PIERRE, S.D.(SDBA)-Concerns over child protection led South Dakota House members to reject a conference committee report Wednesday that would have established parental rights as “fundamental” in state law.

Representatives voted 39-31 against the report on Senate Bill 113 after an emotional hour-long debate, primarily objecting to the removal of language explicitly protecting children from abuse and neglect.

Republican Rep. Tim Reisch from Howard introduced the motion to reject the report.

The debate exposed deep divisions over the proper balance between parental authority and state protection of children.

Rep. Peri Pourier, D-Rapid City, raised concerns about potential impacts on the Indian Child Welfare Act without the protective language.

Rep. John Hughes, R-Sioux Falls, a lawyer, said the bill in its conference committee form would give Native American parents more rights.

Also on the opposite side, Republican Rep. Bethany Soye from Sioux Falls pushed back against killing the bill.

Several lawmakers shared their personal experiences on both sides of the issue.

Republican Rep. Travis Ismay from Newell.

Republican Rep. Tina Mulally from Rapid City agreed.

Republican Rep. Keri Weems from Sioux Falls, told about an attempt to help a child.

With the report rejected, and no new committee appointed, Senate Bill 113 will not advance further this session.