The third week of session saw some notable bills pass the South Dakota Senate that cut spending and reduce taxes.
Senate Bill 45 repeals the requirement of an annual report by the Board of Regents that discusses intellectual diversity. The current report consists of 149 pages that take thousands of dollars and many hours to prepare. There doesn’t seem to be any real benefit resulting from the existence of this government mandated report. We should continue to bring and pass bills like this that promote government efficiency and save money. SB 45 passed the Senate, 21 – 12; I voted in favor.
HB 1011 reduces employer contribution rates that are used to pay unemployment benefits. This change in rates will be about an 18 million dollar tax cut for South Dakota businesses. South Dakota has a low unemployment rate and a high fund balance in the re-employment fund. The bill was supported by South Dakota business organizations. This huge tax cut will benefit South Dakota without reducing services. HB 1011 passed the Senate, 30 to 3; I voted in favor.
The last day for individual legislators to submit bills will be February 1. Many more bills are likely to be introduced by that day.