PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Senate agreed with the Rhoden Administration today (Thursday) to cut funding for anti-tobacco trust fund.
Senate Bill 54 reduces from $5 million a year to $2 million for the anti-smoking and vaping efforts.
Republican Sen. Taffy Howard from Rapid City said smoking and vaping rates are down for youth, showing the success of the program.
However, Republican Sen. Kevin Jensen from Canton, who has worked in addiction treatment, said the reduction puts the state on the “addiction funding roller-coaster.”
He said constant public education is needed to keep tobacco rates low. Otherwise, they will rebound.
The Senate passed SB 54 on a 21 to 14 vote.
The measure now heads to the House.
