South Dakota News Watch, Inc.

09/26/2025

“We do want to be tough on crime. We do want that, but we also want people to be productive citizens." How helping repeat offenders is part of the prison plan.

While the $650 million project was a contentious issue among legislators, the need to help repeat offenders received a lot of agreement.

09/25/2025

Toxic substances released into the Big Sioux River have decreased the past few years since the report in 2022.

A fact brief that refutes or confirms a claim with supporting information and additional evidence and context.

09/24/2025

"We're going to start losing people if things don't change around." The negative and positive forces hitting .

Soybean farmers are nearing panic mode and corn growers are expecting low prices and profits, but cattle ranchers may see record revenues this year.

09/23/2025

As the South Dakota Legislature convenes for a specioal session about the men's prison, take a look back at decades of debate.

Daylong special session will end with fifth vote on proposed men's facility. “The only way this prison will cost $1 billion is if we keep kicking the can down the road.”

09/23/2025

How South Dakota became a haven for credit card companies:

A fact brief that refutes or confirms a claim with supporting information and additional evidence and context.

09/22/2025

"This is the right plan, at the right price, and the right location. This should be an easy vote.” lawmakers to vote Tuesday on latest men's prison plan.

Daylong special session will end with fifth vote on proposed men's facility. “The only way this prison will cost $1 billion is if we keep kicking the can down the road.”

09/19/2025

Reps from each branch of government told how they keep each other in check. See where to watch it and other upcoming events.

The town halls, discussions and community gatherings are intended to increase civic engagement and help people be informed.

09/19/2025

Last year we chronicled the journey of Taylor Nielsen, a 35-year-old dying from alcohol-associated liver disease. He was the face of a growing problem in South Dakota. Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis is the leading cause of death of South Dakotans in their thirties and forties. By Taylor's side was his caregiver, his father David Nielsen. Recently, the final chapter of their story was written, as Megan Luther reports.

Chronic liver disease is now the leading cause of death of South Dakotans in their 30s. “Alcohol is particularly challenging because it's prevalent. It's relatively cheap, and it's not in any way illegal."

09/18/2025

Gov. Larry Rhoden attended Sunshine Bible Academy in Miller. Did any other governors graduate from private schools? The latest Fact Brief:

A fact brief that refutes or confirms a claim with supporting information and additional evidence and context.

09/17/2025

"If you're open to the magic, is going to provide." State's movie industry growing despite no incentives.

A new movie supposedly set in the state shows desert vistas and Southwestern-style buildings because it was shot in New Mexico.

09/16/2025

Attend or watch Thursday's "Separation of Powers Town Hall" from the Capitol and on SDPB from 8-9:30 p.m. Central time. Leaders from the 3 branches of government are taking part. Tickets: https://buff.ly/GwU70C8

09/16/2025

A fact brief on whether diverging diamonds that send vehicles to the left side of the road are any safer.

A fact brief that refutes or confirms a claim with supporting information and additional evidence and context.