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HB1175

HB1175: Background Checks for Tribal Positions

Last scannedAug 25, 2026, 3:29 AM

In one sentence

This law allows the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation to run national background checks on people in specific tribal roles when an Indian tribe requests them.

What it does

  • Allows the Division of Criminal Investigation to get criminal history records if an Indian tribe asks for them.
  • Lists ten types of tribal jobs that can be checked, including council members, judges, and conservation officers.
  • Requires tribes or applicants to send fingerprint cards to start a national record check.
  • States that the tribe or the person applying must pay all fees charged by state or federal agencies.

Who it affects

  • Indian tribes in South Dakota
  • People seeking jobs on tribal councils, courts, boards, or commissions
  • Tribal conservation officers and gaming licensees without other screening options
  • The Division of Criminal Investigation

Limits and unknowns

  • This check only happens if an Indian tribe specifically requests it.
  • Some roles, like child protection workers and foster parents, are checked only if records cannot be found through the Bureau of Indian Affairs or other federal acts first.
  • The law does not specify when this bill officially takes effect.

Plain language

Terms to know

Division of Criminal Investigation
A state agency that helps law enforcement by checking criminal records.
National Indian Gaming Commission
The federal group mentioned as a source for gaming background checks when available.

Official record

Sources

Source attached

Official summary

revise provisions related to Division of Criminal Investigation cooperation with Indian tribes.

Official activity

Bill history

  1. Signed by the Governor