Update 3/11/25: PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden signed seven bills that support his national security efforts.

“National security is South Dakota’s next big industry, and we are actively fighting to protect our people – both South Dakotans and all Americans,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “These bills are a strong step forward in limiting foreign ownership of our land, strengthening our infrastructure and strategic assets, and positioning South Dakota as a leader in security and defense.”

Governor Rhoden signed the following seven bills:

• SB 17 prohibits a candidate or political committee from accepting contributions or loans made by a foreign national, provides a penalty therefor, and declares an emergency;
• SB 40 revises the compliance requirements for limitations on foreign ownership of agricultural land;
• SB 60 restricts ownership of real property interests by certain prohibited entities and provides for enforcement;
• SB 130 makes an appropriation for roadway and related infrastructure improvements required because of construction activity at Ellsworth Air Force Base and declares an emergency;
• HB 1049 protects electric infrastructure in this state;
• HB 1280 increases penalties for the operation of drones over certain facilities and provides for mitigation techniques and countermeasures; and
• SB 1311 requires the reporting of funding given by certain persons and governments to institutions under the control of the Board of Regents and the South Dakota Board of Technical Education.

Governor Rhoden signed some of the national security bills in a bill signing ceremony. Governor Rhoden has signed 134 bills into law and vetoed one this legislative session.

(Sourced from the Governor's Office.)

Unanimous Senate Vote Moves SB 130 Forward to Repair Roads Serving Ellsworth AFB

On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the South Dakota Senate voted unanimously 32–0 to approve SB 130, sending the bill forward to the South Dakota House of Representatives for further consideration. The bill would appropriate $8 million from the state general fund for roadway and related infrastructure improvements necessary to support, mitigate, and address impacts from construction activity occurring at Ellsworth Air Force Base. The City of Box Elder is proud to be home to Ellsworth Air Force Base. For generations, the base and the community have worked side by side to make western South Dakota a strong place to live, work, and raise families. That relationship has created tremendous opportunity, but it also comes with responsibility. One of those responsibilities is making sure the roads serving Ellsworth Air Force Base are safe, reliable, and able to handle the demands placed on them.

To read the full News Release, click here.