The bill amends South Dakota's existing law regarding sexual contact with minors under the age of eighteen. It establishes that a person is guilty of a Class 6 felony if they are at least eighteen years old, at least five years older than the victim, and either in a position of authority or a family member related to the victim. The bill specifies that the individual must knowingly engage in sexual contact or touch certain areas of the victim's body with the intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire, and the victim must be under eighteen and not the person's spouse.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of a "position of authority," which includes various roles such as coach, child care provider, health care provider, and others who interact with the victim. It also stipulates that charges can be brought at any time before the victim turns twenty-five or within seven years from the crime's commission, whichever period is longer. This amendment aims to strengthen protections for minors against sexual exploitation and abuse.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/28/2025: 22-22-7.8
Enrolled, 03/10/2025: 22-22-7.8