Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB254

Introduced
2/13/23  
Refer
2/13/23  
Report Pass
2/21/23  
Engrossed
2/22/23  
Refer
2/22/23  
Report Pass
3/8/23  
Enrolled
3/15/23  
Chaptered
3/24/23  

Caption

An Act To Eliminate Write-in Candidates In Elections; To Amend Election Procedures; And To Amend The Law Concerning Election.

Impact

The implications of SB254 are significant for the electoral landscape in Arkansas, as it deregulates the write-in process while tightening the criteria for candidates wishing to run as write-ins. This shift has the potential to streamline voting procedures but could also disenfranchise candidates who may not meet the stringent requirements or who rely on write-in opportunities to present alternative choices to the electorate. Opponents of the bill argue that eliminating write-in votes restricts democratic participation and reduces voter choice in elections.

Summary

Senate Bill 254 is an act aimed at eliminating write-in candidates in elections and amending the related election procedures in the State of Arkansas. The bill proposes several changes to candidate filing laws, particularly focusing on the requirements and processes surrounding write-in candidacies. Under this bill, any vote cast for a write-in candidate will not be considered unless the candidate has met predefined filing requirements, including submitting a notice of intention and other documentation well ahead of election day. Essentially, this act seeks to simplify the ballot process and address concerns over improperly counted votes for write-in candidates.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around SB254 appears to be mixed, with supporters arguing that eliminating write-ins can help to create a clearer voting process and reduce confusion in elections. However, critics express concern that this move undermines the spirit of democracy by limiting choices available to voters. The debate has highlighted the tension between maintaining orderly election processes and ensuring that all potential candidates have fair access to the ballot, reflecting deep-seated divisions over electoral reform in Arkansas.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding SB254 include concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement, particularly among those who wish to express support for non-traditional candidates via write-in votes. Many argue that the updates to election procedures directly contravene values of inclusivity and representation, particularly important in local elections where write-in candidates can often reflect community voices that mainstream candidates overlook. These discussions have also emphasized the importance of balancing administrative efficiency with fundamental democratic principles.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1051

An Act For The State Board Of Election Commissioners Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SR10

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act.

AR HR1013

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB77

To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act; 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 SR16

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Amend The Requirements For A Digital Asset Mining Business Or Business Using A Blockchain Network.

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.

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