Senate Bill 109, submitted by Democratic Sen. Reynold Nesiba, aims to provisionally repeal capital punishment in South Dakota.
The bill argues that the death penalty is problematic, ineffective as a deterrent, and economically burdensome.
Nesiba believes life imprisonment would be a more cost-effective alternative.
However, Attorney General Marty Jackley supports the death penalty sparingly, emphasizing its role as a deterrent and a tool to protect law enforcement officers.
The state currently has one death row inmate, and SB 109 will face discussion in the Senate Judiciary Committee this week.