The South Dakota House of Representatives defeated a bill that would have required school districts to hold elections if they exceed property tax limits. The State Senate had approved it in January. Sioux Falls Republican Representative John Hughes sponsored the bill in the House.
School boards can decide to exceed tax limitations, or “opt out,” to raise more revenue. Seventy nine school districts in the state already do. Local residents can petition the decision to an election, but an election isn’t required.
Brookings Republican Representative Roger DeGroot says some schools have to opt out because the state isn’t doing enough to support them. He referenced the governor’s recommendation to keep school funding flat this year.
Hughes announced an intent to reconsider the bill, but ultimately gave up that effort.
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