Governor signs bill to recognize tribal police in South Dakota as law enforcement

Governor signs bill to recognize tribal police in South Dakota as law enforcement

South Dakota Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden speaks to members of the media at the Capitol in Pierre on Feb. 12, 2026. (Photo by Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight)Starting July 1, tribal police helping their state or local counterparts will be recognized as law enforcement officers under South Dakota law.  Gov. Larry Rhoden signed House Bill 1007 and other public safety and public welfare-related bills into law on Monday. Currently, the defin…