House Democrats are outlining their legislative priorities for the second half of the legislative session.
They say the first half of the session was defined by social issues—like the ban on certain procedures for transgender minors. They’re calling on the legislature to focus on affordable healthcare, funding education, and public safety.
Democrats are pointing to their 28 bills introduced in the state legislature as sensible solutions for South Dakota, and hope the Republican-controlled legislature will give the bills a fair hearing.
House Democrats say they welcome Republicans to take a hard look at Democrats’ legislation. They say they don’t want partisan victories, but bi-partisan successes.
House Minority Leader Jamie Smith is a Democrat from Sioux Falls. He says a good example of this is the industrial hemp bill.
“That’s an example of bringing a bill and bringing a bill and bringing a bill, giving it to a Republican—and look,” Smith says. “It’s not across the finish line and I don’t want to jinx it, but that’s what happens. And we do that year after year.”
The house hemp bill is now in the Senate.
Representative Ryan Cwach of Yankton says Democrats are the only party addressing education funding—while Sioux Falls teachers are protesting over that funding.
“Healthcare costs, too, is something we’ve worked on year in and year out,” Cwach says. “Whether it’s in past years with Medicaid expansion or through bills this year—like my medical reinsurance bill that looks to actually reduce costs for farmers, small businesses and individuals.”
Republican Majority Leader Lee Qualm, of Platte, says a lot of what can be done is budget-driven. He says Republicans need to work with Democrats to see what can get done for education, state employees and long-term care.
Lawmakers will set revenue targets today and craft a budget from there.