Environment

SB 231 creates a Water Infrastructure Development Fund to support rural water projects in South Dakota. The fund, initially seeded with $3 million from the state general fund (Section 2), provides grants (up to 10% of project costs) and loans (up to 50% of project costs) managed by the Board of Water and Natural Resources (Section 1). It directly affects rural communities needing upgrades to water infrastructure, such as new systems or repairs. The bill declares an emergency to allow immediate implementation upon passage (Section 3).

SB 37 appropriates $19.5 million from South Dakota's water and environment fund to the Board of Water and Natural Resources for water and environmental projects, declaring an emergency to expedite funding. The bill funds feasibility studies for regional water systems, hydrology research including a public wetland map, flood control updates for the Big Sioux River, and infrastructure construction in northern South Dakota. It also provides grants and loans for water facilities, solid waste management, and cleanup projects, with local communities and municipalities as direct recipients. The Board will distribute funds according to established terms and conditions, focusing on concrete infrastructure and resource management improvements.