FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 18, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Signs Open for Opportunity Bills into Law

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden signed three Open for Opportunity bills into law, including SB 102, which supports the community of Deadwood by modifying the distribution of gaming revenues. Governor Rhoden signed SB 102 at the Days of ‘76 Museum. You can find a photo of the signing here.

“I am committed to keeping our communities strong and South Dakota Open for Opportunity – and that is exactly what these bills do,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “In particular, SB 102 will help ensure that Deadwood can continue to grow, thrive, and support our state’s economy for years to come.”

This past fall, Deadwood’s leaders met with the Governor, and they communicated their desire to see this legislation brought forward. Bureau of Finance and Management Commissioner Jim Terwilliger went to work to help deliver a solution through SB 102.

Governor Rhoden also signed the following two bills:

• HB 1215 authorizes counties and municipalities to issue a license for a cigar bar; and
• HB 1245 authorizes municipalities to establish a local funding mechanism for capital improvement projects.

HB 1245 promotes local control, giving South Dakotans a choice to support new projects in their community. It will encourage local communities to plan responsibly and remain Open for Opportunity.

Governor Rhoden has signed 185 bills into law and vetoed one this legislative session.

###