Governor Dennis Daugaard signed a bill this morning that adds electronic devices to the state’s wiretapping laws.
More specifically, Daugaard says the bill allows law enforcement to monitor cell phone calls.
“The bills intent was not to intercept emails or intercept text messages. The intent was to tap into audible cell phones.”
Daugaard says the move is part of the state’s attempt to address the methamphetamine epidemic.
Officials say the wiretapping law has not been used in over thirty years. The change in wiretapping laws passed through both houses almost unanimously, with only one vote against it.
Previously, only landline phones were on the books. Daugaard says he wanted the statute updated.
