Legislative Advocacy

During the 2026 South Dakota legislative session, SDEEC took a targeted approach, focusing on high-priority education bills that most directly impacted Native students, families, and communities.

To support community participation, SDEEC tracked key legislation, shared updates through social media, and expanded access to civic engagement through Action Network. SDEEC also hosted a virtual public testimony training in early January, equipping participants with tools to prepare and deliver effective testimony during legislative hearings.

Together, the 2026 legislative session reflected both meaningful progress and continued work ahead to ensure education policy in South Dakota supports Native students, families, and communities.

Current Calls to Action

Past Wins & Key Efforts

HB 1082

One important success this session was the passage of HB 1082, which reimburses schools for unpaid meal balances when families eligible for reduced-price meals cannot cover the remaining cost. Earlier in 2025, after learning that schools were considering sending student meal debt to collections, SDEEC raised awareness through an Action Network letter campaign. More than 500 community messages were sent calling for a more equitable approach. 

When HB 1082 was introduced, SDEEC recognized it as a systems-level solution and used Action Network and social media to help community members track the bill and engage with the legislative process. The bill was signed by the Governor in 2026! This is an important step toward ensuring students are not penalized for poverty and a powerful example of how community voice can inform meaningful policy change.

SDEEC will continue to monitor and support the implementation of the legislation.

HB 1082

SDEEC raised concerns regarding SB 190, which could have delayed access to school-based mental health services for students. Community members, educators, and advocates emphasized the importance of timely mental health support for students across South Dakota. The bill ultimately did not advance.

HB 1017

SDEEC also monitored HB 1017, which expanded schools’ ability to move students into alternative educational settings due to behavioral concerns. Many educators, families, and advocates raised concerns about the potential impact on student access, support, and educational continuity. The bill ultimately passed during the 2026 legislative session.

HB 1225A

SDEEC supported HB 1225A, which proposed returning the Office of Indian Education to the South Dakota Department of Education in an effort to strengthen coordination and support for Native students.

While the bill was ultimately tabled, the conversations surrounding HB 1225A reflected growing recognition of the importance of stronger state–Tribal partnership and collaboration in education.

THREE WAYS TO TAKE ACTION

  • Call, email, or visit your legislator and let them know what issues you care about and that impact your community. Ask them to take action on key legislation or policies.

  • Volunteer to testify and share your story in front of lawmakers at legislative hearings.

  • Make your voice heard and elect people who represent your interests.

Civic Engagement Resources

How to Find Your Legislators

Video Courtesy of Dr. Abby Menter

Testimony Training

Training Courtesy of Paul Barnhardt