Gov. Kristi Noem says a political battle unfolding in Sioux Falls over a pork processing plant location is costing South Dakota’s economy.

But because of the state’s weak sunshine laws, she doesn’t have to prove it.

Smart Growth Sioux Falls formally filed an open records request with the governor’s office Thursday seeking validation of statements made earlier in the week by the Republican governor. Noem alleged a pending ballot measure for Sioux Falls voters that aims to block Wholestone Farms from building within city limits is driving businesses away from South Dakota.