03/13/2025
Governor Larry Rhoden has officially signed Senate Bill 52 into law, a critical piece of legislation that will allow for the expansion of the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery. This move is designed to address a need for additional space, ensuring that the cemetery can continue to serve veterans and their families for years to come.
It’s important to note that, based on current utilization trends, the need for expanding other burial areas at the cemetery is not anticipated within the next eight to ten years. This makes the expansion of columbarium space the priority, as it directly addresses the issue of space shortages for cremated remains.
The signing of SB 52 is only the first step in the expansion process. The next crucial step will be for the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs to apply for a grant from the National Cemetery Administration.
Governor Rhoden has been a strong advocate for South Dakota’s veterans, and his signing of SB 52 underscores his continued commitment to providing the necessary resources and support to those who have served in the armed forces. By ensuring that the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery has the space it needs to accommodate future burials, Governor Rhoden is helping to guarantee that the state remains a place where veterans are honored and remembered.
“The South Dakota Veterans Cemetery will remain a vital and respected place for veterans to rest, as well as a symbol of the state’s gratitude for their sacrifices,” said Cemetery Director Erin Brown.
