SD
South Dakota Senate Bill SJR511

South Dakota 2024 Regular Session

South Dakota Senate Bill SJR511

Introduced
1/25/24  

Caption

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, underscoring that an individual must be a citizen of the United States to be eligible to vote.

Impact

If passed, SJR511 would significantly impact the voting laws in South Dakota by reinforcing citizenship requirements, which may lead to broader discussions on voter rights and accessibility. This amendment could enhance the legislative framework surrounding elections but also raises questions about how it will affect current residents who may not hold citizenship, potentially disenfranchising non-citizen residents used to participating in local processes. The amendment would preserve the ability of the Legislature to set reasonable voting regulations and is aimed at ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

Summary

SJR511 is a legislative measure proposed in South Dakota that seeks to amend the state constitution to specify that only United States citizens over the age of eighteen who meet certain residency and registration requirements are eligible to vote. The bill emphasizes the importance of citizenship in the voting process, implying a desire for stricter controls over voter eligibility. By allowing this amendment to be placed on the ballot for public vote, it reflects a direct engagement with the democratic process, empowering the populace to have a say in this critical aspect of governance.

Contention

The introduction of SJR511 has sparked conversations about inclusivity and the rights of various residents in South Dakota. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step to safeguard the electoral process from potential abuses and to clarify eligibility, while opponents are concerned about its implications for non-citizens, local engagement, and the potential exclusion of individuals based on citizenship status. Additional points of contention may arise regarding what measures are considered 'reasonable' in securing the integrity of votes, as this could lead to discussions about voter ID laws and other regulations.

Latest SJR511 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD SJR505

Proposing and submitting to the electors at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, updating references to certain officeholders and persons.

SD HJR5001

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring an intervening general election occur before an initiated constitutional amendment that is substantially similar to an initiated amendment that was previously voted on and rejected may be submitted to a vote of the electors.

SD HJR5004

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election, an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, authorizing the state to impose work requirements on certain individuals who are eligible for expanded Medicaid.

SD HJR5006

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, providing for wagering on sporting events via mobile or electronic platform.

SD SJR501

Proposing and submitting to the electors at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, providing for the retention elections of circuit court judges.

SD SJR502

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election amendments to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota revising and establishing certain constitutional provisions regarding the lieutenant governor and the presiding officers of the Senate and House of Representatives.

SD HJR5003

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election a new section to Article VI of the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, relating to the right of a person to reject certain medical procedures.

SD SJR503

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, limiting the amount of ad valorem tax on real property, and limiting the increase in the assessed value of real property.

SD SJR504

Proposing and submitting to the electors at the next general election an amendment to Article III of the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, to limit terms of service for legislators to eight years.

SD HJR5002

Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment establishing congressional term limits.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.