A bill pushed by Governor Kristi Noem to repeal, replace and update our state's rioting statutes was approved by state lawmakers.
Tom Hart with the Governor's office says some of the statutes have not been updated for over 150 years and passage of the measure will do three things.
“It will repeal section of SD Code that Federal courts struck down in 2019, it will codify the unsightly crime for the violent few that seek to infringe of others rights while still preserving individuals constitutional rights of free speech and peaceful assembly and third it will update our riot and riot boosting’s civil action to protect everyone and their property, by the narrowest means necessary."
Dick Tiszen Representing the South Dakota Sheriff's Association testified in favor of the bill.
“None of what’s in HB 1117 ever comes into play unless a peaceful protest turns violent."
Opponents say this is a second attempt at riot boosting. Candy Brings Plenty with the ACLU opposed the measure. She tells lawmakers it's a bill designed to suppress peaceful protesters.
“This attempt like the first is an unnecessary effort to legislate peaceful protest in South Dakota. It’s undeniable this bill like the 2019 bill it replaces is sparked by the desire to suppress protest around the XL pipeline.
Lawmakers approved the measure with a 10 to 3 vote, its next stop is the full House of Representatives.