A measure banning female genital mutilation or FGM has passed the Senate. FGM is the act of removing a part or all female genital organs. Currently, FGM is a federal crime. Proponents say making it a state crime creates another level of protection for victims and gives victims another avenue to seek justice. Senator Deb Soholt of Sioux Falls says House Bill 1089 takes a stand against a practice that is no longer tolerable.
"I think when we look at this statute that we’re putting in place what we’re trying to say is that this is a topic that is of concern to the women of the world. And this is a topic that we are opening up the conversation," says Soholt.
House Bill 1089 makes FGM a class 4 felony. The measure passed the Senate unanimously and now moves to the Governor for final approval.