South Dakota House Bill HJR5002

South Dakota 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/22
• Refer: 2/4/22

Caption

Proposing and submitting to the electors at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, establishing the commissioner of agriculture and natural resources as an elected constitutional officer.

Impact

Should this resolution pass, it will ensure that the commissioner of agriculture and natural resources is not only answerable to the governor but directly to the voters. This change is expected to enhance the relationship between the office and the constituents, allowing for greater public influence over policies that affect state agricultural and natural resource management. This constitutional amendment marks a significant shift in the governance of these sectors, emphasizing popular sovereignty in state-level decisions.

Summary

HJR5002 aims to amend the South Dakota Constitution to establish the position of commissioner of agriculture and natural resources as an elected constitutional officer. This amendment seeks to allow voters to directly elect the commissioner during general elections, a shift away from any prior appointment processes. As such, it positions agriculture and natural resource management closer to the electorate’s control, potentially increasing accountability and localized responsiveness to agricultural issues.

Contention

Discussions around HJR5002 include notable points of contention, particularly the concerns regarding the implications it could have on the efficiency and effectiveness of governance in agricultural policies. Opponents may argue that making the commissioner an elected office could lead to politicization within what should be a technically-driven position, where expertise is paramount. Furthermore, there could be fears that electoral pressures might divert focus from long-term resource management in favor of short-term political gains.