Rep. Heather Baxter

Maddy summaryHB 1208 allows individuals in South Dakota to use a mail forwarding service address or post office box when registering to vote or requesting an absentee ballot. This change directly affects voters who may not have a traditional residential street address, such as those living in transitional housing or using mail services. The bill removes the previous requirement for a physical street address in voter registration applications. By permitting these alternative addresses, the legislation aims to expand access to the voting process while maintaining the ability to verify voter eligibility through other means.

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 summaryHB 1062 amends the laws governing how South Dakota maintains and publishes its statewide voter registration file. The bill directly affects the state's election officials and the public who access voter records. Key provisions likely update procedures for data management, access rules, or publication requirements for voter information. This change aims to clarify or modify existing regulations without altering the fundamental right to vote. The legislation focuses on administrative processes rather than substantive voting policies.

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 1130 establishes specific permissible dates for municipal and school district elections in South Dakota. The bill directly affects local governments and school districts by setting the allowable timeframes when these elections can be held. It requires election officials to schedule votes within the newly defined date ranges rather than allowing flexible timing. This change standardizes election scheduling across the state to ensure consistency in local governance processes.

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 1066 modifies South Dakota's voter registration residency requirements, directly affecting individuals seeking to register to vote in the state. The bill adjusts the time period that applicants must reside in the state before they can register, though the specific duration is not detailed in the provided text. This change aims to update the rules governing who is eligible to participate in the voter registration process. The legislation focuses on procedural adjustments to state election laws without altering the fundamental right to vote.

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 summaryHB 1232 modifies the rules governing how hair salons and booths must operate in South Dakota. The bill updates existing requirements for salon licensing, safety standards, and operational procedures to reflect current industry practices. It also declares an emergency to allow the changes to take effect immediately without waiting for the standard legislative timeline. This legislation directly impacts salon owners, employees, and customers by establishing new compliance standards for salon businesses.