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from the SD Agri-Business Association told me that this has been a problem for people she represents, as well.  Commercial applicators are required to re-certify every two years, while private applicators go through the process every five years.  It just doesn't make sense to make people jump through additional hoops when they are already trained, experienced, and knowledgeable in their trade.  If a person can spray everybody's land across the fruited plain, he/she is probably capable of doing the same on his/her land without threatening human existence or causing the sky to fall!  The bill passed committee 13-0 and cruised through the House 68-0.
• HB 1213 would strike down the present law that forces reorganization/consolidation of schools with enrollments under 100.  Instead, it would allow a different option, in that such school districts could choose, alternatively, to receive a percentage of state-aid equal to the number of students within the district.  In short, if a schools average daily membership is 95 students, the school would receive 95% of the base funding provided in the state-aid formula.  This plan would restore local control in making decisions regarding reorganization.  School district patrons could still choose to dissolve or consolidate, but that decision would not be thrust upon them by the state.  The bill passed the House, 56-11.  As the bill moves to the Senate, it still has significant hurdles to cross in order to become law, but it has been embraced pretty well so far by parties outside the Department of Education.  The Dept has provided the only opposition testimony in committee to-date.
• I visited at-length last week about HB 1135.  This bill continues to be a political hot-potato.  It had a third amendment attached on the floor to ensure that it does not impact access to public lakes or any of the flooded lands adjacent to them.  I have a list of many of the public waters not affected by the bill.  Although the list states that it may only be a partial list, I have shared it with a number of people who have asked for it.  It has quelled SOME of the concerns that the bill would restrict access to some people's favorite fishing hot-spots (i.e.--Bitter, Waubay, Pickrel Lakes, Lake Thompson, etc.).  I realize that concerns remain, and in some cases I have received personal threats, mostly anonymous, because of the bill.  The bill has passed to the Senate, but I would invite you to contact me about the bill if you would like me to provide the list.  I think you will find that some of the information that has been circulated simply is not based in fact.  I have no doubt that strong feelings remain, but I welcome the opportunity to share more information with you.
• Until next time, take care and be blessed!
• Brock Greenfield