(SDBA – Pierre, SD) A West River lawmaker’s proposal to defund the Huron School District has sparked widespread backlash at the South Dakota State Capitol.
His one-sentence House Bill 1224 would have prohibited the state from sending general fund aid to the district. Jensen says it came about because of a message he got from a parent in the district about biological boys using girls’ restrooms in the schools.
Jensen, a Rapid City Republican, withdrew the bill after facing intense criticism.
“It was to get the school district’s attention,” Jensen said.
Jensen’s decision to pull the bill came after meeting with House leadership and agreeing to step down as vice-chair of the House Education Committee.
“I think (stepping down) is necessary to placate those who are extremely upset with my bill,” Jensen continued.
Rep. Lana Greenfield, who represents District 22, which includes Huron, voiced disappointment in Jensen’s actions.
“He tried to put in a substitute motion on one of our last bills and I did not entertain that at all,” Greenfield said. “The district of Huron is owed an apology.”
Sen. David Wheeler, a Huron graduate, joined the chorus of condemnation, calling Huron “a great town” and “the best school district in the state.”
Jonathan Ellis of The Dakota Scout contributed to this report.
