The proposed legislation, titled the "Require Examining of Authoritative Documents Act," aims to amend existing laws regarding initiative and referendum petitions in Arkansas. The bill mandates that individuals signing these petitions must read the ballot title in the presence of a canvasser or have it read aloud to them. This requirement is intended to enhance the integrity of the petition process and ensure that signers are fully informed about what they are endorsing. Additionally, the bill introduces a new misdemeanor offense for canvassers who knowingly accept signatures from individuals who have not complied with this reading requirement.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for the verification of signatures on petitions, stipulating that canvassers must affirm that each signer has read or had read to them the ballot title in their presence. The act also contains a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the legislation is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. An emergency clause is included, emphasizing the urgency of implementing these changes to maintain the integrity of the initiative process ahead of the 2026 general election.

Statutes affected:
SB 210: 7-9-103(a), 7-9-103(c)