Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring that a constitutional amendment receive an affirmative vote of sixty percent of the votes cast before the measure is enacted.
The proposed amendment would impact how voters engage with ballot measures in South Dakota. By requiring a higher level of consensus for constitutional amendments, proponents argue that it would ensure that only amendments with broad support would be enacted, potentially fostering stability within the state’s constitutional framework. This could lead to fewer changes being made to the Constitution, thereby preserving its core tenets and preventing frequent or partisan-driven alterations.
HJR5003 is a proposed joint resolution that seeks to amend the Constitution of South Dakota. Specifically, the resolution aims to require any constitutional amendment to be approved by an affirmative vote of sixty percent of the votes cast in an election before it can take effect. This change is significant as it raises the voting threshold from a simple majority to a supermajority, fundamentally altering how constitutional amendments can be enacted in the state.
The sentiment surrounding HJR5003 appears to be mixed among lawmakers and constituents. Supporters of the resolution argue that a higher voting threshold protects the integrity of the Constitution, ensuring that significant changes reflect a more comprehensive consensus among voters. Opponents, however, may view this as an unnecessary barrier that could hinder the democratic process, making it more difficult for citizens to enact reforms that reflect their will.
One notable point of contention regarding HJR5003 is the implications of increasing the voting threshold for constitutional amendments. Critics raise concerns that such a requirement could disproportionately affect minority opinions and initiatives aimed at reforming various aspects of state law. Additionally, it raises fundamental questions about accessibility and representation in the democratic process, as a supermajority could render many voter-driven initiatives practically unattainable.