An Act to revise certain provisions regarding eligibility for parole for certain persons sentenced to life imprisonment.

Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of South Dakota:

Section 1. That § 24-15-4 be AMENDED.

24-15-4. Person sentenced to life imprisonment ineligible for parole--Exceptions.

No inmate person sentenced to life imprisonment is eligible for parole by the Board of Pardons and Paroles except as

(1) As provided in §§ 24-15A-55 to 24-15A-68, inclusive.; or

(2) A person who was sentenced to life imprisonment for an offense that was committed when the person was twenty-five years of age or younger is thereby eligible for discretionary parole consideration when the person reaches fifty years of age.

If a person considered for discretionary parole pursuant to subdivision (2) of this section is denied parole, the board shall establish a discretionary parole date of not more than two years from the date of denial. Subsequent discretionary hearings shall be held at intervals of not more than two years.

A person granted parole pursuant to subdivision (2) of this section is otherwise subject to the provisions of chapters 24-13, 24-15, and 24-15A.

Section 2. The provisions of this Act apply retroactively.