A coalition called South Dakotans for Fair Taxes is launching a petition drive to refer Senate Bill 245 to the November ballot. The group includes Bread for the World South Dakota, the South Dakota AFL‑CIO, and Dakota Rural Action.
SB 245 would direct an estimated $110 million from a scheduled 2027 sales‑tax increase into a fund for homeowner property‑tax relief. Coalition members argue the plan shifts tax burdens onto renters, working families, and farmers, while providing the greatest benefit to owners of high‑value homes.
Supporters of the referral say more than 30% of South Dakotans who rent would see no relief, even as they pay higher sales taxes. They point to a recent statewide poll showing nearly half of voters oppose trading higher sales taxes for property‑tax cuts.
Coalition leaders say voters deserve a direct say on the policy. They’re encouraging additional organizations to join the effort and inviting the public to learn more at sd4fairtaxes.org.
