Birthday Week

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Pastor James Proctor, my pastor, of South Canyon Baptist Church gave the opening prayer for the House floor session on my birthday (not planned). God’s timing is perfect!

Governor Larry Rhoden, his twin sister and I share the same birth date. It was an honor to celebrate at the South Dakota National Guard Military Ball.

Life at the Capitol wasn’t all about celebrating. In Appropriations, we have lots of work to do. This week we had a meeting with the statewide Economic Advisors. Some of the advisor believe that the Big Beautiful Bill will help prop up the economy in the short term. Farther down the proverbial road, declining student enrollment will impact future educational budgets.

Other meetings included the board of technical education, and two days of the Board of Regents briefings from presidents of the colleges and universities. Our final briefing was from the Legislative Audit Department. The operation of this department garnered high praise from appropriators.

It’s great to meet House page Harlie from the city of Faith which is in my district.

Bill highlights:

HB 1056 (Passed 58-11) requires the DSS to submit a federal waiver request to exclude soft drinks from the supplemental nutrition assistance program. I signed on to the bill, however, I voted no because it increases administrative costs for retailers and may require the state to spend additional funds to administer.

HB 1124 (Failed 21-48) required strict penalties for the crime of trespass upon a place of worship. I voted no and spoke out against this bill. I was concerned that someone just objecting at a marriage ceremony might fall under this bill and be convicted of a felony. Also, we already have laws in place to punish people in these situations.

SB 85 (Failed 29-39) required an election for an excess tax levy of a school district. I voted yes and gave an impassioned speech on the house floor. This was a property tax bill. I believe the taxpayer, who is paying the bills, should have a say about opt outs that raise taxes.

HB 1164 (my bill) a fertility fraud bill passed the Judiciary Committee unanimously and will be voted on next week.

Upcoming Week:

HB 1280 (my bill) is a drone bill designed to prevent surveillance of military installations. This will be heard in House Military and Veterans Affairs on Monday, February 9th.

HB 1287 (my bill) is about putting mines that use explosives under stricter regulations. This came about due to upcoming mining in the Black Hills area. The hearing is set for Thursday, February 12th at 7:45 am in House Ag and Natural Resources in room 414. HB 1287, another mining bill, will be heard at the same committee hearing. Anyone wanting to testify remotely must register 24 hours prior to the hearing.

Please pray that I will walk in humility and have wisdom as I serve all South Dakotans. Thank you for trusting me to serve you.

God bless,

District 29 Representative Terri Jorgenson