Legislative Chair, Peter Ronning – Insight on the 99th Legislative Session
Legislative Session Kicks Off January 8
Peter Ronning
SDHBA Legislative Committee Chair
Housing affordability has been the topic of focus for the SDHBA Legislative Committee over the last couple of years. Through policy and legislation, I believe this committee impacted new housing costs in 2023. Two major points the committee looked at during the 2023 Legislative Session were energy choice and establishing the SD Housing Infrastructure fund. Through legislation, we were able to prevent any ordinance, resolution, or policy that would limit certain utility services. This lets the homeowner choose their energy source, keeping the costs of those services and appliances competitive. We were also happy to see the passing of SB 41 establishing the SD Housing Infrastructure Fund. Developers can access these funds through loans and grants, saving costs on the development of land and allowing more affordable lots for the consumer. Many loans and grants have already been awarded through this fund in 2023.
As we move into the new year, I am excited to continue as your SDHBA Legislative chair. Housing affordability continues to be top of mind and will be a major focus as the year progresses. Our committee looks to continue addressing the housing affordability issue in part by reviewing new codes and being a part of the code adoption process. In 2023, we began to review the financial impact of future electrical code adoptions. We also began connections with the South Dakota Electrical Commission and are encouraged by the relationship we are building with the Commission. We will continue these conversations and bring forward common-sense amendments during the 2024 code adoption process with a priority to keep the cost of new housing down.
The Legislative Committee is also looking to address housing affordability through policy. The 2024 Legislative Session begins in January, and our weekly committee meetings will start on January 8th. At these meetings, we will review any bill that we believe could impact our industry. We are positive that we can build upon the success of the 2023 session. I would encourage any member interested in policy to join our calls this session. Our committee values the many perspectives our members can bring through such a wide breadth of industry professionals. Participation of our committee members is essential to bringing successful policy forward. I appreciate all the time the members of the Legislative Committee gave in 2023 and look forward to working with you throughout 2024.
Peter Ronning
Continue reading the January 2024 Edition of the SDHBA Nuts & Bolts Digital Magazine: https://bit.ly/January2024NutsandBolts
