This bill amends various provisions related to voter registration in South Dakota, primarily redefining the terms and criteria for residency and voter eligibility. It replaces the existing definition of "residence" with a new definition of "resident," which specifies that an individual must have a physical presence in the state and intend to remain for at least thirty days before an election. Additionally, it clarifies that individuals who do not live in a fixed, permanent structure can still register to vote by providing an address for specific locations, such as a homeless shelter or a courthouse. The bill also establishes that individuals who are full-time students or active military members retain their residency status in South Dakota.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new requirements for voter registration documentation, mandating that applicants provide proof of U.S. citizenship. This can be done through various forms of identification, including a driver's license, birth certificate, or naturalization documents. It also allows individuals who have moved to another state but were previously registered in South Dakota to vote in presidential elections under certain conditions. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate voter registration records and outlines the responsibilities of county auditors in managing these records, including the rejection of applications lacking proper documentation. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the voter registration process while ensuring compliance with residency and citizenship requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/08/2025: 12-1-4, 12-4-1, 12-4-1.2, 12-4-5, 12-4-9, 12-4-12