South Dakota moving to allow cameras in courts

by Cara Hetland, Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — The South Dakota Supreme Court is taking steps to allow cameras and audio recording of circuit court proceedings. South Dakota was the last state in the union to allow cameras in its high court.

Seven years ago the South Dakota Supreme Court allowed its proceedings to be recorded and video taped. But until earlier this year, state law banned cameras in circuit courts.

Now Chief Justice David Gilbertson will determine broadcast media access to the lower court proceedings. Gilbertson has appointed a committee to study the issue and make a recommendation.

Minnesota has allowed cameras in courtrooms for more than 15 years, if all parties agree. Many lawyers and judges object on principal and many media outlets have stopped asking.

Supporters of cameras in the courtrooms say technology has changed and the issue needs to stay in the forefront.