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 committee is required to report its findings to both the Senate and House of Representatives.

The bill also enhances the committee's powers regarding discovery procedures. It allows the committee to examine records, summon witnesses, and issue subpoenas for individuals or documents. Furthermore, it permits the committee to take depositions and issue written interrogatories, mirroring civil action discovery processes. The bill empowers the committee to enforce compliance with subpoenas and discovery requests through procedures outlined in chapter 21-34. Additionally, it allows the committee to authorize members or other individuals to conduct investigations and utilize discovery procedures, while ensuring compliance with confidentiality laws. The director of the Legislative Research Council is also authorized 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