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Senate approves bill requiring school-district opt-outs and capital certificates be referred to voters
Summary
The South Dakota Senate on Feb. 18 passed Senate Bill 208, requiring school boards to refer opt-outs and certain capital outlay certificates to a public vote; the measure passed 19–15 with one member excused after extensive debate over property-tax authority and local control.
Pierre, S.D. — The South Dakota Senate on Feb. 18 approved Senate Bill 208, a measure that requires school boards to refer proposed opt-outs from property-tax limits and certain capital outlay certificates to a public vote.
Supporters said the bill restores direct voter consent for decisions that can raise local property tax collections. “The taxpayers of South Dakota should have a voice in whether or not they want their property tax bill to go up,” said Senator Petersen, the bill sponsor.
Opponents warned the change would add election costs and reduce flexibility for school districts that must set budgets months before…
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