State lawmakers are upholding Governor Kristi Noem’s style and form veto for second century funds for pheasant habitat.
Noem’s veto on Wednesday inserted a new section that states the act is effective on June 28 of 2019, two days before the new fiscal year.
In her veto message, Noem says the legislative intent was the appropriation would take place in fiscal year 2019.
Republican State Representative Taffy Howard says Noem’s veto sets a bad precedent.
“You may love the bill. Everyone knows I voted against this bill from the beginning,” Howard says. “I disagree with taxpayer funds being used for this purpose. But, that is no longer the issue. This is a constitutional issue. We should all be in agreement that we need to uphold the oath that we took.”
It’s the sixth time house lawmakers voted on the appropriation to the second century fund.
Noem says she will go out and fundraise money for pheasant habitat. The dollars will get used to match any donations.