This bill amends South Dakota law to require legislative approval for significant capital expenditures by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks. Specifically, it introduces a new provision that prohibits the Department from acquiring, building, or significantly improving any building, facility, or infrastructure if the cumulative capital expenditure exceeds $2.5 million, unless it first obtains express approval from the Legislature. Additionally, if the Legislature is in recess or between sessions and time is of the essence, the Department may seek approval from a special committee instead.

The bill also stipulates that any contract entered into in violation of this new requirement is voidable by the attorney general. Furthermore, it emphasizes that the Department cannot divide projects into smaller expenditures to circumvent the approval threshold. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance oversight and accountability regarding significant financial decisions made by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/30/2025: 41-2-19, 41-2-21, 41-2-22, 41-2-23, 41-2-24, 41-2-25, 41-2-31, 41-2-34.1, 41-2-34.2, 41-2-35, 41-4-1, 41-4-1.1, 41-4-2, 41-4-3, 41-4-10, 41-17-4, 41-17-14, 41-17-14.1, 41-17-15, 41-2-35.1
Senate Appropriations Engrossed, 02/20/2025: 41-2-19
Enrolled, 03/11/2025: 41-2-19