SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — A bill that could criminalize librarians for allowing minors to check out books deemed harmful is advancing in the South Dakota Legislature.
House Bill 1239, which passed the House 38-32 on Thursday, would remove legal protections for librarians and educators, making them subject to the same obscenity laws as private citizens and businesses.
Supporters, like Norman Woods of South Dakota Family Voice, argue the bill closes a loophole, ensuring schools and libraries face accountability for the materials they provide.
Opponents, including Elizabeth Fox of the South Dakota Library Association, warn the bill’s vague language could criminalize librarians unfairly, emphasizing that libraries already work closely with parents on content concerns.
The bill now moves to the Senate, where the debate over free access to literature versus content restrictions for minors is expected to continue.