The bill amends South Dakota law regarding the eligibility criteria for individuals who can sign an affidavit of homelessness to obtain a free copy of a birth certificate. It specifies that the department must provide a certified copy of an individual's South Dakota birth certificate, limited to one per application, upon proof of homelessness. The bill clarifies that the individual experiencing homelessness, as well as their spouse, child, parent, guardian, next of kin, or authorized representative, may apply for this certificate.

Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for the affidavit that serves as proof of homelessness, stating it must be signed by both the individual and a homeless services provider knowledgeable about the individual's housing status. The definition of "homeless services provider" is expanded to include various entities such as government or nonprofit agencies, human services agencies, law enforcement officers, school liaisons, school counselors, school nurses, and licensed social workers. This broadens the scope of who can assist in verifying an individual's homelessness, thereby facilitating access to vital documents for those in need.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/17/2025: 34-25-52.7