make an appropriation to reimburse health care professionals who have complied with the requirements for rural recruitment assistance programs, and to declare an emergency.

Reimbursements funded for rural health professionals

The law funds two rural recruitment reimbursement programs through South Dakota’s general fund and Department of Health. It provides $978,294 for four family physicians, two physician assistants, and six nurse practitioners who meet SDCL 34-12G-3 requirements. It also provides $370,000 for health care professionals who meet SDCL 34-12G-12 requirements. The department decides who qualifies; this law does not set each person’s payment. The Health Secretary approves payment vouchers, and the state auditor issues payments. Money not lawfully spent or committed returns under state procedures in SDCL chapter 4-8. The emergency clause made the law effective upon passage and approval.