The bill amends 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 information about each registered voter, such as their voting history and absentee ballot applications. The bill specifies that the master registration file must be open to public inspection, but sensitive information like social security numbers and dates of birth will remain confidential. Additionally, the county auditor is mandated to produce a record of the master registration file the day before elections and maintain a five-year archive of historical information.
Furthermore, the bill establishes that the Secretary of State must maintain a rolling five-year historical archive of the statewide voter registration file and publish weekly updates on the Secretary's website. It also stipulates that any information obtained from the voter registration files cannot be used for commercial purposes and imposes penalties for violations. The Secretary of State is given the authority to promulgate rules regarding the establishment and maintenance of the voter registration file, ensuring the integrity and security of the system.
Statutes affected: Introduced, 01/15/2025: 12-4-9, 12-4-37, 12-4-39, 12-4-41