WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- As the legislative session approaches, newly elected South Dakota Senator for District 5, Glen Vilhauer, is gearing up for his new role.

Formerly a city councilman for Watertown, Vilhauer is excited about the transition from local to state government.

Vilhauer has been appointed to two committees. One of which handles budget decisions, which will be particularly demanding given the current economic climate and the governor’s proposed conservative budget.

He has already co-sponsored several bills and is prepared to tackle the numerous proposals that will come before the legislature. The legislative session can be packed with over 500 -600 plus bills.

Vilhauer’s background as a retired CPA will provide valuable insights into the financial aspects of the legislative process.

South Dakota’s legislative session is unique in its intensity, lasting only 38 days.

As Vilhauer prepares for his new role, he acknowledges the contributions of outgoing legislators from Districts 4 and 5, including Lee Schoenbeck, Hugh Bartels, Byron Callies, John Wiik, and Fred Deutsch.