The South Dakota House of Representatives wants to give students a chance to stay in activities if they are suspended for a drug offense or other crimes. Senate Bill 113 allows students an option of staying in activities if they enter treatment or counseling. Republican State Representative Kris Langer says this bill improves the future potential for high school students.
"Studies show that students who participate in activities have better attendance in graduation rates, higher GPA’s, fewer social and legal problems and they’re more successful in life after high school. We should be encouraging kids to participate rather than prohibiting them from doing so," Langer says.
On a first offense a student can serve a 30 day suspension from activity events, this doesn’t include practices, if they seek counseling. A second offense suspends a student for any activity events in a 60 day window, if they enroll in a treatment program. Students who commit a third offense would be suspended indefinitely. Senate Bill 113 passed the House 49-19. It goes back to the Senate for approval before going to the Governor.
