The bill amends Section 24-5-3 of South Dakota law regarding the discharge of inmates from correctional facilities. It mandates that upon an inmate's discharge—whether through parole, suspended sentence, or final discharge—officials must provide the inmate with suitable clothing, a monetary sum determined by the secretary of corrections, and transportation to a specified location. The transportation options include the county where the inmate resided at the time of the offense, the county where the inmate was sentenced, or a location that is equivalent in distance to either of those counties, whichever is shorter.

This revision aims to ensure that inmates are adequately supported upon their release, facilitating their reintegration into society. The bill emphasizes the importance of providing not only basic necessities but also transportation to a familiar location, which may help reduce recidivism and promote successful transitions for former inmates.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/27/2026: 24-5-3
Senate Judiciary Engrossed, 02/05/2026: 24-5-3
Enrolled, 03/09/2026: 24-5-3