The 20-15 South Dakota Legislative Session began with the annual State of the State Address today (Tuesday). Governor Dennis Daugaard says his top priority is working on the state’s roads and bridges.
After the pleasantries and welcome of new lawmakers to their first session, Governor Daugaard didn’t mince any words with his goals for the state.
(BITE :15) “It’s my duty to open this session with some thoughts on some issues we face as a state. I’d like to begin right away today by talking to you about South Dakota’s roads and bridges. Our roads are, by far, our state’s most valuable physical asset, worth over fourteen billion dollars.”
Daugaard showed senators and representatives a series of charts showing the work to be done on South Dakota’s infrastructure—he says work can’t wait anymore, and more money is needed to get started.
(BITE :19) “There’s not much room to gain new efficiencies within current spending. If we can’t spend our current dollars more efficiently, we need to look at whether our current dollars are enough. And unfortunately, our current funding methods have not kept pace with highway construction costs.”
Under Daugaard’s plan, people who buy a car, put gas in their vehicles or get license plates will share in the funding process. He told lawmakers of several taxes that would rise to meet the state’s need.
(BITE :25) “An increase in the vehicle excise tax from three percent to four percent will raise 26 million dollars in taxes a year—while still being lower than most states in our region. I also propose we increase the motor fuel tax by two cents, this year.”
The Governor also is asking for a 10 percent jump in motor vehicle registration fees. This increase would remain with counties to work on their own highways, and allow county officials to develop plans to repair or replace bridges. The session runs through early March, with Veto Day set for March 30th.