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 a requirement that individuals must be U.S. citizens at the time of the election, alongside existing requirements such as residency, age, and compliance with voter registration laws.

Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for violations related to voter eligibility and registration. 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 knowing one is not a qualified voter, 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