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Bill

Bill

SB 11

increase reinstatement fees and abstract driver record fees.

2026 Regular Session

South Dakota bill increases reinstatement and driving record abstract fees to boost state transportation revenue while potentially creating financial obstacles for license-suspended drivers.

Signed by the Governor on 2026-02-17 S.J. 266
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Bill Summary · SB 11

Legislative bill overview

SB 11 increases the fees associated with reinstatement of suspended or revoked driver's licenses and abstract driver records (official copies of driving history) in South Dakota. The bill has already passed the Senate Transportation Committee unanimously and is scheduled for a full Senate hearing.

Why is this important

Driver reinstatement fees and abstract fees directly affect individuals with licensing issues and those needing official driving records for employment, insurance, or legal purposes. Fee increases generate revenue for the state's transportation department but may create financial barriers for lower-income residents seeking to restore driving privileges or obtain records.

Potential points of contention

  • Regressive impact: Fee increases disproportionately burden lower-income individuals who may already struggle financially after license suspension
  • Barrier to employment: Higher reinstatement fees could delay people's ability to return to work or find employment requiring a valid license
  • Lack of transparency: The bill summary doesn't specify the exact fee increases, making it difficult to assess the magnitude of the burden on affected individuals

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

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