The South Dakota Catholic conference supports the passage of Senate Bill 98, which would eliminate the death penalty as a criminal sentence in most cases.  The Catholic Church calls for a culture of life, and firmly opposes the death penalty as an unnecessary tool of redress available to our criminal justice system.  Civil authorities have a duty to safeguard society and to hold persons accountable for grave crimes, but the obligation to seek order and justice must always give due regard to the dignity of all.  Senate Bill 98 honors the image of God inscribed in every human life.

Categories: 2021 Session