House Majority Leader says major goals met during session

PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – South Dakota legislators wrapped up the main run of the 2020 session late Thursday night by passing the $4.9 billion 2021 budget.

House Majority Leader Lee Qualm of Platte says they hit their major goals.

Qualm says they worked with the Governor’s office to use savings in Medicaid spending.

That was a diversion of about $16 million.

The legislature also approved the industrial hemp bill.

Qualm, who was a prime sponsor, says they had to negotiate the final costs to set up the program.

Legislators will return for “veto day” on March 30.