South Dakota 2026 Regular Session

South Dakota House Bill HC8025

Caption

Honoring the accomplishments of University of South Dakota women's basketball player Josie Hill.

Impact

The commemoration serves not only to honor Josie's athletic talents but also her commitment to academic excellence and community service. As an enrolled member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, she has become a visible role model for Indigenous youth, inspiring them to pursue their dreams in academics and athletics. The recognition by the One Hundred First Legislature of the State of South Dakota highlights the importance of representation and the positive impact that successful individuals can have within their communities.

Summary

House Commemoration 8025 is a legislative commemoration recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of Josie Hill, a basketball player from the University of South Dakota. Josie has made a mark in women's basketball, showcasing her skill as a center who excels in scoring, rebounding, and blocking shots. Her achievements include setting career records in blocked shots at Rapid City Central High School and later excelling at Chicago State University where she set multiple records during her college career. Josie's performance has contributed significantly to her current team, the Coyotes, as she helped them secure a solid record in the Summit League.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding House Commemoration 8025 is overwhelmingly positive. Legislators and community members view this acknowledgment as a celebration of Josie's achievements and her role in advocating for Indigenous representation within sports. The commemoration is seen as a way to uplift not only her story but also the stories of other Indigenous individuals striving for excellence.

Contention

Since this bill is a commemoration and not a law, there are no notable points of contention. However, the celebration of Josie's accomplishments does reflect broader issues around the visibility of Indigenous athletes and the cultural significance of their achievements in mainstream sports. The commemoration aligns with ongoing discussions about inclusivity in athletics and the importance of recognizing diverse backgrounds in sports leadership.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD SC802

Honoring Callie Mueller of Florence, South Dakota, on being named Miss Rodeo America 2025.

SD SC808

Honoring Joelle Simpson of Rapid City as Miss South Dakota.

SD HC8007

Honoring Jordan Jensen of Brookings as Miss Rodeo South Dakota 2025.

SD HC8015

Honoring the 2025 South Dakota Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Youth of the Year finalists.

SD SC812

Honoring Terry Ree, for his service to the state of South Dakota as an entertainer through the comedy-musical duo Williams and Ree.

SD HC8013

Honoring the Sioux Falls Lincoln High School Patriots Marching Band senior class for its many accomplishments.

SD SC801

Recognizing and expressing gratitude to South Dakota Wildland Fire and Black Hills volunteer fire departments for their quick response and cooperation on Black Hills wildfires.

SD HC8003

Recognizing Jacqueline Sly as the recipient of the AARP South Dakota Andrus Award.

SD HC8021

Honoring Roncalli Middle School teacher Dan Gallagher, Aberdeen, as the 2024-2025 South Dakota Milken Educator.

SD HC8001

Honoring Donna Leslie of the South Dakota Retailers Association for outstanding service to the business community.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.