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 prison sentences, although courts may suspend portions of sentences, which the Board of Pardons and Paroles will supervise.

Additionally, the bill revises the criteria for setting initial parole dates 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 calculating parole eligibility, and it maintains that inmates must serve at least sixty days before being eligible for parole. The amendments ensure that inmates convicted of serious offenses, particularly those defined in sections 24-15-4.1 and 24-15-4.2, will face stricter parole eligibility requirements, reinforcing the state's commitment to public safety.

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