Rhoden outlines vision for the year ahead

PIERRE — Governor Larry Rhoden delivered his first State of the State Address on Tuesday, opening the 2026 legislative session with a broad agenda focused on tax relief, rural healthcare, economic development, and public safety. Speaking to a joint session of the South Dakota Legislature, Rhoden framed his leadership style around collaboration and “the power to convene,” emphasizing that progress comes from bringing the right people together at the right time.

“We are gathered here for a serious purpose: to do the work of the people of South Dakota,” he said, calling for a renewed commitment to civility during the session.

Property tax relief and local flexibility

A major portion of the governor’s address centered on property tax relief, an issue that has drawn increasing attention across the state. Rhoden proposed giving counties the option to replace their share of property taxes with a half cent sales tax. The change, he said, would allow counties to tailor solutions to their own needs while shifting some of the tax burden to visitors in high tourism areas.

“This is a commonsense conservative plan: not a mandate, but a choice,” Rhoden said. “We’re empowering local decision makers to make the best decisions for their counties.”

He announced plans to hold property tax town halls in Sioux Falls, the Black Hills, and several eastern counties, inviting lawmakers to request additional stops in their communities.

Economic development and a new focus on national security

Rhoden highlighted steady economic growth, low unemployment, and what he described as one of the most competitive tax and regulatory environments in the country. He pointed to value added agriculture, biotech, and manufacturing as areas of continued strength.

The governor also announced a new emphasis on national security and defense related industries as a major economic opportunity for the state. He cited the continued expansion of Ellsworth Air Force Base, Dakota State University’s cybersecurity programs, and private sector innovation as key drivers.

“National security creates major opportunities for South Dakota, and we need to seize them,” he said.

Rhoden recognized several business leaders in the gallery, representing sectors from agriculture to firearms to biotechnology, and praised their contributions to the state’s economic momentum.

Rural healthcare expansion and tribal collaboration

Healthcare access — particularly in rural areas — was another central theme. Rhoden celebrated the state’s recent award of $189 million in federal funding for the Rural Health Transformation Plan, calling it a “major win for South Dakota.”

The five-year initiative will expand services in remote areas, strengthen the healthcare workforce, integrate behavioral health into primary care, and support rural facilities. It will also establish Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics statewide and create regional EMS hubs.

Rhoden emphasized that the plan was shaped with input from rural communities, healthcare providers, and the Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board. He noted that the collaboration helped identify community needs and contributed to a plan designed to support families across the state.

Public safety, law enforcement, and tribal officers

Public safety occupied a significant portion of the address. Rhoden highlighted Operation: Prairie Thunder — a coordinated effort between the Highway Patrol and local law enforcement — and recognized officers and National Guard members for their service. He cited arrests, drug seizures, and traffic enforcement as signs of the program’s impact.

He also voiced support for legislation recognizing tribal law enforcement officers under the state’s definition of “law enforcement officer,” a change he said would ensure consistent protections for officers serving tribal communities.

“Our law enforcement deserves respect — at all levels,” Rhoden said.

The governor noted progress on new correctional facilities in Sioux Falls and Rapid City and highlighted the work of the Correctional Rehabilitation Task Force. Among its recommendations are the Prison Seminary Model and tribal focused rehabilitation opportunities, which Rhoden described as part of a broader effort to strengthen reentry and rehabilitation programs.

Education, workforce, and youth opportunities

Rhoden devoted a substantial portion of his address to education and workforce development. He highlighted the Science of Reading initiative, which brings phonics based instruction back into classrooms, and noted that the state’s investment leveraged significant federal support. He also pointed to ongoing work to revise math standards to make them more accessible for families.

“We’re replacing common core with common sense,” he said.

The governor praised the Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway, which helps paraprofessionals earn full certification while continuing to work in schools, and highlighted the importance of Career and Technical Education. He noted recent expansions at the CTE Academy in Sioux Falls and proposed a new welding and machining facility at Southeast Tech.

Rhoden also spoke about youth outdoor opportunities, celebrating strong pheasant seasons, expanded mentored hunting and fishing programs, and the opening of Capitol Lake to youth fishing.

Freedom, family, and statewide traditions

Rhoden reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to what he described as keeping South Dakota “the freest state in America.” He highlighted legislation protecting landowner rights, efforts to address illegal distribution of abortion pills, and ongoing support for Second Amendment rights.

He recognized First Lady Sandy Rhoden for her “South Dakota Rising” initiative, which focuses on healthy lifestyles and reducing classroom distractions caused by cell phones. He also welcomed members of his family to the gallery, noting that their growing number of grandchildren remains a source of pride.

A look toward the future

Rhoden closed his address with a reflection on South Dakota’s history and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. He noted that the state will host a major celebration at Mount Rushmore on July 3 and acknowledged the presence of the Crazy Horse Memorial nearby.

He ended with a reading from former Gov. Peter Norbeck’s 1919 State of the State Address, invoking themes of resilience, community, and optimism.

“As we look to the year ahead, we can be proud of the work we’ve done and confident in the work still to come,” Rhoden said.

(Contact Ernestine Anunksan at editor@nativesunnews.today)

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