The bill amends the law regarding the scheduling of annual school elections in Arkansas, specifically addressing instances when these elections coincide with state holidays. It stipulates that in odd-numbered years, the annual school election will typically be held on the second Tuesday of November or the second Tuesday of May. However, if the second Tuesday of November falls on a state holiday, the election will be rescheduled to the third Tuesday of that month. This change aims to enhance voter participation by ensuring that elections do not occur on days when many voters may be unable to cast their ballots.

Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause, emphasizing the importance of adequate voter participation for the preservation of public peace, health, and safety. It asserts that holding elections on state holidays could lead to results that do not accurately reflect the will of the voters. The act is designed to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or under specific conditions if the Governor does not act on the bill.

Statutes affected:
SB 292: 6-14-102(a)
Act 264: 6-14-102(a)