Fighting for South Dakota’s military, veterans

This week in the legislature we made significant progress for South Dakota’s military, veterans and families. From protecting our National Guard to supporting veterans and tackling rising property taxes, here’s what we’ve been working on for you.
SB 82: Protecting the National Guard
SB 82 was pitched to defend the guard and “bring them home,” but it would have likely defunded them, leaving South Dakota defenseless. Working with Maj. Gen. Mark Morrell, the adjutant general of the South Dakota National Guard, I stood up and said no, and the Senate defeated the bill by a wide margin.
Supporting
Our Veterans:
SCR 603 & SCR 604
Two key resolutions moved forward to support our veterans
SCR 603: Expands transportation options so veterans can access medical care and essential services.
SCR 604: Ensures proper credit transfers for veterans at state schools.
Our veterans sacrificed for our freedom—it’s time to honor their service by making their lives easier.
COVA Amendment: Securing Elections
Election integrity is critical. The Senate passed the Citizens Only Voting Amendment, ensuring only U.S. citizens can vote in our elections. This is a big step toward protecting South Dakota’s elections.
Real Property Tax Relief: SB 191
Rising property taxes are crushing families. That’s why I introduced SB 191, providing immediate relief to homeowners hit hardest by skyrocketing assessments. While I was appointed to the Governor’s Tax Taskforce, I believe the current taskforce proposal doesn’t go far enough. Families need bold action to stay in their homes.
Justice for Emmy: Boating Safety Laws
This week, we passed Emmy’s Law, increasing penalties for negligent boating. Negligence cost Emmy her life, and this law ensures accountability while promoting safer waterways for all South Dakotans.
First Bill Passed: SB 72
My first bill, SB 72, passed the Senate! This common sense measure allows counties to recover autopsy costs from estates when deaths result from criminal actions. It’s a conservative solution that saves taxpayer dollars.
Voting No on SB 83
South Dakota’s ingestion laws are tough for a reason—meth and fentanyl use should remain felonies. Weakening these laws without adequate drug court infrastructure harms communities. I voted no on SB 83, which passed narrowly by one vote.
Join Me at Upcoming Crackerbarrels
Here’s where you can meet me to discuss issues:
Hill City: Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. (Hill City Center)
Rapid City: March 8-9  (Western Dakota Tech)
Unfortunately, I won’t be at the Feb. 15 Crackerbarrel in Hot Springs due to a prior conflict the organizer was made aware of in early January, but I hope to connect with you at the events above.
As always, I’m here to serve you. Reach me anytime at amber.hulse@sdleg
islature.gov.
Let’s keep South Dakota strong, conservative and free!