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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 City of Columbia issues, policies and funding requests.

Legislative News

The 2nd regular session of the 125th South Carolina General Assembly
will convene on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 and adjourn on May 9, 2024.

Contact Information

Government Affairs & Community Relations
1737 Main Street
Columbia, SC 29201
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Whanna Bouknight
Governmental Affairs Administrator
803.545.3044
803.545.3051 fax
[email protected]