The brief 2024 session of the South Dakota Legislature convened January 9 and adjourns March 25 and during the time, NFIB was instrumental in stopping three particularly bad for small business measures, secured the passage of a good one, and helped advance one that will be revisited in 2025.

Defeated Minimum-wage Bill

The minimum wage has always been and will always be an entry-level wage earned by teens and young adults, many of whom still live at home and most of whom are not raising families on it. The immediate effect of raising it removes the first rung of the ladder in everyone’s economic life. Senate Bill 132 would have raised the state’s minimum wage to $15 from $11.20 by 2026. NFIB-member small business owners have been consistently raising compensation levels far above the current minimum-wage rate for at least the last 18 consecutive months. NFIB testified against SB 132, which was killed in committee on an 8-1 vote.

Stopped Workers’ Compensation Measure

Like unemployment insurance, its sister social welfare program, workers’ compensation is simple and straightforward—until incessant tinkering chips away at its effectiveness. Senate Bill 145 would have extended the time to report a workers’ compensation claim from three days to two weeks. NFIB testified against SB 145, which was killed in committee.

Halted Property Tax Shift

Property tax relief is a universal desire across the nation, but Senate Bill 167 would have shifted the property tax burden onto agricultural and commercial property and would have small businesses. The proposal drew opposition from all business, agriculture, and even education groups. NFIB testified against SB 167, which eventually dies on the Senate floor.

Won Work Requirement on Able-bodied Medicaid Recipients

At a time when small businesses in particular are desperate for workers and many Medicare beneficiaries willing to do, Senate Joint Resolution 501 allows the state to impose work requirements on certain individuals who are eligible for expanded Medicaid. NFIB testified in support of the measure, which was submitted for voter approval on the November ballot.

Advanced Making Sales Tax Cuts Permanent

South Dakota reduced its sales taxes from 4.5% to 4.2% but the legislation enacting it had an expiration date. House Bill 1001 would have made the cuts permanent. NFIB testified in support of the measure, which passed the State House but died in the State Senate. NFIB will campaign for its restoration in the 2025 session of the Legislature.