Heinemann Sponsors High School Page for Legislative Session

Over 700 bills heard this session, with just one veto so far

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:04pm

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A cinematic painting of a state capitol building in warm, golden light, with a lone figure standing on the steps, conveying the quiet contemplation of civic engagement.A legislative page program provides high school students a rare glimpse into the inner workings of state government, inspiring future civic participation.Dell Rapids Today

Representative Leslie Heinemann sponsored Abigail Lewis, a senior from Flandreau High School, as a page for the last week of the South Dakota legislative session. This session saw over 700 bills heard, with the Governor having vetoed just one bill so far, which will be considered on veto day on March 30.

Why it matters

Sponsoring high school students as legislative pages is a common practice that allows young people to gain firsthand experience and insight into the political process. This particular sponsorship highlights the active engagement of a state representative with their local community and the opportunities they provide for students to participate in state government.

The details

Representative Heinemann, who represents the Flandreau area, invited senior Abigail Lewis to serve as a page during the final week of the legislative session. As a page, Lewis had the chance to observe the legislative process, assist lawmakers, and gain valuable experience in state government.

  • The legislative session ran from January to March 2026.
  • Abigail Lewis served as a page during the final week of the session.
  • The Governor has vetoed one bill so far, which will be considered on veto day on March 30.

The players

Representative Leslie Heinemann

A state representative who represents the Flandreau area and sponsored a high school student to serve as a legislative page.

Abigail Lewis

A senior at Flandreau High School who served as a legislative page during the final week of the 2026 South Dakota legislative session.

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What they’re saying

“Sponsoring high school students as legislative pages is a valuable opportunity for young people to gain firsthand experience in the political process.”

— Representative Leslie Heinemann, State Representative

What’s next

The Governor's lone veto of the session will be considered on veto day, March 30, where the legislature will decide whether to override the veto.

The takeaway

This sponsorship highlights the importance of providing educational opportunities for young people to engage with state government and the legislative process, fostering the next generation of civic leaders.