Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Outlines CARES Act Benefits and Implementation
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is outlining the benefits of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020, which provides unemployment benefits for the self-employed, independent contractors, nonprofit employees, gig economy workers, those who have exhausted other unemployment insurance benefits, and those who may not have sufficient work history to qualify for a regular state claim.

Public Safety

Testing for New CDLs To Be Offered This Week
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Driver Licensing Program will open driver exam stations starting Tuesday (April 7) in four cities “by appointment only” to help those who are applying for new commercial driving licenses (CDL) or new CDL endorsements.

Fall River Fatal Crash
OELRICHS, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured Sunday night in a one-vehicle crash east of Oelrichs.

Social Services

DSS stresses need to seek help in crisis situations
During this period of uncertainty and stress, the Department of Social Services urges people to seek help when they need it.

Board of Regents

Summer Term Remains Online for South Dakota Public Universities
The South Dakota Board of Regents announced today it will continue remote delivery for all public university instruction through the summer academic term.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem’s Statement on the Passing of Representative Bob Glanzer
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement on the passing of state Representative Bob Glanzer (R-Huron):

Governor Kristi Noem

Together, We Can Do This
With the COVID-19 situation continuing to be very fluid in South Dakota, it is important for us to remember that this a marathon, not a sprint.

Public Utilities Commission

Calling 811 remains an essential safety step, even during a pandemic.
n light of the coronavirus pandemic, the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission is urging South Dakotans to be especially vigilant about utilizing 811’s Call Before You Dig service to mark underground utilities and to exercise extreme caution with excavating projects.

Agriculture

Private Pesticide Applicator Testing Available Online
Due to the spread of COVID-19 all remaining South Dakota private pesticide applicator in-person trainings will be replaced by online testing.

Announcing the 2020 Wildfire Awareness Month Coloring Contest
Wildfire Awareness Month takes place in May of 2020 in the State of South Dakota. To kick it off, South Dakota Wildland Fire is calling all kids, ages 3-12, to showcase their artistic abilities in the 2020 Wildfire Awareness Month Coloring Contest.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Insurance Initial Weekly Claims Rise Dramatically
During the week of March 22-28, a total of 6,645 initial weekly claims for unemployment benefits were filed with the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Transportation

U.S. Highway 212 Work Set to Restart in Watertown
Reede Construction will start the remaining work on Highway 212 between Highway 20 and Highway 81 in Watertown on Wednesday, April 8.

Construction of Highway 10 in Sisseton Resuming
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work on Highway 10 in Sisseton will resume on Monday, April 6, depending on weather.

Highway 50 Reconstruction East of Vermillion to Begin
Starting Monday, April 13, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin work on Highway 50 from Interstate 29 to Vermillion.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claimants Must Request Weekly Payment
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) reminds unemployment insurance claimants to request a weekly payment by calling 605-626-3212 after 6 p.m. CDT or by filing online at RAclaims.sd.gov any time.

Public Safety

Temporary Extensions Granted For Driver License Expiration Dates
PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Kristi Noem has signed legislation that gives the Department of Public Safety Cabinet Secretary the authority to order the temporary extension of the expiration date for certain driver licenses.

Transportation

Construction to Begin on Highway 42
Starting Monday, April 13, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin construction on Highway 42 from just west of 453rd Avenue to 469th Avenue (Tea/Ellis Road) in Sioux Falls.

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 16
Effective at Noon MDT, April 3, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will be REMOVED from the road segment shown in the table below.

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 15
Effective at Noon CDT, April 1, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will be REMOVED from the road segment shown in the table below.

Board of Regents

Regents Make No Changes in Tuition and Fees for Coming Year
The South Dakota Board of Regents agreed today to maintain its existing tuition and mandatory fees for the next academic year.

Regents Approve Academic Program Requests
The South Dakota Board of Regents this week granted academic program requests from four of its public universities. The following actions, sorted by the university making the request, were approved:

Wadsworth Named School for the Deaf Superintendent
An educator with more than 30 years of experience in deaf education has been named the next superintendent of the South Dakota School for Deaf.

Regents Elect New Slate of Officers
Meeting by teleconference, members of the South Dakota Board of Regents elected new officers Wednesday for the coming year.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 11 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Kristi Noem signs 11 bills today.

Public Safety

Name Released In Haakon County Fatal Crash
BILLSBURG, S.D. – A Philip, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died early Friday night in a one-vehicle crash east of Billsburg.

Transportation

Construction to Resume on Highway 115
Starting Monday, April 6, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will resume work on Highway 115 from 85th Street to Cardinal Place just south of 271st Street (Lincoln County Highway 106).

Intersection Improvements on Highways 16 and 79
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a project to improve intersections on highways 16 and 79 in Rapid City has begun.

Health

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Deadwood
PIERRE, S.D. – State Health officials announced today that two staff members at Saloon #10 in Deadwood have tested positive for COVID-19. Both workers reported working while ill with COVID symptoms.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Filing Reminders for Workers
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) continues to handle an unprecedented volume of unemployment insurance claims due to COVID-19 related layoffs.

Transportation

HILL CITY STREETSCAPE PROJECT RESUMES
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a project to make repairs to Main Street in Hill City will resume today, Monday, March 30.

Public Safety

Haakon County Fatal Crash
BILLSBURG, S.D. – One man died early Friday night in a one-vehicle crash east of Billsburg.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 15 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Noem signed 15 bills today.

Noem Weekly Column: During This Time of Uncertainty, Remember to Reflect
For weeks, we’ve all been glued to the news searching for updates about COVID-19.

Education

State Historical Society requests women’s suffrage movement items
The South Dakota State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre, is seeking archival records and artifacts documenting the women’s suffrage movement in South Dakota.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Implementing Unemployment Insurance System Improvements
The Department of Labor and Regulation has seen a dramatic increase in unemployment insurance activity due to COVID-19 related layoffs.

Labor Department Warns Against Unemployment Insurance Scams
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) warns unemployment insurance claimants about potential scams aiming to steal personal information.

Transportation

Highway 81 Concrete Pavement Repairs
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be placing lane closures and stop signs at various locations on Highway 81 from Arlington north to the Highway 28 junction on Monday, March 30.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 13 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Kristi Noem signed another package of bills today, many relating to cutting the red tape of unnecessary regulation.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Insurance Initial Weekly Claims Rise
During the week of March 15-21, a total of 1,703 initial weekly claims for unemployment benefits were filed with the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 13 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - The Governor signed 13 bills today and delivered two style and form vetoes on Senate Bills 20 and Senate Bill 75.

Labor and Regulation

Business Webinar on Unemployment Insurance during the COVID-19 Pandemic
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) and South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA) are providing a free webinar related to unemployment insurance and COVID-19 on Friday, March 27 at 10 a.m. CDT.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 19 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Noem signed 19 bills.

Noem Signs 17 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Noem signed 17 bills.

Board of Regents

South Dakota Public Universities Move Rest of Semester Online
As COVID-19 further impacts this state and region, the South Dakota Board of Regents, and the six public universities and two special schools it governs, must adjust operations accordingly.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem to Hold Media Availability Tomorrow Regarding Coronavirus in South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will hold a brief media availability tomorrow, March 24, to discuss developments surrounding coronavirus in South Dakota.

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Thursday, March 26, 2020, to honor the life of former ​State Representative Patrick Kirschman.

Noem Issues Executive Order Regarding COVID-19 Guidelines
PIERRE, S.D. - On March 23, Governor Kristi Noem signed an executive order outlining guidelines for all South Dakotans, for-profit and not-for-profit employers, enclosed retail businesses that promote public gatherings, local and municipal governments, and healthcare organizations as it relates to COVID-19 in the state of South Dakota.

Noem Postpones the 2020 South Dakota Week of Work
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem today announced that the 2020 South Dakota Week of Work will be postponed until the fall.

Education

U.S. Department of Education approves South Dakota’s statewide assessment waiver
The U.S. Department of Education has informally approved the South Dakota Department of Education’s waiver of statewide assessment requirements, accountability, and school identification requirements for the 2019-20 school year.

Game, Fish and Parks

Nest Predator Bounty Program Begins April 1
PIERRE, S.D.-The 2020 Nest Predator Bounty Program will begin on April 1. However, due to concerns of COVID-19, the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) will not be accepting tails for the program until a later date. Participants are asked to freeze all tails until dates and locations are determined for submission.

Public Safety

Name Released In Corson County Fatal Crash
McLAUGHLIN, S.D. – A McLaughlin, S.D. woman has been identified as the person who died Thursday morning in a one-vehicle crash south of McLaughlin.

Corson County Fatal Crash
McLAUGHLIN, S.D. – One woman died early Thursday morning in a one-vehicle crash south of McLaughlin.

Social Services

DSS encourages use of online, remote resources during COVID-19 situation
The South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) is asking the public to make use of its online resources instead of going out and risking exposure to COVID-19.

Transportation

Eastbound I-90 Lane Closure at Exit 402
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be placing a lane closure in the eastbound passing lane on I-90 near Exit 402 in Sioux Falls on Tuesday, March 24.

Federal Grants Awarded for Rail Projects
The South Dakota Department of Transportation has learned that four grant requests have been approved to receive Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) grant awards.

Revenue

Motor vehicle title and registration renewals extended
The South Dakota Department of Revenue’s Motor Vehicle Division is asking law enforcement to not enforce certain expirations until May 1, 2020.

Veterans Affairs

GOVERNOR NOEM PROCLAIMS VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed Sunday, March 29, 2020, as “Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to recognize the courage, service and sacrifice of the men and women who served during the Vietnam War.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Weekly Column: South Dakotans Come Together to Respond to COVID-19
With the COVID-19 situation changing rapidly, it’s hard to predict what tomorrow may bring.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Insurance Eligibility Requirements Loosened
Today, state Labor and Regulation Secretary Marcia Hultman exercised authority to waive the requirement workers filing for unemployment must actively search for work to be eligible for benefits.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 15 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Noem signed 15 bills today.

SBA Approves Economic Injury Disaster Loan Fund Program Access for South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem announced today that small businesses and non-profit organizations in South Dakota that have been negatively impacted by the global COVID-19 virus are now eligible for economic assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Education

Vogt sworn in as new ACHP Expert Member
Chairman Aimee Jorjani recently welcomed new Expert Member Jay D. Vogt, director of the South Dakota State Historical Society, to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.

Human Services

2020 Governor’s Awards Nominations
The South Dakota Board of Vocational Rehabilitation, Board of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Statewide Independent Living Council are now accepting nominations for the 2020 Governor’s Awards.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Claims: What Workers and Businesses Need to Know
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) reports a dramatic increase in activity at the Unemployment Insurance Call Center during the last week due to COVID-19 related layoffs.

Veterans Affairs

SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS CONTINUES TO ASSIST VETERANS FILING CLAIMS
The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Regional Office, including the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be closed to the public for in-person services as of Thursday, March 19, but remains available to provide critical services.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem to Hold Media Availability Today Regarding Coronavirus in South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will hold a brief media availability today, March 19, to discuss developments surrounding coronavirus in South Dakota.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Accepting Unemployment Claims from Workers Affected by COVID-19
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is accepting reemployment assistance (unemployment insurance) claims from workers who are not able to work due to COVID-19.

Social Services

Helping children deal with COVID-19
With school cancelled for two weeks in South Dakota and other social distancing techniques being strongly recommended for the foreseeable future, children might feel anxious, isolated and depressed. The Department of Social Services (DSS) has resources available to help kids and adults alike deal with the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Transportation

SD 46 Reconstruction Project Public Information Meeting Cancelled
The in person Open House/Public Meeting that was Scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2020, at the SD Army National Guard Armory for the proposed SDDOT project to Reconstruct SD Hwy 46 through Wagner has been CANCELLED.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 17 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Noem signed 17 bills today.

Noem to Hold Brief Media Availability in Rapid City to Discuss Coronavirus
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will hold a brief media availability Wednesday, March 18, in Rapid City to discuss developments surrounding coronavirus in South Dakota.

Public Utilities Commission

South Dakota PUC approves construction permit for Crowned Ridge Wind II
The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission approved a construction permit for the Crowned Ridge Wind II Project, a 301-megawatt wind energy facility to be constructed in Codington, Deuel and Grant counties.

Labor and Regulation

Employers: Use SIDES for Online Unemployment Filing
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is asking employers filing unemployment insurance information to sign up for the State Information Data Exchange System (SIDES) e-Response.

Public Safety

Name Released In Butte County Fatal Crash
NEWELL, S.D. – A Spearfish, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died early Sunday in a one-vehicle crash east of Newell.

Transportation

SD Highway 10 Public Open House In-person Meeting Cancelled
The in person Open House/Public Meeting that was Scheduled for Monday, March 23, 2020 at the Britton Event Center for the proposed SDDOT project to Shoulder Widen SD Hwy 10 from Houghton to Britton has been CANCELLED.

Revenue

South Dakota Department of Revenue is Open
The South Dakota Department of Revenue staff, though not in the office, is working remotely to assist South Dakotans.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem to Hold Brief Media Availability Today in Sioux Falls to Discuss Coronavirus
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will hold a brief media availability today, March 17, in Sioux Falls to discuss developments surrounding coronavirus in South Dakota.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Accepting Unemployment Claims from School Employees Affected by COVID-19 Closures
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is accepting reemployment assistance (unemployment insurance) claims from school employees who are not able to work due to COVID-19 closures.

Public Safety

DPS Statement on 9-1-1 Lawsuit
PIERRE, S.D. -- The South Dakota Department of Public Safety and its 9-1-1 Coordination Board announced today that the state has settled its civil lawsuit with three companies.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 14
Effective at 10 a.m. CDT, March 18, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will be REMOVED from the road segment shown in the table below.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 10 Bills
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Noem signed 10 bills today, some taking effect immediately and others on July 1.

Governor Noem Works to Activate Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Fund Program in South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. - Governor Kristi Noem and her team are working closely with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to activate the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program in South Dakota.

Agriculture

Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants Now Open
Grant applications for the Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) program will be accepted from March 16 to April 30, 2020.

Education

School food service during unexpected school closures
The South Dakota Department of Education’s Office of Child and Adult Nutrition Services has received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to allow for school food services to continue during this time of unexpected school closures.

Board of Regents

Regents’ Executive Director to Step Down
Paul B. Beran, executive director and CEO of the South Dakota Board of Regents since 2018, announced today he will be leaving the Board of Regents at the end of his current contract, which runs through June 2020.

Public University Classes Move Temporarily Online Next Week
Last Thursday, the South Dakota Board of Regents announced it would extend spring break at the state’s six public universities in South Dakota through this Friday, March 20. The following is a statement from the South Dakota Board of Regents about additional system actions in response to the COVID-19 situation.

Labor and Regulation

Reemployment Assistance Customer Service Center Remains Open
The Reemployment Assistance Customer Service Center (call center located in Aberdeen) will remain open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT the week of March 16.

Public Safety

Butte County Fatal Crash
NEWELL, S.D. – One man died early Sunday in a one-vehicle crash east of Newell.

Social Services

COVID-19 guidance to childcare facilities
PIERRE – The Department of Social Services (DSS) is asking childcare providers in South Dakota to take steps to ensure that the health and safety of children, families, and providers remain top priorities in the days and weeks ahead.

Game, Fish and Parks

Extended: Proposals Being Accepted for Business Opportunities at Spring Creek
PIERRE, S.D. – Entrepreneurs have a little longer to submit a proposal to run the restaurant and convenience store at Spring Creek Recreation Area north of Pierre.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Commission Proposes Change to Age Restrictions for Youth Waterfowl Season
At their March meeting, the GFP Commission proposed to modify the eligibility from youth who have not reached the age of 16 to youth who have not reached the age of 18.

GFP Commission Proposes Modifications to Archery Deer Season, Adds Units in some Municipalities
PIERRE, S.D. – The Game, Fish and Parks Commission proposed to modify the season start date for Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge and Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge from the fourth Saturday of September to September 1. These changes would align with the start date of archery deer hunting across the state.

GFP Commission Proposes Changes to Elk Application Requirements
PIERRE, S.D. – At their March meeting, the GFP Commission proposed modifications and an addition to the rules surrounding elk application requirements.

GFP Commission Accepts Petition to Extend Youth Pheasant Season
PIERRE, S.D. – At their March meeting, the Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission proposed to extend the youth pheasant season to include two full weekends. The proposal originated through the public petition process.

GFP COMMISSION PROPOSES REMOVAL OF RIVER OTTER FROM STATE’S THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES LIST
PIERRE, S.D. – The Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission proposed to remove the river otter from South Dakota’s list of threatened and endangered species.

COMMISSION MODIFIES RULES RELATED TO CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission modified how deer and elk hunting units are classified as a chronic wasting disease (CWD) endemic area. Results from surveillance efforts have detected CWD in eight new counties this past fall.

GFP COMMISSION PROPOSES ELK SEASONS
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission proposed changes to the number of elk licenses available in the 2020 and 2021 hunting seasons. The changes are based on the results of the Black Hills aerial survey to maximize hunter opportunity and meet population objectives identified in the elk management plan.

COMMISSION RETAINS CURRENT RULES FOR SPRING TURKEY SEASON
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission deadlocked on a proposal allowing the use of rifles to hunt turkeys on private land during the West River spring turkey season.

COMMISSION REJECTS 500 NONRESIDENT SPECIAL BUCK LICENSES EAST RIVER
PIERRE, S.D. – The Game, Fish and Parks Commission rejected a proposal to establish 500 nonresident, special buck licenses for East River at their March meeting.

GFP COMMISSION CHANGES FLATHEAD CATFISH LENGTH LIMIT RESTRICTION
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission has established a length limit on flathead catfish. The new rule limits the harvest of flathead catfish 30 inches or longer to one per day on inland waters, as part of the catfish daily limit. The original proposal was made at the November commission meeting and included all waters in the state, including border waters, and originated from the public petition process.

GFP COMMISSION CHANGES TUNDRA SWAN, DUCK SEASONS, YOUTH WATERFOWL SEASONS
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission finalized changes to three waterfowl hunting seasons at their March meeting.

BIGHORN SHEEP SEASON WILL HAVE INCREASED OPPORTUNITIES
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission voted to allow up to a total of eight bighorn sheep licenses for the 2020 season. Of the eight licenses, one will be an auction license and the revenue specifically used for bighorn sheep management.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 13
Effective at 11 a.m. CDT, March 16, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will be REMOVED from the road segment shown in the table below.

Board of Regents

SD Special Schools Make Adjustments for COVID-19 Virus
In light of Governor Noem’s order to close K-12 schools next week, officials at the South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the School for the Deaf are taking action.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs Seven Bills
Governor Kristi Noem today signed the following pieces of legislation:

Agriculture

Governor’s Ag Ambassador Nominations Sought
Governor Noem is seeking nominations for the 2020 South Dakota Governor’s Ag Ambassador Award.

Transportation

Highway 16A Surfacing Project in Keystone to Begin
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a milling and resurfacing project on Highway 16A in Keystone will be beginning Monday, March 23, 2020.

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 12
Effective at Noon CDT, March 13, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

Board of Regents

Public University System Responds to COVID-19 Virus
Public universities across South Dakota will extend their spring break by one week and cancel non-essential travel in an effort to reduce the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.

Veterans Affairs

THEY PROTECTED YOU – HELP US PROTECT THEM
The Michael J. Fitzmaurice State Veterans Home (Home) is taking preventive measures to ensure continued care for our residents in a safe and healthy environment.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs Seven Bills
Governor Kristi Noem signed the following legislation today:

Environment and Natural Resources

DENR to Host 32nd Annual Environmental and Ground Water Quality Conference
The 32nd Annual Environmental and Ground Water Quality Conference will be held March 18-19 at the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center in Pierre.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 11
Effective at 11 a.m. MDT, March 12, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will change for the road segments listed below. The restrictions are in place for excessive road break-up, rutting and heaving caused by high moisture in Fall 2019.

Highway 385 Ditch Closure Being Proposed South of Lead
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is proposing to close a segment of the ditch along U.S. Highway 385 in Lawrence County to off-road vehicles.

Revenue

Tax assessment freeze program deadline approaching
Elderly and disabled South Dakotans have until April 1 to apply for property tax relief under South Dakota’s Assessment Freeze for the Elderly and Disabled Program.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s March Column – Transportation Options for Veterans
Getting to and from medical appointments can be a great challenge for veterans in South Dakota. No one knew that better than Royce Loesch, past commander of American Legion Post 20 in Fort Pierre.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Statement Regarding Coronavirus in South Dakota
Governor Kristi Noem today issued the following statement regarding COVID-19:

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 10
This replaces the release sent on Feb. 27, 2020 as #5. U.S. Highway 81 has been updated to 6 Ton/Axle on March 11, 2020 at 1 p.m. CDT.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 13 Bills
Governor Kristi Noem today signed the following pieces of legislation:

Environment and Natural Resources

DENR Fines the City of Fort Pierre for Surface Water Violations
The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has fined the City of Fort Pierre (City) $52,030 for Surface Water Discharge Permit violations at its wastewater treatment facility.

Tourism

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO PERFORM AT POETRY CONTEST
The South Dakota State Poetry Out Loud Competition is Monday, March 16, in Sioux Falls.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 4 Amended (SD45)
Updates SD 45 from US 212 to US 14 to 7 Tons/Axle

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 9
Effective at 1 p.m. CDT, March 9, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will be REMOVED from the road segment shown in the table below.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Preserving our Veterans Town
In early March – after years of persistent requests – Secretary Wilkie visited Hot Springs, and we FINALLY have a commitment to keep Hot Springs open and to revisit the record of decision.

Agriculture

Enhanced Fire Danger Today through Sunday
Enhanced fire danger is expected today through Sunday across western and southern South Dakota.

Education

Cultural Heritage Center’s Family Fun Saturday on March 14 offers “Tropical South Dakota”
Visitors to the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre can create their own tropical South Dakota terrarium with sand, small dinosaurs and greenery at Family Fun Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT on March 14.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Commission Continues Nest Predator Bounty Program for 2020
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission has voted in favor of conducting a nest predator bounty program again in 2020.

GFP Commission Continues Nest Predator Bounty Program for 2020
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission has voted in favor of conducting a nest predator bounty program again in 2020.

Veterans Affairs

NOMINATIONS FOR FALLEN HEROES BRIDGE DEDICATIONS DUE APRIL 10
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs is now accepting nominations for South Dakota’s new “Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication” program. The first South Dakota state bridge was dedicated in November of 2019.

Housing Development

SDHDA Hosting Public Meeting on Housing and Community Development Plans
South Dakota Housing Development Authority, in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, will be hosting a public meeting to solicit comments on the drafts of the 2019 Annual Performance Report, the 2020 Annual Action Plan, and the 2020-2021 allocation plans for the HOME, Housing Tax Credit, Housing Opportunity Fund, Emergency Solutions Grants Program and the Housing Trust Fund programs

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem, DOH Continue Statewide Effort to Prepare for COVID-19
Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Health (SDDOH) today hosted a web discussion with more than 600 South Dakota health professionals to highlight statewide efforts to prepare for COVID-19, commonly known as coronavirus.

Agriculture

April 6 Deadline for Urban and Community Forestry Grant
South Dakota communities, non-profit organizations, and tribes are encouraged to apply for the 2020 Urban and Community Forestry Comprehensive Challenge Grant.

Transportation

Highway 87 Closed for Culvert Repair
The South Dakota Department of Transportation has closed Highway 87 at the junction of Highway 16, south of Hill City.

Revenue

Owner-occupied property tax relief deadline approaching
Homeowners and contractors have until March 15 to apply for property tax relief through the owner-occupied program.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 16 Bills
Governor Kristi Noem today signed the following pieces of legislation

Noem Bill to Streamline Economic Growth Receives Broad Support from South Dakota Organizations
The following organizations have expressed their support for SB157, Noem’s legislation to ensure economic progress is possible for all of South Dakota’s communities:

Public Safety

Change Clocks – and Smoke Alarm Batteries – This Weekend
PIERRE, S.D. – Before changing your clocks Saturday night, South Dakota’s State Fire Marshal encourages people to also change the batteries in their smoke alarms.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 8
Effective at 11 a.m. MST, March 4, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

Board of Regents

Trefz Named School for the Blind and Visually Impaired Superintendent
A long-time South Dakota educator has been named the next superintendent of the South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Aberdeen.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Advanced Ag Products Approved for REDI Fund Loan
CANTON, S.D. – Advanced Ag Products (AAP), a company specializing in animal feed ingredients and supplements for livestock, aquaculture, pets and companion animals, in Canton, was recently approved for a $787,500 REDI (Revolving Economic Development & Initiative) Fund loan.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs Six Bills
Governor Kristi Noem signed the following legislation today

Noem Names Venhuizen Chief of Staff
Governor Kristi Noem announced today that she will name Tony Venhuizen as her new chief of staff. Venhuizen, who has been working with the Governor’s Office on a temporary basis since January, will be leaving his private law practice to rejoin state government.

Public Safety

Names Released In Deuel County Fatal Crash
TORONTO, S.D. – A Kearney, NE woman has been identified as the person who died Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash west of Toronto.

March Sobriety Checkpoints Announced
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety has released its March list of sobriety checkpoints scheduled throughout the state.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 7 - Edited
Effective at 11 a.m. MST, March 3, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Paving a Path for Economic Progress
This year, I have requested another $5 million to continue equipping businesses in every corner of our state with this necessary tool for growth. Working with the legislature, I’m confident we can find a way to secure broadband to develop the next generation of South Dakota communities and pave the way for economic progress.

Education

Her Vote. Her Voice. Campaign to Celebrate 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage in South Dakota
In celebration of Women’s History Month in March, a delegation of women appointed by Governor Kristi Noem is kicking off a celebratory campaign, called “Her Vote. Her Voice.” which aims to celebrate and commemorate 100 years of women’s right to vote.

Public Safety

Deuel County Fatal Crash
TORONTO, S.D. – One person died Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash west of Toronto.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 6
Effective at 1 p.m. CST, March 2, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs Legislation to Protect and Help Victims of Human Trafficking
Governor Kristi Noem today signed legislation to better protect and help victims of human trafficking in South Dakota.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP March Commission Meeting to be held in Pierre, Begins at 10 A.M.
PIERRE, S.D. - The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission will hold their monthly meeting at the Pierre Ramkota River Center on March 5-6.

Health

South Dakota Prepares for COVID-19
State health officials today outlined South Dakota’s steps to prepare for community spread of COVID-19, as well as what South Dakotans can do now. To date, no one in South Dakota has tested positive for COVID-19.

Transportation

Highway 52 Grading Project from Tabor to Springfield Delayed
South Dakota Department of Transportation officials say the reconstruction of Highway 52 from Tabor to Springfield will be delayed from a 2020 construction year to 2021.

Bridge Improvement Grant Recipients Announced
The South Dakota Transportation Commission awarded 27 Preservation, Rehabilitation, and Replacement Bridge Improvement Grants (BIG) totaling approximately $14 million to local governments at their meeting today in Pierre.

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 4
Effective at 10 a.m. CST, March 2, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

Board of Regents

State Capitol Hosts Student Researchers March 4
South Dakota colleges and universities will send 13 outstanding undergraduate student researchers to the State Capitol next week to share their research work with lawmakers and the public.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Appoints BIT Commissioner
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that Jeffrey Clines will join her cabinet as Commissioner of the Bureau of Information and Telecommunications (BIT). The appointment will be effective April 6.

Noem Signs Legislation to Protect South Dakota Waters from Invasive Species
Governor Kristi Noem today signed legislation to protect South Dakota’s public waters and prevent the spread of invasive species.

Labor and Regulation

Afdahl Named to FDIC Advisory Committee of State Regulators
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has announced the selection of 15 members for its recently established Advisory Committee of State Regulators. This includes South Dakota Banking Director Bret Afdahl.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs Bill to Rename South Dakota’s Technical Institutes as "Technical Colleges"
Governor Kristi Noem today signed legislation to change the names of South Dakota’s four postsecondary technical institutes to better align the schools with other institutes around the nation.

Game, Fish and Parks

Fish Houses Must Be Removed by March 1
PIERRE, S.D. - The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) reminds ice anglers that all fish houses, shelters and other structures must be removed from the ice by midnight on Saturday, Feb. 29. Fish houses, shelters and other structures may be used after this date, but must be removed from the ice on a daily basis.

Public Safety

State, Yankton County To Offer EOC Training
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Yankton County Emergency Management will hold a workshop this Thursday designed to train local responders on how to set up and operate a local Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during emergencies and disasters.

Transportation

ADA Upgrades to Begin on Mt Rushmore Road
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says ADA sidewalk upgrades at the intersections of Main Street, St. Joseph Street, and Kansas City Street on Mt. Rushmore Road in Rapid City will begin on Monday, March 2, 2020.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs 14 Bills
Governor Kristi Noem today signed the following pieces of legislation:

Human Services

Adult Nutrition Month
Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed March Adult Nutrition Month (ANM) in South Dakota.

Transportation

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 3
Effective at 10 a.m. CST, Feb. 28, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE 2
Effective at 1 p.m. CST, Feb. 25, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

SPRING LOAD RESTRICTION PRESS RELEASE #1
Effective at 10 a.m. CST, Feb. 27, 2020, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will apply to the road segment and at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

Storm Moving Into Western SD to Create Travel Difficulties
Officials are cautioning travelers that a winter storm currently making its way into South Dakota, will likely make travel difficult in the western and central parts of the state, especially the Black Hills, this afternoon through Tuesday.

Department of Transportation Seeks Public Input into the I-229 Exit 9 (Benson Road) Interchange Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with the Sioux Falls Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and the City of Sioux Falls, will hold a public open house from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27 at the Sioux Falls Water Reclamation Facility, 4500 North Sycamore Avenue.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs Legislation to Reduce Regulations, Make Business Easier for South Dakotans
Governor Kristi Noem this week signed five bills into law that reduce regulations and make business easier for South Dakotans.

Education

Newly accredited public libraries honored in Capitol rotunda
Thirteen South Dakota public libraries have been accredited by the State Library in 2020. They were recently honored in front of lawmakers, library colleagues and community members at the Capitol rotunda during an event held in conjunction with the annual South Dakota Library Association Library Legislative Day.

Public Safety

Name Released In Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
PARKSTON, S.D. – A Tripp, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Tuesday in a one-vehicle crash south of Parkston.

Transportation

Culvert Work in Harding, Butte, Meade & Perkins Counties
Starting next week, Feb. 24, crews will begin installing and repairing culverts in Harding, Butte, Meade, and Perkins counties.

Veterans Affairs

South Dakota’s Bonus for Active Duty Service Since 1990
South Dakota’s Bonus for Active Duty Service Since 1990.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Creating Fairness for Businesses and Families
In mid-February, I testified before the Senate State Affairs Committee in favor of legislation that would help make this dream a reality. Our world isn’t static, and if we’re going to keep our state’s business environment competitive, we must keep things fair, open, and honest.

Governor Kristi Noem

Following Noem Testimony, Senate State Affairs Committee Strongly Supports SB 157
Governor Kristi Noem today testified before the Senate State Affairs Committee in support of legislation that will ensure economic progress is possible for all of South Dakota’s communities (SB 157). This was the first time a governor has testified before a committee in more than a decade.

Game, Fish and Parks

Register for Pelican Lake’s Becoming an Outdoor Family Event
WATERTOWN, S.D. – Registration for Pelican Lake Recreation Area’s Becoming an Outdoor Family event opens Saturday, Feb. 29, at 7 a.m. CST.

Agriculture

Governor Announces South Dakota Conservation Commission Appointments
Governor Kristi Noem has appointed Doug Hansen of Webster, Charlie Moe of Rosebud, Bill Coburn of Spearfish, and Dusty Rodiek of Brookings to the State Conservation Commission.

Public Safety

Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
PARKSTON, S.D. – One person died Tuesday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash south of Parkston.

Name Released In Lake County Fatal Crash
MADISON, S.D. – A Wentworth, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Friday night in a one-vehicle crash south of Madison.

Public Safety

Lake County Fatal Crash
MADISON, S.D. – One man died Friday night in a one-vehicle crash south of Madison.

Name Released In Marshall County Fatal Crash
VEBLEN, S.D. – A Veblen, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died early Wednesday morning in a one-vehicle crash east of Veblen.

Name Released In Meade County Fatal Crash
PIEDMONT, S.D. – A Rapid City, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Tuesday night in an one-vehicle crash east of Piedmont.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Signs Eight Bills
Governor Kristi Noem has signed the following bills during the 2020 legislative session:

Governor's Column: Driving Economic Growth, Protecting Local Control
South Dakota is the best state in the nation to do business. We have a lot of great things going for us – low taxes, low regulations, a strong work ethic – but we must constantly work to expand our horizons and advance our communities. We’re aggressively pursuing new industries and businesses that create good-paying jobs for our kids and grandkids. As we do that, we must also take a close look at existing issues that may hold back progress.

Noem, Flute, Ravnsborg Invite Tribes to Engage in MOUs for Expanded Law Enforcement Resources
Governor Kristi Noem, Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg, and Secretary of Tribal Relations David Flute yesterday invited tribal leaders and members to engage in a partnership to combine state and tribal law enforcement resources to combat drug use on reservations.

Education

Jackrabbit Tales to be told in Cultural Heritage Center program
V.J. Smith will tell tales about South Dakota’s only land grant institution will be told during a Feb. 24 program at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Celebration of women’s suffrage continues March 1 at Cultural Heritage Center
The nationwide celebration of women’s suffrage continues at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre at 2 p.m. CST on Sunday, March 1,with a presentation by Liz Almlie entitled, “A Movement of Many: Stories of Women’s Suffrage in South Dakota.”

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Hopes to Reopen Randall Creek Campground in Time for Memorial Day
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) officials say the campground at Randall Creek Recreation Area near Pickstown could be for ready for campers as early as mid-May.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem, Art Leaders Announce Inaugural Governor’s Student Art Competition
Governor Kristi Noem announced the South Dakota Governor’s Student Art Competition, a new program to promote visual art among students in South Dakota.

Agriculture

Funds Available for Specialty Crop Advancement
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) announces that funds will be available for Specialty Crop Block Grants.

Transportation

Portion of Highway 10 Closing for Bridge Replacement
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin bridge replacement work on Highway 10 from Leola to Highway 281 on Monday, Feb. 17, 2020.

Public Safety

Marshall County Fatal Crash
VEBLEN, S.D. – One male died early Wednesday morning in a one-vehicle crash east of Veblen.

Meade County Fatal Crash
PIEDMONT, S.D. – One person died and another person was seriously injured in a one-vehicle crash Tuesday night east of Piedmont.

Name Released In Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
PARKSTON, S.D. – A Yankton, S.D. female has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Parkston.

Tourism

ARTS COUNCIL ACCEPTING ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE APPLICATIONS
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) is now accepting grant applications for its Artists in Schools and Communities (AISC) residency program.

Agriculture

2020 South Dakota Wildland Fire Academy Registration Open
Registration is now open for the 2020 South Dakota Wildland Fire Academy which will be held in Fort Pierre, South Dakota on March 19-22. The academy is hosted by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s Wildland Fire Division with assistance from their federal partners.

Education

State Historical Society seeks nominations for Governor’s Awards, board positions
The South Dakota State Historical Society in Pierre is seeking nominations for the annual Governor’s Awards for History and two positions on its board of trustees.

Game, Fish and Parks

Summer Camping Reservations Open Soon in State Parks
This weekend, campers can begin making reservations for summer stays in South Dakota State Parks.

Public Safety

It’s Time to Prepare for Spring Flooding And That Includes Flood Insurance
Anyone who has grown up in South Dakota can tell you how important it is to keep an eye on the weather. Weather extremes are a part of life here and in fact we take pride in our ability to handle weather that many others cannot. The last year was no exception and many South Dakotans are still feeling the impact of last year’s storms that resulted in federal disaster declarations for 63 of our 66 counties.

Transportation

PROPOSED SPRING LOAD RESTRICTIONS FOR 2020
Spring Load Restrictions in South Dakota can be placed on state highways between Feb. 15 – April 30, 2020.

Agriculture

South Dakota State Fair Looking for Artists and Authors to Feature
The South Dakota State Fair is seeking interested artists and authors to be showcased during the fair in the Arts and Education Building.

Education

State Historical Society holding preservation essay contest
The State Historic Preservation Office of the South Dakota State Historical Society in Pierre is holding an essay contest for fourth-grade students. Prizes will be awarded to the top three essays during Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month, which is celebrated in May.

Game, Fish and Parks

Game, Fish and Parks Accepting Proposals for Spring Creek Restaurant and Convenience Store Concession Operators
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is offering interested entrepreneurs the opportunity to operate two unique businesses, a restaurant and convenience store, within the Spring Creek Recreation Area in central South Dakota.

Chronic Wasting Disease Detected in New Areas
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) was recently confirmed in the counties of Butte, Corson and Haakon in western South Dakota, from samples provided by hunters. One male white-tail deer from both Butte and Corson counties tested positive, while two male mule deer tested positive from Haakon County.

Public Safety

Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
PARKSTON, S.D. – One person died early Sunday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Parkston.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Saturday, February 8, 2020, to honor the life of Bernie Christenson, a former state leader and legislator.

Governor's Column: Growing South Dakota's Communities
Communities are the heartbeat of South Dakota. As I travel across the state, I hear this over and over: people love our state, and they want to preserve our special way of life for generations to come.

Governor Kristi Noem

WTAS: Ag, Business, Community Leaders Support Noem’s Legislation to Streamline Rural Development
Governor Kristi Noem last week announced that she will introduce legislation that provides certainty and predictability for businesses and operations looking to open or expand in rural South Dakota.

Education

Students visit Pierre for CTSO Legislative Shadow Day
February is National Career and Technical Education Month. As part of the celebration, 37 student leaders came to Pierre Feb. 4-5, for the South Dakota Career and Technical Student Organizations’ Legislative Shadow Day.

Education

Learn about legendary outlaws at Cultural Heritage Center program
Pierre author Bill Markley will compare the lives of two of the most notorious outlaws in the American West in a Feb. 11 program at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Public Safety

Name Released In Bon Homme County Fatal Crash
TYNDALL, S.D. – A 60-year-old man from Tyndall has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning in a one-vehicle crash south of Tyndall.

Transportation

U.S. Highway 212 set to open in Watertown
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says contractor Reede Construction will open the remaining portion of Highway 212 in Watertown, including the recently constructed Big Sioux River Bridge, on Thursday, Feb. 6.