For Immediate Release: South Dakota Leads Charge for Congressional Term Limits
Pierre, SD — In a bold move towards political reform, Les Chamblee of U.S. Term Limits has announced that Representative Taylor Rae Rehfeldt and Senator Casey Crabtree, both influential figures in the South Dakota legislature, have introduced House Joint Resolution 5002 (HJR5002) championing term limits for Congress. This significant legislative initiative, if passed, would position South Dakota at the forefront of a national effort to institute congressional term limits via a constitutional amendment.
Hailing from District 14, Rep. Rehfeldt, a registered nurse anesthetist with a robust academic background from institutions like South Dakota State University and Mount Marty University, has been a steadfast advocate for responsive governance. Her co-author, Senator Casey Crabtree of District 8, serves as the Majority Leader of the South Dakota Senate and brings a wealth of experience from his role as Director of Economic Development at Heartland Consumer Power District in Madison. Together, they are spearheading what could become a transformative shift in U.S. political culture.
The resolution has garnered enthusiastic backing within the legislature, with co-sponsorship from eleven state representatives, including Aylward, Bathke, Fitzgerald, Jamison, Jordan, Mulder, Peterson, Randolph, Roe, Vasgaard, and Walburg, and six state senators, namely Grove, Jensen, Otten, Reed, Rohl, and Wheeler.
A recent poll by RMG Research reveals a resounding 88% of likely voters in South Dakota support term limits, transcending party lines with robust endorsements from Republicans, Democrats, and independents alike. This overwhelming support lends significant momentum to HJR5002, reflecting South Dakota’s alignment with democratic principles of accountability and representation.
“It’s time for Congress to be accountable to the people they represent,” said U.S. Term Limits President Philip Blumel. “Term limits will help restore trust in our government and ensure that power is returned to the hands of the citizens.” This sentiment echoes throughout South Dakota, a state renowned for its spirit of independence and civic involvement.
South Dakota’s involvement in the push for congressional term limits is noteworthy, aligning with its history of advocating for citizen-led governance. The state has a track record of civic engagement and practical reforms that resonate well beyond its borders. As one of the states potentially leading a call for a national convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution, South Dakota could influence a movement advocating for the reshaping of the congressional landscape.
Casey Crabtree, having been appointed to the Senate by Governor Kristi Noem in 2020 and with experience in legislative sessions including redistricting efforts and critical state issues, stands as a pivotal figure in this initiative. His leadership in the Senate and collaborative efforts with Rep. Rehfeldt epitomize South Dakota’s pragmatic approach to governance.
View full HJR5002 text of proposal here.
As South Dakota prepares to take HJR5002 to committee, its passage could inaugurate the state into a network of states seeking to convene a national convention specifically for proposing an amendment for congressional term limits. Should multiple state legislatures follow suit, the proposal could eventually be ratified as part of the U.S. Constitution, a historic testament to the persistent spirit of reform inherent in South Dakota’s legislative DNA.
The efforts in South Dakota come as part of a nationwide push by U.S. Term Limits, the largest nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated solely to advancing the cause of term limits. Their mission to create a more responsive and reflective citizen-led legislature resonates strongly in South Dakota, where the will and welfare of the citizenry remain paramount.
In conclusion, the introduction of House Joint Resolution 5002 marks a pivotal moment for South Dakota and the nation. With determined legislative action and widespread public support, South Dakota is poised to lead a transformative movement that could redefine the structure of U.S. congressional governance.