This bill amends South Dakota's adoption of federal motor carrier regulations by updating the reference year from 2025 to 2026 for specific parts of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. It modifies the applicability of certain regulations to include intrastate operations alongside interstate operations, particularly for drivers and motor carriers operating vehicles that do not exceed a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds and are not used for transporting hazardous materials or more than fifteen passengers. Additionally, it establishes age requirements for drivers based on the type of commerce they are engaged in, with a minimum age of 21 for those involved in interstate commerce or transporting hazardous materials, while allowing other drivers to be as young as 18.

The bill also clarifies the penalties for violations of motor carrier safety requirements and hazardous materials regulations. Violations of the motor carrier safety requirements are classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor, while violations related to hazardous materials regulations are categorized as either Class 1 or Class 2 misdemeanors, depending on the specific nature of the violation. This legislative change aims to enhance safety and compliance within the state's transportation framework.

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