This bill amends existing laws regarding the Department of Game, Fish and Parks in South Dakota, specifically focusing on capital expenditures. It introduces a new requirement that the Department cannot acquire, build, or significantly improve any physical asset or infrastructure if the cumulative capital expenditure exceeds one million dollars without first obtaining express approval from the Legislature. Additionally, if the Legislature is in recess, the Department may seek approval from a special committee under certain conditions. The bill also prohibits the division of projects to circumvent the approval threshold, declaring any contracts entered into in violation of this provision as void and unenforceable.

The bill further amends several sections of existing law to ensure that all actions taken by the Department, including acquisitions and improvements, are subject to the new approval requirement. It clarifies that any funds received by the Department must be budgeted through the general appropriation bill and that the use of these funds is also subject to the new legislative oversight. Overall, the bill aims to enhance legislative control over significant financial decisions made by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks, ensuring greater accountability and transparency in the management of state resources.

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