Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB293

Introduced
2/20/23  
Refer
2/20/23  
Report Pass
2/28/23  
Engrossed
3/6/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Report Pass
3/8/23  
Enrolled
3/14/23  
Chaptered
3/24/23  

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning The Correction Of Errors On Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning Election Procedures; And To Create A Procedure For Candidate Review Of Ballots.

Impact

If passed, SB293 would have substantial implications for how elections are conducted in Arkansas. It requires prompt public acknowledgment of ballot errors by election boards and mandates corrections based on specific criteria. Additionally, the bill introduces procedures for issuing special error correction ballots, allowing affected voters to participate in deciding on omitted races or issues. This could lead to more transparent election practices and bolster public confidence in the state’s election integrity.

Summary

Senate Bill 293 aims to amend current laws regarding the correction of errors on ballots and the procedures surrounding election processes in Arkansas. This bill introduces protocols for county election boards to follow when a ballot error is identified, particularly concerning the omission or misrepresentation of candidates or issues on a ballot. It establishes a framework for swiftly correcting these errors and ensures that voters are notified accordingly, thereby seeking to enhance the accuracy and integrity of the electoral process.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB293 appears to be positive among its proponents, who argue that it enhances election transparency and provides a structured method for addressing errors. Supporters are likely to view this bill as a safeguard for voters' rights, ensuring that all eligible voters can cast their ballots accurately. However, the bill may also draw criticism from those concerned about the potential bureaucratic burden it could place on election officials or arguments regarding the implications for voter privacy and data management.

Contention

Debate over SB293 may highlight concerns regarding its implementation and the logistics involved in correcting ballot errors. Some critics might argue that the bill could lead to confusion during elections if not managed appropriately, particularly regarding the communication of errors to voters. Furthermore, there may be questions about the proper handling of special error correction ballots and how these ballots are counted to ensure equity in voting outcomes. Addressing these concerns will be crucial to the bill's acceptance and effectiveness.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1013

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Correction Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1014

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Community Correction Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB80

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1097

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1084

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Community Correction Reappropriation.

AR HB1085

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Correction Reappropriation.

AR HB1086

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Correction Supplemental Appropriation.

AR SR2

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill Amending The Revenue Stabilization Law, Creating Funds, Repealing Funds, And Making Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR HR1011

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill Amending The Revenue Stabilization Law, Creating Funds, Repealing Funds, And Making Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR HR1010

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law, To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

Similar Bills

IL HB2800

ELEC CD-PROVISIONAL BALLOTS

LA HB354

Provides for the use of provisional ballots in all elections (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

NJ S2443

Requires issuance of temporary emergency medical services certifications.

NJ S1743

Requires issuance of temporary emergency medical services certifications.

AR HB1487

To Create The Ballot Security Act Of 2023; And To Amend Election Law Concerning The Handling Of Election Ballots.

NJ A5701

Allows voter registration at polling place on election day or at early voting site during early voting period.

NJ S1193

Allows voter registration at polling place on election day or at early voting site during early voting period.

NJ A925

Allows voter registration at polling place on election day or at early voting site during early voting period.