The Department of Governmental Affairs and Community Relations monitors all state and federal legislation to identify issues that may affect the City of Columbia. The primary functions of Government Affairs are:
- Advising the Mayor, City Council, and City departments on current developments in the South Carolina Legislature and the United States Congress that might affect the City of Columbia.
- Building and maintaining relationships between the City of Columbia and elected/appointed state and federal officials.
- Leading the lobbying efforts in the South Carolina Legislature and the United States Congress on behalf of the City.
- Coordinate city staff technical support for legislative efforts.
- Working with the departments on matters before state and federal agencies.
- Promoting regional cooperation issues impacting local governments throughout the Greater Columbia area.
- Participating in nongovernmental organizations to advance the City of Columbia’s issues, policies, and funding requests.
Legislative News
The South Carolina General Assembly will convene on Tuesday, January 12, 2027. The 2027 session is the first year of the 127th General Assembly, and is expected to adjourn on Thursday, May 13, 2027.
South Carolina has 46 state senators, each serving a four-year term, and two U.S. senators. The South Carolina House of Representatives has 124 members, each serving a two-year term, and seven U.S. House representatives.
Contact Information
Government Affairs
City Hall – 1737 Main Street
Columbia, SC 29201
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
City Hall – 1737 Main Street
Columbia, SC 29201
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.