Rep. John Hughes

Maddy summaryThis commemorative resolution (HC 8001) formally recognizes National FFA Week in South Dakota for February 21-28, 2026. It does not create new laws or affect any individuals or policies; instead, it serves as a symbolic gesture by the South Dakota Legislature to honor the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization. The resolution cites FFA's role in agricultural education, youth development, and community service across the state. As a non-binding commemoration, it has no legal or financial impact on the state or its residents.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 7001) is a symbolic recognition of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, scheduled for July 4, 2026. It does not create new laws or affect any individuals, organizations, or policies; it is purely commemorative. The resolution acknowledges the historical significance of the Declaration, highlights contributions from diverse groups (including indigenous nations and immigrants) to U.S. development, and encourages reflection on foundational principles like liberty and democracy. South Dakota's House of Representatives formally resolves to celebrate this milestone as a moment to honor the nation's past and future.

Maddy summaryHB 1239 amends South Dakota laws governing restrictions on obscene materials in public libraries and school libraries. The bill modifies existing provisions to clarify how libraries may limit access to certain content while maintaining their role as community resources. It directly affects library administrators, patrons, and educational institutions by updating the legal framework for content restrictions. The legislation focuses on revising specific statutory language rather than introducing new restrictions or expanding existing ones.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits individuals convicted of certain rape offenses from receiving a suspended imposition of sentence in South Dakota. The measure directly affects defendants charged with specific sexual assault crimes by removing a sentencing option that would allow them to avoid jail time. Under the new provisions, judges would no longer be able to suspend the imposition of sentence for these offenses, requiring immediate sentencing instead. This change applies to both new and pending cases involving the specified rape charges.

Maddy summaryHB 1230 amends South Dakota law to impose penalties for the unauthorized distribution of fentanyl, directly affecting individuals who distribute the drug without legal authorization. The bill establishes criminal penalties for those who distribute fentanyl without a prescription or other legal justification, aiming to address the growing opioid crisis. This legislation does not specify exact penalty levels but authorizes the state to enforce stricter consequences for unauthorized fentanyl distribution. The changes apply to all persons distributing fentanyl in violation of state regulations, without distinguishing between different types of distributors.

Maddy summaryHB 1259 prohibits unauthorized access to certain multi-occupancy rooms in South Dakota. The bill directly affects building owners, property managers, and tenants by establishing rules about who may enter shared living spaces. Key provisions require landlords to obtain consent before entering rooms occupied by multiple tenants, ensuring privacy rights are protected. The law aims to prevent unlawful intrusions while allowing necessary access for maintenance or emergencies when proper notice is given. This policy change strengthens tenant protections without altering existing landlord responsibilities for property upkeep.

Maddy summaryHB 1174 modifies South Dakota laws governing the legal rights and responsibilities of fathers of children born to unmarried mothers. The bill updates provisions related to paternity establishment, custody, and support obligations to align with current legal standards. It directly affects unmarried fathers, mothers, and the children involved in these family situations. The legislation aims to clarify existing procedures without changing the fundamental requirement that fathers must establish paternity to gain legal standing.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies how the South Dakota legislature verifies the qualifications of registered voters. It directly affects election officials and voters by changing the procedures used to confirm voter eligibility. The specific mechanisms for verification are not detailed in the provided text, but the bill aims to update existing rules governing voter registration checks. This change ensures the process aligns with current legal standards for voter qualification verification.

Maddy summaryThis bill prevents healthcare providers in South Dakota from blocking parents or guardians from accessing their minor children's medical records and health information. It requires providers to allow authorized adults to view and obtain copies of these records without needing additional consent from the minor. The law applies to doctors, hospitals, and other medical facilities treating minors, ensuring families can review health data related to their children. This change aims to improve family involvement in healthcare decisions for minors by removing barriers to information access.

Maddy summaryHB 1195 modifies the legal process for terminating parental rights in cases where a child has been officially found to be abused or neglected. The bill updates specific provisions within South Dakota's child welfare laws to clarify how and when parental rights may be ended in these situations. This change directly affects child protection agencies, parents, and legal professionals involved in dependency and neglect cases. The revision aims to align the state's procedures with updated standards for protecting children while addressing parental rights.