South Dakota signature requirements
From Ballotpedia
South Dakota signature requirements are based on the number of total votes cast for governor in the last election. The number required for a constitutional amendment is higher than for a statutory initiative or veto referendum. There is no recall in South Dakota.
The most recent gubernatorial election in South Dakota was in 2006, when Mike Rounds was elected. The next gubernatorial election is in November 2010. Since the number of signatures required in South Dakota is based on the most recent gubernatorial election, the signature requirements for 2010 are identical to those for 2008, whereas the signature requirement for 2012 will change based on the number of votes cast in 2010.
Signature requirements
| Year | Amendment | Statute | Veto referendum |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 33,551 | 16,776 | 16,776 |
| 2008 | 33,551 | 16,776 | 16,776 |
These numbers apply to the next general election on November 2nd, 2010.
Deadlines
Initiative language can be submitted at any time. The maximum allowable time for circulation is one year. For 2010 initiated constitutional amendments, the deadline for submitting signatures is November 2, 2009. For 2010 initiated statutes, the deadline for submitting signatures is April 6, 2010.
See also: Petition drive deadlines, 2010.
Basis for calculation
- For a constitutional amendment, signatures must equal 10% of the total votes cast for governor in the last election. The current number required is 33,551.
- For an initiative or a referendum, 5% of the total votes cast for governor are required in signatures. The current number is 16,776.
See also
- States where signature requirements are based on votes cast for governor
- Laws governing the initiative process in South Dakota
External links
- Initiatives and Referendums from the South Dakota Secretary of State
- NCSL signature chart for 2008
- South Dakota signature requirements collated by the Citizens in Charge Foundation
