This bill creates a new exception allowing people sentenced to life imprisonment to become eligible for parole once they reach age 50, but only if they committed their crime before turning 26 years old. Previously, people sentenced to life imprisonment in South Dakota had no path to parole consideration at all (with limited exceptions). The change gives younger offenders a second chance at freedom after serving decades in prison.
Judiciary Deferred to the 41st legislative day Passed, YEAS 9, NAYS 2. H.J. 1
Judiciary Scheduled for hearing
House of Representatives Referred to House Judiciary H.J. 294
First Reading House H.J. 284
Senate Do Pass Amended Passed, YEAS 18, NAYS 17. S.J. 239
Senate Motion to amend S.J. 239
Judiciary Do Pass Passed, YEAS 6, NAYS 0. S.J. 2
Judiciary Scheduled for hearing S.J. 1
First read in Senate and referred to Senate Judiciary S.J. 134
Arthur Rusch
Prime sponsor · Sen.
R
Cosponsors
Judiciary — Deferred to the 41st legislative day
Do Pass Amended
Judiciary — Do Pass