#United States #South Dakota #COVA #Voting Rights #Pierre

South Dakota Senate Backs Citizens Only Voting Amendment

In a decisive move to solidify voting rights for U.S. citizens, the South Dakota Senate voted overwhelmingly, 33-2, in favor of the Citizens Only Voting Amendment (COVA) on February 3, 2025. This pivotal joint resolution, officially known as SJR 503, is now set to be reviewed by the House of Representatives.

Senator Taffy Howard (R-34), the primary author of the amendment, emphasized the vital nature of this legislation, stating, "Voting is a fundamental right and privilege reserved for citizens. This amendment will eliminate any loopholes in South Dakota's constitution that may allow non-citizens to vote in local elections." Senator Howard's comments highlight the intention behind the COVA: to empower citizens by assuring them that their votes cannot be diluted by non-citizen participation.

The urgency of this legislation stems from concerns raised by legal experts. According to Joshua Douglas, a law professor at the University of Kentucky, South Dakota municipalities with home rule authority could potentially bypass state legislation to permit non-citizen voting at the local level. This possibility sparked fears about the integrity of local elections — fears that COVA aims to quash.

Senator Amber Hulse (R-30), a co-sponsor of the legislation and an election lawyer, expressed her strong support, stating, "The South Dakota Senate just sent a loud and clear message — our elections are for citizens only!" Hulse emphasized the need for a clear stance, asserting that only U.S. citizens should have a say in determining the future of America.

Despite South Dakota's leadership in this initiative, advocates for citizen-only voting perceive a broader, concerning trend in the nation. Jack Tomczak, Vice President of Americans for Citizen Voting, noted that over 21 cities across the United States currently allow foreign citizens to vote in local elections. Cities in states like California, Illinois, and New York have adopted such measures, highlighting a growing disparity in voting rights across the country.

Tomczak remarked, "Make no mistake, there are efforts all over the country to legalize foreign citizen voting. It is imperative that states like South Dakota take action to prevent this from occurring."

Representative Logan Manhart (R-1), who is the author of the bill in the House, echoed the sentiments of his Senate colleagues, insisting that the voice of citizens must be protected. He asserted, "From top to bottom, no exceptions. We must defend the liberties of South Dakotans. This resolution is a step toward ensuring that our elections are free from foreign interference."

The response from constituents has been overwhelmingly supportive, with an emphasis on the importance of safeguarding electoral processes. Tomczak urged South Dakotans to reach out to their representatives to ensure prompt passage of SJR 503, warning that any delay could leave the state vulnerable to foreign voting influence.

The push for citizen-only voting laws has been gaining traction across the country. In recent years, several states including Alabama, Colorado, and Florida have successfully enacted similar amendments, further emphasizing a national movement toward more stringent voting laws. Additionally, efforts to adopt COVA are currently underway in various states, including Texas and Indiana.

As South Dakota prepares for the next legislative steps, the COVA stands as a significant testament to the state's commitment to preserving the sanctity of its elections for U.S. citizens alone, leaving voters hopeful for a bright and secure electoral future.