Require certain reviews and updating of voter registration records and data sharing.
Impact
The impact of SB123 is significant, as it directly addresses issues of voter eligibility and the management of voter registries. By incorporating monthly updates from various sources, including the Social Security Death Index, the bill aims to streamline the process of removing ineligible individuals, such as those who have died or been convicted of felonies, from the voter registration lists. Supporters argue that these measures will strengthen the electoral process and enhance public trust in the integrity of elections.
Summary
Senate Bill 123 (SB123) seeks to enhance the integrity and accuracy of voter registration records in South Dakota. This legislation mandates that clerks of courts regularly update the county auditor with the names of individuals deemed mentally incompetent, along with those who have passed away. Additionally, it requires the secretary of state to compare statewide voter registration files with death records and felony conviction databases on a monthly basis. By establishing these data-sharing protocols, SB123 aims to ensure that only eligible voters are registered and that the voter rolls accurately reflect the current population.
Contention
However, the legislation has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public. Critics raise concerns regarding privacy and the potential for errors in data matching that could disenfranchise eligible voters. They argue that relying on independent audits and automated systems without robust oversight may lead to wrongful removals from voter rolls. Additionally, some contend that the focus on such measures may inadvertently target certain populations, such as individuals with mental health issues or those from marginalized communities, raising alarms about voter suppression.