Legislative Days 21-24

Hello again from Pierre!

Another busy week in Pierre is coming to a close. Days 21 through 24 saw 62 votes on the floor.

Votes of note- A few crop producers are disappointed with their advocacy groups that are funded by check off dollars. They can currently request, and are rewarded with, refunds for the check off funds. They felt the process was too difficult & complicated and sought another law be passed to make this easier. I voted no, the bill, HB 1165 failed initially but passed passed on reconsideration.

HB1261 sought to provide uniform rules in public rights of ways. I was a co-sponsor of the bill. Several ag groups support this. There was limited opposition. I voted for it, the bill passed.

HB1239 produced robust floor debate. Ultimately it passed, I voted no.

HB1239 uses the criminal code to enforce rules on librarians. If a librarian issued a book to a minor that was considered in-appropriate the librarian faces fines and jail time under the criminal code. I cannot imagine voting for a bill that jails librarians.   

As always, reach out anytime.