South Dakota open government in the news: Action and reaction

An open government measure fell a single vote short of passage Tuesday, after a spirited debate that divided both parties in the South Dakota House of Representatives. House Bill 1113 would require members of public boards to treat discussion of official business through email, text messages and other electronic means as public records.

The House of Representatives fell one "yes" vote shy Tuesday of approving a major expansion of South Dakota’s open-government laws. The vote was 35-34 in favor, but the measure needed 36 votes for passage. Rep. Scott Munsterman, R-Brookings, notified House members that he intends to have the matter reconsidered since one lawmaker missed the vote. HB1113 would expand the definition of teleconference meetings of public bodies to cover decisions reached through text messages, emails and chat rooms.

South Dakota's dismal record on openness in government would greatly improve if the Legislature acts to approve the recommendations of the Open Government Task Force. Unfortunately, the enthusiasm of state lawmakers to seriously tackle open government reform appears to be fading.