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Bill

SB 107

add licensed and registered child care programs to the definition of community safety zone.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bobbi Andera and 13 co-sponsors

South Dakota law now classifies licensed childcare programs as community safety zones, triggering enhanced criminal penalties for offenses committed within those facilities.

Delivered to the Governor on 2026-03-11 S.J. 520
#childcare #crimes #sexoffenses
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Bill Summary · SB 107

Legislative bill overview

SB 107 expands South Dakota's "community safety zone" definition to include licensed and registered child care programs. Community safety zones typically carry enhanced legal protections and penalties for certain crimes committed within their boundaries. This change extends those protections to childcare facilities alongside existing zones like schools and playgrounds.

Why is this important

Child care facilities house vulnerable populations during formative years, making them potential targets for crimes like assault, trafficking, or drug distribution. By adding them to community safety zones, the state creates stronger legal deterrents through enhanced penalties, potentially reducing criminal activity in and around childcare settings. The overwhelming legislative support (65-2 in House) suggests broad consensus on child safety priorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: "Licensed and registered" childcare programs may exclude unlicensed home-based providers, creating uneven protection across childcare settings
  • Penalty scope: Unclear whether enhanced penalties apply only to crimes against children or all crimes within the zone, potentially affecting workers and visitors disproportionately
  • Enforcement burden: Law enforcement must monitor additional facilities; compliance costs for childcare operators may increase if zone requirements involve facility modifications or reporting

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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