X

The 101st Legislative Session is one third of the way done with the completion of Week Three. The most significant piece of legislation passed was HB1044 making an appropriation for the Rural Health Transformation Program. The bill authorizes 402 million dollars in Federal Funds for supporting health care in rural areas, including strengthening work force, expanding access to care, expanding technology and innovation, and modernizing facilities. 189 million dollars are available the first year. The funding comes from the “Big Beautiful Bill” that was passed in Congress last summer. Governor Rhoden stated "This is a big win for rural South Dakota! This may be the most significant investment in rural healthcare in South Dakota’s history, and it will strengthen our state for our kids and grandkids.” This was the first bill he signed into law this session. HB1044 needed a two thirds vote to pass; if there was ever a time this session for major legislation to pass unanimously it was HB1044, but the final vote was 32-2 in the Senate and 56-11 in the House. S eve r a l S e n at e Jo i n t Resolutions were up this week. SJR501 would limit the number of consecutive terms an individual could serve in the legislature. SJR501 would limit a legislator to 16 consecutive years or eight terms and would then require sitting out a term before the legislator could run again. Currently a legislator may continue to serve more than 16 consecutive years if they switch chambers every eight years. I voted in favor of term limits; it passed the Senate, 20-14; if approved by the House it would be on the ballot in 2026. SJR502 calls for a convention to propose an amendment to the constitution fixing the number of Supreme Court justices at nine. I voted in favor; it passed, 24-10. SJR503 calls for a convention of states to limit the power of the Federal Government and propose term limits for members of Congress. This issue comes up every year. I voted in favor; it passed, 25-9. I hope supporters of this stay cautious about expanding powers of State Government. I can be reached at 605- 660-6468 or kyle.schoenfish@ sdlegislature.gov