PIERRE, S.D. — The South Dakota Freedom Caucus announced the passage of its “South Dakota First” legislative package, a pair of major reforms designed to secure elections and protect the state’s workforce. The legislation—SB 175, sponsored by Freedom Caucus Vice Chair Senator John Carley, and HB 1209, sponsored by Representative Josephine Garcia—passed the South Dakota Legislature yesterday and now heads to Governor Larry Rhoden’s desk.
Together, the measures represent a decisive step toward restoring confidence in the ballot box and ensuring that South Dakota jobs go to legal workers.
“These bills reflect the priorities we hear from citizens across this state every day,” said South Dakota Freedom Caucus Chairman Rep. Phil Jensen. “Hardworking South Dakotans want secure elections and a fair labor market. The Freedom Caucus made those priorities the focus of this legislative package, and we’re proud to send real reforms to the governor’s desk.”
Senator John Carley, Vice Chair of the South Dakota Freedom Caucus and sponsor of SB 175.
SB 175, sponsored by Senator John Carley, requires individuals registering to vote in South Dakota to provide documentary proof of United States citizenship. Individuals who cannot provide proof of citizenship may still register as “federal voters,” allowing them to vote only in federal elections.
Supporters say the measure strengthens confidence in elections by ensuring that only citizens determine the outcome of state and local races.
“Only American citizens should decide the future of South Dakota,” said Senator John Carley. “Every illegal vote cancels out the vote of a lawful citizen. SB 175 protects the integrity of our elections and ensures that South Dakota voters—not non-citizens—determine the direction of our state.”
The legislation passed the South Dakota House by a 64–3 vote, meeting the two-thirds threshold required for the bill’s emergency clause. The measure will take effect immediately upon the governor’s signature.
The legislative package also includes HB 1209, sponsored by Representative Josephine Garcia, which requires employers with 50 or more employees to use the federal E-Verify system to confirm the employment eligibility of new hires within 20 days of hiring. Employers who fail to comply may face a $2,000 civil penalty per violation.
Proponents say the measure helps ensure that jobs intended for legal workers are not taken through unlawful hiring practices.
“South Dakota jobs should go to people who are legally allowed to work here,” said Representative Josephine Garcia. “HB 1209 ensures a fair playing field for workers, protects businesses that follow the law, and holds accountable those who try to cut corners by hiring illegally.”
HB 1209 passed the South Dakota Senate by a 32–2 vote, demonstrating strong bipartisan support for protecting South Dakota workers.
Freedom Caucus leaders say the passage of SB 175 and HB 1209 demonstrates a commitment to policies that prioritize the interests of South Dakota citizens.
“South Dakotans expect their government to stand up for them,” Jensen said. “This legislative package does exactly that by protecting the integrity of our elections and the opportunity of our workers.”
Both bills now await action from Governor Larry Rhoden.
Representative Josephine Garcia, sponsor of HB 1209 requiring E-Verify for large employers.
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