The bill amends the definition of "paid canvasser" in Arkansas law to clarify the conditions under which a person is considered a paid canvasser for local option elections, initiatives, and referenda. The new definition specifies that a paid canvasser is someone who, in exchange for soliciting or obtaining a signature on a petition, is either paid or has an agreement to receive payment or anything of value. Additionally, the bill introduces a broader range of what constitutes "items of value," which includes payments for food, lodging, travel expenses, reimbursements, bonuses, stipends, allowances, fees, gratuities, awards, gift cards, and other related payments.

The amendments also replace the previous language that simply stated a person "is" a paid canvasser with the phrase "is paid or with whom there is an agreement to pay," thereby emphasizing the transactional nature of the relationship. This change aims to provide clearer guidelines for the hiring and training of paid canvassers, ensuring that all forms of compensation are accounted for in the definition. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance transparency and regulation surrounding the activities of paid canvassers in the electoral process.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1714 V2 - 4-2-2025 11:22 AM: 3-8-801(3), 7-9-601(c)
Old version HB1714 Original - 3-10-2025 01:07 PM: 3-8-801(3), 7-9-601(c)
HB 1714: 3-8-801(3), 7-9-601(c)