South Dakota lawmakers are entering the final days of the 2026 legislative session, and one of the biggest issues still on the table is property tax relief.
Legislators want to use an upcoming increase in sales tax revenue to ease the burden on homeowners. Senate Bill 245 would direct that new revenue toward property tax cuts, and paired with other measures, supporters say the average homeowner could save about $1,200 a year.
The House debated how much money should be set aside. Representative Mike Weisgram proposed using $60 million for tax relief instead of the full $111 million, but that amendment failed. Opponents argued the state should follow through on what was promised to taxpayers.
The bill ultimately passed the House and now heads to the Senate. Governor Larry Rhoden has already signaled his support.
Lawmakers are expected to finalize the state budget and remaining policy bills this week, with one additional day later this month reserved for any veto considerations.
