PIERRE, S.D.(Press Release) – On Wednesday, Governor Kristi Noem signed SB 57 to provide second-chance professional licensing opportunities into law. This bill creates uniform procedures for consideration of criminal histories and conviction in professional or occupational licensure.

“When individuals are ready to reenter society, we want them to have the opportunity to build a career and provide for themselves and their families,” said Governor Noem. “This bill ensures that an unrelated criminal past doesn’t stop qualified applicants from filling our open jobs and successfully reentering the workforce.”

Governor Noem was joined at the bill signing by Jack Brewer, a nationally recognized advocated for criminal justice reform.

“The nation is watching. Second chances are a huge issue in our country,” said Jack Brewer. “To be able to have a bill like this, a second chance bill, actually brings hope to those that many have left out. I am grateful for Governor Kristi Noem’s commitment to second chances.”

Last year, Governor Noem worked with legislators and signed a bill to enhance workforce Freedom by recognizing out-of-state licenses for nearly every profession. This new law cut unnecessary government red tape and made it easier for folks who move to South Dakota to get to work right away.

SB 57 builds on that concept – and it applies it to a different population. With this bill, Governor Noem is continuing to remove barriers preventing individuals from entering the workforce.

Governor Noem highlighted this bill in her State of the State Address. Photos from the bill signing can be found here.

Governor Noem has signed 41 bills into law this legislative session.