Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Introduces Legislation to Simplify City Zoning Regulations
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will introduce a bill to simplify city zoning regulations and ease the permitting process for homebuilders and homeowners in South Dakota.

Public Utilities Commission

Hanson begins fourth term on South Dakota Public Utilities Commission with oath of office
South Dakota Public Utilities Commissioner Gary Hanson took the oath of office on Jan. 4, 2021, marking the official start to his fourth term on the PUC.

Environment and Natural Resources

South Dakota State Fair Commission Elects New Chairman
The South Dakota State Fair Commission held its annual meeting Tuesday, January 19, 2021, and elected Faron Wahl as chair and Jamie White as vice-chair.

2021 South Dakota Wildland Fire Academy Registration Now Open
Registration is now open for the 2021 South Dakota Wildland Fire Academy to be held in Ft. Pierre, South Dakota, on March 18-21, 2021.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Jan. 16
During the week of Jan. 10-16, a total of 649 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Union County Fatal Crash
ALCESTER, S.D., -- A 68-year-old man from Alcester, S.D., has died from injuries sustained in an ATV crash that occurred on Monday, Jan. 18, near Alcester.

Tourism

South Dakota’s Tourism Industry Shows Resilience Despite 2020 Challenges
South Dakota’s tourism industry held its own when compared to other states during the COVID-19 pandemic. During a Thursday address, Governor Kristi Noem and Jim Hagen, Secretary of the Department of Tourism, revealed 2020 tourism economic impact numbers.

Tourism Industry Professionals Honored by Governor Noem
On Thursday, January 21, Governor Kristi Noem and the Department of Tourism presented awards to tourism industry members and businesses, honoring their ingenuity & diligence, extraordinary customer service practices, and lifetime commitment to tourism.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Introduces Legislation to Codify Healthcare Flexibilities
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will introduce two pieces of legislation to codify executive orders that originally provided flexibility to healthcare providers in response to COVID-19. The two pieces of legislation cover telehealth and recognition of out-of-state healthcare licenses.

Governor Noem Thanks President Trump for Pardons of South Dakotans
Today, Governor Kristi Noem thanked President Donald J. Trump for three pardons issued to South Dakotans.

Education

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

Environment and Natural Resources

SDDA Seeking Public Comments on the Draft Coordinated Plan for Natural Resources Conservation
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) is seeking public comments on the draft Coordinated Plan for Natural Resources Conservation.

Transportation

Department of Transportation Seeks Public Input into I-90 Exit 63 Interchange Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the Rapid City Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), and the City of Box Elder, will hold a virtual public meeting between Jan 20, and Feb. 20, 2021, to inform and obtain comments from area residents on the option being recommended as part of the interchange study.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order on DANR Merger
Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2021-03 to merge the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, forming a new Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR).

Public Safety

Names Released In Union County Fatal Crash
ELK POINT, S.D. – A Gayville, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Friday night in a two-vehicle crash south of Elk Point.

Names Released In Codington County Fatal Crash
WATERTOWN, S.D. – A Watertown, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died last Friday in a two-vehicle crash northwest of Watertown.

Tourism

Officers Reelected for Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board
The South Dakota Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has selected its officers for 2021.

Revenue

The Department of Revenue reopens their temporary office at the Huron Area Senior Center
Beginning February 11, the Department of Revenue will reopen their Huron Temporary Office to individuals and businesses who have any tax related questions.

Public Safety

Union County Fatal Crash
ELK POINT, S.D. – One person died and two others were injured Friday night in a two-vehicle crash south of Elk Point.

Governor Kristi Noem

Civic Education for the Next Generation
Across America these last several months, we have witnessed a very troubling situation where violent actors are trying to do an end-run around public discourse.

Health

Department of Health on Federal COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation & Phase I
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Secretary of Health Kim Malsam-Rysdon, released the following statement highlighting expansion of statewide vaccine efforts starting next week and addressing federal COVID-19 vaccine allocation:

Public Safety

Codington County Fatal Crash
WATERTOWN, S.D. – One person died Friday morning in a two-vehicle crash northwest of Watertown.

I-29 to North Dakota Border to Reopen at 7:30 a.m. CST
PIERRE, S.D. -- The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety say Interstate 29 from Sioux Falls to the North Dakota border will reopen at 7:30 a.m. CST this morning (Friday).

Portions of I-29 and I-90 to Reopen at 6:30 a.m. CST
PIERRE, S.D. -- The South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety say Interstate 29 from Sioux Falls to the Iowa border and Interstate 90 from Sioux Falls to the Minnesota border will reopen at 6:30 a.m. CST this morning (Friday).

Education

Now is the time to plan: Summer Food Service Program seeking sponsors
The South Dakota Department of Education’s office of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking sponsors for a federally funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Jan. 9
During the week of Jan. 3-9, a total of 905 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Tourism

FOOD NETWORK’S DINERS, DRIVE-INS AND DIVES SHOWCASES SIOUX FALLS’ ECLECTIC CULINARY DELIGHTS
Throughout the month of January, Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives will take viewers on a culinary adventure through some of Sioux Falls’ most delicious restaurants. The show’s boisterous host, Guy Fieri, visited South Dakota’s largest city in 2020, finding plenty of “flavor-bombs” along the way at restaurants such as Urban Chislic, Lalibela and ‘O’ So Good.

Transportation

Department of Transportation Seeks Public Input into the US14A / US85 / Deadwood Box Corridor Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the City of Deadwood, will hold the second online public meeting to inform area residents of the options developed for the U.S. 14A / U.S. 85 / Deadwood Box Corridor Study.

Temporary Lane Closures on Haines Avenue
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says there will be a single lane closure in the north and southbound lanes of Haines Avenue while temporary traffic signals are installed at the intersection of Haines Avenue and Mall Drive. This work will take place Jan.18-21, 2021.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s January Column – Caregiver Support Program Expands
Caregivers play an important role in the health and well-being of veterans, and their undertakings are often a 24/7 job. We want caregivers for our heroes to know there are improved services and programs to assist them.

Health

SD Health Department Announces Beginning Stages of Priority Group 1D for Next Week
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health is announcing that starting on Monday, January 18, 2021, the Department of Health and its health partners across the state will start vaccinating a prioritized population group, within Group 1D, of the state’s vaccination plan.

Transportation

Department of Transportation & Hughes County Seek Public Input into Hughes County Master Transportation Plan Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation, in collaboration with Hughes County, will hold an online public meeting to present information on the Hughes County Master Transportation Plan.

Governor Kristi Noem

2021 State of the State (as prepared)
Lieutenant Governor Rhoden, Mr. Speaker, members of the Legislature, Chief Justice Jensen, Justices of the Supreme Court, constitutional officers, and fellow South Dakotans, it is my privilege to stand before you today to discuss the state of our state.

Public Safety

Names Released In Lake County Fatal Crash
MADISON, S.D. – A Colton, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash southeast of Madison.

Tourism

Governor Noem announces student art exhibition
PIERRE – Gov. Kristi Noem announced 12 students who are being recognized for their artistic talents through the new Governor’s Student Art Competition. An exhibition of the artwork will be displayed in the South Dakota Capitol Building beginning Jan 12.

Transportation

South Dakota Department of Transportation Announces Name the Snowplow Contest
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) has rolled out South Dakota’s first ever Name the Snowplow Contest.

Education

South Dakota teachers, school counselors go above and beyond with professional certifications
Four South Dakota teachers and three school counselors earned national certifications in 2020, demonstrating advanced knowledge and skill in their professions.

Social Services

ALDI to join list of online options for SNAP recipients
On Tuesday, January 12, ALDI grocery stores will join the list of online grocery shopping options for recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in South Dakota.

Tourism

“Onward!” 2021 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is hosting the 2021 Governor’s Conference on Tourism, January 20-21. The conference is now officially open for registration to anyone interested in tourism, marketing and hospitality. Conference attendees will be able to register to participate virtually or for limited in-person attendance.

Public Safety

Lake County Fatal Crash
MADISON, S.D. – One person died and three others were injured in a two-vehicle crash Friday afternoon southeast of Madison.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order
Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed an executive order pertaining to the Amendment A litigation.

Education

State Historical Society awards four historic preservation grants
Historic preservation projects in St. Onge, Sioux Falls, Belle Fourche, and Mitchell recently received matching grants from the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem signed an executive order to give flexibility as South Dakota fights the spread of COVID-19.

Public Utilities Commission

South Dakota PUC representatives elected to leadership positions within Southwest Power Pool
South Dakota Public Utilities Commissioner Kristie Fiegen was elected to serve as president of Southwest Power Pool’s Regional State Committee (RSC) throughout 2021.

Environment and Natural Resources

DENR Announces more than $8.7 Million for Statewide Environmental Projects
Today, the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announced the state Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved more than $8.7 million for drinking water, recycling, and solid waste projects.

South Dakota State Fair Foundation Announces, ‘Discover the DEX’ Fundraising Campaign for a New Livestock Complex
The South Dakota State Fair Foundation is excited to announce the ‘Discover the DEX’ fundraising campaign to help fund the DEX: Dakota Events CompleX.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Jan. 2
During the week of Dec. 27 through Jan. 2, a total of 542 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Housing Development

Statewide Homeless Count to be Conducted in January
On Jan. 26, 2021, 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.

Environment and Natural Resources

Prescribed Fire at the Outdoor Campus - West
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s Wildland Fire Division and South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks plan to ignite the Adventure Trail prescribed fire located at the Outdoor Campus - West on Thursday, January 7, 2021.

Health

SD Health Department Launches New COVID-19 Vaccination Info-Tool(s)
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health is announcing the release of two helpful tools designed to better inform South Dakotans on the ongoing COVID-19 vaccine distribution and administration process. These tools are in addition to the already available dashboard, which is updated daily.

Public Safety

FEMA Approves Funding for Sioux Valley Southwestern Electric
SIOUX FALLS, SD – FEMA has approved $3.64 million to reimburse Sioux Valley Southwestern Electric Cooperative for repairs in the wake of a severe winter storm in 2019. High winds and heavy icing caused widespread damage to the electric cooperative’s equipment leaving nearly 10,000 customers in Lake, Minnehaha and Moody counties without power and damaging hundreds of poles, power lines, and other equipment.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Kristi Noem and BFM Release Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
Today, Governor Kristi Noem and the Bureau of Finance and Management (BFM) released the State’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for fiscal year 2020.

Protecting and Preserving South Dakota’s Agriculture and Natural Resources
South Dakota’s values and beliefs are rooted in our agricultural heritage and our boundless natural resources.

Public Utilities Commission

Nelson elected to lead South Dakota Public Utilities Commission
Commissioner Chris Nelson was elected chairman of the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission today, Jan. 4, 2021, at the commission’s regular meeting in Pierre, South Dakota.

Public Safety

Name Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – A Keystone, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning, Dec. 27, in a one-vehicle crash east of Keystone.

Transportation

Department of Transportation & City of Watertown Seek Public Input into Watertown Master Transportation Plan Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in cooperation with the City of Watertown, will hold an online public meeting to present information on the Watertown Area Master Transportation Plan.

Environment and Natural Resources

DENR Fines Rapid City for Surface Water Violations
The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has fined the city of Rapid City $8,045 for Surface Water Discharge Permit violations at its regional recycling and municipal landfill facility (RALF).

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Dec. 26
During the week of Dec. 20-26, a total of 602 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Revenue

Federal ruling changes odometer disclosure to be required for vehicles that are less than 20 years old
Beginning January 1, 2021, individuals will be required by a new federal rule to fill out an odometer disclosure when transferring a vehicle that is less than 20 years old and weighs less than 16,000 pounds.

Education

Take-to-Make a Clothespin Snowman Jan. 9 from Cultural Heritage Center
The South Dakota State Historical Society Museum in Pierre is switching its popular “make-and-take” Saturday Family Fun programs to “take-to-makes.”

Public Safety

South Dakota Highway Patrol Participates In New Year’s Eve Traffic Safety Coalition
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Highway Patrol is joining the Western States Traffic Safety Coalition (WSTSC) in a special effort this New Year’s Eve to reduce the number of impaired drivers on the road.

Tourism

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR ARTS FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
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 throughout the state. The application deadline is March 1, 2021.

Revenue

Disabled veterans and disabled persons will see new license plate design in 2021
Disabled veterans and disabled persons will receive newly designed license plates at renewal time, beginning January 1, 2021.

Public Safety

Name Released In Roberts County Fatal Crash
SISSETON, S.D. – A Henderson, NV man has died from injuries sustained in a one-vehicle crash on Monday, Dec. 21, south of Sisseton.

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

January Sobriety Checkpoint List Announced
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety will begin 2021 by holding 20 sobriety checkpoints in 17 counties during the month of January.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Outlines CARES Act Unemployment Extension and Implementation
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is currently reviewing the CARES Act unemployment extension provisions contained in H.R. 133 which Congress recently passed and President Donald Trump signed into law.

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – A 63-year-old man died early Sunday morning in a one-vehicle crash east of Keystone.

Public Safety

Minnehaha County Fatal Crash
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – One person died Saturday morning in a two-vehicle crash west of Sioux Falls.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Dec. 19
During the week of Dec. 13-19, a total of 696 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Governor Kristi Noem

Challenges and Opportunities: A Look Back on 2020
2020 has been a year to remember, seemingly for all the wrong reasons. COVID-19 devastated families across our country.

Foster and Lynn Friess Donate $500,000 to Charity on Behalf of Noem Family
This week, Foster and Lynn Friess donated $500,000 to charity on behalf of the Noem family. The donation includes $100,000 on behalf of each individual member of the Noem family.

Foster and Lynn Friess Donate $100,000 to Compassion Child Care on Behalf of Governor Noem
This week, Foster and Lynn Friess donated $100,000 to Compassion Child Care in Sioux Falls on behalf of Governor Kristi Noem. This is part of a $500,000 charitable donation on behalf of the entire Noem family.

Foster and Lynn Friess Donate $100,000 to Dakota Sonshine on Behalf of First Gentleman Bryon Noem
This week, Foster and Lynn Friess donated $100,000 to Dakota Sonshine in Sisseton on behalf of First Gentleman Bryon Noem. This is part of a $500,000 charitable donation on behalf of the entire Noem family.

Foster and Lynn Friess Donate $100,000 to McCrossan Boys Ranch on Behalf of Kyle and Kassidy Peters
PIERRE, S.D. – This week, Foster and Lynn Friess donated $100,000 to McCrossan Boys Ranch in Sioux Falls on behalf of Kyle and Kassidy Peters. This is part of a $500,000 charitable donation on behalf of the entire Noem family.

Foster and Lynn Friess Donate $100,000 to Teen Challenge on Behalf of Kennedy Noem
This week, Foster and Lynn Friess donated $100,000 to Teen Challenge of the Dakotas in Brookings on behalf of Kennedy Noem. This is part of a $500,000 charitable donation on behalf of the entire Noem family.

Foster and Lynn Friess Donate $100,000 to Love INC on Behalf of Booker Noem
This week, Foster and Lynn Friess donated $100,000 to Love INC in Rapid City on behalf of Booker Noem. This is part of a $500,000 charitable donation on behalf of the entire Noem family.

Health

Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Arrives in South Dakota - State Amongst Leaders in Vaccination Efforts in Nation
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health announced that the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the second to achieve FDA authorization, has been delivered statewide to all major healthcare networks and smaller regional partners.

Transportation

No Travel Advised in Eastern & South-Central SD
Officials with the South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are advising motorists there is No Travel Advised across the entire eastern and south-central portion of the state and are asking for the public’s help by staying home and avoiding travel until weather conditions improve.

Public Safety

Highway Patrol: Safe Driving Important Part of Holiday Season
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Highways Patrol reminds drivers that being safe behind the wheel is also an important part of the holiday season.

Transportation

Blue Lights Being Added to Snowplow Fleet
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is improving safety for motorists and snowplow drivers by adding flashing blue lights to the snowplow fleet across the state.

Environment and Natural Resources

Department of Agriculture and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Seeking Summer Interns and Seasonal Positions
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Department of Environment and Natural Resources are seeking to fill internship and seasonal positions for summer 2021.

Public Safety

Fire Marshal Urges Holiday Fire Safety
PIERRE, S.D. – Everybody likes the bright lights of Christmas, but South Dakota’s Fire Marshal says fire safety must also be a priority during the holiday season.

Names Released In Turner County Fatal Crash
VIBORG, S.D. – A Viborg, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died Wednesday night in a one-vehicle crash near Viborg.

Transportation

Highway 37 James River Bridge Reduced Speed
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is advising motorists driving over the newly constructed Highway 37 bridge north of Huron to expect a reduced speed limit and some “bumps” at the bridge.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s December Column – Peace on Earth
Together, let’s continue to work towards peace on earth. Our world has faced challenges of late, and there is not a better time to sit by the fireplace or the decorated tree and thank God for all we have and thank the men and women that have secured and protected our freedoms.

South Dakota Elks Association Donates Monies to Fund Flags at Medal of Honor Monuments
The South Dakota Elks Association has a long history of supporting veterans, military personnel, and their families. Thomas Adams, State President of the South Dakota Elks Association, presented the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs with a check for $800 for the Medal of Honor Monument flag fund.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order
Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed an executive order to continue to give flexibility as South Dakota fights the spread of COVID-19.

The Christmas Tree’s Promise
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. As I write this, it’s the last day of Hanukkah, Christmas is right around the corner, and the New Year comes shortly thereafter.

Education

State Historical Society puts more historic newspapers online
Several more South Dakota towns are represented in the digitized historical newspaper collections on Chronicling America, the South Dakota State Historical Society-Archives has announced.

Transportation

South Dakota Department of Transportation Launches New and Improved Traveler Information Site
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) has rolled out a new traveler information website and mobile app just in time for holiday travel and safe winter driving.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Dec. 12
During the week of Dec. 6-12, a total of 858 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Turner County Fatal Crash
VIBORG, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured Wednesday night in a one-vehicle crash near Viborg.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Providing Apprenticeship Investment Funds
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) will be providing $270,000 in investment funding to help businesses and organizations train new apprentices in Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP) in South Dakota.

Transportation

State Finalizes Sale of Sioux Valley Rail Line
The South Dakota State Railroad Board (Board) acted today (Dec. 16, 2020) to finalize the sale agreement between the South Dakota Department of Transportation (Department) and D&I Railroad Co to purchase the Sioux Valley rail line for an amount of $10 million.

Health

FDA Approved COVID-19 Vaccine Arrives in South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, the South Dakota Department of Health is announcing that all three major healthcare networks in our state: Avera, Monument and Sanford, have received their first batch of the FDA authorized, Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, Prairie Lakes in Watertown and Mobridge also received vaccine doses.

Public Safety

Expired Driver License Extension Ends Dec. 30
Dec. 30 is the deadline for people to renew their expired South Dakota driver licenses and ID cards!

Social Services

DSS provides help for the holiday blues
The holiday season can be full of joy, brightness, and happiness, but for many people it can also be a stressful, sad, or lonely time.

Corrections

State prison inmate dies
Inmate Leslie Barse, age 52, passed away at a Sioux Falls hospital Dec. 12 of natural causes.

Environment and Natural Resources

Sioux Falls Receives Honorable Mention Award for Skunk Creek Nonpoint Source Improvement Project
Today, the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announced the Sioux Falls Skunk Creek Nonpoint Source Improvement project was awarded Honorable Mention as a 2020 Performance and Innovation in the State Revolving Fund Creating Environmental Success (PISCES) by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Game, Fish and Parks

Wildlife Damage Management Strategic Plan Available for Public Comment
In May 2019, the South Dakota Governor’s Office selected the Wildlife Management Institute to conduct an independent, 10-year historical review of South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks’ comprehensive Wildlife Damage Management (WDM) program. As a result of this review and staff discussions, Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) developed a strategic plan specific to the issues of wildlife damage management and GFP is seeking input on the plan.

Transportation

New Section of Veteran’s Parkway Opening
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says Veteran’s Parkway will open to traffic between Rice Street an Interstate 90, which includes Exit 402, on Tuesday, Dec. 15.

Public Safety

Name Released In Aurora County Fatal Crash
WHITE LAKE, S.D. – A 64-year-old man from Sequim, WA died Wednesday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash near White Lake.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces Additional Small Business & Healthcare Grants
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced up to $345 million in additional grants for small businesses, non-profit organizations, and healthcare providers dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Investing in South Dakota’s Future
After yet another incredible year, South Dakota is entering 2021 in one of the strongest financial positions in the country.

Corrections

State prison inmate dies
Inmate Clayton Creek, age 55, passed away at a Sioux Falls hospital Dec. 10 of natural causes.

Education

Spencer appointed new State Historic Preservation Officer
Ted M. Spencer of Pierre has recently been appointed by Governor Kristi Noem as the new State Historic Preservation Officer for South Dakota.

Health

Free At-Home COVID-19 Testing Now Available To All South Dakota Residents
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Health, in partnership with Vault Health, Inc., is now offering convenient at-home COVID-19 testing kits, available to all South Dakota residents at no cost to them. The saliva-based test can be requested by visiting the Health Department website or by clicking HERE, and is geared towards people who have had close contact(s) with confirmed positive cases.

Housing Development

Deadline Approaching to Apply for Housing Assistance for South Dakotans Impacted by COVID-19
South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) would like to remind South Dakotans, who have been financially impacted by COVID-19 and need help paying their housing costs, that the application deadline is soon approaching.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Files Brief at U.S. Supreme Court in Important Election Integrity Case
This week, Governor Kristi Noem submitted an amicus brief to the Supreme Court of the United States in support of the petitioners in the case of Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee and in defense of fair, neutrally-applicable election laws that work to prevent voter fraud.

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem signed an executive order to give flexibility as South Dakota continues to fight the spread of COVID-19.

Education

‘Where the Wild Things Grow in South Dakota’ exhibit opens Dec. 12 at Cultural Heritage Center
The new exhibit “Where the Wild Things Grow in South Dakota” opens on Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. It will look at a few of the many South Dakota native plants used for food, medicine, and meeting spiritual needs.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Dec. 5
During the week of Nov. 29 through Dec. 5, a total of 818 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Board of Regents

Regents Review State Budget Recommendations
A recommended state budget for the coming year includes important resources for South Dakota’s public university system, including more money for employee salaries and for critical maintenance and repair of buildings.

Health

National Influenza Vaccination Week
The South Dakota Department of Health is recognizing National Influenza Vaccination Week by urging people 6 months and older to get their annual flu vaccine before the week’s end.

Labor and Regulation

Federal Unemployment Benefits Ending for Many Claimants
Many South Dakotans currently receiving unemployment benefits through programs funded by the CARES Act could be nearing the end of their weekly payments.

Public Safety

Aurora County Fatal Crash
WHITE LAKE, S.D. – A 64-year-old man died Wednesday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash near White Lake.

Highway Patrol Staff Members Receive Yearly Honor
PIERRE, S.D. – Two members of the South Dakota Highway Patrol have received the agency’s two major yearly awards.

Governor Kristi Noem

South Dakota 2020 Budget Address (as prepared for delivery)
We meet today with yet another incredible year behind us.

Public Safety

Brookings County Fatal Crash
BROOKINGS, S.D. – A 31-year-old Brookings man has died of injuries sustained in a one-vehicle crash that occurred early Saturday morning north of Brookings

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 (CCLC) grants to submit a Notice of Intent to Apply.

Board of Regents

State Education Boards to Meet Jointly
Three state education boards will meet jointly Wednesday to build on a partnership that results in more students graduating from high school, pursuing postsecondary education, and creating successful careers.

Governor Kristi Noem

Taking inspiration from the women who secured our right to vote
Today, December 4th, marks the 101st anniversary of the day South Dakota ratified the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which recognized that women have the right to vote.

Gov. Noem Orders Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
PIERRE, S.D. – 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, December 7, 2020, to honor the life of former State Senator Theresa Two Bulls.

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 2021 Deadwood Fund grant program are due on Feb. 1, 2021, for work beginning no earlier than May 1, 2021.

Black Hills Speedway images, items donated to State Historical Society
More than 4,600 negatives, slides, photographs, and other materials concerning the Black Hills Speedway in Rapid City were recently added to the South Dakota State Historical Society-Archives collections.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Nov. 28
During the week of Nov. 22-28, a total of 380 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Orders Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
PIERRE, S.D. – 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 4, 2020, to honor the life of former State Representative Milton Lakness.

Revenue

Municipal sales taxes to go unchanged
All South Dakota municipal sales tax rates will remain the same on January 1, 2021.

Environment and Natural Resources

DENR’s Big Sioux River Flood Information System Receives Honor Award for Engineering Excellence
The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is excited to announce its Big Sioux River Flood Information System (BSRFIS) received an Honor Award in the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence Awards competition.

Public Safety

Edmunds Central High School Senior Wins In Highway Safety’s Lesson Learned SD Program
PIERRE, S.D. – An Edmunds Central High School senior has won a $10,000 prize for promising to be a safe driver.

DPS Releases December Sobriety Checkpoint List
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety has released the list of counties where sobriety checkpoints are planned to be held during December.

Public Safety

Name Released In Spink County Fatal Crash
CONDE, S.D. – A 22-year-old Conde, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died early Wednesday morning in a one-vehicle crash southeast of Conde.

Corrections

Minimum-security state prison inmates placed on escape status
Inmates Seth Boocock, Corey Bales and Matthew Fritz-Chappell all left the Yankton Community Work Center without authorization shortly after 11:00 p.m. Nov. 27.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Nov. 21
During the week of Nov. 15-21, a total of 681 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Spink County Fatal Crash
CONDE, S.D. – One man died early Wednesday morning in a one-vehicle crash southeast of Conde.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces New Secretary of Education
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will appoint Tiffany Sanderson to be the next Secretary of Education.

Governor Noem Announces New Executive Director of South Dakota Housing Development Authority
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that Lorraine Polak will be appointed Executive Director of the South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA), effective January 8, 2021. Polak will replace Mark Lauseng, who is retiring.

Public Safety

Names Released In Brookings County Fatal Crash
AURORA, S.D. – An Elkton, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash that occurred Friday night south of Aurora.

Transportation

Concrete Surface Repairs on Highways 16B and 79
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work at the intersection of highways 16B and 79 will begin on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020.

Public Utilities Commission

PUC approves construction permit for Wild Springs Solar Project
The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission today approved a construction permit for the Wild Springs Solar Project to be built in Pennington County.

Public Safety

Highway Patrol Encourages Safe Driving During Thanksgiving Holiday
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Highway Patrol reminds people who are traveling this Thanksgiving holiday to do so in a safe manner.

State Fire Marshal Urges Fire Safety For Thanksgiving
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Fire Marshal encourages people to remember the importance of fire safety this Thanksgiving holiday.

Transportation

Transportation Commission Awards Economic Development Grants
The South Dakota Transportation Commission has awarded just over $4 million in economic development grants for infrastructure improvements to counties and smaller communities across South Dakota.

Interstate 90 Wildlife Fencing through Spearfish
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will be installing an eight-foot wildlife fence adjacent to Interstate 90 from Exit 8 to Exit 14 near Spearfish.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Straight Up Bison, Straight Up South Dakota
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – “Grow your company. Live your life. Achieve your dreams. We can make it happen for you right now. Because South Dakota means business.” South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s invitation was enough for Fabiola Corvera-Stimeling and her husband Douglas Stimeling, to move their e-commerce business, Straight Up Bison, from Arizona to Sioux Falls, South Dakota in October.

Governor Kristi Noem

Christmas at the Capitol Grand Lighting Ceremony
The 2020 Grand Lighting Ceremony for Christmas at the South Dakota Capitol will take place in the Capitol Rotunda on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 7 p.m. CST.

Human Services

DHS Warns of Scammers During Holiday Season
The South Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) is warning the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and their families to be aware of scammers during the holiday season.

Tourism

South Dakota Float Appears in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®
For the eleventh year, South Dakota’s “Mount Rushmore’s American Pride” float will appear in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®.

Public Safety

Brookings County Fatal Crash
AURORA, S.D. – One man has died of injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash Friday night south of Aurora.

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

Governor Kristi Noem

Thanksgiving and Personal Responsibility
Thanksgiving is around the corner, and across the country families are planning how to celebrate with their loved-ones in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health

South Dakota Reports First Flu Death of Season
Today, South Dakota reported the first influenza death of the 2020-2021 season. The death was reported in Potter County, and the individual was in the 80 to 89-year age group. To protect patient confidentiality, additional information about the deceased is not being released.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces New State Historian and Director of Historical Society
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that Ben Jones, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Education, will be taking a new position as State Historian and Director of the South Dakota State Historical Society, effective December 9, 2020.

Corrections

PUBLIC NOTICE OF HIGH RISK INMATE RELEASE
Corrections Secretary Mike Leidholt is providing notification to law enforcement and the public about the pending release of a state prison inmate.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Seeking Comments on Turkey Plan
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on a draft revision of the turkey management plan, which was last updated in 2016.

Palisades State Park Reduces Bridge Weight Limits
PIERRE, S.D. – After a routine structural inspection of the iconic 1908 bridge located at Palisades State Park near Garretson, the gross vehicle weight capacity of the bridge has been reduced to 3-tons. This new rating will exclude traditional passenger vehicle traffic over the bridge.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending Nov. 14
During the week of Nov. 8-14, a total of 442 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Codington County Fatal Crash
WATERTOWN, S.D. – One man died Wednesday night in a two-vehicle crash north of Watertown.