SD
South Dakota House Bill HB1179

South Dakota 2023 Regular Session

South Dakota House Bill HB1179

Introduced
1/30/23  

Caption

Require members of the Legislature to attend a course on the federal and state constitutions.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1179 is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing the qualifications and responsibilities of legislative members. By requiring formal education in constitutional matters, the bill seeks to improve the level of discourse and decision-making in the Legislature, increasing government accountability and understanding of citizens' rights as stipulated by the Constitution. Lawmakers who undergo this training may be better equipped to consider the legal and ethical dimensions of the bills they propose and endorse.

Summary

House Bill 1179 mandates that each elected member of the South Dakota Legislature complete a two-hour training course on the federal and state constitutions before the beginning of their subsequent legislative session. The course is to be coordinated by the director of the Legislative Research Council, who will select the instructor and outline the course content, aimed at enhancing legislators' understanding of constitutional principles and their responsibilities under the law. This bill reflects a continued effort to ensure that lawmakers are well-informed about the fundamental legal frameworks that govern the state and the nation.

Contention

Despite its educational intentions, HB 1179 may face opposition regarding its implementation and perceived necessity. Some critics could argue that mandating such a course imposes an unnecessary burden on elected officials, particularly for those who may already be well-versed in constitutional matters due to their previous experience or legal backgrounds. There may also be concerns about the selection of instructors and the course curriculum, emphasizing the importance of neutrality and comprehensive coverage of constitutional topics to avoid bias in legislative education.

Voting_history

As of February 3, 2023, the bill was deferred to the 41st legislative day after a favorable vote of 12 in favor and 1 against, indicating some bipartisan support while also highlighting that not all legislators may agree on the necessity of such mandated training.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD HB1111

Require members of the Legislature to attend a course on the federal and state constitutions.

SD SB185

Require members of the Legislature and staff of the Legislative Research to attend a course on Indian law.

SD SB699

Legislature: constitutional course.

SD HB1140

Require the secretary of state to determine if a legislatively proposed constitutional amendment complies with the single subject requirement and is not a constitutional revision.

SD HB1044

Update the United States census survey used to ascertain and adjust the salary of members of the Legislature.

SD SB93

Creating the constitution and federalism defense act to establish a joint legislative commission to evaluate the constitutionality of federal mandates.

SD SJR503

Applying for a convention of states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States, to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office for members of Congress and other federal officials.

SD SJR508

Applying for a convention of states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States, to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office for members of Congress and other federal officials.

SD HJR5001

To apply for a convention of states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States, to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office for federal officials and members of Congress.

SD HJR1

To apply for a convention of states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States, to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office for federal officials and members of Congress.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.