This bill amends existing South Dakota law to establish guidelines for the participation of state delegates in an Article V convention, which is a constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Key amendments include redefining terms such as "Article V convention" and "delegate," and specifying that delegates must be at least 25 years old, registered voters, and residents of South Dakota for at least five years. The bill also outlines disqualifications for delegates, including recent federal lobbying or employment, and criminal convictions. Additionally, it mandates that delegates take an oath affirming their commitment to uphold the Constitution and adhere to legislative instructions.

The bill further stipulates that the Legislature will appoint five delegates, who may be recalled at any time, and establishes rules regarding their voting authority, including prohibitions against supporting unauthorized amendments. It also sets forth the process for handling vacancies, the salary and expense allowances for delegates, and the requirement for delegates to avoid accepting gifts exceeding a specified value. Violations of the provisions outlined in the bill, such as bribery or intimidation of delegates, are classified as felonies. Overall, the legislation aims to ensure that South Dakota's delegates operate within a defined framework that upholds the integrity of the constitutional amendment process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/29/2026: 2-15-16, 2-15-17, 2-15-18, 2-15-19, 2-15-21