The South Dakota Senate approved two bills that could impact the state’s housing infrastructure fund.

 Lawmakers used a mix of federal and state money to put 200 million dollars in the fund three years ago. 

Half of the money went out as grants. Much of the loan money remains. It can be used to pay for up to one-third of the cost for things like sidewalks and water and sewer lines. 

The first bill would allow loans from the fund for airport projects in major metropolitan areas. The money would be repaid to the housing fund at 2 percent interest. 

Republican State Senator Casey Crabtree of Madison spoke in favor of the bill. 

The second bill would increase the loan amount for housing projects from one-third to one-half of qualifying costs. It would also add site work to the list of allowable uses. Both bills will be heard next by House committees.