The passage of the bill marks a significant shift in voting regulations in South Dakota, where previously only proof of residency was required to register to vote. The new law aims to reduce voter fraud, which supporters argue is a significant issue in the state. However, opponents claim that the law is unnecessary and will have a disproportionate impact on marginalized communities.
Background on the Bill
The bill was introduced in the state legislature in February by Republican Senator Al Novstrup, who argued that the measure was necessary to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. The bill was met with opposition from Democrats and some Republicans, who argued that it would create barriers to voting for certain groups.
A key argument made by opponents of the law is that it will disproportionately affect Native Americans, who may not have access to the necessary documentation to register to vote. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Native Americans make up approximately 9% of the population in South Dakota, but are significantly underrepresented in the state's voter rolls.
Impact on Voting Rights
The new law is expected to have a significant impact on voting rights in South Dakota, particularly for low-income individuals and minority groups. Opponents of the law argue that it will create a barrier to voting, which will have a disproportionate impact on communities that are already disadvantaged. For example, a study by the League of United Latin American Citizens found that in 2016, only 55% of eligible Latino voters in South Dakota were registered to vote, compared to 73% of eligible white voters.
Additionally, opponents of the law point out that it will place an undue burden on voters who may not have access to the necessary documentation to register to vote. For example, individuals who were born outside of the United States may not have a passport or birth certificate, and may have difficulty obtaining the necessary documentation.
Next Steps
The new law takes effect in July, and voters will be required to provide proof of citizenship to register to vote. The law also provides for a process for voters to appeal if they are rejected for lack of documentation. However, opponents of the law are likely to challenge the measure in court, arguing that it is unconstitutional and will disenfranchise certain groups.
In the meantime, voters in South Dakota are advised to check with their local election officials to determine what documentation they will need to register to vote. The state's election officials have stated that they will provide assistance to voters who need help obtaining the necessary documentation.
The passage of the bill marks a significant shift in voting regulations in South Dakota, and is likely to have a lasting impact on the state's electoral process. As the law takes effect in July, voters and election officials will be closely watching to see how the measure is implemented and whether it will have the desired effect of reducing voter fraud.