This bill amends several sections of South Dakota's election laws to establish that only individuals who are citizens of the United States are eligible to vote in elections. Specifically, it modifies Section 12-3-1 to include the requirement of U.S. citizenship as a condition for voting, alongside existing requirements such as residency, age, and compliance with voter registration laws.

Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for violations related to voter registration and voting. It amends Sections 12-26-3, 12-26-4, 12-26-7, and 12-26-8 to classify certain actions as misdemeanors or felonies, including knowingly making false statements to register or vote, voting while unqualified, impersonating a registered voter, and voting in multiple precincts or states. These changes aim to strengthen the integrity of the voting process in South Dakota by ensuring that only eligible citizens participate in elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/10/2025: 12-3-1
Senate Engrossed, 02/03/2025: 12-3-1, 12-26-3, 12-26-4, 12-26-7, 12-26-8
House State Affairs Engrossed, 03/04/2025: 12-3-1, 12-26-3, 12-26-4, 12-26-7, 12-26-8
Conference Committee Engrossed, 03/12/2025: 12-3-1, 12-26-3, 12-26-4, 12-26-7, 12-26-8
Enrolled, 03/13/2025: 12-3-1, 12-26-3, 12-26-4, 12-26-7, 12-26-8