South Dakota lawmakers last week upheld Gov. Michael Rounds’ veto of a bill that would have required the state education department to set up programs to promote the education of children who are deaf or have impaired hearing.
The Senate voted 30-4 to override the veto. But the measure failed on a 33-34 vote in the House, falling far short of the two-thirds majority, or 47 votes, needed to pass a bill over a governor’s objections.
Supporters said the measure would have helped make sure children with hearing problems get the help they need in South Dakota’s school districts.
In his veto message, the Republican governor said some of the bill’s requirements already are included in federal law. Other provisions would be difficult for districts to accomplish, he said.
Gov. Rounds also said the South Dakota Constitution gives the state board of regents responsibility for many aspects of educating children with impaired hearing. The bill would have placed additional requirements on the education department, which does not have the necessary money or staff, he said.
