Electricity prices in South Dakota have risen just 6.8% over the past four years, far below national increases. PUC leaders warn, however, that growth in large, power-intensive data centers could put pressure on future rates.
South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden reaffirmed his support for the state’s agricultural industry and defended the agricultural property tax system during the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee’s annual Farm Business Banquet. More than 1,000 farmers and ranchers attended the event.
Attorney General Marty Jackley is urging South Dakota shoppers to stay alert for holiday scams, including fake delivery messages and tampered gift cards. The Consumer Protection Division is offering guidance and support for anyone who believes they’ve been targeted.
The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office has postponed the launch of the upgraded SDVotes system to early 2027, citing requests from county auditors for more time to train staff and test the platform. Officials say the system is fully built and secure, with the delay focused solely on user readiness.
Dakota Wesleyan University will host its annual Christmas at Dakota Wesleyan concert on Dec. 12 at the Sherman Center, featuring performances from multiple university ensembles. The community event offers a full evening of seasonal music with limited seating available.
Christmas tree permits for the Black Hills National Forest are now available through Recreation.gov, offering families a convenient way to harvest their own holiday tree. Officials say the program also supports forest health by thinning overcrowded stands.
A Rapid City man has been sentenced to more than 24 years in federal prison for his role in a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Federal prosecutors say the case involved high-speed chases, firearms, and drug trafficking across Rapid City and the Pine Ridge reservation.
With SNAP benefits delayed during the recent government shutdown, Team Buche Cares and Farmers Union Industries have launched statewide efforts to support families facing food insecurity. The groups are distributing 10,000 pounds of pork loin and have already provided $300,000 in SNAP replacement certificates.
South Dakota leaders are recognizing National Rural Health Day, highlighting the state’s rural and frontier communities and honoring Jones County Ambulance Service as the 2025 Community Star. The observance underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare access across rural South Dakota.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune says Congress must return to the traditional appropriations process to fund the government, urging lawmakers to work together after the recent 43-day federal shutdown ended. Thune emphasized that regular order is the most transparent and effective way to pass spending bills.