South Dakota 2023 Regular Session

South Dakota Senate Bill SJR504

Introduced
1/26/23  

Caption

Proposing and submitting to the electors at the next general election an amendment to Article III of the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, to limit terms of service for legislators to eight years.

Impact

If approved by the voters, SJR504 would significantly alter the political landscape in South Dakota, potentially leading to higher rates of turnover among legislators. The introduction of term limits could encourage new candidates to run for office and may facilitate a broader representation of opinions in the legislature. However, it may also raise concerns about the loss of experienced legislators who have built institutional knowledge that can be beneficial in governance.

Summary

SJR504 is a proposed joint resolution introduced by Senator Brent 'B.R.' Hoffman during the 2023 South Dakota Legislative Session. This resolution seeks to amend Article III of the South Dakota Constitution to impose term limits on members of the legislature. Specifically, it aims to restrict legislators to serving no more than four consecutive terms, translating to a total of eight consecutive years in either the Senate or the House of Representatives. The proposal is designed to present this amendment to the state's electorate in the next general election for approval.

Contention

The proposal reflects a growing trend in various states towards instituting term limits for elected officials. Proponents argue that this could enhance democracy by preventing career politicians from entrenching themselves in power, thereby promoting political accountability. On the other hand, critics may contend that term limits could hinder legislative effectiveness by reducing the expertise and experience of lawmakers. The conversation surrounding SJR504 will likely center on these opposing viewpoints as stakeholders evaluate the implications of such constitutional changes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD SJR501

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, limiting the number of terms an individual may serve as a member of the Legislature.

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, limiting the assessed value of real property and limiting real property taxes.

SD HJR5005

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 limiting real property taxes.

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, resetting, then limiting property taxes to a flat rate, until adjusted when sold.

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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.