This is a ceremonial resolution that recognizes July 4, 2026, as the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and encourages South Dakotans to reflect on the nation's founding principles and achievements. The resolution does not change any state laws—it is simply an official statement from the House of Representatives celebrating this milestone and calling for education and civic reflection during the anniversary year.
AI-generated summary
This bill does not directly amend codified state law.
The amendment removed references to indigenous nations and civil rights advocates while replacing "democracy" with "natural rights" and adding "ordered liberty," shifting the resolution's framing of American history away from recognizing diverse contributions to independence toward emphasizing founding principles rooted in natural rights philosophy. This NARROWS the resolution's scope by downplaying the historical roles of Native Americans and civil rights movements in building the nation.
This change converts the resolution from its engrossed form to its enrolled/final form by removing the markup indicators (line numbers and editing notes) and adding signature blocks showing the House adopted it on January 15, 2026. The substantive content of the resolution remains unchanged—it continues to recognize the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
House of Representatives Adopt Resolution as amended Passed, YEAS 62, NAYS 5. H.J. 35
House of Representatives Motion to amend H.J. 35
First read in House and referral to committee waived pursuant to JR 6D-1 H.J. 23
Prime sponsor · Rep.
D
Cosponsors
Adopt Resolution as amended