Artificial intelligence has increasingly become a part of the lawmaking process in South Dakota during 2026. According to the report, several lawmakers have started using tools such as ChatGPT, Grok, Gemini, and Claude to research topics, prepare speeches, and even refine bill drafts. They see AI as a faster and more advanced version of traditional research methods like library searches or internet browsing.
One major advantage highlighted in the article is speed and efficiency. Lawmakers explained that AI helps them quickly compare laws across all 50 states, draft talking points, and review policy language in a short amount of time. This is especially useful during busy legislative sessions when time is limited. Some representatives even said they run draft bills through AI multiple times to improve clarity and structure before submission.
However, the article also raises serious concerns about accuracy and legal reliability. AI systems can sometimes generate false information, incorrect legal citations, or “hallucinated” laws that do not actually exist. Legal experts and former lawmakers warned that even one small factual mistake in a bill can create major legal problems. Because of this, many stress that AI should only be used as a support tool and that final legal review must remain with trained human experts.
Overall, the report shows that AI is changing the legislative process by making research and drafting faster, but it also introduces risks that require strong human oversight. The main concern is that while AI can improve productivity, lawmaking still depends on human judgment, legal reasoning, and accountability. This makes the use of AI in government both exciting and controversial.
