The South Dakota Board of Elections voted 5-2 Wednesday to reject a petition from the South Dakota League of Women Voters seeking several election rule changes related to the state’s new proof-of-citizenship voter registration law.
Board members determined that under South Dakota’s administrative procedures law, only state agencies and political subdivisions can petition for rule changes, concluding that the League of Women Voters does not qualify.
Secretary of State Monae Johnson and four other board members supported the decision, while two members voted against it. Johnson said her office is responsible for enforcing state law and suggested supporters seek changes through the Legislature.
The league’s proposals were prompted by Senate Bill 175, a law enacted earlier this year that requires documentation of U.S. citizenship to register to vote. The board’s interpretation could have broader implications for how citizens and organizations seek rule changes from state boards and commissions in the future.
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