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HJR 1013

A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE THAT CERTAIN VACANCIES SHALL BE FILLED BY APPOINTMENT BY THE GOVERNOR.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Aaron Pilkington

HJR 1013 sought to let the Governor appoint replacements for vacancies in various elected offices, aiming for quicker, more stable governance in Arkansas.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HJR 1013

Summary of HJR 1013 - A Constitutional Amendment on Filling Vacancies

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HJR 1013
  • Title: A Constitutional Amendment to Provide That Certain Vacancies Shall Be Filled by Appointment by the Governor
  • Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment
  • Introduced: February 11, 2025
  • Classification: Joint Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJR 1013 aimed to amend the Arkansas Constitution to allow the Governor to appoint individuals to fill vacancies in specific elected offices. This change was proposed to streamline the process of filling vacancies and ensure continuity in governance.

Key Provisions

The proposed amendment included the following significant changes:

  1. Appointment Authority:

    • The Governor would have the authority to appoint replacements for vacancies in:
      • The office of United States Senator
      • The office of Representative in the Congress of the United States
      • All elective state, district, circuit, county, and township offices
    • Exceptions to this provision would include:
      • The office of Lieutenant Governor
      • Members of the General Assembly
      • Representatives in the Congress of the United States

  2. Effective Date:

    • If passed, the amendment would take effect on January 1, 2027.

  3. Ballot Title and Popular Name:

    • The amendment would be presented to voters under the title: "A Constitutional Amendment to Provide that Vacancies in the Office of United States Senator, in the Office of Representative in the Congress of the United States, and in All Elective State, District, Circuit, and Township Offices Shall Be Filled by Appointment by the Governor."

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The amendment would primarily affect the process of filling vacancies in various elected offices within Arkansas, impacting both the Governor's role and the constituents of the affected offices.

  • Governance:

    • By allowing the Governor to appoint replacements, the bill aimed to reduce the time and potential political maneuvering associated with special elections, thereby promoting more stable governance.

Legislative Actions

  • February 11, 2025: The bill was filed and read for the first time. Rules were suspended, and it was read a second time before being referred to the Committee on State Agencies & Governmental Affairs - House.
  • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress to a vote or further consideration.

Conclusion

HJR 1013 proposed a significant change to the Arkansas Constitution regarding the appointment of officials to fill vacancies in various elected offices. Although it did not advance past committee, the bill highlighted ongoing discussions about governance and the processes for maintaining representation in state and federal offices.

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

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