South Dakota Legislative Research Council Seeking Applicants for 2026 Internships

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The South Dakota Legislative Research Council (LRC) has announced that applications are now open for 22 legislative intern positions for the upcoming 2026 Legislative Session. The opportunity is open to all college and university students—from freshmen to graduate students—who are pursuing any major.

The deadline for students to apply for the paid internship is October 17, 2025.

Program Details and Compensation

The 101st South Dakota Legislative Session is scheduled to run from January 13, 2026, to March 30, 2026, which includes a recess from March 13 to March 27.

Interns will receive a salary of $185 for each day worked. The total compensation for the whole session and orientation period amounts to $7,215. In addition to the wage, students may also be eligible to receive college credits for their participation.

Intern Responsibilities and Application Requirements

Interns work directly within the legislative process, gaining practical experience by working closely with legislative leadership and assisting lawmakers and LRC staff. Core duties include assisting during committee hearings, conducting research, monitoring legislation, attending closed-door caucus meetings, and providing support to lawmakers with constituent services and other legislative tasks. Interns are also given opportunities to participate in outside events related to the Legislature.

To complete the application process, students must submit a completed application form and create a free MyLRC+ account first. The required supplemental materials include:

·        An unofficial copy of their college transcript.

·        A one-page writing sample on any topic of their choosing.

·        Two letters of recommendation.

References are required to submit the letters of recommendation directly to the LRC via mail or email on the applicant's behalf as soon as possible.

Contact Information

Students seeking additional information on the legislative internship program are encouraged to visit the official website: https://sdlegislature.gov/Students/Intern.

Inquiries can also be directed to the Intern Coordinator at the Legislative Research Council, 500 East Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501, by email at InternProgram@sdlegislature.gov,  or by calling (605) 773-3251.