The bill aims to revise and enhance the legal framework surrounding rape offenses in South Dakota, specifically by amending existing statutes and increasing penalties for certain violations. Key amendments include changing the classification of rape in the first degree from a Class C felony to a Class B felony, and establishing that rape in the second degree is now classified as a Class 1 felony. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that mandates a minimum sentence of ten years for adults convicted of engaging in sexual contact with a victim under the age of thirteen, while also allowing for the court to impose alternative sentences if mitigating circumstances are found.

Furthermore, the bill repeals the previous statute that outlined mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses, thereby streamlining the sentencing process. The statute of limitations for charges related to first and second-degree rape is eliminated, allowing such charges to be brought at any time before the victim turns twenty-five or within seven years of the crime, whichever is longer. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen protections for victims and ensure that perpetrators face more severe consequences for their actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/05/2026: 22-22-1, 22-22-1.4, 22-22-7, 22-22-1.2