Tribal Land Return Push: All nine federally recognized South Dakota tribes backed draft legislation to return federal lands in the Black Hills to the Great Sioux Nation, aiming to protect sacred sites and clean water while avoiding private-property impacts. Drought & Ranching Pressure: Midwest drought persists, with South Dakota among affected states, keeping crop and grazing risks high and raising the need for timely rains. Air Quality & Construction Dust: Rapid City urged contractors to reduce dust during windy conditions, recommending covered loads, watering, and site stabilization, plus using local air-quality tools to track conditions. Local Development & Housing: Mitchell’s planning commission advanced a tax break plan to stabilize and redevelop a historic Main Street bank building into storefronts plus short-term rentals. Agriculture Health Watch: The New World screwworm threat is back in focus for livestock producers, with guidance on how the pest targets living animals’ wounds. Music Licensing Lawsuit: ASCAP filed infringement suits against four radio groups, including Haugo Broadcasting in South Dakota, alleging repeated unlicensed use of members’ music. Workforce & Skills: Mitchell Tech students earned medals at the national SkillsUSA competition, highlighting strong skilled-trades training. Infrastructure & Growth: Rapid City reported record building permit valuations for early 2026, driven by major commercial projects and steady residential demand. Public Health: FDA approved a new sunscreen active ingredient, bemotrizinol, expanding OTC options for UVA/UVB protection. Milk Prices: USDA data showed May Class III and Class IV milk prices rising, with feed costs still tempering the rebound.