PIERRE, S.D.(Press Release) – College and university students from any class year, from freshman to graduate student, who are pursuing any major are encouraged to apply for one of the twenty-two legislative intern positions available for the 2026 South Dakota Legislative Session. Deadline to apply is October 17, 2025.

In addition to submitting a completed application form, students must provide an unofficial copy of their college transcript, a one-page writing sample on any topic of their choosing, and two letters of recommendation. To complete the application process, the student must sign up for a free MyLRC+ account. References should submit letters of recommendation on the applicant’s behalf directly to the LRC by mail or email as soon as possible.

Interns work closely with legislative leadership, assist lawmakers and LRC staff during committee hearings, conduct research and monitor legislation, attend closed-door caucus meetings, and help lawmakers with constituent services and other legislative tasks. They also have the opportunity to participate in outside events related to the Legislature.

Students receive a salary of $185 for each day worked, which for the full session and orientation amounts to $7,215 in compensation. They may also receive college credits for their internship.

The 101st South Dakota Legislative Session runs from January 13, 2026, to March 30, 2026, with a recess from March 13-27.

Students wanting more information should visit https://sdlegislature.gov/Students/Intern; or contact the Intern Coordinator, Legislative Research Council, 500 East Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501; email [email protected]; or call (605) 773-3251.