Noem calls on expanding paid family leave, cutting food tax in speech

State of the State address highlights economic development, South Dakota way of life

Gov. Kristi Noem is applauded by a joint session of the Legislature on Jan. 10, 2022, for her State of the State address. To her left is Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden, and to her right is House Speaker Hugh Bartels. (Jonathan Ellis/The Dakota Scout)

Gov. Kristi Noem stayed on script Tuesday, delivering a State of the State address to a joint Legislature that was heavy on freedom, family and economic optimism.

Touting record growth in tourism and business expansion, Noem told lawmakers that the latest sales tax receipts were another $10 million more than budgeted. Those numbers are key as lawmakers start debating the governor’s proposal to eliminate the state 4.5 percent sales tax on groceries. When campaigning for office, Noem visited supermarkets across the state. She estimated Tuesday that one of every four shoppers she saw had to take an item back because they couldn’t afford it.

“Folks, listen, South Dakotans need this relief,” she said.

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