Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB423

Introduced
3/14/23  
Refer
3/14/23  

Caption

Concerning The Filing Fees Of A Candidate Seeking Nomination By A Political Party; And To Establish A Range For Political Party Filing Fees.

Impact

The legislation is expected to standardize the process and make it more transparent regarding how political parties can impose fees on their candidates. By establishing these parameters, the bill aims to reduce confusion among candidates about the costs associated with running for office and ensure a degree of uniformity across different political parties. This could lead to lower barriers for entry for potential candidates who may have felt daunted by varying fees and requirements across parties.

Summary

Senate Bill 423 focuses on the filing fees required for candidates seeking nomination by political parties in Arkansas. The bill establishes a framework whereby political parties can impose fees for nomination, setting those fees based on a percentage of the salary of the office for which candidates are contesting. Specifically, it allows fees for candidates running for U.S. Senate and House seats, as well as state offices, to be fixed at a maximum of 5% of the respective office's salary. For district offices such as State Representative and State Senator, a maximum of 3% can be charged.

Conclusion

In summary, SB423 represents an important legislative effort to clarify and regulate the nomination process for political candidates in Arkansas by addressing the filing fees associated with it. While it may facilitate a more straightforward approach for candidates, it remains to be seen whether the measures will effectively promote inclusivity and fairness in the electoral landscape.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB423 may arise from concerns over the fairness of requiring filing fees at all, especially among candidates from lower-income backgrounds. Critics may argue that such fees can pose significant barriers to entry for these candidates, thereby impacting the overall diversity and accessibility of the electoral process. Additionally, the discretion given to political parties to set their fees raises questions about potential disparities and inequities in how different parties may approach candidate funding.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR5

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR HR1009

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

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 SB47

An Act For The Department Of Inspector General Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1013

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Correction Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1065

An Act For The Department Of Finance And Administration - Disbursing Officer Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1074

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Secretary's Office Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB37

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB60

An Act For The Department Of Education Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

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