PIERRE, S.D. (SDBA) — The South Dakota legislature is considering a bill that would allow residents of a homeowners’ association (HOA) to carry weapons in any part of the HOA.
This would include common areas like the sidewalk.
Senate Bill 39 passed the House Commerce and Energy Committee today (Monday) 11 to 1.
The bill would prevent an HOA board from banning firearms in common areas.
According to investopia.com, HOAs create and enforce rules for residents in planned communities, subdivisions, or condominium buildings.
Proponents of the bill argue that the legislature has preempted local governments from enacting gun laws and that HOAs should not be able to ban firearms.
The bill is expected to affect 40,000 South Dakotans in 17,000 HOA homes.
The House of Representatives will consider the bill next.