This bill amends various provisions related to voter registration in South Dakota, primarily redefining the criteria for residency and voter eligibility. The term "resident" is clarified to mean an individual with a physical presence in the state who intends to remain for at least thirty days before an election. It also establishes that individuals who do not have a fixed, permanent address can register to vote by providing an address for a homeless shelter, their place of residence, the county courthouse, or a general delivery address. Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals must provide documentation proving U.S. citizenship when registering to vote, with various acceptable forms of documentation outlined.

Further amendments include changes to the voter registration process, such as the requirement for individuals to attest to their residency status and citizenship under penalty of perjury. The bill 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 county auditor is tasked with maintaining a digital master registration file that includes voter information and documentation of citizenship, while ensuring that sensitive personal information remains confidential. 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