The bill amends Arkansas law regarding paid canvassers by establishing new residency requirements. Specifically, it stipulates that individuals must be residents and domiciled in Arkansas to act as paid canvassers for statewide initiative or referendum petitions. The bill adds provisions that prohibit sponsors or their agents from knowingly hiring non-residents or those not domiciled in the state for these roles. Violators of this requirement face a fine of $2,500 for each instance of hiring a non-compliant canvasser.

Additionally, the bill includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. It also references a Supreme Court interpretation of domicile, emphasizing the necessity of both actual residence and the intent to remain in a specific location. This legislative change aims to strengthen the integrity of the petition process in Arkansas by ensuring that paid canvassers have a legitimate connection to the state.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1574 Original - 2-25-2025 09:44 AM: 7-9-103(a), 7-9-103(d)
Old version HB1574 V2 - 3-10-2025 11:19 AM: 7-9-103(a), 7-9-103(d)
HB 1574: 7-9-103(a), 7-9-103(d)
Act 453: 7-9-103(a), 7-9-103(d)