Rhoden signs Mortenson’s bill requiring towns and school districts to hold their elections in June or November

South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden has signed a bill into law that would require all elections in the state be held on either the June Primary Election date or the November General Election date.

Representative Will Mortenson of Fort Pierre was a prime sponsor of House Bill 1130. When asked about the bill during the legislative session, he said the goal was to have better voter participation and turnout.

As an added benefit, Mortenson said HB 1130 will most likely provide cost savings for the towns and school boards because they’re able to split election related expenses.

Unlike many newly passed laws in South Dakota that begin July 1, 2025, Mortenson said HB 1130 won’t go into effect until Jan. 1, 2026, to allow towns and school boards time to make the necessary adjustments.