delivered as part of the student's required curriculum and is used only for instructional purposes during classes conducted pursuant to such curriculum;

(3)     the student is required to taste, but not consume or imbibe, the liquor during classes conducted under the supervision of the authorized instructor pursuant to the curriculum;

(4)     the liquor is never offered for consumption or imbibed by the student; and

(5)     the liquor at all times remains in the possession and control of the authorized instructor."

D.     Section 61-4-90 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 61-4-90.     It is unlawful for a person to transfer or give to a person under the age of twenty-one years for the purpose of consumption beer or wine at any place in the State . A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than two hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days. A person found guilty of a violation of Section 61-6-4070 and this section may not be sentenced under both sections for the same offense.

The provisions of this section do not apply to a spouse over the age of twenty-one giving beer or wine to his spouse under the age of twenty-one in their home; to a parent or guardian over the age of twenty-one giving beer or wine to his children or wards under the age of twenty-one in their home; or to a person giving beer or wine to another person under the age of twenty-one in conjunction with a religious ceremony or purpose if the beer or wine was lawfully purchased.

The provisions of this section do not apply to a person who gives, serves, or permits to be served any beer, ale, porter, wine, or other similar malt or fermented beverage to a student under the age of twenty-one if:

(1)     the person is an authorized instructor of an accredited college or university and is twenty-one years of age or older;

(2)     the student, eighteen years of age or older, is enrolled in the accredited college or university and is a student in a culinary course which has been approved through review by the State Commission on Higher Education, and the beverage is delivered as part of the student's required curriculum and is used only for instructional purposes during classes conducted pursuant to such curriculum;

(3)     the student is required to taste, but not consume or imbibe, the beverage during classes conducted under the supervision of the authorized instructor pursuant to the curriculum;

(4)     the beverage is never offered for consumption or imbibed by the student; and

(5)     the beverage at all times remains in the possession and control of the authorized instructor."

SECTION     4.     The 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 59-103-195.     The State Commission on Higher Education shall have review authority in order to determine the legitimacy and appropriateness of the tasting requirements pursuant to Sections 20-7-8920 and 20-7-8925. The commission shall also establish reasonable rules and restrictions through regulation, as appropriate, with regard to any proposed course of instruction in the culinary arts which any private or public institution desires to offer to students under twenty-one years of age in which the tasting of beer, ale, porter, wine or other similar malt or fermented beverage or alcoholic liquor is required. Unless approved by the commission, no such course and no student under twenty-one years of age enrolled in such course shall qualify for the exceptions provided under Sections 20-7-8920, 20-7-8925, 61-6-4070, or 61-4-90. A course of instruction on bartending or any similar curriculum does not qualify for exception or approval by the commission under this section."

SECTION     5.     This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Amend title to conform.

/s/Ernest L. Passailaigue, Jr.    /s/Jerry N. Govan, Jr.
/s/C. Tyrone Courtney             /s/William F. "Bill" Cotty
/s/Maggie W. Glover               /s/George E. "Chip" Campsen III
On Part of the Senate.                 On Part of the House.

The Free Conference Report was adopted and a message was ordered sent to the Senate accordingly.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and been granted Free Conference Powers and appointed Senators Patterson, Hutto and Ravenel of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 3300:
H. 3300 -- Reps. Breeland, Cave, Inabinett, Mack, J. Hines, Govan, M. Hines, J. Brown, Lloyd, Pinckney and Byrd: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND LICENSING, BY ADDING ARTICLE 78 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LICENSE PLATES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF FEES COLLECTED.
Very respectfully,
President

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 3300:
H. 3300 -- Reps. Breeland, Cave, Inabinett, Mack, J. Hines, Govan, M. Hines, J. Brown, Lloyd, Pinckney and Byrd: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 56, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND LICENSING, BY ADDING ARTICLE 78 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LICENSE PLATES AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF FEES COLLECTED.
Very respectfully,
President

H. 3300--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on H. 3714:
H. 3714 -- Reps. Wilkins and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-3-180, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE NAME CHANGE OF A WOMAN UPON DIVORCE AND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF FAMILY COURT, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE FAMILY COURT ALSO TO GRANT A NAME CHANGE UPON AN ORDER OF SEPARATE MAINTENANCE.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on S. 310:
S. 310 -- Banking and Insurance Committee: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 71, TITLE 38, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING ARTICLE 15, SO AS TO ENACT THE SOUTH CAROLINA PATIENTS' INSURANCE AND BENEFITS PROTECTION ACT WHICH DEFINES CERTAIN HEALTH CARE PLANS AND OTHER TERMS; SPECIFIES CERTAIN HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE OPTIONS WHEN THE INSURED OR MEMBER IS EMPLOYED BY AN EMPLOYER THAT HAS MORE THAN FIFTY ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES; AND PROVIDES CERTAIN EXCLUSIONS FROM THE APPLICATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ARTICLE.
Very respectfully,
President

S. 310--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification:
H. 4702 -- Ways and Means Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROPRIATE MONIES FROM THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FISCAL YEAR 1997-98.

The Senate has ordered the Joint Resolution enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification:

H. 4700 -- GENERAL APPROPRIATION BILL

The Senate has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and been granted Free Conference Powers and appointed Senators Drummond, Land and McConnell of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 4535:
H. 4535 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 59, OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 149 SO AS TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER WHICH THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COVER THE COST OF ATTENDANCE UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS TO ELIGIBLE RESIDENT STUDENTS ATTENDING CERTAIN PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3385 SO AS TO ALLOW A REFUNDABLE STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX CREDIT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS FOR TUITION PAID AT A PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TO DEFINE SUCH INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THE CRITERIA STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR THE CREDIT MUST MEET, TO DEFINE TUITION FOR PURPOSES OF THE CREDIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT APPLIES ONLY FOR STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL DURING OR AFTER MAY, 1998.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 4535:
H. 4535 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 59, OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 149 SO AS TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER WHICH THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COVER THE COST OF ATTENDANCE UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS TO ELIGIBLE RESIDENT STUDENTS ATTENDING CERTAIN PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3385 SO AS TO ALLOW A REFUNDABLE STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX CREDIT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS FOR TUITION PAID AT A PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TO DEFINE SUCH INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THE CRITERIA STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR THE CREDIT MUST MEET, TO DEFINE TUITION FOR PURPOSES OF THE CREDIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT APPLIES ONLY FOR STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL DURING OR AFTER MAY, 1998.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification:
H. 4535 -- Ways and Means Committee: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 59, OF THE 1976 CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 149 SO AS TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE INCENTIVES FOR FUTURE EXCELLENCE (LIFE) SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER WHICH THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO COVER THE COST OF ATTENDANCE UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS TO ELIGIBLE RESIDENT STUDENTS ATTENDING CERTAIN PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT TWO-YEAR AND FOUR-YEAR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3385 SO AS TO ALLOW A REFUNDABLE STATE INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX CREDIT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITS FOR TUITION PAID AT A PUBLIC OR INDEPENDENT INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING IN THIS STATE AND TO DEFINE SUCH INSTITUTIONS, TO PROVIDE THE CRITERIA STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR THE CREDIT MUST MEET, TO DEFINE TUITION FOR PURPOSES OF THE CREDIT, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE CREDIT APPLIES ONLY FOR STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL DURING OR AFTER MAY, 1998.

The Senate has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on H. 4851:
H. 4851 -- Rep. Boan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-4-330, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO A WITNESS APPEARING BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMPENSATION OR FEE OF THE WITNESS, OR THAT OF AN OFFICER SERVING PROCESS, BE PAID FROM INCOME TAX REVENUES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3370, RELATING TO A STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT IN CONNECTION WITH A WATER CONTROL SYSTEM, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE REQUIREMENTS IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR THE CREDIT; (SHORT TITLE)
Very respectfully,
President

H. 4851--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and been granted Free Conference Powers and appointed Senators Drummond, Land and McConnell of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 4853:
H. 4853 -- Rep. Boan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-710, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO SET PERCENTAGES OF REFUND FOR TAXABLE MOTOR FUEL USED TO OPERATE CERTAIN POWER TAKE-OFF EQUIPMENT, AND TO EXEMPT KEROSENE IN CERTAIN INSTANCES AND MOTOR FUEL USED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS FOR STATE-FUNDED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1730, RELATING TO PENALTIES IN CONNECTION WITH TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CIVIL PENALTIES WHICH MAY BE IMPOSED REGARDING THE SALE OR USE OF DYED FUEL; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-31-220 AND 12-31-250 RELATING TO TEMPORARY AND BIENNIAL REGISTRATION CARDS AND IDENTIFICATION MARKERS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS.
Very respectfully,
President

Received as information.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 4853:
H. 4853 -- Rep. Boan: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-710, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO SET PERCENTAGES OF REFUND FOR TAXABLE MOTOR FUEL USED TO OPERATE CERTAIN POWER TAKE-OFF EQUIPMENT, AND TO EXEMPT KEROSENE IN CERTAIN INSTANCES AND MOTOR FUEL USED TO TRANSPORT STUDENTS FOR STATE-FUNDED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING; TO AMEND SECTION 12-28-1730, RELATING TO PENALTIES IN CONNECTION WITH TAX ON MOTOR FUEL, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE CIVIL PENALTIES WHICH MAY BE IMPOSED REGARDING THE SALE OR USE OF DYED FUEL; AND TO REPEAL SECTIONS 12-31-220 AND 12-31-250 RELATING TO TEMPORARY AND BIENNIAL REGISTRATION CARDS AND IDENTIFICATION MARKERS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS.
Very respectfully,
President

H. 4853--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has requested and been granted Free Conference Powers and appointed Senators Passailaigue, Courtney and Glover of the Committee of Free Conference on the part of the Senate on H. 3603:
H. 3603 -- Reps. Allison, Rice, Barrett, Seithel, Leach, Chellis, Simrill, Hinson, Spearman, Phillips, Bailey, Cato, McCraw, Sandifer, Walker, Limbaugh, Riser, Kinon, Young, R. Smith, Easterday, Rhoad, Mason, Gamble, Harvin, Bauer, Moody-Lawrence, Miller, Stuart, Limehouse, McMaster and Battle: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONDUCT TOWARD A CHILD BY PERSONS HAVING CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF THE CHILD, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE A PERSON RESIDING IN THE HOUSE OF A CHILD, OR HAVING RECURRING ACCESS TO A CHILD, OR WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR A CHILD IN PLACE OF A PERSON WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE AND SUPPORT OF A CHILD, AND TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON WHO HAS CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF A CHILD TO PLACE THE CHILD IN A SITUATION THAT WOULD LIKELY LEAD TO ABANDONMENT.
Very respectfully,
President

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Free Conference on H. 3603:
H. 3603 -- Reps. Allison, Rice, Barrett, Seithel, Leach, Chellis, Simrill, Hinson, Spearman, Phillips, Bailey, Cato, McCraw, Sandifer, Walker, Limbaugh, Riser, Kinon, Young, R. Smith, Easterday, Rhoad, Mason, Gamble, Harvin, Bauer, Moody-Lawrence, Miller, Stuart, Limehouse, McMaster and Battle: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONDUCT TOWARD A CHILD BY PERSONS HAVING CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF THE CHILD, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE A PERSON RESIDING IN THE HOUSE OF A CHILD, OR HAVING RECURRING ACCESS TO A CHILD, OR WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR A CHILD IN PLACE OF A PERSON WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE AND SUPPORT OF A CHILD, AND TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON WHO HAS CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF A CHILD TO PLACE THE CHILD IN A SITUATION THAT WOULD LIKELY LEAD TO ABANDONMENT.
Very respectfully,
President

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Free Conference having been adopted by both Houses ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification:
H. 3603 -- Reps. Allison, Rice, Barrett, Seithel, Leach, Chellis, Simrill, Hinson, Spearman, Phillips, Bailey, Cato, McCraw, Sandifer, Walker, Limbaugh, Riser, Kinon, Young, R. Smith, Easterday, Rhoad, Mason, Gamble, Harvin, Bauer, Moody-Lawrence, Miller, Stuart, Limehouse, McMaster and Battle: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-7-50, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL CONDUCT TOWARD A CHILD BY PERSONS HAVING CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF THE CHILD, SO AS TO SUBSTITUTE A PERSON RESIDING IN THE HOUSE OF A CHILD, OR HAVING RECURRING ACCESS TO A CHILD, OR WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR A CHILD IN PLACE OF A PERSON WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE AND SUPPORT OF A CHILD, AND TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL FOR A PERSON WHO HAS CHARGE OR CUSTODY OF A CHILD TO PLACE THE CHILD IN A SITUATION THAT WOULD LIKELY LEAD TO ABANDONMENT.

The Senate has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that the Report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses ordered that the title be changed to that of an Act, and the Act enrolled for Ratification:
H. 3714 -- Reps. Wilkins and Knotts: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 20-3-180, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE NAME CHANGE OF A WOMAN UPON DIVORCE AND SECTION 20-7-420, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF FAMILY COURT, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE FAMILY COURT ALSO TO GRANT A NAME CHANGE UPON AN ORDER OF SEPARATE MAINTENANCE.

The Senate has ordered the Bill Enrolled for Ratification.

Very respectfully,
President

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

The following was received.
Columbia, S.C., June 16, 1998
Mr. Speaker and Members of the House:

The Senate respectfully informs your Honorable Body that it has adopted the report of the Committee of Conference on H. 4804:
H. 4804 -- Rep. Jennings: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-3-1040, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THREATENING THE LIFE, PERSON, OR FAMILY OF A PUBLIC OFFICIAL, TEACHER OR PRINCIPAL, SO AS TO MAKE IT UNLAWFUL TO THREATEN THE LIFE, PERSON, OR FAMILY OF ANY PUBLIC EMPLOYEE, AND REVISE THE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION.
Very respectfully,
President

H. 4804--ORDERED ENROLLED FOR RATIFICATION

The report of the Committee of Conference having been adopted by both Houses, and this Bill having been read three times in each House, it was ordered that the title thereof be changed to that of an Act, and that it be enrolled for ratification.

MOTION ADOPTED

Rep. HASKINS moved that upon the completion of receiving messages from the Senate today, the House stand adjourned to meet in Local Session tomorrow at 10:30 A.M. for the purpose of Ratifying Acts, which was agreed to.

MOTION ADOPTED

Rep. HASKINS moved that upon completion of ratification of Acts in Local Session tomorrow, that the House stand adjourned Sine Die, which was agreed to.

Rep. HASKINS moved that the House do now adjourn, which was adopted.

RETURNED WITH CONCURRENCE

The Senate returned to the House with concurrence the following:

H. 4398 -- Rep. Bowers: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME AND DESIGNATE THE OVERPASS AT U.S. HIGHWAY 301 AND INTERSTATE 95 IN ORANGEBURG COUNTY TO HONOR THE MEMORY OF FIRST SERGEANT FRANKIE LEE LINGARD OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY PATROL WHO WAS KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY ON DECEMBER 31, 1997.

H. 5231 -- Rep. McLeod: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO NAME THE PORTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 395 IN NEWBERRY COUNTY FROM THE KEMPSON FERRY BRIDGE TO THE BUSH RIVER BRIDGE AS JUDGE WALTER LAKE ROAD IN MEMORY OF THE LATE HONORABLE WALTER LAKE WHO SERVED THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND THE COUNTY OF NEWBERRY WITH DISTINCTION AS THE FIRST FAMILY COURT JUDGE FOR THE EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, AS A STATE REPRESENTATIVE IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, AND AS A COMMISSIONER ON THE SOUTH CAROLINA WORKERS' COMPENSATION COMMISSION.

H. 5243 -- Rep. Clyburn: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE GOOD BEGINNINGS AND OUTSTANDING FOUNDATION IN EDUCATION PROVIDED BY THE SECOND BAPTIST CHRISTIAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF AIKEN TO ITS YOUNG SCHOLARS AND EXTENDING THE FIVE-YEAR OLD KINDERGARTEN GRADUATING CLASS THE HEARTIEST CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES FOR THE FUTURE.

H. 5233 -- Rep. G. Brown: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING MR. PEARL FRYAR OF LEE COUNTY FOR HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO HIS COMMUNITY AND TO THE PALMETTO STATE, AND DESIGNATING JUNE 27, 1998, AS "PEARL FRYAR DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.

H. 5246 -- Reps. Scott, J. Brown, Cotty, Cromer, Harrison, Howard, McMaster, Neal, Quinn, J. Smith, Wilkins, Haskins, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, T. Brown, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harvin, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND THANKING THE HONORABLE ALMA W. BYRD OF RICHLAND COUNTY, OUR DEAR FRIEND AND DISTINGUISHED COLLEAGUE IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, FOR HER HIGHLY DEDICATED AND OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF SOUTH CAROLINA AS A LEGISLATOR, AND EXTENDING BEST WISHES TO HER FOR HAPPINESS AND SUCCESS IN ALL OF HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

H. 5249 -- Reps. Scott, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Byrd, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Cromer, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Howard, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, McMaster, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neal, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE LATE MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE OF MAYESVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THE OBSERVANCE OF HER ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-THIRD BIRTHDAY.

H. 5250 -- Rep. Scott: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE HONORABLE HARRIET GARDIN FIELDS FOR HER DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF RICHLAND COUNTY DURING HER TENURE ON THE RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL AND EXTENDING BEST WISHES TO HER IN ALL HER FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

H. 5254 -- Reps. Mack, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Byrd, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Cromer, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Howard, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, McMaster, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neal, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Scott, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS OF THE REV. DR. BENJAMIN J. WHIPPER, WHO DIED ON SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 1998.

H. 5252 -- Reps. Scott, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bauer, Baxley, Beck, Boan, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Byrd, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Cave, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Cromer, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Felder, Fleming, Gamble, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, A. Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Howard, Inabinett, Jennings, Jordan, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kinon, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Mack, Maddox, Martin, Mason, McAbee, McCraw, McGee, McKay, McLeod, McMahand, McMaster, Meacham, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, Mullen, Neal, Neilson, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Sandifer, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, D. Smith, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, Spearman, Stille, Stoddard, Stuart, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum, Young and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND THANKING GWENDOLYN DAVIS KENNEDY OF COLUMBIA FOR HER OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVICE AS A MEMBER OF RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL FROM 1993 TO 1997.

ADJOURNMENT

At 6:30 P.M. the House in accordance with the motion of Rep. BREELAND adjourned in memory of Rev. Benjamin J. Whipper, Sr. of Charleston, husband of former Representative Lucille Whipper and father of Representative SETH WHIPPER, to meet at 10:30 A.M. tomorrow in Local Session.

* * *

This web page was last updated on Monday, June 29, 2009 at 10:33 A.M.