PIERRE, S.D. (KELO.com) — A bill that would allow the seizure of guns and ammunition from someone deemed mentally ill and a danger to themselves or others is defeated in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
The measure’s sponsor is Republican Senator Art Rusch of Vermillion. He says this proposal is an “extreme risk protection order” and provides for due process for those accused of being dangerous.
Rusch says only a law enforcement officer can begin the process.
The measure was opposed by Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden, speaking on behalf of the Governor. He calls this a “red flag law.” Judiciary Committee Chair, Senator Lance Russell of Hot Springs, is concerned about false accusations.
The measure was killed on a 5-2 vote.
(Perry Miller, KJJQ, contributed this report.)
