PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- South Dakota Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven Jensen spoke to the legislature yesterday (Wednesday), delivering the “State of the Judiciary” speech.

He told lawmakers that the state’s court system was able to continue the legal process during the pandemic.

Jensen says the system is having a hard time finding and holding on to employees.

He says he appreciates the six percent raise included in Governor Kristi Noems budget proposal.

Jensen says court security is a priority and each courthouse will have a local committee to recommend upgrades.

Jensen asked legislators for five million dollars for the needed security upgrades at courthouses across the state.