South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, and longtime legislative lobbyist, David Owen stopped in Mitchell recently for a post-legislative briefing.
He believes addressing property tax relief was the most significant issue where lawmakers made some headway. “We didn’t find a particularly compelling solution,” said Owen. “The Governor put forth a workable solution, and he understands that issue as much as anyone.”
Owen believes property tax relief will return as a major issue in 2026. “They’re going to study it over the summer,” Owen continued. “And I think that’s an elusive kind of issue.”
He won’t be on hand for next year’s legislative session as Owen is retiring after leading the Chamber of Commerce and Industry since 1998.