South Dakota Lawmakers Prioritize Property Tax Relief Over Prison Rehabilitation Programs
SIOUX FALLS — South Dakota lawmakers concluded their 2026 legislative session earlier this month with a focus on property tax relief, leading to a shift in priorities away from inmate rehabilitation programs. While improving rehabilitation and reducing recidivism were key concerns during discussions surrounding the construction of new prisons, few bills addressing these needs were brought forward this session.
Inmate Release Bill Signed into Law
One bill passed and signed into law by Gov. Larry Rhoden (KOTA TV) aims to ease the transition for individuals released from prison. The law requires the Department of Corrections to transport released individuals to their home county, the county where they were sentenced, or a location equidistant from both. (South Dakota Searchlight)
Funding for Rehabilitation Programs Fails to Pass
A bill that would have allocated $2.7 million to expand existing rehabilitation programs within the state’s prison system did not pass during the session. (South Dakota Searchlight) Representative Brian Mulder, a Sioux Falls Republican, noted that the state’s prison population is straining resources. (South Dakota Searchlight)
Recidivism Rates Remain High
According to the Department of Corrections’ 2025 annual report, half of the individuals released from South Dakota prisons return within three years – the highest recidivism rate in at least eight years. Lawmakers and advocates have pointed to a lack of rehabilitation programming as a contributing factor. (South Dakota Searchlight)
Property Tax Relief Takes Priority
Mulder explained that the focus on property tax relief overshadowed efforts to strengthen rehabilitation programs. This resulted in “another year lost” as the state moves forward with the construction of a new men’s prison in Sioux Falls and nears completion of the Rapid City Women’s Prison. (South Dakota Searchlight)
“When we’re not releasing individuals to the best of their potential from our prison, it just puts a strain on our community ” Mulder stated. “It’s just spinning our wheels, costing us more and more dollars.” (South Dakota Searchlight)
Correctional Rehabilitation Task Force to Continue Discussions
Discussions on rehabilitation will continue through the state Correctional Rehabilitation Task Force, formed by Gov. Larry Rhoden last year. (South Dakota Searchlight) The task force focuses on behavioral health, educational, faith-based, and Native American-themed programs. Its next meeting is scheduled for April. (South Dakota Searchlight)
Focus on Post-Release Services
Lt. Gov. Tony Venhuizen anticipates that rehabilitation and recidivism legislation will be a “major topic” in the next legislative session, as the task force provides recommendations. He emphasized the importance of ensuring post-release services are available statewide, not just in Sioux Falls and Rapid City. (South Dakota Searchlight)
Preventative Measures and Diversion Programs
House Minority Leader Erin Healy, D-Sioux Falls, believes the task force and ongoing conversation about rehabilitation are progressive steps. She highlighted the necessitate for improved prevention and diversion programs, including data analysis and trauma-based care options, to help South Dakotans avoid entering the criminal justice system. (South Dakota Searchlight)