HB 1299 allows small lodging establishments (with 15 or fewer sleeping rooms) to apply for a permit to use biological filtration systems in their water recreational facilities, such as pools or spas. These systems filter water naturally using plants, beneficial bacteria, and microbes - without relying on continuous chemical disinfectants - to meet public health and safety standards. To obtain a permit, establishments must submit proof the system meets water quality requirements, pay a $50 fee, and undergo annual department inspections. If an inspection fails, the permit is revoked, and reapplication is barred for one year. The bill requires the department to establish rules for applications, maintenance, and testing procedures.
SB 222 appropriates $10 million from South Dakota's general fund to the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources for grants supporting water, wastewater, storm water, and nonpoint source pollution projects. It directly affects municipalities and water systems serving residents, with funding calculated as a percentage of project costs based on population: up to 80% for systems serving ≤1,000 people (capped at $9,000/person), 50% for 1,001-2,500 people ($7,000/person), and 30% for >2,500 people ($3,000/person). Projects addressing regionalization, drought resiliency, or environmental compliance may exceed these caps, and engineering studies for long-term water issues can receive up to 100% funding. The bill declares an emergency to expedite funding and requires projects to align with the state water plan.
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.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 605 is a non-binding resolution recognizing the monarch butterfly's ecological importance and encouraging voluntary conservation efforts in South Dakota. It urges state agencies, local governments, and land managers to preserve existing milkweed habitats where practical and prioritize pollinator-friendly native seed mixes - including milkweed - in plantings that align with land management goals. The resolution specifically emphasizes voluntary cooperation with landowners and agricultural operations, avoiding regulatory impacts, while urging federal agencies to support these efforts through technical assistance. It does not create new legal requirements but formally supports existing conservation practices.
SB 38 increases annual fees for certain concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in South Dakota that process manure or wastewater under water pollution permits. It raises fees per animal for specific livestock, including dairy cows ($0.43 from $0.17), other cattle/bison ($0.30 from $0.12), and horses ($0.60 from $0.24). The bill directly affects CAFOs operating under water pollution control permits, excluding livestock auctions, out-of-state operations, and Indian country. The changes modify existing fee rates in Section 34A-2-125.1 of South Dakota law.
