PIERRE, S.D. (South Dakota Broadcasters Association) – South Dakota lawmakers are debating whether to make it harder to change the state constitution through ballot measures.
House Joint Resolution 5003 passed 61 to 5 Wednesday (Jan. 22, 2025) in the House. The resolution would require constitutional amendments to receive 60% of votes to pass, instead of the current simple majority. The measure itself would need voter approval to take effect.
Rep. John Hughes of Sioux Falls introduced the resolution. He argues it would protect the constitution from being influenced by out-of-state money. He cited recent ballot measures on Medicaid expansion and abortion rights as examples of campaigns funded heavily by non-South Dakota groups.
“Our Constitution should not be for sale to out-of-state interests,” Hughes said.
Opponents claim the change would limit voters’ power.
Rep. Erin Healey of Sioux Falls noted that getting constitutional amendments on the ballot already requires extensive work, including gathering signatures and legal review.
“It’s not a sign of a broken system. It’s a reflection of the state legislature not listening to their people,” Healey said.
The resolution follows a similar 2022 measure that voters rejected. That proposal would have required 60% approval only for amendments costing over $10 million.
HJR 5003 now moves to the state Senate.
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