South Dakota § 12-16-2 - Paper and printing specifications--Columns for parties and independent candidates--Automatic tabulating systems.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-16-2 — Paper and printing specifications--Columns for parties and independent candidates--Automatic tabulating systems., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-16-2. Paper and printing specifications--Columns for parties and independent candidates--Automatic tabulating systems.
All official ballots shall be printed on good quality bond paper, in black ink, and in the English language. The names of candidates for each office shall be printed in large type under the designation of the party for which the nomination is made, so that all the names of candidates for each party are in separate columns, the names of candidates for each office are directly opposite each other, and the names of all independent candidates occupy a separate column under the heading, independent candidates. In precincts using automatic tabulating systems, the ballot information, whether placed on the ballot or on the marking device, shall, as far as practicable, be in the order or arrangement provided for paper ballots except that such information may be in vertical or horizontal rows, or on a number of separate pages. No individual race or ballot question may be divided between pages. One ballot card may be used for recording a voter's vote on all races and measures.
Source: SDC 1939, § 16.1105 (1); SL 1974, ch 118, § 70; SL 1977, ch 109, § 2; SL 1994, ch 110, § 1; SL 1997, ch 81, § 1; SL 2007, ch 76, § 3.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 12-16-2
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-16-2 cover?
Section 12-16-2 ("Paper and printing specifications--Columns for parties and independent candidates--Automatic tabulating systems.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Dakota § 12-16-2?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-16-2" (South Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.
How does South Dakota § 12-16-2 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.