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SD HB1243

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/2/2026

Primary Sponsor

Phil Jensen

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Requires display of South Dakota's state motto "Under God the People Rule" in a prominent location within each public school, such as entryways, cafeterias, or other common areas

  • Display must be at least 11 inches by 8.5 inches and may be a mounted plaque, student artwork, or other appropriate form as determined by the school principal

  • Attorney General must provide free legal representation to school districts, employees, or board members sued over displaying either the state motto or national motto

  • State assumes full financial responsibility for all litigation-related expenses, including monetary damages, attorney's fees, and costs resulting from lawsuits over motto displays

Legislative Description

Require the display of the state motto in public schools and provide for associated legal representation.

Education

Last Action

House of Representatives Do Pass Amended, Failed, YEAS 28, NAYS 38. H.J. 282

2/10/2026

Committee Referrals

Education2/2/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available