Notwithstanding the provisions of § 5-18D-25, the Department of Public Safety may purchase used motor vehicles and equipment at auctions of federal and state surplus property, or from public and private utility companies, irrespective of whether or not the sellers of the vehicles are licensed dealers as required by § 5-18D-25, for distribution to fire departments or districts for fire suppression. The department may charge recipients for reasonable direct and indirect costs of providing such rural fire equipment, vehicles, and supplies to counties and rural fire departments or districts. The department may administer federal and state cost assistance programs related to such rural fire protection.
SDCL 34-31-8