An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Concerning Ballot Titles Of Proposed Measures; And Amending The Arkansas Constitution Under The Authority Of Arkansas Constitution, Article 5, Section 1.
Impact
The proposed amendment is significant as it seeks to rectify issues identified with previous ballot measures that may have been confusing or misleading to voters. By enforcing clearer standards for ballot titles, SB569 aims to foster an electoral environment where voters can make more informed choices. Moreover, the change aligns with the General Assembly's intent to provide transparency and uphold the integrity of the electoral process in Arkansas.
Summary
Senate Bill 569 aims to amend the Arkansas Constitution, specifically Article 5, Section 1, to establish requirements for the readability and conciseness of ballot titles for proposed measures. It mandates that ballot titles must be clear, concise, and not exceed five hundred words. This change is intended to enhance voter understanding of the measures presented on ballots, thereby ensuring that voters are better informed when making decisions in elections.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB569 center on the potential implications of establishing such standards. Critics may argue that the amendment could lead to excessive regulation of ballot measures, which some perceive as an infringement on the legislative process. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the interpretation and enforcement of 'readability' standards, which could vary subjectively depending on the interpretation of election officials. The balance between ensuring voter clarity and maintaining flexibility for legislative measures remains a key debate in discussions regarding this bill.
To Amend Arkansas Constitution, Article 19, § 14, And Arkansas Law To Provide That Lottery Proceeds May Be Used For Scholarships And Grants To Arkansans Enrolled In Vocational-technical Schools And Technical Institutes.
To Amend The Provisions Of Arkansas Constitution, Amendments 91 And 101, To Provide That Proceeds May Be Applied To Multilane Highway Improvements; And To Declare An Emergency.
A Constitutional Amendment Permitting The State Of Arkansas To Be Sued As A Defendant In State Court To Enforce Constitutional Rights Or As Otherwise Provided By Law.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.