South Dakota2026Active

HB1300

Exempting Victims from Clemency Notice Rules

Last scannedAug 25, 2026, 3:29 AM

In one sentence

This law allows victims of human trafficking or domestic abuse to skip the rule that requires publishing their names in newspapers when they apply for clemency.

Removes the requirement under § 24-14-4 for certain applicants to have personal information published in a newspaper during the clemency process.
Requires applicants to submit an affidavit stating they are victims of human trafficking or domestic abuse and that publishing their info risks their safety.
Mandates two professional affidavits confirming the applicant is a victim and has a good faith belief about safety risks based on work with the individual.
Allows professionals from different agencies but similar fields, such as law enforcement officers, prosecutors, parole agents, mental health providers, licensed health care providers, addiction counselors, or social workers, to provide support letters.
Clarifies that this change does not remove other legal rights victims have regarding notification.

Applicants seeking clemency who are victims of human trafficking or domestic abuse
The Board of Pardons and Paroles, which receives the new affidavits

This exemption only applies to the newspaper publication rule and does not change other victim notification rights.
The bill text does not specify an exact effective date beyond stating it was signed by the Governor in March 2026.

Plain language

Clemency: A government action that reduces a punishment or forgives a crime.
Affidavit: A written statement of facts signed by the person and confirmed as true under oath.
Human trafficking: The illegal trade or exploitation of people for forced labor or commercial sex acts, defined in state law chapter 22-49.

Official record

Source attached

except victims of human trafficking or domestic abuse from certain clemency notice requirements.

Official activity