Week 6 of the Legislature is moving quickly as we approach Crossover Day on Tuesday, February 24—the deadline when bills must pass their chamber of origin or be considered finished for the session. Committees are working through heavy agendas, and extensive floor calendars are filled with thoughtful debate as both chambers advance legislation and joint resolutions.
There is always a careful balance between regional constituents and considering what is best for the entire state. District 31, nestled in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, brings a wide range of issues to the forefront—from agriculture, education, tourism, outdoor recreation, gaming, science, and mining to the ever-present conversation surrounding property tax reform, which continues to dominate this session.
Key Local Legislation Moving Forward
• HB 1089 – Modifies the distribution of revenues collected from severance taxation on new permits, keeping more gold severance tax revenue within District 31. This bill passed the House unanimously and will now be heard in the Senate.
• SB 102 – Modifies the distribution of gaming revenues, adjusting the formula to direct additional funds into the Deadwood Historic Preservation Fund. This bill passed the Senate Committee on Appropriations with a vote of 8–0 and now heads to the Senate floor.
• SB 125 – Establishes the Homeowner Tax Reduction Fund. It passed the Senate collectively and is now pending in the House. The goal is to provide meaningful property tax relief to homeowners.
Each bill and every vote are thoughtfully considered, recognizing that even well-intended proposals do not always translate into good public policy.
Serving in the Legislature remains a tremendous honor, though it is also a significant commitment. Public service requires long days and late nights, and I am grateful to my family for their support and understanding during missed moments at home. The three-hour drive along Highway 79 often becomes productive time—responding to messages, listening to testimony, and recording voice notes for future reference.
I am continually reminded of the responsibility entrusted to me and encourage constituents to reach out with their thoughts and concerns on legislative matters.
Please join us for the District 31 Cracker Barrel on Saturday, February 28, at 10:00 AM at Deadwood Gulch Gaming Resort. I look forward to seeing you there.
Until then, enjoy the beauty of every day and may God bless.
![Week 6 of the Legislature is moving quickly as we approach Crossover Day on Tuesday, February 24—the deadline when bills must pass their chamber of or ...]()
