State Laws
Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or straight-supportive, your state’s laws probably have a major impact on your life. State laws govern everything from the legal status of relationships between same-sex partners to the ability of transgender people to list their correct gender identity on their birth certificates. The Human Rights Campaign works with state leaders to advance the rights of LGBT people across the nation, from Alabama to Wyoming.
Here you can learn about the current laws affecting LGBT issues in your state, as well as state legislation — upcoming bills that could change the way you live. You can also learn more about what’s going on in your state and find out about local news, elections and volunteer opportunities.
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State Laws can be filtered by state or you can view the full list of Laws by selecting "All State Laws."
South Carolina Sodomy Law
The South Carolina sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
South Carolina Surrogacy Law
There are no provisions in South Carolina law regarding surrogacy, but the limited case law indicates an acceptance of surrogacy contracts. The issue of surrogacy agreements involving lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) individuals has not yet been considered by the courts.
South Dakota Adoption Law
South Dakota Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
South Dakota Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
South Dakota Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in South Dakota state law.
South Dakota Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
South Dakota Healthcare Laws
State healthcare laws relating to the LGBT community in the areas of medical decision making and hospital visitation.
South Dakota Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
South Dakota law and the state constitution both purport to ban marriage for same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
South Dakota Non-Discrimination Law
South Dakota law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
