South Dakota’s peak tourism season, including events like the Sturgis Rally, brings millions of dollars to the state through sales tax revenue.
However, counties that provide essential services like ambulances, search and rescue, and law enforcement often do not receive any of the tax funds.
The lack of funding and increasing calls for assistance are putting a strain on county resources, which rely heavily on volunteers and fundraisers.
A legislative study is exploring ways to better support these resource-strained counties, including considering options like enabling sales tax for counties or changing the distribution of liquor taxes.
Recommendations from the study could become bills in the next legislative session.