This bill amends several sections of South Dakota law to revise the process for preparing fiscal notes related to initiated measures, amendments to the state constitution, and referred laws. Specifically, it updates Section 2-9-30 to require the director of the Legislative Research Council to prepare a fiscal note if an initiated measure or amendment may impact state revenues, expenditures, or fiscal liabilities. The fiscal note must include estimates for the first full fiscal year after the measure takes effect and must also account for any potential impacts on prison or county jail populations. Additionally, a new section is added to require the director to review and potentially update the fiscal note if changes in the state budget or other factors render the original estimate inaccurate, with the updated note to be filed no later than August 1 in the election year.

The bill also amends Section 12-13-9 to outline the attorney general's responsibilities in delivering statements for proposed amendments and referred laws, ensuring that the most recent fiscal note is included on the ballot. Furthermore, it amends Section 12-13-25.1 to clarify the process for the attorney general to prepare a draft statement for initiated measures and amendments, including a public comment period. Lastly, Section 2-9-30.1 is repealed, indicating a simplification or consolidation of the fiscal note process. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accuracy in the fiscal implications of ballot measures presented to voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/16/2025: 2-9-30, 12-13-9, 12-13-25.1, 2-9-30.1
Enrolled, 02/25/2025: 2-9-30, 12-13-9, 12-13-25.1, 2-9-30.1