Rep. Mellissa Heermann

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to apply to the United States Congress under Article V of the Constitution to call for a constitutional convention aimed at establishing term limits for members of Congress. The measure would direct the state legislature to formally request this convention, which is one of the methods specified in the Constitution for proposing amendments. If enacted, the bill would initiate a process to gather signatures and submit a formal application to the federal government, setting the stage for a national debate on congressional term limits. The bill does not itself create term limits but seeks to trigger a constitutional process that could lead to such changes if approved by the required number of states.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows courts in South Dakota to order family therapy or reunification therapy when deciding custody or visitation disputes involving children. The legislation gives judges the authority to require parents or guardians to participate in therapeutic sessions aimed at improving family relationships and resolving conflicts. Directly affected parties include parents, guardians, and children involved in custody cases where family dynamics are a central issue. The key provision enables courts to mandate these therapy services as part of their decisions, rather than leaving such interventions entirely to voluntary participation. This change provides an additional tool for judges to address family conflict while making custody determinations.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows local government bodies in South Dakota to change how municipally owned parkland is used through local ordinances. It directly affects municipalities that currently own parkland and wish to modify its designated purpose. The key provision grants local authorities the legal authority to create rules that alter the use of public park spaces without requiring state-level approval. This change enables communities to adapt parkland usage to meet evolving local needs and priorities.

Maddy summaryHB 1069 establishes regulations for vapor products in South Dakota, directly affecting businesses that sell or distribute these items and individuals who use them. The bill requires vendors to maintain specific records and implement age verification procedures when selling vapor products to consumers. It also sets penalties for violations, including fines for those who fail to comply with the new regulatory requirements. This legislation aims to create a structured framework for vapor product oversight within the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the Estelline-Hendricks Redhawks women's gymnastics team as the 2025 Class A state champions. It serves as a formal recognition of their athletic achievement without altering any laws or policies. The measure is a commemorative resolution that honors the team's accomplishment through official state acknowledgment.

Maddy summaryHB 1056 prohibits the preparation, sale, and distribution of certain kratom products in South Dakota. The bill directly affects businesses and individuals involved in the kratom market by making these activities illegal. It establishes penalties for violations of the new restrictions. The legislation aims to regulate access to kratom by banning its commercial availability.

Maddy summaryThis bill would recognize the finalists for the 2025 South Dakota Boys & Girls Clubs of America's Youth of the Year award. It directs the state to honor these young individuals, likely through a formal ceremony or public acknowledgment. The measure directly affects the Boys & Girls Clubs organization and the nominated youth participants. It does not allocate new funding or create new legal obligations, but rather serves as a commemorative recognition.

Maddy summaryThis bill honors Pete Bolzer, Chief of the Brookings Fire Department, and congratulates him on his retirement. It is a commemorative resolution that does not create new laws or change existing policies. The measure serves to recognize Bolzer's service and achievements in his role leading the fire department.

Maddy summaryThis bill honors Hannah Heiman of Clark and David Yusten Jr. of Sioux Falls for their roles as governors of the Girls State and Boys State programs in South Dakota. It also recognizes the South Dakota American Legion and Auxiliary for sponsoring and coordinating these programs. The legislation serves as a formal acknowledgment of their contributions to youth civic education and does not alter any existing laws or policies.

Maddy summarySB 74 requires the South Dakota government to publish and review an explanation of the state's open meeting laws. This bill directly affects state agencies and officials who must ensure public transparency in their meetings. The key provision mandates that a clear explanation of these laws be made available for public review. This change aims to improve public understanding of how open meeting laws operate in the state.