News

Hello from Pierre, and it’s good to visit with everyone again. The Legislative Session is officially underway, and we’re back to work. I’ll begin by reminding everyone of my responsibilities this year as I serve as your Representative.

Week two of the 101st Legislative Session and the Joint Committee on Appropriations continues with budget hearings. We talked about the growing funding gap that persists in the Community Support Provider (CSP) world.

Because of Martin Luther King, Jr. day on Monday, we only had a four day week. Again, Tuesday and Thursday morning at 7:45 is the time for our Health and Human Services Committee meeting for those of you who would like to testify on a bill or watch on TV.

When we asked ChatGPT if it was a good idea to invest in education it responded with the wisdom and confidence of a sentient being who believes they are on the cusp of knowing everything.

Rural South Dakotans may see incremental changes to their health care coverage in the next year after $189 million in funding was awarded to the state, but the most significant improvements will likely take more time, industry leaders said. In his State of the State address Jan. 13, Gov.

Team Buche Cares hosted a community giveaway on Tuesday, January 20, at the G.F. Buche Co. Headquarters in Wagner. The event provided neighbors with free-range blue eggs, beef hot dogs, and potatoes.

The Wagner Community Memorial Hospital-Avera sponsored a 15th annual 8th Grade Career Fair on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at the Wagner National Guard Armory.

Senior Night on Thursday, January 22, was filled with emotion, appreciation, and strong performances as the gymnastics team honored three seniors who have made a lasting impact on the program.

South Dakota’s One Hundred and First Legislative Session began Tuesday, Jan. 13. It is an honor to return to Pierre as your District 19 Senator. I look forward to working with my District mates Jessica Bahmuller and Drew Peterson to represent District 19.

Week 1 of the 101st Legislative Session is already in the books. The drive to Pierre was tough, not because of the roads, but because it meant leaving my family behind.