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Bill

HB 1298

prohibit the electronic publication of certain information about a judicial officer or law enforcement officer and provide a penalty therefor.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Amber Arlint and 7 co-sponsors

South Dakota bill restricts online publication of certain personal information about judges and law enforcement officers to protect them from harassment and security threats.

Signed by the Governor on 2026-03-30 H.J. 579
#confidentialinformation #courtsandjudiciary #crimes #lawenforcement #penalty
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Bill Summary · HB 1298

Legislative bill overview

HB 1298 prohibits the electronic publication of certain personal information about judicial officers and law enforcement officers, with penalties for violations. The bill establishes restrictions on what data can be publicly shared online about these officials, presumably including home addresses, phone numbers, or family information that could expose them to harassment or security threats.

Why is this important

Law enforcement and judicial officers face increasing threats and harassment, including doxxing (publishing private information online) that can endanger their families and personal safety. This bill attempts to balance public access to government information with officer safety, though it raises questions about transparency and what constitutes "certain information" that warrants protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Vagueness of "certain information": The bill's language doesn't clearly define which specific data types are prohibited, potentially leading to inconsistent enforcement and disputes over what qualifies for protection
  • First Amendment concerns: Restrictions on electronic publication may conflict with free speech rights, especially if the information is already public record or obtained through legitimate means
  • Scope and selective protection: The bill only protects judicial and law enforcement officers, raising equity questions about why other public servants, judges' families, or other vulnerable groups don't receive similar protections

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

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