BROOKINGS, S.D. (WNAX) – As the South Dakota Senate organized for the 2021 session, Senator V.J. Smith of Brookings was named Chairman of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.

Smith says there are some big issues ahead of them.

Smith says he is hearing from a number of local meat processors.

Smith says he also expects debate over the Governors proposal to merge the Department of Environment and Natural Resources into the Agriculture Department.