Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR Announces Nearly $11 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 $10,982,600 for water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste projects.

Health

Department of Health Releases Medical Cannabis Administrative Rules Draft for Public Review
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) released its proposed administrative rules to implement the medical cannabis program created by voters in Initiated Measure 26 (IM-26).

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending June 19
During the week of June 13-19, a total of 199 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Letter to the Editor: New Graduated Driver License Requirements Take Effect July 1
July 1, 2021 is an important date for drivers between the ages of 14 and 18 and their parents in South Dakota.

Transportation

Bergquist Chosen as 2021 South Dakota Transportation Hall of Honor Inductee
Former Transportation Secretary, Darin Bergquist has been chosen for induction into the South Dakota Transportation Hall of Honor for 2021.

Department of Transportation Seeks Public Input into the Black Hills Context Sensitive Corridors Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks (SDGF&P), the United States Forest Service (USFS), the United States National Park Service (USNPS), and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will hold a virtual public meeting through July 28, 2021.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s June Column – Celebrating our Independence
The Fourth of July is a celebration - a celebration of the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, one of our nation’s most cherished documents.

Board of Regents

Board of Regents Adjusts Policies for Medical Marijuana
The South Dakota Board of Regents this week adjusted its policies to account for the soon-to-be legal presence of medical marijuana in South Dakota. This comes after voters approved Initiated Measure 26 in the last general election.

West River Nursing Programs Begin Transition
Plans are underway to transition bachelor-level nursing education programs in western South Dakota from two universities to one. The recommendation comes from a state task force that spent the past year studying efficiencies within the public university system.

Neal Schnoor to Become Northern State University President
Neal H. Schnoor, the chief of staff to the president at California State University Long Beach, will become the 18th president of Northern State University, the South Dakota Board of Regents announced Tuesday.

Tourism

13 NEW PIECES PURCHASED FOR STATE ART COLLECTION
PIERRE, S.D. — The South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) announces the addition of 13 new artworks to the state art collection and Art for State Buildings program. The pieces were purchased from a dozen South Dakota artists who were selected from a pool of 54 applicants from across the state.

Transportation

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Projects Scheduled for the Sioux Falls Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says chip seal and fog seal applications will be applied to several highways in the Sioux Falls area of the state.

Highway 1806 “Singing Bridge” Construction Scheduled to Begin in July
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says that permanent repairs to the “Singing Bridge” on S.D. Highway 1806 over the Grand River are scheduled to begin in July.

S.D. Highway 50 Construction to Begin in Chamberlain in July
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work will begin on the regrade of S.D. Highway 50 in Chamberlain from Paul Gust Road to Sorenson Drive, shoulder widening from Sorenson Drive to Interstate 90, and asphalt resurfacing on S.D. Highway 50 from North Main Street to King Street.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

ATV Big Air Tour Returns to the South Dakota State Fair
The South Dakota State Fair welcomes the ATV Big Air Tour to the Fair Grandstand on Monday, September 6 at 1 PM.

Health

Department of Health Invites You to Participate in Medical Cannabis Telephone Town Hall(s)
The South Dakota Department of Health invites all interested parties to participate in two upcoming telephone town hall events

Transportation

Construction to Begin on 26th Street over Interstate 29 in Sioux Falls
Starting Monday, June 21, 2021, the South Dakota Department of Transportation says eastbound traffic across 26th Street will be reduced to one lane while bridge repairs are being competed over Interstate 29.

Overnight Road Closure Planned for S.D. Highway 20 West of South Shore to Accommodate Crane Move
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says S.D. Highway 20 will be closed between Interstate 29 and the city of South Shore during the overnight hours on Thursday, June 24.

Public Safety

Names Released In Butte County Fatal Crash
BELLE FOURCHE, S.D. — A Belle Fourche, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Wednesday afternoon in a three-vehicle crash in Belle Fourche.

Governor Kristi Noem

Happy Father’s Day to Our Founding Fathers
Father's Day is a time to celebrate all the great fathers in our lives. My kids have an awesome one in Bryon.

Public Safety

Names Released In Grant County Fatal Crash
MILBANK, S.D. — A Gary, S.D., male has been identified as the person who died Tuesday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash southeast of Milbank.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces Holiday for State Workers on Friday to Honor Juneteenth
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced a holiday for state workers on Friday, June 18, 2021, in honor of Juneteenth.

Governor Noem Launches Website for Medical Cannabis Program
Today, Governor Kristi Noem, along with the South Dakota Department of Health and the South Dakota Department of Education, launched medcannabis.sd.gov, a website to answer questions and provide information about the upcoming medical cannabis program set to take effect on July 1, 2021.

Corrections

Fire damages State Penitentiary carpentry shop
The carpentry shop at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls was damaged by fire today.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending June 12
During the week of June 6-12, a total of 266 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Butte County Fatal Crash
BELLE FOURCHE, S.D. — One person died Wednesday afternoon in a three-vehicle crash in Belle Fourche.

Social Services

Reunification with birth family main goal of foster care
The main goal of foster care through the Department of Social Services (DSS) is to safely return children to their birth family.

Transportation

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Project on Highways 85 and 34 to Start
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a chip seal and fog seal application will be applied to U.S. Highway 85 and S.D. Highway 34 in the Rapid City area beginning Monday, June 21. The chip seal will begin on Highway 85 with Highway 34 following.

Bridge Repair Work to Begin on I-90 Westbound at Brandon Exit 406
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a bridge crew will be performing work on Interstate 90 westbound at Brandon Exit 406 beginning Wednesday, June 23 through Thursday, June 24.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

General Pesticide Permit for Control of Aquatic Invasive or Nuisance Pest
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) reminds pesticide applicators they need coverage under a General Pesticide Permit to apply pesticides in water to control aquatic invasive or nuisance pests.

Public Safety

Names Released In Beadle County Fatal Crash
WOLSEY, S.D. — A Rockham, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Sunday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash south of Wolsey.

Social Services

DSS launches program to help with behavioral health costs
The Department of Social Services (DSS) recently launched the Behavioral Health Voucher Program, offering funding assistance and support for mental health and substance use services.

Transportation

Culvert Work to Begin on U.S. Highway 12 West of Grand River
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work will begin on three culverts in the west ditch of U.S. Highway 12 approximately 2.5 miles west of the Grand River on Monday, June 21.

Human Services

Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed June 15, Elder Abuse Awareness Day (EAAD) in South Dakota.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Launches Workplace Mentoring Toolkit
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) has launched a workplace mentoring toolkit available on StartTodaySD.com.

Public Safety

Grant County Fatal Crash
MILBANK, S.D. — One person died Tuesday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash southeast of Milbank.

Beadle County Fatal Crash
WOLSEY, S.D. — One person died Sunday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash south of Wolsey.

Transportation

Pilot Car Operations on U.S. Highway 14A in Boulder Canyon to Begin This Week
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will resume a milling project on U.S. Highway 14A in Boulder Canyon, between Sturgis and Deadwood on Thursday, June 17, 2021.

Veterans Affairs

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of SPC Mark Horner
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Combat Veteran SPC Mark Horner.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Furniture Mart USA Doubles Campus, Adds 300,000 Square Feet
SIOUX FALLS S.D. – Furniture Mart USA announced today that it will be nearly doubling its campus by adding 300,000 square feet to the distribution center and corporate headquarters in northern Sioux Falls.

Governor Kristi Noem

South Dakota Strong
South Dakota has the strongest economy in America. In fact, a recent study by Moody’s Analytics says that South Dakota is one of only 2 states to be in a stronger economic position than we were before the pandemic.

Education

Her Vote. Her Voice. announces winners of ‘Know Her Story’ Art, Essay Contest
As part of the Her Vote. Her Voice. women’s history project, 4th – 12th grade students participating in the “Know Her Story” contest have written an original essay or created an original piece of art about a South Dakota woman who made an impact.

Game, Fish and Parks

Roadside Mowing: Hold off until July 10
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Departments of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) and Transportation (DOT) want to remind individuals there are laws and rules governing when mowing right-of-way ditches can begin on the state highway system.

Sutton Bay Lakeside Use Area Closed June 14-18
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Department is announcing that the Sutton Bay Lakeside Use Area will be closed from June 14-18.

Transportation

Department of Transportation Seeks Public Input into the S.D. Highway 34 Reconstruction Project Near Colman
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will hold an online public meeting to inform area residents of the upcoming S.D. Highway 34 Reconstruction Project near Colman.

Bridge Work to Begin on W. 57th Street over Interstate 29 in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a bridge crew will be working on the W. 57th Street bridge over Interstate 29 beginning Wednesday, June 16 through Thursday, June 17.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces New Opportunities for South Dakota Meat
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that certain South Dakota state-inspected meat processors will have the opportunity to ship their meat across state lines.

Tourism

South Dakota Department of Tourism Wins Gold Telly Award for “Great Places are Waiting”
The South Dakota Department of Tourism was again recognized for its 2020 marketing efforts, this time winning a Gold Telly Award for its one-minute “Great Places Are Waiting” online commercial.

Education

Grant funds five out-of-school time programs
A total of five 21st Century Community Learning Center grants have been awarded to provide funding for academic enrichment opportunities for students. This year’s grant recipients join 27 existing grant recipients.

Game, Fish and Parks

Game, Fish and Parks to Sell Six Properties
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Department unveiled a plan to sell six tracts of land across the eastern part of the state as part of an evaluation effort of Game Production Areas (GPAs).

Public Safety

Names Released In Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – A Groton, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died late Friday night in a motorcycle-pickup crash north of Aberdeen.

Health

CDC COVID-19 Study Shows mRNA Vaccines Reduce Risk of Infection by 91 Percent for Fully Vaccinated People
A new CDC study finds the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna) reduce the risk of infection by 91 percent for fully vaccinated people.

Public Safety

Engine Academy and Live Fire Exercise Taking Place in Custer State Park
CUSTER, S.D. –South Dakota’s Wildland Fire Division this week is hosting its annual Engine Academy which will include a live fire training exercise within the boundaries of Custer State Park. The live fire portion of the event is expected to take place on either June 8, 9, or 10 (Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday) if fuel and weather conditions allow.

Transportation

Railroad Crossing Repair Work to Temporarily Close S.D. Highway 253
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad Company will begin railroad crossing repair work on S.D. Highway 253 directly north of U.S. 12 on Wednesday, June 9, 2021.

Construction Project Progresses on South Dakota Highway 46 East of the City of Irene
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will continue shoulder and grade construction on S.D. Highway 46 from the east side of Irene to the intersection of S.D. Highways 19 South and 19A.

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Projects Beginning in the Yankton Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says chip seal and fog seal applications will be applied to several highways throughout the Yankton Area beginning Monday, June 14, 2021.

Construction On-Ramp Closure Planned This Week at Western Avenue
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says that the southbound on-ramp at Exit 2 at Western Avenue will close in the evening of Tuesday, June 8.

Public Safety

Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – One person died late Friday night in a motorcycle-pickup crash north of Aberdeen.

Governor Kristi Noem

Arbitrary and Unlawful
There is no better place than Mount Rushmore to celebrate America’s birthday. Independence Day is the celebration of our nation and our founding principles of freedom, equality, and opportunity.

Education

New State Historical Society book explores original “Savior of Deadwood”
The latest book from the South Dakota State Historical Society, “The Savior of Deadwood: James. K. P. Miller on the Gold Frontier” by David A. Wolff, adds more layers to the history of Deadwood and its place in the “Wild West.”

New clothing exhibit to open June 12 at Cultural Heritage Center
The Museum of the South Dakota State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre will host its next new exhibit beginning Saturday, June 12.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Holds June Commission Meeting at Good Earth State Park
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission held their monthly meeting on June 3-4 at Good Earth State Park.

Transportation

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

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Governor Kristi Noem Announces 18 New Broadband Grant Awards
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem announced today that 18 new grants have been awarded to fund broadband projects that will better connect unserved and underserved areas across South Dakota.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Governor Noem Announces $5 Million for South Dakota Meat Processors
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced $5 million for small South Dakota meat processors.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending May 29
During the week of May 23-29, a total of 232 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

June Sobriety Checkpoints Announced
PIERRE, S.D. – Sobriety checkpoints will be held in 17 counties throughout South Dakota during June.

Transportation

SDDOT Seeks Public Input into the U.S. Highway 212 / Forest City Bridge Corridor and Environmental Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and the Federal Highway Administration, will hold an online public meeting to inform area residents of the beginning of the U.S. Highway 212 / Forest City Bridge Corridor and Environmental Study.

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 an online public meeting to inform area residents of the beginning of the S.D. Highway 11 Corridor Study.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Responds to Decision on Mount Rushmore Fireworks
Today, Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement in response to the District Court decision on her lawsuit against the Biden Administration over their cancellation of the Mount Rushmore Fireworks Celebration

Transportation

ADA Upgrades to Begin on U.S. Highway 212 and U.S. Highway 85 in Belle Fourche
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says ADA sidewalk upgrades on U.S. Highway 212 and U.S. Highway 85 in Belle Fourche will begin on Monday, June 7, 2021.

Corrections

Inmate Keith Apple in custody
Inmate Keith Apple was arrested in Rapid City on June 1. Apple left the Rapid City Community Work Center without authorization Nov. 7, 2020.

Education

Special education report now available online
Information regarding school districts’ performance on improving the educational outcomes of students with disabilities is now available online. The Special Education Report is released annually by June 1.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

SD Century Farm & Ranch Recognition Deadline is Aug. 9
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) and the South Dakota Farm Bureau (SDFB) are proud to continue recognizing longstanding South Dakota family farms and ranches.

Public Safety

Additional Details on Saturday Night Amber Alert
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Highway Patrol was the lead agency on Saturday night’s amber alert through parts of South Dakota. Here are additional details on the event:

Name Released In Brown County Fatal Crash
GROTON, S.D. – A Conway, Arkansas man has been identified as the person who died last Wednesday in a one-vehicle crash north of Groton.

Tourism

Celebrate 605 Day Across South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. – June 5 is more than just a day in South Dakota. It’s 605 Day! On Saturday, June 5, 2021, join the South Dakota Department of Tourism in celebrating the sixth annual 605 Day.

Transportation

Construction to Include Ramp Closure at Western Avenue
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says that the northbound off-ramp at Exit 2 at Western Avenue will close at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 2.

Public Meeting/Open House Scheduled for Herreid Master Transportation Plan
The South Dakota Department of Transportation, in collaboration with the city of Herreid, will hold a public meeting/open house on Monday, June 7, 2021, as part of the Herreid Master Transportation Plan.

Pipe/Box Culvert and Asphalt Overlay Project on S.D. Highway 22 and S.D. Highway 28 to Begin in June
The South Dakota Department of Transportation states work will begin on Monday, June 14, 2021, on a combined project which incorporates work on S.D. Highway 22 from U.S. Highway 81, to a ½ mile east of Interstate 29 and on S.D. Highway 28 from S.D. Highway 15 east to the Minnesota state line.

Revenue

New Municipal Tax Changes Effective July 1, 2021
Beginning July 1, 2021, four South Dakota communities will implement a new municipal tax rate.

Board of Regents

Higher Education Task Force Meets Thursday
A task force that is preparing a report on the operations of South Dakota public universities meets for a fifth time this week in Brookings.

Governor Kristi Noem

Remembering the Brave
As Americans, we are so blessed to live in the greatest country ever, but we are sometimes blind to the extent of those blessings.

Education

A night with American West artist Charles Russell at Cultural Heritage Center
The life and artwork of Charles M. Russell will be the focus of a June 10 program at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Tourism

SOUTH DAKOTA STUDENT WINS POETRY OUT LOUD NATIONAL FINALS
PIERRE, S.D. – Rahele Megosha, a senior at Washington High School in Sioux Falls, earned the title of Poetry Out Loud National Champion during the National Finals event webcast Thursday evening. Megosha will receive a prize of $20,000, and her school will receive $500 to purchase poetry education materials.

Transportation

Asphalt Overlay on U.S. Highway 14A in Boulder Canyon to Begin Next Week
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin a milling and asphalt overlay project on U.S. Highway 14A in Boulder Canyon, between Sturgis and Deadwood on Tuesday, June 1, 2021.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governors to DOJ: Continue Investigation into Anti-Competitive Practices in the Meatpacking Industry
Today, Governor Kristi Noem and five other governors wrote to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), asking them to continue their investigation into anti-competitive practices in the meatpacking industry.

Corrections

Inmate Cameron Guenther placed on escape status
Inmate Cameron Guenther left his community service jobsite in Sioux Falls without authorization today.

Education

State Library recognizes 21st Century School Libraries
The South Dakota State Library has announced the 2021 recipients of the 21st Century School Library Award. The 21st Century School Library Award recognizes school libraries as Effective, Enhanced or Exemplary, based on performance in three areas: place (which refers to the learning environment, both physical and online), programming and the professional.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending May 22
During the week of May 16-22, a total of 197 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

DPS Stresses Safe Driving This Memorial Day Holiday
PIERRE, S.D. — South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety wants drivers to make sure this Memorial Day holiday weekend is remembered for all the right seasons.

Brown County Fatal Crash
GROTON, S.D. – One person died early Wednesday morning in a one-vehicle crash north of Groton.

Transportation

Construction to Continue on Interstate 229 from Exit 2 at Western Avenue to Exit 1 at Louise Avenue
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says pavement repair on southbound Interstate 229 continues at Exit 2 at Western Avenue through Exit 1 at Louise Avenue in the auxiliary lane and passing lane.

Railroad Crossing Repair Work to Temporarily Close S.D. Highway 45
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad Company will begin railroad crossing repair work on S.D. Highway 45 in Ipswich on Wednesday, June 2, 2021.

Asphalt Concrete Overlay to Begin on U.S. Highway 85 Next Week
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin laying an asphalt overlay four miles south of Ludlow on U.S. Highway 85, beginning the week of May 31, 2021.

Public Safety

Names Released In Butte County Fatal Crash
NEWELL, S.D. – A Jamestown, N.D., man has been identified as the person died last Thursday in a two-vehicle crash east of Newell.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Sioux Falls, S.D. Ranks as No. 1 City in America for Young Professionals
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Sioux Falls is ranked the number one city in America for young professionals, according to a new report by SmartAsset.

Veterans Affairs

A Visit to the Cemetery
As Memorial Day approaches, it is a great time to pause and consider the true meaning of this holiday. Memorial Day represents one day of national awareness and reverence, honoring those Americans who died while defending our Nation and its values. While we should honor these heroes every day for the profound contributions they made to secure our Nation’s freedom, we should especially commemorate them and their families on Memorial Day.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Asks Board of Regents to Preserve Honest, Patriotic Education
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem asked the South Dakota Board of Regents to set policies that preserve honest, patriotic education throughout South Dakota’s institutions of higher learning.

Transportation

Construction to Begin on 26th Street over Interstate 29 in Sioux Falls
Starting Tuesday, June 1, 2021, the South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin bridge repair on 26th Street over Interstate 29.

Intersection Improvements to Begin on U.S. 14 AND S.D. 20 by Brookings and Watertown
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work will begin on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, on an intersection improvement project with locations on U.S. 14 east and west of Brookings and S.D. 20 near Watertown.

Public Safety

Butte County Fatal Crash
NEWELL, S.D. – One person died and other person was seriously injured Thursday morning in a two-vehicle crash that occurred east of Newell.

Governor Kristi Noem

Triumphs and Mistakes: Learning from Our History
The United States of America has a truly unique and wonderful history. Our nation was the first to be founded on an ideal: that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Transportation

Power Restored for Residents from Angostura Reservoir to Nebraska State Line
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says power has been restored to residents from Angostura Reservoir to the Nebraska state line.

Power Outage Impacting Residents from Angostura Reservoir to Nebraska State Line
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a powerline was accidentally put out of service during construction operations north of Oelrichs, along U.S. Highway 18 this morning. The general affected area is from the Nebraska state line to the Angostura Reservoir turnoff at Angostura Den and the surrounding vicinity. Crews have been deployed and are working on repairs.

Concrete Repair Work to Begin on U.S. Highway 12 and Roosevelt Street
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin concrete repair work at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Roosevelt Street on Monday, May 24, 2021.

Governor Kristi Noem

BFM Announces Website to Report Suspected Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
Today, the Bureau of Finance and Management announced the availability of a website for the public to report suspected fraud, waste, and abuse involving the South Dakota Small Business and Healthcare Grants that were issued by the state using the federal Coronavirus Relief Fund.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR Reminds Irrigators to Avoid Overspray
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) reminds irrigators to regularly check irrigation equipment to prevent overspray.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending May 15
During the week of May 9-15, a total of 364 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Names Released In Lawrence County Fatal Crash
STURGIS, S.D. – A Black Hawk, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Sunday afternoon in a motorcycle-vehicle crash that occurred west of Sturgis.

Tourism

ARTS COUNCIL TO HOLD SPECIAL MEETING
PIERRE, S.D. – Members of the South Dakota Arts Council, the advisory board of the state arts agency, will meet remotely via online/call-in format May 27 for a special Council meeting.

Transportation

S.D. Highway 37P Temporary Road Closure to Begin Next Week Near Springfield
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says S.D. Highway 37P (Walnut Street) into Springfield, between 14th Avenue and the Junction of S.D. Highway 37, will be closed beginning Monday, May 24, 2021.

Veterans Affairs

Memorial Day Program and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for South Dakota Veterans Cemetery
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will host a Memorial Day program and ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, May 31, 2021 at 2:00 pm (CT) at South Dakota’s first state veterans cemetery. The cemetery is located at 25965 477th Avenue in Sioux Falls (just north of 1-229/1-90 Interchange off Slip Up Creek Road and 477th Avenue).

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of Privates David and Dale Crow
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Combat Veterans PVT David Crow and PVT Dale Crow.

Transportation

SDDOT Partners with AGC and Area Contractors to Engage Youth and Families in Work Zone Awareness
Construction season is officially underway and to help raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving in work zones, the Associated General Contractors of South Dakota (AGC) and the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) recently announced the winners for the annual work zone awareness billboard campaign.

Corrections

Inmates Shawn Mills and Ronnie Wayne Moore in custody
Inmates Shawn Mills and Ronnie Wayne Moore were apprehended in Sioux Falls today.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Music Icon Bret Michaels to Play South Dakota State Fair
The South Dakota State Fair and Pioneer welcome music icon Bret Michaels to the grandstand on Friday, September 3, 2021.

Transportation

Bridge Repair to Begin on S.D. Highway 18 West of Hot Springs This Week
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin bridge repair on S.D. Highway 18 at mile marker 20.53, west of Hot Springs between Minnekahta Junction and Edgemont, on Wednesday, May 19, 2021.

Corrections

Two minimum-security inmates placed on escape status
Shawn Mills and Ronnie Wayne Moore left the Sioux Falls Community Work Center without authorization May 17.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Registration is Open for the 2021 Governor’s Agricultural Summit
Registration is now open for the 2021 South Dakota Governor’s Agricultural Summit (Ag Summit).

Registration Open for South Dakota’s Largest Classroom at the SD State Fair
Registration is now open for South Dakota’s Largest Classroom at the 2021 South Dakota State Fair.

Public Safety

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
STURGIS, S.D. – One person died and other person was seriously injured Sunday afternoon in a motorcycle-vehicle crash that occurred west of Sturgis.

Social Services

Governor Noem calls for raising mental health awareness
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month in South Dakota.

Housing Development

SDHDA Announces New Options for First-Time and Repeat Homebuyers
South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) is announcing two exciting changes that will provide both first-time and repeat homebuyers with additional opportunities to achieve their dream of buying a new home.

Public Safety

Names Released In McCook County Fatal Crash
CANISTOTA, S.D. – A Cando, N.D., woman has been identified as the person who died Tuesday night in a two-vehicle crash west of Canistota.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Appoints Spencer Hawley to Commission on Gaming
This week, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will appoint Spencer Hawley to serve on the South Dakota Commission on Gaming.

Stronger Families Together
In South Dakota, we help our neighbors. It’s just part of who we are. My parents instilled that in me at a very young age.

Education

State Historical Society awards four historic preservation grants
Historic preservation projects in Mitchell, Lake City, Hot Springs, and Pierre recently received matching grants from the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

60th Annual Resource Conservation Speech Contest Winners Announced
The 60th annual Resource Conservation Speech Contest State Finals were held at the State Capitol in Pierre on Saturday, April 24, 2021.

Game, Fish and Parks

Bush’s Landing Boat Ramp Closed, Target Date to Reopen May 28
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Department is working with a local contractor to complete an access road and extend the low-water boat ramp at Bush’s Landing on Lake Oahe, north of Pierre.

Public Safety

Interagency Wildland Fire Training Saturday in Custer State Park
CUSTER, S.D. -- Local firefighting agencies throughout South Dakota will participate in the Black Hills Wildland Interagency Training (BHWIT) this Saturday, May 15, in Custer State Park as preparation for the upcoming fire season.

Transportation

Construction to Begin on Interstate 229 in Sioux Falls from Exit 2 at Western Avenue to Exit 1 at Louise Avenue
Starting Monday, May 17, 2021, the South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin pavement repair on southbound Interstate 229 starting from Exit 2 at Western Avenue in the auxiliary lane for ½ mile.

Interstate 90, Exit 59 Westbound On-Ramp Temporary Closure Scheduled in Late May
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says the Interstate 90 westbound on-ramp at Exit 59 (N LaCrosse Street) will be closed beginning at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, to all vehicle traffic. Westbound motorists are requested to follow the detours, and use Exit 58 at Haines Avenue, as an alternate route.

Structure Replacement to Begin East of Onida
The South Dakota Department of Transportation announces that work will begin to replace a bridge east of Onida on 185th Street.

Railroad Crossing Upgrade Planned in Harrold
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says a railroad enhancement project is in the works to replace the railroad crossing on Wyman Avenue in Harrold, South Dakota.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

South Dakota State Fair Announces Changes to the Open Class Beef Show
South Dakota State Fair is making changes to the open class beef show at the 2021 State Fair.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending May 8
During the week of May 2-8, a total of 266 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation. This is an increase of 2 claims from the prior week’s total of 264.

Public Safety

Helicopter Exercise Friday at Angostura Lake
RAPID CITY, S.D.— The South Dakota Wildland Fire Division will administer an annual fire aviation certification for the South Dakota National Guard Aviation Unit at Angostura Reservoir and Recreation Area on Friday, May 14.

Transportation

Construction to Begin on Interstate 90 Exit 396 Ramp to Southbound Interstate 29
Starting Tuesday, May 18, the South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin high friction surface treatment work on Interstate 90 Exit 396 ramp to southbound Interstate 29.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Urges Secretary Buttigieg to Reconsider Essential Air Service Decision
Today, Governor Kristi Noem urged U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg to reconsider his agency’s decision regarding Essential Air Service (EAS) at the Pierre and Watertown airports.

Health

CDC Approves Emergency Use of Pfizer Vaccine for Adolescents - South Dakotan’s 12-15 Years of Age Now Qualify for Vaccine
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) announced that adolescents between the ages of 12 and 15 are now eligible to receive their COVID-19 vaccination statewide.

South Dakota Reaches Vaccination Milestone - Half of State’s Adult Population Fully Vaccinated Against COVID-19
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) announced that the adult population of residents who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 has reached the 50% threshold or over 304,435 South Dakotans having completed their full vaccine series.

Labor and Regulation

South Dakota to End Federal Pandemic Unemployment Benefits
Today, Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) announced South Dakota will terminate its participation in the federal government’s pandemic-related unemployment assistance programs.

Public Safety

McCook County Fatal Crash
CANISTOTA, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured Tuesday night in a two-vehicle crash west of Canistota.

Revenue

Department of Revenue launches new look to motor vehicle kiosks
Twenty new license renewal kiosks have been placed throughout South Dakota, now offering additional services.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governors Call on President Biden to End Border Crisis
Today, Governor Kristi Noem, along with 19 governors, called on President Biden and Vice President Harris to take immediate action on the crisis at the southern border. You can read the governors’ letter here.

Education

Former SDSHS Director Vogt to speak at Cultural Heritage Center about Historic Preservation
Historic preservation will be the focus of the May meeting of the History and Heritage Book Club. Guest speaker Jay D. Vogt of Pierre will discuss the book “Picturing the Past” at 7 p.m. CDT on Thursday, May 13.

Social Services

South Dakota kicks off Stronger Families Together
To help address the need for more foster and adoptive families for children in South Dakota, Governor Kristi Noem kicked off an ongoing recruitment initiative today called Stronger Families Together.

Tourism

SOUTH DAKOTA’S ‘HUNT THE GREATEST’ CAMPAIGN WINS BEST IN SHOW AT MINNESOTA ADVERTISING COMPETITION
The South Dakota Department of Tourism and South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department recently won Best in Show at the 2021 Minnies Media Innovation Awards.

Board of Regents

Three Recognized for Higher Education Service
The South Dakota Board of Regents has recognized the contributions of three men who served a combined 26 years as members of the board.

Governor Kristi Noem

State Departments Partner to Recruit Tourism Workers
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced the details of a new partnership between the South Dakota Departments of Tourism and Labor & Regulation (DLR) to recruit qualified candidates to fill employment vacancies within the state’s tourism industry.

Social Services

Tenth Annual National Prevention Week
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed May 9-15, 2021, as Prevention Week in South Dakota.

Board of Regents

Higher Education Task Force Meets Thursday
As it continues work on a report to be issued later this year, the task force studying operations of South Dakota public universities will meet Thursday in Sioux Falls.

Governor Kristi Noem

Strengthening South Dakota’s Workforce
South Dakota’s jobs market is booming. Our unemployment rate is the lowest in America. Businesses are moving to our state in large numbers.

Social Services

Child care providers honored for service.
Child care providers in South Dakota are being honored by the Department of Social Services (DSS) for the work they do to help support families.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending May 1
During the week of April 25-May 1, a total of 230 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation. This is a decrease of 158 claims from the prior week’s total of 388.

Board of Regents

Campus and Community Representatives to Assist in NSU Presidential Search
Campus and community representatives have been appointed to assist the South Dakota Board of Regents in its search for the next president at Northern State University.

Education

Celebrate School Lunch Hero Day May 7
May 7 is School Lunch Hero Day, a special day to celebrate the hard work and dedication of school nutrition professionals. The South Dakota Department of Education invites students, school staff, parents, and communities to thank their local school lunch and breakfast staff.

Transportation

SDDOT Seeks Public Input for Proposed Project to Reconstruct S.D. Highway 25 from U.S. Highway 212 to the Clark/Day County Line
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) is holding a virtual public meeting until Wednesday, May 26, 2021, to inform and obtain comments from area residents on the proposed project to reconstruct S.D. Highway 25 from U.S. Highway 212 to the Clark and Day county line.

Revenue

Sales and property tax refund program open to senior citizens and citizens with disabilities
South Dakota senior citizens and citizens with disabilities have until July 1 to apply for sales or property tax refunds under South Dakota’s Tax Refund Program.

Transportation

Lane Closures Planned for Interstate 229 in Sioux Falls
On behalf of Action Electric and the city of Sioux Falls, SDDOT is providing the following updates for Sioux Falls residents. Motorists should be aware that lane closures will occur along I-229 from exit 5 at East 26th Street to exit 7 at East Rice Street as crews work on the lanes nearest the barrier wall.

Board of Regents

Public Universities Mask Optional as of May 10
As South Dakota’s public universities close out spring semester this week and transition to summer operations, operational adjustments are underway. These activities coincide with the Board of Regents’ plans for a return to normal campus operations this fall.

Education

Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week and announcing Regional Teachers of the Year
Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed May 3-7 Teacher Appreciation Week in South Dakota.

Health

WIC Program Announces New Income Guidelines
The South Dakota Department of Health has released new income guidelines for the WIC Program effective May 3, 2021.

Labor and Regulation

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

Public Safety

Name Released In Custer County Fatal Crash
PRINGLE, S.D. – A Custer, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Wednesday night in a one-vehicle crash south of Pringle.

Social Services

Governor Noem honors South Dakota Foster Parents
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed May as Foster Parent Appreciation Month in South Dakota to thank foster families for all they do for children in need.

Transportation

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

Governor Kristi Noem

The Power of Travel
In South Dakota, we have so much to be proud of. Our beautiful landscapes, thriving business climate, and welcoming residents all combine to make this state truly the land of “Great Faces, Great Places.”

Governor Noem Sues Biden Administration over Mount Rushmore Fireworks
Today, Governor Kristi Noem filed a lawsuit against officials in the Biden administration over their cancellation of the Mount Rushmore Fireworks Celebration.

Education

Gov. Noem proclaims May as Archaeology & Historic Preservation Month
Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed May as Archaeology & Historic Preservation Month in South Dakota.

Plant Gnome Take-to-Make at Cultural Heritage Center on May 8
On Saturday, May 8, from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT visitors to the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre can pick up a take-to-make activity bag with the materials to create a plant gnome of their own.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Yankton Fifth Grader Wins South Dakota Arbor Day Poster Contest
Abby Johanneson, a fifth-grade student at Sacred Heart Elementary School in Yankton, is the winner of the 2021 South Dakota Arbor Day Poster Contest.

Health

SD-DOH Announces Available Grants for Mosquito Control Programs
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) today announced that cities, counties, and tribes can apply, or reapply, to obtain state grant funding to help control mosquito populations and prevent the spread of the West Nile virus (WNV). $500,000 is available for this grant program.

Public Safety

DPS Announces Sobriety Checkpoints For May
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety has released the list of sobriety checkpoints to be held during May.

Tourism

SOUTH DAKOTA ARTS COUNCIL TO MEET MAY 7
PIERRE, S.D. – Members of the South Dakota Arts Council, the advisory board of the State Arts Agency, will meet remotely via online/call-in format May 7 for the Council’s annual spring grants meeting.

Transportation

Local Bridge Replacement and Removal Project Recipients Announced
The South Dakota Transportation Commission awarded 31 local bridge replacement projects totaling approximately $20 million at their meeting in Pierre on Thursday, April 29.

Asphalt Overlay and Guardrail Replacement to Begin on U.S. Highway 14A/85 Between Deadwood and Cheyenne Crossing
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says an asphalt overlay and guardrail replacement project between Deadwood and Cheyenne Crossing on U.S. Highway 14A/85 will begin on Monday, May 10, 2021.

2021 SPRING LOAD RESTRICTIONS - PRESS RELEASE #8 (Week of May 3 - 7, 2021)
Spring Load Limit Restrictions will be REMOVED from road segments beginning on Wednesday, May 5, 2021.

Bridge Work Begins on S.D. Highway 38 in McCook County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin construction of a new bridge on S.D. Highway 38 approximately 1.5 miles east of Salem.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending April 24
During the week of April 18-24, a total of 215 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation. This is a decrease of 120 claims from the prior week’s total of 335.

Public Safety

Custer County Fatal Crash
PRINGLE, S.D. – A 67-year-old man died Wednesday night in a one-vehicle crash south of Pringle.

Names Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
RAPID CITY, S.D. – A Summerset, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died early Monday morning in a motorcycle-vehicle crash that occurred in Rapid City.

Public Safety

Name Released In Moody County Fatal Crash
COLMAN, S.D. – A Rapid City, S.D., woman has been identified as the person died Saturday night in a vehicle-pedestrian crash near Colman.

Transportation

U.S. Highway 12 Construction to Begin in Aberdeen
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is beginning the concrete repair work on U.S. Highway 12 in Aberdeen from 16th Street South to Melgaard Road.

Resurfacing Project Resumes on U.S. Highway 14 East of Pierre
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says that work will begin on Monday, May 3, 2021, on a crack, seat, and resurfacing project on U.S. 14 east of Pierre in Hughes County.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Governor Kristi Noem Announces Two Communities of the Year, Economic Development Award Winner
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that the winners of the Large and Small Community of the Year awards were Rapid City and North Sioux City, respectively.

Social Services

MEDIA ADVISORY: Stronger Families Together campaign to kick off May 11
The Department of Social Services in partnership with South Dakota Kids Belong will host a kick-off event for the Stronger Families Together campaign to support children and families in South Dakota.

Tourism

Tourism Industry Celebrates the Power of Travel During National Travel and Tourism Week
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is partnering with the U.S. Travel Association and industry partners across the state to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), May 2-8.

Transportation

Asphalt Paving Resumes on U.S. Highway 85 in Butte County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will resume asphalt resurfacing next week on U.S. Highway 85, north of Belle Fourche.

Health

Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Administration to Resume This Week in South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) announced health systems and federal retail pharmacies across the state will resume the use and administration of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccine starting today.

SD-DOH Issues Request for Proposal for Medical Marijuana Patient Registry, Verification, & Licensing System in SD
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) issued a request for proposal (RFP) (ID #2357) for a statewide patient registry, verification, and licensing system to be used in the implementation of the medical marijuana program.

Human Services

SHIINE Program Seeking Volunteers
The South Dakota Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE) program is currently seeking volunteers for all aspects of the SHIINE program.

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
RAPID CITY, S.D. – One person died early Monday morning in a motorcycle-vehicle crash that occurred in Rapid City.

Name Released In Lawrence County Fatal Crash
WHITEWOOD, S.D. – A Sturgis, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died Thursday morning in a one-vehicle crash east of Whitewood.

Transportation

SDDOT to Post Emergency Vehicle Weight Limit Signage on Interstate System
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be posting signs at 21 structures located on and directly adjacent to Interstates 90, 29, 229, and 190 due to a federal requirement. SDDOT says that new signage will be placed by April 30, 2021 to indicate the structures are now posted for Emergency Vehicle (EV) weight limits.

Public Safety

Moody County Fatal Crash
COLMAN, S.D. -- One person died Saturday night in a vehicle-pedestrian crash near Colman.

Name Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
WALL S.D. – A Wasta, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Tuesday night in a one-vehicle crash west of Wall.

Governor Kristi Noem

Joe Biden’s First 100 Days – Disunity and Partisanship
When Joe Biden was sworn in as President of the United States on January 20, 2021, he declared that “my whole soul is in this: bringing America together

Governor Noem Joins Lawsuit against President Biden over ‘Social Cost of Carbon’
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem joined Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry and 8 other state attorneys general in suing to prevent the Biden Administration from establishing a damages value to the “social cost of greenhouse gases,” which would kill thousands of American jobs and impose more burdens and harms to the American people.

Education

Life of Gov. William J. Bulow featured in “South Dakota History”
The latest issue of “South Dakota History,” the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society, includes excerpts from the autobiography of William J. Bulow, Sr., a two-term governor and United States senator.

Two retired State Historical Society staffers receive Robinson Award
Two longtime South Dakota State Historical Society staffers who retired in 2020 will be announced as winners of the prestigious Robinson Memorial Award on Saturday during the society’s annual history conference.

State Historical Society archaeology camp registration opens May 3
The South Dakota State Historical Society’s Historic Preservation Office is sponsoring a three-day archaeology camp for students going into grades 4-6 for the 2021-2022 school year.

Transportation

Interstate 29 Two-way Traffic to Begin
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews have begun construction on the northbound lanes of Interstate 29 from mile marker 224 at the Peever Exit to mile marker 239, north of Sisseton.

Education

2021 SD Workforce Education Grant recipients announced
Four South Dakota Workforce Education Grants, totaling $690,245, have been awarded to four South Dakota public school districts. In 2013, the South Dakota Legislature established the Workforce Education Fund. Part of that fund was designated to provide grants for career and technical education programs in secondary schools.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Best Management Practices Reduce Bacteria Levels in Pierre Creek
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), working together with local and federal partners successfully implemented best management practices (BMPs) along Pierre Creek to reduce E. coli bacteria levels.

Prairie Paradise Farms to Receive South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award
Today, in conjunction with Earth Day, Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources announced that Prairie Paradise Farms has been selected for the South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award®.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Asks Public to Leave Animals Alone
PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is reminding people that it is important to leave wild animals alone.

Dekker Named Brook Brown Boating Officer of the Year
PIERRE, S.D. – The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators has named Chris Dekker the 2021 Brook Brown Boating Officer of the Year. Dekker is a conservation officer for the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) and is stationed in Rapid City.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims Filed for Week Ending April 17
During the week of April 11-17, a total of 268 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation. This is a decrease of 22 claims from the prior week’s total of 290.

Public Safety

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
WHITEWOOD, S.D. – A 49-year-old woman died Thursday morning in a one-vehicle crash east of Whitewood.

Veterans Affairs

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of LCPL Flying Horse
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Combat Veteran LCPL Conrad Lee Flying Horse.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Bans Vaccine Passports in South Dakota
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2021-08, which bans government-instituted vaccine passports in South Dakota.

Health

SD-DOH Confirms Detection of the Brazil Coronavirus Variant in South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) can confirm that the P.1 variant (the ‘Brazil variant”) of COVID-19 has been detected in South Dakota.

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
WALL, S.D. -- A 31-year-old man died Tuesday night in a one-vehicle fatal crash west of Wall.

Social Services

Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday April 24
South Dakotans are encouraged to dispose of unwanted prescription drugs as part of the next DEA National Prescription Take Back Day on Saturday, April 24.

Transportation

Median and Ramp Crossover Construction on I-90 to Begin Next Week
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a project to remove an existing median crossover and construct new median and ramp crossovers will begin Monday, April 26, 2021.

SDDOT Seeks Public Input for Proposed Project to Reconstruct S.D. Highway 28 East of Lake Poinsett to Estelline
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will hold a virtual public meeting until May 19, 2021, to inform and obtain comments from area residents on the proposed project to reconstruct S.D. Highway 28 from 192nd Street east of Lake Poinsett to 1.2 miles west of Estelline.

S.D. Highway 50 Reconstruction East of Vermillion to Resume
During the week of April 26, 2021, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will resume work on S.D. Highway 50 from Interstate 29 to Vermillion.

Landslide Repair on S.D. Highway 36, East of Custer State Park to Begin This Week
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin the first phase of a two-phase project with landslide repair on S.D. Highway 36 at mile marker 41.27, east of Custer State Park, on Thursday, April 22, 2021.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s April Column – South Dakota to Dedicate First State Veterans Cemetery
It’s hard to believe that 20 months ago we broke ground for South Dakota’s first state veteran’s cemetery. The day was cold and wet, but the hearts of those in attendance were warm and full of pride knowing that we were soon going to provide and maintain a dignified final-resting place to honor all eligible veterans and dependents.

Education

State Library digitizes 41 volumes of South Dakota Historical Collections
As the South Dakota State Historical Society celebrates its 120th year, the South Dakota State Library has digitized all 41 volumes of the South Dakota Historical Collections.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Admission Passes Available for Read & Win during the South Dakota State Fair
Admission passes are now available for the Read & Win program during the 2021 South Dakota State Fair, Thursday, September 2 – Monday, September 6.

Health

Health Systems and Department of Health Urge COVID Vaccination
Today in a united front, Avera Health, Monument Health and Sanford Health systems joined with the South Dakota Department of Health to encourage residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Outlines Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Eligibility Extensions
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) has reviewed guidance provided by the U.S. Department of Labor to expand Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) eligibility.

Public Safety

State, Local Officials Complete Schroeder Fire Investigation
PIERRE, S.D. – A debris/slash pile is thought to be the origin of the Schroeder Fire that burned 2,224 acres west of Rapid City in late March.

Transportation

Traffic Signal Project to Begin in Mitchell
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work for the installation of traffic lights and signals will begin on Monday, April 26, 2021.

SDDOT Promotes 2021 Work Zone Awareness Week: Drive Safe. Work Safe. Save Lives.
National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) is a national public awareness campaign designed to spread the vital message that we are all responsible for work zone safety

Housing Development

SDHDA Seeking Applicants for the 2021 Emergency Solutions Grants Program
South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) is seeking applicants for the Emergency Solutions Grants Program.