Who must receive the articles of incorporation and bylaws filed by a corporation?

The articles of incorporation and bylaws filed by a corporation must be sent to the Secretary of State. This is because the Secretary of State's office is responsible for the official registration and maintenance of corporate documents. When a corporation is formed, it is required by law to submit these documents to outline its structure, purpose, and operating procedures. This filing is crucial for establishing the corporation as a legal entity recognized by the state, which provides it with legal protections and certain rights, such as the ability to sue and be sued.

Other options, while they may have some regulatory roles, do not serve the same function. The Department of Business Regulation typically oversees various business operations but is not directly involved in the initial incorporation process. The local City Council may regulate certain business activities within a city but does not handle the incorporation documents. The Governor's Office may be involved in broader legislative or regulatory matters but does not receive articles of incorporation and bylaws as part of the corporation's registration process.