Make an appropriation to provide a grant for the infrastructure and construction of a new justice center in Lincoln County and to declare an emergency.
Impact
Should HB1132 be enacted, it will have immediate implications for the justice system in Lincoln County, particularly concerning the construction of essential facilities. The bill mandates that the Department of Public Safety must confirm the necessity of the project through an assessment from the grantee, which underscores the importance of demonstrating the local need for a modern justice center that includes courtrooms, a jail, and offices for court administration.
Summary
House Bill 1132 is an appropriation bill aimed at providing significant funding for the construction and infrastructure of a new justice center in Lincoln County, South Dakota. The bill proposes an allocation of $10,000,000 from the state general fund, along with an additional $10,000,000 in federal funds under the American Rescue Plan Act. The primary objective of the bill is to enhance local judicial infrastructure, which is seen as crucial for accommodating court operations and law enforcement facilities in Lincoln County.
Contention
The bill does not seem to have been met with major opposition in its initial stages, as revealed by the voting history. However, potential points of contention could arise from discussions about the use of federal funds and the implications of appropriating such a large sum for a local project. Concerns may also be raised regarding the alignment of this project with broader state or national priorities, especially concerning budget allocations and resource management.
Notable_points
The bill includes a provision that any allocated funds that are not expended or obligated by June 30, 2026, will revert to the state, ensuring accountability in the use of appropriated funds. Additionally, the emergency declaration tied to this bill suggests that the construction and establishment of the justice center are considered urgent by the lawmakers, indicating their commitment to improving public safety infrastructure.
Authorize the Board of Regents to contract for the demolition of Briscoe Hall and the existing Lincoln Hall, and the design and construction of the new Lincoln Hall, at Northern State University, to make an appropriation therefor, and to declare an emergency.
Create the jail improvement and construction fund for the improvement and construction of jails, to make an appropriation therefor, and to declare an emergency.
Make an appropriation to the Department of Game, Fish and Parks to improve and repair infrastructure around Hiddenwood Lake and to declare an emergency.