As several industries in communities throughout the state struggle to fill skilled positions, workforce development has gained increased attention in the South Dakota legislature. Candidates running to be representatives for District 17 have different opinions on how to fix the problem. Marion Sorlien, a democrat from Viborg, says it all boils down to education.

Ray Ring, also a democrat, from Vermillion suggests technical schools should be better funded to train skilled workers.

Nancy Rasmussen is a republican in Hurley. She believes students in South Dakota should be better persuaded to stay in the state.

Republican Sheri Kaufman, from Vermillion, says the government shouldn’t be playing a big role in workforce development.