The bill amends South Dakota law regarding the revocation of driving privileges for individuals convicted of specific offenses while in a vehicle, specifically those outlined in statutes 22-42-5 through 22-42A-4. For a first conviction, the court will revoke the driver's license for ninety days, while a second or subsequent conviction will result in a revocation for one year or until the individual turns seventeen, whichever is longer. The bill also allows the court to issue an order permitting individuals to operate a vehicle for essential purposes such as employment, child care, health appointments, and attendance at school or court, provided they can prove financial responsibility.

Additionally, the bill amends the process for suspending driving privileges under section 32-35-121, requiring that any restrictions on driving privileges only allow operation of a vehicle for the same essential purposes as mentioned earlier. Individuals must establish financial responsibility before being permitted to drive and must maintain this responsibility throughout the suspension period. The amendments aim to clarify the conditions under which certain offenders may operate a vehicle while ensuring accountability through financial responsibility.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 12/26/2025: 32-12-52.3, 32-35-122
Enrolled, 02/23/2026: 32-12-52.3, 32-35-122