The Sioux Falls City Council is moving toward a five-year extension of its ambulance services contract with Patient Care EMS (PCEMS). During a recent meeting, PCEMS earned praise from residents for its emergency response, despite earlier concerns about the lack of competitive bidding.
A South Dakota legislative study committee is investigating the causes of prison overcrowding, with a focus on sentencing practices and rehabilitation. Officials, including Pennington County State’s Attorney Laura Roetzel, note that sentencing reflects public attitudes.
Mitchell, South Dakota, hosted its first-ever stop in the Nation of Patriots’ annual flag relay, a 115-day, 50-state motorcycle journey that raises funds for disabled American veterans. At the Corn Palace Plaza, the American flag was ceremonially passed by members of the Vietnam Vet Legacy Vet Motorcycle Club, marking a powerful moment in the nationwide effort. The South Dakota chapter of the nonprofit helps veterans in financial crisis, covering essentials like housing and utility bills—with 100% of donations going directly to support.
South Dakota lawmakers are launching a bold initiative to cut the state’s recidivism rate in half, aiming to reduce it from 40% to 20%. A new legislative committee will explore solutions such as expanding addiction treatment, enhancing re-entry programs, and addressing the disproportionate incarceration of Native Americans, who represent 9% of the state’s population but 40% of its prison population.
Two Sioux Falls City Councilors, Richard Thomason and Rich Merkouris, are spearheading efforts to expand the Sioux Falls Regional Airport, a project they say is vital to South Dakota’s economy.
South Dakota closed its fiscal year with a $63 million budget surplus, which, along with $106 million in prison funds, was added to the state’s emergency reserves, now totaling nearly $492 million. Governor Larry Rhoden emphasized the state’s commitment to conservative budgeting and smart fiscal management, even amid a decline in sales tax revenue.
Committee version of the bill authorizes $406 million for projects in South Dakota, $3.4 billion for B-21 procurement
A major legal setback has hit Neighbors Opposing Prison Expansion (NOPE), as the South Dakota Supreme Court ruled against the group’s effort to block construction of a new men’s state prison in rural Lincoln County. The ruling ends a nearly two-year legal battle, but NOPE leaders say they respect the court’s decision and remain committed to their mission.
Sioux Falls-based POET is advancing efforts to reduce its carbon intensity score by launching a new clean energy project near its Big Stone City plant. In partnership with California energy firm Antora and Minnesota-based Otter Tail Power Company, the project aims to cut emissions and support long-term sustainability goals.
South Dakota is investing in its emerging tech sector with the launch of a new seed fund aimed at supporting startups and innovation-driven businesses. The Board of Economic Development has approved a $500,000 loan to Elevate Rapid City to help establish the fund.