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Legislative Day Thirty-Three
By Jason | March 5, 2009
Our Legislative Session is approaching the end very soon. Friday, March 13th is the 39th Legislative Day, and then we will return two weeks later and deal with the Governor’s vetoes.
Summer studies are the focus of committee discussion at this point in the Session. I hope that one of the chosen summer studies will center on wind energy issues in South Dakota. Wind energy is on its way all across our state and more specifically in the north half of South Dakota. All parties need to be covered in this study: community-based, corporately-owned, developers, and individual owners. We all need to be informed when making decisions on easements, and always ensure that we receive the fairest price possible. Patience is a characteristic that I continue to work towards in this Legislative process, and I know we can lead the Nation in wind energy production!
Senate Bill 91 passed the State House. SB 91 has been a very interesting bill for our school districts. This bill will allow capital outlay funds to be used to cover energy and insurance costs for three years. I opposed this bill as I feel it disregards the pure intention of the capital outlay fund.
Properly establishing the value of agriculture land continues to be the topic of discussion in the halls of our Capitol. There are a couple of bills that continue to refine the shift towards valuing agriculture property on a production basis instead of market value. I support this change to value land and utilize numbers that are fair for everyone.
Senate Bill 115 received adequate support in the House of Representatives and will be in the Governor’s office for his approval. I supported SB 115 because it is important to all landowners in South Dakota. The intent of this bill is to insure that any landowners who sign a petition to request a hearing of the local planning and zoning board must be registered voters. This bill does not affect a referral vote; it only affects the petition process for a hearing.
The cooperative education bill, SB 136 was narrowly approved by the State House. I have been strongly opposed to this bill and fought hard against it, because it removes the requirement that cooperatives designate 1-5% of their net profit towards cooperative education.
I enjoy serving you and I would like to hear your thoughts on the issues. Please send me an email at rep.frerichs@state.sd.us. I also provide legislative updates on my website: www.jasonfrerichs.com. Feel free to give me a ring anytime at 949-2204 or 773-3851.
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