The bill amends South Dakota's election laws to require voters to use a black ink ballpoint pen when marking their ballots, specifically for both paper and optical scan ballots. The previous allowance for voters to use a pencil or other marking instruments has been removed, ensuring that only a pen is used for marking ballots. Additionally, the bill repeals a section that permitted the use of pencils or other marking instruments for optical scan ballots.

By implementing this change, the legislation aims to enhance the clarity and reliability of marked ballots, potentially reducing issues related to ballot readability and ensuring a more uniform voting process. The removal of the option to use pencils aligns with the goal of maintaining the integrity of the voting system in South Dakota.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/03/2025: 12-18-16
Senate Local Government Engrossed, 01/23/2025: 12-18-16, 12-18-16.1
Senate Engrossed, 01/28/2025: 12-18-16, 12-18-16.1