This bill establishes the crime of hazing in South Dakota, categorizing it as a Class 1 misdemeanor for general acts of hazing and a Class 6 felony if such acts result in serious bodily injury to another person. The legislation explicitly states that consent from the victim is not a valid defense against prosecution for hazing. The bill defines hazing as any activity that recklessly endangers the health or safety of another person or causes extreme psychological distress or bodily injury, particularly in the context of initiation or affiliation with organizations associated with educational institutions.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that certain activities are exempt from the definition of hazing, specifically reasonable and customary practices related to interscholastic or intercollegiate athletics, as well as authorized law enforcement or military training. This distinction aims to ensure that legitimate training and competitive practices are not criminalized under the new hazing law.