PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem’s proposal to overhaul the decision-making process for county zoning permits has cleared its first hurdle in the legislature. A Senate committee approved her proposal that would pave the way for feedlots and other projects. The bill would make an array of changes to how county zoning decisions are made, as well as the appeal process. Zoning decisions have produced disputes and lawsuits in recent years over feedlots. The governor argues that it would spur investment in rural communities. Opponents say the proposal takes decisions away from locals who provide checks on the growth of feedlots and other projects that may harm the environment.