MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — South Dakota lawmakers are entering the final stretch of the 2026 legislative session, with major budget decisions and property tax debates coming to a head ahead of key deadlines.
Education advocates say school districts across the state are already tightening budgets and could face significant reductions without a stronger state commitment to K-12 funding. Stephanie Hageman, president of the South Dakota Education Association, said some districts are discussing cuts ranging from $1 million to $3 million, which she warned could hurt classroom learning and student support services.
The push comes after the state’s latest revenue forecast projected collections about $30.9 million higher than expected, giving lawmakers additional room as they set final spending targets. Legislative leaders have discussed using the added revenue for a roughly 1.25% increase for what lawmakers often call the “big three” — K-12 education, state employee pay and community service providers — though broader budget demands remain.
Beyond school funding, lawmakers are still weighing proposals tied to property tax relief and other late-session priorities.
Under the Legislature’s session calendar, Monday, March 9, is the deadline for most bills and joint resolutions to pass both chambers.
