Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor, focusing on efforts by Senate Republicans to reduce government regulations. Thune emphasized the need for the government to step aside when it becomes a hindrance rather than a help.

“Mr. President, as I said on the floor yesterday, when I meet with South Dakota business owners, I often tell them to let [me] know: how can we help? – even if that means getting out of the way," Thune stated.

Thune criticized what he described as burdensome regulations imposed by Democrat administrations, particularly under President Biden. He highlighted the use of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal such regulations and noted that ten CRA resolutions have been passed so far, with plans to add four more.

One resolution led by Senator Tim Scott targets a rule set by the Biden administration's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning emissions standards for tire manufacturers. According to Thune, this rule is costly and unnecessary, estimating an annual cost of $13.3 million for manufacturers without providing significant public health benefits.

Another resolution involves Senators Curtis and Lee seeking to overturn a regulation limiting off-road vehicle access in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Thune quoted Senator Curtis expressing hope that this measure will ensure public lands remain accessible.

Senator Cruz has introduced a resolution against a Federal Communications Commission regulation allowing federal subsidies for unregulated Wi-Fi hotspots for schoolchildren outside classrooms and libraries. Thune argued this violates existing laws and endangers children by providing unsupervised internet access.

Lastly, Senator Kennedy's resolution aims to repeal rules adding red tape to bank mergers, which could delay approvals and limit consumer choices.

Thune expressed gratitude towards his colleagues' efforts in lifting these regulations: “I am grateful to all of the senators I’ve mentioned for their efforts to lift burdensome Biden-era regulations – and for … all those who … sponsored earlier CRA measures.”

He concluded with a commitment from Senate Republicans: “And Senate Republicans will continue to work to lift unnecessary government burdens and get government out of the way of American families and American businesses.”