The bill amends existing provisions related to the tabulation of ballots in South Dakota, specifically addressing the use of automatic tabulating equipment and the release of cast vote records and ballot images. Key definitions are updated, including the introduction of terms such as "ballot image" and "cast vote record," which refer to the digital representation of a ballot and the electronic record of how votes were tabulated, respectively. The bill also stipulates that each counting location must be within the jurisdiction of the election authority unless sufficient tabulating equipment is unavailable, in which case a location outside the jurisdiction may be designated.

Additionally, the bill establishes a resolution board appointed by the county auditor, consisting of representatives from political parties that had candidates in the previous general election, ensuring balanced representation. It allows for the release of cast vote records and ballot images after the official canvass, with specific restrictions to protect voter anonymity and data integrity. The jurisdiction conducting the election is responsible for the costs associated with producing and releasing these records. An emergency clause is included, indicating the bill's immediate necessity for public safety and governance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/02/2026: 12-17B-1