Gov. Rhoden Signs Public Safety Bills into Law

Article Body

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 9, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Signs Public Safety Bills into Law

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden signed 11 public safety bills into law, including HB 1084, which protects law enforcement, retired state judges, and federal judges from doxxing and other forms of malicious activity by removing their personal information from the public statewide voter files.

"My number one priority is keeping South Dakotans safe, especially the men and women who serve on the frontlines," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "These bills protect our law enforcement and judges who do so much to keep South Dakota strong, safe, and free. I am proud to sign them into law and continue our commitment to public safety."

You can find a photo of Governor Rhoden signing HB 1084 here. Governor Rhoden announced the original version of HB 1084 in his State of the State Address. You can find that clip here.

Governor Rhoden also signed the following 10 public safety bills into law:

• SB 153prohibits certain restrictions in employment contracts for community services providers;
• HB 1001provides for prescribed burning of state-owned land by a person owning adjoining land and declares an emergency;
• HB 1007amends the definition of law enforcement officer to include tribal law enforcement officers;
• HB 1041authorizes the expansion and renovation of the Sturgis Readiness Center, makes an appropriation therefor, and declares an emergency;
• HB 1046authorizes the Department of Corrections to demolish the Pierre Minimum Center, makes an appropriation therefor, and declares an emergency;
• HB 1062revises a provision related to aggravated assault;
• HB 1126revises a provision related to driving under the influence;
• HB 1162adds certain substances to Schedule I of the controlled substances schedule;
• HB 1169classifies medetomidine as a Schedule III controlled substance and establishes permissible uses; and
• HB 1188limits the liability of law enforcement officers and others when removing a disabled vehicle from a highway, a right of way, or public waters.

Governor Rhoden has signed 116 bills into law and vetoed one this legislative session.

###