South Carolina General Assembly
113th Session, 1999-2000
Journal of the Senate

Thursday, February 3, 2000

(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

A quorum being present, the proceedings were opened with a devotion by Senator J. VERNE SMITH as follows:

Let us pray.

Our kind and loving, Heavenly Father, we are grateful to You for the privilege of service.

We pray, God, we can submit our will to Your will so that You can use us. Help us to work out our differences in a manner that will be pleasing to Thee.

For Christ's sake,
Amen.

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

Doctor of the Day

Senator ALEXANDER introduced Dr. Boyce G. Tollison of Easley, S.C., Doctor of the Day.

CO-SPONSOR ADDED

S. 1069 (Word version) -- Senator Bauer: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-11-610 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS, 1976, RELATING TO ENTRY ON ANOTHER'S LANDS FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES WITHOUT PERMISSION, SO AS TO ALLOW REGISTERED LAND SURVEYORS, THEIR EMPLOYEES, AND AGENTS TO ENTER ONTO THE LANDS OF OTHERS FOR THE PURPOSE OF PERFORMING CUSTOMARY AND NECESSARY ACTS OF SURVEYING LAND.

On motion of Senator WILSON, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator WILSON was added as a co-sponsor of the Bill.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 1110 (Word version) -- Senator Saleeby: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-104-25 SO AS TO ESTABLISH CRITERIA FOR THE AWARDING OF PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDENTS WHO ATTEND "MAGNET SCHOOLS" OR SCHOOLS WITH "OPEN ENROLLMENT" AND TO PROVIDE FOR CERTAIN RETROACTIVE BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS CURRENTLY ENROLLED WHO WOULD HAVE BEEN ELIGIBLE FOR PALMETTO FELLOWS SCHOLARSHIPS UNDER THE ABOVE PROVISIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Education.

S. 1111 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler, Hayes, Martin, Bryan, Anderson, Land, Washington, Short, Reese, Patterson, Matthews, Glover, Courson, Mescher, O'Dell and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 59-1-420, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE LENGTH OF THE SCHOOL TERM, SO AS TO ADD THREE DAYS FOR THE NEXT TWO SCHOOL YEARS AND TWO MORE DAYS FOR ALL SCHOOL YEARS THEREAFTER AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THESE ADDITIONAL DAYS SHALL BE USED; TO ADD SECTION 59-5-75 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL REVIEW AND MAKE NECESSARY REVISIONS TO CRITERIA FOR REQUESTING OUT-OF-FIELD TEACHER PERMITS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE BOARD SHALL CONSIDER ESTABLISHING FOR PRINCIPALS A RECERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT THAT THEY COMPLETE TRAINING ON WAYS TO SUPPORT TEACHERS PROFESSIONALLY; TO ADD SECTION 59-5-85 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL REVIEW AND REFINE CERTAIN PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE DIMENSIONS IN THE STATE'S TEACHER EVALUATION PROGRAM, TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SHALL IMPLEMENT A PILOT PROGRAM TO DEVELOP PROCEDURES FOR INCLUDING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AS A COMPONENT OF THE TEACHER EVALUATION PROGRAM AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT SHALL DEVELOP GUIDELINES FOR THE TEACHER INDUCTION PROGRAM WHICH SHALL INCLUDE SUSTAINED LONG-TERM COACHING AND ASSISTANCE; TO ADD SECTION 59-5-95 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION SHALL APPOINT A PANEL TO REVIEW TEACHER EDUCATION ACCREDITATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMEND ANY ADDITIONAL TRAINING STANDARDS FOR MIDDLE GRADE TEACHER PREPARATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES; TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS IN REGARD TO MIDDLE SCHOOL GRADES INCLUDING ESTABLISHING REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION FOR TEACHING IN THE MIDDLE GRADES, GRANTING STATE CERTIFICATION TO OUT-OF-STATE TEACHERS POSSESSING MIDDLE GRADE CERTIFICATION, APPOINTING A PANEL TO RECOMMEND TRAINING STANDARDS FOR MIDDLE GRADES PREPARATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES FOR MIDDLE GRADE PRINCIPALS, REVISING THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE DEFINED PROGRAM FOR THE MIDDLE GRADES INCLUDING REDUCING PUPIL-TEACHER RATIOS AND GUIDANCE COUNSELOR RATIOS; TO ADD SECTION 59-5-105 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD SHALL TAKE ACTIONS ESTABLISHING COMPETITIVE GRANTS FOR DISTRICTS TO DEVELOP PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS BELOW GRADE LEVEL IN THE MIDDLE GRADES, AND ESTABLISHING CRITERIA FOR GRANTS FOR MIDDLE GRADE TEACHER NETWORKS TO ENABLE TEAMS OF INTERESTED TEACHERS TO INVESTIGATE AND IMPLEMENT EFFECTIVE TEACHING STRATEGIES; TO AMEND SECTION 59-5-135, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE GOVERNOR'S INSTITUTE OF READING UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PURPOSE OF THE INSTITUTE SHALL ALSO BE TO IMPROVE THE READING ABILITIES OF STUDENTS IN THE MIDDLE GRADES, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE AWARDING OF COMPETITIVE GRANTS TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS BY THE INSTITUTE DESIGNED TO IMPROVE READING IN THE MIDDLE GRADES; TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION IN DEVELOPING CRITERIA FOR THE NEW ACCREDITATION SYSTEM UNDER THE EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY ACT SHALL CONSIDER INCLUDING THE FUNCTIONING OF SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCILS AND THE PARTICIPATION OF OTHER SCHOOL GROUPS; TO ADD SECTION 59-25-45 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TEACHERS WORKING LESS THAN THIRTY HOURS A WEEK BUT MORE THAN FIFTEEN HOURS A WEEK SHALL QUALIFY FOR STATE HEALTH AND DENTAL INSURANCE, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH THE COST THEREOF SHALL BE PAID; TO AMEND SECTION 59-26-20, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION IN REGARD TO CERTAIN MATTERS INCLUDING THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE LOAN PROGRAM DESIGNED TO DEVELOP QUALIFIED TEACHERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT AREAS OF CRITICAL NEED SHALL ALSO INCLUDE CRITICAL GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS AND TO PROVIDE BEGINNING JULY 1, 2000, FOR THE MANNER IN WHICH LOANS MAY BE FORGIVEN FOR TEACHERS INCLUDING TEACHERS SERVING IN CRITICAL NEED AND GEOGRAPHICAL NEED AREAS; TO ADD SECTION 59-26-85 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT TEACHERS WHO ARE CERTIFIED BY THE NATIONAL BOARD FOR PROFESSIONAL TEACHING STANDARDS (NBPTS) SHALL BE EXEMPTED FROM CERTAIN STATE CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS, SHALL RECEIVE A SPECIFIED INCREASE IN PAY, AND MAY BE REIMBURSED ON A LOAN AND FORGIVENESS BASIS FOR THE COST OF SUCH CERTIFICATION; TO ADD SECTION 59-26-90 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN HONORARIUM OF NO LESS THAN TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR THE STATE TEACHER OF THE YEAR, AN HONORARIUM OF NO LESS THAN TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR THE FOUR HONOR ROLL TEACHERS OF THE YEAR, AND AN HONORARIUM OF NOT LESS THAN ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR EACH LOCAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR; TO ADD SECTION 59-26-100 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL ESTABLISH A PROGRAM WHEREBY SCHOOLS AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS MAY BE AWARDED FUNDS TO DEVELOP INCENTIVES FOR THOSE TEACHERS WHO ARE TRAINED TO AND SERVE AS MENTORS TO NEW TEACHERS; TO ADD SECTION 59-139-90 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT SCHOOL AND DISTRICT STRATEGIC PLANS MUST INCLUDE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT AND METHODS USED FOR DATA COLLECTION TO SUPPORT THE EVALUATION OF PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT EFFORTS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION SHALL STUDY THE TRAINING, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND FUNDING OF PARA-PROFESSIONALS TO BETTER ENABLE SCHOOLS AND DISTRICTS TO ORGANIZE TEACHER WORK DAYS TO REDUCE TEACHER NONINSTRUCTIONAL DUTIES.
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Senator SETZLER spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 1112 (Word version) -- Senators Alexander and Drummond: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 1278 OF 1970, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF PLANT IMPROVEMENT BONDS BY CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, SO AS TO MODIFY THE LIMITATION ON THE AMOUNT OF PLANT IMPROVEMENT BONDS WHICH MAY BE ISSUED.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 1113 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler, Land, Passailaigue, Rankin, Reese, Moore, Short, O'Dell, McGill, Saleeby, Peeler, Giese, Courson and Martin: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 9, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE VARIOUS STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS, BY ADDING CHAPTER 20 TO ENACT THE OPTIONAL RETIREMENT PROGRAM FOR TEACHERS AND SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS AND PROVIDE FOR ITS OPERATION.
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Senator SETZLER spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 1114 (Word version) -- Senator Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 1-11-770 SO AS TO REQUIRE PHARMACIES PARTICIPATING IN THE STATE HEALTH PLAN TO BILL THE PLAN FOR REIMBURSEMENT AFTER EMPLOYEES ELIGIBLE FOR REIMBURSEMENT HAVE MET THEIR DEDUCTIBLE AND TO REQUIRE EMPLOYEES TO PAY THEIR COPAYMENT AT THE TIME A PRESCRIPTION IS FILLED.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 1115 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms and Fair: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE XV OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO IMPEACHMENT OF CERTAIN EXECUTIVE AND JUDICIAL OFFICERS OF THIS STATE, BY ADDING SECTION 4 SO AS TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR RECALLING AND REMOVING FROM PUBLIC OFFICE PERSONS HOLDING PUBLIC OFFICES OF THE STATE OR ITS POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS IN THE EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE BRANCHES OF STATE OR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS; AND PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE XVII, BY ADDING SECTION 15 SO AS TO ESTABLISH A SPECIFIED PROCEDURE FOR THE ENACTMENT OR REPEAL OF LAWS AND CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS BY INITIATIVE PETITION AND REFERENDUM AND TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1116 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Hayes, Mescher, Ryberg, Giese, Branton and Fair: A JOINT RESOLUTION PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE XI OF THE CONSTITUTION OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1895, RELATING TO PUBLIC EDUCATION, BY ADDING SECTION 5 SO AS TO REQUIRE THAT THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF THIS STATE MUST BEGIN EACH SCHOOL DAY WITH A MOMENT OF SILENCE OF NOT LESS THAN ONE MINUTE NOR MORE THAN THREE MINUTES IN DURATION.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1117 (Word version) -- Senator Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 23-43-130, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ACCEPTANCE OF A MODULAR BUILDING UNIT AS BEING EQUIVALENT TO A SITE-BUILT UNIT MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF SAFETY TO LIFE, HEALTH, AND PROPERTY IMPOSED BY ORDINANCE OF A LOCAL GOVERNMENT, SO AS TO DELETE A PROVISION WHICH PROHIBITS A LOCAL GOVERNMENT FROM DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN A MODULAR BUILDING AND A BUILDING CONSTRUCTED ON SITE FOR PURPOSES OF CERTAIN LAND USE, ZONING, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1118 (Word version) -- Senator Ryberg: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO OFFER THE SINCERE APPRECIATION AND SPECIAL THANKS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO ONE OF THE PALMETTO STATE'S MOST OUTSTANDING AND DISTINGUISHED NUCLEAR CHEMISTS AND HUMANITARIANS, MR. J. MALVYN (MAL) MCKIBBEN OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 1119 (Word version) -- Senators Grooms, Ryberg, Richardson, Mescher, Giese, Branton and Fair: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO MEMORIALIZE CONGRESS TO ENACT AND SUBMIT TO THE STATES FOR RATIFICATION AN APPROPRIATE AMENDMENT TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION ALLOWING PRAYER IN SCHOOLS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 1120 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A JOINT RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO MAKE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS ALONG DENNIS RIDGE ROAD, BETHEL ROAD, POWERHOUSE ROAD, AND BUTTER ROAD IN BERKELEY COUNTY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 1121 (Word version) -- Senator Drummond: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 25-19-30, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE MEETINGS OF THE PRISONER OF WAR COMMISSION, SO AS TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF REQUIRED MEETINGS FROM THREE TO TWO YEARLY.
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Read the first time and on motion of Senator DRUMMOND, with unanimous consent, ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

S. 1122 (Word version) -- Senator Land: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AT THE DEATH OF MR. ROY TRENTON "R.T." BREWER OF MANNING AND EXTENDING SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

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

H. 3693 (Word version) -- Reps. J. Smith, Lourie and W. McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 16-17-445, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO REGULATION OF UNSOLICITED CONSUMER TELEPHONE CALLS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR ADDITIONAL DEFINITIONS, TO PROVIDE THAT A TELEPHONE SOLICITOR WHO MAKES AN UNSOLICITED CONSUMER TELEPHONE CALL MUST DISCLOSE PROMPTLY TO THE PERSON RECEIVING THE CALL THE IDENTITY OF THE SELLER, THAT THE PURPOSE OF THE CALL IS TO SELL GOODS OR SERVICES, THE NATURE OF THE GOODS OR SERVICES, THAT NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT IS NECESSARY TO WIN OR PARTICIPATE IN A PRIZE PROMOTION IF A PRIZE PROMOTION IS OFFERED, AND THAT, WHEN REQUESTED, THE TELEMARKETER MUST DISCLOSE THE NO PURCHASE/NO PAYMENT ENTRY METHOD FOR THE PRIZE PROMOTION, AND TO REVISE THE METHOD BY WHICH THE CALLED PARTY'S NAME MAY BE DELETED FROM THE SOLICITOR'S CALLING LIST.

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

H. 3770 (Word version) -- Reps. Cato, Wilkins, Tripp, Sandifer, Rice and Easterday: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 41-7-75 SO AS TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 41, CONCERNING "THE RIGHT TO WORK" AND TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN POWERS AND IMPART DUTIES TO CARRY THIS OUT; BY ADDING SECTION 41-7-100 SO AS TO ESTABLISH PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF CHAPTER 7, TITLE 41, AND TO REQUIRE THE DIRECTOR TO PROMULGATE REGULATIONS ESTABLISHING PROCEDURES FOR ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW OF PENALTIES ASSESSED; TO AMEND SECTION 41-7-30 RELATING TO PROHIBITING AN EMPLOYER FROM REQUIRING OR PROHIBITING MEMBERSHIP IN A LABOR ORGANIZATION AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT SO AS TO INCLUDE IN THE PROHIBITION AN AGREEMENT OR PRACTICE THAT HAS THE EFFECT OF REQUIRING SUCH MEMBERSHIP AND TO PROHIBIT A LABOR ORGANIZATION FROM INDUCING AN EMPLOYER TO VIOLATE THIS SECTION; TO AMEND SECTION 41-7-40 RELATING TO THE AUTHORITY TO DEDUCT LABOR ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP DUES FROM WAGES SO AS TO AUTHORIZE SUCH DEDUCTION IF AN EMPLOYEE ENTERS A WRITTEN AGREEMENT AUTHORIZING THE DEDUCTION; AND TO AMEND SECTION 41-7-90 RELATING TO REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF RIGHTS SO AS TO CREATE A PRIVATE CAUSE OF ACTION ON BEHALF OF AN EMPLOYEE AGGRIEVED BY VIOLATIONS OF THIS CHAPTER.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 4139 (Word version) -- Reps. Barrett and Townsend: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-2100, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO A COMMERCIAL DRIVER LICENSE, SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN "S" ENDORSEMENT WHICH AUTHORIZES A PERSON TO DRIVE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SCHOOL BUSES OR SCHOOL DISTRICT OWNED ACTIVITY BUSES.

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

H. 4340 (Word version) -- Reps. Breeland and Whipper: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-3-8000, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THESE LICENSE PLATES MAY ALSO BE ISSUED TO SOCIAL AND RECREATION CLUBS THAT HAVE OBTAINED CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 501(C)(7) OF THE FEDERAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.

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

H. 4392 (Word version) -- Rep. Wilkes: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 6 OF TITLE 40, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PRACTICE OF AUCTIONEERS, SO AS TO CONFORM THIS CHAPTER TO THE STATUTORY ORGANIZATIONAL FRAMEWORK OF TITLE 40, CHAPTER 1 FOR COMMISSIONS UNDER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION AND TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF AUCTIONEERS.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 4443 (Word version) -- Rep. Miller: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 592 OF 1994, RELATING TO THE GEORGETOWN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE OFFICE OF CHAIRMAN SHALL NO LONGER BE A SEPARATE AND DISTINCT OFFICE AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF THE TERM OF THE CURRENT CHAIRMAN, AND THAT THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD THEREAFTER SHALL BE ELECTED BY THE MEMBERS THEREOF.

Read the first time and referred to the Georgetown County Delegation.

H. 4487 (Word version) -- Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION, OFFICE OF ELEVATOR AND AMUSEMENT RIDE SAFETY, RELATING TO NEW AND EXISTING FACILITIES, PLATFORM AND STAIRWAY CHAIR LIFTS, SUMP PUMPS OR DRAINS IN ELEVATOR PITS,DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2464, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

H. 4496 (Word version) -- Rep. D. Smith: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 321 OF 1969, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE CREATION OF THE DRAYTON FIRE DISTRICT IN SPARTANBURG COUNTY, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT THE BOARD OF FIRE CONTROL MAY BORROW FROM FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND TO SEVEN HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS.

Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar without reference.

H. 4502 (Word version) -- Reps. R. Smith, Clyburn, Huggins, Perry and Sharpe: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT UP TO THREE SCHOOL DAYS MISSED IN JANUARY, 2000, BY THE STUDENTS AND TEACHERS OF ANY SCHOOL OF THE AIKEN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000 WHEN THE SCHOOLS WERE CLOSED DUE TO ICE, SNOW, AND RESULTING HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITIONS ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT OF THE DEFINED MINIMUM PLAN THAT FULL SCHOOL DAYS MISSED DUE TO EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES BE MADE UP.

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

H. 4510 (Word version) -- Reps. Wilkins and Harrison: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO INVITE THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SUPREME COURT, THE HONORABLE ERNEST A. FINNEY, JR., TO ADDRESS THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN JOINT SESSION ON THE STATE OF THE JUDICIARY AT 12:00 NOON ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2000.

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Invitations.

H. 4517 (Word version) -- Reps. Keegan, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Frye, Gamble, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Inabinett, Jennings, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Maddox, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McKay, M. McLeod, W. McLeod, McMahand, Meacham-Richardson, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J.H. Neal, J.M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scott, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, D. Smith, Stille, Stuart, Taylor, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REMEMBER THE SACRIFICES AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE BRAVE MEN WHO PERISHED ON THE S.S. LEOPOLDVILLE ON DECEMBER 24, 1944, DURING WORLD WAR II.

The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the General Committee.

H. 4523 (Word version) -- Reps. Stille, Townsend and Carnell: 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 32 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF AND A TWENTY-DOLLAR FEE FOR TEMPORARY LICENSE PLATES AND REGISTRATION CARDS TO MANUFACTURERS OF TRAILERS AND SEMI-TRAILERS WHO IN TURN MAY ISSUE THEM FOR TRAILERS AND SEMI-TRAILERS BEING MOVED FROM THE MANUFACTURER'S PLACE OF BUSINESS TO A DEALER OR PURCHASER'S PLACE OF BUSINESS, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION OF THIS ARTICLE.

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

H. 4527 (Word version) -- Reps. Stuart, Allen, Allison, Altman, Askins, Bailey, Bales, Barfield, Barrett, Battle, Bowers, Breeland, G. Brown, H. Brown, J. Brown, T. Brown, Campsen, Canty, Carnell, Cato, Chellis, Clyburn, Cobb-Hunter, Cooper, Cotty, Dantzler, Davenport, Delleney, Easterday, Edge, Emory, Fleming, Frye, Gamble, Gilham, Gourdine, Govan, Hamilton, Harrell, Harris, Harrison, Harvin, Haskins, Hawkins, Hayes, J. Hines, M. Hines, Hinson, Hosey, Howard, Huggins, Inabinett, Jennings, Keegan, Kelley, Kennedy, Kirsh, Klauber, Knotts, Koon, Lanford, Law, Leach, Lee, Limehouse, Littlejohn, Lloyd, Loftis, Lourie, Lucas, Mack, Maddox, Martin, McCraw, McGee, McKay, M. McLeod, W. McLeod, McMahand, Meacham-Richardson, Miller, Moody-Lawrence, J.H. Neal, J.M. Neal, Neilson, Ott, Parks, Perry, Phillips, Pinckney, Quinn, Rhoad, Rice, Riser, Robinson, Rodgers, Rutherford, Sandifer, Scott, Seithel, Sharpe, Sheheen, Simrill, F. Smith, J. Smith, R. Smith, D. Smith, Stille, Taylor, Townsend, Tripp, Trotter, Vaughn, Walker, Webb, Whatley, Whipper, Wilder, Wilkes, Wilkins, Witherspoon, Woodrum and Young-Brickell: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE HENHOUSE MINISTRY OF LEXINGTON COUNTY FOR ITS TWENTY-SIX-YEAR HISTORY OF CARE AND CONCERN FOR THE SWANSEA COMMUNITY, THE STATE, AND THE WORLD, AND HONORING THE "CHICKS" WHO MAKE IT POSSIBLE BY QUILTING, CANNING, AND CRAFTING FOR CHARITY.

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

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

Senator LAND from the Committee on Transportation submitted a favorable report on:

S. 131 (Word version) -- Senators Passailaigue, Russell, Hutto and Reese: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-3905 SO AS TO PROHIBIT PERSONS UNDER FIFTEEN YEARS OF AGE FROM STANDING OR SITTING IN THE OPEN BED OF A PICKUP TRUCK OR TRAILER UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LAND from the Committee on Transportation submitted a favorable report on:

S. 456 (Word version) -- Senator Land: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-3650, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CERTAIN EQUIPMENT THAT MUST BEMAINTAINED ON A MOTORCYCLE, SO AS TO DELETE THE PROVISION THAT REGULATES THE HEIGHT OF MOTORCYCLE HANDLEBARS.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

Senator LAND from the Committee on Transportation submitted a favorable report on:

H. 3455 (Word version) -- Reps. Lloyd, Clyburn, Parks, J. Hines, Scott, Bales, Taylor, Rutherford and M. Hines: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-3350, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS, SO AS TO REVISE THE AGE OF A PERSON WHO MAY APPLY FOR A SPECIAL IDENTIFICATION CARD.

Ordered for consideration tomorrow.

HOUSE CONCURRENCE

S. 1098 (Word version) -- Senator Peeler: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO THE FAMILY AND COUNTLESS FRIENDS OF ONE OF THIS STATE'S MOST PROMINENT AND RESPECTED VETERINARIANS, DR. JOHN MICHAEL BOLINGER OF GAFFNEY, SOUTH CAROLINA.

Returned with concurrence.

Received as information.

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

THIRD READING BILLS

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

S. 705 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Elliott: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 5-37-20, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS USED IN THE MUNICIPAL IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF 1999, SO AS TO INCLUDE WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF "IMPROVEMENTS" SERVICES OR FUNCTIONS WHICH A MUNICIPALITY IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW MAY BY LAW PROVIDE.

S. 1020 (Word version) -- Senators Passailaigue, Saleeby, Hayes, Matthews, Patterson, McConnell, Ford, Reese and Courtney: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-10, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS IN CONNECTION WITH BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONS, SO AS TO INCLUDE AS A FINANCIAL INSTITUTION A FEDERAL OR STATE AGENCY WHICH LENDS OR INVESTS FUNDS, TO DEFINE "LOAN CALL" AND "LOAN CALL AGREEMENT" AND REDEFINE "LOAN LIMITS", AND TO PROVIDE FOR A WRITTEN LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN A CORPORATION AND ITS MEMBERS RATHER THAN A STATUTORY LINE OF CREDIT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-70, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO TAXATION OF A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THE STATE TAX EXEMPTIONS ALSO FOR A SUBSIDIARY CORPORATION; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-250, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO POWERS OF A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MAY NOT MORTGAGE OR ASSIGN ITS ASSETS EXCEPT ON A PRO RATA BASIS TO ALL PARTIES PROVIDING CREDIT, OTHER THAN FOR SHORT-TERM LOANS AND PURCHASE MONEY LOANS FOR THE ACQUISITION OF CERTAIN INDUSTRIAL AND BUSINESS ASSETS, TO PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS OF A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION'S SUBSIDIARY, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-450, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO VOTING BY STOCKHOLDERS AND MEMBERS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR DETERMINATION OF THE NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL VOTES OF A MEMBER BY ITS LOAN LIMIT PURSUANT TO THE LOAN CALL AGREEMENT; TO AMEND SECTION 33-37-460, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO LOANS TO THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, SO AS TO DELETE STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS FOR LINES OF CREDIT AND PROVIDE FOR LINES OF CREDIT PURSUANT TO MUTUAL AGREEMENT, DECREASE FROM TWENTY TO TEN PERCENT THE TOTAL AMOUNT A MEMBER MAY HAVE OUTSTANDING AT ANY ONE TIME ON LOANS TO THE CORPORATION, TO PROVIDE FOR REVOLVING LINES OF CREDIT AND LEAD LENDERS, AND TO DELETE THE AUTOMATIC INCREASE IN LINES OF CREDIT OF MERGING ENTITIES; AND BY ADDING SECTION 33-37-465 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE MAKING AND SECURING OF SHORT-TERM LOANS TO THE CORPORATION BY A MEMBER.

AMENDMENT PROPOSED, CARRIED OVER

S. 613 (Word version) -- Senators Passailaigue, Drummond, Giese, Ravenel, Mescher, Ford, Grooms and Washington: A BILL TO MAKE FINDINGS OF LEGISLATIVE INTENT WITH RESPECT TO THE SPECIAL NEEDS OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AND CLINICS TO MAINTAIN MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY IN MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-123-60, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ORGANIZATION AND POWERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA SHALL CONSTITUTE THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AND CLINICS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE A HIGH LEVEL OF MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY TO THE AUTHORITY AND REMOVE THE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS FROM CENTRAL STATE PROGRAM REGULATION OF PROCUREMENT, REAL PROPERTY, AND HUMAN RESOURCES, TO SET FORTH THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY; TO AMEND SECTION 8-11-260, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM STATE PERSONNEL POLICIES AND REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXEMPT EMPLOYEES OF THE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS FROM BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-17-370, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES, SO AS TO EXEMPT MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AND CLINIC EMPLOYEES FROM THE STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE ACT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-710, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE STATE PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO ADD AN EXEMPTION TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE FOR THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AND CLINICS.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill. The question being the third reading of the Bill.

Senators DRUMMOND and PASSAILAIGUE proposed the following amendment (613R003.JWD):

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

/   SECTION   1.   Section 59-123-60 of the 1976 Code, as amended by Part II, Section 78 of Act 100 of 1999 and by Act 116 of 1999, is further amended to read:

"Section 59-123-60.   (A)   The board of trustees shall elect one of its number to be chairman and is authorized to elect a university president, one or more vice-presidents, and a secretary, prescribe their duties and terms of office, and fix their compensation. It shall elect teachers of professorial rank in the various colleges which make up The Medical University of South Carolina and other officers and employees as may be necessary for the proper conduct of the university and fix their compensation, the fees and charges of students, and the rules for the government of the university. The board of trustees also has the following powers:

(1)   to make bylaws and regulations considered expedient for the management of its affairs and its own operations not inconsistent with the Constitution and laws of this State or of the United States;

(2)   to confer the appropriate degrees in medicine, dental medicine, pharmacy, nursing, health-related professions, and graduate studies in related health fields upon students and other persons as in the opinion of the board of trustees may be qualified to receive them.; and

(3)   to make contracts and to have, to hold, to purchase, and to lease real estate and personal property for corporate purposes; and to sell and dispose of personal property and any buildings that are considered by it as surplus property or no longer needed and any buildings that it may need to do away with for the purpose of making room for other construction. These powers must be exercised in a manner consistent with the provisions of Chapter 35 of Title 11.

(B)   All revenues of the Medical University of South Carolina, the Medical University Hospital, and any funds transferred to the Medical University for from a practice plan for faculty established in the College of Medicine, and any for-profit corporation established by the practice plan are considered public funds and must therefore be expended for a public purpose as that purpose is defined in the applicable state law and regulations. For purposes of this subsection, and in addition to all other applicable laws and regulations, public purposes also do not include expenditures for purchasing gifts, making political or other contributions, and reimbursing officers' and employees' travel and subsistence expenses in excess of those authorized by law for state employees away from their job site on official business.

(C)   The provisions of the Freedom of Information Act apply to any practice plan entity established for the faculty whether or not for profit, the Medical University Hospital Authority, except that access is not allowed under this section to patient records or insurance information with respect to patients.

(D)   No member Members of the Medical University Board, officers in the administration of the university, including deans of the various colleges, or a current or former president of the Medical University may own any interest in businesses or property acquired by the Medical University or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries nor may the aforementioned officers have a financial interest in a business contracting or subcontracting with the Medical University or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates while serving as members of the Hospital Authority and the officers and employees of the Hospital Authority, shall be subject to applicable state ethics and accountability provisions of law.

(E)   As shall be provided in an implementing resolution by the Board of Trustees of the Medical University of South Carolina, the Board of Trustees of the Medical University of South Carolina is becomes the governing body of the Medical University Hospitals and Clinics hospitals, clinics, and other health care and related facilities as shall be determined from time to time by resolution of the board (hereinafter 'hospital'). Whenever the board functions in its capacity as the governing authority body of the hospital, the board of trustees is constituted and designated as the Medical University Hospital Authority, an agency of the State of South Carolina (hereinafter called authority). The board, as the governing body of the authority, has the powers granted the Board of Trustees of the Medical University of South Carolina under this chapter and the following powers:

(1)   make and amend bylaws for its governance consistent with the purposes of this chapter;

(2)   make bylaws for the management, regulation, and operation of the hospital;

(3)(a)   make contracts and have, hold, purchase, and lease real estate and personal property for corporate purposes; and sell and dispose of personal property and any buildings that are considered by it as surplus property or no longer needed and any buildings that it may need to do away with for the purpose of making room for other construction. These contracts are exempt from the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code and Regulations, but the authority must adopt a procurement policy requiring competitive bidding for construction contracts, which must be filed with and approved by the State Budget and Control Board;

(b)   sell, convey, mortgage, lease, exchange, and otherwise dispose of any real property subject to the authority and approval of the Budget and Control Board. These activities under this subitem are exempt from the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code and regulations and general laws governing disposal of surplus government property;

(c)   make contracts and guarantees, to incur liabilities, to issue its notes, bonds, and other obligations, and secure any of its obligations by mortgage or pledge of any of its property, or income in a manner to be in the best interest of the authority; any guarantee or indebtedness of the authority shall not create an obligation of the State, nor shall such guarantee or indebtedness be considered a debt against the general revenue of the State;

(d)   for the purpose of effectuating the provisions of subitem (c) above, utilize all provisions of the Hospital Revenue Bond Act. The issuance by the authority of any bonds, notes, or other obligations or indebtedness, except as provided in subitem (d), shall be subject to the approval thereof by resolution of the State Budget and Control Board. Except for such approving resolution, the requirements of Section 44-7-1590 of the Hospital Revenue Bond Act shall be applicable to obligations issued by the Authority; provided that none of the requirements of Section 44-7-1590 shall be applicable to obligations of the authority which:

(i)     have a maturity not exceeding six months from their date of issuance; and

(ii)   do not exceed, in the aggregate, ten percent of the net patient service revenue for the fiscal year of the authority preceding the fiscal year in which such obligations are issued;

(4)   receive contributions, donations, and payments and invest and disburse its funds; provided, however, that these funds are funds which must be used for public purposes, and further, that the authority may not use or authorize the use of funds, property, or time to influence the outcome of an election;

(5)   construct, operate, and maintain the hospital and related premises, buildings and facilities, and infrastructure;

(6)   appoint such officers, employees, personnel, and agents of the hospital authority and define such duties and fix their compensation in such manner as is necessary to carry out the hospital's authority's activities and affairs; the leave, holiday, and vacation policies of the authority's personnel and employees are exempt from Budget and Control Board personnel policies and applicable laws; as they specifically relate to those policies; all personnel employed at by the hospital authority are exempt from the provisions of Article 5, Chapter 17 of Title 8, the State Employee Grievance Procedure, but the board shall adopt a grievance procedure substantially similar to the provisions of that article to govern personnel and employees of the hospital authority, and this procedure must be filed with and approved by the State Budget and Control Board. All employees of the hospital authority must be furnished a copy of this grievance procedure; all personnel employed at by the hospital authority are employees-at-will and are state employees for purposes of eligibility for participation in the South Carolina Retirement System, the State Health Insurance Group plans, and pursuant to the South Carolina Tort Claims Act;

(7)   make pension payments to the South Carolina Retirement Systems on behalf of personnel or employees employed at by the hospital authority who qualify in the same manner as other state employees in the executive branch of government;

(8)   pay contributions to the Office of Insurance Services for health and dental plans on behalf of personnel employed at by the hospital authority who qualify in the same manner as other state employees in the executive branch of government;

(9)   receive, expend, and control under its own name and account any appropriated funds, federal funds, donations, and grants made available to the hospital authority; provided, however, that these funds are funds which must be used for a public purpose, and further that the authority may not use or authorize the use of funds, property, or time to influence the outcome of an election;

(10)   conduct an annual fiscal audit by certified public accountants selected by the authority who shall review the accounts of the hospital authority and report such findings of the audit to the Governor and the General Assembly in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards;

(11)   prepare and submit an annual budget to the General Assembly and the Budget and Control Board for review;

(12)   establish management controls and staffing of personnel as the authority deems most appropriate for the prudent conduct of the activities and affairs of the hospital; provided, that they establish an internal audit function that would report directly to the authority;

(13)   establish such not-for-profit corporations as the authority board considers necessary to assist the authority in carrying out its functions; provided, that any entity created pursuant to this subsection is considered to be an entity of the authority and subject to all laws and regulations applicable to the authority under this section. The formation of for-profit corporations by the authority is strictly prohibited;.

(14)   upon(F)   Upon review of the audit report required in Section 59-123-60(B)(E)(10), the legislature, by joint resolution, or the Governor, by Executive Order, may request audits to be completed by the State Auditors Office or the Legislative Audit Council. Based on the findings reported in the audit required in Section 59-123-60(B)(E)(10) by the State Auditors Office or by the Legislative Audit Council, the legislature, by joint resolution, may require intervention by the Budget and Control Board for the purposes of rectifying any material findings reflected in the audits;.

(15)(G)   a trustee serving on the Board of Trustees of the Medical University Hospitals and Clinics, a A member of the Medical University Board, an officer in the administration of the university, including deans of the various colleges, the President of the Medical University, or any other officer of the authority or any of its affiliates who have been found guilty of malfeasance, misfeasance, incompetence, absenteeism, conflict of interest, misconduct, persistent neglect of duty in office, or incapacity shall be subject to removal by the Governor upon any of the foregoing causes being made to appear to the satisfaction of the Governor. But before removing any such person, the Governor shall inform him in writing of the specific charges against him and give him an opportunity on reasonable notice to be heard. The Governor shall appoint a successor to fill the vacancy created by his removal. The successor appointed by the Governor is to serve in that position until a successor is elected and qualified in accordance with Section 59-123-50;.

(16)(H)   the Medical University Hospitals and Clinics The authority shall offer and provide to the Medical University of South Carolina the services necessary for the training and education of health professionals;

(17)(I)   Beginning in fiscal year 2000-2001 state appropriations to the Medical University of South Carolina for support of the Medical University hospitals and clinics shall be redirected to the Department of Health and Human Services. These funds shall be used as match funds for the Disproportionate Share for Hospitals federal program. Any excess funding may be used for hospital base rate increases. Beginning in fiscal year 2000-2001 and in subsequent years, the Department of Health and Human Services shall pay to the Medical University of South Carolina Hospital Authority an amount equal to the amount appropriated for its disproportionate share to the Department of Health and Human Services. This payment shall be in addition to any other funds that are available to the authority from the Medicaid program inclusive of the disproportionate share for the hospital's federal program. The Medical University Hospitals and Clinics authority shall continue to be operate the hospital as a health provider for the citizens of South Carolina and the clinical site for the education and training programs of the Medical University of South Carolina.

(J)   The board, as the governing body of the authority, shall adopt a written policy for the hospital for the expenditure of public funds. Public funds may be expended for events which recognize academic and research excellence and noteworthy accomplishments of members of the faculty and staff, students, and distinguished guests of the authority. Sources of the funds for these expenditures include only nonappropriated state funds. The expenditure of funds from these sources pursuant to the written policy of the board for the purpose stated in this section are considered to meet the public purpose test for expenditure of public funds.

(K)   The authority shall be exempt from the provisions of the South Carolina Procurement Code and Regulations, provided, however, the authority must adopt a procurement policy requiring competitive bidding for construction contracts, which policy must be filed with, and approved by, the State Budget and Control Board. Acquisition and construction by the authority of buildings, facilities, and infrastructure shall be exempt from the state permanent improvement plan regulations and procedures.

(L)   The authority and the Board of Trustees as the governing body of the authority shall succeed to all of the rights, duties, and obligations of the Medical University of South Carolina and the Board of Trustees, respectively, as owner and operator of the hospital. All property, real, personal, tangible, or intangible (including, without limitation, deposits, investments, and accounts receivable) of the Medical University relating to the hospital shall be and become the property of the authority. The Medical University and its officers are authorized to execute and deliver such instruments of conveyance or agreements as may be determined by the board to be necessary or useful to effect or evidence such transfer."

SECTION   2.   Section 8-11-260 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 452 of 1994, is further amended by adding a new item to be appropriately lettered to read:

"( )   Employees of the Medical University Hospital Authority."

SECTION   3.   Section 8-17-370 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 284 of 1996, is further amended by adding a new item to be appropriately numbered to read:

"( )   Employees of the Medical University Hospital Authority, provided the Medical University Hospital Authority has promulgated an employee grievance plan in accordance with its enabling provision."

SECTION   4.   Section 11-35-710 of the 1976 Code, as last amended by Act 153 of 1997, is further amended by adding a new item to be appropriately lettered to read:

"( )   Medical University Hospital Authority, provided the Medical University Hospital Authority has promulgated a procurement process in accordance with its enabling provision."

SECTION   5.   If any term or provision of a section of this act is found to be illegal, unconstitutional, or unenforceable, the remainder of this act is to remain in full force and effect and the illegal, unconstitutional, or unenforceable term or provision is deemed severable from the other provisions of this act.

SECTION   6.   This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to read:

/TO AMEND SECTION 59-123-60, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ORGANIZATION AND POWERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTING THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AND CLINICS, SO AS TO FURTHER PROVIDE FOR THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD ACTING AS THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY AND FOR OTHER MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND THE AUTHORITY INCLUDING FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROVISIONS AND THE EXPENDITURE, RECEIPT, AND TRANSFER OF CERTAIN FUNDS AND STATE APPROPRIATIONS; AND TO PROVIDE THAT THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY SHALL BE THE SUCCESSOR TO THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA HOSPITAL; TO AMEND SECTION 8-11-260, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM STATE PERSONNEL POLICIES AND REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO EXEMPT EMPLOYEES OF THE HOSPITALS AND CLINICS FROM BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION; TO AMEND SECTION 8-17-370, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES, SO AS TO EXEMPT MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY EMPLOYEES FROM THE STATE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE ACT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 11-35-710, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM THE STATE PROCUREMENT CODE, SO AS TO ADD AN EXEMPTION TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT CODE FOR THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY./

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator PASSAILAIGUE explained the amendment.

On motion of Senator PASSAILAIGUE, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

SECOND READING BILLS

The following Bills and Joint Resolutions, having been read the second time, were ordered placed on the third reading Calendar:

S. 1094 (Word version) -- Senators Drummond, Land and O'Dell: 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 32 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF AND A TWENTY-DOLLAR FEE FOR TEMPORARY LICENSE PLATES AND REGISTRATION CARDS TO MANUFACTURERS OF TRAILERS AND SEMI-TRAILERS WHO IN TURN MAY ISSUE THEM FOR TRAILERS AND SEMI-TRAILERS BEING MOVED FROM THE MANUFACTURER'S PLACE OF BUSINESS TO A DEALER OR PURCHASER'S PLACE OF BUSINESS, AND TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR A VIOLATION OF THIS ARTICLE.

Senator LAND explained the Bill.

S. 1094--Objection

Senator LAND asked unanimous consent to give S. 1094 a third reading on Friday.

Senator McCONNELL objected.

S. 936 (Word version) -- Senator Cork: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-110, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO VOTING PRECINCTS IN BEAUFORT COUNTY, SO AS TO ADD SUN CITY 2 AND SUN CITY 3 TO THESE PRECINCTS AND DESIGNATE A MAP NUMBER ON WHICH THE LINES OF THESE NEW PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED.

S. 1008 (Word version) -- Senators Holland and Hutto: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-1-460 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR DRIVING WHILE A LICENSE HAS BEEN CANCELLED, SUSPENDED, OR REVOKED, SO AS TO PROVIDE MAGISTRATE COURTS WITH EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION IN ALL CASES INVOLVING DRIVING UNDER SUSPENSION EXCEPT THOSE CASES WHERE THE SUSPENSION RESULTED FROM A CONVICTION FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS.

S. 1048 (Word version) -- Senator Moore: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, TITLE 53 OF THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 53-3-120, SO AS TO ESTABLISH THE THIRD SATURDAY IN FEBRUARY EACH YEAR AS PURPLE HEART DAY IN SOUTH CAROLINA, TO PAY TRIBUTE TO THE ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART FOR MILITARY MERIT AND THE EXCEPTIONAL MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE RECEIVED THIS DECORATION.

S. 1048--Ordered to a Third Reading

On motion of Senator SETZLER, with unanimous consent, S. 1048 was ordered to receive a third reading on Friday, February 4, 2000.

S. 1075 (Word version) -- Senators Setzler, Bryan, Leventis, Thomas, J. Verne Smith, Waldrep, Courtney, Giese, Moore, Elliott, Martin, Saleeby, Courson, Wilson, Grooms, Ravenel, Anderson, Hutto, McGill, Peeler, Hayes, Matthews, Ryberg, Rankin, Short and Holland: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-25-65 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT ALL CERTIFIED TEACHERS WHO ARE EMPLOYED BY A SCHOOL DISTRICT TO TEACH IN THE CLASSROOM SHALL RECEIVE ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS EACH SCHOOL YEAR TO OFFSET EXPENSES INCURRED BY THEM FOR TEACHING SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE EDUCATION OF THE STUDENTS.

S. 1075--Ordered to a Third Reading

On motion of Senator SETZLER, with unanimous consent, S. 1075 was ordered to receive a third reading on Friday, February 4, 2000.

Co-Sponsor Added

On motion of Senator BRANTON, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator BRANTON was added as a co-sponsor of S. 1075.

S. 1108 (Word version) -- Judiciary Committee: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REGULATIONS OF THE WORKERS' COMPENSATION COMMISSION, RELATING TO SETTLEMENT BY AGREEMENT AND FINAL RELEASE AND RELATING TO REPORTING ATTORNEY'S FEES FOR APPROVAL, DESIGNATED AS REGULATION DOCUMENT NUMBER 2470, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 23, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE.

Senator COURTNEY explained the Joint Resolution.

S. 929 (Word version) -- Senators Courson, Wilson, Passailaigue, Setzler, Reese, Grooms, Hayes, Branton and Rankin: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 8-11-675 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT STATE AGENCIES OR DEPARTMENTS HAVING EMPLOYEES LOCATED WITHIN THOSE COUNTIES WHOSE PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT IS CLOSED BY THE GOVERNOR BECAUSE OF EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER EMERGENCY CONDITIONS MAY NOT REQUIRE THOSE EMPLOYEES TO MAKE UP TIME LOST FROM WORK, TO PROVIDE THAT EMPLOYEES OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA LOCATED WITHIN THOSE COUNTIES WHOSE PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT IS CLOSED BY THE GOVERNOR AS A RESULT OF EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER EMERGENCY CONDITIONS ARE NOT REQUIRED UNDER THE HAZARDOUS WEATHER POLICY TO MAKE UP TIME LOST FROM WORK, AND TO PROVIDE FOR COMPENSATORY TIME FOR CERTAIN EMPLOYEES.

Senator COURSON explained the Bill.

Co-Sponsor Added

On motion of Senator GIESE, with unanimous consent, the name of Senator GIESE was added as a co-sponsor of S. 929.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENT ADOPTED
READ THE SECOND TIME WITH NOTICE OF GENERAL AMENDMENTS

S. 354 (Word version) -- Senator Gregory: A BILL TO AMEND TITLE 15, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO CIVIL REMEDIES AND PROCEDURES, BY ADDING CHAPTER 42 SO AS TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA BUSINESS DEBT RECOVERY ACT OF 1999", WHICH PROVIDES PROCEDURES THAT GRANT TO PERSONS WHO HAVE RECOVERED JUDGMENTS AGAINST ANOTHER PERSON FOR A COMMERCIAL DEBT A RIGHT TO A WRIT OF GARNISHMENT, SUBJECTING TO GARNISHMENT UP TO SPECIFIED LIMITATIONS INCOME, WAGES, INTEREST, RENTS, DIVIDENDS, CAPITAL GAINS, BONUSES, AND COMMISSIONS OF THE DEBTOR; AND TO AMEND SECTION 37-5-104, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION AGAINST GARNISHMENT FOR CERTAIN CONSUMER DEBTS, SO AS TO PERMIT GARNISHMENT FOR COMMERCIAL DEBTS AS DEFINED IN CHAPTER 42 OF TITLE 15 ABOVE.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill. The question being the adoption of the amendment proposed by the Committee on Judiciary.

The Committee on Judiciary proposed the following amendment (JUD0354.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 1, line 39, in Section 15-42-10, as contained in SECTION 1, by striking /1999/ and inserting /     2000   /.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 2, line 24, in Section 15-42-20(D), as contained in SECTION 1, by striking line 24 in its entirety and inserting therein the following:

/   (D)   A writ of garnishment must not be issued subject to an   /.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 2, beginning on line 28, in Section 15-42-20(E), as contained in SECTION 1, by striking lines 28 through 29 in their entirety and inserting therein the following:

/     subject to other provisions of this chapter, the debtor and the creditor before entering into the transaction must first voluntarily and knowingly agree in writing that     /.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 4, line 41, in Section 15-42-50(C), as contained in SECTION 1, by striking line 41 in its entirety and inserting therein the following:

/     number of writs. Valid prior recorded writs of garnishment shall have priority over valid writs of garnishment subsequently recorded.     /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by adding on page 5, line 4, as contained in SECTION 1, the following:

/   Section 15-42-55.   Within twenty days of full payment of the amount owed, the judgment creditor shall file a satisfaction of judgment with the clerk of court in each county where the judgment was filed. A judgment creditor who fails to file a satisfaction of judgment pursuant to this section is subject to a penalty of fifty dollars payable to the clerk of court. /

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, by adding an appropriately numbered SECTION to read:

/   SECTION   ___.   Chapter 39, Title 15 of the 1976 Code is amended to read:

"Section 15-39-410.   The judge may order any property of the judgment debtor, not exempt from execution, in the hands either of himself or any other person or due to the judgment debtor, to be applied toward the satisfaction of the judgment, except that the earnings of the debtor for his personal services cannot be so applied." /

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator COURTNEY explained the committee amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time, passed and ordered to a third reading with notice of general amendments.

AMENDED, READ THE SECOND TIME

H. 4478 (Word version) -- Rep. Fleming: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-7-510, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DESIGNATION OF VOTING PRECINCTS AND POLLING PLACES IN UNION COUNTY, SO AS TO DELETE THE LOCATIONS OF THE POLLING PLACES AND PROVIDE THAT POLLING PLACES FOR THESE PRECINCTS MUST BE DETERMINED BY THE BOARD OF ELECTION AND REGISTRATION OF UNION COUNTY WITH THE APPROVAL OF A MAJORITY OF THE UNION COUNTY LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION, AND DESIGNATE A MAP NUMBERED ON WHICH LINES OF THE PRECINCTS ARE DELINEATED AND MAINTAINED BY THE DIVISION OF RESEARCH AND STATISTICAL SERVICES OF THE STATE BUDGET AND CONTROL BOARD.

The Senate proceeded to a consideration of the Bill. The question being the second reading of the Bill.

Senator PEELER proposed the following amendment (JUD4478.001), which was adopted:

Amend the bill, as and if amended, page 3, line 8, in Section 7-7-510, as contained in SECTION 1, by striking line 8 in its entirety and inserting therein the following: / Buffalo, Box 1 /.

Amend the bill further, as and if amended, page 3, line 18, in Section 7-7-510, as contained in SECTION 1, by striking line 18 in its entirety and inserting therein the following: / Meadows /.

Renumber sections to conform.

Amend title to conform.

Senator PEELER explained the amendment.

The amendment was adopted.

There being no further amendments, the Bill was read the second time and ordered placed on the third reading Calendar.

H. 4478--Ordered to a Third Reading

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, H. 4478 was ordered to receive a third reading on Friday, February 4, 2000.

CARRIED OVER

S. 1109 (Word version) -- Senators Moore, Short, Reese, Leatherman, Wilson, Courtney, Waldrep, Drummond, Land, O'Dell, McConnell, Peeler, Thomas, Mescher, Bryan, Holland, McGill, Elliott, Giese, Courson, Passailaigue, Branton, Fair, Anderson, Hayes, Washington, Ravenel, Richardson, Bauer, Grooms, Saleeby and Rankin: A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT AT THE DISCRETION OF THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD, UP TO FIVE SCHOOL DAYS MISSED BY THE STUDENTS AND TEACHERS OF ANY SCHOOL OF ANY DISTRICT OF THIS STATE DURING SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000, WHEN THE SCHOOL WAS CLOSED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER, ARE EXEMPTED FROM THE MAKE-UP REQUIREMENT OF THE DEFINED MINIMUM PLAN THAT FULL SCHOOL DAYS MISSED DUE TO EXTREME WEATHER OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES BE MADE UP.

On motion of Senator RYBERG, with unanimous consent, the Bill was carried over.

THE CALL OF THE UNCONTESTED CALENDAR HAVING BEEN COMPLETED, THE SENATE PROCEEDED TO THE MOTION PERIOD.

MADE SPECIAL ORDER

S. 544 (Word version) -- Senators Hayes, J. Verne Smith, Alexander, Moore, Drummond, Ravenel, Setzler, Branton, Courson, Fair, Giese, Gregory, Grooms, Jackson, Thomas, Martin, McGill, Mescher, O'Dell, Peeler, Russell, Ryberg, Waldrep, Wilson and Leatherman: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-2930, AS AMENDED, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION AGAINST OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR ANOTHER SUBSTANCE, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO OPERATE A MOTOR VEHICLE WITH AN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION OF TEN ONE-HUNDREDTHS OF ONE PERCENT OR MORE, AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-2950, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO A DRIVER'S IMPLIED CONSENT TO BE TESTED FOR ALCOHOL OR DRUGS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A PERSON WHO HAS AN ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION OF TEN ONE-HUNDREDTHS OF ONE PERCENT OR MORE IS CONCLUSIVELY PRESUMED TO HAVE AN ILLEGAL ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION.

Senator HAYES moved that the Bill be made a Special Order.

Senator RYBERG requested a roll call vote on the motion setting S.544 as a Special Order.

Senator HUTTO asked unanimous consent to make a motion to apply the roll of the Senate to the motion for Special Order.

There was no objection.

The "ayes" and "nays" were demanded and taken, resulting as follows:

Ayes 46; Nays 0

AYES

Alexander                 Anderson                  Bauer
Branton                   Bryan                     Courson
Courtney                  Drummond                  Elliott
Fair                      Ford                      Giese
Glover                    Gregory                   Grooms
Hayes                     Holland                   Hutto
Jackson                   Land                      Leatherman
Leventis                  Martin                    Matthews
McConnell                 McGill                    Mescher
Moore                     O'Dell                    Passailaigue
Patterson                 Peeler                    Rankin
Ravenel                   Reese                     Richardson
Russell                   Ryberg                    Saleeby
Setzler                   Short                     Smith, J. Verne
Thomas                    Waldrep                   Washington
Wilson

Total--46

NAYS

Total--0

The Bill was made a Special Order.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator JACKSON rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator FORD rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

Expression of Personal Interest

Senator DRUMMOND rose for an Expression of Personal Interest.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senators COURTNEY and WILSON, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mrs. Ray Wynn of Spartanburg, S.C.

Time Fixed

Senator DRUMMOND moved that, when the Senate adjourns on Friday, February 4, 2000, it stand adjourned to meet next Tuesday, February 8, 2000, at 12:00 Noon, which motion was adopted.

ADJOURNMENT

At 12:05 P.M., on motion of Senator DRUMMOND, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:00 A.M. under the provisions of Rule 1 for the purpose of taking up local matters and uncontested matters which have previously received unanimous consent to be taken up.

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