By: Chad Franzen Posted at: 02/01/2010 09:01 AM
PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - Legislation that would require state agencies to hold a public hearing before purchasing land was rejected Monday in a House committee.
Rep. Tom Deadrick of Platte said his bill would bring transparency to the process.
Three state agencies testified against the bill. The Department of Transportation and the Department of Game, Fish and Parks said they already provide public notice and opportunity for comment.
Corrections Secretary Tim Reisch (Rysch) said the bill would make it nearly impossible for his department to buy land because no one wants a prison for a neighbor.
The House State Affairs Committee deferred the bill to the 41st legislative day, effectively killing it.
