Senate Hearing For Bill That Would Limit Librarians’ Rights

The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to review House Bill 1239 this week, a controversial piece of legislation aimed at limiting librarians' rights. The bill, which has already passed the House, seeks to make it illegal for librarians to allow minors to check out books deemed inappropriate.

By Riley Harrington March 5, 2025 12:44 pm

South Dakota State Library closure South Dakota Library Association announcement library services ending June 30 public library funding cuts Trump administration IMLS cuts DOGE funding and libraries South Dakota Department of Education IMLS funding loss library access South Dakota state library closure 2025 South Dakota public services — Metro Services

PIERRE, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) The Senate Judiciary Committee will hear a bill this week that would limit librarians’ rights. House Bill 1239 would make it illegal for librarians to allow minors to check out inappropriate books. It would remove the affirmative defense for librarians, museums, and schools. The bill will be heard by the committee on Thursday. It has already passed the House.

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