South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem signed the 'Landowner Bill of Rights' into law, a legislative package aimed at protecting landowners while facilitating economic development projects. The laws provide financial compensation and protections for landowners, tax benefits to counties, and maintain local input with the state Public Utilities Commission having final permit approval authority. The legislation has received support from various agricultural groups, including the South Dakota Farm Bureau, Corn Growers Association, and Soybean Association, who praised the bills for delivering landowner protections and property tax relief. The Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline project is expected to move forward, creating demand for corn and supporting ethanol production. The laws set a new standard for other states to follow, ensuring a balance between economic growth and landowner rights.

South Dakota's Republican-controlled Legislature approved a bill to create a video clarifying the state's abortion laws, aiming to provide guidance to healthcare providers and the public. The video, to be produced by the Department of Health in consultation with legal and medical experts, seeks to clarify when healthcare providers can legally intervene to save a mother's life. The bill, supported by Sanford Health and various right-to-life groups, faces criticism from the American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota for not addressing the vagueness of existing statutes. The initiative, with a budget of $50,000, is intended to combat misinformation and will be accessible online.

The South Dakota Supreme Court issued an advisory opinion on February 9, 2024, clarifying the scope of Article III, Section 12, regarding conflicts of interest for state government employees and legislators. Attorney General Marty Jackley appreciated the Court's guidance for future enforcement of conflict of interest laws. The opinion was in response to Governor Kristi Noem's request for clarity on constitutional restrictions for legislators contracting with the state, which included nine specific questions. The advisory opinion will assist various state authorities, including the Governor, Legislature, Auditor, and Attorney General. The Supreme Court had previously heard oral arguments on January 8, 2024, and the Governor's request was supported by key legislative figures.

South Dakota's Senate State Affairs Committee passed a resolution to allow voters to decide on a work requirement for Medicaid expansion. Proponents, led by Republican Rep. Tony Venhuizen, argue that the measure would provide flexibility for future federal and state approval. Opponents, including AARP South Dakota, contend that voters were adequately informed in 2022 and that work requirements are ineffective and bureaucratic. The resolution now moves to the Senate floor and could appear on the 2024 ballot if approved by the legislature.

A bill to make a temporary sales tax cut permanent in South Dakota faced a setback when Senate budget writers tabled the measure. Despite this, the issue remains alive as the Republican-led House had passed the bill with a significant majority. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Chris Karr, and Gov. Kristi Noem support the permanent tax cut, citing a healthy state economy. Senate Majority Leader Casey Crabtree and other conservative members express caution, preferring to keep the temporary cut. The House remains supportive of the permanent cut, with discussions ongoing about the state's financial obligations and potential future legislation.

A South Dakota Senate committee has passed SB39, a bill that prevents homeowner associations from banning firearms and ammunition, with an 8 to 1 vote. The bill, sponsored by Republican Sen. Michael Rohl, will be amended to include plats from banning firearms. Senate Majority Leader Lee Schoenbeck plans to offer this amendment. Democratic Senate Minority Leader Reynold Nesiba, who cast the sole 'no' vote, raised concerns about balancing property rights with the right to bear arms. The bill now advances to the full Senate.

A South Dakota House committee tabled a bill that would have mandated all 11th graders in the state to take the ACT, a college entrance test. The bill's sponsor, Republican Rep. Tony Venhuizen, requested the tabling after Secretary of Education Joseph Graves announced the department's plan to switch from the Smarter Balanced Assessment Test to the ACT in the 2025-2026 school year. Graves noted that while the ACT is more relevant to students, statewide scores may decline as a result. Lobbyist Debbie Pease opposed the bill, citing concerns over parental rights. The committee unanimously voted to table the bill.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley addressed the Senate Judiciary Committee, stating that the state can only slow the influx of drugs, specifically methamphetamine and fentanyl, which are entering from the border. He highlighted the seizure of enough fentanyl to lethally overdose the state's population multiple times. Jackley also raised concerns about child pornographers using AI to create 'deep fakes' from children's photos and videos on social media, calling for updates to child pornography laws. Despite these issues, he affirmed that South Dakota is relatively safe, though improvements can be made.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley addressed the Senate Judiciary Committee, stating that the state can only slow the influx of drugs such as methamphetamine and fentanyl, which are entering from the border. He highlighted the seizure of enough fentanyl to lethally overdose the state's population multiple times. Jackley also raised concerns about child pornographers using artificial intelligence to create 'deep fakes' from children's photos and videos on social media, indicating a need to revise child pornography laws.

South Dakota's House Judiciary Committee passed HB 1024, requiring medical marijuana dispensaries to inform users that they cannot legally purchase or own firearms under federal law. A companion bill, HB 1036, mandates dispensaries to post notices about this federal restriction, with penalties for non-compliance. Both bills, sponsored by Republican Rep. Kevin Jensen, now move to the House of Representatives. Opposition from the Cannabis Industry Association highlights ongoing federal court considerations regarding the constitutionality of federal restrictions on medical marijuana.

The South Dakota House Taxation Committee has passed HB 1001 with an 11 to 1 vote, a bill introduced by Republican Rep. Chris Karr to make a 0.3% state sales tax reduction permanent by removing its sunset provision. The tax was previously reduced from 4.5% to 4.2%. Karr cited economic growth and a smaller than predicted revenue decrease as reasons for permanency. The Noem Administration supports the bill, while the South Dakota Retailers Association, represented by Nathan Sanderson, opposes it, citing federal funds and inflation concerns. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

South Dakota's population trends show mixed results, with growth in certain counties like Minnehaha and Lincoln, while the state faces declining birth and fertility rates. State demographer Weiwei Zhang presented these findings to the South Dakota Legislature, highlighting that the state's population replacement rate is higher than the national average. Despite a decrease in life expectancy due to the COVID-19 pandemic, South Dakota maintains a leading fertility rate. In-migration from neighboring states and foreign-born residents from Asia and Africa contribute to the population dynamics. Zhang anticipates a future decline in school-aged children following a period of increased K-12 enrollments.

State demographer and South Dakota State University Professor Weiwei Zhang presented population trends to the South Dakota Legislature’s House State Affairs Committee, highlighting growth in counties like Minnehaha, Lincoln, and Meade, and cities such as Sioux Falls and Rapid City. However, South Dakota's birth and fertility rates are down, while the mortality rate is up. The state maintains a population replacement rate higher than the national average, but life expectancy has decreased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In-migration data shows most new residents come from neighboring states and Asia and Africa, with a decline in European migration. Zhang anticipates a future decrease in school-aged children despite a previous rise in K-12 enrollments.

South Dakota's judicial system has effectively utilized specialty courts to divert at-risk individuals from prison, as highlighted by Supreme Court Justice Steven R. Jensen in his State of the Judiciary Address. Jensen emphasized the success of drug, DUI, veterans, and mental health courts in helping offenders lead productive lives. He proposed reducing counties' financial burden for indigent defense by having the state cover certain legal costs, potentially saving $600,000. Jensen also raised concerns about increasing threats against judges and court personnel and suggested allowing law students to practice without passing the bar exam to address attorney shortages in underserved areas. Additionally, he called for more judicial resources in the Second Judicial Circuit due to rising caseloads.

South Dakota's judicial system has effectively utilized specialty courts to redirect at-risk individuals from prison to productive lives, as highlighted by Supreme Court Justice Steven R. Jensen in his State of the Judiciary Address. Jensen emphasized the success of drug, DUI, veterans, and mental health courts and proposed state funding to alleviate counties' financial burden for indigent defense. He also raised concerns about increasing threats against judges and court personnel and proposed allowing law students to practice without passing the bar exam to address attorney shortages. Additionally, Jensen supported a budget proposal for additional judicial resources in the Second Judicial Circuit.

South Dakota's population has been growing over the past three to four decades, with significant urban migration and uneven growth across counties. The state has a slightly higher growth rate than its southern neighbors and similar to its northern ones. Sioux Falls and Rapid City show unequal growth, with Sioux Falls growing faster. The state has seen a decline in birth rates and an increase in mortality rates, particularly due to COVID-19. Life expectancy has decreased, especially among Native Americans. Migration trends show an influx of younger, more educated state-to-state movers and an increase in the foreign-born population. Future projections indicate slower population growth and an aging population.

South Dakota's population has been growing over the past three to four decades, with uneven growth across the state. The latest census data shows a population of over 900,000, with significant rural-to-urban migration. Sioux Falls and Rapid City have experienced unequal growth, with Sioux Falls growing faster. The state has seen a decline in birth rates and an increase in mortality rates, particularly due to COVID-19. Migration trends show an influx of younger, more educated state-to-state movers and an increase in the foreign-born population. Demographic shifts indicate a future with a slower growth rate and an aging population, with significant implications for the state's future.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem delivered an optimistic State of the State Address, highlighting the state's success under conservative principles. She credited her 'Freedom Works Here' campaign for attracting non-residents to work in South Dakota and introduced new policy initiatives while recognizing individuals benefiting from her previous policies. Noem plans to reattempt blocking foreign nations from purchasing farmland and emphasized programs supporting mothers and children. The address did not mention state tax reforms. The South Dakota legislature's 38-day session has begun, with key addresses scheduled for the following day.

State legislators in South Dakota convene for their final legislative day to address four bills vetoed by Governor Kristi Noem. The session follows Noem's approval of the state budget and a sales tax reduction, despite her campaign promise to eliminate the food sales tax. The vetoed bills include provisions for alcohol education, penalties for assaulting school employees, amendments to the Uniform Commercial Code, and revisions to industrial hemp regulations. Overriding the vetoes requires a two-thirds majority in both legislative chambers.

Republican Senators Julie Frye-Mueller and Tom Pischke made another unsuccessful attempt to investigate Senate President Pro Tem Lee Schoenbeck for his comments about Frye-Mueller. The motion was quickly dismissed by Senate President Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden. This marks at least the third attempt this week by the duo to form a select committee for the investigation. During a recess for caucusing about a state sales tax bill, Frye-Mueller and Pischke were notably absent from the Republican caucus, with Frye-Mueller later seen sitting alone in the Senate chamber.

The South Dakota House passed House Bill 1137, reducing the state sales and use tax from 4.5% to 4.2%, marking the largest tax cut in the state's history. The bill, which passed with a 66 to 3 vote, is expected to save South Dakotans an average of $116 per person and result in a $104 million tax cut. Supporters argue that the state's strong economy and prudent budgeting will cover ongoing obligations, while opponents caution against passing tax cut legislation before finalizing the overall budget. The bill now moves to a Senate committee for further consideration.

The South Dakota House has passed House Bill 1137, which proposes reducing the state sales and use tax from 4.5% to 4.2%, marking the largest tax cut in the state's history. The bill, which passed with a 66 to 3 vote, is expected to save South Dakotans an average of $116 per person and result in a $104 million tax cut. Supporters argue that the state's strong economy and prudent budgeting will cover ongoing obligations, while opponents caution against passing tax cut legislation before finalizing appropriation bills and clarifying the overall budget. The bill now moves to a Senate committee for further consideration.

The South Dakota House passed House Bill 1137, the largest tax cut in the state's history, reducing the state sales and use tax from 4.5 percent to 4.2 percent. The bill, which passed with a 66 to 3 vote, is expected to result in a $104 million tax cut and save South Dakotans an average of $116 per person in sales tax. Supporters argue that the state's strong economy and prudent budgeting will cover ongoing obligations, while opponents caution against passing tax cut legislation before finalizing appropriation bills and the overall budget. The bill now moves to a Senate committee for further consideration.

The South Dakota Legislature decided not to advance a constitutional amendment for electronic sports betting, with the House voting 28 to 41 against it. Proponents argued it would capture lost revenue and legitimize sports betting, while opponents cited high gambling addiction rates and moral concerns. The bill's defeat means only Deadwood casinos could have offered electronic sports wagering, with proceeds earmarked for historic preservation in Deadwood.

The South Dakota Legislature has decided not to advance a constitutional amendment for electronic sports gambling, with the House rejecting HJR 5006. Proponents argued that legitimizing sports betting could bring revenue to the state and reduce money lost to Iowa and illegal bookies. Opponents raised concerns about gambling addiction rates. The resolution would have allowed only Deadwood casinos to offer electronic sports wagering, with proceeds going to historic preservation in Deadwood.

Legislators in South Dakota rejected a bill to lower the mandatory school attendance age from 18 to 16. The bill, sponsored by Republican Sen. Lee Schoenbeck, aimed to address disruptions caused by juvenile offenders in public schools. Opponents, including educational groups and a student from Watertown Arrow Success Academy, argued that staying in school until 18 can be life-changing. The Senate Education Committee voted 5 to 1 to effectively kill the bill, with discussions focusing on juvenile justice reforms and alternative education pathways.

The South Dakota state Senate passed a bill prohibiting legislators' spouses from lobbying, with a vote of 22 to 13. The bill, sponsored by Republican Sen. Michael Rohl, aims to close a loophole where a legislator's spouse could influence legislation for personal benefit. The bill has faced criticism from Republican Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller, who claims it targets her and her husband, Mike Mueller, an unpaid lobbyist. The bill now moves to a House committee for further consideration.

Censured Republican Senator Julie Frye-Mueller from Rapid City is expected to remain without committee assignments this legislative session following a harassment complaint. Despite being reinstated after a suspension, she was censured and her access to legislative staff was limited. Republican Senate President Pro Tem Lee Schoenbeck stated that the committees are functioning well without her, and there is no need to change the current arrangement. Frye-Mueller retains the ability to vote on the floor and introduce bills.

The South Dakota House passed HB 1172, which mandates that medical marijuana consultations occur in medical facilities to prevent 'pop-up clinics' in non-medical locations. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Fred Deutsch, the bill aims to protect patients and ensure consultations happen in appropriate settings. The bill, which passed 47 to 21, will now move to a Senate committee for further consideration. Amendments are expected to address provisions for home-bound or hospice patients.

The South Dakota House passed HB 1172, which requires medical marijuana certifications to occur in medical facilities, aiming to halt 'pop-up clinics' in non-medical settings. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Fred Deutsch, emphasized the need for patient protection, noting that voters did not endorse 'pop-up clinics' in various informal locations. The bill, which passed 47 to 21, will move to a Senate committee for consideration, with an anticipated amendment to address access for home-bound patients or those in hospice.

Censured Republican Senator Julie Frye-Mueller from Rapid City is expected to remain without committee assignments for the current legislative session following a harassment complaint. Despite being reinstated after a suspension, she has been censured and her access to legislative staff limited. Republican Senate President Pro Tem Lee Schoenbeck stated that the committees are functioning well without her, and there is no need to change the current arrangement. Frye-Mueller retains the ability to vote on the floor and introduce bills.

The South Dakota House passed HB 1172, a bill aimed at restricting medical cannabis consultations to medical facilities, effectively banning 'pop-up clinics' in non-medical locations like hotels and bars. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Fred Deutsch, the bill seeks to ensure patient safety by mandating that dispensaries conduct consultations in established medical settings. The bill, which passed with a 47 to 21 vote, will now move to a Senate committee, where amendments may be introduced to address the needs of home-bound patients.

A bill passed by a South Dakota House committee requires legal entities owning agricultural land to disclose any foreign interest in their corporate filings. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Will Mortenson, the bill aims to gather information on foreign ownership without outlawing it. Supported by Gov. Kristi Noem's general counsel and various agricultural groups, the bill passed the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee unanimously and now moves to the House for further action.

A resolution supporting access to birth control was defeated by the South Dakota House State Affairs Committee with a 7 to 4 vote. The resolution, HCR 6005, was influenced by concerns following the Dobbs Supreme Court decision, which left abortion laws to the states and raised uncertainties about birth control access. Supporters cited broad bipartisan support for birth control access, while opponents argued for a focus on protecting families over individuals. The committee's decision effectively killed the resolution.

Republican Representative Taylor Rehfeldt, who has experienced pregnancy complications and a miscarriage, withdrew her bill, HB 1169, which sought to clarify when an abortion is allowed for the life or health of the mother in South Dakota. The bill aimed to restore language that had been in place for over 30 years, following the U.S. Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. Despite emotional testimony, the committee unanimously agreed to table the bill, with Rehfeldt planning to return next session with a revised proposal.

A South Dakota Senate committee voted 8 to 1 against a bill that would have required Amazon to disclose performance metrics to its workers and keep the data for three years. Democratic Sen. Reynold Nesiba, the bill's sponsor, argued it was necessary for fair treatment of Amazon warehouse employees, especially with a new warehouse opening in Sioux Falls. Republican Sen. Casey Crabtree countered that the bill would affect small businesses beyond Amazon. Sen. Nesiba plans to reintroduce the bill next year, hoping for more data from the operational Sioux Falls Amazon plant.

South Dakota lawmakers have passed two bills in the House Health and Human Services Committee that impose stricter regulations on medical marijuana. HB 1172 mandates a medical assessment in a licensed healthcare facility for obtaining a medical cannabis card, while HB 1129 requires doctors to certify the patient's medical history and indicate any contraindications. Both bills, sponsored by Republican Rep. Fred Deutsch, aim to regulate 'pop-up' clinics. Opponents, including lobbyist Jeremiah Murphy, argue that these restrictions could push patients towards the black market. The bills now move to the House for further consideration.

Two bills imposing additional restrictions on medical marijuana were passed by the South Dakota House Health and Human Services Committee. HB 1172 mandates a medical assessment in a licensed healthcare facility for obtaining a medical cannabis card, while HB 1129 requires doctors to certify the assessment of a patient's medical history and indicate any contraindications. Both bills, sponsored by Rep. Fred Deutsch, aim to regulate clinic locations, addressing concerns about 'pop-up' clinics. Jeremiah Murphy, a lobbyist for the medical marijuana industry, argued that the bills would limit access to medical marijuana cards. Despite opposition, both bills passed the committee and will proceed to the House for further consideration.

Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller (R-Rapid City) voluntarily dismissed her lawsuit against President Pro Tem Lee Schoenbeck (R-Watertown) following the Senate's decision to reinstate her with a censure and restricted access to Legislative Research Council staff. The suspension and subsequent lawsuit were a result of a complaint filed by an LRC staffer over a conversation about breastfeeding and vaccinations. Frye-Mueller claimed her First Amendment and due process rights were violated, as well as the rights of her constituents.

Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller voluntarily dismissed her lawsuit against President Pro Tem Lee Schoenbeck. The Senate voted overwhelmingly to reinstate Frye-Mueller but censured her and restricted her access to Legislative Research Council staff, interns, and pages. The suspension stemmed from a conversation about breastfeeding and vaccinations with an LRC staffer. Frye-Mueller's lawsuit claimed violations of her First Amendment and due process rights, as well as the rights of her constituents.

A Senate committee in South Dakota passed Senate Bill 55, which bans ranked-choice voting in any form in the state. The bill, sponsored by Republican Sen. John Wiik, aims to protect traditional voting methods. It passed with a 7 to 1 vote, with Democratic Sen. Reynold Nesiba being the sole opponent, arguing that the bill addresses an issue that does not currently exist in the state. The measure will now proceed to the Senate floor for further debate.

The special state Senate committee recommends that Senator Julie Frye-Mueller be censured and reinstated following an incident with a state employee. The committee also suggests banning Frye-Mueller from working with the Legislative Research Council for the remainder of the session. Frye-Mueller expressed dissatisfaction with the process, alleging a political agenda against her. The committee is set to consider the draft recommendation, which could be presented to the Senate floor for consideration. Frye-Mueller was previously suspended pending an investigation into her conduct with a Legislative Research Council staffer.

The South Dakota House of Representatives passed a resolution proposing a state constitutional amendment to consider a work requirement for able-bodied Medicaid recipients. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Tony Venhuizen, the amendment would allow future legislative consideration of such a requirement. Opponents, including Republican Rep. Greg Jamison, argue that it undermines the recent Medicaid expansion approved by voters and that the term 'able-bodied' is ambiguous. The resolution now advances to a Senate committee.

The South Dakota House of Representatives passed a resolution proposing a state constitutional amendment to consider a work requirement for 'able-bodied' Medicaid recipients. The resolution, sponsored by Republican Rep. Tony Venhuizen, does not mandate a work requirement but allows future legislative consideration. Opponents, including Republican Rep. Greg Jamison, argue it undermines the recent Medicaid expansion approved by voters and that the term 'able-bodied' is ambiguous. The resolution now advances to a Senate committee.

A federal judge denied Republican Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller's request to pause disciplinary proceedings, ruling that her request was effectively for a restraining order without notifying Senate President Pro Tem Lee Schoenbeck. Judge Roberto Lange emphasized the need to hear from both parties before making a substantive order, converting the request to a preliminary injunction hearing. The judge instructed Frye-Mueller's attorney, Steven Haugaard, to notify Schoenbeck and schedule a hearing for early February.

Suspended Republican state Senator Julie Frye-Mueller of Rapid City has filed a federal lawsuit in an attempt to be reinstated and halt an ongoing investigation. The lawsuit names Senate President Pro Tem Lee Schoenbeck in his official capacity. The Senate has amended its rules to handle personal matters, similar to standard employer practices in South Dakota. Frye-Mueller was suspended following an exchange with a female legislative staff member, prompting an investigation by the Senate.

A South Dakota House committee approved a proposed constitutional amendment allowing the state to implement an 'able-bodied' work requirement for Medicaid recipients. The amendment, sponsored by Republican Rep. Tony Venhuizen, passed on a party-line vote and now moves to the House. The S.D. Department of Health is currently preparing to implement the 2022 Medicaid expansion, while opponents like Sister Lynn Marie Welbig argue that the new amendment aims to eventually add a work requirement.

A South Dakota House committee approved a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow the state to implement a work requirement for 'able-bodied' Medicaid recipients. The amendment, sponsored by Republican Rep. Tony Venhuizen, passed on a party-line vote and will now proceed to the House. The state is currently in the process of implementing a 2022 constitutional amendment that expanded Medicaid coverage, with the Department of Health drafting rules and hiring staff. Critics like Sister Lynn Marie Welbig suggest that the work requirement will eventually be added.

South Dakota legislators recommended a summer study on the future of nuclear energy in the state through Senate Concurrent Resolution 601. The resolution, sponsored by Republican Sen. Brent Hoffman, does not entail immediate actions such as splitting atoms or building facilities. Public Utilities Commissioner Chris Nelson, along with lobbyists from utilities and industry groups, supported the measure, emphasizing market determination for nuclear power use and acknowledging new reactor designs despite high regulatory and siting costs. The resolution is now proceeding to the full Senate.

South Dakota legislators have recommended a summer study on the future of nuclear energy in the state through Senate Concurrent Resolution 601. The resolution, sponsored by Republican Sen. Brent Hoffman, does not propose immediate actions like splitting atoms or building facilities. Public Utilities Commissioner Chris Nelson and various utility lobbyists supported the measure, emphasizing market-driven decisions and noting the high costs of regulatory and siting for new, smaller nuclear reactor designs. The resolution will now move to the full Senate.

South Dakota legislators recommended a summer study on the future of nuclear energy in the state through Senate Concurrent Resolution 601. The resolution, sponsored by Republican Sen. Brent Hoffman, does not suggest immediate actions such as splitting atoms or building facilities. Public Utilities Commissioner Chris Nelson and lobbyists from utilities and industry groups supported the measure, emphasizing market determination for nuclear power use and noting the existence of new, smaller reactor designs despite high regulatory and siting costs. The resolution is now proceeding to the full Senate.

South Dakota legislators recommended a summer study on the future of nuclear energy in the state through Senate Concurrent Resolution 601. The resolution, sponsored by Republican Sen. Brent Hoffman, does not entail immediate actions such as splitting atoms or building facilities. Public Utilities Commissioner Chris Nelson and lobbyists from utilities and industry groups supported the measure, emphasizing market determination for nuclear power use and acknowledging new reactor designs despite high regulatory and siting costs. The resolution is now proceeding to the full Senate.

The South Dakota House Taxation committee has advanced a bill to eliminate the state sales tax on most grocery items, a key part of Governor Kristi Noem's reelection platform. The bill, which passed with a 12 to 1 vote, aims to save residents approximately $102 million. Supporters argue it will benefit all South Dakotans, particularly older residents, while opponents warn of potential negative impacts on state education funding and tribal revenues. The measure now moves to the House Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

A House committee in South Dakota addressed two controversial issues: the January 6th riot and mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations. Resolutions introduced by Republican Rep. Phil Jensen, which sought humane treatment for January 6th defendants and a state constitutional amendment for medical procedure refusal, were both defeated. Testimonies included arguments for individual liberty and against inhumane treatment, while opposition highlighted public health and alternative solutions.

A bill preventing doctors from issuing medical marijuana cards to pregnant or breastfeeding women has passed the South Dakota House of Representatives. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Fred Deutsch, the bill aims to protect the health of pregnant women and their babies. The measure, which does not affect women who already have a medical marijuana card, passed the House with a 68 to 8 vote and will now move to a Senate committee.

A bill preventing doctors from issuing medical marijuana cards to pregnant or breastfeeding women has passed the South Dakota House of Representatives. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Fred Deutsch, the bill aims to protect the health of pregnant women and their babies. The measure, which does not affect women who already have a medical marijuana card, passed with a vote of 68 to 8 and will now move to a Senate committee.

The South Dakota House of Representatives passed House Bill 1053, which prohibits doctors from issuing medical marijuana cards to pregnant or breastfeeding women. The bill, sponsored by Republican Rep. Fred Deutsch, aims to protect the health of mothers and their babies. It does not affect those who already possess a medical marijuana card. The bill passed with a majority vote and will now proceed to a Senate committee.

South Dakota Senate passed a bill to define physical and mental ailments qualifying for medical marijuana certification, following the South Dakota Department of Health's request for legislative guidance. The bill, supported by Sen. Lee Schoenbeck and Sen. Erin Tobin, aims to ensure proper implementation of voter intent and will now move to a House committee for further consideration.

South Dakota legislators are moving to tighten medical cannabis rules, with the Senate passing a bill to define qualifying ailments for state certification. The South Dakota Department of Health requested legislative guidance, citing a lack of expertise. The measure, supported by Sen. Lee Schoenbeck and Sen. Erin Tobin, passed 20 to 15 and will now be considered by a House committee.

South Dakota lawmakers are working to define the physical and mental ailments that qualify for medical cannabis certification. The Senate passed a bill to provide clarity, with some legislators expressing concerns about the potential for recreational use. The South Dakota Department of Health requested legislative guidance, citing a lack of expertise. The bill, which passed 20 to 15, will now move to a House committee for further consideration.

Kellie Wasco, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Corrections, reported to the House Judiciary Committee that recruitment of correctional officers in Sioux Falls has improved with starting pay increasing from $17 to $23 an hour. Despite 21 new trainees at the corrections academy, the state penitentiary still has 91 vacancies, necessitating mandated overtime. Wasco, who has been in her role for ten months, also highlighted the overcrowding at the women's prison in Pierre and the outdated state penitentiary in Sioux Falls, built in 1881.

The State of South Dakota and its nine tribal nations face both contention and opportunities for closer collaboration. Crow Creek Sioux Tribal Chairman Peter Lengkeek, in his State of the Tribes address, criticized the new K-12 social studies standards and the slow emergency response to recent blizzards. He emphasized the need for better understanding of tribal history and culture, and highlighted areas for potential cooperation, including tourism, economic development, and education. Lengkeek also called for funding a memorial for indigenous code talkers and stressed the importance of meaningful consultation for reconciliation.

The State of South Dakota and its nine tribal nations face both points of contention and opportunities for closer collaboration. Crow Creek Sioux Tribal Chairman Peter Lengkeek, in his State of the Tribes address, criticized the new K-12 social studies standards and the slow emergency response to recent blizzards. He emphasized the need for better understanding of tribal history and culture, and highlighted areas for potential cooperation, including tourism, economic development, and education. Lengkeek also called for funding a memorial for indigenous code talkers and stressed the importance of meaningful consultation for reconciliation.

South Dakota legislators are addressing concerns about bitcoin mining in Harding County, where a cryptocurrency maker's project faces challenges due to decreased bitcoin values, unpaid taxes, and inactive wells requiring capping. School and Public Lands Commissioner Brock Greenfield acknowledged responsibility for lease payments and well management, while collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources continues. The legislative committee has requested further information from the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

South Dakota legislators discussed concerns about bitcoin mining in Harding County, where a cryptocurrency maker obtained natural gas leases to power mining operations. Issues include decreased bitcoin value, unpaid taxes, and inactive wells needing plugging. School and Public Lands Commissioner Brock Greenfield acknowledged responsibility for lease payments and well capping, with collaboration from the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The committee took no action but requested further information from DANR.