Every year, NAIFA members travel to Washington, D.C., for one of the most important events of the year - the Congressional Conference. They show up personally to advocate for the clients, communities, and small businesses they serve every day.

The 2026 nomination period for many of NAIFA’s national awards is officially underway, with applications being accepted through June 30.

These awards honor professionals who demonstrate excellence in leadership, advocacy, service, education, and professional achievement. Opportunities for recognition span a wide range of categories, including practice specialties, years of industry service, and volunteer leadership within NAIFA.

The awards differentiate NAIFA members with national recognition that not only highlights individual accomplishments but also showcases the strength, professionalism, and influence of NAIFA-South Dakota members across our industry.

We encourage you to nominate yourself or a deserving colleague and help us celebrate the outstanding work being done throughout NAIFA-South Dakota!

To view the full list of awards and application links, visit theNAIFA Awards Page.

NAIFA–South Dakota honors the life and legacy of Sandra “Sandy” Kost, a loyal member, educator, and advocate for the insurance and financial services profession, who passed away on April 26, 2026.

Sandy was more than a member—she was a builder of people. Through her work as the founder of 1st Dakota Insurance School, she played a pivotal role in shaping generations of agents and advisors across South Dakota. Her commitment to education elevated professional standards and helped countless individuals enter and grow within the industry. Many who serve clients across our state today do so on a foundation Sandy helped create.

May 8, 2026

11:30 AM CT

May 13, 2026

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM MT
12:00 PM Lunch

Ben Ready, Southeast Regional Director, Senator John ThuNE

May 21, 2026

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM CT

Policy & Perspectives: A Conversation with Ben Ready from Senator Thune's Office

Ben Ready, Southeast Regional Director, Senator John Thune

May 21, 2026

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM CT

May 13, 2026

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM MT
12:00 PM Lunch

Highlights of the Week

• The main run of the 2026 Session is now over, with both the House and Senate adjourning around 2:15 on March 12th.
• A significant tax bill was passed this week. The goal of SB 245 is to provide property tax relief to homeowners.
• We had a very successful legislative session. Thank you for all your grassroots efforts. They were effective.
• Veto Day is scheduled for Monday, March 30th.

Click here for Darla's Detailed Report.

The following are bills we are tracking:

Living in the Midwest, we’ve gotta be ready for all of the dozen or so seasons we experience in a calendar year, including but not limited to: 2nd winter, fake spring, mud-season, false summer; you live here, you know what we’re talking about!!

To help you look sharp, no matter what Mother Nature has in store, check out the newly launched NAIFA Store. It’s loaded with shirts, jackets, headgear, accessories, and drinkware to sport your NAIFA pride on clothing brands you know, trust, and love.

Differentiate yourself and show your NAIFA pride while traveling to NAIFA’s Congressional Conference in DC, attending a local watch party or lunch meeting, or while meeting with your clients. You’re bound to find a look that fits your style!

Check out the brand new NAIFA Storeand see if something catches your eye!