This bill amends existing statutes related to the Government Operations and Audit Committee in South Dakota, specifically sections 2-6-2 and 2-6-4. The amendments clarify the committee's composition, which consists of ten members—five from the Senate and five from the House of Representatives, with specific requirements for membership on the Judiciary Committee. The committee is tasked with reviewing the operations and fiscal affairs of state departments, institutions, and agencies, as well as investigating findings of abuse or neglect in juvenile corrections facilities. Additionally, the bill mandates that the committee submit detailed reports to both houses of the Legislature and the appropriation committee.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the committee's powers regarding discovery procedures. It allows the committee to examine records, summon witnesses, and issue subpoenas for individuals or documents. The committee is also empowered to take depositions and issue written interrogatories, mirroring civil action discovery processes. To enforce compliance with subpoenas or discovery requests, the committee can utilize procedures outlined in chapter 21-34. The bill also permits the committee to authorize members or individuals to conduct investigations and utilize discovery procedures, ensuring adherence to confidentiality laws. Lastly, it allows the director of the Legislative Research Council to allocate funds from the legislative priority fund to support these 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