South Dakota Rural Family Support Act

This Act establishes a voluntary Rural Family Support Program within the Department of Social Services to provide eligible rural families with childcare assistance, referrals and coordination for available parental-leave benefits, and case management for farm and small-business workers. Subject to legislative appropriations, the program shall offer competitive grants or state tax incentives to employers that provide or expand dependable childcare, flexible scheduling, paid family leave, or comparable benefits that help employees remain in their communities. Participation shall be voluntary, benefits shall be administered without regard to political affiliation, and priority may be given to underserved rural areas and families facing demonstrated childcare shortages.