This bill appropriates $1,000,000 from the general fund to the South Dakota Department of Health for grants aimed at supporting the purchase and operation of telehealth kiosks in publicly accessible locations. A telehealth kiosk is defined as a standalone, interactive terminal that enables individuals to access remote healthcare services without needing an in-office visit, while also providing general educational and preventative health information. The Department of Health is tasked with prioritizing grants for kiosks located in counties with populations of 15,000 or less and an average life expectancy below the state median, as well as in communities with limited access to primary healthcare professionals.

Additionally, the bill outlines that the Department of Health will develop an application process for these grants, which will be made available on its website. The secretary of the Department of Health is responsible for approving vouchers, and the state auditor will handle the payment of authorized expenditures. Any unspent or unobligated funds from this appropriation will revert according to established procedures. The provisions of this Act will take effect on June 30, 2025.