The House Natural Resources Committee has unanimously advanced the bipartisan ePermit Act, legislation co-led by Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota to modernize and streamline the federal permitting process. Supporters say the bill would move agencies toward a fully digital, more predictable review system.
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.
The Davison County Regional Railroad Authority has received approval for an additional $5.7 million in low-interest loan funding to complete major rail infrastructure at High Plains Processing south of Mitchell. The investment strengthens one of South Dakota’s largest value-added agriculture projects and expands rail capacity for regional producers.
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Creighton University’s latest Rural Mainstreet Index shows the regional farm economy improving modestly last month, though it continues to sit in negative territory. Low commodity prices and rising costs remain major challenges for producers.
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.
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.
A California man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after admitting to an online scam that stole $472,000 from a Chamberlain resident, according to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office. The case was investigated by state, local, and federal agencies.
Sioux Falls tax collections are showing early signs of recovery, though receipts remain below projected budget levels. City officials say sales tax growth is improving as construction activity continues to surge.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has created a 15-member advisory task force to review the state’s Open Meetings Laws and recommend potential legislative updates. The group will hold its first meeting Nov. 25 in Pierre.