The South Dakota Senate convened on February 5, 2025, for Day 14 of its session, where significant discussions centered around the use of electronic voting systems and vote centers. The meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 102, which seeks to address concerns regarding the security and reliability of electronic poll books used in vote centers.

Senator Pischke opened the discussion by highlighting the vulnerabilities associated with electronic voting systems, particularly the e-poll pads, which he described as "glorified iPads" that are not certified by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. He raised alarms about their susceptibility to hacking, citing multiple data breaches involving Verizon, the service provider for these systems. Pischke emphasized that past experiences in South Dakota, including a statewide outage during the 2024 elections, demonstrated the risks of relying solely on electronic systems.

In contrast, several senators defended the use of vote centers, arguing that they enhance voter convenience and accessibility. Senator Melhoff pointed out that counties like Hawkin and Hughes have successfully implemented vote centers, resulting in high voter turnout. He argued that local control should dictate the election process, allowing counties to choose the best method for their constituents.

The debate also touched on constitutional concerns, with Pischke asserting that vote centers could violate the principle that voters should cast ballots within their precincts. However, other senators, including Senator Reid, questioned the interpretation of the constitutionality of vote centers, suggesting that the flexibility of voting locations could be beneficial.

As the discussion progressed, senators expressed differing opinions on the effectiveness of electronic systems versus traditional paper ballots. Some senators, like Senator Carly, voiced a preference for local precinct voting, citing the familiarity and security of traditional methods. Others, like Senator Duhamel, argued that electronic poll books are essential for preventing double voting and ensuring election integrity.

The meeting concluded with a call for a vote on Senate Bill 103, which aims to restrict the use of vote centers. Senators were urged to consider the implications of removing local control over voting methods and the potential impact on voter turnout and accessibility.

Overall, the session highlighted a deep divide among senators regarding the future of voting in South Dakota, with strong arguments presented for both the preservation of traditional precinct voting and the continued use of modern vote centers. The outcome of the vote on Senate Bill 103 remains to be seen, as the legislature grapples with balancing security, convenience, and constitutional principles in the electoral process.