Democratic Legislative Leaders Respond to Revenue Projections

PIERRE, S.D. – At their weekly press conference yesterday, State Senate Democratic Leader Sen. Billie Sutton of Burke and State House Assistant Democratic Leader Julie Bartling of Gregory responded to the revenue estimates adopted by the Joint Appropriations Committee this week for the remainder of this fiscal year and the next fiscal year.

“Democrats recognize the need to live within our means, but we also believe we must continue to make smart investments in our people which will aid South Dakota’s short-term and long-term economic growth,” said Bartling. “We should use the better-than-expected funds to invest in important priorities, like education, affordable housing, and community healthcare providers, and in making sure state government employees receive a raise – something both parties recognize as necessary to retain a strong state workforce.”

Sutton said that Democrats were ready to work across the aisle to make sure the upcoming budget reflected the values and priorities of the people of South Dakota.

“We have a duty as elected leaders to make sure the budget choices reflect and honor the values of the people of this state, and to make sure those choices ensure that our state government and our state economy work well for every South Dakotan,” said Sutton.

“As we head into the remaining weeks of Session, and decide our budget for the next fiscal year, we will continue to fight to ensure this budget reflects these priorities,” Sutton continued. “We will do everything we can to make sure this budget makes the best possible use of taxpayers’ money and helps make our state an even better place to live for all people.”

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