This bill proposes the addition of a new section to chapter 13-8 of South Dakota law, allowing public schools to authorize individuals to serve as school chaplains, either as volunteers or employees. The legislation mandates that each school district's board implement a policy outlining the application process, minimum qualifications for chaplains, and the types of services they may provide. Furthermore, the policy must be transparent, requiring the school district to publish a list of chaplains and their religious affiliations on its website. Importantly, the policy ensures that student participation in chaplain services is voluntary and prohibits chaplains from having any disciplinary or supervisory authority over students.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals seeking to serve as school chaplains must undergo a criminal background check similar to that required for school district employees. It explicitly disqualifies individuals with certain criminal convictions, including those involving moral turpitude, violent crimes, sex offenses, or narcotics trafficking, from serving in this role. These provisions aim to ensure the safety and well-being of students while allowing for the presence of chaplains in public schools.