PIERRE, S.D. (SDBA) — South Dakota legislators will tackle several high-profile bills Wednesday, as the 100th legislative session enters its 28th day
Bills include measures on government accountability, veterans services, and medical assistance.
The House State Affairs Committee will consider a package of government accountability measures sponsored by the Attorney General’s office during its 7:45 a.m. meeting. The four-bill package includes legislation to expand the state auditor’s investigatory powers and establish protections for state employees who report improper governmental conduct.
Meanwhile, the Joint Committee on Appropriations will hear funding requests for veterans’ services and public transit at 10 a.m., including a grant to assist in constructing a veterans’ skilled trade center.
At their 10 a.m. meeting, Senate State Affairs Committee members will debate a proposed constitutional amendment that would condition expanded Medicaid on federal assistance levels. They will also consider a resolution applying to Congress for a convention to propose a constitutional amendment establishing congressional term limits.
Also, at 10 a.m., the House Judiciary Committee will consider a bill that would revise the penalty for illegal drug ingestion and provide treatment to offenders.
Gov. Larry Rhoden will hold his weekly news conference at 11 a.m., where he is expected to address the administration’s positions on pending legislation, particularly funding for the proposed new men’s prison.
Afternoon floor sessions begin at 2 p.m., with the Senate considering a bill voiding covenants prohibiting firearms possession. The House will vote on measures to expand the State Veterans Cemetery and appropriate funds for sexual assault kits.
The day concludes with an afternoon House State Affairs Committee meeting, where members will examine a bill requiring citizenship status indication on driver’s licenses and ID cards.
By Todd Epp, SDBA