Some ballot questions could require work after election

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — South Dakota voters have some homework to do before the November 5 election. There are seven ballot questions ranging from abortion to landowner rights.

On this year’s statewide ballot, there are four Constitutional Amendments, two initiated measures and one referred law. It is up to the Attorney General to try to explain each side as fairly as possible. You can find these explanations on your ballot on election day, which is a lot of reading. Or you can access and even print sample ballots on the Secretary of State’s website.

Attorney General Marty Jackley says he only gets 200 words to explain each issue, which can add to the challenge.

“That explanation has to be fair, not pick sides, talk about the legal affect and assist educating the voters on what they are looking at,” said Jackley.

On this years ballot, you will notice on Constitutional Amendment G there is a note that reads
“Judicial Clarification of the amendment may be necessary. The Legislature cannot alter the provisions of a constitutional amendment.” Jackley says his goal is to help the voter be as informed as possible.

“I felt the voters needed to know that whatever they are voting on may require some additional work either by the legislature or by the courts,” said Jackley.

Constitutional Amendment H and Initiated Measure 28 also have notes that further court or legislative action may be needed.

“This is going to be a busy ballot with significant life-changing issues that the voters are going to have to take a lot effort and time making sure they are making an informed decision on,” said Jackley.

You can find the Attorney General’s explanations about the Constitutional Amendments, the Initiated Measures and the Referred Law on the Secretary of State’s website along with printable sample ballots. Click here or here.

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