The second week was just the beginning of a very busy 2024 session. The week started with the annual Department of Revenue update for the Transportation Committee. DOR is switching to a new system called 605 Drive. This program is focused on improving customer service and overall efficiency effectiveness, and security. House Bill 1063, amend the valuation service used to value vehicles, was passed through committee and the House floor this week. This bill allows the modernization of the system by using broader language. Another bill that passed through transportation and the House floor was House Bill 1068, allowing disabled veterans to obtain a standard issue country motor vehicle or motorcycle license plate. It was brought to attention by Rep. Weisgram that though it is an honor, some veterans may want reduced fees without the attention of a veteran's handicapped license plate. This bill would allow disabled veterans to purchase a standard license with reduced fees, as if they were to buy a disabled veteran's plate.

State Affairs had many differing bills. A bill I want to highlight from this meeting was HJR 5001, which was defeated for a good cause. The title of this bill is proposing and submitting to the voters at the next election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring all non-judicial offices elected by a statewide vote to be nominated at a primary election. I voted to kill this bill because it is evident the South Dakota Constitution did not need this particular amendment.

The House voted to approve HB 1041 which would allow federally recognized Indian tribes eligibility for housing grants and loans.

In an effort to address work force challenges, the legislature has authorized entering into compacts with other states. Two compacts were passed this week. The first was HB1015 to adopt the social work licensure compact HB1012 will adopt the interstate counseling licensure compact.

In the State Affairs Committee I moved to have HB1053 sent to the 41st day, which in effect kills the bill. The bill would have created term limits for public utility commissioners. Of note is the fact that our PUC Commissioners act in a judiciary role and do extensive research to enable them to make fair and accurate decisions. Currently, they have leadership positions at the National level because of their tenure.

Friday HB1047 and HB 1046 passed which enhanced the penalties for eluding law enforcement and intentional disarming of a law enforcement

SB7 passed the House Commerce and Energy Committee unanimously. It removes the Gregory Pump Storage Project from the state water resources management system.

On Saturday Rep. Commack introduced House Concurrent Resolution 6008 opposing an initiated measure to place the right to an abortion in the constitution of SD which I have agreed to also sponsor.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, concerns, or comments