The Arkansas Government Disclosure Amendment proposes to amend the state constitution to enhance government transparency and ensure that public business is conducted openly. It emphasizes the right of Arkansas citizens to access information regarding the actions and decisions of public officials, thereby promoting accountability in government. The amendment outlines the procedures for enacting laws related to government transparency, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate before such laws can be referred to the electorate for approval. Additionally, it allows for emergency measures to be enacted under specific conditions, ensuring that urgent transparency laws can take effect immediately if necessary.
Furthermore, the amendment establishes that the state can be held accountable in court for failing to comply with transparency requirements, and it allows prevailing citizens to recover attorney fees in such cases. It also includes provisions that nullify any conflicting laws or constitutional provisions while maintaining the powers of the Supreme Court and General Assembly regarding legislative openness. The amendment is set to take effect on November 4, 2026, and will be presented to voters under the title "Arkansas Government Disclosure Amendment."