The South Dakota Pork Producers Council is tracking possible state legislation that could impact livestock development and the zoning process in the state. Past President and Alcester producer Steve Rommereim says they’ve been lobbying for changes in the state’s Family Farm Act. He says not all species are treated equally and there are limits on the pork industry that are keeping operations from bringing on the next generation.

Rommereim says this change is to help family owned pork operations that are incorporated, but is not intended to open the door for other corporate owners, such as packers.

He says they’re also expecting state lawmakers to look at a bill that would make it easier for county zoning boards to get out of making local decisions on livestock permits.

Last year South Dakota lawmakers passed a bill that among other changes, allowed county zoning boards to use a simple majority instead of a super majority to approve a livestock permit.