House briefly clears chamber over suspected natural-gas smell, resumes session

The South Dakota House briefly cleared the chamber Wednesday after members reported a smell officials described as a "natural gas of sorts." The presiding officer asked members to remain nearby — in the rotunda and near the House gallery — while staff investigated and returned the body to order within minutes.

The presiding officer told members there was "no reason to panic" and asked them not to leave the immediate area; after staff checked the area the Speaker called the House back to order and the session proceeded.

There were no further public announcements about injuries or property damage on the floor before the House continued with its agenda.