South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard gave his farewell address to the state legislature on Monday.
The annual Veto Day is the last time a legislature convenes before officially adjourning for the session. That took place Monday.
During his speech, the governor says he’s proud of the example lawmakers set for fiscal management.
“Yes, you’ll hear me say this one more time,” Daugaard says. “We don’t spend money we don’t have. We use only recurring revenue for ongoing expenses, and one-time money for one-time expenses. We don’t inflate our estimates to accommodate more spending, and when we get a windfall we use it to repay debt or improve an asset. And we fully fund our pension plan. I hope you’ll never forget those core principals, those of you returning, and I hope you’ll pass them on to your successors.”
When Daugaard first took office, the state faced a budget crisis and he cut over $100-million. Fiscal responsibility will likely remain Daugaard’s legacy as governor.
Daugaard was first elected to state senate in 1996. From their he served as lieutenant governor under then-Governor Mike Rounds. He’s wrapping up his two-terms as governor.
After 22 years in state government, Daugaard will give his final annual budget address as an out-going governor in December.