PIERRE, S.D.(KCCR)- A bill in the South Dakota legislature would toughen the penalty for anyone convicted of attempting to murder law enforcement officers in the state.  Senate Bill 48 is one of a number bills brought by Attorney General Marty Jackley.

The bill was supported by the state’s police chiefs and states attorneys.  Staci Ackerman represents the South Dakota Sheriff’s Association.

Senator Jim Mehlhaff of Pierre says during his time on the Pierre City Commission as Public Safety Commissioner he was disgusted by how law enforcement across the country is treated.

The Senate Judiciary Committee delayed action on the bill as it requires a prison jail population and cost estimate which has not been completed yet.