provide for the study of statewide transit needs and the economic impacts of public transit, and to make an appropriation therefor.

HB 1297 appropriates $125,000 from the general fund to the South Dakota Department of Transportation to study statewide public transit needs and their economic impacts. The study must specifically examine how public transit affects workforce availability and influences Medicaid spending, institutional placements, and healthcare utilization. The Department of Transportation must submit a final report with findings and recommendations to the Legislative Research Council by November 30, 2026. This bill directly affects state transportation planning and provides funding for a specific research project, with no new regulations or services created.