This bill amends sections 2-6-2 and 2-6-4 of the South Dakota legislative code to clarify the powers and procedures of the Government Operations and Audit Committee. The committee, consisting of ten members appointed from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, is tasked with reviewing the operations and fiscal affairs of state departments, institutions, and agencies. It is also responsible for investigating findings of abuse or neglect in juvenile corrections facilities and studying the state's correctional system. The bill specifies that the Legislative Research Council will provide assistance to the committee as needed.

Additionally, the bill enhances the committee's authority regarding discovery procedures. It allows the committee to examine records, summon witnesses, and issue subpoenas for individuals or documents. The committee can also take depositions and issue written interrogatories, mirroring civil action discovery processes. Furthermore, it grants the committee the ability to authorize members or other individuals to conduct investigations and utilize discovery procedures, while ensuring compliance with confidentiality laws. The bill also permits the committee to authorize expenditures from the legislative priority fund to support its activities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/30/2025: 2-6-4
Senate State Affairs Engrossed, 02/10/2025: 2-6-4
Senate Engrossed, 02/13/2025: 2-6-2, 2-6-4
House State Affairs Engrossed, 02/27/2025: 2-6-2, 2-6-4
Enrolled, 03/10/2025: 2-6-2, 2-6-4