South Dakota law currently requires people suspected of having serious diseases like tuberculosis or smallpox to accept medical treatment, with violations being a crime. This bill adds a new "conscience exemption" that allows individuals to refuse treatment for diseases subject to public health emergencies based on their personal beliefs about right and wrong, and prohibits employers and schools from taking disciplinary action against those who exercise this exemption. The bill essentially creates a legal protection for people who reject certain medical treatments on grounds of conscience during declared health emergencies.
House of Representatives Reconsidered Failed, YEAS 35, NAYS 35. H.J. 342
House of Representatives Intent to reconsider H.J. 327
House of Representatives Do Pass Amended Failed, YEAS 34, NAYS 36. H.J. 327
House of Representatives Motion to amend H.J. 325
Health and Human Services Do Pass Amended Passed, YEAS 7, NAYS 6.
Health and Human Services Motion to amend Passed, YEAS 8, NAYS 5.
Health and Human Services Motion to amend
Health and Human Services Scheduled for hearing
First read in House and referred to House Health and Human Services H.J. 197
Prime sponsor · Rep
R
Dist. HD-010
Reconsidered
Do Pass Amended
Health and Human Services — Motion to amend
Health and Human Services — Do Pass Amended