Larry Rhoden on Crime

	Larry Rhoden on Crime

Proud to accept faith-based Prison Seminary Model

The Correctional Rehabilitation Task Force is hard at work. They've already recommended the Prison Seminary Model, and I was proud to accept that recommendation. This faith-based program will restore hope, build character, and strengthen our correctional system from the inside out. The task force has also advanced other recommendations, including tribal-focused rehabilitation opportunities. Thank you to the legislators on that task force--keep up the good work! Source: 2026 State of the State Address to South Dakota legislature , Jan 13, 2026

Fight crime with more officers, not increased penalties

I want to keep South Dakota safe--with low crime and respect for law enforcement. My philosophy is that the best way to fight crime is to hire more officers, not to increase penalties. Increasing penalties just means we have to build even more prisons. I will support the Trump Administration's efforts to secure our border. I want our families to feel safe in their homes. I want our kids to be safe playing outside. That's the South Dakota I grew up in--let's keep it that way. Source: 2025 State of the State Address to South Dakota legislature , Jan 28, 2025

Require mental health evaluations in jails within 21 days

Summary:House Bill 1183: To provide and revise certain provisions regarding mental health procedures in criminal justice.

Analysis by ACLU-SD:One bill worth noting is HB 1183--a bill tackling some of the state's major issues relating to the treatment of mental health in the criminal justice system. This bill made many much-needed changes to the system in South Dakota, including one the ACLU of South Dakota deemed critically important. Previously, South Dakota left people languishing in jails awaiting mental health services. The new law requires mental health competency evaluations to be completed within 21 days of the court's order. This step brings South Dakota closer to creating a truly fair criminal justice system.

Legislative Outcome:Passed House 50-17-3 on Feb/23/17; Passed Senate 32-3-0 on Mar/1/17; Larry Rhoden co-sponsored and voted YES; Signed by Governor Dennis Daugaard on Mar/27/17.

Source: ACLU-SD roundup on South Dakota voting record HB 1183 , Mar 1, 2017

Remove requirement that physicians be present at executions

Larry Rhoden was prime sponsor and voted YES on HB 1160, Physician Presence at Executions. The Bill Passed the Senate, 31 - 3.

Requires the warden to arrange the witnesses for executions to include the attorney general, the trial judge, and a member of the news media.
Removes the requirement that physicians be present at executions and examine the body afterward.
Requires the warden to prepare and sign a death certificate.

Source: South Dakota state legislative voting record HB1160 , Feb 14, 2007

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