PIERRE, S.D. – State officials have announced that the South Dakota Highway Patrol will conduct sobriety checkpoints in 19 counties throughout the month of July to discourage impaired driving and improve overall roadway safety.

While the checkpoints are designed to enhance security across the state, drivers traveling to and from the Rapid City area should note upcoming enforcement operations planned in several neighboring West River counties, including Custer, Lawrence, Meade and Bennett; but not Pennington.

Funding for the specialized monthly enforcement efforts is provided by the South Dakota Office of Highway Safety. The operations are slated to be carried out by the South Dakota Highway Patrol in direct coordination with local law enforcement agencies.