South Dakota 2025 Regular Session

South Dakota Senate Bill SJR505

Introduced
1/30/25  
Refer
2/3/25  
Report Pass
2/19/25  
Engrossed
2/20/25  
Refer
2/21/25  
Report Pass
3/5/25  
Enrolled
3/6/25  

Caption

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, establishing the trust for unclaimed property fund.

Impact

By establishing this trust for unclaimed property, SJR505 aims to enhance financial management of unclaimed assets and promote the growth of the state's resource base. The mechanism ensures that unclaimed property is not only preserved but also contributes to state funding through interest income. This initiative is expected to provide a more systematic approach to handling unclaimed assets and ensures these funds can be utilized effectively for state needs while safeguarding their principal.

Summary

SJR505 proposes a constitutional amendment in South Dakota to establish a trust fund for unclaimed property. This resolution seeks to create a designated fund within the state treasury, which will receive net receipts from unclaimed property. The State Treasurer will manage this fund, ensuring its investment in various financial instruments. A significant aspect of this amendment is that beginning July 1, 2027, a portion of the interest and income from the trust fund will be distributed into the state's general fund, contributing to the state’s revenue.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR505 appears to be largely positive, particularly among legislators interested in enhancing the state's financial stability. Supporters believe that this amendment is a prudent step towards ensuring unclaimed property benefits the public revenue. However, as with any financial constitutionality change, there may be concerns among some stakeholders about the governance and management of the trust fund, particularly regarding transparency and the allocation of earnings.

Contention

While the proposal is generally viewed favorably, notable points of contention may arise regarding the distribution of the fund's income and the stipulations surrounding the preservation of the principal amount. The legislation restricts any diversion of funds except under specific circumstances requiring significant legislative approval, which could potentially limit flexibility. Critics may argue about the implications of locking away state assets and the impact this may have on immediate funding requirements or community-specific programs reliant on unclaimed property.

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 SJR505

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

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 SJR506

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election, an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, to address the right of citizens to bear arms.

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 HJR5001

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring all non-judicial offices elected by a statewide vote to be nominated at a primary election.

SD HJR5003

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election, an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, to limit the placement of restrictions on the right to bear arms.

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 SJR504

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota revising the process by which a legislative vacancy is filled.

SD SJR501

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.