Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Connecting South Dakota
This legislative session, I will be working with your district senators and representatives to allocate another $5 million to address more of our connectivity needs.

Education

State maps added to South Dakota Digital Archives
The South Dakota State Historical Society-State Archives has added nearly 700 digitized maps and made them accessible online in the South Dakota Digital Archives thanks to an Outside of Deadwood grant from the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission.

Human Services

SHIINE Program Seeking Consultants
The South Dakota Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE) program is soliciting proposals from qualified consultants to provide a presence in the western and central regions.

Structured Family Caregiving Offered Statewide
The South Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) is now offering Structured Family Caregiving statewide.

Public Safety

Repair, Rebuilding Advice Available in Sioux Falls and Yankton
SIOUX FALLS, SD – FEMA mitigation and flood insurance specialists will be at Menards in Sioux Falls and Yankton next week to offer advice and tips to property owners on how to repair storm damage while rebuilding their properties and making them able to withstand future storms.

Tourism

Governor Noem Honors Tourism Industry Professionals at Annual Banquet
Two South Dakota communities, five individuals, and two businesses were honored at the 2020 Governor’s Conference on Tourism’s annual awards banquet on Thursday, January 23. Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Tourism presented the following awards to tourism industry members.

South Dakota Tourism Industry Touts 10 Years of Growth, Reaches Record Numbers in 2019
South Dakota’s tourism industry has grown again for the tenth straight year, reaching a record level of visitors, visitor spending and impact on the state’s economy.

Governor Kristi Noem

ICYMI: Noem Takes Steps to Increase Housing Availability in South Dakota
This month, Governor Kristi Noem asked the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) to begin utilizing the Revolving Economic Development & Initiative (REDI) Fund to support multi-family, workforce housing projects.

Public Safety

Deadline to Register for Federal Disaster Assistance Approaching
SIOUX FALLS, SD – The deadline for residents with damage from the September severe storms, tornadoes and flooding to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency is Friday, January 31, 2020.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Marks 47th Anniversary of Roe v Wade Ruling, Proclaims January Sanctity of Human Life Month
To mark the 47th anniversary since the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v Wade, Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed January as Sanctity of Human Life Month.

Education

Gov. Noem appoints Heineman and Westra to Board of Education Standards
Governor Kristi Noem has appointed Phyllis Heineman and Julie Westra, both of Sioux Falls, to the South Dakota Board of Education Standards.

Health

Department of Health Launches Comprehensive Plan for Suicide Prevention
The Department of Health today launched South Dakota’s first, comprehensive plan since 2013 to reduce suicide deaths. Over the past decade, South Dakota’s suicide rates rose by nearly 40 percent. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 15-34.

Public Safety

DPS Secretary Price Appointed To Presidential Commission
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Department of Public Safety Cabinet Secretary Craig Price today was appointed by Attorney General William P. Barr to the Presidential Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice during a ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Tourism

Officers Elected for Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board
The South Dakota Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has selected its officers for 2020

Public Safety

Name Released in Lawrence County Fatal Crash
NEMO, S.D. – A 66-year-old man has been identified as the person who died Sunday, Jan. 12, in a one-vehicle crash southwest of Nemo, S.D.

Transportation

I-90 and I-29 Open No Travel Advised Across Most of Eastern SD
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety have opened the closed portions of Interstate 90 and Interstate 29 in both directions.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Recognizes Tribal Groups During State-Tribal Relations Day
Governor Kristi Noem this week attended the State-Tribal Relations Awards Ceremony where she presented certificates of commendation to two tribal groups who have done “extraordinary work” to combat the flow of drugs in their communities.

Governor's Column: South Dakota is OPEN for Business
One of our main priorities last year was recruiting new industries to South Dakota and helping businesses who are looking to grow or expand. And people have responded. It’s not hard to understand why. There are so many reasons why South Dakota is the best place in the nation to do business.

Education

Make Valentine ornaments, enjoy SDSU ice cream Feb. 2 at Cultural Heritage Center
Visitors can create their own 3-D Valentine ornaments and enjoy some South Dakota State University ice cream on Museum Activity Day at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre on Sunday, Feb 2.

South Dakota Her Flag stripe being added Jan. 30 at Cultural Heritage Center
The South Dakota stripe of the national Her Flag project will be added Thursday, Jan. 30, at 7 p.m. CST at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

State Historical Society awards five historic preservation grants
Historic preservation projects in Brookings, Burke, Lake City (Fort Sisseton), Philip, and Pierre recently received matching grants from the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Human Services

State’s SBVI Division Holding Public Forum
The South Dakota Department of Human Services Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired (SBVI) will be holding a public forum on February 3.

Public Safety

Governor Orders 1 p.m. Local Time Closure For State Government Offices in 42 Counties
PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Kristi Noem has ordered a 1 p.m., local time closing for state government executive branch offices in 42 counties included in the current blizzard warning.

Repair, Rebuilding Advice Available in Sioux Falls and Mitchell
SIOUX FALLS, SD – FEMA mitigation and flood insurance specialists will be at Menards in Sioux Falls and Mitchell next week to offer advice and tips on how to repair storm damage and rebuild safer and stronger.

Tourism

Job Openings at Interstate Welcome Centers
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is now accepting applications to fill seasonal positions for travel counselors and supervisors at six Welcome Center locations along Interstates 29 and 90.

Transportation

Portions of I-90 and I-29 Closing at 7 p.m. CST
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are advising motorists that portions of Interstates 29 and 90 will be closing at 7 p.m. CST (Friday, Jan. 17).

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Calls on Businesses to Register for South Dakota Week of Work
Governor Kristi Noem, in partnership with the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the South Dakota Retailers Association, today called on businesses to register for the South Dakota Week of Work April 20-24, 2020.

Education

State Historical Society receives grant to put more historic newspapers online
Three new South Dakota towns are now represented in the digitized historical newspaper collections on Chronicling America.

Public Safety

South Dakota Disaster Recovery Centers to Close, But Help Still Available
SIOUX FALLS, SD—All of the remaining Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in South Dakota are scheduled to permanently close at the end of this week. The deadline for registration is January 31, 2020.

Veterans Affairs

Veterans Should Register in the Burn Pit Registry
The VA Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry is available to eligible veterans and service members to document their exposures and report health concerns through an online questionnaire.

Game, Fish and Parks

Noem Appoints Spring to Game, Fish and Parks Commission
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem announced today that she has appointed Chuck Spring of Union Center to the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Accepting Applications for Eligible Training Providers
The Department of Labor and Regulation is accepting applications for training programs to be approved for the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL).

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Reaffirms Support of Israel, Condemns Anti-Semitism, Signs Executive Order Against BDS Campaign
Governor Kristi Noem today signed an executive order that joins 27 other states in condemning Anti-Semitism and standing against the Boycotts, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign against Israel. The Executive Order directs state entities not to contract with businesses supporting the BDS campaign.

Health

South Dakota Reports First Flu Deaths of Season
Today South Dakota reported three flu-related deaths, the first deaths of the 2019-2020 season.

Public Safety

Highway Patrol Now Accepting Trooper Applications
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Highway Patrol is looking for a group of new troopers to carry the agency through the new decade and beyond.

Tourism

South Dakota Celebrates “Great Faces, Great Places” with 2020 Governor’s Conference on Tourism
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is hosting the 2020 Governor’s Conference on Tourism from January 21-23, in Pierre, S.D. The conference is open for registration to anyone interested in tourism, marketing and hospitality.

Transportation

Signal Repair at Elk Vale Road and Concourse Drive in Rapid City
The South Dakota Department of transportation says a signal pole at the intersection of Elk Vale Road (U.S.16B) and Concourse Drive was struck by a motorist early Saturday morning.

Governor Kristi Noem

State of the State Preview – Governor Kristi Noem: “South Dakota is OPEN for Business”
On Tuesday, Governor Kristi Noem will deliver the annual State of the State Address. Among other topics, Noem will outline why South Dakota is the best state in the country to own and operate a business.

Agriculture

South Dakota State Fair Announces Charlie Daniels Band and Marshall Tucker Band to Play at 2020 State Fair
The South Dakota State Fair is proud to announce that the Fire on the Mountain Tour with the Charlie Daniels Band and Marshall Tucker Band will make the South Dakota State Fair grandstand a stop on Friday, September 4, 2020.

Public Safety

Repair, Rebuilding Advice Available in Sioux Falls and Mitchell
SIOUX FALLS, SD – FEMA mitigation and flood insurance specialists will be at The Home Depot in Sioux Falls and True Value Hardware in Mitchell this week to offer advice and tips on how to repair storm damage and rebuild safer and stronger.

Names Released in Codington County Fatal Crash
WATERTOWN, S.D. – A Waubay, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Thursday night in a two-vehicle crash west of Watertown.

Public Safety

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
NEMO, S.D. – One person died in a one-vehicle crash that occurred early Sunday morning southwest of Nemo, S.D.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column - Four Guardrails: A Path Forward for Decriminalizing Industrial Hemp
Over the last year, we’ve had a long conversation about industrial hemp. I’ve been grateful to talk with folks about the topic and hear different perspectives at townhalls, coffee shops, basketball games, and everywhere in between. On January 9, I outlined for the legislature a path forward – four guardrails, if you will – on hemp.

Education

Suffrage sites, army forts highlighted in “South Dakota History”
Historic sites related to the woman suffrage movement and the history of Fort Sisseton in South Dakota and Fort Totten in North Dakota are featured in the annual historic preservation issue of “South Dakota History,” the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Labor and Regulation

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is accepting applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) in Aurora County as a result of the Presidential Disaster Declaration, FEMA DR-4469.

Public Safety

Applications Now Available for Infrastructure Disaster Recovery Program
PIERRE, S.D. – Applications are now available for local governmental entities who want to apply for the new Infrastructure Disaster Recovery Program.

FEMA Registration Deadline Extended
SIOUX FALLS, SD – The deadline to register with FEMA for disaster assistance after the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from Sept. 9-26 has been extended to January 31, 2020.

Codington County Fatal Crash
WATERTOWN, S.D. – One person died and two others were seriously injured in a two-vehicle crash that occurred early Thursday night west of Watertown.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Game Shop Expands in Parker, Approved for MicroLOAN
PARKER, S.D. – Turbulent Games LLC in Parker, S.D., is a main street shop that sells board games, card games and miniatures, or tabletop games.

Housing Development

SDHDA Hosting Listening Sessions Regarding Housing Programs
South Dakota Housing Development Authority, in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, will be hosting five listening sessions around the state to solicit comments on the 2020 Annual Action Plan of the Consolidated Plan and the allocation plans for the HOME, Housing Tax Credits, Housing Trust Fund, Emergency Solutions Grant, and Housing Opportunity Fund Programs.

Governor Kristi Noem

Four Guardrails: Noem Proposes a Path Forward for Decriminalizing Industrial Hemp
Governor Kristi Noem today sent the legislature her “Four Guardrails” for a path forward on decriminalizing industrial hemp.

Agriculture

Williams and Ree to Perform at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds in March
The South Dakota State Fair is excited to host Williams and Ree at the Nordby Exhibit Hall on the South Dakota State Fairgrounds on Friday, March 13. Comedian Mark Gramm will open for Williams and Ree.

Public Safety

Disaster Recovery Center Opens Friday in Aurora County
SIOUX FALLS, SD – The State of South Dakota and FEMA will open a disaster recovery center in Plankinton to offer face-to-face support to individuals and businesses impacted by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from September 9-26.

Additional Counties Approved for FEMA Assistance
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Homeowners and renters in Aurora County may now register with FEMA for federal disaster assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and loss resulting from the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred Sept. 9 – 26, 2019.

Game, Fish and Parks

Wildlife Diversity Small Grant Proposals Being Accepted
PIERRE, S.D. - The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Wildlife Diversity Program is accepting proposals for the Wildlife Diversity Small Grants Program.

CRP Enrollment Options
The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is currently taking applications to enroll environmentally sensitive agricultural land into perennial cover for 10 to 15 years through the federally funded Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).

Public Safety

Let FEMA Determine Eligibility
Sioux Falls, S.D. – The State of South Dakota and the Federal Emergency Management Agency encourage everyone with damage from the September 9-26, 2019 severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding to register for federal disaster assistance.

Agriculture

Become a Kansas City Barbeque Society Certified BBQ Judge or Table Captain
The annual Original South Dakota BBQ Championships, held in conjunction with Wheel Jam on the South Dakota State Fairgrounds, is a Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned event. To judge a KCBS sanctioned event, judges must be a certified KCBS judge.

Education

Museum at Cultural Heritage Center announces programming schedule for new exhibit “‘The Right is Ours’: Women Win the Vote”
The nationwide celebration of women’s suffrage continues at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre with special programming beginning in January to support the new exhibit “‘The Right is Ours’: Women Win the Vote” that opened in November.

South Dakota teachers, school counselors go above and beyond with professional certifications
Five South Dakota teachers and three school counselors earned national certifications in 2019, demonstrating advanced knowledge and skill in their professions.

Jan. 14 Cultural Heritage Center program features Doolittle Raider Don Smith
A South Dakota pilot who participated in one of the most daring air raids in World War II will be the subject of a program at 7 p.m. CST on Tuesday, Jan. 14, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Public Safety

Names Released in Moody County Fatal Crash
BROOKINGS, S.D. – A Renner, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died in a fatal crash Saturday morning on Interstate 29 west of Flandreau.

Minnehaha Disaster Recovery Center to Close January 11
SIOUX FALLS, SD—The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Sioux Falls will close at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020. Specialists in the DRC have been meeting directly with residents to review their registrations. Visits to the center have now slowed, leading to the closing.

Board of Regents

Search Underway for Special School Administrators
The search has begun for new administrators to oversee the two special schools in South Dakota serving students who are blind and visually impaired and deaf or hard of hearing.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Appoints Schoenfish, Overweg to Serve District 19
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that she has appointed current Representative Kyle Schoenfish to fill the District 19 vacancy in the South Dakota State Senate.

Agriculture

South Dakota Department of Agriculture Seeking Summer Interns
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture is seeking to fill several paid internships for the summer of 2020.

Human Services

WIOA Unified State Plan Public Forum
The South Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) and Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) will hold a public forum on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Unified State Plan.

Transportation

Temporary Closures on I-90 for Bridge Scour Repair
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says the contractor will be closing the westbound lanes of I-90, four miles west of Humboldt, to traffic for four days beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7, through Friday, Jan. 10.

Housing Development

Statewide Homeless Count to be Conducted in January
On Jan. 28, 2020, South Dakota Housing for the Homeless Consortium (SDHHC), an affiliate of South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA), will conduct its annual statewide Point-In-Time (PIT) homeless count.

Public Safety

Moody County Fatal Crash
BROOKINGS, S.D. – One person died in a fatal crash Saturday morning on Interstate 29 west of Flandreau.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Announces more than $21.9 Million for Statewide Environmental Projects
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that the state Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved more than $21.9 million for water, wastewater, watershed, recycling, and solid waste projects. The board met today over the Digital Dakota Network.

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Monday, January 6, 2020, to honor the life of George Blair, a former legislator.

Governor's Column: Keeping Resolutions for 2020
Studies show we’re more likely to achieve our resolutions if we set specific goals. And once those goals are set, we ought to tell someone so we don’t go it alone. With this approach in mind, I decided to put together a list of specific and public resolutions for 2020 that will move us toward a stronger South Dakota.

Corrections

Inmate Daniel Ducret Dies
Ducret, age 67, was found unresponsive in his cell at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls on Jan. 2. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead Jan. 3.

Inmate Richard Barela Placed on Escape Status
Barela left his community service work site in Yankton this afternoon without authorization. He took a 2007 silver Chevy ½ ton pickup with a State of South Dakota license plate that reads CH 331 from the work site.

Education

Family Fun Saturday Jan. 11 at Cultural Heritage Center offers “Something Fishy”
Kick off the new year at the first 2020 Family Fun Saturday, “Something Fishy,” Jan. 11, from 10-11:30 a.m. CST at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Public Safety

Repair, Rebuilding Advice Available in Brookings and Sioux Falls
SIOUX FALLS, SD – FEMA mitigation and flood insurance specialists will be at Lowe’s in Brookings and Sioux Falls next week to offer advice and tips on how to repair storm damage and rebuild safer and stronger.

Names Released In Minnehaha County Fatal Crash
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – A 30-year-old Sioux Falls man has been identified as the person who died in a two-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning north of Sioux Falls.

DPS to Implement Capitol Security Measures Jan. 13, Capitol Access Pass Available for Frequent Visitors
PIERRE, S.D. – The Department of Public Safety today announced that new safety measures that include a security screening process at the South Dakota State Capitol Building will begin Monday, Jan. 13.

Hanson County Disaster Recovery Center Extended
SIOUX FALLS, SD — The Hanson County Disaster Recovery Center will now remain open until further notice.

Transportation

Reminder To Not Dump Snow In Highway Right of Way
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is reminding the public and commercial snow removal operators that it is illegal to place or dump excess snow on highway right of way, which includes driving surfaces, shoulders and ditches.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Announces District 35 Legislative Appointment
Governor Kristi Noem today appointed Jessica Castleberry to represent District 35 in the South Dakota Senate, effective January 1, 2020. The vacancy was created after Lyndi DiSanto announced her resignation. Castleberry will serve during the 2020 legislative session.

Public Safety

Minnehaha County Fatal Crash
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – One person died and another was injured in a two-vehicle crash that occurred early Tuesday morning north of Sioux Falls.

New Year of Sobriety Checkpoints Begins in January
PIERRE, S.D. – Another year of sobriety checkpoints starts throughout South Dakota in January.

Public Safety

Governor Orders 1 p.m. Opening For State Government Offices in 46 Counties
PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Kristi Noem has ordered a 1 p.m. local time Monday opening for state government executive branch offices in counties impacted by this past weekend’s winter storm.

Transportation

I-90 and I-29 Open - Travel Caution
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety have opened the closed portions of Interstate 90 and Interstate 29 in both directions.

Transportation

I-29 Closing from Watertown to North Dakota Border
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are advising motorists that Interstate 29 will be closing from Watertown to the North Dakota border, both north and southbound, effective immediately.

I-90 to Remain Closed Until Monday
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are advising motorists that Interstate 90 will be remain closed overnight into Monday. The closure area is I-90 westbound from Mitchell to Wall and I-90 eastbound from Rapid City Exit 67 to Mitchell.

Transportation

Portions of I-90 Closing at 7 p.m.
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are advising motorists that eastbound Interstate 90 will be closing from Rapid City to Mitchell and westbound Mitchell to Wall at 7 p.m. CST (6 p.m. MST).

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: A Year of Progress
With another holiday season nearly behind us, I want to take a moment to reflect on the many things we’ve accomplished this year.

Education

Three more state properties listed on National Register of Historic Places
Three more South Dakota properties were recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, according to the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Public Safety

Hanson County Disaster Recovery Center Extended to Jan. 4
SIOUX FALLS, SD — The Hanson County Disaster Recovery Center will now remain open until 6 p.m. on Saturday Jan. 4, 2020. It will not close on Saturday Dec. 28as previously announced.

Transportation

WEEKEND STORM WILL CREATE DIFFICULT DRIVING CONDITIONS
Officials are cautioning travelers that a winter storm making its way into South Dakota starting tonight (Friday), will likely make travel nearly impossible in many areas through the weekend and in to Monday.

Highway 46 Bridge Replacement West of Beresford
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says reconstruction of the Highway 46 bridge west of Beresford will begin on Jan. 6, 2020.

Public Safety

Repair, Rebuilding Advice Available in Yankton
SIOUX FALLS, SD – FEMA mitigation specialists will visit Kopetsky’s Ace Hardware in Yankton to offer advice on how to repair and rebuild structures safer and stronger.

Names Released in Marshall County Fatal Crash
VEBLEN, S.D. – Names have been released of the two people who died Monday morning in a one-vehicle crash near Veblen.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces Staff Changes for the New Year
Governor Kristi Noem today announced the addition of Maggie Seidel as Senior Advisor and Policy Director, as well as the departures of Joshua Shields, Chief of Staff to the Governor's Office, and Emily Kiel, Communications Director.

Public Safety

Marshall County Fatal Crash
VEBLEN, S.D. – Two people died Monday morning in a one-vehicle crash near Veblen.

DPS Officials Urge Safe Driving During Christmas Week
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety reminds people that a safe Christmas holiday begins when they get behind the wheel.

Public Safety

Holiday Closures Set for Disaster Recovery Centers
Disaster Recovery Centers in South Dakota will be closed Christmas and New Year's Day.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Merry Christmas!
This Christmas season, hold the people you love tightly. Reflect on the year gone by and the areas you’ve grown. Give thanks regardless of your circumstance. Set goals for the new year. And maybe play some Yahtzee too.

Noem, BFM Release Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
Governor Kristi Noem and the Bureau of Finance and Management (BFM) today released the State’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for fiscal year 2019. The annual report includes the state government’s complete financial statements.

Noem Responds to Presidential Executive Order on Refugee Resettlement
Governor Kristi Noem yesterday issued a letter of consent to Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo in response to an executive order issued by President Donald J. Trump on Sept. 26, 2019, concerning enhanced state and local involvement in refugee resettlement.

Education

State Historical Society Director Vogt receives presidential recognition
President Donald J. Trump has announced his intent to appoint Jay D. Vogt of Pierre, director of the South Dakota State Historical Society, as an expert member of the President’s Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP).

Public Safety

Fire Safety A Must During Holidays
PIERRE, S.D. – Lights and other decorations are part of the holiday season, but South Dakota’s Fire Marshal says decorations, especially candles, can create safety hazards and cause fires when not used properly.

Understanding FEMA Assistance Decisions and Your Right to Appeal
SIOUX FALLS, SD—If you received a letter from FEMA saying you are not eligible for federal disaster assistance, you may wonder what happened. The letter will explain why the decision was made. Missing documentation and not enough damage to essential living space are among the most common reasons one can initially be found ineligible.

Board of Regents

Interim BHSU Presidential Appointment Made Permanent
The South Dakota Board of Regents will make permanent an interim appointment of Laurie Stenberg Nichols as Black Hills State University president. The decision was announced today, after a meeting of the presidential search committee Wednesday in Spearfish.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Statement on RFS Final Rule
Governor Kristi Noem today issued the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency’s ruling to establish the required renewable volumes under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program for 2020

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Friday, December 20, 2019, to honor the life of Sheldon Songstad, a former legislator.

Noem Statement on House Passage of USMCA
Governor Kristi Noem today released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA):

Agriculture

South Dakota Department of Agriculture Identifies New Insect Pest in Christmas Greenery
A new insect pest known as the elongate hemlock scale is appearing in Christmas greenery sold in South Dakota and surrounding states.

Corrections

Inmate Michael Hillmer In Custody
A minimum-security inmate placed on escape status earlier this week is back in custody.

Public Safety

One Month South Dakota Disaster Recovery Update
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – One month after President Donald J. Trump approved a major disaster declaration for South Dakota because of severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, federal agencies have provided more than $6.5 million in grants and loans to assist in recovery as of Dec. 18, 2019.

Transportation

State Railroad Board Takes Action on Possible Sale of State-owned Railroad Lines
The South Dakota State Railroad Board (Board) acted today on proposals received by the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) on Nov. 21, 2019, for possible acquisition of state-owned railroad assets.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA and Avera Partner to Enhance Veterans’ End-of-Life Care
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs and Avera have partnered to build a consortium of veteran volunteers to ensure that excellent care at the end of life is available for our veterans.

Housing Development

Additional Financial Assistance Available for Homeowners Recovering from Natural Disasters
South Dakota Housing Development Authority’s (SDHDA) Board of Commissioners approved additional funding to aid in recovery efforts for households impacted by the 2019 natural disasters.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem, Rounds Request U.S Army Corps of Engineers Increase Missouri River Mainstem Dam Releases to Prepare for Spring Runoff
Gov. Kristi Noem (R-S.D.) and U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) sent a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) requesting a marginal increase in releases from Gavins Point Dam. This would allow additional storage in the dam system to accommodate runoff this upcoming spring. Additionally, Noem and Rounds urged USACE to take measures to improve predictions in order to prevent significant flooding during wet years and to make sure water is available during a drought.

Noem Re-Appoints Team to Assist Counties in Mitigation Efforts
On December 10, Governor Kristi Noem signed an executive order re-appointing the Hazard Mitigation Team. The team consists of representatives from 11 state agencies and other non-governmental personnel and is designed to assist counties in mitigation planning efforts.

Public Safety

Yankton Disaster Recovery Center to Close December 21
SIOUX FALLS, SD—The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Yankton will close at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, 2019. Specialists in the DRC have been meeting directly with applicants to review their applications. Visits to the center have now slowed, leading to the closing.

Transportation

Temporary Closures on I-90 for Bridge Scour Repair
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is set to begin work on the Interstate 90 westbound bridge over the Vermillion River located four miles west of Humboldt this week.

Board of Regents

Retirement Ahead for Superintendent of SD Special Schools
Marje Kaiser, a long-time educator in South Dakota and the superintendent of the state schools for the blind and visually impaired and the deaf, has announced her plans to retire next year, capping a 45-year career in special education.

Corrections

Inmate Michael Hillmer Placed on Escape Status
Hillmer left his community service work site in Yankton without authorization late this morning.

Inmate Michael Rich Death
Rich passed away Dec. 15 in a comfort care setting at the Jameson Annex to the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls following an illness.

Education

Time to submit Notice of Intent to Apply for 21st CCLC grant funding
Now is the time for schools and other organizations interested in 21st Century Community Learning Centers, or 21st CCLC, grants to submit a Notice of Intent to Apply.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Encourages South Dakota Leaders to Apply for the White House Fellows Program
On behalf of the President’s Commission on White House Fellowships, Governor Kristi Noem today encouraged “up-and-coming South Dakota leaders” to apply to the White House Fellows Program.

Governor's Column: Lead Now.
South Dakota thrives when South Dakotans lead.

Corrections

Inmate John Feather in Custody
A minimum-security inmate who was placed on escape status earlier this week is back in custody.

Education

Department of Education’s strategic plan focuses on championing excellence
The South Dakota Department of Education has released its strategic plan, which will guide the department’s activities through 2024.

Public Safety

Register Now for Disaster Unemployment Assistance
SIOUX FALLS, SD – Workers who lost their jobs, and self-employed individuals and farmworkers who have been unable to work due to the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred Sept. 9-26, 2019 may be eligible for disaster unemployment assistance. Funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in coordination with the U.S. Department of Labor, the Disaster Unemployment Assistance program is administered by the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces Changes to Oversight of Private Treatment Facilities for Children and Youth
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that she will bring legislation in the 2020 session that will improve the oversight of private treatment facilities for children and youth.

Human Services

Medicare Card Reminder
The South Dakota Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE) program would like to remind all individuals that Medicare cards with Social Security Numbers will no longer be accepted effective Jan. 1, 2020.

Public Safety

State/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Davison County
SIOUX FALLS, SD – The State of South Dakota and FEMA have opened a disaster recovery center in Mitchell, Davison County, to offer face-to-face support to individuals and businesses impacted by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from September 9 - 26.

Tourism

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR SDAC FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakota artists, arts organizations and other nonprofit groups are invited to seek grant support from the South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) to assist in funding arts projects and programs in fiscal year 2021.

Board of Regents

Regents Approve Academic Program Requests to Develop Workforce
The South Dakota Board of Regents this week approved academic program requests from Dakota State and Northern State universities to meet emerging workforce and economic development trends statewide.

Game, Fish and Parks

South Dakota Snowmobile Trails Open Dec. 15
PIERRE, S.D. – Snowmobile trails across South Dakota open Sunday, Dec. 15.

Public Safety

State/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Minnehaha County
SIOUX FALLS, SD – The State of South Dakota and FEMA have opened a disaster recovery center in Minnehaha County to offer face-to-face support to individuals and businesses impacted by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from September 9 - 26.

Corrections

Inmate John Feather Placed on Escape Status
Inmate Feather failed to report to his community service job site in Rapid City on Dec. 10.

Public Safety

FEMA Can Assist With Furnaces, Wells and Septic Systems
SIOUX FALLS, SD – As the temperatures drop, the furnace becomes the most important appliance in the home. South Dakotans who had a furnace damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding between September 9 - 26, should contact FEMA, even if they have already made repairs or purchased a replacement. FEMA can also help with wells and septic systems impacted by the disaster.

South Dakota Lottery

South Dakota Lottery urges responsible gaming this holiday season
The South Dakota Lottery reminds citizens that scratch tickets are not suitable gifts for minors.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Weekly Column: Driving Opportunity
It’s been a difficult year, yes, but we have tremendous opportunity before us. The growth of our current industries and the attraction of new ones will drive opportunity. Expanding on some already successful initiatives will drive opportunity. And laying the foundation to enhance our competitiveness with respect to other states will help ensure our top talent stays in South Dakota – creating more opportunity for years to come.

Noem Orders Flags at Half-Staff for National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Upon the directive of President Donald Trump, Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags across the state to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, December 7, 2019, in recognition of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

Public Safety

Disaster Recovery Centers Coming to Six South Dakota Counties
SIOUX FALLS – The State of South Dakota and FEMA are opening Disaster Recovery Centers in six counties across the state. The centers offer in-person support to individuals and businesses that suffered losses from the severe winter storms and flooding from Sept. 9 – 26, 2019. Each center will be open for five days.

Social Services

Middle Schools to Receive Meth-Focused Prevention Programming
The South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) today announced that 9 prevention providers statewide will receive funds to support over 40 South Dakota middle schools to provide evidence-based substance use prevention programming, with emphasis on methamphetamine prevention.

Transportation

HIGHWAY 18 OPEN EAST OF LAKE ANDES
The South Dakota Department of Transportation has reopened Highway 18 east of Lake Andes.

U.S. 16 Corridor Study Public Open House
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the City of Rapid City, Pennington County, and the Rapid City Area MPO, will hold a public open house at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at the Event Center at Black Hills Energy, 7001 Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City to inform area residents of the beginning of the U.S. 16 Corridor Study.

Environment and Natural Resources

Dell Rapids Receives Exceptional Project Award for Wastewater Treatment Improvements
Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announce that the Dell Rapids Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements project was selected as a 2019 Performance and Innovation in the State Revolving Fund Creating Environmental Success (PISCES) Exceptional Project by the Environmental Protection Agency for Region 8.

Rapid City Receives Exceptional Project Award for Water Expansion
Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announce that the East Rapid City Water System Expansion project has been selected as a 2019 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund AQUARIUS Exceptional Project by the Environmental Protection Agency for Region 8.

Game, Fish and Parks

Fort Sisseton Celebrates a Frontier Christmas
LAKE CITY, S.D. – Get in the holiday spirit at Fort Sisseton Historic State Park's annual Frontier Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 14. Relive Christmas traditions from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Proclaims Women’s Vote Centennial Celebration Day, Assembles Women’s Vote Centennial Delegation
Governor Kristi Noem proclaimed today as “Women’s Vote Centennial Celebration Day” in South Dakota. On December 4, 1919, South Dakota was one of the first states to ratify the Nineteenth Amendment, approving it during a special legislative session.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Wednesday, December 4, 2019, to honor the life of Kermit Staggers, a former legislator.

Governor Noem’s Budget Provides Disaster Relief
Governor Noem’s budget builds partnerships with local governments to provide disaster relief resources and implement programs to mitigate future disasters.

Governor Noem’s Budget Supports Education in South Dakota
Governor Noem’s budget better equips educators and schools by adjusting funding formulas for general and special education.

Governor Noem’s Budget Supports Long-Term Care Services
Governor Noem is building sustainable models of care to ensure individuals have improved access to quality, long-term care services.

Governor Noem’s Budget Strengthens Families
Governor Noem is strengthening families by designating funds for foster parent training, supporting family reunification, and improving services for child maltreatment victims.

Governor Noem’s Budget Improves Public Safety
Governor Noem is prioritizing the safety of families and communities by combating the meth epidemic and equipping law enforcement with modernized communication tools.

Governor Noem’s Budget Invests in Next Generation Industries
Governor Noem is investing in next generation industries by increasing high-speed internet access, bolstering cybersecurity development, and investing in healthcare training programs.

Noem Announces District 32 Legislative Appointment
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that she is appointing Helene Duhamel of Rapid City to represent District 32 in the South Dakota Senate.

Transportation

Lane Closures on I-229 at 26th Street
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says Interstate 229 southbound and northbound in Sioux Falls will be reduced to one lane by the 26th Street exit beginning Wednesday, Dec. 4

Corrections

Inmate Wayne Trousdale Dies
Trousdale, age 82, passed away Dec. 1 at a Sioux Falls hospital.

Education

State Historical Society announces spring Deadwood Fund grant applications
The South Dakota State Historical Society announces that the applications for the first round of the 2020 Deadwood Fund grant program are due on Feb. 1, 2020, for work beginning no earlier than May 1, 2020.

Public Safety

State and FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Yankton
SIOUX FALLS, SD – The State of South Dakota and FEMA have opened a disaster recovery center in Yankton to offer face-to-face support to individuals and businesses impacted by the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding from September 9-26.

Names Released in Beadle County Fatal Crash
CAVOUR, S.D. – A Cavour, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died early Friday morning in a one-vehicle rollover that occurred south of Cavour.

Transportation

I-90 Open Travel Caution
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety have opened the closed portion of Interstate 90 (Wyoming border to Chamberlain) in both directions. Officials are advising motorists that even though the interstate is open, driving conditions are still hazardous throughout much of the state and there are still No Travel Advisories posted on numerous highways, especially in the southeast part of the state, including I-90.

Transportation

I-90 To Remain Closed Travel Caution
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are advising motorists that Interstate 90 will remain closed from Chamberlain to the Wyoming border at least overnight and crews will reassess conditions Sunday morning.

Public Safety

Beadle County Fatal Crash
CAVOUR, S.D. – One person died early Friday morning in a one-vehicle rollover that occurred south of Cavour.

Names Released in Spink County Fatal Crash
TULARE, S.D. – Two females from Leola, S.D., have been identified as the people who died in a two-vehicle crash that occurred Sunday night south of Tulare.

Transportation

I-90 Closing from the Wyoming Border to Chamberlain
The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are advising motorists that Interstate 90 will be closing tonight between the Wyoming border and Chamberlain, both east and west bound, at 12 a.m. CST (11 p.m. MST).

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Saturday, November 30, 2019, to honor the life of T. Loren Christianson, a former legislator.

Governor's Column: Giving Thanks
From my family to yours, have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving.

South Dakota Launches Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program
Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Departments of Veterans Affairs, Military, and Transportation this week launched the new Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program. The program will dedicate state bridges after South Dakotans who died while in active service. More than 3,000 South Dakotans have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Noem Seeks Public Input for District 35 Senate Nomination
Governor Kristi Noem is seeking public input for a District 35 Senate vacancy. The opening was created after current State Senator Lyndi DiSanto announced her resignation effective December 31, 2019.

Public Safety

FEMA Denies South Dakota’s Disaster Request Appeal
PIERRE, S.D. – The Department of Public Safety has announced that FEMA denied the state’s appeal for a presidential disaster declaration covering severe weather damage done in six South Dakota counties from Aug. 2-11, 2019.

December Sobriety Checkpoints Announced
PIERRE, S.D. – Sobriety checkpoints are scheduled for 14 counties statewide during December.

Public Utilities Commission

PUC gives Tatanka Ridge Wind Project permit to construct
The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission voted today, Nov. 26, 2019, to approve the construction of the Tatanka Ridge Wind Project to be built in Deuel County.

Agriculture

Stock Car Races and World of Outlaws Return to South Dakota State Fairgrounds
The South Dakota State Fair and Dakota Promotions are pleased to announce that a trio of stock car races will be held at the Dakota State Fair Speedway on the South Dakota State Fairgrounds in 2020.

Public Safety

FEMA Representatives to Visit South Dakota Neighborhoods
SIOUX FALLS, SD – Residents of South Dakota counties affected by September severe storms, tornadoes and flooding may soon see FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams and home inspectors in their neighborhoods.

DPS Officials Urge Safe Travel During Thanksgiving Holiday
PIERRE, S.D. – Thanksgiving is a time for traveling and the South Dakota Department of Public Safety wants citizens to get to their destinations safely.

Transportation

SDDOT Awards Economic Development Grants
The South Dakota Transportation Commission has awarded $4 million in economic development grants for infrastructure improvements to foster economic development and enhance community access in South Dakota.

Public Input for Dell Rapids Master Transportation Plan Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation, in collaboration with the City of Dell Rapids, will hold a public open house as part of the Dell Rapids Master Transportation Plan.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s November Column – Honoring our Heroes
South Dakota plans to dedicate six bridges each year. The application form to nominate a fallen hero will also be posted on our website.

Public Safety

Be Safe With Fires This Thanksgiving
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Fire Marshal reminds people to enjoy all the great food this Thanksgiving holiday, but also to be mindful that fires occur more often this time of year.

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Madison
SIOUX FALLS, SD – The State of South Dakota and FEMA have opened a disaster recovery center in Madison to offer face-to-face support to individuals and businesses impacted by the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding from September 9-26.

Spink County Fatal Crash
TULARE, S.D. – Two people died and three other people were seriously injured in a two-vehicle crash that occurred early Sunday night south of Tulare.

Public Safety

Names Released in Lyman County Fatal Crash
KENNEBEC, S.D. – Names have been released of the two people who died in a one-vehicle crash that occurred early Tuesday morning north of Kennebec.