An overview of South Dakota law, statistics, legislation, and news stories related to Safe Haven Baby Boxes in the state.
Law
- See HB1044 below. Effective date: July 1, 2025
South Dakota Statistics
Baby Boxes: 1
Cases: 0
Legislation
See appropriate Legislative Year page for details on each bill
2025
HB1044 Amends South Dakota’s Safe Haven Law to authorize the installation of “newborn safety devices” located at emergency services providers or a licensed child placement agencies staffed 24/7. Enacted. Effective Date; July 1, 2025
- None
Hearings/Testimony/Letters
2025
News &Commentary
2026
- South Dakota’s first Safe Haven Baby Box installed in Rapid City , South Dakota Public Broadcasting, February 23, 2026
- Rapid City Fire Department becomes first agency in the state to operate a Safe Haven Baby Box, KNBN-TV, February 26, 2026
2025
- Sioux Falls Lawmaker proposes “Baby Safeyt Devices” Following Tragic Incident, KXLG-TV, January 24, 2025
- Prayer and Action Needed: Three Votes on Monday, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee. Prayerand Action Alert, January 26, 202
- Baby box bill passes unanimously in House, KELO-TV, January 27, 2025
- Baby boy found at Sioux Falls recycling center triggers news new surrender law, Sioux Falls Argus Leader, February 28, 2025
- Gov. Rhoen Signs “Baby Gabriel” Bill and Five Other Bills, South Dakota News.,gov, March 6, 2025
2024
- Mother of four advocates for baby boxes in South Dakota, KSFY-TV August 9, 2024
- South Dakota Right to Life discusses potential option for baby drop-offs, KSFY-TV, August 10, 2024
Updated: February 27, 2026