Five Things To know
Week 5 of the 2026 Legislative Session wrapped up with continued momentum on issues impacting South Dakota’s health care community. With 621 bills filed and 88 currently tracked by SDAHO, advocacy efforts remain focused on protecting members from burdensome policies while advancing workforce and rural health priorities.
Here are five key takeaways from this week:
1. Property Rights Bill Advances
HB 1105, which could restrict certain property agreements related to health care services in underserved areas, passed the House and now moves to the Senate. SDAHO remains opposed due to potential operational and community impact. SDAHO’s Advocacy team will continue working with lawmakers to address the significant operational and community impact this could have on facilities.
2. New Disclosure Requirements Moving Forward
HB 1171, creating additional disclosure requirements related to COVID-19 and mRNA vaccination status and blood donations, advanced out of committee and heads to the full House next week. SDAHO opposes the measure and will continue to express concerns about added administrative burdens.
3. Medical Conscience Bill Defeated
HB 1153 was defeated on the House floor — a significant win. As written, the bill would have created broad exemptions resulting in operational and access-to-care challenges, particularly for rural providers. Thank you to members who engaged with lawmakers.
4. Tax Exemption Repeal Stopped
SB 161, which sought to repeal an exemption for certain health care facilities, was unanimously defeated in Senate Taxation — another positive outcome for health care providers statewide.
5. Workforce and Rural Recruitment Measures Advance
Interstate licensure compacts for physician assistants (HB 1146), respiratory care (HB 1148), and athletic trainers (HB 1149) advanced, supporting workforce mobility. In addition, HB 1143 (Rural Recruitment Assistance Program) continues moving forward after passing Joint Appropriations and the full House.
Interested in listening / watching the week 5 legislative podcast, featuring the SDAHO Advocacy Team? Click here.
For the latest updates on health care legislation, visit the SDAHO State Advocacy webpage: sdaho.org/state-advocacy.
