The South Carolina General Assembly is the legislative body of the state of South Carolina. It is a bicameral institution, meaning it has two chambers: the South Carolina House of Representatives and the South Carolina Senate. Together, these chambers are responsible for creating laws, approving the state budget, and representing the interests of South Carolina residents. The General Assembly meets annually at the South Carolina State House in Columbia. Each chamber has its own leadership, with the House led by the Speaker and the Senate by the President. Members of both chambers are elected by the citizens of South Carolina, serving terms that help shape state policies and governance.