South Dakota lawmakers hit the 33rd of 38 legislative days Thursday (March 5, 2026), with major bills on data centers, cell phones, marriage age, and gender definitions up for action in Pierre.
Senate Judiciary’s agenda has two bills. HB 1184 would define “man” and “woman” throughout state law. HB 1187 would add coaches to the mandatory list of reporters for child abuse or neglect.
House Appropriations meets to act on SB 106. The bill would change the amount school districts must set aside to cover extraordinary special education expenses.
Senate Appropriations convenes to hear HB 1082. It would set parameters for reimbursing school districts that serve free or reduced-price meals to students.
Both chambers convene at 1 p.m.
The House takes up five Senate bills on second reading. SB 135, pulled from the consent calendar, would protect residents from utility cost increases and shortages caused by data centers and clarify the state’s authority to regulate them. SB 198 would restrict student cell phone use during the school day. SB 159 would revise the minimum marriage age. SB 76 would allow the state housing infrastructure fund to make loans for airport projects. SB 96 would let counties impose a gross receipts tax to reduce owner-occupied property taxes.
In the Senate, HB 1220 reaches second reading. The bill would regulate the sale of nicotine products.
By Todd Epp | South Dakota Broadcasters Association.
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