South Carolina General Assembly
124th Session, 2021-2022
Journal of the Senate

                                                    NO. 78

JOURNAL

OF THE

SENATE

OF THE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

REGULAR SESSION BEGINNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2021

_________

MONDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2021

Monday, December 6, 2021
(Statewide Session)

Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter

The Senate assembled at 1:00 P.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned, and was called to order by the PRESIDENT.

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

Exodus 3:11

Upon being commanded by the Lord to bring his people out of Egypt, God's servant Moses replied: " 'Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?' "

Good friends, let us bow in prayer: Truly, Holy Lord, it seems that the tasks which come before this Senate often have to appear as impossible to carry out as did the challenge given to Moses ages ago. And it would surely be understandable if these leaders in this Chamber, again like Moses, also questioned the role thrust upon them. Yet, O God, duly chosen and elected as these capable women and men are, each -- like Moses -- is equally determined to labor for the well-being of every citizen in this State. Thus do we ask You this afternoon, Lord, to guide this Body as You alone are able, so that its members seek what is the wisest and best course for all in South Carolina during these challenging times. Indeed, may each Senator and every staff person prayerfully seek Your guidance, following the example of the leader whom we knew lovingly as the Chairman, the late Senator Hugh K. Leatherman, Sr., who served our State and her people faithfully over so many productive decades. May each one of us always remember Senator Leatherman's many, many gifts and his love for our State. All this we pray in Your holy and blessed name, dear Lord. Amen.

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

In Memory of
Senator HUGH KENNETH LEATHERMAN, Sr.
April 14, 1931 - November 12, 2021

Remembrances

Senator SETZLER rose for a reflection on the life of Senator LEATHERMAN.

Senator ALEXANDER rose for a reflection on the life of Senator LEATHERMAN.

Senator PEELER rose for a reflection on the life of Senator LEATHERMAN.

Remarks by Senator SETZLER

Mr. PRESIDENT, ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, guests -- today is a different day in the South Carolina Senate. It does not matter how many times we gather after the passing of a colleague, it is always sobering. It always impacts you.

State Senator HUGH LEATHERMAN, Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, was not only the Senator for Florence County, but he embodied the role of a State Senator as well as anybody I have known. Yes, Senator LEATHERMAN delivered and took community improvement projects to his district, but he was a State Senator. He understood that. Let us take that lesson from him.

We all have memories of our interactions with Senator LEATHERMAN. I do not think it is any secret that Senator LEATHERMAN and I were not only colleagues, but we grew to be personal friends and I treasure that friendship. He commonly referred to me as Senator NIKKI, and his staff jokingly referred to us as Thelma and Louise.

As we remember and celebrate the life of HUGH LEATHERMAN, his service in the Senate, and his service to this State, he would not want us to be somber. If you heard the eulogy at his funeral given by Dr. Fred Carter, it was evident how close they were and what Senator LEATHERMAN's wishes were upon his passing.

I was 35 years old, and a member of the Senate when Senator LEATHERMAN and our current PRESIDENT were elected in 1980. I had just finished my first term in the South Carolina Senate. I went to Senator LEATHERMAN's Office in the Gressette building to meet him as he sat there with his wife Jean and two daughters who were small children. I proceeded to put my foot in my mouth the first time I ever met him. After introductions, I welcomed him to the Senate, and told him I was looking forward to serving with him. I then proceeded to ask, "Are those your grandchildren on the floor?" Needless to say, I had a lot of making up to do with Senator LEATHERMAN. He forgave me, and we became great friends.

Senator LEATHERMAN was close to many of us in this Chamber, and he dealt with each of us in an individual way.   There are memories that stay with you, and while I have many, there are a couple that are dear in my mind. Senator ALEXANDER and Senator LEATHERMAN ate dinner many nights while in session. Over the last two years, he asked me and others to occasionally join them for dinner. It was always good dinner and great conversation, and on one night while we were at the Palmetto Club, I told Senator ALEXANDER about pizza and Pinot Noir at Terra's in West Columbia. The three of us planned a night at Terra's, and even though Senator ALEXANDER was not able to join us, Senator LEATHERMAN and I spent about two hours eating Pizza and drinking Pinot. I cherish that evening and also remember fondly the last time he was here for the Joint Bond Review Subcommittee. He asked Senator ALEXANDER and I to stay and have lunch in 105 Gressette. The conversation we had will forever go to the grave with the three of us. I did not realize at the time that our time with him was short.

I treasure the day that I visited with him in Florence. I was honored that his family allowed me to have this time with him, and I spent about an hour with him. We talked, he was in good spirits, and when I got ready to leave, I prayed with him. I knew when I walked out that would be the last time I would ever see him alive. Senator LEATHERMAN, even in the darkest days, was the eternal optimist. I ask that you remember and grow from that.

Senator LEATHERMAN was a visionary, and he had thoughts about where South Carolina should be five years from now -- ten years from now. He was always a year, two years, or five years ahead of anybody else -- which was an incredible trait of his. He understood bipartisanship and handled the Senate and the Senate Finance Committee on a bipartisan basis. He believed everybody should be considered, and we all needed to work together. He respected this institution, and that is incredibly important that each one of us remember and carry forward. He understood the history, the reverence, the mannerisms, and the way you conduct yourself when we have a debate. Yes, it is acceptable to disagree but not to be disagreeable. We are to treat each other with the utmost respect.

Senator LEATHERMAN trusted others in their abilities. When he appointed them to leadership roles, he put great thought into it, and he let them do their job. I worked hand-in-hand with him since 2000, when he became Chairman of Senate Finance Committee. He appointed me to serve on many difficult issues, and not once did he call me in to tell me I had gone too far. When he gave you something to do he stayed involved, but he trusted you to be responsible for details and the difficult work. It was an incredible trait to give people responsibility, trust them, and stand behind them.

Senator LEATHERMAN possessed another trait unique to many. He did not get mad if you disagreed with him, and he did not hold a grudge. There were numerous matters including the reorganization and reauthorization of the Research Authority and the initial South Carolina Ports Authority Bond Bill that was introduced that I did not agree with as it gave the Secretary of Commerce too much bonding authority. He was always open to dialogue.

Senator LEATHERMAN knew how to build a coalition. He knew how to count votes. He also knew how to take renegades under his wing to nurture them into becoming a part of his team in the Senate. He had a way of understanding each personality in this Chamber, and he had the patience of Job. He never got in a hurry when he did not have votes. He did, however, have a way of making you aware of his presence. If he ever walked to your desk and put his hand on your shoulder, you knew it was time to yield.

Senator LEATHERMAN will be remembered for many things. He cared about people and their needs. He cared about South Carolina, and his work in economic development was unparalleled. His work on Boeing, South Carolina Ports Authority, the inland ports, road infrastructure and broadband are a few. All of those are great things, but I believe one of the greatest things he did was address the VC Summer/Santee Cooper/SCANA matter in 2017. The Majority Leader and I contacted Senator LEATHERMAN with concerns about this matter and how it affected this State. He took action, and appointed a special committee co-chaired by Senator MASSEY and I to address the matter. He had the foresight, the will, the power and the fortitude to do what was right. He never fled from the Santee Cooper/SCANA fiasco, and he vowed to never let the taxpayers of South Carolina suffer. I think that was one of his greatest accomplishments.

Again, he cared about people. His impact on South Carolina will be felt for many years. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to serve with him and to call him a friend. We all are blessed that our paths crossed with a gentleman who did so much to try to help move forward this State. He will be forever missed, thank you.

Remarks by Senator Alexander

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT, and members of this Senate. Senator SETZLER said it so well. I did want to get up and pay tribute to our colleague, to a leader of this Senate and leader of this State. More importantly to me, a close friend and a mentor. You know, he was an engineer by training -- a builder, he loved building things. He loved building not only buildings and different things, but building relationships, building projects and making South Carolina so much better. I had the privilege, which was mentioned earlier, of having dinner with him a lot. He was always talking about his family and his love for his family, his grandchildren, and great grandchildren as well. He loved his district but, as you have said, he loved the State of South Carolina. I really don't think you have to go much further. I remember when we did the dedication of his portrait in this Chamber. I think as you look at him in that portrait it exemplifies three things that he held near and dear. One is this institution, the traditions of this institution, and his care of this institution. Boeing was mentioned earlier -- he had the opportunity of working that deal, to make it happen for a better South Carolina that has reached all over the State. Then the port -- from that standpoint, as you look at those plans in his right hand, they are the plans for the port, but I would suggest to you that being a builder and engineer, I think they symbolize a lot of other plans that he had and that he made a difference in lives of the people of South Carolina. I just cherish the times I spent with him. I will never forget one of the issues that was brought up a while ago which was about broadband. He called me in for a visit one day. He was talking and talking about broadband and deployment in rural South Carolina. This was before COVID-19. He understood that broadband was going to be a critical part of the infrastructure to help our citizens. He very much related to that -- to the rural electrification that occurred in his childhood when he lived in rural Lincoln County, North Carolina. He saw this as that next generation of that. He poured everything in from his heart from that standpoint. There is a lot I can say. We saw him work on a lot of things that meant so much. The difference though, I think, is that he wanted to also do things that helped folks help themselves. Whether that was through education or workforce development -- making sure that individuals could help themselves, prepare themselves, prepare their families for them to be successful. To me, that is a legacy that will serve us and future generations for decades to come. There is a poem -- I'm not going recite it -- called the Bridge Builder. It talks about a man building a bridge, and building that bridge in his twilight years, and after he had gone over the river to the other side, he was building that bridge. They asked, "Why are you building this bridge? You are already on the other side. Why are you building this bridge?" He said, "There will be youth that will come after me that will need this bridge. It is for their steps and their future that I'm building this bridge." That sums up our chairman, Senator HUGH K. LEATHERMAN. Always building for future generations. I will leave you with one of my favorite quotes, a native American proverb. It says, "When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. May you live your life in such a manner that when you die the world cries and you rejoice." The chairman, and Senator SETZLER said a while ago, any time you saw him and asked how he was doing, he would say, "I'm doing great." Today our chairman, Senator HUGH K. LEATHERMAN is truly doing great, spending eternity with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT.

Remarks by Senator PEELER

The Lord blesses me every day, but a couple of weeks before Senator LEATHERMAN passed away, we had a chance to visit. It was his last time to tell me the story just as he always did -- when we entered the Senate, he acted as if he liked to listen to my jokes. We sat on the back row, back there where Senator ADAMS and Senator CASH sit. Senator DENNIS was at the podium, I snuck a little joke in to Senator LEATHERMAN and he laughed aloud. Senator DENNIS left the podium, walked back to the back and he said to him, "Well Senator, I guess you would rather listen to Senator PEELER's jokes better than serving on Joint Bond Review Committee?" and he stripped him from the committee standing right there. I was going to answer it was sure more important to listen to my jokes than serve on that committee. He loved to tell that story and I love to tell this story. Late one night during a conference committee with the House and Senate, it was obvious Senator SETZLER and the House conferees were jerking him around. It was late in the night and they were having their way with him. He got up and he went back into his office, but with my patience, as you say, I went running to his office, I opened the door, slammed the door and I said, "Hugh, dang it, I want to see you get mad just one time." He replied, "No you don't." I thought about that a lot. I think he was right again. Senator LEATHERMAN and I had a special relationship for 41 years. I can tell you this, many, many people in this State will miss HUGH LEATHERMAN, but few people will miss him more than I will.

On motion of Senator GROOMS, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senators SETZLER, ALEXANDER and PEELER were ordered printed in the Journal.

COMMUNICATION

December 6, 2021

Mr. Jeffrey S. Gossett
Clerk of the Senate
South Carolina Senate
Post Office 142
Columbia, South Carolina 29202

Re: Resignation as Senate President

Dear Mr. Clerk,

As a senior member of the majority party of the Senate Finance Committee, it is my right and obligation to fill the current vacancy in the chairmanship. However, Senate Rule 19 (E) prevents the PRESIDENT from chairing a standing committee of the Senate.

Therefore, please accept this letter to serve as an official notice of my resignation from the office of Senate PRESIDENT. This resignation is effective immediately.

I look forward to serving as the Chairman of the Finance Committee and continuing to represent the great people of District 14 and the entire State of South Carolina.

Sincerely,
Harvey S. Peeler, Jr.

Senator PEELER rose for brief remarks

Remarks by Senator PEELER

Members of the Senate, thank you for the responsibility of the purple robe. I wore this purple robe like a suit of armor. You might ask me, "If you like wearing the purple robe so much, why do you want to take it off?" It is my sincerest belief that I can best serve my constituents of Senate District 14 and the people of South Carolina as Chairman of the Finance Committee as opposed to the PRESIDENT of the Senate.

While serving as the first elected PRESIDENT of the Body, is and always will be one of the great honors of my life, my work on the Finance Committee will allow me to focus on the issues most important to our State. This includes, but is not limited to, a focus on fiscal conservatism and building and maintaining a taxpayer-friendly financial system where families and businesses can locate, grow and thrive. Brothers and sisters of the Senate, we have work to do. I will see you on the floor.

On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator PEELER were ordered printed in the Journal.

ACTING PRESIDENT PRESIDES

Senator SETZLER assumed the Chair.

Election of the PRESIDENT of the Senate

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate proceeded to an election of the PRESIDENT.

That ACTING PRESIDENT announced that nominations were in order for PRESIDENT of the Senate.

Senator PEELER nominated Senator ALEXANDER as PRESIDENT.

Senator MALLOY seconded the nomination.

Senator MARTIN seconded the nomination.

Senator MASSEY seconded the nomination.

Senator HUTTO seconded the nomination.

Senator SHEALY moved that the nominations be closed and that Senator ALEXANDER be elected PRESIDENT of the Senate by acclamation.

Senator SETZLER announced that Senator ALEXANDER had been elected PRESIDENT of the Senate.

Remarks by Senator PEELER

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. I wish to place in nomination Senator THOMAS CLEVELAND ALEXANDER as the second Senator to serve as PRESIDENT of the South Carolina Senate.

THOMAS ALEXANDER was first elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1987. Barely 31 years old with a mustache and a head full of hair when he first entered this sacred building. While in the House, Senator ALEXANDER served as Chairman of the Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee.

Seven years later, when a vacancy occurred in Senate District 1, THOMAS ALEXANDER was elected to the South Carolina Senate -- October 11, 1994 -- 27 years ago. Today, he serves as Chairman of the Senate Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee. His economics degree from Clemson has served him well in those two committee chairmanships.

Many of you know Senator ALEXANDER worked side-by-side with the late Senator Verne Smith on healthcare issues in our State. Senator ALEXANDER later went on to chair the Health subcommittee on Finance. He has shown his ability to lead by working with both sides of the aisle in order to do what is best for the State of South Carolina.

What you may not know about Senator THOMAS ALEXANDER is his fierce loyalty to the people of Oconee and Pickens counties. He has lived all of his 65 years in the same town -- and most of those years in the same house. His business is on Main Street in Walhalla -- and if you ever stop by, you will find him working alongside his wife Lynda.

His town, his church and his family have collectively formed the person we all know as Senator ALEXANDER. You will see these values in the way he will lead this Senate -- with dedication, with faith and with love for the State of South Carolina. Senator ALEXANDER -- you are up to the task.

We couldn't quite script this day like the day I was first elected. On that day, the Clemson flag was flying atop our State House. I don't believe our Clemson Tigers will win this year's national championship. But Senator, the tigers did win the State Championship!

Mr. PRESIDENT, it is my honor to nominate Senator THOMAS CLEVELAND ALEXANDER, to serve as PRESIDENT of the South Carolina Senate.

Remarks by Senator MALLOY

Thank you, Mr. PRESIDENT. Ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, I'm honored to rise and second the nomination of Senator THOMAS ALEXANDER, as PRESIDENT of the South Carolina Senate.

I spoke to Senator ALEXANDER's wife, Lynda, before I got up here, I said, "Thank you for allowing Senator ALEXANDER to serve with us." She replied, "It makes him happy to be here in the Senate."

I have no hesitation in seconding the nomination because I know Senator ALEXANDER will be an outstanding PRESIDENT of the Senate. I know this because, as Shakespeare wrote, "What is past is prologue."

We need to only look at the Senator's distinguished service in the Senate to know that he will serve with distinction as our PRESIDENT. Since beginning his service in the Senate in 1994 along with his previous service in the House, Senator ALEXANDER has served honorably and capably. He has been a well respected and effective committee chair, an indispensable member of the Public Utilities Committee, the Bond Review Committee, and a major force on numerous budgets -- including as the expert on the delivery of health care services to our citizens.

I talked to former Senator Glen McConnell for about 45 minutes yesterday, and he was talking about the fact that Senator ALEXANDER worked on issues in the budget. He would always talk about matters down in Charleston. He also always talked about, "There's gold in those hills over in Oconee." He worked to serve those that are in the Oconee area as well as those in Charleston. He has worked on and shaped laws and policies that have benefitted South Carolinians from the dawn of their lives until the twilight of their lives. I had the honor of serving with him on the Committee on Aging, and we know he was tapped to work on reopening South Carolina during the pandemic.

During his decades of service, he has also learned what it means to be a Senator and what the institution of the Senate needs to mean. I have no doubt he loves being a Senator. He loves the Senate, and as PRESIDENT, he will safeguard this institution in its enormous role in the legislative process, and as a check and balance on the other branches of government. Something that we should always notice -- there are times the Senate needs to stand together, there are some times when we are dealing with the executive branch, the House, or dealing with another issue where the Senate has to stand together. If you think about it, we watch these votes that come up. Something that was key for me is that when we have to have some times -- when we challenge the ruling of the Chair, it is important to vote during that time, not what is politically expedient, but what is right.

For a person in a minority party watching someone that would ascend -- it is very important to know the person will try to do what is right. Senator ALEXANDER is a Republican, but he has shown with his work on a myriad of issues that he will work with the other party, and do so with respect for the other side's beliefs. He has shown that he will do what is right, and that does not always have to be an issue of partisanship. At the end of the day, the only majority that matters is that we are all South Carolinians.

Senator PEELER, you and Senator MASSEY and I had a long conversation about who should ascend to the PRESIDENCY. One of those times we were talking about whether or not you should be chair of a committee and be PRESIDENT of the Senate. Senator MASSEY said, "I don't want someone ruling on points of order from the committee." Many of you may or may not know that decision was made during the time in a meeting where we all came together and made that decision. Senator PEELER was hesitating in the beginning and Senator ALEXANDER stepped forward to take the role. That lasted for a period of time, even up to now. He stepped forward then, and so it was incumbent that when the time came -- that he waited his time, and he is fit and proper for this position. I would also like to say, the Senator is not a doctrinarian, he is not narrow minded, he votes on the correct side of those issues that I said are challenges from the chair. He has great humility, he is not stubborn, he is always looking for a resolution. But most important -- he is not close minded. He looks at this Senate, grounded in the rules of precedent, process and congeniality -- and yes, seniority. Seniority does matter. Senator ALEXANDER adheres to Jefferson's manual. If you look in this book, these 53 articles are critical because it makes certain that there is no tyranny in the simple majority. Senator ALEXANDER has always followed that. And the rule of precedent is critical.

And with that, I will end saying, it is with great honor that I come before you and ask that you all join with me in this last quote, "With great and good conscience for this Senate as our only reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forward to lead the land we love, asking His blessings and His help, but knowing there on earth, God's work must truly be our own." That came from John F. Kennedy. I would ask that you all join with me and the rest of this Senate and second the nomination of Senator THOMAS ALEXANDER, as PRESIDENT of the Senate -- because when he gave up his committee to do this work, we know his personal loss is our collective gain. And Lynda, we know it makes him happy. So I second the nomination for THOMAS ALEXANDER as PRESIDENT of the Senate.

Remarks by Senator MARTIN

Thank you Mr. Floor Leader. Members of the Senate, it is an honor to be standing here today with my good friend Senator THOMAS ALEXANDER from Oconee. We talked at length today about relationships that have been built over the years. I consider you my friend and we have spent a lot of time together. We have actually been subchairmen together and had to make many decisions even if we did not personally feel that way about a particular issue. That is why I know when it comes to taking the roll of PRESIDENT, and Senator PEELER, I want to thank you for taking that job and serving as our first PRESIDENT you have done a great job, I feel like Senator ALEXANDER will follow those footsteps and also do a great job. When we talk about working for the betterment of the Senate and everything we do here, it must be made on building relationships. I feel that you will make your decisions based on the best interest of this Body and the State rather than your personal feelings on a particular issue or point of order that may be raised. That is why I am honored to second your nomination and I am honored to be your friend. Thank you.

On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senators PEELER, MALLOY and MARTIN were ordered printed in the Journal.

PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR

On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the Privilege of the floor was extended to the family of the PRESIDENT.

Administration of Oath of Office

Senator ALEXANDER presented himself at the Bar and the Oath of Office was administered by Senator PEELER.

Motion Adopted

Senator MASSEY asked unanimous consent for the PRESIDENT to address the Senate.

Senator ALEXANDER was recognized for brief remarks.

Remarks by Senator ALEXANDER

Members of the South Carolina State Senate, my heart is full with gratitude as you have entrusted me with the role of serving as PRESIDENT of the institution we all love and revere, the South Carolina State Senate.

This is an exciting yet humbling day. I am excited that Senator PEELER is our Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. Chairman PEELER, you will always be the first PRESIDENT chosen from within our membership to lead us. You have served the South Carolina State Senate in the role of PRESIDENT with great distinction. Thank you.

Likewise, I am humbled by your confidence in me to serve as your presiding officer to do our work for the people of the palmetto state. Thank you for your support.

If you will allow me a moment to grieve, today is the first day I have attended a legislative session day without the presence, the guidance and the counsel of Chairman LEATHERMAN. Like most of you, I sometimes received that "hand on the shoulder" from Chairman LEATHERMAN. That gesture was usually gentle but always instructive. And I will miss him, as I know you will too.

It was 1994 when I was first elected to the Senate, moving across the State House lobby from the House of Representatives. I was blessed to find a mentor, Senator J. Verne Smith, who took me under his wing. For those of you who had the honor to serve with Senator Smith, he sometimes had a very direct way of explaining things. I benefitted from his friendship, his counsel and even his blunt lessons.

I've learned from the myriad who have come before me, especially Senator HARVEY PEELER, Senator HUGH LEATHERMAN and Senator Verne Smith. Because of their examples as leaders, I cherish the traditions practiced in this Body that make the Senate so unique and necessary for our representative form of government. I pledge to uphold those traditions.

The South Carolina State Senate is an institution of rules. As your PRESIDENT, I will insist on adherence to the "rules of the Senate."

The South Carolina State Senate is an institution of decorum. As your PRESIDENT, I will insist upon and enforce decorum in this Chamber.

The South Carolina Senate is an institution of fairness and compromise. As your PRESIDENT, I will be fair and do my part to foster compromise.

In St. Paul's letter to the church in Rome, he wrote, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them that are called according to his purpose." So, I thank the good Lord and look forward to the ways his divine providence continues to guide me.

I would also like to thank my family, especially my wife Lynda who truly serves as a partner in my service in the State Senate, daughters Carren, Jennifer and Mari are here today along with my brothers and sisters, Neal, Anne, Susan and Bill, many of my grandchildren and other family members. As we all know, we do not fulfill our obligations to the Senate in isolation. It takes the support of family to be successful in the State Senate. Thank you to the entire Alexander family.

As I reflect on the meaning of this day, sweet memories of my parents Claude and Virginia Alexander fill my mind and my heart. It is from them that I learned the importance of public service and hard work because they provided that example for me.

I would also like to say thank you to the wonderful constituents of Senate District 1 of Oconee and Pickens counties. Your support is the reason I am able to serve. My home is called the "Golden Corner" of the State. That name is not because of a precious metal. Instead, it is a reference to the character of heart within our communities.

Again, thanks to each of you, my Senate colleagues. I cherish your friendship and deeply appreciate this opportunity. It is an honor and privilege to serve as your PRESIDENT. May God continue to bless you and this great State of South Carolina.

On motion of Senator SETZLER, with unanimous consent, the remarks of Senator ALEXANDER were ordered printed in the Journal.

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator MASSEY, with unanimous consent, the committee selection process in Rule 19 was waived and a vacancy was filled in the following manner:

Senator ALEXANDER filled a vacancy on the Legislative Oversight Committee.

Senator HUTTO filled a vacancy on the Interstate Cooperation Committee.

Senator GROOMS filled a vacancy on the Ethics Committee.

Senator CROMER vacated a seat on the Family and Veterans' Services Committee.

Senator MASSEY filled a vacancy on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee as a 5th committee selection.

Senator DAVIS vacated a seat on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and filled a vacancy on the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee as a 5th committee selection.

Senator TURNER vacated a seat on the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee and fills a vacancy on the Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee.

Senator YOUNG filled a vacancy on the Finance Committee.

Senator CASH vacated a seat on the Banking and Insurance Committee and filled a vacancy on the Transportation Committee.

Senator ADAMS vacated a seat on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and filled a vacancy on the Banking and Insurance Committee.

Senator GUSTAFSON vacated a seat on the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee.

Senator M. JOHNSON vacated a seat on the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee and filled a vacancy on the Rules Committee.

Senator KIMBRELL vacated a seat on the Corrections and Penology Committee and filled a vacancy on the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee.

STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

In accordance with Rule 19, the following Senators assumed chairmanships of the standing committees:

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Senator Harvey S. Peeler, Jr., Chairman

LABOR, COMMERCE, AND INDUSTRY COMMITTEE

Senator Tom Davis, Chairman

LEGISLATIVE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE

Senator Thomas C. Alexander, Chairman

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR

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

Local Appointments

Reappointment, Abbeville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2018, and to expire April 30, 2022
Robert Devore, 758 Haddon Road, Donalds, SC 29638-8956

Initial Appointment, York County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2019, and to expire April 30, 2023
Jennifer Susan Kottka Colton, 1619 Hunters Place Road, York, SC 29745-7691

Initial Appointment, York County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2019, and to expire April 30, 2023
Katie Vaughn, 1939 Sharon Road, York, SC 29745-9339

CO-SPONSORS ADDED

The following co-sponsors were added to the respective Bills:
S. 177 (Word version)     Sen. Grooms

S. 187 (Word version)     Sen. Young
S. 188 (Word version)     Sen. Young
S. 189 (Word version)     Sen. Young
S. 214 (Word version)     Sen. Young
S. 217 (Word version)     Sen. Young
S. 262 (Word version)     Sen. Senn
S. 290 (Word version)     Sen. M. Johnson
S. 538 (Word version)     Sen. Rice
S. 586 (Word version)     Sen. Verdin
S. 591 (Word version)     Sens. Senn and Stephens
S. 639 (Word version)     Sen. Kimbrell

CO-SPONSOR REMOVED

The following co-sponsors were removed from the respective Bills:
S. 150 (Word version)     Sen. Adams
S. 290 (Word version)     Sen. Hembree

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS

The following were introduced:

S. 864 (Word version) -- Senators M. Johnson and Climer: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE CHIEF OF POLICE STEVE PARKER UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE TEGA CAY POLICE DEPARTMENT, TO THANK HIM FOR NEARLY THREE DECADES OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 865 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin, Campsen, Young, Sabb, Matthews, Talley and Harpootlian: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-1-715, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ADOPTION OF THE UNITED STATES CENSUS, SO AS TO ADOPT THE UNITED STATES CENSUS OF 2020 AS THE TRUE AND CORRECT ENUMERATION OF INHABITANTS OF THIS STATE AND TO IDENTIFY THE DATA USED IN THE CODE SECTIONS CONTAINING GEOGRAPHIC ASSIGNMENTS FOR ELECTION DISTRICTS; BY ADDING SECTION 2-1-75 SO AS TO ESTABLISH ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE ARE ELECTED COMMENCING WITH THE 2024 GENERAL ELECTION; BY ADDING SECTION 2-1-45 SO AS TO ESTABLISH ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ARE ELECTED BEGINNING WITH THE 2022 GENERAL ELECTION; TO REPEAL SECTION 2-1-70 RELATING TO ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE SENATE WERE FORMERLY ELECTED; TO REPEAL SECTION 2-1-35 RELATING TO ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WERE FORMERLY ELECTED; TO AUTHORIZE THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AND SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE TO INTERVENE IN ANY STATE OR FEDERAL ACTION CONCERNING THIS LEGISLATION; TO AUTHORIZE THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE TO INITIATE OR OTHERWISE PARTICIPATE IN LITIGATION ON BEHALF OF THE SENATE REGARDING REDISTRICTING; AND TO AUTHORIZE THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO INITIATE OR OTHERWISE PARTICIPATE IN LITIGATION ON BEHALF OF THE HOUSE REGARDING REDISTRICTING.
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Read the first time and, on motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, S. 865 was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

Senators RANKIN, SABB and CAMPSEN spoke on the Bill.

S. 866 (Word version) -- Senator Malloy: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE DR. ITALY ALBERT GREENE ON THE OCCASION OF HIS ONE HUNDREDTH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HIM A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MUCH HAPPINESS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 867 (Word version) -- Senator Fanning: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF PAMELA JENKINS, TO CELEBRATE HER LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENTS, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 868 (Word version) -- Senator Fanning: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO SALUTE JOHN CHARLES "BULLIT" KILLIAN OF CHESTER COUNTY FOR A LIFETIME OF SERVICE TO HIS COMMUNITY, STATE, AND NATION; TO CONGRATULATE HIM AT THE CELEBRATION OF HIS EIGHTIETH BIRTHDAY; AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HEALTH AND HAPPINESS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 869 (Word version) -- Senator Matthews: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF PATRICK LASAINE THOMAS OF COLLETON COUNTY, TO CELEBRATE HIS LIFE, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 870 (Word version) -- Senator Stephens: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF JOSHUA MATTHEWS OF BOWMAN, TO CELEBRATE HIS LIFE, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 871 (Word version) -- Senator McLeod: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE ANDREW HUGINE, JR., PH.D., PRESIDENT OF ALABAMA AGRICULTURAL & MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY, UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT, TO HONOR HIM FOR HIS DECADES OF DEDICATED SERVICE AS AN EDUCATOR, AND TO WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS AND FULFILLMENT IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 872 (Word version) -- Senator Setzler: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE DIRECTOR BYRON SNELLGROVE UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AS DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS THIRTY-EIGHT YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITY OF CAYCE, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 873 (Word version) -- Senator Hutto: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE FRANK L. "VAL" VALENTA, JR., UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AS GENERAL COUNSEL OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS FORTY-THREE YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 874 (Word version) -- Senator Setzler: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE PAT G. SMITH, AGENCY DIRECTOR OF WIL LOU GRAY OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL, UPON THE OCCASION OF THE SCHOOL'S ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY, TO COMMEND HIM FOR HIS FORTY-SIX YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE SCHOOL, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH HAPPINESS AND FULFILLMENT IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 875 (Word version) -- Senator Setzler: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE TEACHERS, ADMINISTRATORS, AND STAFF OF WIL LOU GRAY OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL UPON THE OCCASION OF THE SCHOOL'S ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY AND TO COMMEND THEM FOR THEIR DEDICATED SERVICE TO THEIR STUDENTS AND THE PEOPLE AND THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 876 (Word version) -- Senator Cromer: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE THE NEWBERRY ACADEMY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS ON AN OUTSTANDING SEASON AND TO HONOR THEM FOR WINNING THE SOUTH CAROLINA CLASS A GIRLS VOLLEYBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 877 (Word version) -- Senator Alexander: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR GEORGE M. OXNER FOR HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 878 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF ARTHUR CARL NUTTALL AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 879 (Word version) -- Senator Turner: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO COMMEND THE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS WHO LIVE AND WORK IN THE GREAT STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO ENCOURAGE ALL SOUTH CAROLINIANS TO HONOR OUR ENGINEERS FOR THEIR MANY CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PALMETTO STATE'S QUALITY OF LIFE, AND TO RECOGNIZE TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2022, AS "PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 880 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF ADDISON "JACK" GREENE, TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS, AND TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME GREENTOWN ROAD IN BERKELEY COUNTY, FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH HARRISTOWN ROAD TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH SANTEE RIVER ROAD, "ADDISON 'JACK' GREENE MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THIS DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 881 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE DOUG MCELVEEN FOR RECEIVING THE 2022 TIME DEALER OF THE YEAR AWARD.
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The Concurrent Resolution was adopted, ordered sent to the House.

S. 882 (Word version) -- Senator Gambrell: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE AND HONOR KATHY D. HIPP OF ANDERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT 3 UPON BEING NAMED 2022 SOUTH CAROLINA SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR BY THE SOUTH CAROLINA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 883 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO CONGRATULATE MAIN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY, TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR THE CHURCH FOR ITS DEEP HERITAGE IN THE DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA COMMUNITY, AND TO COMMEND ITS LEADERSHIP AND CONGREGATION FOR THEIR MANY YEARS OF SERVICE TO THIS COMMUNITY.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 884 (Word version) -- Senator Jackson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF WILLIAM "BILL" TERRELL OF COLUMBIA, TO CELEBRATE HIS LIFE, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 885 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson and Scott: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF THE HONORABLE JIMMY C. BALES OF EASTOVER, TO CELEBRATE HIS LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENTS, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 886 (Word version) -- Senator Kimpson: A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE PASSING OF JAY PATEL OF NORTH CHARLESTON AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
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The Senate Resolution was adopted.

S. 887 (Word version) -- Senators Rice, Garrett, Adams, Kimbrell and Massey: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-1520 SO AS TO REQUIRE COMMISSIONERS AND ALTERNATES TO A CONVENTION OF STATES OR TO A STATE RATIFICATION CONVENTION TO TAKE AN OATH, TO PROVIDE CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR THOSE COMMISSIONERS AND ALTERNATES WHO ARE CONVICTED OF VIOLATING THE REQUIRED OATH; AND TO DEFINE RELEVANT TERMS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 888 (Word version) -- Senators M. Johnson, Kimbrell, Garrett, Adams, Climer and Young: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 11, TITLE 40 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO CONTRACTORS, TO PROVIDE FOR A VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTION TO BE MADE UPON APPLICATION FOR A CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE TO BE APPLIED TO ACCREDITED PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING OFFERING COURSES IN BUILDING SCIENCE OR CIVIL ENGINEERING; TO PROVIDE FOR DISTRIBUTION; AND TO IMPOSE A REPORTING REQUIREMENT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 889 (Word version) -- Senators Loftis, Kimbrell, Verdin and Rice: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-13-20, RELATING TO DECLARATION OF STATE HUMAN AFFAIRS POLICY, TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL MAY NOT BE DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE OF VACCINATION STATUS; TO AMEND SECTION 1-13-30, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS, TO PROVIDE A DEFINITION FOR AN IMMUNITY PASSPORT AND VACCINATION STATUS; AND TO AMEND CHAPTER 13, TITLE 1 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO DISCRIMINATION POLICY, TO ADD SECTION 1-13-75, TO PROVIDE THAT DISCRIMINATION BASED ON A PERSON'S VACCINATION STATUS OR POSSESSION OF AN IMMUNITY PASSPORT BE UNLAWFUL.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 890 (Word version) -- Senators Loftis, Rice and Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 6 OF CHAPTER 3, TITLE 16, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO UNLAWFUL HAZING, SO AS TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS, TO RESTRUCTURE THE OFFENSES AND PENALTIES ASSOCIATED WITH UNLAWFUL HAZING, AND TO REQUIRE TIMELY REPORTING OF HAZING INCIDENTS; TO AMEND SECTION 59-101-200, RELATING TO HAZING AND DEFINITIONS REGARDING HAZING, SO AS TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF "HAZING" TO CONFORM TO THE DEFINITION CONTAINED IN SECTION 16-3-505; AND BY ADDING SECTION 59-101-220 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT EACH PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING SHALL DEVELOP A COMPREHENSIVE ANTI-HAZING POLICY, TO SET MINIMUM PARAMETERS OF WHAT MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE POLICY, AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE POLICY ON THE INSTITUTION'S WEBSITE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 891 (Word version) -- Senators Adams, Grooms, Garrett, Rice, Cash and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 1, TITLE 15 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO GENERAL PROVISIONS CONCERNING CIVIL REMEDIES AND PROCEDURES, BY ADDING SECTION 15-1-350, TO PROVIDE THAT AN EMPLOYER WHO MANDATES THAT EMPLOYEES RECEIVE A COVID-19 VACCINE AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT IS LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES ARISING FROM AN ADVERSE HEALTH CONDITION SUFFERED BY HIS EMPLOYEE AS A RESULT OF RECEIVING THE VACCINE; AND TO PROVIDE AN EXEMPTION TO EMPLOYERS MANDATED BY FEDERAL LAW OR REGULATION TO REQUIRE HIS EMPLOYEES TO RECEIVE THE COVID-19 VACCINE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 892 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-186, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE STATEWIDE VOTER REGISTRATION DATABASE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO DEVELOP CERTAIN SECURITY PROTOCOLS AND TO CERTIFY COMPLIANCE AT LEAST ANNUALLY; TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-430, RELATING TO REGISTRATION BOOKS FOR ELECTIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO DEVELOP CERTAIN SECURITY PROTOCOLS FOR ELECTRONIC POLL BOOKS AND TO CERTIFY COMPLIANCE AT LEAST ANNUALLY; TO AMEND SECTIONS 7-13-320 AND 7-13-610, BOTH RELATING TO BALLOT STANDARDS, BOTH SO AS TO REQUIRE BALLOTS BE PRINTED ON PAPER WITH CERTAIN FEATURES; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1330, RELATING TO THE APPROVAL OF OPTICAL SCAN VOTING SYSTEMS, SO AS TO REQUIRE ANY OPTICAL SCAN VOTING SYSTEM TO BE CERTIFIED AS MEETING OR EXCEEDING THE MOST CURRENT FEDERAL VOTING SYSTEM STANDARDS; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1340, RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS FOR VOTE RECORDERS AND OPTICAL SCAN VOTING DEVICES, SO AS TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN FUNCTIONALITIES AND FEATURES DURING VOTING; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1370, RELATING TO BALLOT CARD SPECIFICATIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL BALLOT CARDS TO BE SOURCED SOLELY BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1620, RELATING TO THE VOTING SYSTEM APPROVAL PROCESS, SO AS TO REQUIRE A VOTING SYSTEM TO BE CERTIFIED AS MEETING OR EXCEEDING THE MOST CURRENT FEDERAL VOTING SYSTEM STANDARDS; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1640, RELATING TO VOTING MACHINE REQUIREMENTS, SO AS TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN FUNCTIONALITIES AND FEATURES DURING VOTING, AND TO REQUIRE CERTAIN ELECTRONIC RECORDS BE PRESERVED AS ELECTION RECORDS; TO AMEND SECTION 7-13-1710, RELATING TO VOTING MACHINE BALLOT SPECIFICATIONS, SO AS TO REQUIRE ALL VOTING MACHINE BALLOTS TO BE SOURCED SOLELY BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 7-13-440 RELATING TO VOTING MACHINE BALLOTS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 893 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-210, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE SPECIFICATIONS OF THE ABSENTEE BALLOT RETURN-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE RETURN-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE TO BE MARKED "RETURN TO SENDER" IN THE EVENT THE ENVELOPE IS UNDELIVERABLE; TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-220, RELATING TO SIGNING AND WITNESSING THE ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANT'S OATH, SO AS TO DEFINE "PROOF OF IDENTITY", TO REQUIRE ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANTS TO INCLUDE PROOF OF IDENTITY TOGETHER WITH THEIR SIGNED OATHS, TO PROHIBIT A PERSON FROM SERVING AS A WITNESS FOR MORE THAN FIVE ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANTS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT IF AN ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANT FAILS TO INCLUDE THE REQUIRED PROOF OF IDENTITY, THEN HIS BALLOT MUST BE TREATED AS A PROVISIONAL BALLOT; TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-330, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICATIONS, SO AS TO REVISE THE APPLICABLE PROCEDURES; TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-340, RELATING TO THE FORM OF AN ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICATION, SO AS TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, SPECIFY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION THAT MUST BE INCLUDED ON THE ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICATION; TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-370, RELATING TO THE FURNISHING OF BALLOTS AND ENVELOPES AND THE DUTIES OF THE COUNTY REGISTRATION BOARD, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE COUNTY BOARDS OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS TO FURNISH, AMONG OTHER THINGS, PRINTED INSTRUCTIONS RELATING TO ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANTS PROVIDING PROOF OF IDENTITY TOGETHER WITH THEIR SIGNED OATHS, AND RETURN-ADDRESSED ENVELOPES MARKED "RETURN TO SENDER" IN THE EVENT THE ENVELOPE IS UNDELIVERABLE; TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-380, RELATING TO THE ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANT'S OATH, SO AS TO REQUIRE, AMONG OTHER THINGS, ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANTS TO INCLUDE PROOF OF IDENTITY TOGETHER WITH THEIR SIGNED OATHS, TO PROHIBIT A PERSON FROM SERVING AS A WITNESS FOR MORE THAN FIVE ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANTS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT IF AN ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANT FAILS TO INCLUDE THE REQUIRED PROOF OF IDENTITY, THEN HIS BALLOT MUST BE TREATED AS A PROVISIONAL BALLOT; AND TO AMEND SECTION 7-15-385, RELATING TO THE MARKING AND RETURN OF ABSENTEE BALLOTS, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT A CANDIDATE OR A MEMBER OF A CANDIDATE'S PAID CAMPAIGN STAFF INCLUDING CAMPAIGN VOLUNTEERS IS NOT PERMITTED TO SERVE AS AN AUTHORIZED RETURNEE FOR ANY PERSON UNLESS THE PERSON IS A MEMBER OF THE VOTER'S IMMEDIATE FAMILY, TO PROVIDE THAT THE OATH SET FORTH IN SECTION 7-15-380 MUST BE SIGNED, INCLUDE PROOF OF IDENTITY, AND WITNESSED ON EACH RETURNED ENVELOPE, AND TO PROVIDE THAT IF AN ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICANT FAILS TO INCLUDE THE REQUIRED PROOF OF IDENTITY, THEN HIS BALLOT MUST BE TREATED AS A PROVISIONAL BALLOT.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 894 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-3-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO ESTABLISH RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR VOTER REGISTRATIONS PERFORMED BY PRIVATE ENTITIES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-170, RELATING TO THE REQUIREMENTS FOR VOTER REGISTRATION, SO AS TO REQUIRE THE COUNTY BOARDS OF VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTIONS TO DATE STAMP ALL VOTER REGISTRATION APPLICATIONS DELIVERED BY HAND OR BY MAIL.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 895 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-3-20, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION, SO AS TO FURTHER DEFINE HIS DUTIES; TO AMEND SECTION 7-3-40, RELATING TO MONTHLY REPORTS TO THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION OF PERSONS WHO HAVE DIED IN THE STATE, SO AS TO INCLUDE PERSONS WHO DIED OUT-OF-STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 7-5-186, RELATING TO THE STATEWIDE VOTER REGISTRATION DATABASE, SO AS TO CLARIFY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION'S DUTIES IN MAINTAINING AND ADMINISTERING THE DATABASE; AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 7-5-320, 7-5-330, AND 7-5-340, ALL RELATING TO VOTER REGISTRATION AND VOTER LIST MAINTENANCE, ALL SO AS TO REQUIRE THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION TO REMOVE VOTERS FROM THE OFFICIAL LIST OF ELIGIBLE VOTERS WITHIN SEVEN DAYS OF RECEIPT OF INFORMATION AFFECTING VOTER ELIGIBILITY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 896 (Word version) -- Senator McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 23, TITLE 23 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, BY ADDING SECTION 23-23-160, TO REQUIRE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES DEVELOP A USE OF FORCE POLICY, TO REQUIRE THAT THE SOUTH CAROLINA LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING COUNCIL DEVELOP A MODEL USE OF FORCE POLICY THAT MAY BE ADOPTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES, TO MANDATE USE OF FORCE TRAINING AT THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY, TO PROVIDE THAT A LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY THAT DOES NOT IMPLEMENT A USE OF FORCE POLICY LOSES QUALIFIED IMMUNITY FOR ITS OFFICERS, AND TO PROVIDE THAT LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IN A DEPARTMENT THAT DOES NOT ADOPT AN APPROVED USE OF FORCE POLICY ARE NOT SUBJECT TO QUALIFIED IMMUNITY FOR ANY INCIDENT THAT OCCURS WHICH WOULD BE ADDRESSED BY THE MODEL USE OF FORCE POLICY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 897 (Word version) -- Senator McLeod: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 1, TITLE 50 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO FISH, GAME, AND WATERCRAFT, BY ADDING SECTION 50-1-55, TO PROVIDE THAT BOAT LANDINGS AND RAMPS BE MARKED AND CATEGORIZED BY COUNTY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.

S. 898 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 7-1-25, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "DOMICILE", SO AS TO CLARIFY CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH A PERSON IS DEEMED TO HAVE CHANGED HIS DOMICILE FOR VOTING PURPOSES, AND TO REVISE THE FACTORS USED TO DETERMINE A PERSON'S INTENTION REGARDING HIS DOMICILE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 899 (Word version) -- Senators Loftis, Rice, Kimbrell and Corbin: A BILL TO MAKE SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS TO THE STATE HUMAN AFFAIRS COMMISSION TO MEET CERTAIN VACCINATION RIGHTS REQUIREMENTS; TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, TO ENACT THE "SOUTH CAROLINA VACCINATION RIGHTS ACT OF 2022" BY ADDING SECTION 1-13-120 SO AS TO SET FORTH CERTAIN UNLAWFUL DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES RELATING TO REQUIREMENTS INVOLVING A PERSON'S VACCINATION STATUS OR THE POSSESSION OF AN IMMUNITY PASSPORT; TO AMEND SECTION 1-13-30, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS REGARDING THE STATE HUMAN AFFAIRS COMMISSION, SO AS TO DEFINE "VACCINATION STATUS" AND "IMMUNITY PASSPORT"; AND TO AMEND SECTION 1-13-20, RELATING TO THE POLICY AGAINST DISCRIMINATION, SO AS TO MAKE ADDITIONAL DECLARATIONS REGARDING THE PRIVACY OF MEDICAL RECORDS AND DISCRIMINATION BY VACCINATION STATUS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 900 (Word version) -- Senators Loftis and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, TO ENACT THE "PARENTAL BILL OF RIGHTS" BY ADDING CHAPTER 23 TO TITLE 63 SO AS TO PROVIDE NECESSARY FINDINGS AND DEFINITIONS, TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN GOVERNMENT INFRINGEMENT ON THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS OF PARENTS TO DIRECT THE UPBRINGING, EDUCATION, HEALTH CARE, AND MENTAL HEALTH CARE OF THEIR CHILDREN EXCEPT IN LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES, TO RESERVE ALL PARENTAL RIGHTS TO THE PARENTS OF CHILDREN IN THIS STATE AND TO PROVIDE A NONEXHAUSTIVE LIST OF SUCH RIGHTS, TO PROVIDE RELATED REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING PUBLIC EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS AND HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND TO MAKE THESE PROVISIONS APPLICABLE NOTWITHSTANDING CONTRARY PROVISIONS IN DECLARED STATES OF EMERGENCY; AND TO AMEND SECTION 63-5-340, RELATING TO THE AGE OF CONSENT FOR MINORS TO CERTAIN HEALTH CARE SERVICES, SO AS TO INCREASE THE AGE OF CONSENT TO EIGHTEEN.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

S. 901 (Word version) -- Senator Verdin: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-3775, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO INCOME TAX CREDITS, SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR AN INCOME TAX CREDIT TO AN INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS THAT CONSTRUCTS, PURCHASES, OR LEASES CERTAIN SOLAR ENERGY PROPERTY AND THAT PLACES IT IN SERVICE IN THIS STATE, AND TO DEFINE NECESSARY TERMS; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 4 B OF ACT 77 OF 2019 RELATING TO THE REPEAL OF SECTION 12-6-3775.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 902 (Word version) -- Senators Malloy, Martin, M. Johnson, Garrett, Davis and Talley: A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 9, TITLE 42 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION, BY ADDING SECTION 42-9-50, TO PROVIDE THAT EMPLOYEES MAY SEEK COMPENSATION FOR ADVERSE HEALTH CONDITIONS OR DEATH CAUSED BY AN EMPLOYER-MANDATED COVID-19 VACCINE.
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Senator MALLOY spoke on the Bill.

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

S. 903 (Word version) -- Senator Davis: A BILL TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 12-6-3791 SO AS TO ALLOW AN INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO A SCHOLARSHIP FUNDING ORGANIZATION THAT PROVIDES GRANTS FOR STUDENTS TO ATTEND CERTAIN INDEPENDENT AND HOME SCHOOLS, TO SPECIFY THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CREDIT IS CLAIMED, TO SPECIFY THE PROCESS BY WHICH CERTAIN ORGANIZATIONS AND SCHOOLS BECOME ELIGIBLE, TO SPECIFY CERTAIN INFORMATION WHICH MUST BE MADE PUBLIC, AND TO ALLOW THE STATE TREASURER AND DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO ENFORCE THE PROVISIONS OF THE CREDIT; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 12-6-3790 RELATING TO THE EDUCATIONAL CREDIT FOR EXCEPTIONAL NEEDS CHILDREN'S FUND.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

S. 904 (Word version) -- Senator Shealy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 40-79-20(2) AND (6) OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO ALARM SYSTEM DEFINITIONS, TO FURTHER DEFINE ALARM SYSTEM BUSINESS AND BURGLAR ALARM SYSTEM BUSINESS; AND TO AMEND SECTION 40-79-310(7) OF THE 1976 CODE, TO REMOVE CAMERA AND CARD ACCESS ALARMS FROM THE EXCLUSIONS FROM THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 79, TITLE 40 OF THE 1976 CODE.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 905 (Word version) -- Senator Shealy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 63-9-30(10) OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO DEFINITIONS UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA ADOPTION ACT, TO PROVIDE THAT A "CHILD WITH CHALLENGING ADOPTION CIRCUMSTANCES" OR "CHILDREN WITH CHALLENGING ADOPTION CIRCUMSTANCES" MEANS CHILDREN WHO ARE MEMBERS OF A SIBLING GROUP, CHILDREN AGED SIX OR OLDER, OR CHILDREN WITH PHYSICAL, MENTAL, OR EMOTIONAL DISABILITIES; TO AMEND SECTION 63-9-60(B)(1)(A), SECTION 63-9-750(A), SECTION 63-9-1370(B), SECTION 63-9-1750(1), AND SECTION 63-9-2030(A) AND (D) OF THE 1976 CODE, ALL RELATING TO CERTAIN PROVISIONS UNDER THE SOUTH CAROLINA ADOPTION ACT, TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; TO AMEND SECTION 12-6-1140(7) OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO DEDUCTIONS FROM INDIVIDUAL TAXABLE INCOME FOR CERTAIN ADOPTED CHILDREN, TO MAKE CONFORMING CHANGES; AND TO PROVIDE THAT A CHILD WHO FORMERLY QUALIFIED AS A SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD AND RECEIVED CERTAIN ADOPTION BENEFITS PURSUANT TO THIS STATUS SHALL CONTINUE TO RECEIVE THOSE BENEFITS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

S. 906 (Word version) -- Senator Shealy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 43-35-10(3) OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF "EXPLOITATION" IN THE "OMNIBUS ADULT PROTECTION ACT", TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "EXPLOITATION" TO INCLUDE THE EXERCISE OF EXTREME UNDUE INFLUENCE OVER, COERCIVE PERSUASION OF, OR PSYCHOLOGICALLY DAMAGING MANIPULATION OF A VULNERABLE ADULT; AND TO FURTHER AMEND SECTION 43-35-10 BY ADDING A DEFINITION FOR "UNDUE INFLUENCE".
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Family and Veterans' Services.

S. 907 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 41, TITLE 44 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO ABORTIONS, BY ADDING SECTION 44-41-90 TO REQUIRE THE DISCLOSURE OF MEDICAL INFORMATION TO PERSONS WHO MAY RECEIVE A CHEMICALLY INDUCED ABORTION, WITH EXCEPTIONS.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Medical Affairs.

S. 908 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin and Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 56-5-4445 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO THE RESTRICTION OF ELEVATING OR LOWERING A MOTOR VEHICLE, TO PROHIBIT MOTOR VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS THAT RESULT IN THE MOTOR VEHICLE'S FRONT FENDER BEING RAISED FOUR OR MORE INCHES ABOVE THE HEIGHT OF THE REAR FENDER.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 909 (Word version) -- Senator Williams: A BILL TO AUTHORIZE THE MARION COUNTY COUNCIL TO POSTPONE FOR ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ITS COUNTYWIDE PROPERTY TAX EQUALIZATION AND REASSESSMENT PROGRAM FOR THE 2023 TAX YEAR.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

S. 910 (Word version) -- Senator Grooms: A BILL TO AMEND SECTIONS 1, 2, AND 3 OF ACT 518 OF 1982, AS LAST AMENDED BY ACT 408 OF 2012, RELATING TO THE COMPOSITION OF THE BERKELEY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION, TO PROVIDE THAT EIGHT BOARD MEMBERS SHALL BE ELECTED IN NON-PARTISAN ELECTIONS FROM SINGLE-MEMBER DISTRICTS IN WHICH THEY ARE RESIDENTS, COTERMINOUS WITH COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICTS AND SHARING THE CORRESPONDING DISTRICT NUMBERS; TO PROVIDE THAT ONE MEMBER SHALL BE ELECTED FROM THE COUNTY AT-LARGE; TO STAGGER TERMS OF OFFICE; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 3A OF ACT 518 OF 1982, AS LAST AMENDED BY ACT 296 OF 2012, RELATING TO APPORTIONING NINE SINGLE- MEMBER SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICTS IN THE COUNTY.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

S. 911 (Word version) -- Senators Climer and Kimbrell: A BILL TO AMEND ARTICLE 1, CHAPTER 1, TITLE 13 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO GENERAL PROVISIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, BY ADDING SECTION 13-1-55, TO PROHIBIT THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE FROM OFFERING OR AWARDING INCENTIVES TO CERTAIN COMPANIES OWNED OR CONTROLLED BY THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA OR THE CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY, AND TO PROHIBIT ANY COMPANY RECEIVING AN INCENTIVE FROM CONTRACTING WITH SUCH PROHIBITED COMPANIES; AND TO AMEND SECTION 4-12-30 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO FEES IN LIEU OF PROPERTY TAXES, BY ADDING AN APPROPRIATELY LETTERED NEW SUBSECTION TO PROHIBIT A COUNTY FROM ENTERING INTO AN AGREEMENT TO OFFER A FEE IN LIEU OF TAXES TO CERTAIN COMPANIES OWNED OR CONTROLLED BY THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA OR THE CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY.
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Read the first time and referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry.

S. 912 (Word version) -- Senator Stephens: A BILL TO AMEND ACT 593 OF 1992, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE LIMIT ON CASH RESERVES THAT MAY BE MAINTAINED BY DORCHESTER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS 2 AND 4, SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE LIMIT ON CASH RESERVES DOES NOT APPLY TO DORCHESTER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 IN FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022.
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Read the first time and ordered placed on the Local and Uncontested Calendar.

S. 913 (Word version) -- Senators Rankin, Sabb and Talley: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO FIX NOON ON WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022, AS THE TIME TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE SUPREME COURT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JULY 31, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 5, TO FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2027; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS, SEAT 9, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE JUNE 30, 2022, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL SERVE A NEW TERM OF THAT OFFICE, WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2022, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2024; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE JUNE 30, 2022, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL A NEW TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, TO FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, SEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, ELEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, TWELFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, TO FILL A NEW TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2028; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 4, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 6, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 3, UPON HIS RETIREMENT ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 2022, AND THE SUCCESSOR WILL FILL THE UNEXPIRED TERM OF THAT OFFICE WHICH WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2026; TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE FAMILY COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, SEAT 1, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022; AND TO ELECT A SUCCESSOR TO A CERTAIN JUDGE OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW COURT, SEAT 2, WHOSE TERM WILL EXPIRE JUNE 30, 2022.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

S. 914 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME CORSAIR STREET IN HORRY COUNTY "PATROLMAN FIRST CLASS JOE MCGARRY WAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 915 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson and McLeod: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF CUSHMAN DRIVE AND BALDWIN ROAD IN RICHLAND COUNTY "DEPUTY DARRAL KEITH LANE, SR. MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS INTERSECTION CONTAINING THIS DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 916 (Word version) -- Senators Jackson and McLeod: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION LOCATED AT THE JUNCTION OF PERCIVAL ROAD AND FAIRLAMB AVENUE IN RICHLAND COUNTY "DEPUTY JERRY LEE HURD, JR. MEMORIAL INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THIS DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 917 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE US 701 BRIDGE OVER THE GREAT PEE DEE RIVER THE "CHARLES A. HINSON MEMORIAL BRIDGE" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 918 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE INTERSECTION OF HIGHWAY 501 AND BROADWAY STREET IN HORRY COUNTY "PATROL OFFICER HENRY SCARBOROUGH INTERSECTION" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

S. 919 (Word version) -- Senator Goldfinch: A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME THE OVERPASS OF HARRELSON BOULEVARD IN HORRY COUNTY "PATROLMAN JACOB HANCHER OVERPASS" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE MARKERS OR SIGNS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THE DESIGNATION.
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The Concurrent Resolution was introduced and referred to the Committee on Transportation.

H. 4493 (Word version) -- Reps. Lucas and Murphy: A BILL TO AMEND SECTION 1-1-715, CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, RELATING TO ADOPTION OF THE UNITED STATES CENSUS, SO AS TO ADOPT THE UNITED STATES CENSUS OF 2020 AS OFFICIAL; BY ADDING SECTION 2-1-45 SO AS TO ESTABLISH ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ARE ELECTED BEGINNING WITH THE 2022 GENERAL ELECTION; AND TO REPEAL SECTION 2-1-35 RELATING TO ELECTION DISTRICTS FROM WHICH MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WERE FORMERLY ELECTED.

Read the first time and, on motion of Senator RANKIN, with unanimous consent, H. 4493 was ordered placed on the Calendar without reference.

LOCAL APPOINTMENTS
Confirmations

Having received a favorable report from the Senate, the following appointments were confirmed in open session:

Reappointment, Abbeville County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2018, and to expire April 30, 2022
Robert Devore, 758 Haddon Road, Donalds, SC 29638-8956

Initial Appointment, York County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2019, and to expire April 30, 2023
Jennifer Susan Kottka Colton, 1619 Hunters Place Road, York, SC 29745-7691
Initial Appointment, York County Magistrate, with the term to commence April 30, 2019, and to expire April 30, 2023
Katie Vaughn, 1939 Sharon Road, York, SC 29745-9339

Motion Adopted

On motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate agreed that if and when the Senate stands adjourned today, that it will adjourn to meet tomorrow morning at 11:30 A.M.

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. Ed Brown of Blacksburg, S.C. Ed was the owner and operator of Ed Browns Rodeo for 52 years. He loved providing joy and entertainment to the community he cherished so much. Ed was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.

and

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Mr. James Harry Morton of Shelby, N.C. He formed Associates Tax Services and later opened Electronic Tax Center in Cherokee County. James was a member of the S. C. Tax Council, an Accredited Business and Tax Advisor and a member of the S.C. Society of Enrolled Agents to mention a few. He was a member of Buford Street United Methodist Church and served on the Cherokee County School Board. James was a loving husband, devoted father and doting grandfather who will be dearly missed.

and

MOTION ADOPTED

On motion of Senator PEELER, with unanimous consent, the Senate stood adjourned out of respect to the memory of Dr. Walt Griffin of Gaffney, S.C. Dr. Griffin was the former President of Limestone University where he served from 1992 - 2017. He left a legacy of commitment and service to higher education that will never be forgotten. Walt was a loving husband and devoted father who will be dearly missed.

ADJOURNMENT

At 2:55 P.M., on motion of Senator MASSEY, the Senate adjourned to meet tomorrow at 11:30 A.M., under the provisions of H. 4285, the Sine Die Resolution.

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This web page was last updated on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at 5:08 P.M.