I have now completed my first two weeks of the 2017 legislative session. There is a lot to catch up on as I was not present in Pierre for the first three weeks of the session.  I was honored to be asked by Governor Daugaard to serve for the remainder of the current term.  I have always had an interest in how state government works and now have an opportunity to be a part of the process.
I serve on the Education & Taxation committees and have voted on several bills.  Testimony was offered in support of HB1133 that would develop a plan for testing of high functioning students with learning disabilities that do not qualify for special education services.   It was passed out of committee and sent to the floor for debate in the near future.
On the taxation side, HB1149 was brought forward to  revise fees for telecommunication services.  Interesting testimony was offered by the deaf community.  That bill was also sent to the floor for vote by the full House.
HB 1052 was passed to provide protections for public employees who report violations of the law (whistleblower).  Also under consideration this week is HB 1073 which deals with revision and repeal of certain provisions regarding gifts from registered lobbyists to public officials. These bills were brought to deal with the repeal and replacement of HB1069 issues.
I appreciate the  many e-mails and other correspondence I have received from interested parties from District 8.  I welcome your input on any subject before the House.  Thank you for your patience as I learn more about the legislative process.