Governor Dennis Daugaard moved his desk to the Capitol rotunda for the ceremonial signing of SB70, a measure that makes major changes to criminal justice procedures. The bill passed both chambers of the legislature by wide votes. The bill would allow states’ attorneys and judges more discretion in using alternative punishments for non-violent offenders. The Governor said the goal is to reduce the number of people going to prison while maintaining public safety…
Daugaard said violent offenders will still end up behind bars…
Daugaard said the state will look at alternative examples that work in other states…
South Dakota Supreme Court Chief Justice David Gilbertson said society has to help those that are sent to jail for drug and alcohol violations…