SIOUX FALLS - South Dakota Democratic Party Executive Director Dan Ahlers released the following statement regarding HB 1224 "An act to defund the Huron School District."

"Throughout this legislative session, we have seen numerous bills aimed at weakening and defunding our public school system. Constitutionally, one of our government's top priorities is to establish and maintain a public school system, without charge, equal and open to all. Unfortunately, this assault on education has not been just from the extreme right. For decades, the Republicans in Pierre have been working to undermine our state library, universities, administrators and teachers with their harmful rhetoric and legislation. This session has been no different with private school vouchers, budget cuts and bills to defund schools."

"Representative Phil Jensen, Vice Chair of House Education, has submitted HB 1224 to defund the Huron School District. This bill is a bullying tactic and retaliation for the Huron Superintendent speaking out against school vouchers. This is intended to be a warning for all schools. These actions are beneath the office that Rep. Jensen holds. I had just returned home from Pierre on Tuesday with a group of college students when this bill dropped. These students spent an entire morning listening to bills and testimony in House Education. One these students remarked how nervous she was, at first, to be among our states leaders. She expected intelligent, professionals. After spending two days watching our legislators, her comment was...clearly this is not the case."

"Democrats will continue to support and fight for a strong public education system in ALL of our communities. We understand that the stability of our state hinges on its morality and intelligence of its people."

For questions, you can contact the SDDP Executive Director Dan Ahlers at [email protected] or contact the state party office by phone at 605-271-5405 or 605-940-3071.