South Dakota Senate passes bill requiring municipalities and school boards to hold elections in June or November

March 10, 2025, update:

The South Dakota Senate has passed (March 10, 2025) a bill that will require all elections in the state be held on the traditional election days in either June or November.

House Bill 1130 prime sponsor Representative Will Mortenson of Fort Pierre said consolidating election dates will hopefully lead to better voter participation and turnout.

Senate prime sponsor Senator Chris Karr from Sioux Falls said currently, school boards and municipalities can hold their elections anytime between the second Tuesday in April and the third Tuesday in June. He said HB 1130 reduces that 77 day timeframe down to two days.

Mortenson says HB 1130 will most likely save the entities money by being able to consolidate election costs.

HB 1130 now goes to Governor Larry Rhoden for his signature or veto. If signed, the bill would go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.

March 10, 2025:

The South Dakota Senate will discuss a bill Monday (March 10, 2025) that would require all elections in the state be held on either the June Primary Election date or the November General Election date.

House Bill 1130 prime sponsor Representative Will Mortenson of Fort Pierre says consolidating election dates will hopefully lead to better voter participation and turnout.

Mortenson says HB 1130 will most likely save the entities money by being able to consolidate election costs.

The Senate convenes for its floor session at 11am.