House passes bill requiring school bond elections on regular primary or general dates

House Bill 10-93, which requires school districts to hold bond elections on primary or general election dates each year, passed the South Dakota House of Representatives on Feb. 7 after a motion to reconsider and an amendment. The amended measure lets districts place bond questions on the primary date and, if the measure fails, again on the general election date in that same year; the amendment removed a proposed multi-year gap and allows annual elections on the standard dates.

The change was presented by Representative Aylward, who said the amendment would provide clarity and allow school boards to hold elections more frequently on standard dates. Representative Ellward moved the amendment (10-93A); members adopted it by voice vote. Supporters argued the bill would make the timing of school bond elections clearer for voters and help districts plan outreach. Representative Hughes said the legislature represents taxpayers and urged members to protect constituents' interests by making election timing predictable. Representative Muckey cautioned that more frequent election opportunities can raise financing costs for districts, which may increase costs passed on to taxpayers.

After debate, the House voted on final passage. The clerk reported 44 ayes, 23 nays, and 2 excused; the bill was declared passed. The title was deemed correct and the bill will proceed per legislative process.

Votes at a glance: House Bill 10-93 — final passage as amended: 44 ayes, 23 nays, 2 excused (declared passed).