South Dakota Senate Bill SB124

South Dakota 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Refer: 1/26/23

Caption

Update maintenance and verification requirements for voter registration files.

Impact

If passed, SB124 would lead to increased scrutiny over voter registrations and streamline procedures for confirming voter accuracy. By mandating that information be cross-checked against tax records and other governmental databases, the bill is expected to reduce instances of fraudulent registrations and ensure that voters are verified before elections. The requirement for auditors to maintain their files and conduct updates semi-annually, particularly before general elections, is seen as a crucial step towards bolstering the overall electoral process.

Summary

Senate Bill 124 aims to modify the maintenance and verification requirements for voter registration files in South Dakota. The bill requires county auditors to ensure that the master registration file—a computerized list of voters—is updated regularly and contains accurate information about registered voters. The bill stipulates public access to these files while placing restrictions on certain sensitive information, such as social security numbers and dates of birth. Furthermore, it mandates that auditor’s databases be synchronized with county tax records to validate the residency of registered voters, thus fortifying the integrity of voter registration processes.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB124 may involve contrasting perspectives on electoral integrity and access to voting. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for preventing election fraud and maintaining accurate voter rolls, thereby ensuring fair elections. Critics, however, could express concerns that increased verification processes might disenfranchise voters, particularly those who may not respond to verification requests promptly or those from marginalized communities. Thus, the balance between ensuring election integrity and protecting voter access is likely to be a focal point of the debate as the bill progresses.