The bill amends existing laws regarding the filing of original drafts for initiative and referendum petitions in Arkansas. It introduces a requirement that ballot titles for initiated measures must be written at or below an eighth-grade reading level, as determined by the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level formula. If the Attorney General rejects a proposed ballot title for exceeding this reading level, they are mandated to provide reasons for the rejection and instruct petitioners on how to revise the title to comply with the new standard.

Additionally, the bill includes legislative findings that emphasize the importance of protecting the integrity of the initiative and referendum processes, as well as safeguarding voters from misleading or unlawful measures. It declares an emergency, stating that immediate action is necessary to ensure clarity and consistency in the approval process for initiatives and referenda, thereby preserving public peace, health, and safety. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor or after the expiration of the veto period if not acted upon.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1713 V2 - 3-17-2025 11:23 AM: 7-9-107
Old version HB1713 Original - 3-10-2025 01:05 PM: 7-9-107
HB 1713: 7-9-107
Act 602: 7-9-107