South Dakota Consumer Resources
South Dakota residents – if you’re looking for state resource information, look no further. We have compiled a comprehensive list of links to help you on whatever search you may have. Whether you are inquiring about state agencies, legal resources, educational, financial, health, or employment-related information, our links will point you in the right direction.
Below is a summary of what each link has to offer. Any necessary contact information is also included.
STATE AGENCIES
Attorney General – The Attorney General’s office protects consumers and residents of South Dakota. You can visit this website for a variety of information. Learn more about crime prevention in the Criminal Investigation section. Protect your community by accessing the Sex Offender Registry. Read about consumer alerts or report an issue. You can contact the office at (605) 773-3215.
Department of Labor & Regulation – This department oversees insurance companies and regulations to ensure that they are operating within South Dakota law. You can verify agent licensure or get answers to insurance questions. Report a problem through the links of the homepage. Companies can also get tax information and licensing help. You can contact the division at 605-773-3563.
Public Utilities Commission – This commission oversees public utilities providers to ensure that they operating within South Dakota law. You can get more information on energy conservation and different providers. Read about the commissioners. You can even get consumer assistance for problems you may have. The department can be contacted at (605) 773-3201.
LEGAL RESOURCES
Small Claims Court – Looking for information on pursuing a small claims court case? You don’t even have to leave our website, just simply click on the link and read our article on South Dakota laws. Find out where you can sue, court cost limits, and attorney requirements. Learn about special provisions in South Dakota law.
Lemon Law – Have you recently purchased a vehicle and it’s already acting up? You may have bought a lemon. South Dakota lemon laws protect consumers. You can read an overview of the laws and characteristics to classify a vehicle as a lemon. Learn about the process from our interview with a Department of Motor Vehicles employee. Contact information is included in the article.
EDUCATION
Department of Education – This department oversees the education system in South Dakota. Get information on curriculum and testing. View finance reports and grants. You can learn more about after school programs and other organizations as well. You can contact the organization at (605) 773-3134.
FINANCE
Bureau of Finance & Management – This division ensures that companies and other institutions in South Dakota are adhering to fiscal policy in the state. You can get further information on the state budget. Get financial news for other organizations. The office can be reached at (605) 773-3411.
HEALTH CARE
Department of Health – You can find general health information for South Dakota through this website. Get information on flu season precautions and safety tips. You can follow links to get licensed as a food service or lodging establishment. Get statistics on disease or view hospital locations and services.
SAFETY
Public Safety – The Department of Public Safety is in place to protect the community through rules and regulations. You can get licensing information, and access highway patrol safety. Emergency services information is available. You can also contact the department at (605) 773-3178.
EMPLOYMENT
Bureau of Personnel – Looking for jobs in South Dakota? This link will help point you in the right direction. You can view the main job listing, or visit the SD Intern Program. You apply to work for the state online, and view the benefits of doing so. You can also contact the office directly at (605) 773-3148.
Contact South Dakota State & Local Consumer Agencies
State and local consumer protection offices mediate issues, conduct investigations, prosecute offenders of consumer laws, license and regulate a variety of professionals, promote strong consumer protection legislation, provide educational materials and advocate in the consumer interest. To save time, call the office before sending in a written report. Ask if the office handles the type of problem you have and if forms are provided.
State Office
John Strohman
Director of Consumer Affairs
Office of the Attorney General
500 East Capitol
State Capitol Building
Pierre, SD 57501-5070
605-773-4400
Toll free in SD: 1-800-300-1986
TDD: 605-773-6585
Fax: 605-773-4106
State Banking Regulators
The officials listed below regulate and supervise state-chartered banks. Many of them handle or refer problems about other types of financial institutions as well. Some also answer general questions about banking and consumer credit. If you are dealing with a federally chartered bank, check the listing of Selected Federal Agencies.
Richard Duncan
Director of Banking
State Capitol Building
500 East Capitol Avenue
Pierre, SD 57501-5070
605-773-3421
Fax: 605-773-5367
State Insurance Regulators
Each state has its own laws and regulations for all types of insurance, including car, homeowner and health insurance. The officials listed below enforce these laws. Many of these offices can provide you with information to help you make informed insurance buying decisions.
Darla L. Lyon
Director, Division of Insurance, Department of Commerce and Regulation
118 West Capitol
Pierre, SD 57501-2000
605-773-3563
Fax: 605-773-5369
E-mail: darlal@crpr1.state.sd.us
Web site: www.state.sd.us/insurance