Johnson’s Digital Permitting Bill Passes Committee

 Washington, D.C. – The House Natural Resources Committee unanimously passed the ePermit Act, led by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Scott Peters (D-CA). This legislation would modernize the permitting process.

“It takes too long to build in America,” said Johnson. “I’m grateful for the work of the Natural Resources Committee to advance my bill that will help America build again. I look forward to moving this bill forward in Congress to modernize our permitting system and unlock development and innovation in our communities.”

“H.R. 4503, the ePermit Act, will modernize outdated permitting systems and streamline how agencies coordinate reviews,” said Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR). “By moving to electronic permitting, we can reduce delays, improve communication, and give project applicants a clear and predictable process. I applaud Representative Johnson for spearheading this bipartisan effort to modernize permitting technology, and I look forward to working with him to move this bill forward in Congress.”

“Our permitting system is still burdened by an outdated, paper-based processes that slow down the projects Americans are counting on — from transportation and broadband to clean energy and climate-resilient infrastructure,” said Rep. Scott Peters (D-CA). “The ePermit Act moves us toward a modern, efficient, fully digital permitting system that will cut red tape, and today’s passage brings us one step closer to delivering results faster. As energy costs continue to rise across the country, it’s important we meet the growing demand for electrification, data centers, and clean-tech manufacturing. I look forward to continuing this momentum and working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to meet the growing demand in California, and across our country, and get this over the finish line.”

What industry leaders are saying about the ePermit Act:

“We applaud Representatives Dusty Johnson and Scott Peters for their innovative approach to modernizing the federal permitting process through the ePermit Act. By establishing a digital permitting portal and standardized data framework for permitting documents, this legislation will enhance clarity, uniformity, and efficiency across federal agencies. It will also improve transparency, facilitate real-time collaboration, and ensure better public access, ultimately streamlining the permitting process and our ability to develop critical infrastructure that will benefit Americans across the country,” said Chad Whiteman, Vice President, Environment and Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“American Council of Engineering Companies, the business voice of the nation’s engineering industry, supports passage of H.R. 4503, the ePermit Act and applauds Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Scott Peters (D-CA) for their leadership on this important bipartisan legislation. The ePermit Act will modernize how federal agencies use technology to facilitate more efficient and timely federal permitting decisions. If passed, the bill will help to cut red tape by enhancing transparency, improving stakeholder engagement, and facilitating efficient interagency collaboration.”

“Our outdated permitting process is incapable of meeting the challenge of rising demand. This bipartisan bill will ensure federal agencies leverage technology to speed up environmental reviews. It’s a critical piece of the broader permitting reform necessary to let America build,” said Jeremy Harrell, CEO, ClearPath Action.

“Manufacturers continue to support permitting reform to unleash American manufacturing competitiveness. The ePermit Act will increase efficiency and transparency in the permitting process, making it easier for manufacturers to push beyond the red tape, grow facilities and create jobs,” said Charles Crain, Managing Vice President of Policy, National Association of Manufacturers.

“National Association of Home Builders commends Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Scott Peters (D-CA) for introducing the ePermit Act, legislation that would address housing affordability challenges by improving and expediting the environmental review and permitting processes. Permitting roadblocks delay housing projects and raise construction costs. This legislation will bring clarity, efficiency and certainty to the permitting process by requiring the use of electronic permitting platforms,” said Buddy Hughes, Chairman, National Association of Home Builders.

“The American Petroleum Institute supports the ePermit Act as a critical step toward modernizing the nation’s outdated permitting system. By improving the process and enhancing transparency through digital tools, this legislation will improve efficiency to support the energy projects we need to meet rising demand. We commend Representatives Peters and Johnson for their leadership in advancing American energy and for spearheading efforts to bring federal permitting into the 21st century,” said Kristin Whitman Senior Vice President of Federal Government Affairs at American Petroleum Institute.

“BPC Action celebrates the bipartisan efforts of Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Scott Peters (D-CA) to optimize technology to modernize federal environmental review and permitting processes for infrastructure projects involving roads, bridges, mines, factories, power plants, and more. The ePermit Act, introduced today, will provide greater transparency and predictability on environmental review and permitting schedules for sponsors and stakeholders. We commend this small, but important, step forward to improve our permitting processes,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

“It’s no secret that the current permitting process remains a major barrier to deploying the projects needed to secure America’s energy and environmental future. By embracing today’s technology, we can modernize the permitting system and accelerate project approvals through greater efficiency and transparency. The American Conservation Coalition Action and its members across the country commend this effort to bring environmental review into the 21st century,” said Andrew Mills, Managing Director, American Conservation Coalition Action.

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South Dakota Democrats reported a far better month than the SDGOP had raising money. While state Republicans reported raising seven dollars and sixty-six cents, South Dakota Democrats were able to fare much better, according to the latest FEC report;

SDDP November2025 FEC Report by Pat Powers

South Dakota Democrats raised $46,815.37 against $29,916.40 in expenses, leaving them with $64,600.48 cash on hand from about 60 pages worth of donations in their latest FEC report.

I’d point out that the SDGOP has a problem with their underwhelming fundraising, but I say the same thing every month, and it would not seem to be changing.

SECRETARY OF STATE ANNOUNCES ADJUSTED TIMELINE FOR SDVOTES PROGRAM

PIERRE, S.D. — The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office today announced that the implementation of the upgraded SDVotes Program will be adjusted to early 2027. This decision reflects the strong feedback received from county auditors who have requested additional time to thoroughly test and become comfortable with the upgraded system before it becomes part of their daily election operations.

SDVotes is fully built, functional, and ready to go live. The decision to adjust the timeline is not related to security concerns or system readiness. Instead, it is grounded entirely in the Secretary of State’s commitment to supporting county auditors, who carry significant responsibilities each day. Many counties have small staffs, and when an upgraded system is implemented, not only auditors—but also deputies and office staff—must be trained and confident before the launch.

“SDVotes is ready,” said Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson. “But readiness is more than technology—it’s people. County auditors asked for more time to test, train their staff, and make sure they feel prepared. We are choosing partnership over pressure. This is not about problems with the system; it’s about respecting the county auditors and giving them the time they need.” The Secretary of State’s Office emphasizes that this adjustment is rooted in teamwork, and collaboration.

“County auditors are our closest partners. An implementation timeline that doesn’t work for county auditors helps no one,” Secretary Johnson added. “We would rather move together and ensure everyone feels supported. The system is strong, secure, and ready—we just want to launch it in a way that works best for those who use it every day.”

The Secretary of State’s Office will continue to work closely with county auditors throughout 2026, offering ongoing collaboration to ensure SDVotes launches smoothly and successfully in 2027. This adjustment is simply about supporting our county auditors, listening to their needs, and implementing SDVotes in a way that strengthens election administration statewide.

State Senator and Senate President Pro Tempore Chris Karr stepped on a landmine recently in a SD Legislative Executive Board meeting where he criticized ag producers, and inferred they need to be further regulated to combat water pollution.

After a report by SD Searchlight Karr has found himself taking fire from other legislators, and as reported by the Argus Leader today, he is now the focus of comments by Governor Larry Rhoden:

Rhoden told the crowd assembled at the Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown that he was disappointed by Karr’s comments, calling them a “damaging thing to say” and promising that Karr would be “set straight” on the issue.

Speaking with reporters afterward, Rhoden said the statements were “made in a vacuum of ignorance” and said that the state had made meaningful steps toward improving water quality.

Lt. Gov Tony Venhuizen also said that he felt Minnesota had instituted more “top-down” mandates and regulations than South Dakota without showing much difference in outcomes.

Read the entire story here.

This comes after an earlier post to facebook by State Representative Drew Peterson critical of what he termed “misinformation and half-truths” about agriculture:

Read that here.

Stay tuned for more on this topic.

Governor Rhoden Unveils “Built to Last” Launch Video

Rapid City, SD – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden unveiled the launch video for his reelection campaign, “Built to Last.” He unveiled the video at a Rhoden for Governor town hall in Sioux Falls. You can find the video here.

“In South Dakota, we don’t build for the moment. We build for the future. We build to last,” said Governor Larry Rhoden in the video. “I’m running for Governor to keep building a state that’s strong, free, and Built to Last.”

The primary election is June 2, 2026. To learn more about the Rhoden for Governor campaign, visit GovernorLarryRhoden.com.

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I notice that the SDGOP’s big gun raffle that is supposed to keep them running is showing a couple of quirks nearly 2 months in.  First and foremost, it doesn’t seem they’ve sold any tickets except for in Miller and the extreme Northwest corner of the state:

Fully 62.5% of the prizes have gone to Miller residents, with another 25% going to the Butte/Perkins area.  Plus an oddball out of stater.  This seems to say they’re not getting much buy in.

The other point is that 8 weeks in, they indicate they’ve only sold about 1/4 of the tickets they have to sell. Which shows them running at a loss on this fundraiser, based on the cost of the guns they’ve committed to.

Right now, it looks like another in what is getting to be a long line of fundraising failures for the party.

Former State Senator Erin Tobin Announces Candidacy for State Senate in District 21

WINNER, S.D. – Today, former State Senator Erin Tobin announced that she is running for the State Senate in District 21. Tobin, who previously represented the district, said her decision reflects her continued commitment to serving the people of District 21 and South Dakota.

“I was humbled by those who encouraged me to run for higher office, but my kids need me here at home,” said Tobin. “Right now, my heart is in District 21 with my family, friends, neighbors, and the people I would be honored to represent again.”

A healthcare professional and small business owner, Erin represented District 21 from 2020 to 2024. During her time in the Senate, she chaired the Health and Human Services Committee and served on the Agriculture and Natural Resources, Commerce and Energy, and Education Committees. She built a reputation as a pragmatic, commonsense conservative committed to agriculture, rural healthcare, and community safety.

Erin’s campaign will focus on six key priorities:

• Supporting our family farms and ranches;

• Helping grow small businesses that keep our towns thriving;

• Improving rural healthcare so families can access care close to home;

• Backing law enforcement to keep our communities safe;

• Empowering parents and teachers to help every child succeed; and

• Creating opportunities for the next generation to build their futures here.

Erin is a fifth-generation Tripp County resident who has spent 15 years serving rural families in healthcare. Three years ago, she opened her own clinic, bringing essential care to her community. She is also the Chair of South Dakota Term Limits, serves on the Upland Outfitters Board, and is a strong advocate for youth hunting, tourism, and economic development.

As a mother of two, raising sixth-generation Tripp County kids, Erin is committed to ensuring future generations can build their lives and families right here at home.

District 21 includes Aurora, Charles Mix, Douglas, Gregory, and Tripp counties.

Absentee voting begins on April 17, 2026, and the Republican Primary Election is on June 2, 2026.

For more information about Erin’s campaign, please visit ErinTobinForSD.com or connect with her campaign on Facebook and X.

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Announcement Video:  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1MV3qhAL38/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Representative Kevin Van Diepen Announces Re-Election Campaign for South Dakota House of Representatives – District 22

Huron, SD — Representative Kevin Van Diepen is pleased to announce his candidacy for re-election to the South Dakota House of Representatives, District 22. With a strong focus on public safety, agriculture, and education, Van Diepen remains committed to delivering real results for the people of District 22.

“It has been an honor to serve District 22 in the South Dakota Legislature,” said Van Diepen. “I’m running for re-election to continue advocating for the values that matter to our communities—safe neighborhoods, strong schools, and a vibrant agricultural economy.”

Representative Van Diepen proudly works in close collaboration with District 22 Representative Lana Greenfield to champion meaningful legislation and ensure the voices of residents are heard in Pierre. Together, they have prioritized policies that strengthen rural South Dakota and support families, farmers, and educators across the region.

A lifelong South Dakotan, and Huron resident, Van Diepen brings practical experience with 36 years of Law Enforcement and a strong work ethic to his service in the Legislature. His record reflects a dedication to common-sense solutions and a deep understanding of the issues facing rural communities.

Representative Van Diepen looks forward to continuing to engage with voters throughout the district and earning their support for another term.

Architect Spencer Sommers Announces Campaign for South Dakota House, District 3

ABERDEEN, S.D. — Spencer Sommers, partner at CO-OP Architecture, today announced his candidacy for the South Dakota House of Representatives in District 3. Sommers brings nearly a decade of community development experience and a platform focused on fiscal efficiency and measurable results.

Sommers has played a central role in the revitalization of downtown Aberdeen and has participated in the planning and design of many of the buildings contributing to Aberdeen’s growth and quality of life, including the K.O. Lee Library, Citizens Bank building, NSU Business and Health Innovation Center and Dacotah Bank Stadium. As a partner managing multimillion-dollar projects, he brings a proven track record of delivering results on time and on budget.

“I want to approach government like a builder: measure twice, cut once, and make every dollar count,” said Sommers. “Value isn’t about what you pay today; it’s about what you don’t have to pay tomorrow. Too often, the Legislature gets caught up in political distractions rather than focusing on real governance. It’s time to work together and get things done for the people of South Dakota.”

GRIT Presents Recommendations to Gov. Rhoden and Congressional Delegation

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, the Governor’s Resilience and Infrastructure Task Force (GRIT) presented its first recommendations to Governor Larry Rhoden and to South Dakota’s congressional delegation.

“My goal as Governor is to keep our state strong, safe, and free, and investing in our state’s infrastructure is key to that safety,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “I appreciate the recommendations GRIT presented, and I will take them under advisement.”

Governor Rhoden established the GRIT task force this summer to serve as a strategic advisory body to develop policy recommendations, assess risks and vulnerabilities, and support long-term planning and investment in critical infrastructure systems across our state.

GRIT specifically recommended that Governor Rhoden include one-time funding for the following infrastructure investments in his budget:

• Hardening systems and equipment at the Bureau of Information and Technology to guard against service outages, such as the outage that occurred in August;
• Cloud-based backup to the state radio, which plays a key role in public safety communications; and
• A nuclear energy study to ensure an all-of-the-above energy approach – more energy flexibility leads to a more stable energy supply.

GRIT also approved a letter to the state’s congressional delegation, supporting the renewal and extension of the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015. That letter can be found here.

“Cybersecurity is not a partisan issue—it is a matter of national resilience and public safety,” wrote Lt. Governor Tony Venhuizen, GRIT Chairman, on behalf of the task force. “Reinstating this framework will reaffirm our shared commitment to protecting the nation’s digital and physical infrastructure and will help ensure that no state, business, or citizen stands alone in the fight against cyber threats.”

GRIT also endorsed a policy bill this upcoming legislative session, which would expand the use of the Dakota State University’s SecureSD: Cybersecurity for Municipalities and Counties Initiative to cover non-profit utility companies such as rural water systems.

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