Fact Check: "Noem demands every contract over $100,000 for her personal approval."
What We Know
The claim that South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem requires personal approval for every contract over $100,000 is misleading. Recent legislation, specifically Senate Bill 189, outlines new regulations regarding state contracts, particularly those valued at $100,000 or more for public improvements. This law, effective July 1, 2023, mandates that certain contracts must comply with specific eligibility criteria, particularly concerning associations with prohibited entities from certain countries (e.g., China, Iran, North Korea) (BAN ON State Contracts with PROHIBITED Entities).
However, the law does not stipulate that Governor Noem must personally approve each contract. Instead, it establishes compliance requirements for state agencies and vendors, including the necessity for a certification process to ensure eligibility. The approval process for contracts typically involves various state agencies and procurement management, rather than a singular requirement for the governor's approval.
Analysis
The assertion that Governor Noem demands personal approval for contracts over $100,000 lacks substantial evidence and misrepresents the actual legislative framework governing state contracts. The primary source of this claim seems to stem from a misunderstanding of the implications of Senate Bill 189, which does not assign personal approval authority to the governor but rather outlines compliance requirements for state contracts (Financial Disclosure, kristi noem, governor - MyLRC - South Dakota Legislature).
Furthermore, the sources that discuss the procurement process emphasize the role of procurement management and state agencies in contract approvals, rather than indicating that the governor has taken on a direct approval role for each contract. This indicates that the claim may be based on misinterpretation or exaggeration of the legislative changes rather than factual reporting.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that Governor Kristi Noem demands personal approval for every contract over $100,000 is inaccurate. The recent legislation does not require her personal approval for such contracts; instead, it outlines compliance requirements for state agencies and vendors. The approval process remains within the purview of procurement management and relevant state agencies, not solely the governor.
