SD HB1062

Amends South Dakota statute § 22-18-1.1 to add a new category of aggravated assault involving strangulation or suffocation

New provision (subsection 5) criminalizes attempting to induce fear of death or serious bodily harm by impeding breathing or blood circulation through pressure on the throat/neck or blocking the nose and mouth

Existing aggravated assault offenses remain unchanged, including causing serious bodily injury with extreme indifference, using dangerous weapons, and physical menace with deadly weapons

All violations of the aggravated assault statute constitute a Class 3 felony

Bill passed the 101st Legislative Session (2026) and is in enrolled status awaiting gubernatorial signature