This bill establishes new regulations to protect electric infrastructure in South Dakota by prohibiting certain individuals and entities from controlling, operating, or owning electric facilities. Specifically, it defines "prohibited persons" as individuals who are not U.S. citizens and are from countries listed in existing law, as well as any prohibited entities. The bill mandates that any electric facility controlled or owned by a prohibited person is subject to forfeiture, and any agreements that grant such individuals control over these facilities will be deemed unenforceable if made after July 1, 2026. Additionally, any prohibited person who acquires an interest in an electric facility must divest that interest within one year.

The bill also outlines the enforcement mechanisms for these regulations, allowing the commission to investigate alleged violations and seek legal action in Hughes County. The commission can appoint a receiver to manage the enforcement process and may subpoena necessary information from prohibited persons or relevant government entities. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the commission or receiver can recover attorney fees and costs associated with enforcement, and it sets a three-year limit for bringing actions related to violations. Importantly, the bill clarifies that the title to an electric facility is not invalidated solely due to the alienage of a former operator or owner.