Scored 5/10 on whether it helps or hurts everyday people.
The Guides & Penalties Bill
South Dakota wants to license fishing guides and add penalties
Provide for the licensure of certain fishing guides, and to provide a penalty therefor.
Mixed: some good, some bad ·
If passed, the bill would make fishing guides get a state license and could fine them if they work without it.
Our take
What we think, in plain words.
Guides would have to pay for a license, which could raise their costs, but tourists would get more reliable, vetted services.
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The facts
What the bill actually says, no spin.
- The bill requires certain fishing guides to obtain a state license.
- It sets a penalty for operating without the license.
- The bill is currently introduced and has been debated in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.
How they voted
The actual floor vote, and who broke from their own party.
Want to see how your representatives voted on this? Find your reps →
- Timothy Goodwin (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
- Kevin Van Diepen (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
In the news
Scanning the news for this bill…
Headlines gathered from across the news, starting points to explore, not endorsements. Always read the official text before acting.
Sources
Read it yourself: the official bill and records.
This bill is in the South Dakota Bill Book 2026
The best and worst South Dakota bills of 2026, one page each — our take on the left, the bill on the right, and room for your notes. No email needed.
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