25th District Representative Randy Gross
I wish to thank the citizens of Moody and Minnehaha counties for the honor of serving in the South Dakota House of Representatives on your behalf. I continue to serve on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and am Vice-Chair of the Transportation Committee.
In addition, as a Veteran, I am honored to serve on the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. At the last session, I was elected by my fellow Representatives to serve on the Legislative Executive Board.
At the beginning of each Legislative Session, I reflect on ways I can best represent the people of the 25th District. Last year, more than 450 bills and resolutions were introduced. Before this 2024 session even began, there were many bills pre-filed, covering a wide range of issues. Even the most experienced legislators can't be experts on every topic. However, we all need to be diligent in gathering good information from those who are best informed. I am impressed with the quality, dedication, and diversity of our citizen legislature. Those serving in Pierre offer a wide range of talent and expertise on issues.
It is easy for South Dakotans to follow the legislative process. An excellent starting point is the Legislative Research Council (LRC) website www.sdlegislature.gov It provides comprehensive information on bills, committee agendas, and floor action. You can read bill texts, see when they are scheduled for committee hearing and find out what amendments have been offered and/or approved. You can also listen to committee discussion and floor debate and see how legislators vote.
When communicating with legislators, here are a few points to remember. Emails and messages from those in the 25th District receive more attention than those from outside the district. Anonymous emails and those from out-of-state groups generally receive limited attention. Our phones are turned off/silent during committee and session activities.
Emails should be brief. Identify the issue (use the bill number if you know it) and explain how it impacts you.
Copy and paste emails and those where you simply put your name on something someone else composed are NOT effective. It is far better to explain one or two key points in your own words about why you support or oppose a measure.
Also remember that we have a diverse district and legislators are hearing from constituents on both sides of any controversial issue. Therefore, it is helpful if you can point out unintended effects and offer supported, technical information or offer solutions. If you have constructive suggestions or workable alternatives, please let us know.
Bills are just beginning the process of working their way through committees. Committees meet in the mornings and the full House and Senate each meet in the afternoon. The pace will pick up during the second week.
On Tuesday Governor Noem presented her State of the State address. On Wednesday we heard the State of the Judiciary address from the Chief Justice Jensen and the State of the Tribes address from Tribal Vice-President Cyndi Allen-Weddell of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe.
This is your government, and all citizens are welcome to visit the Capital and testify on bills or simply observe the process. I can be contacted at .
