This bill amends South Dakota law to require legislative approval for significant capital expenditures by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks. Specifically, it modifies section 41-2-19 to stipulate that the Department cannot acquire, build, or significantly improve any building, facility, or infrastructure, nor enter into lease agreements, if the cumulative capital expenditure exceeds $2.5 million, without first obtaining 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 establishes that any contract entered into in violation of these provisions is voidable by the attorney general. It emphasizes that the threshold for approval cannot be circumvented by dividing projects into smaller expenditures. 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