The bill amends the law regarding initiative and referendum petitions in Arkansas by introducing new requirements for canvassers. Specifically, it mandates that canvassers must submit a true affidavit to the Secretary of State certifying their compliance with relevant laws concerning canvassing, perjury, forgery, and fraudulent practices before any signatures they collect can be counted. Additionally, the bill stipulates that signatures gathered by canvassers who fail to submit this affidavit will not be counted. However, it provides an exception for canvassers who are unable to submit an affidavit due to death or medical disability, ensuring that the signatures they collected are not disqualified.

Furthermore, the bill includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be effective. It also declares an emergency, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the initiative process for the upcoming 2026 general election, and states that the act will take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or after the expiration of the veto period.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB211 V2 - 2-19-2025 10:46 AM: 7-9-111, 7-9-126(c)
Old version SB211 Original - 2-6-2025 10:28 AM: 7-9-111, 7-9-126(c)
SB 211: 7-9-111, 7-9-126(c)
Act 241: 7-9-111, 7-9-126(c)