Gov. Larry Rhoden signed three bills Friday aimed at reinforcing what his administration calls South Dakota’s core values, including HB 1184, which formally defines “man” and “woman” in state law.
Officials note that HB 1184 aligns with a prior executive order issued by former President Donald Trump that recognized male and female as the only two sexes.
Rhoden also signed two additional measures:
- SB 159, revising the minimum‑age requirements for marriage
- HB 1161, updating provisions for changing rooms, sleeping quarters, and restrooms
Rhoden also signed three pro-life bills into law, including HB 1274, which stops illegal abortion pills from killing South Dakota babies and harming South Dakota moms. As well as:
- HB 1257 amends the definition of an abortion to make clear that miscarriage management and ectopic pregnancy are not abortions; and
- HB 1313 requires education in prenatal human growth and development.
With Friday’s signings, Gov. Rhoden has approved 196 bills and issued one veto during the current legislative session.
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