South Dakota Lawmakers Tackle Property Taxes, Education, and AI in Second Half of Legislative Session

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South Dakota lawmakers are in the second half of their 38-day legislative session, with House committees considering proposals to reduce property taxes, regulate nicotine and vaping, and limit local control of mining. In the Senate, debates are focused on family law changes, charter schools, and requiring AI chatbot disclosures. Budget writers are also reviewing funding for airports, water, special education, and school meals.

Why it matters

As the legislative session reaches its midpoint, South Dakota lawmakers are tackling a range of high-profile issues that could significantly impact residents, businesses, and the state's economy. The debates over property taxes, education funding, and AI regulations reflect the key priorities and concerns of constituents.

The details

House committees are weighing several property tax proposals, including plans to reduce taxes on owner-occupied homes, cap annual valuation increases, and redirect sales tax revenue toward school construction. Other House bills address nicotine and vaping regulations, right-to-repair rules for farm equipment, and limits on local control of mining operations. In the Senate, lawmakers are debating family law changes, charter school legislation, and a proposal requiring companies to disclose when consumers are interacting with AI chatbots that could mislead or deceive them. Budget writers are also reviewing funding for airports, water infrastructure, special education, and school meals.

• Today marks day 22 of the 38-day session.