Legislative Update with Kenley

​Explore key legislative wins, challenges, and what’s ahead for South Dakota credit unions following the 101st Legislative Session.

By Kenley Lamberty, DakCU Director of Political Strategy and Engagement

Post‑Session Tour to Highlight 101st Legislative Session Outcomes
As the 101st Legislative Session wraps up, your Dakota Credit Union Association is offering post‑session presentations to any credit union interested in a tailored briefing on this year’s activity at the statehouse. We’ll cover key legislative outcomes, emerging issues to watch, and the policy trends shaping the operating environment for South Dakota credit unions.
 
New Bills Taking Effect July 1 (Supported)
House Bill (HB) 1238 – Protecting Vulnerable Adults from Financial Exploitation
This bill provides protections for financial institutions that take action to prevent the exploitation of consenting, senior, or vulnerable adults. It empowers your frontline staff with the ability to intervene when someone appears at risk and to contact a trusted individual to help safeguard members.
 
Senate Bill (SB) 98 – Fraud Prevention for Crypto Kiosk Transactions
This bill creates additional safeguards and barriers for those engaging in crypto kiosk transactions to help reduce fraud. It is aimed at protecting consumers who may be targeted through these systems.
 
Bills We Opposed
HB 1026 – Property Data Collector Licensing
This bill would have created new licensing and registration requirements for property data collectors and their companies. It would have imposed unnecessary burdens on credit unions.
Outcome: Died in committee.
 
SB 150 – Motor Vehicle Exemption Expansion
This proposal sought to exempt one motor vehicle of a debtor from being taken by legal process. While well‑intended, it would have shifted losses onto credit union members.
Outcome: Defeated.
 
HB 1248 – Amendments to the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
These changes to the UCC would have created significant challenges for credit unions and the contracts they enter.
Outcome: Defeated.
 
In total, we tracked 25 bills throughout the session and had three bills pulled before they were even filed—another indicator of our strong advocacy presence.
 
 ​Stay Connected
For more information or to share your perspectives, feel free to contact me. ​​