To Create The Arkansas Absentee Voter Integrity Act Of 2025; 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.
Impact
The bill aims to tighten the regulations around absentee voting, introducing measures to ensure greater accountability and transparency in the election process. By specifying that absentee ballots must not be counted before 8:30 a.m. on election day and requiring elected officials to conform to strict procedures for opening and verifying ballots, the legislation seeks to mitigate the risks of ballot fraud and enhance public trust in the electoral system.
Summary
Senate Bill 247, titled the Arkansas Absentee Voter Integrity Act of 2025, is designed to enhance the procedures surrounding absentee voting in Arkansas. It specifically amends existing laws that govern the counting of absentee ballots and the responsibilities of election officials and the Secretary of State. A significant aspect of this bill is the establishment of clear processes for opening, processing, and counting absentee ballots, which includes requiring public access during the counting process and mandating timely notifications to voters regarding their absentee ballot status.
Contention
Notably, while proponents argue that SB247 is a necessary step towards preserving election integrity and safeguarding the voting process from potential fraud, opponents raise concerns about potential voter suppression. They worry that stricter requirements for identifying voters and the processes surrounding absentee ballots could disproportionately impact certain groups, particularly those who may find it challenging to comply with the new mandates. This contention reflects a broader national debate on voting rights and election security.
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.
To Amend The Law Concerning Paper Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning Marking And Counting Paper Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning The Declaration Of Election Results; And To Declare An Emergency.
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.
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 The Correction Of Errors On Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning Election Procedures; And To Create A Procedure For Candidate Review Of Ballots.
To Clarify, Create Uniformity In, And Simplify The Absentee Ballot Process; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Application Form And Materials Furnished To Qualified Voters With An Absentee Ballot.
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.