FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 23, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Signs Public Safety Bills into Law

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden signed seven public safety bills into law, including HB 1298, which prevents the doxxing of law enforcement and judicial officers.

“South Dakota is strong, safe, and free because of the law enforcement and judicial officers who work hard to protect our people,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “This legislation strengthens those efforts – supporting law enforcement, protecting South Dakotans, and reinforcing our commitment to public safety.”

Governor Rhoden announced the original version of HB 1298 in his State of the State Address. You can find that clip here.

Governor Rhoden also signed the following six bills:

• SB 49 safeguards the integrity, privacy, and security of genetic data and provides a civil penalty therefor;
• SB 69 makes an appropriation for the purchase of a new Division of Highway Patrol airplane and mission equipment and declares an emergency;
• SB 107 adds licensed and registered child care programs to the definition of community safety zone;
• SB 136 makes an appropriation for grants to support the purchase of personal protective equipment by volunteer fire departments and declares an emergency;
• HB 1175 revises provisions related to Division of Criminal Investigation cooperation with Indian tribes; and
• HB 1300 excepts victims of human trafficking or domestic abuse from certain clemency notice requirements.

Governor Rhoden has signed 204 bills into law and vetoed one this legislative session.

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