revise the requirements for executive sessions and closed meetings.

Rules for South Dakota closed government meetings

South Dakota public bodies can close meetings only for reasons allowed by law. Personnel discussions can cover current or prospective public officers and employees, but not independent contractors. Student discussions can cover discipline, expulsion, suspension, school assignments, educational programs, and eligibility for interscholastic activities under state association rules. Bodies can consult lawyers or review their communications about proposed or pending lawsuits or contracts. They can also prepare for or conduct negotiations with employees or their representatives. Government-owned businesses can discuss marketing or pricing privately only when public discussion could harm their competitive position. Closed sessions can cover property and personal security, including crime-prevention plans, emergency response, and information whose release substantially risks safety or property. Protected topics also include computer networks, cybersecurity, passwords, usernames, guard schedules, lock combinations, and building or infrastructure records that expose critical-system weaknesses. Emergency plans, safety reviews, response personnel or supply lists, and locations or lists of weapons, ammunition, hazardous agents, or military or police equipment or personnel also qualify. Entry requires a majority vote of members present and voting at an open meeting; non-unanimous votes require roll call. The motion must name the legal basis, and both the motion and vote must appear in the minutes. Discussion must stay within the stated purpose, and official action must happen at an open meeting. Other constitutional or statutory grounds for closed sessions remain available. Violations are a Class 2 misdemeanor.