Noem: Lawmakers “wrong” to reject repeal of grocery tax

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota lawmakers have rejected a proposed repeal of the state’s grocery tax — despite Republican Gov. Kristi Noem’s testimony in support of the measure.

Noem’s testimony Tuesday before the House Appropriations Committee was an unusual move for the leader who has rarely appeared in public this session. She had opposed the $102 million tax cut in the final days of the 2022 legislative session, but she changed course months later to make it a centerpiece of her reelection campaign.

After the measure failed, Noem told reporters she would keep working on the tax cut, and said lawmakers made the “wrong” decision.