The bill amends South Dakota's open records law, specifically section 1-27-1.5, to clarify and update the categories of records that are exempt from public disclosure. Key changes include the insertion of specific language regarding the protection of personal information related to students, medical records, trade secrets, and law enforcement records. The bill also introduces new provisions that protect information related to archaeological, historical, or paleontological sites, as well as security-related records of the South Dakota Commission on Gaming. Additionally, it emphasizes the confidentiality of records that could endanger personal safety or reveal sensitive personal information.

Furthermore, the bill outlines various categories of records that remain confidential, such as employment applications for executive positions, social security numbers, and emergency response plans. It also specifies that certain records, if disclosed, could constitute an unreasonable release of personal information or endanger individuals' safety. The amendments aim to enhance the protection of sensitive information while ensuring that public interest is considered in the disclosure of records. Overall, the bill seeks to balance transparency with the need for confidentiality in specific circumstances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/18/2026: 1-27-1.5