Catherwood LibraryILR School

A bill seeking to strengthen South Dakota’s “right-to-work” laws is advancing to the House floor despite concerns from some committee members who approved it Monday in Pierre. House Bill 1166, introduced by Rep. Tony Randolph, R-Rapid City, would require union representatives to obtain employer permission before entering worksites to collect dues, recruit members, or organize strikes, while also increasing penalties for certain violations from misdemeanors to felonies. Union officials opposed the measure, arguing that its language is too vague and could violate federal law, making compliance difficult for businesses operating in multiple states. Despite skepticism from some lawmakers, the bill passed the committee with a 10-2 vote and will now be considered by the full House.