MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Gov. Larry Rhoden’s proposed state budget is drawing criticism from within his own party, including former House Majority Leader Will Mortenson, who said the financial outlook presented by the governor signals a weakening state economy.

Mortenson said the budget reflects what he views as troubling economic conditions.
“I think there’s real cause for concern among South Dakotans,” Mortenson said. “The budget picture that Governor Rhoden painted is frankly bleak. We got less sales tax revenue last year than we did the year before for only the third time in the last 30 years.”

Mortenson also pointed to South Dakota’s decline in national business rankings, noting the state has fallen from No. 1 in 2013 to No. 35 today.

State lawmakers are expected to begin their review of the governor’s budget in the upcoming legislative session.