South Dakota 2026 Regular Session

South Dakota House Bill HB1079

Introduced
1/16/26  

Caption

Revise the conditions for denial or restriction of a motor vehicle or motorcycle operator license or permit if an individual has a medical condition that can be controlled under the care of a physician.

Impact

The proposed changes have implications on state law, particularly regarding how medical conditions are assessed in the context of motor vehicle operation. By allowing individuals who can prove their condition is managed effectively through medical treatment to obtain temporary permits, the legislation promotes inclusivity and acknowledges the advancements in medical management of various conditions. This may result in increased mobility for individuals who might otherwise be unfairly restricted from driving due to past episodes that they have managed through treatment.

Summary

House Bill 1079 seeks to amend the existing regulations surrounding the denial or restriction of motor vehicle and motorcycle licenses for individuals with certain medical conditions. Specifically, the bill revises the criteria under which licenses can be denied, allowing for the issuance of a temporary permit if the applicant's condition is under control as per a licensed physician's assessment. This change aims to facilitate a more individualized consideration of applicants based on their specific medical circumstances.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention surrounding the assessment of whether an individual's medical condition is adequately controlled. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the adequacy of medical evaluations and the potential for variability in physician assessments, which could lead to inconsistencies in license issuance. Additionally, public safety advocates might raise questions about the implications of allowing individuals with certain medical histories to operate vehicles, emphasizing the need for stringent standards to ensure road safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD HB1139

Allow individualized investigative treatments for patients with life-threatening or debilitating diseases or conditions.

SD SB75

Require an indication of United States citizenship status on a motor vehicle operator's license or permit, and on a nondriver identification card.

SD SB73

Require that an individual registering as a voter when applying for a driver license be a resident of this state for the purposes of voting.

SD HJR5001

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, conditioning the requirement of expanded Medicaid on the level of federal medical assistance.

SD HB1065

Repeal the requirement that an adult occupant of a motor vehicle in forward motion must wear a safety belt.

SD SB109

Permit a school district to implement a new or revised section 504 plan, individualized family service plan, or individualized education program for a student who is the child of an active-duty member of the United States armed forces.

SD HB1218

Address the imposition of firearm restrictions on certain employees, officers, volunteers, and other individuals.

SD SB102

Revise provisions related to the practice of physician assistants.

SD SB110

Revise licensure and supervision requirements for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.

SD HB1129

Provide for the transfer of motor vehicles and boats upon death.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.