About Us

Corrections Commission

The state Corrections Commission was established in South Dakota Codified Law 1-15-1.13.

In statute, the purpose of the corrections commission is to assist the Department of Corrections in examining criminal justice issues and developing initiatives to address problems in corrections and the criminal justice system. State law requires the Corrections Commission to undertake a continuing study of criminal justice issues in South Dakota, which may include a review of current felonies, felony sentences, sentencing options, practices, programs, trends and initiatives.

In addition, no funds, other than those for normal operating costs and replacement of existing necessary equipment, may be expended from the prison industries revolving fund for the purposes of enhancement, development, or expansion of prison industries without approval of the commission.

The commission consists of nine members:

• Three members are appointed by the Governor. The Governor must appoint: one member from a list of three nominees provided by the Industry and Commerce Association of South Dakota; one member from a list of three nominees provided by the South Dakota Retailers Association; and one member representing labor;
• Two senators, one from each political party, appointed by the respective political party caucus leader;
• Two representatives, one from each political party, appointed by the respective political party caucus leader; and
• Two members appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

Members serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and may be removed by the appointing authority at any time.

The commission is required in statute to meet at least two times each year at the call of the secretary of the Department of Corrections or the chair of the commission.

Current members of the Corrections Commission include:

Corrections Commission Bylaws