Group speaks out against Noem DHS appointment

Department of Human Services a 'mess,' should be handled by someone with experience, group claims

PIERRE, S.D. — A group of South Dakota social service leaders is speaking out against Gov. Kristi Noem’s appointment of a top aide to a key role at the state’s Department of Human Services, saying she lacks the experience necessary to lead the troubled agency.

In a letter to Noem, the group — which includes representatives from organizations such as the South Dakota Child Care Association, the South Dakota Council of Child Care Providers, the South Dakota Developmental Disabilities Council and the South Dakota Network Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault — said they were “deeply concerned” about the appointment of Laurie Gill as secretary of DHS.

Gill lacks necessary expertise, group says

Gill, who has served as Noem’s chief of staff since 2019, has no experience in social work or human services, the group noted. They said they were concerned that she would not be able to effectively lead the agency, which is responsible for providing a wide range of services, including child care, foster care, and disability services.

DHS is a 'mess,' group says

The group also said that DHS is currently a “mess,” and that it needs a leader with experience to turn it around. They pointed to a recent report by the state auditor’s office that found that DHS had failed to properly track and manage its spending, and that it had been slow to respond to allegations of abuse and neglect.

“We believe that the Department of Human Services is in need of a leader with a deep understanding of the complex issues facing South Dakota’s most vulnerable citizens,” the group wrote. “We urge you to reconsider your appointment of Ms. Gill and to instead appoint someone with the necessary experience and expertise to lead this critical agency.”

Noem defends Gill, says she is 'the right person for the job'

In a statement, Noem defended her appointment of Gill. She said that Gill is a “proven leader” who has the “skills and experience” necessary to lead DHS.

“Laurie Gill has spent her career serving the people of South Dakota,” Noem said. “She is a compassionate and dedicated leader, and I am confident that she will do a great job leading the Department of Human Services.”

Group remains concerned

The group said they were not convinced by Noem’s defense of Gill, and they reiterated their concerns about her lack of experience.

“We remain concerned about the governor’s appointment of Ms. Gill as secretary of DHS,” the group said. “We believe that this appointment is a mistake, and we urge the governor to reconsider.”