This bill amends several provisions related to the maintenance and publication of the statewide voter registration file in South Dakota. It requires county auditors to maintain a digital master registration file that includes detailed voter information, such as registration details and absentee ballot applications. The bill mandates that this master file be open to public inspection, while protecting sensitive personal information like social security numbers and birth dates from public access. Additionally, it establishes a requirement for county auditors to transmit daily updates to the secretary of state and to maintain a rolling five-year archive of historical voter registration data.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that mandates the secretary of state to maintain a rolling five-year historical archive of the statewide voter registration file, which must also be made available free of charge, with similar protections for sensitive information. The bill outlines the secretary of state's responsibilities for posting weekly updates to the voter registration file and sets forth rules regarding the establishment and maintenance of the statewide voter registration file, including fees for accessing this information. It also emphasizes that any information obtained from the voter registration files cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes, with violations subject to criminal and civil penalties.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/15/2025: 12-4-9, 12-4-37, 12-4-39, 12-4-41
House State Affairs Engrossed, 01/27/2025: 12-4-9, 12-4-37, 12-4-39, 12-4-41
Senate Engrossed, 03/11/2025: 12-4-9, 12-4-37, 12-4-39, 12-4-41
Enrolled, 03/12/2025: 12-4-9, 12-4-37, 12-4-39, 12-4-41