Maddy summarySB 103 states that individuals present at shooting ranges assume all inherent risks that are obvious, including injuries from noise, discharges, equipment malfunctions (not owned by the range), terrain variations, weather conditions, or natural obstacles like rocks or debris. It directly affects anyone visiting public or private shooting ranges, including those operated by law enforcement. The bill defines "shooting range" broadly to cover all facilities using firearms or archery for activities like skeet or trap shooting. This legal assumption of risk limits liability for range operators regarding these specific, inherent dangers.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 1079 revises South Dakota's rules for issuing driver's licenses to people with medical conditions that could affect driving safety. It allows the Department of Public Safety to issue a temporary license to applicants with a physician-diagnosed, medication-controlled condition (like epilepsy or heart issues), provided they confirm ongoing medication use and physician care. This temporary license requires six-month reviews and replaces the previous requirement of a 12-month seizure-free period for those with controlled conditions. The bill directly affects drivers managing treatable health issues that could impair safe operation of a vehicle.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to remove South Dakota's legal requirement to provide expanded Medicaid coverage. It specifically targets Section 10 of Article XXI, which currently mandates that the state provide Medicaid benefits to adults aged 18-65 with incomes at or below 133% of the federal poverty level. If approved by voters, the amendment would eliminate this constitutional obligation, allowing the state to potentially modify or discontinue the expanded eligibility rules. The change directly affects low-income South Dakota adults who currently qualify under the existing Medicaid expansion.
Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (SCR 602) celebrates South Dakota's 42-year sister-state relationship with Taiwan, established in 1984. It highlights specific trade ties, including a 2025 agricultural mission visit and a wheat purchase agreement between South Dakota and Taiwan. The resolution expresses support for strengthening trade relations, academic exchanges, the U.S.-Taiwan tax agreement, and Taiwan's participation in international organizations. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or policies but formally recognizes the partnership.
Maddy summaryThis bill (SC 802) is a ceremonial resolution recognizing the 77th anniversary of Tabor Czech Days, an annual cultural festival in Tabor, South Dakota, scheduled for June 18-20, 2026. It formally honors the event and the Czech immigrant heritage it celebrates, highlighting traditions like music, food, museums, and community activities. The resolution has no legal effect or policy changes - it simply offers official state recognition through the legislature. It directly acknowledges the festival’s cultural significance to South Dakota’s Czech community and its annual events.
Maddy summarySB 105 requires anyone installing radon mitigation systems for compensation to obtain a state license from the South Dakota Department of Health. Applicants must provide proof of national certification, pay an initial fee of up to $500, and be at least 18 years old. To renew a license, installers must complete 7 hours of approved continuing education and maintain current national certification, with renewal fees capped at $250. Installing radon systems without a license is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Maddy summaryHB 1057 prohibits the sale, distribution, and manufacture of any food product containing "cell-cultured protein" in South Dakota from July 2026 through June 2036. The bill defines cell-cultured protein as meat-like products made from animal cells grown outside a live animal, excluding items like fermented foods or pharmaceuticals. Violations are classified as Class 2 misdemeanors, and state inspectors can issue stop-sale orders for noncompliant food businesses. Businesses found violating the law may face license suspension or revocation for food service establishments.
Maddy summarySB 95 requires medical cannabis cardholders (both residents and nonresidents) to show their registry card or card number to law enforcement upon request. This provision applies if an officer asks for identification during a lawful interaction. The bill does not change existing protections for medical cannabis use but adds this identification requirement as a condition to avoid arrest under Chapter 23A-3. It directly affects individuals with valid medical cannabis cards who interact with police. The law amends existing statutes (§ 34-20G-2 and § 34-20G-3) to include this requirement.
Maddy summaryHB 1152 requires South Dakota's Department of Education to apply to the U.S. Department of Education for authority to create a new assessment system. If approved, the state must develop and implement an assessment model that meets specific federal requirements, including measuring student growth in reading and math, aligning with existing academic standards, using science-based literacy practices, and reinforcing foundational math skills. The bill directly affects South Dakota public schools and the Department of Education, mandating consultation with educators and parents during development. This change would replace current state assessment practices with a federally approved system starting January 1, 2026.
Maddy summaryHB 1115 revises South Dakota's law on unauthorized possession of controlled drugs by changing where such charges are filed. The bill amends Section 22-42-5 to state that unauthorized possession charges must now be prosecuted under § 22-42-5.1 instead of the current section. This directly affects individuals found in possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription or authorization. The bill maintains existing felony classifications: possession of Schedule I/II drugs remains a Class 5 felony, while Schedule III/IV possession remains a Class 6 felony. The change primarily modifies the legal citation for prosecution without altering the penalties or scope of the offense.