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The calendar has turned to February, and suddenly we are already four weeks into Legislative Session. The deadline for introducing bills was this past Wednesday, so the final tally for the Legislature’s 2025 agenda is over 540 bills, resolutions and commemorations.
We appreciate your participation in this process by responding to action alerts that we send out on issues we're watching. Your voice truly makes a difference. Read on for information about legislative activity in Pierre this week!
House Bill 1071: Physician Assistants Practicing in South Dakota
On Tuesday, AARP South Dakota testified in favor of House Bill (HB) 1071, which would allow Physician Assistants (PAs) – proven and trusted members of the South Dakota health care system – to work to their full potential. This means increased access to high-quality care for South Dakotans.
The bill passed out of the House Health and Human Services Committee on a 9-3 vote and on the House of Representatives floor on a 54-13 vote. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. Thank you to everyone who responded to our action alert and sent messages to their representatives!
AARP South Dakota has a long history of supporting South Dakota’s family caregivers who help make it possible for their parents, spouses, friends and other loved ones to live independently at home where they want to be. That’s why we support HB 1071, which would take steps to modernize the practice of South Dakota’s PAs. By passing this bill, patients would have direct access to PAs working to the full extent of their education and expertise.
Patients across South Dakota should have access to care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, medical offices, community clinics and at home. PAs are a vital resource in this endeavor and help to care for older South Dakotans living in their homes and communities – while keeping them out of nursing homes.
House Bill 1103: Voter Registration Deadline
On Wednesday, AARP South Dakota testified against House Bill 1103 before the House State Affairs committee. HB 1103 would change the voter registration deadline from 15 days before an election to 30 days before an election, which can result in a significant decrease in voter participation.
AARP South Dakota successfully lobbied to defeat the bill on an 8-4 vote in the committee. Again, thank you for the tremendous response to our action alert that sent messages to these committee members!
AARP South Dakota has a long history of non-partisan voter education and engagement. We provide information on the voting process, as well as where candidates stand on issues, so you can make your own decisions on Election Day.
We believe voting is a fundamental human right. We have long advocated for fair and straightforward election procedures that help increase the participation of voters aged 50 and older. We focus on ensuring that older voters can exercise their right to vote in the manner they choose, without facing unnecessary roadblocks.
South Dakota policymakers have a responsibility to encourage maximum participation in the electoral process. They should adopt voting procedures to expand the range of voting choices, not limit them.
States with practices that encourage voter registration and increased access to voting options typically have higher voter turnout. Those that put barriers in place usually have lower turnout. We want South Dakotans to have options that maximize the opportunities for people to exercise their right to vote.
That is why AARP South Dakota opposed House Bill 1103. This measure would add unnecessary barriers that prevent older adults from registering to vote and participating in elections.
Legislative Cracker Barrels: Your Chance to Visit with Lawmakers at Home
Remember to check this listing of upcoming legislative cracker barrel events to see if there is a session happening in your community. If you don’t see your community listed, talk with your legislators or your local Chamber of Commerce to see if any cracker barrels will be scheduled during this legislative session.
Ever Wondered How a Bill Goes Through the Legislative Process?
Each week, our updates tell you about different bills being considered by the Legislature, including details about committee votes as well as votes in the Senate and House chambers. This graphic provides a simplified overview of the process, understanding that from time to time, different legislative rules come into play that can change things up. But, be assured we are your advocate in Pierre, and we’ll keep you up-to-date on important issues and legislative actions all along the way.
