On January 10, 2026, the Aurora Douglas Republican Women hosted the District 21 Legislators: Rep. Marty Overweg, Rep. Jim Halverson, and Sen. Mykala Voita for an informational session regarding the upcoming 2026 South Dakota Legislative session at 44 Pizza+ in Platte, SD.

There was a good turnout, delicious food and many topics were discussed. Despite recent funding cuts to SDPB, Representative Overweg said that he anticipated that the legislative sessions will still be televised, and even the committee meetings will be televised which is new this year.

Other topics and questions raised involved property tax, the Future Fund, upcoming legislation about ballots on demand, electronic voting, hunting and fishing guides, and permit processing affecting towns and townships. Proposed data centers and their implications, their needs and effects on local citizens was another topic. Discussion was also held on ambulance service in rural communities, education savings accounts, public health and immunizations, the cost of updating voter records, and cell phones in schools.

Rep. Overweg stressed the importance of communication as the legislature is the people’s voice. If you wish to communicate with legislators, personal emails with your name, district, short message, home address, and phone number are the most useful elements.

You can contact District 21 legislators by email at: Marty Overweg: Marty.Overweg@sdlegislature.gov Jim Halverson: Jim.Halverson@sdlegislature.gov Mykala Voita: Mykala.Voita@sdlegislature.gov