Blogger wants to roll back initiated measure restrictions

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – A South Dakota blogger is circulating petitions that seek to roll back changes that state lawmakers have made to the initiated measure process.

Cory Heidelberger says his “People Power Petitions” would eliminate bureaucratic roadblocks that are being thrown up to make it harder for citizens to have a say in their laws.

One petition is for a referendum on House Bill 1094, which created a state registry of petition circulators and requires them to wear badges. The other is for an initiated measure to eliminate restrictions, including one that requires circulators to file affidavits with the state.

Heidelberg says the initiated measure process gives all South Dakotans an equal ability to propose laws.

Supporters of House Bill 1094 say it brings transparency to the initiated measure process.

AP-WF-06-18-19