This bill amends South Dakota's adoption of federal motor carrier regulations by revising Section 49-28A-3. It adopts specific parts of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, including subparts F and G of part 107, and parts 171 to 180, as well as parts 387 and 390 to 397, with modifications effective through January 1, 2026. Notably, the bill stipulates that references to interstate operations must also encompass intrastate operations, with certain exemptions for vehicles and drivers that do not meet specified weight and passenger criteria. Additionally, it establishes age requirements for drivers, mandating that those engaged in interstate commerce or transporting hazardous materials must be at least twenty-one years old, while all other drivers must be at least eighteen.

The bill also outlines penalties for violations of motor carrier safety requirements and hazardous materials regulations. Violations related to driver qualifications, vehicle operation, and safety requirements are classified as Class 2 misdemeanors, while more serious violations concerning hazardous materials packaging and transportation are classified as Class 1 misdemeanors. This legislative change aims to enhance safety and compliance within the state's motor carrier operations by aligning state regulations more closely with federal standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 12/19/2025: 49-28A-3
Senate Transportation Engrossed, 01/16/2026: 49-28A-3
Enrolled, 02/09/2026: 49-28A-3