The bill amends the definition of "law enforcement officer" in South Dakota law to explicitly include tribal law enforcement officers. This change recognizes the role of tribal officers in the enforcement of criminal and highway traffic laws within the state, as well as their involvement in the prevention, detection, and prosecution of crimes. The new language specifies that tribal officers are considered law enforcement personnel when they assist or aid in these law enforcement activities.

The amendment adds a new subsection (22)(b) to the existing definition, which states that a law enforcement officer can also be "an officer, prosecutor, or employee of an Indian tribe who is assisting or aiding in the enforcement of the criminal or highway traffic laws of the state." This inclusion aims to enhance collaboration between state and tribal law enforcement agencies, thereby improving public safety and law enforcement effectiveness across jurisdictions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 12/26/2025: 22-1-2
House Engrossed, 01/28/2026: 22-1-2
Enrolled, 02/26/2026: 22-1-2