The proposed bill aims to enhance the treatment court system in South Dakota by providing opportunities for treatment courts and establishing a workgroup to study rehabilitation programs. It amends existing laws to broaden the definition of treatment courts to include not only drug courts but also driving under the influence, veteran, and mental health courts, thereby increasing offender accountability and reducing recidivism. The bill also grants the state's attorney or deputy state's attorney the authority to determine eligible offenders for participation in treatment court programs and mandates the involvement of various stakeholders, including public defenders, law enforcement, and treatment providers, in the treatment court process.

Additionally, the bill establishes a task force within the Unified Judicial System to evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs, including pretrial services and probation. The task force will consist of members appointed by the Chief Justice, the Governor, and legislative leaders, as well as representatives from law enforcement and the attorney general's office. Its responsibilities include identifying service delivery methods, recommending improvements, suggesting statutory changes, and assessing resource needs. The findings of the task force are to be presented to the Governor and Legislature by December 1, 2025, and the bill declares an emergency for its immediate implementation.

Statutes affected:
Senate Engrossed, 03/11/2025: 16-22-3, 16-22-4