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events and were reimbursed more than $4,000 for them since July.
• "I think it makes me a better legislator," Tieszen said, adding that he tries to travel inexpensively.
• Many lawmakers agree that the travel reimbursements are necessary to discuss ideas across state lines.
• Sen. Ryan Maher, chairman of the Executive Board, said a 40-day legislative session is not long enough for legislators to fully research policy in South Dakota and other states.
• The Isabel Republican voted with the majority to fund ALEC travel. He has travelled to conferences with the organization since he was a freshman eight years ago.
• Maher said the group is indeed non-partisan. Some Democrats have travelled to ALEC events and the group is more centrist than it's given credit for, he said.
• At least four legislators attended both ALEC events held this fiscal year, including Rep. Jenna Haggar, Rep. Manny Steele, Sen. Daniel Lederman and Rep. Isaac Latterell, all Republicans. In 2011 and 2012, no legislators traveled to ALEC events, and few travelled to any conferences those years due to budget cuts.
• Last year, of the roughly $28,000 spent on out-of-state meetings, 61 percent went to the National Conference of State Legislatures. NCSL also drew the most in 2010, 43 percent of about $110,000 in travel, while ALEC expenses accounted for 25 percent that year, according to state records.
• The National Conference of State Legislatures lobbies for its members before Congress and provides them information. Its main leadership position alternates each year between a Democrat and a Republican and the executive committee includes 21 legislative Democrats, 21 Republicans and 20 staffers.
• "Our research, publications and programs are objective and unbiased," said spokesman Mick Bullock by email.
•

• PIERRE, S.D. (AP) -- South Dakota candidate for state Senate David Johnson has filed petitions for a recount.
• Rapid City incumbent Republican Phil Jensen won 1,234 votes -- 30 more than Johnson in Tuesday's primary.
• The difference between the two candidates is within the 2 percent margin required for a recount. The winner will face Democrat Robin Page in the November election.
• KOTA-TV reports (http://bit.ly/SWmqmq) Johnson has filed petitions in both Meade and Pennington county. A recount will happen June 23rd.

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