The bill amends existing provisions related to forensic medical examinations in cases of alleged rape or sexual offenses in South Dakota. It specifies that the county must pay for the costs associated with these examinations, which now include a broader range of services such as physician, hospital, or clinic services, necessary forensic supplies, laboratory testing, and any medications provided during the examination. Additionally, it clarifies that a person convicted of a sexual offense is required to reimburse the county for these costs as part of their sentencing.

Furthermore, the bill allows minors aged sixteen or older to consent to forensic medical examinations without needing parental or guardian consent, although reasonable efforts must be made to notify a guardian unless they are the suspected perpetrator. It also establishes that a physician, hospital, or clinic can provide examinations to protected persons who give informed consent, and outlines the definition of informed consent. A new section is added to define what constitutes a forensic medical examination, including the examination of physical trauma, patient interviews, and evidence collection.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/29/2025: 22-22-26, 22-22-26.1, 22-22-26.3, 22-22-26.4