 
		
	
	Property tax reform is expected to be a top issue when South Dakota legislators return to Pierre in 2026. District 8 Senator Casey Crabtree of Madison says lawmakers will likely face several competing proposals, with the key challenge being how to deliver meaningful tax relief while ensuring schools and counties have the funding they need to operate.
 
		
	
	South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson says the U.S. House has already passed a bill with a continuing resolution to keep the government open, but the Senate has yet to act.
 
		
	
	South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson warns that a federal budget deal is unlikely before the fiscal year ends September 30, raising the risk of a partial government shutdown. Johnson says lawmakers remain at a stalemate over a budget extension as the deadline approaches.
 
		
	
	Davison County commissioners have finalized the 2026 budget, approving more than $8.8 million in property tax revenue and setting aside $100,000 to plan for a potential new jail and public safety building.
 
		
	
	MITCHELL – The McGovern Center at Dakota Wesleyan University will host U.S. Senate candidate […]
 
		
	
	The South Dakota Commission on Gaming warns that private ownership or possession of slot machines is illegal under state law. Following an increase in online sales advertisements, seven unlicensed machines were seized and ordered destroyed. Under SDCL 22-25-13, unapproved slot machines are classified as illegal contraband, carrying Class 1 misdemeanor penalties, fines, and forfeiture.
 
		
	
	Angela Kennecke, founder of Sioux Falls nonprofit Emily’s Hope and host of the Grieving Out Loud podcast, will speak at the National Trail of Truth in Washington, D.C., on September 27, 2025.
 
		
	
	Crews are making steady progress on a $374,000 seat installation project at the Corn Palace in Mitchell. About one-third of the new chairs are installed, each bolted together by hand.
 
		
	
	University of South Dakota professor Michael Hook has returned to the classroom after a federal judge granted a temporary restraining order. Hook sued USD and the Board of Regents, arguing he was unfairly placed on leave over a Facebook post about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, which he says is protected free speech.
 
		
	
	Mitchell’s Deanell Backlund has been named one of 14 nominees for the prestigious Spirit of Dakota Award, South Dakota’s top honor recognizing women for leadership, achievement, and community impact. The 39th annual award will be presented October 4 at the Huron Event Center, with the evening featuring an art show, social, banquet, and the award presentation.
