SB 187 South Dakota Senate · 2026 Regular Session

define nonpublic school.

SB 187 defines "nonpublic school" in South Dakota law as an institution operated by individuals or groups (not publicly elected boards) that teaches math and English fundamentals to children of compulsory school age, with English instruction focused on mastery. The bill specifies that such schools may limit enrollment, charge tuition, receive grants or services from school districts, but cannot claim geographic territory for tax revenue or receive state education aid under Chapter 13-13. It also clarifies that nonpublic schools are not required to be accredited or have certified teachers. This definition applies to all nonpublic schools in South Dakota, establishing their legal boundaries for funding and operations.
Bill status failed 2 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Feb 2026
Senate Failed
Feb 2026
Governor
Introduced Jan 29, 2026 Last action Feb 17, 2026
Floor votes · Senate Feb 17, 2026

How they voted

1123
Failed · 1 other
Total votes 35
Feb 17, 2026
D Democratic3
3 Nay
100% Nay
R Republican32
11 Yea 20 Nay 1
62% Nay
Vote distribution
All Yea All Nay Mixed No data
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
6
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Feb 17, 2026
Vote failed
Senate Vote: fail (11-23-1)
senate
Feb 11, 2026
Upper · Passed
Senate Deferred to another day , Passed, S.J. 245
upper
Feb 10, 2026
Upper · Passed
Education Do Pass , Passed, YEAS 4, NAYS 3
upper
Jan 29, 2026
Introduced
First read in Senate and referred to Senate Education S.J. 139
upper
5 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors