States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Support Small Business! Governor Polis Encourages All Coloradans to Shop Small for Small Business Saturday
DENVER, Colorado, Nov. 30 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Support Small Business! Governor Polis Encourages All Coloradans to Shop Small for Small Business Saturday
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STATEWIDE \- Ahead of Small Business Saturday, Governor Polis encourages all Coloradans to get out in the community to support a local business and take part in the holiday festivities.
"Shop small Colorado! Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to explore your local neighborhood retailers and support a local business. Colorado is home to a vibrant and thriving small business
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DENVER, Colorado, Nov. 30 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Support Small Business! Governor Polis Encourages All Coloradans to Shop Small for Small Business Saturday
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STATEWIDE \- Ahead of Small Business Saturday, Governor Polis encourages all Coloradans to get out in the community to support a local business and take part in the holiday festivities.
"Shop small Colorado! Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to explore your local neighborhood retailers and support a local business. Colorado is home to a vibrant and thriving small businesscommunity that supports our economy and encourages more people to start and grow a business in our amazing state," said Governor Polis.
Colorado was recently recognized as one of the best places to start and grow a business. Under Governor Polis's leadership, Colorado has successfully reduced the income tax three times, and taken important steps to save businesses money on property taxes.
Coloradans looking to shop small this Saturday, November 29th can explore small businesses in their local communities, shop local through Colorado Proud or check out the Office Economic Development and International Trade's Minority Business Office BIPOC affiliate for more participating small businesses across the state.
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Original text here: https://www.colorado.gov/governor/news/support-small-business-governor-polis-encourages-all-coloradans-shop-small-small-business
Governor Polis Renews Executive Action to Protect Coloradans from Costly Federal Actions
DENVER, Colorado, Nov. 30 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Governor Polis Renews Executive Action to Protect Coloradans from Costly Federal Actions
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DENVER - Today, Governor Polis signed Executive Order D 2025 022, which renews and extends Executive Order D 2025 014 and Executive Order D 2025 020. These Executive Orders renew the suspension of certain spending to ensure Colorado's budget is balanced after federal actions created an unexpected and unnecessary shortfall. H.R. 1 reduced state revenue by over $1.2 billion, eliminating the state's surplus,
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DENVER, Colorado, Nov. 30 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Governor Polis Renews Executive Action to Protect Coloradans from Costly Federal Actions
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DENVER - Today, Governor Polis signed Executive Order D 2025 022, which renews and extends Executive Order D 2025 014 and Executive Order D 2025 020. These Executive Orders renew the suspension of certain spending to ensure Colorado's budget is balanced after federal actions created an unexpected and unnecessary shortfall. H.R. 1 reduced state revenue by over $1.2 billion, eliminating the state's surplus,and putting Colorado's budget $800 million out of balance for Fiscal Year 2025-26. Because the consequences of H.R. 1 are ongoing, Executive Order D 2025 022 extends the Executive Orders until February 28, 2026.
Governor Polis also provided a letter to the Joint Budget Committee outlining the details of the extension.
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Original text here: https://www.colorado.gov/governor/news/governor-polis-renews-executive-action-protect-coloradans-costly-federal-actions
Governor Morrisey Honors National Guard Members Ambushed in DC
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Patrick Morrisey, R-West Virginia, issued the following news:
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Governor Morrisey Honors National Guard Members Ambushed in DC
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CHARLESTON, WV Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a formal proclamation requesting that all West Virginians observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer today at 2:15 p.m. to honor Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe and Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, the two West Virginia National Guard members who were ambushed while serving in Washington, D.C. Governor Morrisey has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of the
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CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Patrick Morrisey, R-West Virginia, issued the following news:
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Governor Morrisey Honors National Guard Members Ambushed in DC
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CHARLESTON, WV Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a formal proclamation requesting that all West Virginians observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer today at 2:15 p.m. to honor Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe and Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, the two West Virginia National Guard members who were ambushed while serving in Washington, D.C. Governor Morrisey has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of thepassing of Specialist Beckstrom last night.
"These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nation's capital when they were maliciously attacked," Governor Morrisey said. "Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state. I am asking every West Virginian to pause at 2:15 p.m. on Friday to pray for their families and their fellow service members."
Earlier this year, President Donald J. Trump mobilized the District of Columbia National Guard to address rising violent crime in the nation's capital and directed the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with state governors to supply additional National Guard personnel as needed. In response to that directive, Governor Morrisey mobilized members of the West Virginia National Guard to active service in Washington, D.C.
SSgt Wolfe, 24, of Martinsburg, serves with the 167th Force Support Squadron. SPC Beckstrom, 20, of Summersville, served with the 863rd Military Police Company. Both were conducting security operations near the Farragut West Metro Station on November 26 when they were ambushed and shot shortly after 2:15 p.m.
Swift action by nearby National Guard members and law enforcement officers stopped the attacker and prevented further violence. Both Guardsmen were rushed to the hospital, and SSgt Wolfe remains in very critical condition.
"The people of West Virginia stand united in condemning this cowardly and evil act," Governor Morrisey said. "We honor SSgt Wolfe for his courage, and we honor SPC Beckstrom for making the ultimate sacrifice in service to her state and nation. We hold their families, their friends, and their fellow Guardsmen in our deepest thoughts and prayers. This moment of silence, and lowering of the flags, is one small way to demonstrate our gratitude, our respect, and our support during this painful and heartbreaking time."
It is important to remember that in the true spirit of serving in America's armed forces, both SSgt Wolfe and SPC Beckstrom stepped forward and volunteered for this mission, placing themselves in harm's way to protect our state and our nation. Their bravery and selflessness reflect the courage, sacrifice, and quiet strength that have defined both West Virginians and those who serve for generations.
You can read the full text of the proclamation here.
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Original text here: https://governor.wv.gov/article/governor-morrisey-honors-national-guard-members-ambushed-dc
Governor Lamont Orders Special Election on January 13 for State Representative Seat in Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich
HARTFORD, Connecticut, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Ned Lamont, D-Connecticut, issued the following news release:
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Governor Lamont Orders Special Election on January 13 for State Representative Seat in Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich
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(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has scheduled Tuesday, January 13, 2026, as the date to hold a special election to fill a vacancy for state representative in the 139 th Assembly District, which consists of portions of Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich.
The seat was most recently held by State Representative Kevin Ryan, who died on Sunday.
... Show Full Article
HARTFORD, Connecticut, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Ned Lamont, D-Connecticut, issued the following news release:
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Governor Lamont Orders Special Election on January 13 for State Representative Seat in Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich
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(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has scheduled Tuesday, January 13, 2026, as the date to hold a special election to fill a vacancy for state representative in the 139 th Assembly District, which consists of portions of Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich.
The seat was most recently held by State Representative Kevin Ryan, who died on Sunday.
Under state law, the governor is required to issue a writ of special election within 10 days of a seat in the General Assembly becoming vacant, and a special election must be held exactly 46 days from the day that the writ is issued. Governor Lamont issued the writ today.
** Download : Governor Lamont's special election writ for the 139 th Assembly District
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Original text here: https://portal.ct.gov/governor/news/press-releases/2025/11-2025/governor-lamont-orders-special-election-on-january-13-for-state-representative-seat
Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Shop Small During the Holiday Season
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Shop Small During the Holiday Season
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Governor Kathy Hochul today encouraged New Yorkers to support local businesses during the holiday shopping season by highlighting the critical role New York's small businesses play in building vibrant communities across the state. On November 29, New York will mark Small Business Saturday to celebrate the significant impact small businesses have on local economies across the state. In honor of the day, Governor
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ALBANY, New York, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Shop Small During the Holiday Season
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Governor Kathy Hochul today encouraged New Yorkers to support local businesses during the holiday shopping season by highlighting the critical role New York's small businesses play in building vibrant communities across the state. On November 29, New York will mark Small Business Saturday to celebrate the significant impact small businesses have on local economies across the state. In honor of the day, GovernorHochul is taking the opportunity to emphasize how choosing local retailers, restaurants and service providers creates a ripple effect of economic growth throughout New York's communities.
"Every time we choose a local shop, restaurant, or service provider, we're investing in our neighbors and our neighborhoods," Governor Hochul said. "As the daughter of a small business owner, I know the long hours, hard work, and heart that go into running a family business. Small Business Saturday is a reminder that our local enterprises aren't just places to shop, they're engines of opportunity and cornerstones of community. This holiday season, I encourage New Yorkers to shop small and help keep our main streets thriving."
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "New York's small businesses drive innovation, create jobs, and define the character of our communities. When we support them, we're not only fueling local growth we're preserving the character and creativity that make New York unique. Empire State Development is proud to support entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources, programs, and capital they need to grow and succeed in every region of the state."
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "New York's hard-working farmers and agribusinesses produce some of the finest products out there, and the best way to celebrate the holiday season is by sharing these locally-made treats with the people you care about most. When you choose to shop small this holiday season, you are supporting local farmers and small businesses, boosting the economy, and giving unique, beautiful gifts to your loved ones. I encourage everyone to 'think local' during Small Business Saturday and all season long."
New York State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "Small businesses are at the very heart of the State's diverse and robust economy. The New York State Department of Labor offers a wealth of resources including workforce recruitment assistance and identifying tax credits and incentives to help businesses thrive. I encourage New Yorkers to shop small and shop local this holiday season and beyond."
Small Business Saturday celebrates the innovation, creativity, and determination of entrepreneurs who fuel the state's economy. Across New York, small businesses those with fewer than 100 employees account for 98 percent of all businesses and employ nearly 40 percent of the private-sector workforce. From retail and restaurants to tech startups and family farms, these enterprises strengthen local economies, preserve neighborhood character, and keep dollars circulating within our communities.
New York's retail sector includes more than 70,000 stores, of which approximately 56,700 81 percent are independently owned. Retailers are a critical engine of economic activity: 7.35 percent of all New York small businesses are retailers, the sector generated $507 billion in sales in 2024, and retail stores collected $20.3 billion in state sales tax. Retail workers across the state earn an average of $971 per week, underscoring the industry's essential role in supporting jobs, household income, and local economic growth.
Under Governor Hochul's leadership, New York State has expanded access to capital, technical assistance, and training to help entrepreneurs launch, grow, and strengthen their businesses. Empire State Development offers a suite of programs tailored to meet the needs of startups, early-stage ventures, and established small businesses across every region of the state, including:
* Main Street Capital Loan Fund: Provides loans of up to $100,000 to startups and early-stage businesses, with a focus on communities that have historically lacked access to affordable credit. Loans may be used for working capital, equipment, essential assets, and hiring. To lower early startup costs, borrowers make interest-only payments during the first year. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/main-street-capital-loan-fund
* Small Business Technical Assistance: A statewide program offering free expert legal, accounting, and financial services to help small businesses and startups navigate funding requirements and improve access to capital. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/ssbci-technical-assistance-program
* Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers: A network of 26 centers providing training, technical assistance, and business development support to new and early-stage entrepreneurs. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/entrepreneurship-assistance-centers-program
* Low Interest Capital Program (LINC): Formerly the Linked Deposit Program, LINC was expanded by Governor Hochul to increase total loan capacity from $560 million to $1.1 billion. The program helps small businesses secure financing at more affordable interest rates, supporting approximately 6,000 businesses, enabling $2 billion in lending, and leveraging over $4 billion in new capital investments. Learn more: https://esd.ny.gov/linked-deposit-program
The New York State Department of Labor offers a number of no-cost services for businesses of all sizes. Businesses have access to nearly 190,000 job postings and tens of thousands of qualified candidates in our talent pool on our website. NYSDOL also provides career fairs, customized recruitments, and human resources consultation services. Each year, more than 25,000 businesses partner with NYSDOL to list open positions, find candidates, access hiring and training incentives, obtain business tax credits, and get expert help with labor law, workplace health and safety, and layoff resources. For more information, visit: dol.ny.gov/services-businesses.
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets supports New York's nearly 32,000 farms, 700 farmers' markets and farm stands, and thousands of small agribusinesses through a variety of initiatives that aim to enhance their business and increase productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. It also provides direct promotional opportunities through initiatives like the NYS Grown & Certified program and the Taste NY program. New Yorkers and visitors alike can support New York farmers and food and beverage businesses by shopping for the holidays at any one of the more than 70 Taste NY locations across the State, including Taste NY Markets at the State's Welcome Centers. The markets are stocked with local products made and produced by New York farms and food and beverage producers unique to the State's 10 regions. From local, gourmet food items and locally produced craft beverages to novelty items and even bath and beauty products, gifts at stores range in size and price and can be customized. Visit taste.ny.gov to find your local Welcome Center and Taste NY Market.
Taste NY's online marketplace, ShopTasteNY.com, operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County, also offers opportunities to shop for New York agricultural products and gifts from the comfort of home. ShopTasteNY.com offers a variety of products from across New York, from honey and jams to hand crafted creations, reflecting each region's unique offerings. Shoppers can get 30 percent off on their order during Small Business Saturday.
Ways To Support Small Businesses Every Day
* Shop Local: Visit independently owned retailers and service providers in your community.
* Buy Gift Cards: Support local businesses with upfront sales that encourage future visits.
* Explore Farmers' Markets: Find unique, locally made gifts and seasonal foods.
* Shop Taste NY: Discover the best of New York's farms and artisans at Taste NY locations or online at Taste.NY.gov.
* Dine Locally: Enjoy meals at neighborhood restaurants and cafes.
* Spread the Word: Share your experiences on social media and review sites.
* Choose Store Credit: When returning items, opt for store credit to keep money circulating locally.
Contact the Governor's Press Office
Contact us by phone:
Albany: (518) 474-8418
New York City: (212) 681-4640
Contact us by email:
Press.Office@exec.ny.gov
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Original text here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-encourages-new-yorkers-shop-small-during-holiday-season
Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Weather Threat
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
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Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Weather Threat
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Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of potential severe storms expected to impact Southeast and East Texas beginning tomorrow.
"Texas is prepared to swiftly respond to severe storms expected across the southeastern and eastern portion of the state," said Governor Abbott. "Today, I directed the Texas Division
... Show Full Article
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
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Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Weather Threat
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Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of potential severe storms expected to impact Southeast and East Texas beginning tomorrow.
"Texas is prepared to swiftly respond to severe storms expected across the southeastern and eastern portion of the state," said Governor Abbott. "Today, I directed the Texas Divisionof Emergency Management to activate all necessary resources to assist Texas communities ahead of potential severe weather. Texans are encouraged to regularly monitor road conditions, make an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials."
According to the National Weather Service, a strong storm system accompanying a cold front will move across East and Southeast Texas tomorrow, bringing the potential for heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding. Additional risks include damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. The threat is expected to persist through the holiday weekend, and Texans are urged to stay up to date by monitoring local forecast information.
At the Governor's direction, the following state emergency response resources are available to support local storm response operations:
* Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1) : Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads to assist with flood rescues
* Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force) : Severe Weather Support Packages consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles
* Texas Parks and Wildlife Department : Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capability to assist with flood rescues
* Texas Department of Public Safety : Helicopters with hoist capability, Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, and the Tactical Marine Unit
* Texas Department of Transportation : Personnel monitoring road conditions
* Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service : Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents, as well as County Extension Agents, to support agricultural and livestock needs
* Public Utility Commission of Texas : Power outage monitoring and coordination with utility providers
* Railroad Commission of Texas : Monitoring of the state's natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
* Texas Commission on Environmental Quality : Air, water, and wastewater monitoring
Additionally, Texas emergency management officials are monitoring the forecast for increasingly cold temperatures anticipated to reach the state early next week with the possibility of snowfall and icy conditions in Northwest Texas, in addition to the sub-freezing temperatures. Texans are encouraged to make a plan, pack an emergency supply kit, and follow instructions from local officials.
Texans can locate storm safety tips at TexasReady.gov, check real-time road conditions at DriveTexas.org, and obtain flood safety information at TexasFlood.org. All-hazards preparedness resources are available at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
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Original text here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-activates-state-emergency-response-resources-ahead-of-severe-weather-threat1
Budget Principles
PIERRE, South Dakota, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Larry Rhoden, R-South Dakota, issued the following news release:
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Budget Principles
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I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving full of time with family and friends, great food, and gratitude for our abundance of blessings. As Thanksgiving turns to Christmas and gratitude turns to generosity, I'm preparing to present a balanced budget to the South Dakota Legislature.
We do a lot of things right in South Dakota. Our people are some of the most generous in the nation. A big reason for that is our government doesn't tax them to death, so they have
... Show Full Article
PIERRE, South Dakota, Nov. 28 -- Gov. Larry Rhoden, R-South Dakota, issued the following news release:
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Budget Principles
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I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving full of time with family and friends, great food, and gratitude for our abundance of blessings. As Thanksgiving turns to Christmas and gratitude turns to generosity, I'm preparing to present a balanced budget to the South Dakota Legislature.
We do a lot of things right in South Dakota. Our people are some of the most generous in the nation. A big reason for that is our government doesn't tax them to death, so they havethe flexibility to give more of their own hard-earned income in support of their neighbors.
I've served in the Capitol for over 20 years, including 16 years in both chambers of the Legislature and six years as Lieutenant Governor under Governor Noem. For all of those years, I was engaged in the budget process - but this will be the first budget with my name on it, so I'd like to set the table with some core budget principles for how I approached this budget.
First and foremost, this money is the people's money - not ours. So we spend it wisely and return it to the people when we can. We balance our budget. Every year. For 136 years in a row - and this budget will make the 137th. And we don't use any gimmicks to do it - we structurally balance our budget. To achieve that, we don't spend money we don't have.
More specifically, we don't spend one-time money on ongoing expenses. We use one-time dollars to pay debt, invest in projects that will have a long-term benefit, or endow an ongoing cost to save taxpayer money over the long haul. We don't engage in wishful thinking - we conservatively project revenue and expenses. We maintain at least 10% of our budget in reserves to save for true emergencies. And we fully fund our pension and protect our AAA credit rating.
These are principles we have followed in the past, and I am strongly committed to following them as well. If we do, we'll be in good shape, no matter how tough it gets.
My budget invests in our people. It keeps South Dakota strong, safe, and free by making targeted investments where we should, saving extra money for the future, and still paving the way for property tax relief. We recognize these dollars aren't ours. They belong to the good people of South Dakota. As our state motto says: "Under God, the People Rule."
I look forward to sharing my budget with the Legislature and the people of South Dakota, then working through it in the upcoming legislative session. In the meantime, may God continue to bless the great state of South Dakota.
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Original text here: https://news.sd.gov/news?id=news_kb_article_view&sys_id=791e1e7c47a97e10da219464336d43bf
