Details from District 2: As session winds down, there's work to be done
Dear Readers,
Let’s dive into the latest from the world of legislation here in Pierre.
We’ve been crunching numbers like never before, striving for that perfect balance between fiscal responsibility and progress. Our budget discussions aren’t just about dollars and cents; they’re about shaping the future of our state in a way that reflects our shared vision. Those discussions will intensify in the coming weeks as the House and Senate fight for their priorities.
In terms of education, we’re making strides with the One-Year CTE accreditation bill. This legislation aims to address teacher shortages in specialized fields like mechanics by streamlining accreditation processes.
Moreover, I’ve been proud to sponsor the Age-Appropriate Internet Bill for Schools, a measure designed to safeguard our students’ online experiences and provide parents with essential information.
On the topic of teacher support, HB 1148 is headed to the Senate. This bill seeks to set a minimum salary floor for teachers in South Dakota, a crucial step in recognizing the invaluable contributions of our educators.
In agriculture, we recently passed HB 1231, the Foreign-Owned Agriculture Land Bill, which restricts certain foreign governments from owning land in our state.
As we near the end of the legislative session, I want to extend my gratitude to Representatives Kull, Sjaarda, and our constituents for their engagement and support. Special thanks to the Chamber for hosting insightful Cracker Barrels at Bethany Meadows.
The session may be winding down, but there’s still work to be done, particularly finalizing the budget and addressing remaining issues.
On a personal note, I’m thrilled to announce my candidacy for re-election. With your support, I’ve filed my petitions and look forward to serving you once again.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. I hope to see you at Loyalty Day or another community event soon. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns or ideas.
Warm regards,
Senator Steve Kolbeck District 2
Brandon
