Emergency Funding for New Highway Patrol Plane Passes House 49-18

The South Dakota House has passed a $5 million emergency appropriation to replace the Highway Patrol’s aircraft and mission equipment.

Republican Rep. Jack Kolbeck of Sioux Falls carried the bill on the floor. Offering reasons the plane needs to be replaced

Democratic Rep. Erik Muckey of Sioux Falls said he supports replacing the plane, but wants public metrics and accountability tied to Operation Prairie Thunder.

The bill passed 49-18, with an emergency clause requiring a two-thirds vote.

It now goes to Gov. Larry Rhoden.