South Dakota

Legislation*

*legislation that was introduced and not passed

2005

SD S.B. 153 - Introduced, January 27, 2005

This bill authorizes certified “limited access dental hygienists” in South Dakota to provide specific preventive services, including oral cancer screenings, to individuals not currently under the care of a dentist. These hygienists may work in schools, public institutions, clinics, and other nonprofit settings. The bill outlines certification requirements and mandates patient consent and referral protocols, with the goal of expanding access to oral health care for underserved populations.

2018

SD H.C.R. 1009 - Introduced, February 1, 2018*

This House Concurrent Resolution urges awareness that alcohol is a direct cause of seven types of cancer—including oral, oropharyngeal, and esophageal cancer—and encourages the South Dakota Department of Health to explore awareness and prevention campaigns. The resolution cites data from global health authorities and notes that even moderate alcohol consumption increases cancer risk. It advocates for improved public education and prominent health warnings on alcohol products, comparing them to successful tobacco warnings.