PIERRE, S.D.(KCCR)- Two of three bills intended to increase protections to parties involved in grain selling and buying have been approved by the South Dakota Senate.  Senate Bill 35 would increase the maximum fine for certain grain buyer violations.

District 24 Senator Mary Duvall of Pierre says the bill would allow the state Public Utilities Commission to issue a lower fine if warranted.

Senate Bill 35 passed the Senate 34 to zero with one excused vote.  Duvall also touted Senate Bill 39 which would speed up the process for victims to recover bond money.

Senate Bill 39 also passed unanimously, 33 to zero with two excused.  There was no opposition to either bill.  Senate Bill 38 would make it a Class Five felony for a grain buyer to knowingly negotiate a deal with an unlicensed buyer.  It passed uncontested on the consent calendar.  All three bills now move on the South Dakota House of Representatives.