SOUTH DAKOTA – South Dakota’s two Catholic bishops have issued a rare joint statement ahead of the November election, urging voters to support Amendment L, a proposed constitutional amendment that would require future constitutional changes to receive 60 percent voter approval instead of a simple majority.
The bishops emphasized that Amendment L is different from past ballot measures they have addressed, saying it is not a question of intrinsic moral right or wrong. However, they argued the proposal carries important implications for the common good and deserves voter support.
In their statement, the bishops said Amendment L would help protect constitutional rights by requiring broader public consensus before changes could be made to South Dakota’s constitution. They also said the measure would strengthen safeguards for minority rights, create an additional check against narrow majorities, and help limit the influence of well-funded out-of-state groups seeking to alter the state’s constitution.
The bishops pointed to recent ballot measure campaigns, including abortion-related amendments, as examples of why they believe a higher threshold should be required for constitutional changes.
While acknowledging that Catholics acting in good faith may reach different conclusions, the bishops said they believe Amendment L would provide an important safeguard by ensuring only amendments with broad public support become part of the state constitution.
South Dakota voters will decide the fate of Amendment L in the November 3 general election.
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