South Dakota House members faced a significant decision as they attempted to override Gov. Larry Rhoden’s veto of a childcare assistance bill. Despite efforts from House Minority Leader Erin Healy to push for the override, the vote ultimately fell short with a vote of 27-43, missing the two-thirds majority required. The bill, known as House Bill 1132, would have expanded childcare assistance eligibility for workers at licensed facilities with incomes up to 300 percent of the federal poverty level, compared to the current 209 percent limit.
Healy argued that South Dakota families, businesses, and childcare workers needed the bill to pass, especially in light of staffing shortages leading to empty classrooms. On the other hand, Rep. John Hughes opposed the override, warning about setting a negative precedent by subsidizing individual sectors of the economy.
While supporters like Rep. William Shorma emphasized the economic development needs the bill would address, opponents like Rep. Jack Kolbeck highlighted financial concerns and potential equity issues created by the expanded program. The bill would have allowed families earning up to $93,600 annually to qualify for assistance, compared to the current $67,000 limit.
Gov. Rhoden justified his veto by arguing that the bill strayed from the program’s core mission and could jeopardize assistance for currently eligible families. The issue is scheduled to be revisited on Veto Day, set for March 31st.
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