Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, underscoring that an individual must be a citizen of the United States to be eligible to vote.
Impact
If passed, SJR511 would significantly impact the voting laws in South Dakota by reinforcing citizenship requirements, which may lead to broader discussions on voter rights and accessibility. This amendment could enhance the legislative framework surrounding elections but also raises questions about how it will affect current residents who may not hold citizenship, potentially disenfranchising non-citizen residents used to participating in local processes. The amendment would preserve the ability of the Legislature to set reasonable voting regulations and is aimed at ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
Summary
SJR511 is a legislative measure proposed in South Dakota that seeks to amend the state constitution to specify that only United States citizens over the age of eighteen who meet certain residency and registration requirements are eligible to vote. The bill emphasizes the importance of citizenship in the voting process, implying a desire for stricter controls over voter eligibility. By allowing this amendment to be placed on the ballot for public vote, it reflects a direct engagement with the democratic process, empowering the populace to have a say in this critical aspect of governance.
Contention
The introduction of SJR511 has sparked conversations about inclusivity and the rights of various residents in South Dakota. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step to safeguard the electoral process from potential abuses and to clarify eligibility, while opponents are concerned about its implications for non-citizens, local engagement, and the potential exclusion of individuals based on citizenship status. Additional points of contention may arise regarding what measures are considered 'reasonable' in securing the integrity of votes, as this could lead to discussions about voter ID laws and other regulations.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, repealing the requirement to provide expanded medicaid.
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.
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.