South Dakota Constitution Article 22 - Compact with the United States.
South Dakota Constitution – Article 22: Compact with the United States
Summary:
Article 22 of the South Dakota Constitution outlines South Dakota’s agreement (or "compact") with the United States as a condition of its admission to the Union. This article is essentially a formal declaration of South Dakota's acceptance of terms required by the federal government, especially as outlined in the Enabling Act of 1889, which allowed South Dakota (along with North Dakota, Montana, and Washington) to become a state.
Key Provisions Typically Included in Article 22 (Compact with the United States):
Religious Freedom:
The state agrees not to make any laws respecting the establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.
School Lands and Education:
South Dakota agrees that lands granted by the federal government for public schools will be used only for educational purposes.
Indian Lands:
Indian lands within South Dakota remain under federal jurisdiction unless otherwise authorized by the U.S. Congress.
No Taxation of Federal Property:
The state will not tax federal lands or property unless allowed by Congress.
Non-Discrimination:
South Dakota agrees not to discriminate in civil or political rights on the basis of race or color.
Purpose:
This compact ensured that South Dakota's statehood complied with U.S. constitutional requirements and federal expectations. It served as a foundational legal agreement binding South Dakota to specific conditions in exchange for admission into the Union.
RELATED Blog
0 comments