We covered a lot of ground at the Capitol this past week, with important conversations and key votes on agriculture, property taxes, local control, and the future of South Dakota. Here’s a quick recap of what we worked on and what it means moving forward.
We began the week by passing SB 60 to protect South Dakota farmland. As a producer myself, whose land has been handed down from one generation to the next, I understand firsthand what is at stake. Agriculture is the foundation of our state, and we must protect our land from adversaries who see it as nothing more than an investment or strategic asset rather than a way of life. This legislation helps ensure our farmland remains in the hands of those who live here, work here, and feed the world.
On Tuesday, the Senate advanced SB 125, which creates a homeowner tax reduction fund. Property taxes have been a central theme in the legislature so far this session, and this bill represents an important step toward providing meaningful relief to homeowners. While there is still work ahead, this is a positive move toward addressing long-term affordability challenges.
I also had the opportunity to sit down with Governor Rhoden following his recent veto of HB 1077. We discussed how to move forward in a way that avoids costly litigation, reduces unnecessary regulatory barriers for our producers, and provides a clear, workable framework for the future. While the issue has been contentious, I believe we are moving toward a more balanced and practical solution.
An official press release will be issued soon, but I wanted you to hear this update here first. On Wednesday, I submitted my petitions to the Secretary of State, officially filing my candidacy for the next election cycle. Thank you to everyone who has offered encouragement and support along the way.
Wednesday was a busy day. That same day in committee, we defeated a proposal that would have imposed a one-size-fits-all state mandate on county governments regarding when and how they hold their meetings. I strongly believe that local leaders know their communities best, and I will continue to support local control rather than unnecessary top-down mandates from Pierre.
We also passed SJR 504, which places the question of mobile sports betting before voters on a future ballot. These activities are already occurring through unregulated and often questionable platforms, with revenue flowing out of South Dakota. I believe the people deserve the opportunity to decide whether to regulate this activity and keep those revenues here at home.
On Thursday, the Agriculture Committee approved a measure establishing a fund to begin preparing for future water projects. When federal funding opportunities become available, having state resources already in place demonstrates good faith and strengthens our ability to compete for those investments. Planning ahead ensures South Dakota is ready to meet future infrastructure and water needs.
We also had a vigorous floor debate on SB 190, which addresses parental rights. Ensuring that parents remain central in important decisions about their children is incredibly important. At the same time, we must carefully consider how this legislation affects complex situations, including cases involving abuse in the home or emergency healthcare decisions. These are sensitive and nuanced issues that require balance, and I will only support SB 190 if appropriate safeguards are included to protect children while respecting parental involvement.
As always, I appreciate hearing from you. Your calls, emails, and conversations help guide my work at the Capitol, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our district. If you have legislative questions, comments, or concerns, please reach out to me at [email protected]. For campaign-related inquiries, you can contact me at [email protected].
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