SCAC Celebrates 50 Years of Home Rule

This summer marks an important milestone in South Carolina government history. Gov. James Edwards signed the Home Rule Act into law on June 25, 1975, which is considered the beginning of modern county government in our state. Previously, counties had little authority and were run primarily by state senators.  

Over the past five decades following the Home Rule Act’s implementation, the Palmetto State’s 46 county governments have advanced to provide their communities with critical services protecting and improving quality of life. 

SCAC, which formed in 1967 to advocate for home rule, is excited to celebrate this anniversary.

Check out our multi-media look at the past, present and future of county government on this page.

Follow @sccounties on Facebook and Instagram and the South Carolina Association of Counties on LinkedIn as we share various leaders’ reflections on the lasting impact home rule has made on South Carolina.