South Dakota’s 100th Legislative Session kicked off this past Tuesday January 14 with the delivery of the State of the State Address by Governor Kristi Noem. The Governor delivered a top 10 list of why South Dakota will continue to be an example to the nation, with healthcare earning the number nine spot.
Governor Noem shared with lawmakers and South Dakota, “Our state has been a leader in health care policy. We took a unique approach to the COVID pandemic. We cared for our people while still respecting their Freedoms.” Gov. Kristi Noem
The Governor went on to share that the healthcare industry created a first-in-the-nation initiative where telehealth services were made available in ambulances across South Dakota.
Guaranteeing price transparency from health insurance companies and a regional mental health facility that allowed South Dakotans to be closer to home were lifted during the Governor’s speech.
The Freedom Works Here campaign assisted in recruiting nurses to our state, with the Governor telling lawmakers over the last two years, the number of nurses working in South Dakota increased by at least 1,100 across all nursing classifications.
Medicaid Expansion and the impact Amendment F, which voters passed this past November was also addressed during the speech. Noem shared plans to utilize SD Career Link to assist individuals who fall under those work requirements.
With week one under our belt, the SDAHO advocacy team is already following a number of items. So far, 153 pieces of legislation have been filed with the Legislative Research Council.
The SDAHO Advocacy team will be in Pierre for the entire run of the 2025 legislative session. To stay connected with healthcare related legislation, follow our Bill Tracker here.
You can also visit our State Advocacy Webpage.
