The bill amends various provisions related to municipal and school district elections in South Dakota, focusing on the timing and conduct of these elections. Key changes include a requirement that special elections must occur within a timeframe of no less than thirty and no more than fifty days from the governing body's order. Additionally, if a petition is filed on or after January 1st prior to the regular municipal election, the question must be submitted at that regular election. The bill also clarifies that special elections will be conducted under the supervision of the municipal finance officer and outlines procedures for submitting questions regarding annexation, dissolution, and changes in government structure to voters.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the terms of office for elected officials, allowing for the extension of terms from three to four years for trustees in even-numbered years. It specifies that vacancies in the office of the mayor must be filled by a majority vote of the aldermen and establishes that a special election cannot be held if the vacancy occurs within twelve months of the regular election. The amendments aim to streamline the election process, ensure timely compliance with election laws, and standardize the procedures across municipalities, including the requirement for annual elections and the management of election notices and vacancies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/05/2026: 9-4-4.7, 9-5-3, 9-5-5, 9-5-7, 9-6-10, 9-7-3, 9-8-2, 9-8-4, 9-8-7, 9-9-3, 9-9-8, 9-10-1, 9-10-5, 9-10-6, 9-11-6, 9-11-9, 9-13-1, 9-13-14, 9-13-14.1, 9-13-14.2, 9-13-16, 9-13-16.2, 9-13-31, 9-13-41, 9-20-11