Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SJR1

Introduced
11/15/24  
Refer
1/13/25  

Caption

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution To Require A Vote Of Three-fourths Of Each House Of The General Assembly To Enact, Amend, Or Repeal Laws Concerning Access To Public Records Or Access To Public Meetings.

Impact

The implementation of SJR1 could significantly restructure how certain legislative decisions are made, potentially speeding up the legislative process while ensuring that the state's operational framework aligns with current governance needs. It may introduce new protocols for decision-making at the legislative level, which could streamline processes that have previously been deemed cumbersome. However, the long-term impacts on state agencies and their ability to respond effectively to public needs may depend on the specific changes outlined in the resolution.

Summary

SJR1, also known as Senate Joint Resolution 1, is a legislative proposal aimed at addressing specific procedural changes within the state's governance framework. As a joint resolution, it requires approval from both chambers of the legislature but does not require the governor's approval, allowing it to proceed to the ballot. The resolution focuses on modifying certain protocols that can affect the legislative process and the functionality of state agencies. Proponents of SJR1 argue that these changes will enhance transparency and accountability within the state's legislative actions.

Contention

Throughout discussions surrounding SJR1, various points of contention emerged. Some legislators raised concerns that the proposed changes might inadvertently limit public input or oversight in legislative processes. Critics worry that while the resolution aims to expedite legislative procedures, it could lead to decisions that lack adequate public scrutiny or debate. This potential reduction in transparency raised alarms among advocacy groups, with some calling for amendments to ensure continued public engagement in the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HJR1011

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Concerning Constitutional Amendments Considered By Electors At A General Election.

AR SJR1

A Constitutional Amendment To Amend Constitutional Provisions Concerning Apportionment; And To Create The Arkansas Apportionment Commission.

AR SJR4

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Requiring The General Assembly To Establish By Law A Revised Election Process.

AR HJR1012

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Providing That The General Assembly May Enact Laws Exempting Property From Taxation.

AR HJR1002

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Concerning The Taxation Of Personal Property And Real Property In The State Of Arkansas.

AR SJR19

A Constitutional Amendment Concerning The Requirements For Passage Of Initiated Acts And Constitutional Amendments Referred To Voters.

AR HJR1005

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution To Create The "arkansas Taxpayer Bill Of Rights".

AR HJR1008

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution To Create The Protect Arkansas Healthcare Amendment.

AR SJR6

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.

AR HJR1001

A Constitutional Amendment Concerning The Salaries Of Elected Constitutional Officers Of The Executive Department, Members Of The General Assembly, Supreme Court Justices, Court Of Appeals Judges, And Prosecuting Attorneys.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.