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Bill

SB 73

require that an individual registering as a voter when applying for a driver license be a resident of this state for the purposes of voting.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Amber Hulse and 1 co-sponsor

South Dakota law now requires driver's license applicants registering to vote to be state residents, clarifying voter eligibility at DMV registration points.

Signed by the Governor on 2025-03-31 S.J. 540
#driverlicense #motorvehicles #residency
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Bill Summary · SB 73

Legislative bill overview

SB 73 requires that individuals registering to vote when applying for a driver's license in South Dakota must be state residents for voting purposes. The bill clarifies residency requirements at the point of voter registration during the DMV application process and became law on March 31, 2025.

Why is this important

Voter eligibility and residency verification are foundational to election administration. This bill codifies residency standards for a high-volume registration point (driver's license applications), potentially affecting registration procedures and DMV operations. It addresses whether non-residents can register through motor voter programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Residency definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what constitutes "residency" (how long someone must live in the state before registering), creating implementation questions for DMV staff
  • Motor voter compliance: The National Voter Registration Act requires states to offer registration at DMV; this bill may create tension between federal motor voter mandates and state residency enforcement
  • Registration barriers: Applicants who haven't met residency thresholds could be denied registration at DMV, potentially reducing registration rates and affecting voter access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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