In Arkansas, the People Should Rule.
For too long politicians have chipped away at our constitutional right to direct democracy because they don’t want us to be a policy making body with equal power.
We’re tired of playing defense so we’re going on offense to pass an amendment to save and protect direct democracy.
Our Amendment Will:
PROHIBIT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY FROM CHANGING A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT AND REFERS ALL NEW LAWS AFFECTING THE PROCESS TO THE PEOPLE FOR A VOTE
Our amendment would prohibit the Legislature from changing constitutional amendments initiated and passed by the people and additionally would require that any future laws made by the Legislature don’t take effect until they are approved by a vote of the people at the next General Election.
STREAMLINE AND PROTECT 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 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.
PROTECT 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.
PROHIBIT LEGISLATIVE REFERRED AMENDMENTS CONCERNING DIRECT DEMOCRACY
The proposed amendment explicitly bars the Arkansas general assembly from referring to the people an amendment that would change the initiative and referendum process. Only the people can change the process with an initiated amendment.
SIMPLIFY 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.
Help Us Pass This Amendment
To make this amendment a reality, we need people power. Sign up now to give your time and talents to making democracy stronger in Arkansas.