Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HJR1010

Introduced
2/10/25  
Refer
2/10/25  

Caption

A Constitutional Amendment To Provide That By A Two-thirds Vote, The Senate May Remove Members Of Certain Boards And Commissions For Cause Only, After Notice And Hearing.

Impact

The HJR1010 amendment would significantly revise the existing removal procedures outlined in the Arkansas Constitution. Currently, the Governor holds the authority to remove board members; this amendment would add a layer of Senate involvement, allowing for broader legislative input in these decisions. The amendment would not supplant existing removal authority but serve as a supplementary method, likely resulting in a more thorough review process when assessing the conduct of board members. This could lead to increased scrutiny and ensure that board members' actions align with the public interest.

Summary

HJR1010 proposes an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution that allows the Senate to remove members of certain boards and commissions for cause only, requiring a two-thirds majority vote after notice and hearing. This amendment aims to enhance the Senate's oversight and accountability in managing appointed members who serve on various commission boards, thereby increasing legislative control over executive appointments. The proposed changes intend to provide a structured process that balances the powers of both the legislative and executive branches in Arkansas.

Contention

There may be notable contention surrounding this amendment, with potential pushback from stakeholders who may view the Senate's power to remove members as an encroachment on the Governor's executive powers. Critics might argue that this could lead to political maneuvering rather than promoting accountability, while supporters would assert that it fortifies the democratic process by allowing elected officials to maintain oversight of appointed positions. Debate is likely to focus on the balance of power between the Senate and the Governor's office, as well as the implications for governance and public trust in state institutions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SJR15

A Constitutional Amendment Concerning The Membership Of The State Highway Commission.

AR SB319

To Change The Name Of The Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board; To Make Corresponding Technical Changes; To Clarify Board Membership And Succession; And To Permit Renewal Notices To Be Sent By Electronic Mail.

AR SB403

To Consolidate Agriculture Boards And Commissions; To Abolish Certain Boards Within The Department Of Agriculture; To Transfer The Duties Of Certain Boards Within The Department Of Agriculture; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SJR11

A Constitutional Amendment Creating The Board Of Pardons For The Purpose Of Granting Pardons After Convictions.

AR SJR1

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

AR SJR2

A Constitutional Amendment To Create A Procedure For The Recall Of Certain Elected Officials.

AR HJR1003

A Constitutional Amendment To Create A Procedure For The Recall Of Certain Elected Officials.

AR SB356

To Abolish Inactive State Entities; To Amend The Law Concerning The Reporting Of Boards And Commissions; And To Declare An Emergency.

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.

AR SB496

To Amend The Duties And Membership Of The Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board; To Abolish The State Fire Prevention Commission; And To Declare An Emergency.

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Voting thresholds.