South Dakota lawmakers return to Pierre January 9 for the 2018 session. Stockgrowers Association members have already prioritized their legislative goals. Executive Director Silvia Christen says they want to keep sales tax exemptions in place for agriculture, which may be difficult given the state budget challenges.

She says it becomes a financial burden for producers if they’re forced to pay sales taxes on their inputs.

Christen says they’ll also be watching for anticipated legislation from the South Dakota Brand Board.

And Christen says they’ll be monitoring any changes that may be introduced effecting property taxes.