By Rep. Leslie Heinemann, District 8
After finishing up the first week of the 89th legislative session, the tone seems to be very positive. We listened to Governor Daugaard’s State of the State address on Tuesday. He emphasized the need to develop the state’s workforce and addressed some ways to approach our state-wide problem. Chief Justice Gilbertson addressed a joint session of the House and Senate and gave us a report of implementation of the unified judicial system changes that were made as a result of legislation in 2013.
We are happy to have Senator Chuck Jones join us in Pierre. He has been very diligent in working to learn the details of serving as your Senator in District 8. I look forward to working with him on issues that concern the constituents of our district.
Several topics of interest have come up,  but as of this date, only a few bills have been officially filed. There are still many bills in the stage of research and development. Please go to the LRC Web site www.legis.sd.gov to see what has been filed and what is the content of each bill.
I attended the National Guard breakfast on Friday morning. The 1742nd National Guard unit was mentioned and is the only state unit now deployed. It was quite apparent the pride the legislators have for our military and we pray for them and their families.
I also attended receptions for Big Sioux Rural Water and Sioux Valley Energy and had a chance to discuss upcoming legislation with the various board members.
After hearing the news of the water supply being compromised in the city of Madison, I am glad to see that they have been able to minimize the inconviences created during this situation. Thanks to all who put forth such effort in difficult weather conditions.
Please let me know if you will be out in Pierre so I can plan my schedule to meet and greet you. You can contact me at Rep.Heinemann@state.sd.us or the House of  Representative phone is 605-773-3851.