South Dakota’s New Laws: A Wave of Change and Citizen Action

With over 200 new laws taking effect on July 1st, 2025, South Dakota is experiencing a significant shift in its legal landscape, prompting both reform – like the elimination of eminent domain for carbon pipelines – and citizen-led efforts to challenge certain provisions.

A Prolific Legislative Session and Governor Rhoden’s Approval

Governor Larry Rhoden recently signed over 200 bills into law, the result of a highly active 2025 legislative session. This influx of new legislation, with 197 bills going into effect on Tuesday, July 1st, reflects a desire among many first-time lawmakers to leave their mark on state government. The sheer volume of new laws underscores a period of significant change and reform within South Dakota. Notably, the legislature successfully eliminated the use of eminent domain for carbon pipeline projects, a victory for landowners and a demonstration of the potential for impactful legislative action.

However, the session wasn’t without its controversies. Lawmakers also passed legislation restricting access to “obscene” material in public libraries, raising concerns about censorship and intellectual freedom. Governor Rhoden’s decision to sign 233 bills without issuing a single veto demonstrates a broad endorsement of the legislature’s actions, while also highlighting the potential for sweeping changes to state policy. The Department of Health is also tasked with creating a video under one of the new laws.

Citizen-Led Efforts to Challenge New Legislation

Despite the governor’s approval, not all new laws are being accepted without challenge. A new law allowing citizens to bring a vote to the people on certain issues – rather than relying solely on a board of five – is currently facing a petition drive in Sioux Falls. Activists are working to circulate petitions to bring an “opt-out” provision to a public vote, demonstrating a commitment to direct democracy and citizen participation. The deadline for submitting these petitions is July 17th.

This grassroots effort highlights the importance of citizen engagement in shaping state policy, particularly in response to laws perceived as undemocratic or detrimental to local control. This pushback mirrors broader trends of increased civic participation and a desire for greater transparency and accountability in government.

Key Takeaways

• Over 200 new laws took effect in South Dakota on July 1st, 2025, following a prolific legislative session.
• Governor Larry Rhoden signed 233 bills into law without issuing any vetoes.
• A significant reform included the elimination of eminent domain for carbon pipeline projects.
• Citizens in Sioux Falls are actively circulating petitions to challenge a new law through a public vote, demonstrating a commitment to direct democracy.
• The new laws, and the subsequent citizen response, reflect a period of significant change and increased civic engagement in South Dakota.