South Dakota Constitution Article 15 - Militia.
South Dakota Constitution – Article XV: Militia
Summary:
Article XV of the South Dakota Constitution outlines the structure, authority, and obligations related to the state militia, now commonly referred to as the South Dakota National Guard. It defines who makes up the militia, the role of the governor, and legislative authority over military matters.
📜 Section-by-Section Summary:
Section 1 – Composition of the Militia
The militia consists of all able-bodied male citizens of the state between the ages of 18 and 45, except those who are exempted by law.
The legislature may provide for the enlistment of other persons into the militia.
Section 2 – Governor as Commander-in-Chief
The Governor is the commander-in-chief of the militia.
The Governor has the power to call out the militia to:
Enforce the laws,
Suppress insurrection,
Repel invasion.
Section 3 – Organization and Equipment
The legislature is responsible for providing laws that govern:
The organization,
Equipment,
Discipline of the militia.
This must be done in accordance with federal law, ensuring compatibility with national military standards.
✅ Key Takeaways:
All eligible male citizens form the base of the state's militia.
The Governor has broad emergency powers over the militia.
The Legislature controls the detailed functioning and modernization of the militia in line with federal standards.
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