SD Senate | 2026-02-17 [Source] Translate

The meeting commenced with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a roll call that confirmed a quorum. The journal from the previous session was approved. Dr. Joy Mueller was recognized as the doctor of the day, and several senators introduced family members, including a group of students from Dubrook High School and a 4-H rodeo ambassador. Governor Larry Roden announced the approval of several Senate Bills, which were submitted to the Secretary of State. Various committees reported on bills, recommending amendments and passage, including Senate Bill 218 and House Bill 1003. Senator Otten moved to refer Senate Bill 126 and House Bill 1056 to the Committee on Senate Appropriations, which passed without discussion. Senator Perry introduced the South Dakota Snow Queen and her court. Senators Roll and Carley moved to deliver Senate Bills 110 and 175 to the floor, which was supported by the Senate. Senator Larson moved to reconsider Senate Bill 150, which had previously lost, citing new information. The motion passed, and Senate Bill 150 was deferred. Senator Grove also moved to reconsider Senate Bill 190, which passed, and introduced an amendment regarding emergency medical treatment for minors without parental consent. The amendment was discussed and passed, with further clarification provided on the rights of parents and existing legal frameworks. The Senate voted on Senate Bill 190, which passed with 19 votes in favor and 15 against. Senator Hohn was granted personal privilege to introduce Dakota Rural Action and acknowledge a former home economics teacher. Committee reports on Senate Bill 208 and Senate Bill 118 were adopted without discussion, and Senate Bill 118 was placed on the calendar for a future date. The meeting included first readings of several House bills and addressed the consent calendar, confirming Senate Bill 138 and the reappointment of Curt D. Hall. The Senate then debated Senate Bill 20, which appropriates funds for tax refunds for elderly persons and those with disabilities, passing with a two-thirds majority. Senate Bill 55, for extraordinary litigation expenses, also passed with a two-thirds majority. Senate Bill 97, concerning property tax revenue limits, was discussed with proposed amendments. Senator Diver's amendment to restore a 3% cap on growth was debated, and a substitute motion to adjust the growth limit to 50% failed. The original amendment passed with 18 votes in favor and 16 against. The discussion highlighted concerns about the implications of the proposed amendments on property tax systems and local government funding. Senate Bill 98, aimed at preventing virtual currency kiosk fraud, was deferred, while Senate Bill 111, enhancing user control over personal data held by social media companies, passed with 34 votes in favor. Senate Bill 146 concerning gubernatorial appointees was tabled, and Senate Bill 179, allowing courts to commit juveniles for certain weapons offenses, passed with 28 votes in favor. Senate Bill 183, improving taxpayer notice regarding excess tax levies, passed with 34 votes in favor. Senate Bill 187, defining "non-public school," was discussed, with concerns raised about adherence to state standards. The bill aimed to consolidate educational regulations and was supported by several senators. Senate Bill 195, which sought to repeal the expiration of a reduction in certain gross receipts and use tax rates, faced significant debate. Senators expressed concerns about the implications for property tax relief and the need for careful budgeting. The bill ultimately failed to pass with a tie vote of 17 yeas and 17 nays. Senate Bill 198, restricting cell phone use by students during the school day, passed with 19 votes in favor and 15 against. The discussion highlighted the impact of cell phone usage on academic performance and behavioral issues. Senate Bill 205, revising registration fees for drones and establishing a fund for drone aviation education, passed with 31 votes in favor. Senate Bill 223, modifying petition requirements for referring excess tax levies of school districts, passed with 20 votes in favor and 14 against. Finally, Senate Bill 227 addressed total loss declarations for motor vehicles after accidents, emphasizing the challenges faced by vehicle owners in the insurance process. The discussion underscored the finality of insurance carriers' decisions regarding total loss declarations.