SECRETARY OF STATE MONAE L. JOHNSON ANNOUNCES UPDATED RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR VOTER REGISTRATION

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office is notifying voters of changes to residency requirements for voter registration taking effect on July 1, 2025. These updates reflect changes to South Dakota Codified Laws?12-1-4 and 12-4-1, providing clearer guidance for determining voter residency and the registration process.

Under the revised law, a “resident” is defined as someone who maintains a fixed, permanent dwelling where they live and usually sleep for at least thirty consecutive days. The law also clarifies that a person remains a resident of South Dakota while temporarily away, so long as they intend to return.

“These updates provide clarity and consistency for voters, county officials, and our office,” said Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson. “Our goal is to ensure that every eligible voter understands what it means to be a resident and how to register confidently and accurately.”

Additional details about voter residency may be found on the Secretary of State’s Voter Registration webpage.