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SJR 20

A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT CONCERNING THE VOTE REQUIREMENTS FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS TO BE CONSIDERED APPROVED AT THE GENERAL ELECTION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bryan King

SJR 20 aimed to lower the voter approval threshold for constitutional amendments in Arkansas to a simple majority, impacting future governance and policy changes.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · SJR 20

Summary of SJR 20: Constitutional Amendment on Vote Requirements for Constitutional Amendments

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: SJR 20
- Title: A Constitutional Amendment Concerning the Vote Requirements for Constitutional Amendments to be Considered Approved at the General Election
- Status: Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment
- Introduced: February 12, 2025
- Classification: Joint Resolution

Purpose and Intent

SJR 20 aimed to propose an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution that would modify the vote requirements necessary for constitutional amendments to be considered approved during general elections. The intent behind this resolution was to clarify and potentially adjust the threshold of voter approval needed for such amendments.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment Proposal: The resolution sought to amend the existing language in the Arkansas Constitution regarding the voting requirements for constitutional amendments.
  • Majority Vote Requirement: If adopted, the amendment would establish that a majority of electors voting on the amendment at the general election would be sufficient for the amendment to be considered approved.

Impact

  • Electors: The proposed change would directly affect Arkansas voters by potentially lowering the threshold for approving constitutional amendments. This could lead to more amendments being passed in future elections, thereby influencing state governance and policy.
  • Legislative Process: The resolution was introduced by Senator B. King and was subject to the legislative process, including readings and committee referrals. However, it ultimately did not progress beyond the Senate Committee stage.

Procedural Aspects

  • Timeline:
    • February 12, 2025: The bill was filed and read for the first time. The rules were suspended to allow for a second reading, after which it was referred to the Senate Committee on State Agencies & Governmental Affairs.
    • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not advance to a vote or further consideration.

Conclusion

SJR 20 represented an effort to amend the Arkansas Constitution regarding the approval process for constitutional amendments. While it aimed to simplify the voting requirements, the bill did not progress through the legislative process and ultimately did not become law.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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