In order to govern effectively, county officials must understand key legal issues that impact local government. South Carolina counties act under powers granted to them by the state; thus, the first section of this course is devoted to the legal foundation of county government. Forms of county government, county government authority, powers and duties of council members, and council liability will be covered. In addition to the S.C. Public Records Act, the S.C. Freedom of Information Act and its impact on counties will also be discussed.