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Election Law Changes To Go Before SD Voters In 2016 Election

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — The secretary of state’s office says activists working to defeat a package of legislatively passed election-law changes at the ballot box have turned in enough valid signatures to put the measure before voters in the 2016 election.

The office announced late Monday that sampling showed nearly 14,200 valid signatures, a few hundred more than required. Since organizers secured enough support to put the law to voters, it won’t go into effect on July 1.

Opponents of the election law changes, which include changing filing deadlines and signature gathering requirements, say they make it harder for candidates to run. Activists argue the changes are especially difficult for smaller parties.

The office is reviewing signatures from opponents of a $7.50 youth minimum wage. The office plans to finish before midnight Tuesday.