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Bill

SB 189

provide for an automatic refund of an assessment on crops, livestock, and milk.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Baxter and 9 co-sponsors

SB 189 establishes automatic refunds for agricultural assessments on crops, livestock, and milk to reduce producer burden and streamline the claims process.

Scheduled for hearing S.J. 1
#administrativeprocedure #agricultureandhorticulture #fees
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Bill Summary · SB 189

Legislative bill overview

SB 189 would establish an automatic refund mechanism for assessments levied on crops, livestock, and milk in South Dakota. The bill appears designed to streamline the refund process by removing the need for manual applications or claims. This would apply to agricultural producers who have paid these assessments but may be entitled to refunds under certain circumstances.

Why is this important

Agricultural assessments fund various industry programs, research, and marketing initiatives, but producers sometimes overpay or become ineligible for certain assessments. An automatic refund system could improve cash flow for farming operations and reduce administrative burden on both producers and the state. This is particularly relevant given agriculture's tight profit margins and the cumulative impact of multiple assessments across commodities.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding impact: Automatic refunds could reduce revenue for agricultural commodity programs and research initiatives that depend on these assessments
  • Implementation complexity: Determining which assessments qualify for automatic refunds and identifying eligible recipients requires clear definitions and data systems
  • Industry division: Commodity groups and agricultural organizations may have conflicting views on refund eligibility and whether reduced assessment revenue harms industry programs they support

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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