To Create The Ballot Draw Standardization Act Of 2025.
Impact
The legislation is poised to impact state election laws by creating a uniform method for selecting the order of candidates on the ballot. This standardization effort is designed to foster transparency and consistency across elections throughout Arkansas. By mandating public meetings for the drawing and outlining clear protocols for candidates to participate in the draws, the bill seeks to instill greater confidence in the electoral process. Additionally, it appears to reduce potential biases or inconsistencies that could arise from varying practices in different counties.
Summary
House Bill 1070, known as the Ballot Draw Standardization Act of 2025, aims to amend existing Arkansas law regarding the procedure for determining the order in which candidates’ names appear on election ballots. The bill specifies that the draw for ballot positions will occur at a public meeting of the county board of election commissioners at least 72 days prior to the general election. Candidates or their designees will have the opportunity to draw lots that will ultimately determine their position on the ballot, ensuring a fair and standardized process across the state.
Contention
Discussions surrounding HB 1070 indicate that while most stakeholders recognize the importance of a standardized ballot draw, there are concerns about the implementation details. Some legislators and advocacy groups worry about the accessibility of the drawing meetings and whether candidates will have adequate notice and opportunity to participate. Others have raised questions about how the bill ensures fairness, particularly in situations where candidates are unable to attend the draw. These points of contention highlight the need for careful consideration of logistics and inclusivity in the electoral process.
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.
To Create The Arkansas Absentee Voter Integrity Act Of 2023; To Amend The Law Concerning Counting Absentee Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning Elections; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Duties Of The Secretary Of State.
Concerning Paper Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning Paper Ballots And The Marking And Counting Of Paper Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning The Declaration Of Election Results; And To Declare An Emergency.
To Amend The Law Concerning Nonpartisan Elections; To Amend The Law Concerning Local School Boards Of Directors And School Board Elections; And To Amend The Date On Which An Election Of A School District Board Of Directors Is Held.
To Amend The Law Concerning Nonpartisan Elections; To Amend The Law Concerning Local School Boards Of Directors And School Board Elections; And To Amend The Date On Which An Election Of A School District Board Of Directors Is Held.
To Amend The Law Concerning Members Of Local School Boards Of Directors; To Amend The Law Concerning School Elections; And To Amend The Date On Which An Election Of A School District Board Of Directors Shall Be Held.
To Establish The Arkansas Poll Watchers Bill Of Rights Act Of 2023; To Amend The Law Concerning Poll Watchers; And To Amend The Law Concerning Election Procedures.