Governor Larry Rhoden Thursday signed HB 1044, his first bill of the session, approving funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program. Rhoden called the measure “a big win for rural South Dakota,” saying it will help recruit healthcare workers, modernize facilities, and expand access statewide.
The program is a five‑year federal initiative tied to President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” aimed at strengthening rural healthcare systems.
Rhoden had highlighted the bill in his State of the State address, saying he hoped it would be the first on his desk.
South Dakota has secured $189.4 million in federal funding for Fiscal Year 2026 to support the effort. More details are available through the Department of Health.
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