(SDPB – Pierre, SD) Gov. Larry Rhoden signed Senate Bill 216 Thursday, capping a legislative journey that delivered the only property tax relief measure of the 100th legislative session.
The ceremony took place in the Capitol Rotunda, where Rhoden was surrounded by Republican legislative leaders and administration officials as he signed the bill.
The measure aims to slow property tax increases by limiting annual assessment growth for owner-occupied homes to 3 percent for tax years 2027 through 2031.
“We’re here today to address the burden of rising taxes for South Dakota homeowners,” Rhoden said.
The bill also expands eligibility for the property tax assessment freeze program by increasing income thresholds from $35,000 to $55,000 for single-member households and $45,000 to $65,000 for multiple-member households. The maximum home value eligible rises from $350,000 to $500,000.
“It was a quick and very efficient process, and I believe it was a good process,” Rhoden said, gesturing to the lawmakers standing behind him.
The bill, which initially failed in the House before being revived and passed 53-16, limits revenue increases for taxing districts to 3 percent during the same five-year period.
“216 is a win for South Dakota homeowners. The bill is impactful and workable, and it will certainly buffer any future tax increases,” Rhoden said.
The governor credited legislative cooperation for the bill’s passage.
“I want to thank everyone that worked with me to get this bill passed, especially to the representatives and senators on our working group,” Rhoden said.
The bill was the sole survivor of several property tax measures considered this session. The legislature also approved a summer study to examine long-term property tax solutions.
