12:20:02:02.  Mediator training. The director, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, may provide initial training in mediation techniques to the mediators. This training shall include at least 32 hours of initial training on the mediation process, mediation skills, federal lands issues, surface damage relating to oil and gas development issues, and shall include instruction that a mediator may not advise the requesting party or non-requesting party about the law or to encourage or assist a requesting party or non-requesting party in reserving or establishing legal rights. If a mediator has previous training exceeding these 32 hours, the mediator may provide proof of other qualifications. Subsequent and supplemental training of mediators may be conducted by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Successful completion of the initial training session constitutes the minimum qualification to serve as a mediator.

          Source: 41 SDR 93, effective December 2, 2014; SL 2021, ch 1, §§ 8, 19, effective April 19, 2021.

          General Authority: SDCL 54-13-2.

          Law Implemented: SDCL 54-13-2.