PIERRE, S.D. (KJJQ) – The South Dakota Senate passed a bill (SB72) to establish a needs-based scholarship program in South Dakota — the Dakota’s Promise.

Senator John Wiik of Big Stone City says it’s similar to last year’s bill, but this time uses two-million dollars in one-time money and is basically a pilot program.

He says eligibility is based on need but also on merit.

No one spoke against the measure on the Senate floor.

Supporters say South Dakota is the only state in the union without a needs-based scholarship.

The measure passed 34-2 and now moves over to the House. Last year’s bill also passed the Senate but was killed in the House.

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