Transportation

SB 71 allows South Dakota's Department of Transportation to take over federal environmental review responsibilities for highway projects under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). It directly affects the state DOT and any parties involved in lawsuits related to these highway projects. Key provisions include waiving South Dakota's sovereign immunity (meaning the state can be sued in federal court) for compliance disputes and requiring the state to pay damages and attorney fees from highway funds if it loses such cases. The bill streamlines environmental reviews for state highway projects but does not change federal environmental standards.

SB 24 creates a new solid black or solid white license plate option for South Dakota residents. It allows owners of eligible vehicles (cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles) with valid licenses to purchase these plates for a $100 annual fee. Of this fee, $25 funds a special revenue account and $75 supports the state highway fund. Personalization is available for an extra $25, and plates can be transferred like existing specialty plates.