Chamber opposes Amendment C
The Board of Directors for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce has adopted a position of opposition to the proposed Constitutional Amendment C. The Chamber urges a “no” vote on Amendment C on the 2022 primary election ballot.
Amendment C seeks to raise the threshold of voter approval needed for certain ballot measures from 50 percent plus-one to a higher threshold requirement of three-fifths (60%) voter approval. It was placed on the June 2022 primary ballot by the state legislature.
In voting to oppose Amendment C, the Board expressed three concerns with the issue:
- The amendment makes it more difficult for the people of South Dakota to pass ballot measures. Historically, ballot measures rarely receive over 60% voter support.
- Political maneuvering resulted in the placement of the question on the primary ballot, where voter turnout is typically less than half of the turnout in a general election. Essentially, the legislature wants fewer voters to weigh in on this question.
- There will likely be some unforeseen impact if the amendment passes, due to language that is overly broad in some sections, yet very limiting in others.
As the leading advocate for the Sioux Falls area business community, the Chamber evaluates ballot measures, public policies and legislative bills as they arise. After researching the issue, the volunteer members of the Issues Management Committee may choose to recommend that the Board of Directors adopt an official position. The Board then considers the committee’s recommendation and votes on the Chamber’s position.
The full rationale for the Chamber’s official position on Constitutional Amendment C is outlined in an issue brief. The brief also includes explanation as to how the position aligns with the Chamber’s mission to advance economic health and quality of life for our region.