Community Leaders Call for Broader Approach to Public Safety and Addiction

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Public safety leaders from across South Dakota met in Rapid City for a roundtable discussion on ways to improve community safety. U.S. Rep. and gubernatorial candidate Dusty Johnson unveiled a proposal to form a task force that would increase penalties for drug dealers and bar violent offenders from parole, but advocates urged him to pair enforcement with expanded addiction treatment and social services.

Why it matters

South Dakota has struggled with high incarceration and recidivism rates, particularly for drug-related crimes. This discussion highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of addiction and crime, rather than relying solely on tougher enforcement.

The details

Johnson's plan would require overdose reporting in schools and improve statewide data tracking on overdoses. However, speakers at the event emphasized the need for better access to addiction treatment, reentry support, and data-driven policy to break cycles of incarceration. Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun also criticized the state's approach to distributing opioid settlement funds, calling for a more comprehensive investment in treatment and recovery.

• The roundtable discussion took place on Tuesday, April 8, 2026 in Rapid City, South Dakota.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The task force proposed by Rep. Johnson will meet in the coming weeks to finalize its recommendations, which are expected to be introduced in the state legislature later this year.