Safer Communities and South Dakota Connections

BIG Update

The overflow of illicit substances into our country has made our communities less safe and strained public resources. This influx of dangerous drugs was exacerbated by a previously unsecured southern border and the continued flow of fentanyl from China. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, 42% of pills tested for fentanyl contained at least 2mg of the substance, which is considered a potentially lethal dose. Today, fentanyl is tragically the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45.

Fentanyl has devastated communities across America which is why I’ve been a leader in Congress to secure our border and stop Chinese fentanyl from reaching our communities. I supported the HALT Fentanyl Act and the Stop Chinese Fentanyl Act, which passed the House, because protecting our kids and communities is a top priority. These bills would permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I narcotics and hold Chinese officials accountable for their failure to act against the production and trafficking of these deadly chemicals.

BIG Idea

I met with leaders in the Black Hills tourism industry about the impact visitors have on our state. We talked about the importance of a strong workforce and the benefits of national parks. The Black Hills attract visitors from around the world who want to see the beauty of our state, and I was glad to hear about the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota’s efforts to further showcase South Dakota. 

Fireworks at Mount Rushmore is an event that demonstrates South Dakota’s commitment to American values on a national stage. The ticket lottery to view the fireworks in person recently opened. If you’re interested in attending, enter your name today! I invited President Trump and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to join in the celebration of America 250 with fireworks or a similar celebratory display.

BIG News

I helped secure $65 million in federal funding for the Platte-Winner bridge along Highway 44. This project is vital not only to Gregory and Charles Mix Counties, but keeps the entire region connected. This is huge news for South Dakota and a great investment in South Dakota’s infrastructure. I’m grateful the Trump Administration awarded our state this funding.

Click here  to read about the project.