The bill amends South Dakota law to establish regulations regarding the political activities of public employees and to clarify the definition of public employees. It modifies Section 2-12-8.2 to prohibit certain high-ranking officials and their highest-paid employees from acting as lobbyists for two years following their termination from state government service. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions for "political activity" and "public employee," and outlines specific restrictions on public employees, including prohibitions against using their official authority for political purposes, soliciting contributions while at work, and engaging in political activities while on duty or using state resources.

Furthermore, the bill affirms the rights of public employees to vote and engage in political activities, provided they adhere to the outlined restrictions. It allows public employees to express political opinions, participate in campaigns, and contribute to political parties, among other activities. The bill also repeals Section 2-12-7.1, which previously required certain state employees to register as lobbyists when representing their departments before the Legislature, thereby streamlining the regulations surrounding lobbying and political engagement for public employees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 02/05/2025: 2-12-8.2, 2-12-7.1