The bill amends South Dakota's absentee voting laws to clarify and expand the eligibility criteria for individuals wishing to vote by absentee ballot. It specifies that an individual registered to vote may vote absentee if they are not disqualified by law and meet certain conditions, including being absent from their registered county on election day, being unable to vote in person due to physical disability, illness, religious observance, educational commitments, employment circumstances, receiving care in a facility, serving as a juror, or being an overseas or uniformed services voter.

Additionally, the bill updates the application process for absentee ballots, requiring individuals to apply at least three business days before the election and to provide specific information, including their name, voter registration address, date of birth, and the reason for requesting the absentee ballot. It also mandates that the application include a copy of the voter's identification card and clarifies the process for voters covered by the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. The bill further establishes that absentee voting by mail begins forty-six days prior to the election and outlines the procedures for in-person absentee ballot applications.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 02/02/2025: 12-19-1, 12-19-1.2, 12-19-2, 12-19-2.1
Senate State Affairs Engrossed, 02/21/2025: 12-19-1, 12-19-1.2, 12-19-2, 12-19-2.1