Issues
Open Government
Accessing state records in South Dakota has been historically difficult. As State Senator, Ben has sponsored several pieces of legislation to help remedy this.
- Senate Bill 163 – relating to financial statements filed with the Office of Secretary of State by political party committees.
- Senate Bill 164 – relating to a pre-election campaign financing statement of candidates for legislative office.
- House Bill 1225 – relating to the disclosure of certain information by a state agency investigating or auditing certain private entities.
- House Bill 1238 – relating to pre-election campaign financing statement of candidates for legislative office.
The Secretary of State is responsible for keeping vital state records. As Secretary, Ben will post every document that is not specifically classified, into a searchable data base so that all South Dakotans have access to information about their government.
Customer Service
Government officials must recognize their obligation to serve their clients – the taxpayers of South Dakota. Ben will ensure that the Secretary of State’s office better serves the public by continually exploring innovative approaches, such as utilizing technology to streamline interactions between small business owners and the Secretary’s office.
Voter Access
Every citizen deserves access to the ballot. Whether that is a member of the military stationed overseas, a college student who is attending school out of state, or a rural South Dakotan who lives far from the nearest polling place. Ben will make certain that the state fully implements the Help America Vote Act and that all citizens who have the right to vote and the desire to vote have the opportunity to vote.