South Dakota Legislative Session: Navigating the Landscape for Residential Housing
South Dakota Legislative Session: Navigating the Landscape for Residential Housing
As the South Dakota Legislative session unfolds, the South Dakota Home Builders Association (SDHBA) actively engaged with key bills that impact the residential housing industry. Let’s explore the recent developments and the association’s stance on critical legislative matters.
Each Monday during the SD Legislative Session, members of the South Dakota Home Builders Association reviewed and discussed key bills that affect the residential housing industry. Over the course of the 99th Session, SDHBA took formal action to support seven bills and to oppose one.
As of Monday, March 11, three of the supported bills have been signed into law by Governor Noem, and three bills have either been withdrawn or defeated. One bill has passed and is awaiting the Governor’s signature.
SDHBA opposed SB 145, which would have extended the time frame to report workman compensation claims. The bill was defeated in the Senate Commerce Committee.
Below is a summary of some of the bills SDHBA monitored during the Legislative Session.
SB 12: Authorizing Employer Actions on Cannabis Use
SDHBA took a decisive stance on SB 12, voting to support the legislation. The bill has made significant strides, passing the Senate by a resounding 32:1. After moving through the House Judiciary Committee, the bill passed the House floor 58:7. This legislation addresses employer actions concerning cannabis use by employees or prospective employees, aligning with the evolving landscape of cannabis regulations. Governor Noem signed this bill on February 15, 2024.
SB 39: Firearms Freedom for Homeowners
A noteworthy bill, SB 39, seeks to prohibit homeowners’ associations from restricting firearms or firearm ammunition. The association recognizes the complexity of the matter and respects the diversity of opinions within its membership, and so chose to remain neutral on this issue, but continued to monitor its movement through the Capitol. Passing both the Senate and House, this bill was signed by Governor Noem on February 6, 2024.
SB 81: Expanding Permission on Electric Wiring Installation
The association monitored SB 81, which aims to expand permissions for installing electric wiring in residences. An amendment removed the restriction of the number of accessory units involved; the bill sailed through the Senate Commerce & Energy Committee with unanimous support. SDHBA acknowledges the evolving needs in housing infrastructure and the importance of staying attuned to these changes. SB 81 was delivered to Governor Noem’s office on February 27, 2024.
HB 1041: Immediate Housing Infrastructure Assistance
Acknowledging the urgency of the matter, SDHBA voted to support HB 1041, allowing federally recognized Indian tribes eligibility for housing infrastructure grants and loans. The bill passed the House 52:17 and then passed the Senate with a strong majority of 29:2. The bill was signed by Governor Noem on February 1, 2024.
HB 1082: Property Tax Relief for Disabled Veterans
Supporting the well-being of disabled veterans, SDHBA voted in favor of HB 1082, which changes eligibility requirements and the exempt value of a property tax relief program. The bill successfully passed House Military and Veterans Affairs Committee and House in January. It zipped through Senate Taxation with a favorable 7:0 vote. This bill swiftly passed the Senate and House and was was signed by Governor Noem on March 4, 2024.
HB 1121: Grant for Veteran’s Skilled Trades Center
In a show of support for veterans and skilled trades education, SDHBA endorsed HB 1121, which would have made appropriations for a grant to construct a veteran’s skilled trades center in the Hot Springs area. The bill was deferred to the 41st Day by the House Education Committee on January 31.
HB 1187: Empowering Career and Technical Education
The proposed legislation seeks to empower career and technical education by establishing a specific permit for instructors. Recognizing the importance of fostering skilled trades and vocational education, SDHBA’s support aligns with the association’s commitment to promoting diverse and robust educational opportunities in the state. As we champion the growth of our industry, SDHBA’s endorsement of HB 1187 reflects our dedication to supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of a skilled workforce and the advancement of career-focused education in South Dakota.
The bill effortlessly passed the House with a 67:0 vote in early February. The Senate amended the bill to clarify that a high school diploma or equivalent was a requirement of the individual receiving the instructor educator permit. The House unanimously passed the amendment on February 28. This bill was delivered to Governor Noem on March 5, 2024 and is awaiting its signature.
Let’s Continue to Shape the Future Together!
As the year progresses, SDHBA will remain vigilant and actively participate in shaping policies that impact the residential housing industry. Stay tuned for further updates as we navigate this dynamic legislative landscape together.
Outside of Legislative Session dates, the SDHBA Legislative Committee meets monthly on the second Monday at 12CT/11MT. Those interested in participating should contact the office for additional information.
Peter Ronning
SDHBA Legislative Committee Chairman
