South Dakota 2023 Regular Session

South Dakota House Bill HJR5001

Introduced
1/13/23  

Caption

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring an intervening general election occur before an initiated constitutional amendment that is substantially similar to an initiated amendment that was previously voted on and rejected may be submitted to a vote of the electors.

Impact

If enacted, HJR5001 would significantly alter the landscape of how constitutional amendments are initiated and voted upon in South Dakota. This change could lead to fewer similar proposals appearing on ballots, thereby promoting a more measured approach to constitutional amendments. Proponents of the bill argue that it will preserve legislative integrity and empower voters to make informed decisions without the confusion of repetitive, similar options on the ballot.

Summary

HJR5001 is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, which aims to change the process for submitting initiated constitutional amendments for voter consideration. Specifically, the bill mandates that any initiated amendment determined to be substantially similar to a previously rejected amendment cannot be submitted for a vote until at least one intervening general election has occurred. This legislation seeks to ensure that voters have time to consider the implications of previously rejected proposals before being presented with similar options again.

Contention

The bill has sparked debates among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding its implications for democratic processes. Supporters contend that it will prevent voter fatigue and confusion over similar amendments, while opponents express concerns that it may limit the public's ability to address urgent issues through constitutional initiatives. Critics warn that imposing a waiting period could entrench existing policies and inhibit necessary reforms, particularly in a rapidly changing socio-political climate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD HJR5006

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election amendments to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring an intervening general election before consideration of an initiated constitutional amendment or initiated measure having the same subject as a previously rejected initiated amendment or measure.

SD HJR5003

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.

SD SJR504

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring a number of signatures on a petition to initiate a constitutional amendment be obtained from each county.

SD HJR5004

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election amendments to the Constitution to the State of South Dakota, increasing the number of required signatures on a petition to initiate an amendment or measure.

SD SJR503

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, clarifying that an individual must be a citizen of the United States to be eligible to vote.

SD SJR508

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election, amendments to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, removing the lieutenant governor as presiding officer of the Senate.

SD SJR507

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, providing for wagering on sporting events via mobile or electronic platform.

SD SJR506

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, limiting to a flat rate the real property taxes.

SD SJR505

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.