SC Senate Republican Caucus

PRESS RELEASE: South Carolina Senate Passes Heartbeat Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 9, 2023

SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE MAJORITY LEADER SHANE MASSEY RELEASES STATEMENT ON THE PASSAGE OF HEARTBEAT BILL

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Today, the State Senate passed S. 474, a bill to prohibit the performance of abortions at the point the heartbeat of an unborn child is detectable, approximately six weeks into a pregnancy. This important legislation includes exceptions in cases of rape, incest, medical emergency, or fatal fetal anomaly.

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey issued the following statement:

“Just last month, the Supreme Court of South Carolina issued a decision to strike down the strongest pro-life bill ever passed by the General Assembly, the Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act of 2021.

As a consequence, abortion is now legal in South Carolina through five months of pregnancy. While neighboring states have responded to the Dobbs decision with strong pro-life laws, South Carolina is becoming an abortion destination. In January, over one thousand abortions were performed inside the State, putting South Carolina on a trajectory to more than double its annual abortion numbers.

Fortunately, the State Senate adopted S. 474 today. This bill prohibits abortions at the point an unborn child’s heartbeat is detectable. Senate Republicans took time to read the opinions offered by the justices, and this bill incorporates our responses to the concerns they raised. I am confident that we have constructed this bill in such a manner that protects the unborn and withstands constitutional scrutiny.

I pray the South Carolina House of Representatives passes this bill quickly to help save thousands of lives in our State.”

###

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

PRESS RELEASE: South Carolina Senate Passes Healthcare Reform Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 3, 2023

SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE PASSES HEALTHCARE REFORM BILL

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Yesterday, the South Carolina Senate, under Republican leadership, overwhelmingly adopted S. 164, a bill to end the certification of need requirements for healthcare facilities. The bill, which received bipartisan support, aims to increase access to healthcare and decrease the cost of treatment.

“With this vote, South Carolinians are one step closer to greater access to more and better healthcare options, especially in rural areas of our State,” Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said. “In bipartisan fashion, Senators voted to end the outdated Certificate of Need program, thereby eliminating the need to ask the government for permission to open a healthcare facility or purchase equipment. The State should not be in the business of determining who can be in the healthcare business. More facilities and better equipment will enable more opportunities for treatment and lower costs of care. We look forward to working with the House of Representatives to send this important reform to Governor McMaster as soon as possible.”

The adoption of S. 164, by Senator Climer of York County, marks the second time the Senate has voted for a repeal of the Certificate of Need (CON) program, sending a very similar bill to the House last year. This session, due to the popularity of the legislation, the bill moved quickly out of the Senate Medical Affairs Committee and secured a priority position on the calendar.

“S. 164 will help treat a sick regulatory system that’s hindered South Carolinians access to healthcare. Getting rid of bureaucratic red tape means better health outcomes for this generation,” said Danny Verdin, Chairman of the Medical Affairs Committee.

“Twelve states have repealed their CON laws and the effect is clear and irrefutable: healthcare access and quality increases and costs decrease, especially in rural areas,” Senator Tom Davis, who advocated for the bill on the floor of the Senate, added. “For this reason, both the Obama and the Trump administrations urged states to repeal CON laws that give hospitals a monopoly over healthcare.”

###

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

PRESS RELEASE: South Carolina Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey Releases Statement on the Passage of School Choice Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 1, 2023

SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE MAJORITY LEADER SHANE MASSEY RELEASES STATEMENT ON THE PASSAGE OF SCHOOL CHOICE BILL

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Today, the South Carolina Senate adopted S. 39, a bill to establish Education Scholarship Trust Funds. Qualifying students will be able to use the scholarship funds to cover costs associated with attending the school of their choice.

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey issued the following statement:

“School choice will transform education in South Carolina. With today’s vote, Senate Republicans stood up for South Carolina’s working families. This landmark legislation will give low-income parents the option to send their children to the school that is best suited for them. School choice means the quality of a child’s education will no longer be determined by his or her zip code.”

###

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

Senate Republicans Lead Fight To Protect Life And Pass South Carolina Fetal Heartbeat and Protection From Abortion Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JANUARY 28, 2021

Legislation Clears Senate, Now Moves To The House of Representatives

 COLUMBIA, S.C. — Today the South Carolina Senate passed Senate Bill 1, known as the South Carolina Fetal Heartbeat and Protection From Abortion Act. The legislation passed the Senate by a 30-13 vote and will be referred to the House of Representatives for consideration.

The Heartbeat Bill is one of the most significant pieces of pro-life legislation to pass the Senate. If signed into law, it would ban abortions in South Carolina at the time in which a heartbeat is detectable, effectively bringing legal abortions down from twenty (20) weeks to just six to eight (6-8) weeks. The bill as passed includes exceptions for pregnancies as the result of rape, incest, or a medical emergency to protect the life of the mother. An allegation of rape or incest must be reported to the sheriff in the county in which the abortion was performed, no later than twenty-four hours after performing or inducing an abortion.

Quotables:

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey says, “Passing this bill has been a priority since day one. South Carolina sent thirty Republicans to the State Senate for a reason and this is one of the bills we hear of most often. Passage of the Heartbeat Bill will save thousands of innocent pre-born lives in our state, and strikes an appropriate balance that we feel will stand up to Court scrutiny. It has taken a lot of hard work and coordinated teamwork to get this bill across the finish line, and I’m pleased to see the bill pass with an overwhelming vote and now move to the House for a vote.”

Bill sponsor Senator Larry Grooms says, “Life is the most precious right we have. Government’s primary duty is to protect the fundamental right to life. Without life, no other rights really matter. We know that a heartbeat is the most universal and most recognizable sign of life. There is no denying the fact that when you end a heartbeat, you end a life. The Heartbeat Bill respects this fundamental right and I’m pleased to see it pass the Senate today.”

Medical Affairs Committee Chairman Senator Danny Verdin says, “Life won in the South Carolina Senate today. The rights of the unborn deserve protection under the law. No symbol of life is stronger than a beating heart, and the Heartbeat Bill ensures that when a baby’s heart is beating, the government will not sanction that life to be taken. The Medical Affairs Committee took hundreds of hours of testimony on the matter and heard from hundreds of constituents from all across South Carolina. The members of the Senate Medical Affairs Committee have worked diligently and respectfully to those testifying and colleagues of the committee throughout this process.”

###

 

We want to hear from you! SHARE your comments and questions using the form below.

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

Senate Returns To Columbia For New Legislative Session

The South Carolina State Senate returned to Columbia this week to convene the first week of regular session of the 124th General Assembly. Highlights of the week included the swearing-in of six newly elected Senators, adoption of the governing Senate Rules, the Governor’s State of the State Address, and a Medical Affairs subcommittee on Senate Bill 1.

ORGANIZATIONAL SESSION

At the start of a new legislative session, the Senate, in tradition, meets on day one to organize for a new session. One of the first acts of the organizational session is to elect the Senate President, who convenes and leads the Senate. The full Senate body votes on a Senate President to which Harvey Peeler (R-Gaffney) was unanimously elected to continue in serving as the Senate President.

In his first address to the new Senate, President Peeler said, “It’s a great honor to have the opportunity to lead this body for the next four years. I don’t take your faith in me lightly, and I hope I have proved that to you. The last two years were challenging and unpredictable. It’s not what I imagined when you first elected me president but I took on the challenge because difficult challenges is when we learn the most as leaders. We need direction when times are tough…this session will be unlike any other. You chose me to be your leader and I look forward to working with each one of year to ensure this year is healthy and successful.”

Following the November 2020 General Elections, six new Senators were elected to the body: Brian Adams (R-Berkeley), Billy Garrett (R-Greenwood), Penry Gustafson (R-Kershaw), Michael Johnson (R-York), Josh Kimbrell (R-Spartanburg) and Vernon Stephens (D-Orangeburg). Republicans will start the new legislative session with 30 of the 46 members – the largest Republican control of the State Senate in more than 150 years. We welcome our new members of the Senate Republican Caucus!

MAJORITY LEADER ELECTION

Pursuant to the Senate Rules, the Majority and Minority Caucuses are required to hold election for leader at the start of the four-year terms. The Senate Republican Caucus unanimously elected Shane Massey (R-Edgefield) to continue serving as the Senate Majority leader. Senator Massey was first elected Majority Leader in 2016.

In a statement to the press, Senator Massey said, “I am grateful to my Senate colleagues for their confidence in allowing me to continue to lead the Senate Republicans into the next legislative session. We have a great team, the people of South Carolina have seen that, and have empowered us to continue to lead on the most important of issues that affect their daily lives: continuing to combat COVID-19, reducing burdensome regulations that choke success and block high-paying jobs, making state government more accountable, and protecting the rights enumerated in the constitution. We were entrusted to lead, and we intend to work hard to better South Carolina for all its citizens.”

SENATE RULES PACKAGE

The Senate additionally approved a rules package on the first day of session. The Senate rules will govern debate and procedure for the Senate until the next legislative session. Included in this year’s rules package was an improvement to the Rule 15, “Fixing a time certain to vote,” or commonly referred to as cloture. The provision offered in the Senate Republican package would reduce unnecessary delay when debating legislation important to South Carolina citizens, while respecting the Senate’s critical role to provide careful consideration of any proposed law and ensuring that every Senator’s voice is heard when representing their constituents. It strikes the right balance.

Also included in the package was a requirement that Senators disclosure earmark requests, identify which projects for which they seek tax dollars, and publish the cost of the project, and if the project was funded. This important rule addition provides improved transparency project in the budget so that you can see where your hard-earned money is spent.

STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS

Keeping with tradition of a new session, Governor Henry McMaster gave his State of the State Address to lawmakers on Wednesday, January 13th. The full speech is available to watch HERE.

We want to hear from you! SHARE your comments and questions using the form below.

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

SC Senate Republicans Unveil SC Leads Act

On Monday, June 22, South Carolina Senate Republicans, in a press conference, unveiled a proposal to file new legislation to enhance law enforcement accountability, standards, and make other policy recommendations. The proposal known as The South Carolina Law Enforcement Accountability, Duty and Standards (SC LEADS) Act enhances law enforcement accountability, transparency, and professional standards, and seeks to strengthen trust in South Carolina.

The proposal includes:

1.Required Baseline Standards and Accreditation

    1. Requirement of an agency to adopt the baseline required standards as set forth by the Law Enforcement Training Council (LETC). may result in debarment from grant funding, civil fines, and the loss of an agency’s authority to remain a law enforcement agency.
    2. The LETC shall establish baseline required standards for all law enforcement agencies in South Carolina. Standards will include but are not limited to the following policies:
      1. Use of Force Continuum-when and how to respond to active resistance. 
      2. Uniform vehicle pursuit standards
      3. Hiring and terminating practices
      4. Mandatory post basic academy field training
      5. Implantation and use of body-worn cameras and car cams
      6. “No Knock Warrant” standards in compliance with U.S. Supreme Court decisions
      7. Duty to intervene – mandated duty on officers to intervene when observing an officer failing to meet baseline standards established or agency policy.
    3. After implementing the LETC baseline standards, agencies would be incentivized to go beyond those baseline standards through an accreditation option that is not cost prohibitive

2. Duty To Intervene

    1. Add “failure of duty to intervene” as established in baseline standards mandating officers intervene when observing failure to meet baseline standards.
    2. Failure to intervene could result in decertification and/or potential criminal charges.

3. Fully fund body-worn camera program, and South Carolina Highway Patrol car camera program

4. Mandatory Attendance at Misconduct Hearings

    1. A law enforcement agency who has reported an occurrence(s) of misconduct by an officer to the Criminal Justice Academy must fully cooperate with any investigation.

5. Non-Certified Officers and Training

    1. Strengthen requirements for officers who have not yet been certified by the academy and improve training.
      1. Support H.5109 – non-certified officers shall not perform duties unless accompanied by a certified officer
      2. require mandatory field training for all newly certified officers
    2. Require all newly appointed police chiefs to attend a chief’s school and annually obtain continuing law enforcement education credit

6. Centralized Investigation and Charging Authority

    1. Centralize investigation and charging authority for officer involved interaction resulting in death or great bodily injury:
      1. SLED to conduct all investigations unless there is a conflict, the Attorney General shall appoint an investigating agency in cases of SLED conflict
      2. SLED reports investigative findings to AG
      3. State charges are presented or declined by the AG within 3 months of completion of the investigation
      4. State Grand Jury has exclusive jurisdiction over criminal charges involving death or GBI as a result of an officer involved interaction
      5. The local solicitor has the ability to request the AG review an officer involved incident (other than death and GBI) in any other circumstance

Watch full video of the press conference by clicking, HERE, and scrolling to the bottom of the page. 

 

We want to hear from you! SHARE your comments and questions using the form below.

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Action Report

Page Updated: 4/20/2020 as of 6:00 p.m.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more serious diseases such as pneumonia, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). COVID-19 was originally thought to have spread from animal to person, but person-to-person spread is now occurring.

Outbreaks of novel virus infections are public health concerns. The risk of COVID-19 infections in South Carolina depends on multiple factors, including the likelihood of travelers from affected areas, how easily the virus may spread from person to person and the effectiveness of measures to prevent community spread.

On March 17, 2020, the South Carolina State Senate unanimously voted to authorize a $45 million supplemental funding package for SCDHEC to combat the COVID-19 outbreak. The package would provide flexibility for SCDHEC to move assets where needed most and provides oversight and reporting of expenditures to the State’s Executive Budget Office. The package was ordered for a third reading on March 18, 2020 and was sent  sent to the State House of Representatives for further consideration. On March 19, 2020, the South Carolina House of Representatives concurred with the Senate’s funding package. Governor McMaster signed the bill into law on the same day permitting DHEC to draw funds from the account. DHEC requests included in the supplemental funding package include the following:

  • Staffing ($14,598,760): DHEC needs additional staffing to support COVID-19 disease surveillance and contact investigation, laboratory testing, and information phone lines.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ($14,806,800): PPE for DHEC’s healthcare workers to prevent spread of infection.
  • Staff Support ($5,282,420): Operating costs such as technology, lab supplies and reagents, travel, and facility cleaning.
  • Education Campaign ($2,500,000): Support for TV/Radio airtime and printed materials.
  • Quarantine ($1,703,580): Cost to quarantine and support indigent patients.
  • Transportation ($1,394,958): Cost to courier lab samples and distribution of items from the Strategic National Stockpile.
  • Contingency ($5,000,000): We have built in about 10% for unanticipated costs or changing assumptions based on disease spread.

RECENT TIMELINE: 

  • APRIL 20, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-28 to safely, strategically, and incrementally reopen businesses classified as retail stores effective Wednesday, April 6 at 5:00 p.m. Examples of retail business re-openings would  include:
    • (a) Furniture and home-furnishings stores (b) Clothing, shoe, and clothing-accessory stores (c) Jewelry, luggage, and leather goods stores (d) Department stores, with the exception of hardware and home-improvement stores (e) Sporting goods stores (f) Book, craft, and music stores (g) Flea markets (h) Florists and flower stores.
    • As a condition of re-opening, the business shall limit the number of customers allowed to enter and simultaneously occupy the premises so as not to exceed five (5) customers per 1,000 square feet of retail space, or twenty percent (20%) of the occupancy limit as determined by the fire marshal, whichever is less. The business shall not knowingly allow customers, patrons, or other guests to congregate within six (6) feet of one another, exclusive of family units. Additionally, the business shall implement all reasonable steps to comply with any applicable sanitation guidelines promulgated by the CDC, DHEC, or any other state or federal public health officials.
    • If a business has a question as to whether it should close in view of the Governor’s Order, the business should complete the Essential Business Clarification form located on the South Carolina Department of Commerce website here. Questions can also be sent to covid19sc@sccommerce.com, or business representatives can call 803-734-2873. A team from South Carolina Department of Commerce will review the business’s request for clarification, and the business will receive a response with their determination, essential or non-essential, within 24 hours. If a business is not explicitly addressed in the governor’s executive order, the business should continue normal operations until a determination is made.
  • APRIL 13, 2020 – SCDHEC announces five additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 87 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 127 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 3,439 in all 46 counties.
  • APRIL 12, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued a third State of Emergency under Executive Order 2020-23 authorizing emergency powers for purpose of combatting the COVID-19 pandemic in the State of South Carolina. 
  • APRIL 12, 2020 – SCDHEC announces two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 82 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 113 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 3,319 in all 46 counties.
  • APRIL 11, 2020 – SCDHEC announces eight additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 80 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 144 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 3,207 in all 46 counties.
  • APRIL 10, 2020 – SCDHEC announces 274 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 3,065 in all 46 counties.
  • APRIL 6, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued a “Home or Work Order,” Executive Order 2020-21. The Order mandates that all residents and visitors of South Carolina limit social interaction, practice social distancing and limit movements outside of their home or place of work.
  • APRIL 3, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-18 to temporarily close additional businesses classified as retail stores in addition to the three categories previously closed under Executive Order 2020-17: entertainment, athletic facilities, and close contact providers. The closure will be effective Wednesday, April 6 at 5:00 p.m. Examples of retail business closures include:
    • (a) Furniture and home-furnishings stores (b) Clothing, shoe, and clothing-accessory stores (c) Jewelry, luggage, and leather goods stores (d) Department stores, with the exception of hardware and home-improvement stores (e) Sporting goods stores (f) Book, craft, and music stores (g) Flea markets (h) Florists and flower stores.
    • If a business has a question as to whether it should close in view of the Governor’s Order, the business should complete the Essential Business Clarification form located on the South Carolina Department of Commerce website here. Questions can also be sent to covid19sc@sccommerce.com, or business representatives can call 803-734-2873. A team from South Carolina Department of Commerce will review the business’s request for clarification, and the business will receive a response with their determination, essential or non-essential, within 24 hours. If a business is not explicitly addressed in the governor’s executive order, the business should continue normal operations until a determination is made.
  • APRIL 3, 2020 – SCDHEC announces three additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 34 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 147 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 1,700 in all 46 counties.
  • APRIL 2, 2020 – SCDHEC announces 261 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 1,554 in all 46 counties.
  • MARCH 31, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-17 to temporarily close businesses in South Carolina in three categories: entertainment, athletic facilities, and close contact providers. The closure will be effective Wednesday, April 1 at 5:00 p.m. Examples of businesses closures include:
    • Entertainment — bowling alleys, night clubs, arcades, concert halls, theaters, auditoriums, performing arts centers, tourist attractions including museums, racetracks, indoor children play areas (not daycares), adult entertainment venues, bingo halls, venues operated by social clubs.
    • Athletic facilities and activities – fitness centers and gyms, spas and public pools, spectator sports, events that require shared sporting equipment, public playground equipment
    • Close contact service providers – barber shops, hair salons, waxing salons, nail salons, spas, body art facilities, tattoo parlors, tanning salons, massage therapy
    • If a business has a question as to whether it should close in view of the Governor’s Order, the business should complete the Essential Business Clarification form located on the South Carolina Department of Commerce website here. Questions can also be sent to covid19sc@sccommerce.com, or business representatives can call 803-734-2873. A team from South Carolina Department of Commerce will review the business’s request for clarification, and the business will receive a response with their determination, essential or non-essential, within 24 hours. If a business is not explicitly addressed in the governor’s executive order, the business should continue normal operations until a determination is made.
  • MARCH 31, 2020 – SCDHEC announces 158 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 1083 in 42 counties
  • MARCH 30, 2020 – SCDHEC announces two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 18 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 151 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 925 in 41 counties
  • MARCH 29, 2020 – SCDHEC announces an additional death related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 16 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 113 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 774 in 40 counties
  • MARCH 28, 2020 – SCDHEC announces two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 15 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 121 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 660 in 40 counties
  • MARCH 27, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-14 to require individuals entering South Carolina from High-Risk areas – consisting of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and the City of New Orleans, Louisiana – to self-quarantine for a period of fourteen (14) days. This order is mandatory and is enforceable by a law enforcement officer with potential penalty of misdemeanor, fine of not more than one hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than thirty days, pursuant to 16-7-10(A) of the South Carolina Code of Laws. 
  • MARCH 27, 2020 – SCDHEC announces four additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 13 deaths. Additionally, SCDHEC announces 86 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state total to 539 in 39 counties
  • MARCH 25, 2020 – Eighty-Two (82) additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 424 cases statewide in 39 counties.  
  • MARCH 24, 2020 – SCDHEC announces two additional deaths related to COVID-19, bringing the state total to 7 deaths.
  • MARCH 24, 2020 – Forty-Four (44) additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 342 cases statewide in 36 counties.  
  • MARCH 23, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2020-13 to direct law enforcement or a political subdivision to prohibit public gatherings, unless privately in their homes, of three or more if, in their discretion, the gathering poses a threat to public health. This does not apply to employee or employer environments.
  • MARCH 23, 2020 – One hundred three (103) additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 298 cases statewide in 34 counties.  
  • MARCH 23, 2020 – U.S. Department of Education approves Spring 2020 assessment and accountability requested by the SC Department of Education. The waiver permits South Carolina to not administer any of the following assessment programs for the Spring 2020 semester:
    • SC READY (English language arts and mathematics in grades 3–8); 
    • SCPASS (science in grades 4 and 6);
    • End-of-Course Examination Program (English, Algebra, Biology, United States History and the Constitution) the requirement that these examinations count 20 percent has been waived;
    • Prekindergarten assessments – 4-year-old kindergarten (Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening (PALS Pre-K™), Individual Growth and Development Indicators (myIGDIs™), and Teaching Strategies® GOLD); and
    • Alternate Assessments – some students have already taken the alternate assessments. Districts will receive information for returning those materials.
    • Additional requirements remain in place. For full details included in the waiver, view the SDE release. 
  • MARCH 23, 2020 – The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control announced the state’s fourth and fifth deaths related to COVID-19. This brings the state’s total number of deaths to five.
  • MARCH 22, 2020 – Twenty-Two (22) additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 195 cases statewide in 33 counties.
  • MARCH 22, 2020 – Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order No. 2020-12 to suspend regulations to permit the curbside delivery or pickup of beer and wine. Alcoholic liquors, as defined in the Code, are prohibited from pickup or delivery. 
  • MARCH 21, 2020 – Forty-Six (46) additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 173 cases statewide in 30 counties.
  • MARCH 21, 2020 – South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control receives first shipment of medical equipment from the Strategic National Stockpile. SCDHEC received 55 pallets in the initial shipment containing N-95 masks, face shields, surgical masks, gowns and gloves. Additional shipments may continue in the coming weeks.
  • MARCH 20, 2020 – Forty-Five (45) additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 125 cases statewide in 25 counties.
  • MARCH 20, 2020 – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved Governor Henry McMaster’s request for the agency to offer South Carolina’s small businesses with disaster assistance. The approval means South Carolina’s small businesses that have suffered substantial economic injury, as a result of the COVID-19 virus, may qualify for low-interest federal disaster loans. All 46 counties are included in the disaster declaration. South Carolina’s businesses can apply online at: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
  • MARCH 19, 2020 — Governor McMaster issues Executive Order 2020-11 to direct all non-essential employees and staff of the State of South Carolina – and employees of college, universities, and technical colleges – to not report to work until further notice, at the direction of the Agency Head or direct supervisor; to prohibit any county, municipality, or political subdivision of the State from closing any location or facility that may be necessary to perform mission-critical functions; to suspend requirement of unemployment payment by employers until June 1; to authorize DHEC to suspend regulations requiring Certificate of Need Review to permit healthcare facilities to make capital expenditures and acquire medical equipment to combat COVID-19.  
  • MARCH 19, 2020 — Twenty-One (21) additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 81 cases statewide in 17 counties.
  • MARCH 18, 2020 — Thirteen additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 60 cases statewide in 14 counties.
  • MARCH 17, 2020 — Fourteen additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina. This brings the total number, at this time, to 47 cases statewide in 13 counties.
  • MARCH 17, 2020 — South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) announces extension to file state returns and pay taxes due April 1, 2020, now due by June 1,2020. Penalty and interest will not be charged if payment is made by June 1. Online services are available by visiting MyDORWAY.dor.sc.gov.
  • MARCH 17, 2020 — Governor McMaster issues Executive Order 2020-10 to direct the DHEC to waive or suspend provisions of existing regulations that may prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with an emergency; to order that food-service establishments and bars may not permit on-premises dining or consumption, but to encourage delivery, carry-out or drive-through distribution for alternative means; the prohibition of any organized event or public gathering held at a location owned by South Carolina or a political subdivision if it would require convening fifty or more persons in a single area; to direct the Adjutant General to oversee efforts and utilize equipment for hospitals or other healthcare providers.
  • MARCH 16, 2020 — SCDHEC releases updated guidance on patient testing and travel of cruise ships.
  • MARCH 16, 2020 — Five additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina.
  • MARCH 16, 2020 — SCDHEC announces South Carolina’s first COVID-19 related death.
  • MARCH 15, 2020 — Governor McMaster issues Executive Order 2020-09 to direct the closure of all public schools in South Carolina for students and non-essential employees from March 16, 2020 to March 31, 2020 unless otherwise directed by executive order. The order additionally directs elections held on or before May 1, 2020 to be postponed; and to urge indoor or outdoor public gatherings be limited to less than one-hundred (100) people.
  • MARCH 15, 2020 — Nine additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina.
  • MARCH 14, 2020 — Six additional cases of COVID-19 announced in South Carolina.
  • MARCH 13, 2020 — SCDHEC provides updated guidance on testing and reporting for COVID-19 in South Carolina.
  • MARCH 13, 2020 — Governor McMaster issues Executive Order 2020-08 declaring State of Emergency for South Carolina due to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The order DHEC be vested with powers set forth in the Emergency Health Powers Act; the closure of public schools located in Kershaw and Lancaster Counties; suspension of visitations to state corrections institutions and local detention facilities; activation of the South Carolina National Guard; limited licensing to security companies in protecting property; and prohibition of price gouging.
  • MARCH 11, 2020 — Governor McMaster issues Executive Order 2020-07 to suspend certain rules and regulations for commercial vehicles and operators responding directly to assist in COVID-19 efforts.
  • MARCH 6, 2020 — State of South Carolina’s first two cases of COVID-19 announced in media briefing; one patient is elderly female from Kershaw County who has been hospitalized and in isolation; the second patient is an adult female from Charleston County who recently traveled to France and Italy. The patient did not require hospitalization and is self-isolated at home.
  • MARCH 2, 2020 — Governor Henry McMaster convenes Public Health Emergency Plan Committee to discuss potential impact of COVID-19 to South Carolina.
  • FEBRUARY 28, 2020 — SCDHEC issues interim guidance on the outbreak of COVID-19.
  • JANUARY 31, 2020 — Governor McMaster convened a meeting of the Public Health Emergency Plan Committee to discuss update on COVID-19.

QUICK INFORMATION:

  • How it is spread:
    • COVID-19 is commonly spread through air by coughing and sneezing; close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands; or touching an object with the virus and making contact with mouth, nose, or eyes.
  • Symptoms of COVID-19:
    • Symptoms of COVID-19 can be mild to severe illness, fever, coughing or shortness of breath.
  • Travelers:
    • Those who have traveled from an affected area in the past two weeks should seek medical advice if any symptoms develop during that period. Health officials are prepared with instructions on how to prevent the spread and proper procedures to avoid the spread.
  • COVID-19 Prevention:
    • Health officials recommend constant washing of hands with warm water and soap for more than twenty seconds; avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth; avoid contact with sick individuals; stay home when not feeling well; and practicing social-distancing of keeping distance from others, greater than six feet.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
  • Get Screened:
    • Individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath should contact their personal doctor or healthcare provider. MUSC Health is providing a free telehealth screening to all South Carolinians experiencing symptoms without leaving their home using this link: https://campaigns.muschealth.org/virtual-care/index.html.
  • More Information:
    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and South Carolina Department of Environmental Control have additional helpful information online at cdc.gov/covid19 and schec.gov/covid19.
    • The SCDHEC Care Line is available to provide general information from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week by calling 855-472-3432.
    • The SCEMD, in collaboration with SCDHEC, has created an online portal to monitor testing and confirmed cases of COVID-19 in South Carolina. You can view this portal HERE.

EMPLOYMENT & WORKFORCE INFORMATION:

  • Unemployment Benefits:
    • Unemployment benefits are available to individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own. If an employer must shut down operations and no work is available, individuals may be eligible for unemployment benefits.
  • Layoff Insurance Benefits:
    • Unemployment benefits are available to any individual who is unemployed through no fault of their own. If an employer must lay off employees due to the loss of production caused by the coronavirus, individuals may be eligible for unemployment benefits. This also applies to those employees’ whose hours may be reduced due to no fault of their own.
  • Paid Leave:
    • Employees receiving paid leave would not be considered unemployed and therefore ineligible to receive unemployment benefits.
  • COVID-19 Related Shutdown:
    • South Carolina law allows for the removal of charges from contributory employers when unemployment benefits are paid as a result of a natural disaster, either declared by the President of the United States or the declaration of emergency by the Governor. 
  • Unemployment Insurance Claims (Employees):
    • To submit an initial claim for unemployment insurance claims, individuals must follow three steps: (1) Apply for benefits through SCDEW, (2) Register for work, and (3) Search for work.
    • Individuals may submit an initial claim through MyBenefitsPortal (https://dew.sc.gov/individuals/manage-your-benefits/weekly-claims), once the application is submitted, DEW will review the claim and determine if you qualify.
    • Through the portal, individuals must register for work on SC Works Online Services within two weeks to avoid nonpayment. Additionally, individuals must update their resume every 90 days to continue payment.
    • To remain eligible, individuals must actively search for work each week and conduct at least two (2) job searches each week. Individuals may request a waiver for the requirement to perform two searches if for good cause.
  • Filing Claims for Workers (Employers):
    • Employers experiencing a temporary shutdown, slow or smaller workload than normal may request permission to file claims on their workers’ behalf. Employers are able to file up to six weeks for affected employees who are exempt from work searches during that time.
    • To file, employers must contact DEW’s Unemployment Insurance department at 866-831-1725 and sign an agreement letter to become authorized to file employees’ claims.
    • Employers are required to report earnings that the employee may have received during the particular week filed. The claim must be submitted after the week of layoff is over but within 14 days of the claim week ending date.
    • Additionally information is available online at: https://dew.sc.gov/employers/ui-benefits/filing-claims-for-your-workers. 
  • Economic Injury Disaster Loans:
    • The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans, through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the COVID-19. This program is designed to help the business community address financing and cash flow issues, which may exceed the underwriting requirements for local financial institutions. On March 17, Governor McMaster submitted the required request for assistance to the Small Business Administration (SBA) to make loans available in the form of SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans for eligible small businesses located in all 46 counties of the state. After approval of our state-certification by the SBA, the South Carolina Department of Commerce and South Carolina Emergency Management Division websites will have explicit instructions on how to fill out the SBA loan application. Please note this is a loan—not a grant—and will still carry underwriting requirements. If a small business is interested in obtaining an SBA loan, please contact Chuck Bundy at the South Carolina Department of Commerce at cbundy@sccommerce.com or 803-737-0440.
  • Small Business Disaster Assistance:
    • The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced it will offer South Carolina’s small businesses with disaster assistance. The approval means South Carolina’s small businesses that have suffered substantial economic injury, as a result of the COVID-19 virus, may qualify for low-interest federal disaster loans. All 46 counties are included in the disaster declaration. South Carolina’s businesses can apply online at: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
  • Federal Assistance for Small Business:
    • On March 27, President Trump signed into law H.R. 748, the CARES Act. Part of the Act included a Paycheck Protection Program to authorize up to $349 billion toward job retention and other expenses for small businesses. Nonprofit organizations, Veterans organizations, Tribal business, self-employed and independent contractors are among those eligible for the assistance. Businesses may apply online by visiting: https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/top-priorities/cares-act/assistance-for-small-businesses.

INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES:

  • S.C. Public School Closures:
    •  The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) has announced the closure of all South Carolina public schools through April 30, 2020. The SCDE is working closely with SCDHEC, district, parents and students to provide essential services during the COVID-19 outbreak. More information is available on the SCDE Website, including school food sites, WiFi Hot Spots in S.C., and related information.
    • The Medical Board can expedite temporary licensure for out-of-state physicians, physician assistants, and respiratory care practitioners within 24 hours. There is no fee for these 90-day temporary licenses. You can apply for licensure by clicking here.
    • For nurses, South Carolina is part of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), which means registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) from these 32 other states who have multi-state licenses can work in South Carolina at any time. All states in the Southeast are part of the Nursing Compact. Additionally, the Board of Nursing can expedite licensure of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), as well as RNs and LPNs from non-compact states. The expedited licensure only requires information from the hospital or other health provider or organization that is requesting the additional nursing staff from another state. The license is good for 15 days, but may be renewed. There is no fee associated with this expedited, temporary license. You can apply for licensure by clicking here.
  • On April 1, 2020, the SC Commission on Higher Education issued guidance to colleges and universities to determine whether a refund or credit to the student’s account for housing, dinning and other fees deemed appropriate by the institution. The guidance includes:
    • Students who remain enrolled for the remainder of the semester are eligible for a refund or credit. The suspension of in-person instruction does not change the student’s enrollment status for billing, financial aid, and/or reporting purposes.
    • Students who remain on campus for the remainder of the semester will not be eligible for refunded or credited services.
    • Refunds or credits should be prorated based on the number of days for which the service will not be provided to the student(s). Individual institutions will calculate the amount to be refunded or credited. Further, whether refund or credit, any remittance should first be applied to any remaining current charges.
    • Refunds or credits for eligible students should be processed by an institution at the earliest possible time based on a schedule determined by the institution.
    • Additional information may be found by visiting the SCCHE Website.
  • Health Insurance:
    • The S.C. Department of Insurance has provided information as to health insurance companies doing business in South Carolina and coverage. To learn more, go here.
  • Scam Alert:
    • South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has warned citizens to be alert to possible disaster-related scams such as fraudulent phone calls or price gouging, and report any suspected scams to the Attorney General’s office using this link: http://www.scag.gov/archives/40426.
  • Veterans and COVID-19:
    • The Veterans Administration has created this website with resources for veterans.
  • Cleaning and Disinfection Recommendations:
    • The CDC issued this guidance on cleaning and disinfecting homes.
  • Children and COVID-19:
  • Pregnant/Breastfeeding and COVID-19:
    • The CDC issued this information for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Local Grocery Stores:
    • Several stores have been out of staples including toilet paper. Stores are stocking as quickly as they can and several stores are hiring more workers to help with stocking and cleaning.
  • State Tax Filing Deadlines:
    • Various tax filing and payment deadlines starting on April 1, 2020 were extended. As a result, affected individuals and businesses will have until June 1, 2020 to file and pay taxes for returns that are due between April 1, 2020 and June 1, 2020. To learn more, go here.
  • Federal Tax Information:
    • The Internal Revenue Service announced payment deadline of April 15, 2020 extended to July 15, 2020. To learn more, go here.

MEDICAL RESOURCES AND SUPPLIES:

  • Procedure for Requesting Resources:
    • Ensure suppliers routinely used cannot meet the request.
    • Utilize any mutual aid agreements that are in place.
    • Request assistance through their local healthcare coalition.
    • Contact County Emergency Management (EM) Division to submit a resource request.  If the County EM cannot fulfill the request, they must submit the request to the SCEMD Supply Unit.  Afterwards, the SCEMD Supply unit will then task to the appropriate ESF (or other sources), or provide vendor information to the requestor.
  • S.C. Emergency Medical Licensing:
    • The South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners and the South Carolina Board of Nursing have procedures in place to temporarily license individuals in times of an emergency. This is an available tool to combat the virus in our state. Here are the specifics:
    • The Medical Board can expedite temporary licensure for out-of-state physicians, physician assistants, and respiratory care practitioners within 24 hours. There is no fee for these 90-day temporary licenses. You can apply for licensure by clicking here.
    • For nurses, South Carolina is part of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), which means registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) from these 32 other states who have multi-state licenses can work in South Carolina at any time. All states in the Southeast are part of the Nursing Compact. Additionally, the Board of Nursing can expedite licensure of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), as well as RNs and LPNs from non-compact states. The expedited licensure only requires information from the hospital or other health provider or organization that is requesting the additional nursing staff from another state. The license is good for 15 days, but may be renewed. There is no fee associated with this expedited, temporary license. You can apply for licensure by clicking here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

SC Senate Republicans Lead The Way On Education Reform

South Carolina Senate Republicans are leading the way in improving education for all children, teachers, administrators and parents in South Carolina! Despite eight weeks of delay from those wishing to preserve the status quo, Senate Republicans were able to pass a comprehensive education reform proposal that addresses many of state’s most critical needs in education.

“The Senate made education reform its top priority this year and has worked diligently for 8 weeks to craft a bill that provides many important improvements to South Carolina’s public schools,” Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey says. “I’m hopeful the House of Representatives to continue this important work of supporting our teachers and improving educational opportunities for our students.”

Chairman of the Senate Education Committee Greg Hembree says, “In my eight years in the Senate, I have never seen this body work harder on any single issue than the work we have done on this education reform effort. Although the Senate has passed S.419, we still have work ahead of us…when we complete our work on this bill, our work will not stop. The hard work of building an education system that gives every student in South Carolina the opportunity for a world-class education never ends, and we will continue that work, every year.

The Senate version of the bill:

  • Sets policy commitment for educations, known as Educator Fundamentals for Professional Excellence, to provide proper workplace expectations, including:
    • Policies to provide faculty by fully respected by school and district officials.
    • Ability for teachers to initiate disciplinary measures of persistently disruptive students.
    • Expectation of a safe, secure, orderly work environment free of dangers, hazards or threats.
    • Guaranteed at least 30-minute unencumbered duty-free lunch period for elementary school teachers free of planning and instruction.
    • Additional compensation for work time required above and beyond stated contract days and responsibilities as teachers.
    • And be free of excessive and burdensome paperwork related to disciplinary actions, district evaluation procedures, and other administrative inquires that prevent the fulfillment of teachers’ primary directive to implement effective instruction for their students.
    • Provide support and assistance to meet performance standards and professional expectations.
  • Eliminates three state-mandated tests: social studies in 5th and 7th grades and science in 8th grade.
  • Expands 4K to every district in the state for students who are in families under 185% of poverty.
  • Doubles the reimbursement amount teachers receive for classroom supplies from $275 to $550.
  • Requires the Department of Education to pay initial certification costs for all new public school teachers.
  • Offers personal finance elective as requirement for economics course.
  • Allows students to retain their eligibility for Palmetto Scholarship for up to two years if attending a technical college.
  • Expands Palmetto and Life Enhancement scholarships, an additional $2500 per year, to college students majoring in education.
  • Mandates School Boards adopt follow code of ethics which must be submitted to the Department of Education and followed.
  • Creates a model training program for local school board members including, but not limited to, the powers duties, and responsibilities of board members; policy development; board relations; district finance; ethics compliance; nepotism; conflicts of interest and community relations.
  • Establishes a framework for turning around failing schools and allows for removal of elected school boards in chronically failing districts.
  • Provides summer reading camps for students after Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grades.
  • Protects student data and information collected, to be held personal and confidential with state and federal privacy laws.
  • Allows district flexibility for mileage reimbursement for teachers.
  • Requires school boards to provide a streamlined template for student-learning objectives (SLO’s) further reducing teacher paperwork.
  • Creates a teachers preparation data dashboard to give an easily accessible source of information for teachers related to professional assistance.
  • Ensures reading coaches do only the job they were employed to do.
  • Adds 5 day scheduling flexibility to do KRA (Kindergarten Readiness Assessment)
  • Reauthorizes the National Board Certification program for teachers.
  • Requires two-thirds vote by the Board of Education to receive schools of innovation approval.
  • Makes structural changes to schools of innovation for consistent statewide compliance with schools of innovation guidelines.
  • Mandates local school districts must ensure completion of semester exams prior to a scheduled December break.
  • Eliminates the Education Oversight Committee.
  • Cements the GPA for lottery scholarships to allow students to remain eligible on the current ten point scale.
  • Permits students to receive additional SCWINS Scholarship if attending a two-year public technical college if the student is majoring in a critical workforce area program defined by SBTCE and is receiving a LTAP scholarship or meets the income eligibility guidelines for free-reduced meals; conditioned upon the student receiving career and guidance counseling and other compliance guidelines.

Governor Henry McMaster issued the following comments following passage of S.419: 

We want to hear from you! SHARE your comments and questions using the form below.

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

Education Reform Bill Set For Priority Status In Senate

Education of Top Importance In 2020 Says Senate Majority Leader

COLUMBIA, SC — The South Carolina Senate today voted to set Senate Bill 419, an education reform package, for special order priority status by a vote of 40 to 4. Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey made the special order motion on the Senate floor on what is the first day of new annual legislative session signifying the Senate’s commitment to make significant improvements to the state’s K-12 education policy.

“Providing a high-quality education to children in South Carolina continues to be at the top of the priority list for members of our Senate Republican Caucus, and we sent a clear message of that commitment today in setting S.419 for priority status in the Senate,” Senator Shane Massey says.

Chairman of the Senate Education Committee, Senator Greg Hembree, echoed the importance prioritizing the reform legislation.

“The Education Committee worked diligently through the fall and winter of 2019 hearing from teachers, parents, administrators, students and the public to craft a quality piece of legislation with lasting impact. There is plenty more to be done, but I am pleased of the work of the committee up to this point and look forward to final passage of key reforms that will improve our education policy for years to come.”

Special Order votes require a 2/3 vote in the affirmative of members voting and present. The motion passed with a vote of 40 in the affirmative and only four members voting against the motion.

###

Sign Up for Email Updates Today!

This Week Under The Dome

 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE : May 20-24, 2019

The Senate returned this week, pursuant to the Sine Die resolution, to take up “conference committee reports.” Conference Committees are composed of three members from each body, Senate and the House, appointed to resolve differences between the respective bodies on an amended bill. The committee reports the recommendations, compromises, or amendments to the full Senate and full House for further action. If both bodies approve of the final changes to the legislation, the conference committee report is adopted and sent to the governor for signature or veto. The following conference committee reports were adopted and now head to the governor’s desk for further action.

Conference Committee Report Adopted

H.3137 –Local Government Fund: A bill to amend the State Aid to Subdivisions Act, the Local Government Fund, to establish a process of distribution of funds. The bill deletes the provision relating to mid-year cuts. The revenues to the local government will be adjusted proportionally to the same projected percentage change, but not to exceed five percent. The base is re-benchmarked at the current level of funding and then grows as the general fund grows.

 H.3601– Public Disorderly Conduct: A bill to allow procedures for conditional discharge for first time offenders relating to public disorderly conduct. The court without entering a judgment of guilty and with the consent of the accused may defer further proceedings and be placed on probation with terms and conditions. A nonpublic record must be forwarded and retained by SLED solely for the purpose of use by the courts in determining whether a person has committed a subsequent offense. Upon dismissal and discharge, the person may apply to the court for an order of expungement A fee of $150 must be paid before a person may be discharged and proceedings dismissed, in which the funds shall be transmitted to the Prosecution Coordination Commission.

H.3602 – Health Care Decisions: A bill relating to the persons who may make health care decisions for a patient who is unable to consent, to add a person who has an established relationship with the patient, acting in good faith and who can reliably convey the patient’s wishes but is not a paid caregiver or provider of health care services to the patient. The person must sign and date a notarized acknowledgement form provided by the hospital or other facility where the patient is located.

 H.3789 – Driver’s Licenses: A bill to expand options to prove veteran’s status, raises validity period for certain types of licenses and ID cards, allows the Department of Motor Vehicles to charge differing amounts for licenses depending on the validity periods. Members of the Armed Services and their dependents DL validity is extended from 4 years to 8 years. Veteran’s status extends to both national guardsmen and members of the reserve components who qualify. Establishes two options for commercial driver’s license: HAZMAT endorsement valid for 5 years upon individual which passes TSA threat assessment or without HAZMAT endorsement valid for 8 years, and additional conforming changes.

H.3821 – Advanced Practice Registered Nurses: A bill to enact the “Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Act” to provide that APRNs may certify the manner and cause of death pursuant to the provisions of the State Code of Laws. APRNs may have prescriptive authority on Schedule II narcotics for patients in long-term care facilities, all other restrictions of law remain the same.

 H.3986 –Palmetto ABLE Savings: A bill to rename the “South Carolina ABLE Savings Program” the “South Carolina Stable Account Program,” and make conforming changes.

 H.4004 – POST Act: A bill to enact the “Physician’s Orders for Scope of Treatment (POST) Act.” The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control must administer, create access and manage improvements to the POST form, develop process to identify patients utilizing POST and other advance directives, develop educational efforts for public and health care professionals and promulgate necessary regulations. The POST form must be a uniform document based on the standards recommended by the National Physical Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) paradigm and must include certain criteria. A POST may be revoked at any time by an oral or written statement by the patient or patient’s legal representative.

 H.4243 –Professional Sports Teams Credits: A bill to define and include ‘professional sports team’ to taxpayers eligible for the new job tax credit. Additionally, increases the amount of initial job credit from eight thousand dollars to twenty-five thousand dollars for Tier IV counties, and from four thousand dollars to twenty thousand dollars for jobs created in Tier III counties. The provisions relating to ‘professional sports team’ shall sunset by July 1, 2022.

H.4000 –State General Appropriations: A bill to enact the general appropriations of the state for Fiscal Year 2019-2020. Highlights of the State Budget may be found online HERE.

H.4001–Capital Reserve Fund: A bill to appropriate monies from the Capital Reserve Fund for FY18-19 and allow unexpended funds appropriated to be carried forward to succeeding fiscal years and expended for the same purposes.

H.4287 – Public Service Authority (Santee Cooper): A joint resolution to provide the Department of Administration shall establish a process to conduct a competitive bidding process for the sale of some or all of the Public Service Authority (“Santee Cooper”) and receive management proposals that do not involve a sale but design to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Santee Cooper’s electric operations. The process shall not be limited to individuals or entities that responded to the ICF Request for Expressions of Interest. Santee Cooper shall also submit a proposal as an alternative to a sale or management proposal, setting plans to reform, restructure and change operation. Nothing precludes the department from negotiation with entities to improve the proposal. The department shall procure professional services necessary; the services must not be an entity with whom the House of Representatives, Senate or Governor has previously engaged relating to Santee Cooper. The department shall designate a third party to administer the procurement and dissemination of information from Santee Cooper to third party bidders in order to ensure consistency, proper characterization and accuracy of information provided. The department shall conduct a thorough evaluation off all bids (Section 2), management proposals (Section 3), reform (Section 4), under strict parameters of evaluation included within. The department shall establish a process in which its professional services experts conduct confidential negotiations between Central Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. and each entity that submitted a bid or proposal after all have been submitted. The department shall require that negotiations operate in good faith, and other like requirements. Information received during the process and ensuing negotiations shall be confidential and handled with sufficient care to prevent disclosure and must not be released without written permission of the entity whose bid or proposal was recommended. The department shall require non-disclosure agreements which must be entered into by each individual or entity involved. At the conclusion, the department shall concurrently present a recommendation by its professional service experts of one bid for sale, one management proposal that consider to be in the best interest of the State, taxpayers and customers of Santee Cooper, as well as the recommendation of Santee Cooper’s proposal. Each must include justifications, contract with full terms, and supporting documents. The proposed contracts must include covenants that the bidder will abide by the terms of its bid for sale or its proposal. The department must enter into a contract with each entity that establishes penalties for failure to proceed with the terms in the event the bid or proposal is selected by the General Assembly. The contract must include, but is not limited to, earnest money to be paid upon a recommendation of that entity is being made to the General Assembly and penalties for failure to finalize the terms of bid or proposal upon selection by the General Assembly. The department shall present to the Chairman of Senate Finance Committee, Chairman of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee the documents by January 15, 2020, and may extend an additional 60 days if needed. The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House shall convene their respective bodies to consider any legislation to effectuate the sale, management proposal, or reform, restructure and changes in operation of Santee Cooper. In the event of an approved sale, the net proceeds shall be deposited in the State Retirement Systems Group Trust. In the event the General Assembly approves a management proposal, the department must execute and documents necessary to effectuate the proposal. If any section, subsection, paragraph, et al. be held unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining portions of the act shall be held if the General Assembly would have approved the remaining portions of the act.  ​

For more questions on the above bills or additional legislation being considered by the Senate, please reach out! WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU. 

###