South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden has signed five bills into law aimed at supporting agriculture and rural communities, including a measure to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas.
Among the bills signed was House Bill 1048, which provides an appropriation for the expansion of broadband access, a priority Rhoden said is critical to strengthening opportunities in rural parts of the state.
“Our ag industry and rural communities are the heartbeat of our state,” Rhoden said in a statement. “By investing in rural broadband, we create new opportunities for rural South Dakotans to be connected without having to relocate to find success.”
In addition to the broadband measure, Rhoden signed Senate Bill 131, which revises the season during which nonprofit organizations may host special pheasant hunts for disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients.
He also approved Senate Bill 231, which creates a water infrastructure development fund and provides funding for grants and loans for certain rural water projects. The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately.
Two other measures signed by the governor focus on agriculture and tax policy. House Bill 1254 exempts soil amendments used exclusively for agricultural purposes from sales tax, while House Bill 1263 removes an exclusion from the definition of an agricultural equipment dealer.
With the latest bill signings, Rhoden has signed 239 bills into law during this legislative session and vetoed two. According to the governor’s office, no additional bills remain awaiting action.