FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SIOUX FALLS, SD, October 12, 2016 – Today, Bishop Zellmer and the South Dakota Synod sent a formal request to Governor Dennis Daugaard advocating for Initiated Measure 21, which would put a 36% APR limit on payday loans, car title loans, and installment loans. Initiated Measure 21 is one of two ballot initiatives related to predatory lending in South Dakota in the upcoming November election. Amendment U, which the South Dakota Synod opposes, would change the State Constitution to allow unlimited interest and fees on these types of loans.
At the last statewide gathering of church leaders in June, the South Dakota Synod passed a resolution that congregations and leaders would advocate support for Initiated Measure 21 and oppose adoption of Amendment U. As we come closer to Election Day, the South Dakota Synod and its congregations urge all citizens to become informed and to see ELCA congregations as trusted agents for information on these important Issues.
“Responsible lending is a moral issue,” noted the letter to Governor Daugaard. “We are called to love our neighbors and keep them from harm, instead of taking advantage of the poor through excessive interest rates and financial arrangements.”
For photo opportunities or interviews contact Sawyer Vanden Heuvel, Director of Communications for the South Dakota Synod, at the contact information below.
Please see copy of the letter sent to Governor Daugaard, a copy of the resolution, and a statement from Faith in Public Life leaders in South Dakota by .
About the South Dakota Synod, ELCA
The South Dakota Synod is one of the 65 synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. For more information, visit www.sdsynod.org.
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Contact:
Sawyer Vanden Heuvel, Director of Communications
South Dakota Synod, ELCA
605-274-5035
svandenheuvel@sdsynod.org
