A pair of government accountability bills are among the host of new laws set to take effect in South Dakota on July 1.

One bill establishes requirements state employees need to follow when reporting crimes or financial misconduct by another state employee. The other establishes protections for state employees who act as whistleblowers for improper governmental conduct.

 “Government accountability is essential to keeping South Dakota strong, safe, and free,” said Gov. Larry Rhoden, who signed the bills into law after they were approved by the Legislature. “It takes collaboration between all branches of state government to ensure that our state promotes integrity and is responsible with taxpayer dollars.”

Both bills were introduced by Attorney General Marty Jackley in response to a recent wave of financial crimes involving state employees.

“This legislation will better protect taxpayers and hold government accountable,” Jackley said. “Thank you to the legislators, Gov. Rhoden, State Auditor Sattgast, and State Treasurer Haeder for supporting these bills.”