This bill amends existing South Dakota law regarding the establishment of initial parole dates for inmates convicted of certain offenses. Specifically, it introduces new definitions for "offense" under sections 24-15-4.1 and 24-15-4.2, which include serious crimes such as first and second degree murder, kidnapping, acts of terrorism, and various forms of assault and robbery. Inmates convicted of these offenses for crimes committed on or after July 1, 2023, will not be eligible for parole, except under specific provisions outlined in sections 24-15A-55 to 24-15A-68. The bill also clarifies that inmates must serve their full court-imposed sentences, although courts may suspend portions of sentences, which the Board of Pardons and Paroles will supervise.

Additionally, the bill amends section 24-15A-32 to establish how initial parole dates are calculated for inmates sentenced for crimes committed before and after July 1, 2023. For crimes committed after this date, the bill specifies that certain violent crimes will be considered when determining parole eligibility and initial parole dates. It also emphasizes that inmates with life sentences or those convicted of offenses defined in sections 24-15-4.1 and 24-15-4.2 are not eligible for parole, except as provided in the specified sections. Overall, the bill aims to tighten parole eligibility for serious offenses and ensure that inmates serve significant portions of their sentences.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/10/2025: 24-15-4.1, 24-15-4.2, 24-15A-32
Senate Judiciary Engrossed, 01/28/2025: 24-15-4.1, 24-15-4.2, 24-15A-32
Enrolled, 03/10/2025: 24-15-4.1, 24-15-4.2, 24-15A-32