This bill amends South Dakota's public records law to enhance transparency regarding the calendars and appointment logs of statewide public officials. Specifically, it modifies the existing statute 1-27-1.5 by replacing the term "correspondence, memoranda, calendars or logs of appointments, working papers, and records of telephone calls" with "a public official or employee's correspondence, personal records or documents, notes, records of phone calls, calendar, and appointment log." Additionally, it introduces a new provision stating that the exemption for calendars and appointment logs will not apply to those created on or after July 1, 2025, for individuals holding statewide office.

The bill aims to ensure that the public has access to the scheduling and appointment details of statewide officials, thereby promoting accountability and transparency in government operations. By specifying that these records will be publicly available after the designated date, the legislation seeks to balance the need for privacy in certain communications with the public's right to know about the activities of their elected officials.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 12/27/2024: 1-27-1.5
Senate State Affairs Engrossed, 01/23/2025: 1-27-1.5