South Dakota Secretary of State Shantel Krebs says the increase in conceal carry weapon permits has continued into 2016.
In the month of January alone the Secretary of State’s office has seen the number of permits surge from an all-time monthly high of 2,968 in December to 3,879 in January.
Krebs says the increase in those carrying could be connected to national events…

Krebs says the uptick in numbers means that South Dakotans are becoming more involved…

Krebs adds that the total number of permit holders is significant as well…

The South Dakota Secretary of State’s office issues the permits once they are approved by the County Sheriff where the permit holder lives.
Two bills introduced this session have to do with concealed carry weapon. The first would repeal the prohibition against carrying a concealed weapon in the state capitol in Pierre. The second would allow a concealed pistol in the capitol and any county courthouse with an enhanced concealed pistol permit. Both bills are being sponsored by Senator Betty Olson of Prairie City.