South Carolina General Assembly

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== South Carolina General Assembly ==

The South Carolina General Assembly is the bicameral legislature of the U.S. state of South Carolina. It consists of two separate chambers: the South Carolina Senate and the South Carolina House of Representatives. The General Assembly convenes at the South Carolina State House in Columbia.

History

The South Carolina General Assembly was established in 1776, following the adoption of the state's first constitution. It has undergone several changes in structure and function over the years, particularly during the Reconstruction era and the Civil Rights Movement.

Structure

South Carolina Senate

The South Carolina Senate is the upper chamber of the General Assembly. It consists of 46 members, each representing a single-member district. Senators serve four-year terms, with elections held every two years for staggered terms.

South Carolina House of Representatives

The South Carolina House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the General Assembly. It is composed of 124 members, each representing a single-member district. Representatives serve two-year terms, with elections held every two years.

Functions

The General Assembly is responsible for enacting laws, approving the state budget, and overseeing the executive branch of the state government. It also has the power to propose amendments to the South Carolina Constitution.

Legislative Process

The legislative process in the General Assembly involves several steps:

1. Introduction of a bill
2. Committee review and hearings
3. Debate and voting in both chambers
4. Reconciliation of differences between the Senate and House versions
5. Approval by the Governor of South Carolina

Committees

Both the Senate and the House have various standing committees that focus on specific areas such as education, healthcare, transportation, and judiciary matters. These committees play a crucial role in the legislative process by reviewing and amending proposed legislation.

Leadership

The leadership of the General Assembly includes the President of the South Carolina Senate and the Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives. These leaders are elected by their respective chambers and are responsible for guiding the legislative agenda and maintaining order during sessions.

Sessions

The General Assembly meets annually, with the regular session beginning on the second Tuesday in January and lasting until the first Thursday in June. Special sessions may be called by the Governor or by a two-thirds vote of both chambers.

Related Pages

• South Carolina Senate
• South Carolina House of Representatives
• South Carolina State House
• Governor of South Carolina
• South Carolina Constitution
• Reconstruction era
• Civil Rights Movement

See Also

• List of South Carolina state legislatures
• Politics of South Carolina
• Government of South Carolina

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