Article Body
For Immediate Release
February 25, 2020
Contact: Kristin Wileman
Noem Signs Bill to Rename South Dakota’s Technical Institutes as "Technical Colleges"
PIERRE, S.D. - 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. HB 1083 renames technical institutes to technical colleges.
“South Dakota’s technical programs produce top-quality graduates for South Dakota’s workforce and help ensure our businesses have the leaders they need to thrive,” said Noem. “The bill I am signing today helps align South Dakota’s colleges with the naming standards used across the country and reflects the excellence demonstrated by our schools.”
HB 1083’s prime sponsors are Representative Hugh Bartels and Senator Jim White. The legislation received broad support throughout the legislative process and was supported by the South Dakota Board of Technical Education, South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and others.
The name change goes into effect on July 1 for technical schools in Watertown, Mitchell, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City.