This bill amends South Dakota law regarding the nomination process for candidates seeking election to a school district board. It stipulates that candidates must disclose their party affiliation on a formal declaration of candidacy, which must be signed before circulating a nominating petition. The bill specifies that candidates, except for those who are enlisted members of the South Dakota National Guard or armed forces, must include their party affiliation as listed on their voter registration card. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the petition must be signed by at least twenty voters from the school district or the specific representation area, and it cannot be circulated until ten weeks prior to the election.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the business manager of the school district, who is tasked with verifying that the candidate is a resident voter and that the nominating petition has the required number of signatures. The filing of the petition, once verified, constitutes the candidate's nomination and allows their name to be placed on the ballot. The amendments include changes to the language regarding the nomination process, such as the removal of certain phrases and the addition of new requirements for candidate disclosures and petition verification.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/30/2025: 13-7-6
House Education Engrossed, 02/13/2025: 13-7-6