SOuth Dakota 4-H Legislature Program
The South Dakota 4-H Legislature Program is a state level civic and governmental education program allowing participants an opportunity to gain a better understanding of how our state government operates while strengthening youth voice opportunities.
​Teen participants have an opportunity to run a campaign, serve as a 4-H Legislator, draft bills, debate bills at the South Dakota Capitol building, and more!
Candidates/Legislators
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Enrolled senior age division 4-H members
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Interested in Civic Engagement and Leadership project areas Description
Description
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4-H members age 14-18 interested in representing their county 4-H members during the South Dakota 4-H (SD 4-H) Legislature will have the opportunity to run for office and write legislation regarding SD 4-H policies, procedures, programs and initiatives. These individuals will debate policy and cast a vote on the floor of the SD House or Senate, sitting in the same seats that our state lawmakers sit in. Additionally, they will dedicate time to learning and understanding the process of how a bill becomes law in SD.
Duties
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Collect petition signatures
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Conduct a campaign
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Write bills
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Represent county 4-H members perspectives and views
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Advocate for and debate bills
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Offer amendments to proposed bills and vote on potential policy changes/adoptions
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Constituents
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All enrolled South Dakota 4-H members
Description
Just like real life civics, South Dakota 4-H members will be involved in the process from state to finish. As an enrolled member, you get a say in how your 4-H program is run and who best represents the interests from your county.
Duties
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Sign nominating petitions
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Vote for candidate of choice
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Encourage others to vote for candidate of choice by assisting candidate with campaign
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Lobby Legislators
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Attend and observe the mock legislative session