“This is a strong first step, and the fight for the unborn is far from over.” – Chair Phil Jensen

PIERRE, S.D. — The South Dakota Freedom Caucus applauds Governor Larry Rhoden for his decisive action in defense of unborn life. At a time when the abortion industry is working overtime to circumvent state protections, Governor Rhoden has demonstrated the kind of moral leadership South Dakotans expect from their chief executive.

This action sends a clear message: South Dakota will not tolerate backdoor attempts to undermine our pro-life laws.

However, the South Dakota Freedom Caucus urges the Governor and the legislature not to stop here. Dangerous loopholes remain — and organizations like Mayday Health continue to exploit them, coaching women on how to obtain abortion drugs through the mail in direct defiance of South Dakota law. These actors treat our state’s protections for the unborn as obstacles to be circumvented rather than laws to be respected.

Representative Tony Randolph and the South Dakota Freedom Caucus are committed to advancing legislation that further strengthens South Dakota’s defense of life. The work is not finished. Every loophole is a life at risk.

“Governor Rhoden did the right thing, and we’re grateful,” said South Dakota Freedom Caucus Chair Representative Phil Jensen. “And let’s be clear: the abortion industry isn’t taking a day off, and neither are we. They’re running an underground railroad for abortion pills, and South Dakota needs to shut it down — completely. We will not rest until every unborn child in this state is protected equally under the law.”

The South Dakota Freedom Caucus stands ready to work alongside Governor Rhoden and principled legislators to ensure South Dakota remains the most pro-life state in the nation — not just in word, but in enforceable action.