Arkansas House Bill HB1513

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Report Pass: 3/8/23
• Refer: 3/13/23
• Report Pass: 3/29/23
• Engrossed: 4/3/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Report Pass: 4/4/23
• Enrolled: 4/6/23
• Chaptered: 4/11/23
• Passed: 4/11/23

Caption

To Create The Election Integrity Unit Within The Attorney General's Office; To Amend The Duties Of The State Board Of Election Commissioners; And To Amend The Law Concerning Violations Of Election Law.

Impact

The enactment of HB1513 will significantly alter the landscape of election oversight in Arkansas. By creating a dedicated unit tasked with investigating election-related complaints, the bill empowers the Attorney General to act more decisively against potential violations. This not only includes forwarding complaints for criminal prosecution but also putting mechanisms in place for real-time access to complaints data. The overarching goal is to strengthen public confidence in electoral integrity while ensuring that violations are handled promptly and efficiently.

Summary

House Bill 1513, known as the 'Election Integrity Unit Act of 2023', establishes an Election Integrity Unit within the Arkansas Attorney General's office. The primary purpose of this unit is to enhance the enforcement of election laws and tackle violations concerning voter registration and elections. This legislation amends the duties of the State Board of Election Commissioners and introduces a systematic approach to address complaints and irregularities in election processes. It aims to streamline oversight and maintain an Arkansas Election Integrity Database where all complaints and investigations are tracked.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1513 appears to be supportive among certain legislative circles, particularly from those advocating for stricter election law enforcement to prevent fraud and abuse. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for overreach and the unit's impact on voter participation, especially among marginalized communities who might feel threatened by increased scrutiny. The discussion reflects an intense debate balancing election security with access.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1513 include fears that it could lead to disproportionate consequences for voters and election workers. Critics argue that the procedures for monitoring could deter individuals from reporting alleged violations due to the fear of legal repercussions. Additionally, there are concerns about the resource allocation for investigations and the implications of a centralized database on voter privacy. As the bill progresses, these issues will likely continue to provoke discussion among lawmakers and constituents.