Legislature to finalize budget today; battles remain

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — As the South Dakota Legislature enters its final day to finalize a budget, lawmakers are squabbling over how to spend $13 million in unexpected one-time funds.

Republican lawmakers are negotiating competing proposals on how to use the extra money.

It appears that 2% inflationary increases to fund salaries for teachers, state employees and service providers is a safe bet, with nearly all lawmakers in agreement that should be prioritized.

But several other proposals are still on the negotiating table. Lawmakers are looking competing for funding for a hemp program, a new building at the University of South Dakota and county road repairs.