PIERRE, S.D. (KELO) -- For years, the South Dakota Supreme Court has released its new opinions each Thursday morning. But the court hasn't issued any since April 16.

KELOLAND News inquired about the seven weeks of silence.

Chief Justice Steven Jensen responded.

"A seven-week gap without issuing an opinion is atypical for the South Dakota Supreme Court," he stated in an email.

"However, the issuance of opinions from the Court each week is always dependent on the timing of the Court terms, the necessary deliberative process for writing and voting on opinions, and the number of cases that have already been released or are under consideration," the chief justice continued.

"I can assure you that the Justices and Court staff are working hard as always to resolve pending cases and provide w

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