This bill amends existing voter registration laws in South Dakota to require individuals to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote. Specifically, it modifies section 12-4-1 to stipulate that individuals must demonstrate their citizenship through sufficient evidence as outlined in the new section added to chapter 12-4. The bill details acceptable forms of documentation, including a South Dakota driver license issued after July 1, 2025, a valid driver license from another state, a tribal identification card, or various forms of birth and citizenship certificates. Additionally, it establishes that individuals who fail to provide documentation will be designated as "federal voters," limiting their ballot to federal offices only.

The bill also repeals sections 12-3-1 and 12-3-1.1, which may have contained previous voter registration provisions. Furthermore, it amends section 34-10-7 to clarify voting eligibility in proposed hospital districts based on voter registration. An emergency clause is included, allowing the law to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, emphasizing the urgency of the bill's implementation for public safety and order.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/29/2026: 12-4-1, 12-4-1.3, 34-10-7, 12-3-1, 12-3-1.1
Senate State Affairs Engrossed, 02/17/2026: 12-4-1, 12-4-1.3, 34-10-7, 12-3-1, 12-3-1.1
Senate Engrossed, 02/19/2026: 12-4-1, 12-4-1.3, 34-10-7, 12-3-1, 12-3-1.1
Enrolled, 03/05/2026: 12-4-1, 12-4-1.3, 34-10-7, 12-3-1, 12-3-1.1