We started the Session this week on Tuesday since Monday was President’s Day. I had two different bills in two different committees at the same time. The first one was SB9 which was brought by Senator Tobin a d had already passed the Senate and was successfully heard in the House Judiciary Committee. The bill limits applications for clemency for violent offenders’ sentences to life imprisonment if the application is denied for a period of 4 years. This protects the victims’ family from going through these frequent hearings. It passed through the committee and unto the House floor where it passed 63 to 6 and is awaiting the governor’s signature.

At the same time HCR 6011 was heard in Senate State Affairs urging the BIA law enforcement to establish a law enforcement training academy in South Dakota. This would bring collaboration between tribal leaders and state law enforcement agencies to offer training programs at the academy to address the unique needs and cultural context of the tribal communities. This passed unanimously and it is also in front of the governor for her signature. SB169 passed out of the House Transportation Committee and the House floor. It protects the safety of manned aircraft and the safety of citizens and property on the ground. This bill protects property rights of private citizens and protects SD citizens against criminal activities with the use of drones. It is awaiting the governors’ signature.

I voted to calendar HB1219 on Tuesday, but we didn’t have enough votes to prevail. It would have prohibited the exercise of eminent domain for the construction of pipelines carrying carbon dioxide. It needed 35 vot4s and received 32.

Friday in House Sate Affairs, SB13 was tabled which would revise the process of nominating candidates for the offices of lieutenant governor, attorney general and secretary of state. This was a bill that was hog housed in the Senate.

I was one of 9 who voted against HB1048 which would raise the requirement pertaining to average teacher compensation and establish a minimum teacher salary. The bill needed more work if it is going to pass the Senate.

The legislature slots are all filled now, and all districts are represented which is necessary for fair governance. The two appointees are digging in and doing a very good job.

Contact me at my legislative email and I appreciate your comments. Sometimes there are several opinions on both sides of a bill but that helps me see what your thoughts are.

Thanks, and please stay safe.