This bill amends existing laws regarding campaign contributions and expenditures by requiring candidates for school district, township, municipal, and county offices to file their reports with the Secretary of State instead of the county clerk. The new provisions mandate that these reports be submitted electronically through the Secretary of State's official website, with a focus on transparency and accessibility. The Secretary of State will maintain these records for eight years, after which they will be transferred to the Arkansas State Archives for continued public inspection. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the electronic filing system will aggregate contributions to ensure compliance with campaign contribution limits.

The bill also includes an emergency clause, emphasizing the importance of transparency in election contributions for the public's peace, health, and safety. It asserts that the act should take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or under specific conditions if not vetoed. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the integrity of the electoral process by improving the reporting and accessibility of campaign finance information.

Statutes affected:
HB 1707: 7-6-208(c), 7-6-209(c)
Act 524: 7-6-208(c), 7-6-209(c)