Noem reacts to criticism from South Dakota Medical Association (Audio)

March 27, 2020
Mike Tanner

PIERRE, S.D.—Governor Kristi Noem says the COVID-19 pandemic has had a crushing blow on South Dakota’ s economy, and she’s reacting to that by making some bold moves of her own.

During a conference call Friday afternoon, the governor said money included in budget bills that were passed by this year’s Legislature won’t be spent until AFTER a special session is held, likely in June. She says by then, she and lawmakers will have a better idea how deep the budget hole is as a result of business closings across the state due to the pandemic….

Most lawmakers won’t be at the capitol in Pierre on Monday for the final day of the session. The bulk of the work will be done by teleconference.

For those who do show up at the Capitol, Noem explained what they can expect…

The South Dakota Medical Association has been critical of the governor, saying she hasn’t been doing enough to stop the spread of COVID-19. The governor has only made “recommendations” on non-essential business closures. The Association would prefer that they be mandated. Noem is standing by the decisions she’s made…..

As for COVID-19 numbers, Noem says there have been 58 positive cases in South Dakota, after starting the week with 28. KWAT News Director Mike Tanner asked how the governor sees those numbers tracking…