South Dakota Catholic Bishops Support Amendment L
The bishops announced their endorsement of a measure to raise the voting threshold for constitutional changes in the state.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Catholicism
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South Dakota Catholic bishops have issued a joint statement backing Amendment L, which seeks to require a 60 percent supermajority for future state constitutional amendments. This proposal aims to replace the current requirement of a simple majority for such changes.
Why it matters
The bishops argue that the measure will serve as a necessary safeguard for minority rights and act as a check against narrow majorities. They also expressed concern over the growing influence of out-of-state interest groups in local constitutional matters.
Amendment L proposes a 60 percent voter approval threshold for all future state constitutional changes. This figure is a departure from the current law, which allows constitutional amendments to pass with a simple majority.
The players
South Dakota Catholic bishops
These religious leaders represent the Catholic Church hierarchy in the state and provide guidance on public policy issues.
The details
In their public statement, the Catholic bishops highlighted the goal of protecting South Dakota's constitution from external influences. The group emphasized that requiring a higher threshold provides structural stability for the state's governing document.
Timeline
November 3, 2026: South Dakota voters decide on Amendment L
Culture Shift
This move highlights a broader debate over how states balance the ease of direct democracy with the protection of minority interests. It reflects a growing effort to curb the influence of outside funding on local constitutional processes.
If passed, the measure will change the daily reality of how citizens advocate for and achieve constitutional reform in the state. Voters will need to consider the practical effect of this higher approval bar on future ballot initiatives.
The takeaway
The bishops' endorsement frames the amendment as a defensive measure intended to protect the state's legal framework from outside interests. Residents should carefully review the specific impact of a 60 percent threshold before heading to the polls.
What happens next
South Dakota voters will cast their ballots regarding Amendment L on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the influence of faith-based organizations on state policy at the South Dakota Catholicism page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NEWS RADIO KOTA-AM 1380AM/100.7FM.
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