Governor Kristi Noem

Why Putting America First Matters to South Dakota
In his first hours in office just over one year ago, President Joe Biden canceled the Keystone XL pipeline and delivered a severe blow to South Dakota families and American energy independence. A few months later, President Biden opened the door for the construction of a Russian pipeline, delivering a costly gift to a dangerous adversary.

Education

State Historical Society awards seven historic preservation grants
Historic preservation projects in Burke, Miller, Pierre, Tabor, Mitchell, Yankton, and Aberdeen recently received matching grants from the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Facebook Live event from State Historical Society Museum coming Feb. 11
Join South Dakota State Historical Society Museum Curator of Collections Katy Schmidt for a virtual walk-through of the Cultural Heritage Center exhibit “South Dakota’s Wardrobe: Selected Pieces from the Collection” on Friday, Feb. 11, at 11 a.m. CST (10 a.m. MST).

Health

DOH Statewide Distribution of Free COVID-19 Tests Continues
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) continued its operations to distribute one million Flowflex® COVID-19 Antigen home tests to sites across the state.

Public Safety

Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
PARKSTON, S.D. – One person died Thursday night in a one-vehicle crash east of Parkston.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Announces Tax Cut Legislation
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced legislation to eliminate taxes and fees associated with starting or renewing a business and obtaining a concealed carry permit in South Dakota.

Gov. Noem Announces Vaccine Exemption Legislation
Today, Governor Kristi Noem filed legislation to guarantee medical or religious exemptions from COVID-19 vaccines for private employees who are facing private employer vaccine mandates. The bill also recognizes natural immunity.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR Seeks Comments on Waterbody Report and National 303(d) Program Vision
The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is seeking public comments on the draft 2022 Integrated Report for Surface Water Quality Assessment (Integrated Report).

Public Safety

Names Released In Moody County Fatal Crash
FLANDREAU, S.D. – A White, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Monday morning west of Flandreau.

Board of Regents

Sodexo Selected to Provide Food Service for Public Universities
In an effort to reduce costs by moving to a system-wide food service provider, the South Dakota Board of Regents issued a request for proposals (RFP) and Sodexo was chosen from the three responding vendors. Sodexo is a leader in food services and facilities management.

Tourism

South Dakota Great Finds Passport Launched for Residents and Visitors
The South Dakota Department of Tourism announced the launch of a free South Dakota Great Finds mobile exclusive pass that highlights all areas of South Dakota.

Board of Regents

​Stork Retires from Board of Regents’ Service
The South Dakota Board of Regents announced today that Barb Stork of Dakota Dunes has retired from her position on the board.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s January Column – Honoring our Prisoners of War and Those Missing in Action
Earlier this month, veterans gathered in Pierre for the dedication and unveiling of the POW/MIA chair of honor. The chair, donated by Rolling Thunder Inc. Chapter 2 of Brookings, is located on the west wing of the second floor at the South Dakota Capitol.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Appoints Jarrod Johnson as Interim Commissioner of School and Public Lands
Today, Governor Kristi Noem appointed Jarrod Johnson as Interim Commissioner of School and Public Lands, effective February 1, 2022.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Makes Statement on Ravnsborg Investigative File
Today, Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement in response to multiple news agencies requesting that she release the investigative file into the fatal crash involving Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg and the late Mr. Joseph Boever.

State Secures New Plane, Reverts Savings to General Fund
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that the state has taken possession of a 2015 King Air 350 after an extensive, nationwide search.

Public Safety

Moody County Fatal Crash
FLANDREAU, S.D. – One person died and three others were injured in a two-vehicle crash Monday morning west of Flandreau.

Name Released In Roberts County Fatal Crash
SUMMIT, S.D. – A Sisseton, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died late Wednesday night in a one-vehicle crash northeast of Summit.

Social Services

Stronger Families Together making an impact
Governor Kristi Noem’s initiative to recruit 300 new foster families in South Dakota is more than halfway to its goal.

Transportation

SDDOT and City of Mitchell Seek Public Input into Mitchell Master Transportation Plan Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in conjunction with the city of Mitchell, will hold a public meeting to present information on the Mitchell Master Transportation Plan.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Announces Two Pro-Life Bills
Today, as tens of thousands of pro-life Americans participate in the annual March for Life in Washington, DC, Governor Kristi Noem announced the text of two pro-life bills to protect unborn lives.

In South Dakota, we protect life
It is no mistake that when Thomas Jefferson declared all men are endowed with the “right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” LIFE came first. The Constitution clearly delegates defending the lives and safety of the people to the government as its chief role. That includes defending the rights and the lives of unborn children.

Education

Department of Education releases federal funding transparency dashboard
The South Dakota Department of Education has developed an online dashboard displaying how school districts and other education providers are using federal COVID-19 relief funds. The dashboard is a simple tool for the public to view how much districts have received, what has been budgeted for, the time available for using the funds, and the work that has been completed to date.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR Accepting Applications to Increase Access to Local Foods at Schools
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is pleased to announce $80,000 in funding to help school districts use more local and fresh foods.

Health

Department of Health Begins Statewide Distribution of One Million Free COVID-19 Tests
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) began operations to promptly and efficiently distribute one million Flowflex® COVID-19 antigen home tests to sites across the state.

Tourism

Tourism Professionals Awarded at Governor’s Conference on Tourism
On Thursday, January 20, the Department of Tourism honored tourism professionals and businesses from across South Dakota for their loyalty, commitment, and passion for the state’s tourism industry.

Governor Noem Announces 2022 Student Art Exhibition
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem announced 12 students who are being recognized for their artistic talents through the Governor’s Student Art Competition. An exhibition of the artwork is now open to the public in the South Dakota Capitol building.

Transportation

SDDOT Seeks Public Input into I-229 Exit 6 (10th Street) Interchange Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the city of Sioux Falls, the Sioux Falls MPO, and the Federal Highway Administration, will hold a public open house meeting from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022, at Lincoln High School (2900 South Cliff Ave.) to inform area residents of the beginning of the Interstate 229 Exit 6 Interchange Modification Study.

Public Safety

Roberts County Fatal Crash
SUMMIT, S.D. – One man died late Wednesday night in a one-vehicle crash northeast of Summit.

Transportation

SDDOT Seeks Public Input for S.D. Highway 11 Corridor Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the city of Brandon, city of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, Sioux Falls MPO, and the Federal Highway Administration, will hold a public open house at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2021, at the Holiday Inn Express Convention Center (1103 North Splitrock Boulevard) in Brandon to gather feedback on the preliminary S.D. Highway 11 Corridor Study’s improvement concepts developed to date.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

ROYAL CANIN AWARDED FUNDS FOR EXPANSION, NEW PRODUCTION LINE
PIERRE, SD – The Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) announced that global leader in pet health nutrition, Royal Canin, will invest $185 million for new production lines

Tourism

2021 Visitor Spending in South Dakota Sets All Time Record
Visitor spending in South Dakota set an all-time record in 2021.

Game, Fish and Parks

Wildlife Diversity Small Grant Proposals Being Accepted
South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks (GFP) Wildlife Diversity Program is accepting proposals for the Wildlife Diversity Small Grants Program.

Public Safety

Written CDL License Tests to be Offered Saturday at DL Exam Stations
PIERRE, S.D. – People wanting to take the written tests required to obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL), before new federal regulations take effect, can do so this Saturday, Jan. 22, at several driver exam stations statewide. This opportunity is being provided by the state Driver Licensing Program.

Tourism

New Officers Elected to Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has selected its officers for 2022-2024.

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 2023.

Transportation

SDDOT Provides John C. Waldron Memorial Bridge Project Update
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says the John C. Waldron Memorial Bridge project schedule is being revised.

Revenue

The Department of Revenue transitions to new Aberdeen office
Beginning January 18, the Department of Revenue reopens their Aberdeen Office to individuals and businesses who have any tax related questions at their new location.

Public Safety

Name Released In Stanley County Fatal Crash
FORT PIERRE, S.D. – A Hot Springs, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died Friday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Fort Pierre.

Governor Kristi Noem

Fairness in Girls’ Sports Matters
This week, the 2022 legislative session kicked off, and I presented my State of the State address to the people of South Dakota. I described how South Dakota is stronger than it has ever been in its 133-year history. This did not happen because of what government did. It happened because of what government did NOT do. To preserve what we have and grow even stronger, we need to remember why government exists in the first place – to protect the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Corrections

State prison inmate placed on escape status
Inmate Jerald Brown left the Rapid City Community Work Center to go to his work release job Jan. 13. He failed to return to the Work Center at the appointed time.

Education

Cultural Heritage Center Jan. 20 program discussing Rural America in the 1950s
Participants in the Jan. 20 book talk at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre will get a glimpse of what it was like to grow up in Rural America in the 1950s.

Game, Fish and Parks

Explore Year-Round Fun Outdoors in 2022
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is hosting a year-round activity with chances to win prizes for going outside and playing BINGO in 2022.

Public Safety

Stanley County Fatal Crash
FORT PIERRE, S.D. – One woman died Friday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Fort Pierre.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Responds to SCOTUS Blocking OSHA Vaccine Mandate
Today Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement in response to the United States Supreme Court blocking the OSHA vaccine mandate:

Education

Make a difference in your community: Sponsor a Summer Food Service Program
The South Dakota Department of Education’s division of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking local sponsors to assist with running a federally funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Proposes Lake Vermillion Boat Ramp Change
The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks is proposing to include the boat ramp on the south east side of Lake Vermillion to be within Lake Vermillion Recreation Area.

Governor Kristi Noem

2022 State of the State
I am proud to report that the state of our state is stronger than it has ever been in our 133-year history.

Corrections

Precision machining program launching at Women’s Prison
A pilot program for female inmates to earn a precision machining certificate starts this spring semester at the Women’s Prison in Pierre.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Announces Legislation Blocking Action Civics
Today, Governor Kristi Noem released the text of draft legislation to block Action Civics as the basis of education for South Dakota students.

Education

South Dakota teachers, school counselors go above and beyond with professional certifications
Twelve South Dakota teachers and school counselors earned or renewed national certifications in 2021, demonstrating advanced knowledge and skill in their professions.

Game, Fish and Parks

Funding Available for Trails
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) announced today that applications are being accepted for grants from the Recreational Trails Program (RTP).

Tourism

South Dakota Tourism Releases Marketing RFP
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is requesting proposals from qualified agencies that provide professional marketing and advertising services.

Transportation

SDDOT Secretary Joel Jundt Named to National Transportation Research Board
Joel Jundt, South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) Secretary, will officially be welcomed as a new board member for the Transportation Research Board (TRB) during the upcoming organizational annual meeting.

Governor Kristi Noem

God bless the 235th MPC
On January 5th, I joined several state and local officials for a deployment ceremony honoring the 235th Military Policy Company. The unit from the South Dakota National Guard is heading to Guantanamo Bay for a challenging operational mission.

Education

State Historical Society board approves 14 property tax moratorium applications
The South Dakota State Historical Society board of trustees recently approved 14 applications in five counties for the eight-year state historic preservation property tax moratorium for restoration and rehabilitation made to historic buildings.

Health

Department of Health Makes an Additional One Million Free COVID-19 Tests Available to State Residents
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) announced it has procured one million Flowflex® COVID-19 Antigen home tests.

Public Safety

Registration Open For 2022 South Dakota Wildland Fire Academy
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Registration is now open for the 2022 South Dakota Wildland Fire Academy, which is March 24-27 in Ft. Pierre, S.D. and is hosted by the State Wildland Fire Division with assistance from its federal partners.

Governor Kristi Noem

Pro-Life Rule Blocking Telemedicine Abortions Approved
Today, Governor Kristi Noem and the Department of Health’s rule blocking telemedicine abortions was approved by the South Dakota Legislature’s Interim Rules Review Committee.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR Announces More Than $22 Million for Statewide Environmental Projects
Today, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) announced the Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved $22,527,735 in grants and loans for drinking water, wastewater, and solid waste projects.

Transportation

Rothschadl Named to SDDOT Yankton Area Engineer Position
Greg Rothschadl, a 31-year veteran of the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), recently assumed new duties as the Yankton Area Engineer.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Commission Holds January Meeting
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission held their January meeting at the Matthews Training Center in Pierre on Jan. 4-5.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Statement on Anticompetitive Practices in Meat Packing
Today, Governor Kristi Noem released the following statement regarding anticompetitive practices in the meat packing industry:

Public Safety

DPS Announces January Sobriety Checkpoints
PIERRE, S.D. – A new year means another year of sobriety checkpoints held in South Dakota as a way to discourage people from drinking and then driving.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Launches Go Outdoors South Dakota, the Combined Licensing and Park Reservation System
The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) launched a new e-commerce system, Go Outdoors South Dakota.

Social Services

January Mental Health Memo: New Year. Skills for the job of living
To support your well-being, check in with your “jobs of living” as you begin the new year.

Transportation

SDDOT Announces Snowplow Naming Contest Winners
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) rolled out the 2nd Annual Name the Snowplow Contest in November. The contest was designed to engage people across the state with the SDDOT in a fun way while providing safety information to assist the traveling public during winter weather.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Signs Cleanup Executive Order
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2021-16, which rescinds certain executive orders, corrects previous orders to refer to the proper state agencies, and modifies timelines.

Corrections

Inmate Alexander Cook back in custody
Inmate Alexander Cook was apprehended in Rapid City Dec. 29.

Public Safety

Written CDL License Tests to be Offered Jan. 8 in Sioux Falls
PIERRE, S.D. – People wanting to take the written tests required to obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL), before new federal regulations take effect, can do so on Saturday, Jan. 8, in Sioux Falls. The opportunity is being provided by the state Driver Licensing Program.

Corrections

State prison inmate placed on escape status
Inmate Alexander Cook failed to return to the Rapid City Community Work Center following his work release shift Dec. 27.

Labor and Regulation

State Minimum Wage to Increase Jan. 1
The state minimum wage will increase from $9.45/hour to $9.95/hour effective Jan. 1, 2022.

Corrections

State prison inmate Dennis Most dies
Inmate Dennis Most, age 71, passed away in a comfort care setting at the Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield Dec. 26.

Public Safety

Ketterling Named New Highway Patrol Assistant Superintendent
PIERRE, S.D. – A 21-year veteran of the South Dakota Highway Patrol has been selected as the Patrol’s newest assistant superintendent.

Game, Fish and Parks

South Dakota State Parks Celebrate The New Year
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) will offer free, guided hikes in six state parks on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states.

Social Services

Stronger Families Together for the Holidays
Sharing the joy of the holiday season can mean even more by choosing to become a foster or adoptive family for a child in South Dakota.

Transportation

South Dakota State Agencies Launch Updated South Dakota Truck Info Website
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (DOT), in collaboration with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS) and South Dakota Department of Revenue (DOR), officially launched a major update to the SD Truck Info website.

Governor Kristi Noem

BFM Releases 2021 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
Today, the Bureau of Finance and Management (BFM) released South Dakota’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for fiscal year 2021. The ACFR is the audited financial statements for state government.

Game, Fish and Parks

South Dakota Snowmobile Trails Open Officials Remind Riders Many Portions of Those Trails Are Closed To ATV Use
The official start of the Black Hills snowmobile season began on Dec. 15, with the opening of the trails system there.

Health

First COVID-19 Omicron Variant Case Detected in South Dakota
First COVID-19 Omicron Variant Case Detected in South Dakota

Corrections

State prison inmate back in custody
Inmate Paul Standing Crow Beck was arrested Dec. 21 and is currently in the Pennington County Jail.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Announces Legislation Blocking Critical Race Theory
Today, Governor Kristi Noem released the text of draft legislation to block Critical Race Theory (CRT) as the basis of education for South Dakota students.

Corrections

State prison inmate placed on escape status
Inmate Paul Standing Crow Beck left his work release job site in Rapid City Dec. 19 without authorization.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Seeking Additional Public Input on Spring Creek Country Club Use
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Department is seeking additional public input on the future development and use of the Spring Creek Country Club near Canton (Harrisburg).

Chronic Wasting Disease Detected in New Area
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) was recently confirmed in a new area in central South Dakota.

Public Safety

Safe Driving A Priority During Holidays
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety reminds people to make safe driving a priority during this holiday season.

Transportation

Transportation Commission Awards Economic Development Grants
The South Dakota Transportation Commission awarded over $3.9 million in economic development grants for infrastructure improvements to counties and smaller communities across South Dakota.

Governor Kristi Noem

That won’t happen here
For generations, South Dakotans have held true to the values that make our state a special place to call home. I spend every day working to keep South Dakota a special place to live and strengthen it for the future. By doing so, South Dakota sets an example for the nation.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s December Column – Happy Holidays
Happy Holidays

Health

South Dakota Reports First Flu Death of Season
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health reported the first influenza death of the 2021-2022 season.

Social Services

Recognizing signs of depression key to treating it
Depression is one of the most common mood disorders in the United States, affecting thousands of South Dakotans each year.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

South Dakota Broadband Development Program Applications Available
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development today announced the opening of another round of applications for the ConnectSD broadband grant program, continuing Governor Kristi Noem’s commitment to securing high-speed broadband for all South Dakotans.

Tourism

South Dakota Businesses Recognized for Outstanding Customer Service
The South Dakota Department of Tourism has recognized 27 businesses across the state for the 2021 South Dakota Great Place designation. These tourism-focused businesses earned the designation for their outstanding hospitality and customer service.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

North Sioux City Economic Development Corporation awarded funds for new industrial park, housing development
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development announced that North Sioux City Economic Development Corporation has been approved for a $10,500,000 REDI (Revolving Economic Development & Initiative) loan and a $500,000 LIIP (Local Infrastructure Improvement Program) grant.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Announces Fairness in Girls’ Sports Legislation
Today, Governor Kristi Noem released the text of legislation to defend fairness in girls’ sports at both the K-12 and collegiate level. This legislation will codify Governor Noem’s executive orders and extend further protections to women and girls.

Bureau of Administration

BOA Releases FY2021 Obligation Recovery Center Annual Report
Pierre, SD — The Bureau of Administration, which oversees the Obligation Recovery Center (the Center) for the state, has released the FY2021 Annual Report.

Game, Fish and Parks

Game, Fish and Parks Accepting Proposals for Spring Creek Restaurant Concession Operator
According to the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP), entrepreneurs interested in operating a restaurant located within Spring Creek Recreation Area in central South Dakota can now begin submitting their proposals.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Announces Bill to Restore Protections for Prayer in Schools
Today, Governor Kristi Noem released the text of legislation to restore protections for prayer in schools. This bill will guarantee an opportunity to pray in schools at the start of every school day.

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 2022 Deadwood Fund grant program are due on Feb. 1, 2022, for work beginning no earlier than May 1, 2022.

Governor Kristi Noem

Health Secretary Kim Malsam-Rysdon to Join Private Sector
Today, South Dakota Secretary of Health Kim Malsam-Rysdon announced that she will be departing from the Noem Administration to join the private sector

Budgeting for the future
This week, I outlined my budget recommendations for how we will run our state in the next fiscal year. The past year has brought historic challenges. South Dakota has taken those challenges in stride and has come out stronger.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Commission Holds December Meeting
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission held their December meeting at Brookings' McCrory Gardens.

Labor and Regulation

UpSkill Programs Offer Certificates in High-Demand Fields
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) and Board of Technical Education are partnering to provide eligible individuals occupational skills training through the state’s four technical colleges. The deadline to apply is Dec. 30, 2021.

Transportation

SDDOT Seeks Public Input into Union County Master Transportation Plan Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with Union County and the Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council (SIMPCO) will hold a public meeting open house to present the findings of the study conducted to develop the Union County Master Transportation Plan and receive public input.

Social Services

Grants available to child care providers
Grants to assist child care providers licensed and registered with the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) will soon be available, Governor Kristi Noem announced this week.

Tourism

On The Rise - 2022 South Dakota Governor's Conference on Tourism
Online registration for the 2022 Governor’s Conference on Tourism is open. The annual conference will take place January 18-20, 2022 in Pierre, S.D. The South Dakota Department of Tourism is encouraging anyone interested in tourism, marketing or hospitality to join.

Board of Regents

South Dakota Public Higher Education Drives $2.1 Billion of State’s Economy Sustains More Than 12,000 Jobs
Across six universities, South Dakota public higher education institutions generated a total impact on the state’s economy of more than $2.1 billion in Fiscal Year 2019, according to an economic contribution analysis released today. The study further concludes that the economic activity of the public university system supported or sustained 12,354 jobs throughout the state.

Health

National Influenza Vaccination Week Observed December 5-11, 2021
The South Dakota Department of Health is recognizing National Influenza Vaccination Week by inviting all South Dakotans (6 months or older) to get their annual flu vaccine before the week’s end.

Public Safety

Name Released In Sully County Fatal Crash
PIERRE, S.D. – An Aberdeen, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died in a one-vehicle crash that occurred Friday, Nov. 26, north of Pierre.

Governor Kristi Noem

ICYMI: Gov. Noem Delivers 2021 Budget Address
Today, Governor Kristi Noem delivered her 2021 Budget Address. The Address included Governor Noem’s recommendations for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2022 and Fiscal Year 2023. You can watch the full Budget Address here.

Gov. Noem's 2021 Budget Address
Lieutenant Governor Rhoden, Mr. Speaker, members of the House and Senate, and my fellow South Dakotans.

Governor Noem Files Appeal Brief in Planned Parenthood v. Noem
On Friday December 3, Governor Kristi Noem filed her appeal brief in the Planned Parenthood v. Noem litigation, which she has appealed to the United States 8th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Public Safety

McCook County Fatal Crash
SALEM, S.D. – Two people died Tuesday morning in a two-vehicle crash east of Salem.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Announces Themes of 2021 Budget Address
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced the primary themes of her 2021 Budget Address:

Corrections

Inmate Durke Pace dies
Inmate Durke Pace, age 65, passed away at a Sioux Falls hospital Dec. 6 of natural causes.

Governor Kristi Noem

American Legislative Exchange Council Ranks Governor Noem Best Governor in the Nation
Today, the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) announced that Governor Kristi Noem is ranked the best governor in America for 2021. In accepting the award, Governor Kristi issued the following statement:

Caught in a Self-Inflicted Energy Crisis
The United States faces a federal-government-created energy crisis, and South Dakota is caught in the middle of it. Gas prices continue to rise, driving up the cost of shipping and making it more expensive to visit loved ones over the holidays. As we enter the winter season, Americans are outraged by the rising cost to heat their homes.

Labor and Regulation

ACA Health Insurance Open Enrollment Deadlines Approach
The South Dakota Division of Insurance reminds consumers the Affordable Care Act (ACA) open enrollment period for 2022 coverage runs from Nov. 1, 2021, to Jan. 15, 2022, for consumers with individual policies.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order to Extend Flexibility in Hay Hauling
Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2021-15, extending the timeframe during which hay haulers may move hay through February 2022.

South Dakota Ranked Top-5 in “Freedom in the 50 States”
Today, the CATO Institute announced that South Dakota is now ranked in the top-five states in their “Freedom in the 50 States” index.

Social Services

December Mental Health Memo: Weathering the Holiday Season
The month of December is supposed to be a time for excitement and holiday cheer. There are family gatherings, decorating for Christmas, and reflecting on the things (people) for which we are grateful.

Revenue

Changes in municipal taxes for the towns of Lane and Henry effective January 1, 2022
Beginning January 1, 2022, the town of Lane is implementing a new municipal tax rate from 0 percent general sales and use tax rate to 2 percent.

Education

Up to $250,000 in grant funding available for qualified afterschool programs
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.

South Dakota Community Foundation supports State Historical Society’s Pioneer Girl Project
With funding support from the South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), the South Dakota Historical Society Press released its third Pioneer Girl Project publication.

State Historical Society digitizes important suffrage papers
More than 3,765 women’s suffrage items from the John A. and Alice Pickler Papers are now available on the South Dakota Digital Archives of the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Game, Fish and Parks

Custer State Park's Playhouse Road to Close for Construction
Beginning Wednesday, Dec. 8, Custer State Park's Playhouse Road will be closed to all through traffic for a bridge replacement.

Good Earth To Host Open House Meetings on Spring Creek Golf Course Acquisition
The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) will host two open house meetings to collect input on recreational development of Spring Creek Country Club.

Public Safety

Name Released In Codington County Fatal Crash
FLORENCE, S.D. – A Florence, S.D., male has been identified as the person who died Friday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash south of Florence.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Nominations now open for 2022 Governor’s Ag Ambassador Award
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is seeking nominations for the 2022 South Dakota Governor’s Ag Ambassador Award.

Public Safety

Sobriety Checkpoints Announced for December
PIERRE, S.D. – Sixteen sobriety checkpoints in 12 counties are planned statewide during December, according to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Social Services

More adoptive families needed for older children, siblings, and children with special needs
More adoptive families are needed for older children, sibling groups, and children who require specialized parenting for medical, developmental or emotional needs throughout South Dakota.

Transportation

Concrete Pavement Repair Work Begins on S.D. Highway 115 Between Dell Rapids and Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says work is scheduled to begin on S.D. Highway 115 south of Dell Rapids. The project consists of concrete pavement repair between Dell Rapids and Sioux Falls. Work will include sawing and removing broken concrete and replacing it.

Public Safety

Codington County Fatal Crash
FLORENCE, S.D. – A 16-year-old male died Friday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash south of Florence.

Name Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
BOX ELDER, S.D. – A Box Elder, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died last Saturday, Nov. 20, in a one-vehicle crash east of Box Elder.

Governor Kristi Noem

Help Wanted? Try These Resources
It’s the holiday season 2021 and—just about everywhere you look—businesses are hiring. “Help Wanted” signs dot store windows in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and all points in-between. For the past two months, the South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation has posted between 20,000 and 31,000 active jobs on their (DLR) website. That’s good news for our state as unemployment numbers remain well below the national average.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Responds to Supreme Court Decision on Amendment A
Today, Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s decision regarding Amendment A:

Gov. Noem Announces Department of Corrections Staffing Changes
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced several staffing changes at the South Dakota Department of Corrections (DOC). Doug Clark, Deputy Secretary of Corrections and Acting Warden of the State Penitentiary, will be the new Interim Secretary of Corrections. Interim Secretary Tim Reisch will be stepping down, effective December 8.

Health

Department of Health on Constitutional Amendment A Ruling Marijuana Legalization Initiative
Following the South Dakota Supreme Court ruling on Amendment A, the South Dakota Department of Health released the following statement:

Transportation

SDDOT Seeks Public Input into Interstate 29 (Exit 71) Interchange Modification Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with Lincoln County, the city of Harrisburg, city of Tea, the Sioux Falls MPO, and the Federal Highway Administration, will hold a public open house meeting from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021 in the Council Room of the Tea City Hall (600 E 1st Street) to inform area residents of the status of the Interstate 29 (exit 71) Interchange Modification Study.

Tribal Relations

Secretary Flute assures tribes MedCannabis program will continue
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Secretary David Flute issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s decision regarding Amendment A:

Education

‘South Dakota History’ explores historic preservation in Vermillion, Mitchell, Rapid City
The annual historic preservation issue of “South Dakota History,” the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society, focuses on libraries, observatories, and how the landscapes surrounding Rapid City have shaped its development.

Health

Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 Booster Doses Now Approved for All U.S. Adults
Last Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded eligibility of Pfizer and Moderna booster shots to cover all U.S. adults (18 plus). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also recommended this new guidance. The South Dakota Department of Health released the following statement:

Public Safety

Highway Patrol Encourages Safe Holiday Driving
PIERRE, S.D. – With more people traveling this week for the Thanksgiving Holiday, the South Dakota Highway Patrol reminds drivers that it is even more important to stay safe.

State Fire Marshal: Fire Safety A Must For Thanksgiving
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Fire Marshal reminds citizens to enjoy the good food and activity that are part of the Thanksgiving holiday, but not to forget the importance of fire safety.

Transportation

SDDOT Extends Public Input on Proposed Project to Reconstruct S.D. Highway 46 through city of Wagner
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) held a public meeting on Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021 to discuss the proposed project to reconstruct S.D. Highway 46 through the city of Wagner.

S.D. Highway 52 Opened to Thru Traffic between S.D. Highways 37 and 50
South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) officials advise the reconstruction project on S.D. Highway 52, from S.D. Highway 37 to the S.D. Highway 50 junction, is complete and the roadway is now open to thru traffic.

SDDOT Seeks Public Input into Proposed Grading Project on S.D. Highway 21 South of Hayti
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will hold a public meeting open house on Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. to inform area residents of the proposed Grading Project on S.D. Highway 21 south of Hayti.

Board of Regents

Survey Shows Students Need Help Completing FAFSA
Paying for college is challenging, but receiving some financial aid can ease the burden on students and families.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Kristi Noem Issues Statement Honoring Marcella LeBeau
As a proud member of the Lakota, Wigmunke Waste Win (Pretty Rainbow Woman) served both her community and her country as a member of the Greatest Generation. Her service as a nurse during World War II has been chronicled by historians. Her dedication as a nurse in the Indian Health Services for more than 30 years has left a legacy that will live in our hearts and minds forever.

Gov. Noem to Host Christmas At The Capitol Tree-Lighting Ceremony
Governor Kristi Noem will host the 2021 Grand Lighting Ceremony for Christmas at the South Dakota Capitol in the Rotunda on Tuesday, Nov. 23, at 7:30 p.m.

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
BOX ELDER, S.D. – One person died early Saturday morning in a one-vehicle crash east of Box Elder.

Transportation

SDDOT Receives Federal RAISE Grant for Freight Capacity Expansion
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) was recently awarded a Rebuilding America Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation.