South Dakota Democrats concern childcare grants are becoming too political

PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- A political dispute has developed over childcare grants.

Governor Kristi Noem said the state was awarding about thirty two million dollars to childcare providers.

Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg released a memo saying the grants had to first be approved by the legislature.

House Minority Leader Jamie Smith says the providers and kids are caught in the middle.

Smith says House democrats didn’t get any notice of the problems.

Senate Minority Leader Troy Heinert of Mission says legislators had signed off on the program, which uses federal funds.

State Treasurer Josh Haeder said he authorized the thirty two million dollars to go to the Department of Social Services to then be sent to certified childcare providers.