The speeches are done and the bills are beginning to roll up online. The 2020 Legislative Session is underway. We have many topics to discuss, and there is room for all of them.
There will be disagreements, and that’s what we’re here for. I have always believed that there are 105 of us here in the Legislature for a reason. Debate and differences of opinion are exactly what we are here to iron out as we do our best to find the best direction forward for South Dakota.
As chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will primarily discuss financial matters, but there are a few bills I will be directly involved with as the session unfolds. Speaking of finances, the governor hinted during the State of the State address that revenues were looking up.
This is primarily the result of a positive November even though “Cyber Monday” took place in December. This gives some hope for a very positive December. The December numbers paid and reported in January will be released on Feb. 4, so we’ll wait and watch together.
As the Appropriations Committee, we are hearing from members of our caucus, and I also met with the Senate Minority Caucus to discuss priorities with the funds we have available. We will work to find every opportunity to put every dollar we have available to its best possible use.
To track the bills and follow the meeting schedules, go to www.sdlegislature.gov. You’ll find the audio and video links at www.sd.net.
I welcome your feedback and your thoughts on the session at my personal email wiikfor4@gmail.com. It’s the best way to reach me, and I read every email I receive.
Thank you for the opportunity to represent you in the South Dakota Senate.
