PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) The second to last week of session has been completed.
House Bill 1065 appropriates four million dollars for a multi-use building at the South Dakota State Fair which would also be used as a sheep barn. The sheep industry along with State Fair is important to District 19 and the whole State of South Dakota. HB 1065 passed, 30 to 4; I voted in favor.
Senate Bill 187 appropriates seven million dollars for a cybersecurity initiative for counties and municipalities. Our local governments need to be protected from cybersecurity threats. I voted in favor; SB 187 passed the Senate, 28 to 5.
I was the House Prime Sponsor for two Education bills which started in the House and made it to the Senate. HB 1201 appropriates 800,000 dollars for the Teacher Apprentiseship Pathway Program. The program takes successful para-educators or teacher aides, and helps them pursue certification to become fully accredited teachers. HB 1187 creates a career and technical education instructor educator permit that can be renewed for one year at a time. This bill allows schools to hire members of the community who meet qualifications to fill these teaching positions when a school is unable to find a certified teacher. HB 1201 passed the Senate; 31 to 3. HB 1187 passed unanimously.
There is one week of session left.
I can be contacted at 605-660-6468 or kyle.schoenfish@sdlegislature.gov.