SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, is the regional planner in Southeast Michigan. SEMCOG supports local government planning in the areas of transportation, environment, community and economic development, and education. The essential functions of SEMCOG are to: assists local governments in planning for common needs and in recognizing regional opportunities; facilitate cooperation among local governments, educational institutions, and state and federal agencies for mutual benefit; and, advocate for changes in public policy when state or federal legislative action is necessary.