Public Safety

Names Released In Jones County Fatal Crash
MURDO, S.D. – A 26-year-old woman has been identified as the person who died last Thursday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash west of Murdo.

Names Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
NEW UNDERWOOD, S.D. — A 15-year-old Rapid City female has been identified as the person who died in a one-vehicle crash Saturday night east of New Underwood.

Names Released In Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
FREEMAN, S.D. – Two Norfolk, NE residents have died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021 north of Freeman.

Social Services

Materials available to help spread awareness about preventing suicide
During Suicide Prevention Month, the Department of Social Services (DSS) is sharing tools for communities to use in the prevention of suicide. Materials to raise awareness of suicide prevention in your community are available for anyone to order through DSS. Toolkits and campaign materials are also available for diverse populations including Native Americans, LGBTQ, and Veterans.

Transportation

Interstate 29 Crossroad Improvements Scheduled in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says improvements are scheduled for 319th Street where the road crosses over Interstate 29 at mile marker 24. Work will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2021.

Public Safety

Names Released In Grant County Fatal Crash
MILBANK, S.D. — A Sioux Falls, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died in a two-vehicle crash that occurred Friday afternoon south of Milbank.

Revenue

Tax collections bouncing back at 2021 South Dakota State Fair
Tax collections from the 2021 South Dakota State Fair were $211,651.05 according to figures released by the South Dakota Department of Revenue.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem and Republican Governors Call on President Biden to Change Failed Border Policy
Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 25 other Republican governors wrote to President Biden, urging him to change his failed border policy.

Gov. Kristi Noem to Delay Social Studies Standards
Governor Kristi Noem has directed the Department of Education to delay the process to consider revisions to the state’s social studies standards up to one year. She issued the following statement:

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
NEW UNDERWOOD, S.D. — One person died and two other people were injured in a one-vehicle crash Saturday night east of New Underwood.

Grant County Fatal Crash
MILBANK, S.D. — One person died and another person was seriously injured in a two-vehicle crash that occurred Friday afternoon south of Milbank.

Social Services

Child Support Commission to hold Sioux Falls meeting, hearing
The Commission on Child Support is continuing to conduct its required review of South Dakota’s child support guidelines and will hold the second of three public hearings next week in Sioux Falls.

Transportation

Concrete Spot Repair Work Begins in the Yankton Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says concrete spot repair work began this week in the Yankton area and will move from one project to the next.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Belle Fourche Railway Groundbreaking Held
A groundbreaking ceremony was held recently in Belle Fourche in honor of its newly planned railway expansion. Dozens gathered to take in the historic event that will create a more extensive transloading facility to serve the area and beyond.

Corrections

Inmates Thomas Wilson, Peyton Laird back in custody
State prison inmates Thomas Wilson and Peyton Laird are back in custody.

Governor Kristi Noem

A responsibility to be smart with taxpayer dollars
Do you find yourself wondering where your tax dollars go? In South Dakota, the simple answer is to education, health care, public safety, and other state government operations. But if you really want to talk dollars and cents, I can break it down for you using the change you find in your couch cushions.

Corrections

Inmates Thomas Wilson, Peyton Laird placed on escape status
State prison inmates Thomas Wilson and Peyton Laird have been placed on escape status.

Education

Pierre man to share his “Prairie Memories” at Cultural Heritage Center program
A collection of weekly columns by Gary Heintz for the Pierre Capital Journal have been gathered into a book titled “Prairie Memories,” which Heintz will discuss during a program at 7 p.m. CDT (6 p.m. MDT) on Thursday, Sept. 30.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR’s Woodmansey Receives Exceptional Service Award
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is excited to announce Kent Woodmansey has received an Exceptional Service Award from the Association of Clean Water Administrators (ACWA).

DANR Accepting Applications for the Volkswagen Electric Vehicle Charging Station Program
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is accepting applications for round two of the Volkswagen Electric Vehicle Charging Station Program.

Public Safety

Jones County Fatal Crash
MURDO, S.D. – One person died and three other people were injured Thursday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash west of Murdo.

Corrections

Inmate Kenneth Harr dies
State prison inmate Kenneth Harr has died as the result of natural causes.

Labor and Regulation

Governor Noem Proclaims Sept. 19-25 Adult Education and Family Literacy Week
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed Sept. 19-25, Adult Education and Family Literacy Week in South Dakota.

Public Safety

Names Released In Brule County Fatal Crash
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – A Mitchell, S.D. man has died as the result of injuries sustained in a one-vehicle crash that occurred Aug. 26, 2021 near Chamberlain.

Names Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
RAPID CITY, S.D. — A New Town, N.D., woman has been identified as the person who died last Thursday in a one-vehicle crash east of Rapid City.

Name Released In Perkins County Fatal Crash
BISON, S.D. – A Bismarck, N.D. man has been identified as the person who died last Wednesday afternoon in a motorcycle crash southeast of Bison.

Social Services

South Dakota awarded rural health transformation funds
The Department of Social Services (DSS) has been awarded up to $5 million in federal funding to transform the way health care is delivered in rural communities.

Transportation

Mill and Overlay Project to Begin on S.D. Highway 40
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin a mill and overlay project on S.D. Highway 40 starting Friday, Sept. 17, 2021.

Governor Kristi Noem

Jay Sekulow to Represent South Dakota in Planned Parenthood v. Noem
Governor Noem and the State of South Dakota have retained attorney Jay Sekulow and the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) to join the State’s legal team in the ongoing Planned Parenthood v. Noem litigation.

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order to Increase Flexibility in Hay Hauling
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2021-13, which extends the timeframe that hay haulers may move hay to 2 hours before sunrise and 2 hours after sunset.

Education

State Historical Society seeks public input on preservation needs
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) of the South Dakota State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre is preparing for its federal fiscal year 2022 grant application and invites public comment through Oct. 31 on the state’s preservation needs and projects.

Health

Department of Health & Board of Nursing Warn of Scam Targeting South Dakota Nurses
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, the South Dakota Health Department (SD-DOH) and the South Dakota Board of Nursing (SD-BON) released this statement after ongoing reports of scams targeting licensed nurses. The scam is being carried out via threatening phone calls/email.

Social Services

DSS offers training to help reduce suicide, mental health issues
he South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) offers a variety of training opportunities, including virtual courses, designed to help identify, understand, and respond to signs of crisis.

Tourism

GOVERNOR NOEM OPENS CALL TO STUDENT ARTISTS
PIERRE, S.D. – In celebration of National Arts in Education Week, Sept. 13-19, 2021, Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Arts Council are excited to announce the launch of the Governor’s Student Art Competition.

Revenue

Legislative changes expand property tax relief for eligible landowners
The South Dakota Department of Revenue and Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources reminds the public of the changes made to the riparian buffer strip program.

Education

State law requires Board of Education Standards meeting postponed to Oct. 25
The next meeting of the South Dakota Board of Education Standards has been postponed to Oct. 25 at the Ramkota Convention Center in Aberdeen. This meeting will include the public hearing for proposed content standards in several career and technical education career clusters, fine arts, and social studies. The meeting was previously scheduled for Sept. 20 in Aberdeen and is being postponed to comply with state law requirements for these hearings.

Health

Medical Cannabis Program Rules Pass Interim Rules Review Committee
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, the Legislature’s Interim Rules Review Committee approved the Department of Health’s proposed administrative rules to establish a medical cannabis program in South Dakota. The legislature approved 143 of 149 proposed rules.

Social Services

Family key to providing safety, stability to children
Family connections are critical to healthy child development and a sense of belonging. When children must be removed from their families for safety, kinship care is the preferred placement.

Governor Kristi Noem

9/11 anniversary and the lesson every generation must learn
I heard about it on the radio. The fall morning of Sept. 11, 2001, was a regular day driving in my truck to the family farm. Until it wasn’t. The first reports were coming through my pickup truck’s speakers: an airplane has flown into the World Trade Center in New York City.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Funds Available for Specialty Crop Advancement
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) announces additional funding available for Specialty Crop Block Grants to help stakeholders advance promotion of the industry and its products.

DANR and GFP Harmful Algal Blooms Notice
The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) and the Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) remind people that Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) remain prevalent in South Dakota waters.

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
RAPID CITY, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured Thursday in a one-vehicle crash east of Rapid City.

Transportation

Lane Closures Planned for Interstate 229 in Sioux Falls
Starting Monday, Sept. 13, 2021, the South Dakota Department of Transportation says survey crews will be working on Interstate 229 between exit 5 (26th Street) and exit 6 (10th Street).

Erosion Repair Work to Begin on U.S. Highway 385, South of Deadwood
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says erosion repair work on a two-mile section of U.S. Highway 385, 17 miles south of Deadwood will begin on Monday, Sept. 13, 2021.

Tribal Relations

Tribal members urged to ‘Reach for Life’
Suicide rates among South Dakota’s Native American population outpace the rate among other races prompting a special call for tribal members to “Reach for Life” on today’s Hope for Life and World Suicide Prevention Day.

Public Safety

Perkins County Fatal Crash
BISON, S.D. – One person died Wednesday afternoon in a motorcycle crash southeast of Bison.

Names Released In Fall River County Fatal Crash
HOT SPRINGS, S.D. – A 50-year-old Hot Springs, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died late Saturday night in a two-vehicle crash northeast of Hot Springs.

Names Released In Lincoln County Fatal Crash
HARRISBURG, S.D. – An Anchorage, Alaska man has been identified as the person who died late Saturday night in a pedestrian-vehicle fatal crash near Harrisburg.

Transportation

Heartland Expressway Reopens North of Oelrichs
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says 10 miles of the Heartland Expressway on U.S. Highway 18/U.S. Highway 385, from one-half mile north of Oelrichs to the Smithwick Road turn off, will reopen to four lanes of travel on Monday, Sept. 13, 2021.

Median Repair to Begin on U.S. Highway 85 Between Spearfish and Belle Fourche
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says median repair work on U.S. Highway 85, south of Belle Fourche, will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021.

Keystone Wye Bridge Rehabilitation Project Underway
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews have begun a bridge rehabilitation project on the Keystone Wye bridges at the junction of U.S. Highway 16 and U.S. Highway 16A.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem appoints Stacy Vinberg Wickre to the 7th Circuit Court
Governor Noem has appointed Stacy Vinberg Wickre to serve as a circuit court judge for the 7th Judicial Circuit, made up of Custer, Fall River, Oglala Lakota, and Pennington Counties.

Social Services

Additional funding available for child care providers
Additional funding to support child care programs and the families they serve is being made available, according to the Department of Social Services (DSS).

Transportation

Concrete Repair Work Begins on U.S. Highway 12 and Dakota Street Intersection in Aberdeen
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will begin concrete repair work at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Dakota Street on Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021.

Tribal Relations

Department of Tribal Relations Announces Updated Website
The South Dakota Department of Tribal Relations is excited to announce updates to their department website.

Veterans Affairs

POW/MIA RECOGNITION
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed Friday, Sept. 17, 2021, as “POW/MIA Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who fought bravely for our freedoms.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Blocks Telemedicine Abortions in South Dakota
Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2021-12, which directs the South Dakota Department of Health to establish rules preventing telemedicine abortions in South Dakota.

Public Safety

Lincoln County Fatal Crash
HARRISBURG, S.D. – One person died late Saturday night in a pedestrian-vehicle fatal crash near Harrisburg.

Fall River County Fatal Crash
HOT SPRINGS, S.D. – One person died late Saturday night in a two-vehicle crash northeast of Hot Springs.

Social Services

September is Behavioral Health Recovery Month in South Dakota
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed September as Behavioral Health Recovery Month in South Dakota to help spread the message that hope, healing, and happiness are possible.

Transportation

County-Wide Signing Project to Begin in Custer County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation with Brosz Engineering of Sturgis is administering a county-wide signing project for all county and city streets, and roads in Custer County.

SDDOT Hosting Open House Public Meeting for Interstate 90 – Exit 387 Reconstruction Project in Hartford
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will hold an open house public meeting to discuss and receive public input on the Interstate 90 – exit 387 reconstruction project. The open house is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. at the Hartford Area Fire Hall (305 S. St. in Hartford).

Corrections

Inmate Wesley Hammond back in custody
Inmate Wesley Hammond left a housing unit for minimum-security inmates in Huron without authorization Sept. 5. He was apprehended in Huron on Sept. 6 by a DOC staff member.

Inmate Wesley Hammond placed on escape status
Inmate Wesley Hammond left a housing unit for minimum-security inmates in Huron without authorization Sept. 5.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Noem Bringing South Dakota National Guard Troops Home from the Southern Border
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that the South Dakota National Guard troops on state active duty at the southern border will be returning home later this month. Governor Noem gave the following statement:

Education

Public input invited for survey of historic architecture in Brule, Lyman counties
The South Dakota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), within the South Dakota State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre, recently contracted with Johnson, Mirmiran, & Thompson, Inc. (JMT, Inc.) to complete a survey of historic architecture in Brule and Lyman counties. JMT, Inc. will be conducting fieldwork in September from the public right-of-way.

State Historical Society offers property tax moratorium
South Dakota State Historical Society officials remind property owners that Nov. 1 is the deadline to apply for the state property tax moratorium.

Public Safety

Names Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash (UPDATE)
KEYSTONE, S.D. – A Sioux Falls woman has died from injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash on Friday, Aug. 27 west of Keystone.

Social Services

Governor Noem proclaims September as Kinship Appreciation and Awareness Month
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed September 2021 as Kinship Appreciation and Awareness Month in South Dakota.

Governor Kristi Noem

DPS Provides Ravnsborg Investigation File to Speaker Gosch
Today, Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Public Safety provided the full investigation file into the fatal crash involving South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg and the late Joseph Boever to Spencer Gosch, the Speaker of the South Dakota House of Representatives.

Gov. Noem Statement on State Attorneys General Amicus Brief in Rushmore Fireworks Appeal
Today, sixteen state attorneys general filed an amicus brief in the Kristi Noem, et. al. v. Deb Haaland appeal, which seeks to restore South Dakota’s annual Mount Rushmore Fireworks Celebration.

Public Safety

South Dakota Tribes to Receive State 9-1-1 Funding
PIERRE, S.D. – Two South Dakota Native American tribes will receive state funding for their 9-1-1 telecommunications centers.

Names Released In Grant County Fatal Crash
MILBANK, S.D. – A Wall, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning in an UTV crash east of Milbank.

Social Services

September is Suicide Prevention Month in South Dakota
Suicide is a preventable public health problem and Governor Kristi Noem wants anyone who is struggling to find the help and resources they need. That is why she has proclaimed September as Suicide Prevention Month in South Dakota.

Mental Health Memo: Changing the Conversation Around Suicide
It can be said we’re all one significant event away from a mental health crisis.

Transportation

Temporary Lane Closure in Place on Interstate 90 in Rapid City
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says the eastbound lanes of Interstate 90 over the Maple Street bridge, will be reduced to one lane on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021

High Friction Surface Treatment to be Applied in Rapid City Region
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will be applying High Friction Surface Treatments (HFST) on various routes in the Rapid City Region.

Revenue

Tax revenue scales to $1.79 million at 2021 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Department of Revenue’s tax collections at the 2021 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally are currently at $1,795,706.

Board of Regents

Six Meetings Planned to Follow Up Higher Education Task Force Work​ ​
The South Dakota Board of Regents will hold outreach sessions on the six public university campuses in September and October to follow up on the work of a higher education task force that met over the past year.

Governor Kristi Noem

South Dakota National Guard to Support Monument Health in COVID Testing Efforts
This week, nine soldiers with the South Dakota National Guard were activated to support Monument Health in their COVID-19 testing efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

State Water Facilities Plan Application Deadline Approaching
The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is currently accepting applications for placement on the State Water Facilities Plan. The application deadline is October 1, 2021.

Health

First Human West Nile Virus Death of 2021 Reported
PIERRE, S.D. – A 42-year-old female, Union County resident is South Dakota’s first human West Nile Virus (WNV) death of the 2021 season, the state Health Department confirmed today.

Public Safety

Names Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – A Pipestone, MN man has been identified as the person who died Friday afternoon in a motorcycle crash west of Keystone.

Transportation

Rail CRISI and STC Grant Funds Available for Fiscal Year 2021
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program and will be issuing a notice for the Special Transportation Circumstance (STC) Grants.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Recent Study Shows Agriculture Continues to Drive South Dakota’s Economy
The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) in cooperation with AgUnited for South Dakota, South Dakota Dairy Producers, South Dakota Corn Utilization Council, Central Plains Dairy Foundation, and East River Electric Power Cooperative have released an economic contribution study of South Dakota Agriculture.

Ways to Save Money at the State Fair
The South Dakota State Fair offers several simple ways to save money during the fair.

Public Safety

DPS Announces September Sobriety Checkpoints
PIERRE, S.D. – September’s list of sobriety checkpoints has been released by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Transportation

Interstate 90 Exit 402 Ramp Closure Planned
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that Interstate 90 exit 402 eastbound to northbound and westbound to southbound ramps will be closed to traffic on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021.

Veterans Affairs

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of Air Force Combat Veteran 1LT Herbert Lyman and Army Combat Veteran T/SGT James Lyman
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will host a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Air Force Combat Veteran 1LT Herbert Lyman and Army Combat Veteran Tech Sergeant James Lyman.

Public Safety

Grant County Fatal Crash
MILBANK, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured early Sunday morning in a UTV crash east of Milbank.

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – One person died and another person was seriously injured Friday afternoon in a motorcycle crash west of Keystone.

Governor Kristi Noem

Conservative Principles Restrain Government, Not Expand Its Powers
You can’t be a constitutional conservative only when it suits you. We are now seeing a battle in the Republican Party between the populist wing and traditional limited government conservatism. So-called conservatives want to regulate businesses to prevent them from requiring a Covid vaccine as a condition of employment, but my beliefs do not allow me to waive the constitution because I disagree with a private business.

Corrections

Inmate Cameron Guenther back in custody
Inmate Cameron Guenther was arrested in Sioux Falls Aug. 27. He left his community service jobsite in Sioux Falls without authorization May 27.

Education

Kites & Bites program Sept. 11 at Cultural Heritage Center and Hilger’s Gulch
The South Dakota State Historical Society Museum and Becki Potrzeba State Farm Agency in Pierre are teaming up to present Kites & Bites at the museum’s Family Fun Saturday on Sept.11 from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT (9-10:30 MDT).

Deadwood’s past featured in Sept. 9 program at Cultural Heritage Center
Deadwood’s past includes a man who saved it from extinction. His role will be remembered in an author presentation at 7 p.m. CDT (6 p.m. MDT) on Thursday, Sept. 9.

Governor Kristi Noem

Gov. Kristi Noem Issues Statement on Attacks in Afghanistan
Today Governor Kristi Noem released the following statement in response to the attacks in Kabul, Afghanistan:

Governor Noem Issues Statement on Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg’s Plea Agreement
Today, following South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg’s plea of “no contest” to charges against him regarding the death of Joseph Boever, Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement:

Education

Build Dakota success leads to more industry participation and student support, helping address South Dakota workforce challenges
The seventh cohort of Build Dakota Scholarship Fund students will begin classes this month, helping to fill the gap of essential workforce needs for South Dakota.

State Historical Society announces fall Deadwood Fund grant applications
The South Dakota State Historical Society announces that the applications for the next round of the Deadwood Fund grant program should be postmarked no later than Oct. 1 for work beginning no sooner than Jan. 1, 2022.

Transportation

Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) Recipients Announced
The South Dakota Transportation Commission awarded 33 Preliminary Engineering Bridge Improvement Grants (BIG) totaling approximately $1.42 million at the Aug. 26 meeting in Pierre.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s August Column – No One Goes it Alone
During the past few weeks, I had the opportunity to network with our county and tribal veterans service officers (CTVSOs) and our staff. This afforded me the opportunity to hear about the challenges and roadblocks that our veterans are currently facing, especially with the ongoing events in the Middle East.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Appoints Lynn Jensen to Transportation Commission
Governor Kristi Noem has appointed Lynn Jensen to serve on the South Dakota Transportation Commission.

Education

Civics and History Initiative pilot grants awarded and second round of applications open
The first round of recipients of Civics and History Initiative pilot grants have been announced. Funded projects highlight the sacrifices of WWII veterans, implement the We the People program, and expand the study of Native American culture using the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards.

Transportation

Construction Begins on Interstate 229 over Minnesota Avenue
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says the southbound lanes on Interstate 229, over Minnesota Avenue, will be reduced to one lane on Wednesday, Aug. 25.

Revenue

DOR partners with DPS in adding new functionalities to the DMV Now Kiosks
South Dakotans can now complete five different transactions by using a DMV Now Kiosk.

Veterans Affairs

VETERANS DAY AT THE SOUTH DAKOTA STATE FAIR
At 10:30 a.m. on Sept. 2, the South Dakota State Fair will host a “Salute to Veterans” program on the Northwestern Energy Freedom Stage. South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Greg Whitlock will serve as the keynote speaker.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Files Brief in Mount Rushmore Fireworks Appeal
Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem filed an initial brief in her appeal in the Mount Rushmore Fireworks litigation. The brief was filed with the United States 8th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Education

JAG-SD expands to three more schools in 2021-22
The South Dakota Department of Education is pleased to announce that three more schools will be offering the Jobs for America’s Graduates-South Dakota (JAG-SD) program beginning in the 2021-22 school year, bringing the total number of schools to nine.

Transportation

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Project to Begin on S.D. Highway 89
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin a chip seal and fog seal project on portions of S.D. Highway 89 starting Monday, Aug. 30, 2021. The project will begin at the intersection of U.S. Highway 385 in Pringle and head south for 15 miles.

Corrections

Inmate Darrell Hoffpauir back in custody
Hoffpauir was arrested in Sioux Falls Aug. 23.

Inmate Cody Summerside back in custody
Summerside turned himself in to the Beadle County Jail Aug. 22.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Day Sponsors Offer Special Activities at the SD State Fair
The State Fair will be offering special themed days at the 2021 South Dakota State Fair thanks to the support of individual “day sponsors.”

Transportation

Erosion Repair Work Scheduled on Interstate 90 Near Sturgis
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says erosion repair work along Interstate 90 near Sturgis (exits 30 and 32) will start on Tuesday, Aug. 24, 2021.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem to Appeal District Court Decision in Planned Parenthood v. Noem
Today, following the District Court ruling in Planned Parenthood v. Noem, Governor Kristi Noem announced that the State of South Dakota will appeal the ruling to the United States 8th Circuit Court of Appeals.

South Dakota is a Rising Star as a Recovery Leader
It may not surprise many here at home, but South Dakota is leading the nation in recovery!

South Dakota Requests ARPA Funding
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that South Dakota has requested the state’s allocation from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF).

Transportation

AMENDED: S.D. Highway 87 to be Closed Through Portions of Wind Cave National Park
According to Wind Cave National Park, S.D. Highway 87 is closed from Rankin Ridge Road, mile marker 45, to the Centennial Trailhead, mile marker 41, through Oct. 12, 2021, due to maintenance on the Beaver Creek Arch Bridge and the Pigtail Bridge.

Pedestrian Crossing to be Installed on U.S. Highway 85 in Belle Fourche
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says pedestrian crossing installation on U.S. Highway 85 in Belle Fourche is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021. The pedestrian crossing will be located north of the Butte County Courthouse.

Corrections

Inmate Taylor Winegar back in custody
Winegar was arrested in Sioux Falls Aug. 19.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

The DEX: Dakota Events CompleX Groundbreaking Ceremony
The South Dakota State Fair will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the DEX: Dakota Events CompleX on Thursday, September 2, 2021, at 1:30 PM.

Social Services

Child Support Commission begins work
The guidelines for child support in South Dakota are undergoing an in-depth review by the Commission on Child Support with meetings planned over the next several months.

Transportation

SDDOT Project Wins 2021 American Concrete Pipe Association (ACPA) Project Achievement Award
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) Veterans Parkway Project (Rice Street to Interstate 90) was chosen as the recipient of the 2021 American Concrete Pipe Association (ACPA) Project Achievement Award.

Foam Jacking Projects Scheduled for Southwest South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews are scheduled to begin foam jacking projects at various locations throughout the southwestern section of South Dakota. The contractor will move from one project to the next in the scheduled following order:

South Dakota Department of Transportation Seeks Public Input into Interstate 29 Exit 71 Interchange Modification Study
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – 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 (FHWA), will hold a public open house from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 23, 2021, in the Council Room of the Tea City Hall (600 E 1st Street).

Health

Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines for Immunocompromised Individuals Now Available
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, the South Dakota Department of Health announced that a third shot of both Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are available for immunocompromised individuals following approval by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emergency use authorization amendment.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Ten South Dakota Businesses Named to Inc. 5000 National List for Growth
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Business is booming across South Dakota. This week, the state had 10 businesses named to the annual Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in the nation.

Corrections

Inmate Cody Summerside placed on escape status
Summerside left a housing unit for minimum-security inmates in Huron without authorization Aug. 17.

Education

Education department announces guidelines for 2021-22 free or reduced-price meal programs
Today, Child and Adult Nutrition Services in the South Dakota Department of Education is releasing guidelines for the 2021-22 free milk or free and reduced-price meals programs.

Transportation

2021 Sturgis Rally Final Vehicle Counts
Final vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 81st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 6-15, 2021, have been tallied.

Asphalt Resurfacing Continues on S.D. Highway 34 and S.D. Highway 79
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews have begun asphalt resurfacing operations on S.D. Highway 79 between mile marker 118 and mile marker 130, seven miles north of Sturgis to the U.S. Highway 212 intersection. Asphalt resurfacing will also begin the week of Aug. 16, 2021, on S.D. Highway 34, in Sturgis between mile markers 36 and 39.

Veterans Affairs

Leaders Recognized for their Service to South Dakota's Veterans
County and tribal veterans’ service officers (CTVSO) and staff from the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA) were recognized for their dedication to serving veterans and veterans’ families at an awards program Monday, Aug. 16, in Pierre.

Dan Cullen Named Outstanding Veterans Service Officer of the Year
Dan Cullen of Hot Springs has been named the 2021 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs “Outstanding Veterans Service Officer of the Year.” Cullen was recognized by his peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 16, in Pierre.

Jerry Lemme Receives 2021 SDDVA Outstanding Department Staffer of the Year Award
Jerry Lemme of Dell Rapids has been named the 2021 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Outstanding Department Staffer of the Year. Lemme was recognized by his peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 16, in Pierre.

Aaron Pollard Receives 2021 SDDVA Outstanding Leader, Mentor, Advocate of the Year Award
Aaron Pollard of Sioux Falls has been named the 2021 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Outstanding Leader, Mentor, Advocate of the Year. Pollard was recognized by his peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 16, in Pierre.

Todd Rose Receives 2021 SDDVA New Veteran Service Officer of the Year Award
Todd Rose of Watertown has been named the 2021 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs New Veterans Service Officer of the Year. Rose was recognized by his peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 16, in Pierre.

River Cities Public Transit Receives SDDVA 2021 Partner of the Year Award
River Cities Public Transit, based in Pierre, has been named the 2021 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Partner of the Year. RCPT was recognized at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 16, in Pierre.

Corrections

Inmate Darrell Hoffpauir placed on escape status
Hoffpauir left the Sioux Falls Community Work Center to go to his work release job Aug. 16. He failed to return to the unit at the appointed time.

Inmate Taylor Winegar placed on escape status
Winegar left the Yankton Community Work Center to search for work release employment Aug. 16. He failed to return to the unit at the appointed time.

Transportation

Asphalt Surfacing to Begin on S.D. Highway 20 in Perkins County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says crews will begin asphalt resurfacing operations the week of Aug. 23, 2021, for 30 miles on S.D. Highway 20 from Prairie City to Meadow Corner.

Corrections

Inmate Christopher Cramblit back in custody
Cramblit was arrested in Minnehaha County Aug. 14 and returned to DOC custody.

Public Safety

Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally (FINAL NUMBERS)
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 07, 2021 to 6 a.m. Sunday August 15, 2021. FINAL RALLY TALLY NUMBERS

Public Safety

Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 7, 2021 to 6 a.m. Saturday August 14, 2021

Governor Kristi Noem

Secretary Mike Leidholt Announces Retirement
Today, South Dakota Secretary of Corrections Mike Leidholt announced his retirement. Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement:

Governor Noem Accepting Applications for Fall and Spring Interns
Governor Kristi Noem is now accepting applications for the Governor’s Office fall 2021 and Spring 2022 internship programs.

They Come to Sturgis (and South Dakota) for Freedom
The Sturgis Rally is one of the biggest gatherings for motorcycle enthusiasts in the world. While the rally has always promoted an independent spirit, these past two years have taken on a new meaning of freedom.

Public Safety

Friday, Aug. 13, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 7, 2021 to 6 a.m. Friday August 13, 2021

Transportation

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Projects to Begin in Pierre Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says chip seal and fog seal applications will be applied to several highways in the Pierre area. The contractor will start on Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021.

2021 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Seven
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 81st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 6-15, 2021 are updated daily.

Paving Operations to Begin on Interstate 229 Between Exit 2 (Western Avenue) and Exit 1 (Louise Avenue)
South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that beginning Tuesday, Aug. 17, crews will begin paving operations on Interstate 229 between exit 2 (Western Avenue) and exit 1 (Louise Avenue).

Interstate 90 Off-Ramp Closure Planned at Exit 390 (Buffalo Ridge) Near Hartford
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that a closure is planned for the westbound off-ramp at Exit 390 (Buffalo Ridge) on Interstate 90 near Hartford.

Corrections

Inmate Rudolph Gabe placed on escape status
State prison inmate Rudolph Gabe has been placed on escape status.

Public Safety

Thursday, Aug. 12, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 7, 2021 to 6 a.m. Thursday August 12, 2021.

Social Services

College tuition grant funding available to current, former foster care youth
The Department of Social Services (DSS) has help available for current and former foster care youth to further their education.

Transportation

S.D. Highway 87 to be Closed Through Portions of Wind Cave National Park
According to Wind Cave National Park, S.D. Highway 87 will be closed starting on Aug. 16, 2021, through Oct. 12, 2021, due to maintenance on the Beaver Creek Arch Bridge (mile marker 41.3) and the Pigtail Bridge (mile marker 43.0).

2021 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Six
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 81st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 6-15, 2021 are updated daily.

Public Safety

Wednesday Aug. 11, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 7, 2021 to 6 a.m. Wednesday August 11, 2021

Names Released in Lawrence County Fatal Crash
STURGIS, S.D. – A Watertown, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Friday afternoon in a motorcycle-vehicle crash south of Sturgis.

Transportation

2021 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Five
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 81st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 6-15, 2021, are available and will be updated daily.

Asphalt Paving to Begin on U.S. Highway 14 from Highway 1804 East to One Mile West of U.S. 83 Junction
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says work will begin Friday, Aug. 13, on an asphalt resurfacing project on U.S. Highway 14 from approximately Highway 1804 east to one mile west of the junction of U.S. 14 and U.S. 83 (mile markers 230 to 245).

Public Safety

Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 7, 2021 to 6 a.m. Tuesday August 10, 2021

Transportation

2021 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Four
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 81st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 6-15, 2021, are available and will be updated daily.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Appoints Jennifer Mammenga to 2nd Circuit Court
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will appoint Jennifer Mammenga to serve on the South Dakota 2nd Circuit Court.

Corrections

Inmate Christopher Cramblit placed on escape status
Cramblit left the Yankton Community Work Center without authorization on August 8.

Public Safety

Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 7, 2021 to 6 a.m. Monday August 9, 2021.

Social Services

Commission on Child Support to hold public hearings on proposed guideline changes
The Commission on Child Support will conduct public hearings over the next three months to gather input on potential changes to South Dakota’s child support guidelines and related statutes.

Transportation

2021 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Three
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 81st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 6-15, 2021, are available and will be updated daily.

Veterans Affairs

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of Air Force CPT Charles Lane, Jr
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Air Force Combat Veteran Captain Charles Lane, Jr.

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of Army PVT Bruce Ruby
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Army Combat Veteran Private Bruce Ruby.

Public Safety

Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021 Sturgis Rally Tally
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 7, 2021 to 6 a.m. Sunday August 8, 2021

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
HILL CITY, S.D. – A 58-year-old male has died from injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash that occurred Friday, Aug. 6, southeast of Hill City.

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
STURGIS, S.D. – One person died and another person was seriously injured Friday afternoon in a motorcycle-vehicle crash south of Sturgis

Jackson County Fatal Crash
KADOKA, S.D. – A 58-year-old female died Friday in a motorcycle crash west of Kadoka.

Governor Kristi Noem

State Selects CGL Group to Review Department of Corrections
The State of South Dakota has selected CGL Companies of Sacramento, CA to conduct a comprehensive review of Department of Corrections (DOC) operations.

Back-to-School for students, teachers, and parents
It’s back-to-school season. It's a busy time filled with excitement for students and teachers, as well as parents eager to snap those “first day of school” photos. The outpouring of positivity for students at every grade level has always been a great way to kickstart the school year.

Education

Story of five Lake Shetek women will be told at Cultural Heritage Center
A story of survival will be told in a program on Wednesday, Aug. 18, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Proposed content standards posted for public comment
Proposed content standards in several subject areas are now posted for public comment on the South Dakota Department of Education’s website.

Health

Free antigen test kits available during Sturgis Rally
To help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Monument Health is partnering with the South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) to provide free antigen COVID-19 test kits to visitors during the rally.

Public Safety

Meade County Fatal Crash
STURGIS, S.D. – A 74-year-old man has died as a results of injuries sustained in a motorcycle-vehicle fatal crash that occurred Monday, Aug. 2, near Sturgis.

Ceremony Wednesday to Honor State Firefighter Lost in 2011 Coal Canyon Fire
RAPID CITY, S.D. – A memorial ceremony is Wednesday, Aug. 11, to honor South Dakota Wildland Fire’s Trampus Haskvitz, a state firefighter who died in the 2011 Coal Canyon Fire, that occurred in the Black Hills.

Tourism

APPLY FOR AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN GRANTS
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) is now accepting applications for American Rescue Plan grant funds designated for South Dakota arts and cultural organizations. The submission deadline is Oct. 8.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Statement on Board of Regents Draft Policy Restricting CRT in Colleges, Universities
Today, Governor Kristi Noem released the following statement in response to the South Dakota Board of Regents’ approval of a draft policy restricting the teaching of Critical Race Theory at state colleges and universities:

Public Safety

Names Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – A Hot Springs, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Saturday morning in a fatal crash involving three motorcycles that occurred near Keystone.

Names Released In Buffalo County Fatal Crash
FORT THOMPSON, S.D. – A Gann Valley, S.D. female has been identified as the person who died Sunday night in a two-vehicle crash that occurred northeast of Fort Thompson.

Names Released In Faulk County Fatal Crash
HOVEN, S.D. – A 62-year-old Onaka, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Sunday morning in a two-vehicle crash that occurred east of Hoven.

Board of Regents

Regents Adopt Student Athletes’ Name-Image-Likeness Policy
The South Dakota Board of Regents has adopted policy to govern the commercial use of student athletes’ name, image, and likeness at the six public universities the board oversees.

Regents Issue ‘Opportunity for All’ Statement
The South Dakota Board of Regents today adopted a statement and action plan that strongly positions its public universities as places of opportunity for all students to benefit from higher education, preparing them to live and work in South Dakota or anywhere in the world.

Regents Approve Program Request to Offer Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice at the Community College for Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Board of Regents approved a new academic program request this week from the University of South Dakota that will help build and grow the healthcare workforce in the state.

Veterans Affairs

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of Army PFC Robert Rand
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Army Combat Veteran Private First Class Robert Rand.

Health

South Dakota Supports Breastfeeding
In acknowledgment of the importance of breastfeeding to the health of South Dakota, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed August 2021 as Breastfeeding Month.

Labor and Regulation

UpSkill Program Application Deadline Extended
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 has been extended to Aug. 17.

Public Safety

Names Released In Meade County Fatal Crash
PIEDMONT, S.D. – A Rapid City, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Saturday morning in a one-vehicle crash that occurred east of Piedmont.

Corrections

Inmate Brandon Scott back in custody
State prison inmate Brandon Scott is back in custody.

Education

10 students receive Hagen-Harvey scholarships
Ten students have received Richard Hagen-Minerva Harvey Memorial State scholarships. This scholarship program provides up to $6,000 over four years for study at a public or non-public accredited university, college, or technical college located in South Dakota to enrolled members of American Indian tribes.

Transportation

Temporary Road Closure Scheduled for U.S. Highway 83
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says Foothills Contracting, Inc. will be closing U.S. Highway 83 on Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2021, for the installation of pipe and to backfill over the additional sections of the box culvert.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Representative Bob Glanzer to be Posthumously Awarded Bob Duxbury Award at SD State Fair
Representative Bob Glanzer will be posthumously awarded the Bob Duxbury Award during the 2021 South Dakota State Fair on Saturday, September 4, at 12 PM at the NorthWestern Energy Freedom Stage.

Public Safety

Buffalo County Fatal Crash
FORT THOMPSON, S.D. – One person died and three other people were injured Sunday night in a two-vehicle crash that occurred northeast of Fort Thompson.

Faulk County Fatal Crash
HOVEN, S.D. – One person died Sunday morning in a two-vehicle crash that occurred east of Hoven.

Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured Saturday morning in a fatal crash involving three motorcycles that occurred near Keystone.

Transportation

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Projects Begin in the Mitchell Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says chip seal and fog seal applications will be applied to several highways in the Mitchell area beginning this week.

Veterans Affairs

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of Army PVT Richard Bertram
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Army Combat Veteran Private Richard Bertram.

Public Safety

Meade County Fatal Crash
PIEDMONT, S.D. – One person died Saturday morning in a one-vehicle crash that occurred east of Piedmont.

Education

First Congregational Church in Vermillion listed in National Register of Historic Places
The First Congregational Church in Vermillion was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 16, the South Dakota State Historical Society has announced.

“South Dakota History” examines mapping, Indian reform, and missionaries
Black Hills mapping, Indian reformer Charles C. Painter, and missionary families in the northern plains are highlighted in the latest issue of “South Dakota History,” the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society.

State Historical Society hosting Measuring South Dakota program Aug. 7 at Capitol Lake Visitors Center
The South Dakota State Historical Society Museum at the Cultural Heritage Center will change up its usual Family Fun Saturday in August and hold the event Saturday, Aug. 7, at the Capitol Lake Visitors Center in Pierre from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. CDT (9 a.m.-1 p.m. MDT).

Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR Expands Air Quality Alert to Include Entire State
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) issued an air quality alert for all South Dakota where smoke from wildfires in Canada has settled.

Social Services

Mental Health Memo: 5 Back-to-School-Tips
“Back to School” season can be full of excitement and new adventures, but, for some, the thought of going back to school can bring overwhelming feelings of anxiety about the unknown.

Transportation

Highway 1806 “Singing Bridge” Reopens to All Traffic
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that permanent repairs to the “Singing Bridge” on S.D. Highway 1806 over the Grand River have been completed and the bridge has reopened to all traffic, as of Friday, July 30, 2021.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Cole TAC Now Calls South Dakota Home and Relocates From New Hampshire
RAPID CITY, S.D. – A ribbon cutting was held for Cole-TAC on Wednesday, July 28 at the company’s newest location, 3350 Jet Dr., Rapid City.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Joins Amicus Brief in SCOTUS Abortion Case
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 240 women scholars, professionals, and pro-life feminist organizations filed an amicus brief in the most important pro-life case to be argued at the Supreme Court of the United States in at least a generation.

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order Banning Federal Grants Tied to Critical Race Theory
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2021-11, which directs the South Dakota Department of Education to refrain from applying for any federal grants tied to critical race theory.

Corrections

Inmate Brandon Scott placed on escape status
Scott left his community service jobsite in Sioux Falls without authorization July 29.

Education

State Library announces $1.9M in grants to 78 libraries
At today’s State Library Board meeting, it was announced that 78 South Dakota libraries have received $1.9 million in grants funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

Department releases COVID-19 report and plans Aug. 4 Education Summit
The South Dakota Department of Education has released a report about the impact of COVID-19 on the state’s K-12 education system, based on a survey the department distributed to school leaders last May. The report examines what the 2020-21 school year looked like, impacts of the pandemic, and how the department will address pressing needs going forward.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

DANR Announces Air Quality Alert for Eastern South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) issued an air quality alert for areas of eastern South Dakota where smoke from wildfires in Canada has settled.

Let Your Voice Shine at the Dakota Star Talent Competition
Singers can make their voices heard at the Dakota Star Talent Competition sponsored by Dakotaland Federal Credit Union at the South Dakota State Fair.

Public Safety

DPS Announces August Sobriety Checkpoints
PIERRE, S.D. – Ten sobriety checkpoints in eight counties are planned throughout South Dakota during August.

Transportation

Urban Reconstruction Progressing in Gettysburg
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) continues the reconstruction process on U.S. Highway 212 in Gettysburg.

Veterans Affairs

Purple Heart Recognition Day
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021, as “Purple Heart Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who are recipients of the Purple Heart Medal.

Corrections

Inmate Garang Majok back in custody
State prison inmate Garang Majok is back in custody.

Transportation

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Project to Begin on S.D. Highway 71
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says crews will begin a chip seal and fog seal project on S.D. Highway 71 starting Thursday, July 29, 2021.

Veterans Affairs

VA Transforms Education Benefits for Veterans
There are a wide range of education benefits available to veterans, servicemembers, and their dependents. These programs include apprenticeship, on-the-job training, college degree and certificate programs, flight training, and correspondence courses.

Health

South Dakota Department of Health Notice of Public Hearing to Adopt Rules
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health announced that a public hearing will be held on August 18, 2021, in Conference Room 3 of the Kneip Building, 700 Governor’s Drive in Pierre, SD to consider the adoption and amendment of proposed rules for South Dakota medical cannabis program as required by SDCL 34-20G.