Larry Rhoden on Gun Control

Proud state recognizes the right to Constitutional Carry

Allow concealed carry of guns on college campuses

Summary by South Dakota Public Broadcasting, March 24, 2025:South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden is signing three bills into law that chip away at some of the last frontier of gun free zones in the state. [The] third law allows college students and staff with enhanced concealed carry permits to have a firearm on campuses. "We have taken greater actions to defend our Second Amendment rights than any other state," said Gov. Rhoden. In 2019, state lawmakers removed any permit requirements to carry a concealed pistol.

Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 33-2-0 on Feb/12/25; passed House 55-14-1 on Mar/6/25; signed by Governor Larry Rhoden on Mar/24/25.

Allow concealed carry of guns at state capitol

Analysis by Sioux City Argus-Leader: The state Supreme Court chambers would be excluded and anyone who wanted to carry would need to register with Capitol security 24 hours beforehand. The bill's sponsor said the bill is aimed at ensuring security in the Statehouse by allowing those who've taken a handgun training and self-defense course and undergone an FBI background check to carry.

Veto Message: The law enforcement officers who protect our Capitol building have specialized training which is repeated on a regular basis. In contrast, South Dakotans who hold an enhanced concealed pistol permit were required to undertake approximately 8 hours of instruction, just once.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 19-15-1 on 3/6/17; Rhoden co-sponsored & voted YES; ; Vetoed on 3/27/17; Veto Sustained 42-27 on 3/27.