South Dakota Constitution Article 7 - Elections and Right of Suffrage.
South Dakota Constitution – Article VII: Elections and Right of Suffrage
🔹 Overview:
Article VII of the South Dakota Constitution governs the right to vote, the qualifications of electors, and general rules regarding elections in the state.
🔸 Key Provisions:
Section 1 – Right to Vote
Every U.S. citizen, age 18 or older, who has resided in South Dakota and the voting precinct for the required period (set by law), has the right to vote in elections.
Voting rights cannot be denied except as provided by law (such as for felony convictions or mental incompetence).
Section 2 – Elections by Ballot
All elections must be conducted by ballot or other lawful method to ensure secrecy and integrity.
The legislature determines voting methods, ensuring they remain secure and fair.
Section 3 – Residency Requirements
Voters must be residents of both the state and the voting district.
Specific residency requirements are determined by law (e.g., living in the state for a certain number of days prior to an election).
Section 4 – Disqualifications
Persons convicted of felonies or declared mentally incompetent may be disqualified from voting, as provided by law.
Restoration of voting rights can occur under conditions set by the legislature.
🔹 Purpose:
Article VII ensures:
Protection of voting rights for eligible citizens.
Regulation of fair and secure elections.
Clarity on who may vote and under what conditions voting rights may be restricted or restored.
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