FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 27, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Signs Education Bills into Law

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden signed six bills that support students and education across the state, including HB 1017, which gives school boards flexibility to find alternative settings for students.

“Our students are the future of our state, and it’s important that we continue to give them the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “This bill helps deliver a safe learning environment without continuous disruption, allowing teachers to teach all students. In turn, this ensures students receive the instruction they need in a location that works best for them.”

Governor Rhoden signed HB 1017 at a bill signing ceremony at Holgate Middle School in Aberdeen. You can find a photo from the signing here.

Governor Rhoden also signed the following five bills:

• SB 106 modifies the amount required to be set aside for extraordinary expenses incurred in providing special education programs;
• HB 1082 establishes parameters for the reimbursement of school districts that provide free or reduced-price meals to students;
• HB 1244 repeals the special donations fund and makes an appropriation to the Department of Education for the provision of a grant to support the Jobs for America's Graduates-South Dakota program;
• HB 1249 amends provisions pertaining to the School Finance Accountability Board, and the process by which a recommendation of the board is approved; and
• HB 1262 makes an appropriation for a non-residential, school-based, therapeutic services facility in Brown County and to declare an emergency.

Governor Rhoden has signed 234 bills into law and vetoed two this legislative session.

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