Rep. Kathy Rice

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes changing the South Dakota Constitution to require more voter signatures on petitions for constitutional amendments or ballot measures. It directly affects citizens who wish to initiate legislative proposals through the petition process by increasing the signature threshold. The key mechanism is raising the number of required signatures, making it more difficult to place such measures on the ballot. This change would apply to future elections and alter the current rules for citizen-initiated legislation in the state.

Maddy summaryHB 1181 requires school districts in South Dakota to implement dyslexia screening programs for students. The bill mandates that districts establish procedures to identify students who may have dyslexia and provide appropriate support services. This legislation directly affects public school systems and students in the state by ensuring early detection and intervention for reading disabilities. The measure focuses on creating a systematic approach to screening rather than prescribing specific treatment methods or funding levels.

Maddy summaryThis bill would change how South Dakota courts review decisions made by state agencies when interpreting laws, rules, or policies. Currently, courts often give significant weight to agency interpretations, but this legislation would require courts to independently evaluate whether those interpretations are reasonable rather than deferring to the agency's judgment. The change directly affects state agencies that issue regulatory interpretations and the courts that review those interpretations. By shifting the standard of review, the bill aims to ensure judicial oversight of administrative actions without necessarily overturning specific agency decisions.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs school district boards in South Dakota to create policies restricting the use of cell phones and other electronic devices during instructional time. The measure would require schools to establish clear guidelines on when and how students may use these devices while classes are in session. It aims to give school administrators the authority to limit distractions and maintain focus in the classroom. The policy would apply to all public school districts within the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits law enforcement agencies in South Dakota from using diversity, equity, or inclusion programs. It directly affects police departments and other law enforcement entities within the state by restricting their ability to implement such initiatives. The key provision removes the legal authority for these agencies to establish or maintain diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. This change would prevent agencies from allocating resources or developing policies specifically focused on these areas.

Maddy summaryThis bill would grant legal immunity to off-duty law enforcement officers who make a citizen's arrest or assist with a lawful arrest. The provision aims to protect these officers from civil liability when they act in this capacity. It directly affects law enforcement personnel who are not currently on duty at the time of the arrest. The bill does not change existing arrest laws but instead provides additional legal protection for specific off-duty actions.

Maddy summaryHB 1182 establishes a process for removing a member from a school district board through a recall mechanism. The bill allows voters within the school district to petition for a recall election if they believe a board member should be removed from office. If enough signatures are collected, an election is held where voters decide whether to replace the board member. This provision directly affects school district board members and the voters in those districts by adding a formal removal process.

Maddy summaryHB 1179 clarifies labeling and sales requirements for homemade food items sold in South Dakota. The bill directly affects individuals and businesses that prepare and sell homemade food products to consumers. It establishes specific rules for how these items must be labeled and under what conditions they can be sold legally. The legislation aims to ensure clarity and consistency in food safety standards for homemade goods without changing existing regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires South Dakota schools to display the Ten Commandments alongside other historical documents in classrooms. It mandates that these documents be included in the curriculum to provide context for students studying American history and law. The legislation affects public and private educational institutions within the state by establishing specific display and teaching requirements. This measure aims to ensure students encounter foundational legal and moral texts as part of their education.

Maddy summaryHB 1140 establishes oversight procedures for the governor's use of emergency powers in South Dakota. The bill requires the governor to submit written reports to the legislature detailing the reasons for declaring an emergency and the specific actions taken during the emergency period. It also mandates that emergency declarations include clear expiration dates and outlines the process for legislative review of emergency orders. This legislation directly affects the governor's authority to declare emergencies and impacts state agencies and officials who implement emergency measures. The bill aims to create a structured framework for accountability while maintaining the governor's ability to respond to urgent situations.