South Dakota Committee Approves 10% Cut to TANF Benefits

(Pierre, SD) — South Dakota’s Interim Rules Review Committee votes four to two to cut TANF benefits by 10 percent, aiming to save the state one-point-five million dollars a year. The Department of Social Services plans to increase cuts up to the federal funding limit of 35 percent. But some lawmakers like Democratic Representative Erik Muckey call the move shameful, and say it wasn’t properly discussed during the legislative session. Supporters argue the cuts are needed to responsibly manage federal funds and avoid using one-time money long-term. The debate highlights tensions over how best to support families facing poverty while balancing the state budget.