Panel backs narrow doxing ban aimed at protecting judges and law enforcement

Randy DiVert described HB 1298 as a collaborative measure with the governor’s office to address doxing — the malicious publication of identifying details such as home addresses or dates of birth with the intent to threaten officials. “This bill establishes the crime of doxing of law enforcement officers and judges,” DiVert told the committee.

Katie Hruska, the governor’s general counsel, said the proposal is narrower than an earlier bill and excludes legislators and elected officials to avoid chilling legitimate contact with policymakers. “When you publish online, it can take one publication and that can then be shared and stored forever,” she said, arguing the online permanence justifies a narrowly tailored criminal provision.

Supporters from the Unified Judicial System and the South Dakota Sheriffs Association described real incidents in which officers’ families were targeted and urged the panel to adopt protections. The committee voted 7‑0 to report HB 1298 to the floor and place it on consent.