Environment

HB 1173 requires South Dakota's Public Utilities Commission to mandate an environmental impact statement (EIS) for certain utility permit applications before final approval. It specifically applies to applicants seeking permits for carbon dioxide transmission facilities and may require an EIS for other projects if the Commission determines it is necessary under state environmental law (Chapter 34A-9). The bill does not change the permit process itself but adds a requirement for an EIS review, which could affect project timelines and costs for utility developers. This applies to all pending and future permit applications before the Commission.

HB 1294 prohibits any person from conducting geoengineering within South Dakota. The bill defines geoengineering as large-scale climate interventions, specifically including carbon dioxide removal or reflecting sunlight away from Earth. Violating this prohibition is classified as a Class 6 felony. This law directly affects individuals or entities attempting these specific climate interventions within the state. The bill establishes a clear criminal penalty for such actions, focusing on preventing large-scale atmospheric or oceanic climate modification.

HB 1157 creates a 12-member task force to study ecological damage and costs from aquatic invasive species in South Dakota. The task force includes representatives from state agencies (Game, Fish and Parks; Agriculture; Tourism), tribal organizations, water development districts, recreation industries, and environmental groups. It must submit a report by November 2026 detailing prevention strategies, cost estimates, and funding recommendations for addressing invasive species. The bill appropriates $50,000 from the general fund for task force expenses and declares an emergency to expedite implementation.