As we head into the final week of the legislative session, work in Pierre continues at a fast pace. This past week included important discussions in committee and on the Senate floor on issues ranging from local infrastructure to conservation and school nutrition. I appreciated the opportunity to visit with constituents, recognize outstanding South Dakotans, and continue advocating for policies that support our communities in District 22.
In the Senate Local Government Committee and later on the floor, I supported HB 1245, which gives cities another tool to fund important local projects. Under this bill, if 60% of voters approve, a city may adopt a sales tax of up to 1% to fund a specific project. Once that project is paid for, the tax automatically goes away. This approach trusts local control and can save communities significant money by allowing them to avoid bonding and the interest costs that come with it.
We also had the opportunity to recognize a South Dakotan who is making a real difference in conservation. Shane Jordan, the Spink County NRCS Conservationist, recently received the Hugh Hammond Bennett National Award for Conservation Planning, one of the highest honors in his field. Shane and his wife Heather joined us in the Senate chamber, and it was a privilege to recognize his work supporting our farmers, protecting our land, and strengthening conservation efforts across our state.
Much of this past week’s conversation centered around HB 1082, the school lunch bill I am carrying in the Senate that would help cover meals for students in the reduced-price lunch program. The total statewide cost is under $600,000 for the year, but the impact could be meaningful for families and students.
The bill passed the Senate Education Committee on a 5–2 vote after thoughtful discussion and touching testimony from a Harrisburg student who shared how access to school meals during the pandemic helped improve a friend’s grades and involvement in activities. The bill then moved to Senate Appropriations, where it was defeated 5–4 without discussion.
A few hours later, we successfully revived the bill through a procedural motion known as a “smoke out” and brought it directly to the Senate floor. The full Senate will now debate the bill tomorrow.
This week will be our final week of the legislative session, with Veto Day scheduled for later this month. There is still important work ahead. It will be a busy few days in Pierre as we finish addressing the remaining legislation and finalizing our state’s budget.
I will continue working hard to represent District 22 and fight for what I believe is best for our communities and our future.
As always, thank you for the opportunity to serve. If you have thoughts, questions, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Brandon Wipf
District 22 Senator
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