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 the 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.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the business manager of the school district, who must verify 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 ensures their name will appear on the ballot for the specified term. The bill also includes provisions for the timely filing of the petition, stating it must be submitted by 5 p.m. on the Friday thirty-nine days before the election, and can be considered filed if mailed by registered mail by that deadline.

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