How many houses are there in the state legislature?
Two (State House and State Senate)
How many legislators are in each house?
46 Senators, 124 Representatives
How long has the state government been blue or red?
State Senate: Republican since 2000; State House: Republican since 1994
When does the legislature sit?
Annual Sessions – The South Carolina Legislative Session begins on the second Tuesday of January of each year, Article III, Section 9 of the South Carolina Constitution. The South Carolina General Assembly adjourns sine die not later than 5:00 pm on the second Thursday in May except as provided by Section 2-1-180 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, 1976.
How long is a term? Are there term limits? If so, what are they?
State Senate- 4 years; State Representatives-2 years
There are no term limits currently, but there is a bill in the Senate to enact them.
How many votes does it take to override the governor’s veto?
To pass a Bill over Governor’s veto requires a two-thirds vote of members present and voting of both bodies acting separately.
What areas do state representatives focus on most?
The South Carolina State legislature decides public policy, establishes state spending levels, manages tax rates, and votes to uphold or override vetoes issued by the Governor.
What are the legislators paid in each house?
Both are paid $10,400/year + per diem
What % of voters elected the representatives in each house?
67.86 % for the state senate in 2016; 55.03 % for the state house in 2018
How can people register to vote in your state?
Go to SCVotes.org ! You can register online, by mail, fax or email. You can also go to the elections office and register in person. (Pro-tip: registration is available at the DMV every time you get a new or renewed license or state ID!)
How can voters find the nearest polling place in your state?
Check your voter registration card or go to SCVotes.org for your polling place
How can voters identify and contact their state representative(s)?
Everything SC State legislature can be found here: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/index.php
You can also find that info on SCVotes.org.
Tell us a fun fact!
A monument is displayed on the grounds where the old State House stood.
The inscription reads:
HERE STOOD THE
STATE HOUSE
BUILT 1786-1790
JAMES HOBAN ARCHITECT
BURNED BY
SHERMAN’S TROOPS
FEBRUARY 17, 1865
Interested in profiling your state legislature? Contact Kelly!
