PIERRE, S.D.(KCCR)- The South Dakota Senate has passed a bill that would give added protection to school employees if they are assaulted in the performance of their duties.  Senator Jim Stalzter says Senate Bill 129 would give teachers and other school officials the same standing as first responders.

Senator Tom Pischke says the bill as written would violate both the South Dakota and U-S Constitutions.

Senator Lee Schoenbeck countered Pischke’s claim the bill would run afoul of the Constitution.

The bill moves to the House on a 22 to 12 vote.