Environment

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.

HB 1181 prohibits the injection, release, or dispersal of specific chemicals (including aluminum barium, strontium, sulfur dioxide, and other substances known to cause health issues) into the atmosphere for weather or climate modification. It directly affects individuals and businesses engaging in such activities, imposing a minimum $100,000 civil penalty plus $10,000 per day for ongoing violations. The bill creates a monitoring fund to cover enforcement costs (funded by fines), requires airports to report on aircraft equipped for such dispersal, and establishes an online public reporting system for suspected violations. Key mechanisms include mandatory airport reporting, public submission of details (e.g., chemicals used), and departmental rules for investigations and compliance.

SB 38 increases annual fees for certain concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in South Dakota that process manure or wastewater under water pollution permits. It raises fees per animal for specific livestock, including dairy cows ($0.43 from $0.17), other cattle/bison ($0.30 from $0.12), and horses ($0.60 from $0.24). The bill directly affects CAFOs operating under water pollution control permits, excluding livestock auctions, out-of-state operations, and Indian country. The changes modify existing fee rates in Section 34A-2-125.1 of South Dakota law.

Senate Concurrent Resolution 605 is a non-binding resolution recognizing the monarch butterfly's ecological importance and encouraging voluntary conservation efforts in South Dakota. It urges state agencies, local governments, and land managers to preserve existing milkweed habitats where practical and prioritize pollinator-friendly native seed mixes - including milkweed - in plantings that align with land management goals. The resolution specifically emphasizes voluntary cooperation with landowners and agricultural operations, avoiding regulatory impacts, while urging federal agencies to support these efforts through technical assistance. It does not create new legal requirements but formally supports existing conservation practices.

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.

SB 37 appropriates $19.5 million from South Dakota's water and environment fund to the Board of Water and Natural Resources for water and environmental projects, declaring an emergency to expedite funding. The bill funds feasibility studies for regional water systems, hydrology research including a public wetland map, flood control updates for the Big Sioux River, and infrastructure construction in northern South Dakota. It also provides grants and loans for water facilities, solid waste management, and cleanup projects, with local communities and municipalities as direct recipients. The Board will distribute funds according to established terms and conditions, focusing on concrete infrastructure and resource management improvements.