David Lust has announced he is a candidate for re-election to the South Dakota House of Representatives from District 34, which includes most of the western half of Rapid City.

Lust just completed his first term in the Legislature.

Lust will face Democrats Bonny Petersen and Lisa F. Cook and fellow Republican Ed McLaughlin. The four will vie for two House of Representative positions from District 34.

"I have very much enjoyed my time in the Legislature and feel that I have held true to my commitment to work on issues that are important to the residents of District 34 as well as the State of South Dakota," he said.

Lust said the common theme of bills he has championed is economic development.

"I have worked extensively on revising corporate and commercial statutes to make South Dakota a more attractive and efficient place to do business," he said.

A business attorney with Gunderson, Palmer, Nelson & Ashmore, Lust has served on the House judiciary and taxation committees as well as the Legislative Rules Review Committee. Last year, he was appointed to the Uniform Laws Commission, a national organization that researches and drafts legislation that encourages commerce between the states. In addition, Lust was appointed to a national task force to review corporate formations and the use of shell entities to launder money for terrorism and drug trafficking.

Lust said he firmly believes that education is a critical component of economic development.

"Our education system forms the foundation on which our economy is built," he said. "During my first term, the Legislature appropriated in excess of $30 million dollars above what is required by state law. From funding to curriculum, it is imperative that our schools continue to be effective, efficient and innovative."

In addition to his service in the Legislature, Lust also currently serves on the executive board of the Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce and the statewide Board of Directors for Junior Achievement.

Lust and his wife, Rebecca, have four children.