Little Rock, Ark. – On March 11, 2025, in an effort to enhance the democratic process in Arkansas and address long-standing concerns surrounding the state’s ballot initiative system, the League of Women Voters of Arkansas, in collaboration with every in-state local league, has submitted to the Attorney General a proposed constitutional amendment and ballot title for approval. The proposed amendment aims to bring vital reforms to the state’s ballot initiative process.
Historically, Arkansas has cherished its tradition of direct democracy, where citizens have the ability to propose, vote on, and enact laws independently of the General Assembly. For instance, some initiatives have faced extended delays and disputes over ballot title approvals, leaving citizens frustrated and their voices unheard. Last minute challenges have taken away the ability to vote on measures after the measure has been certified for the ballot. These events have sparked concerns about the transparency, fairness, and accountability of the initiative process.
Key Highlights of the Proposed Reforms:
- Prohibits the General Assembly from amending an initiated constitutional amendment with a two-thirds vote.
- Streamlines and Protects Ballot Title Approval: Under the proposed amendment, the Attorney General’s office would be required to approve or, if necessary, substitute alternative language for the popular name and ballot title of initiated constitutional amendments and acts. Once approved, there is a 45 day period of time for someone to challenge the popular name or ballot title before the Supreme Court. This process prevents a challenge to the ballot title after signatures have been collected.
- Protects Referendum Rights: The proposal ensures that the name and title for referendums align with those assigned by the General Assembly to the laws they seek to repeal. This process prevents delays in the referendum process.
- Separate Votes on Emergency Clauses: The amendment mandates that separate votes must be taken on bills and their corresponding emergency clauses, with at least 24 hours between the votes. This reinforces the importance of transparency and adequate consideration in the legislative process.
- Prohibits Legislative Referred Amendments: The proposed amendment explicitly bars the Arkansas General Assembly from amending or repealing any constitutional amendment approved by a vote of the people. This significant change ensures that the will of the voters remains intact without interference from the legislature.
- Simplified Signature Collection: Under the proposal, canvassers can submit signatures for ballot measures by signing a declaration under penalty of perjury, eliminating the need for a notary which streamlines the signature collection process.
Bonnie Miller, President of The League of Women Voters of Arkansas, commented on the significance of these proposed reforms, stating, “We believe filing this amendment is prudent because politicians have continually attacked Arkansans’ constitutional right to petition our government. Attempts to weaken and dismantle the first power reserved by the people is an existential threat to democracy in Arkansas. Power belongs in the hands of voters, not politicians and lobbyists.”
This proposal seeks to protect and strengthen the rights of Arkansans to shape their own government through direct democracy, ensuring that their voices are heard and their initiatives are safeguarded from legislative interference.
Next Steps:
Attorney General Tim Griffin will review the submitted ballot title and popular name for the proposed amendment within the next 10 days. If accepted, supporters will need to gather 90,704 voters’ signatures to qualify for the 2026 November ballot.
The League of Women Voters of Arkansas remains committed to promoting civic engagement, voter education, and advocacy for positive change in the state of Arkansas. Our mission is to empower voters, defend democracy, and ensure that every eligible citizen has the opportunity and resources to participate fully in the democratic process.
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