Gov. Mark Sanford's budget proposal calls for $13 million generated from selling the state-owned utility's surplus property to be used for a variety of state programs, including the marketing and promotions for the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department.

"It's a horrible precedent," said Sen. Luke Rankin, D-Myrtle Beach.

Santee Cooper shouldn't become a cash cow for funding state operations. If the utility sells property, the money generated should be used to reduce debt or rates for customers, Rankin said.