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SB 1

AN ACT FOR THE EXPENSES FOR THE ARKANSAS SENATE OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2025 FISCAL YEAR.

2025 Regular Session

Senate Bill 1 reschedules Louisiana's 2026 spring elections, shifting dates for primaries and general elections, impacting candidates and voter participation.

Notification that SB1 is now Act 9
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Bill Summary · SB 1

Summary of Senate Bill 1 (SB 1)

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) aims to amend certain provisions of the Louisiana Election Code to adjust the dates and procedures for elections scheduled in the calendar year 2026. The bill specifically focuses on the spring elections for municipal and ward officers, as well as party primary elections.

Key Provisions

  • Election Dates:

    • The spring primary election is rescheduled from April 18, 2026, to May 16, 2026.
    • The spring general election is rescheduled from May 30, 2026, to June 27, 2026.

  • Ballot Adjustments:

    • Any contests, propositions, or questions originally set for the April 18 and May 30 elections will now appear on the May 16 and June 27 ballots, respectively.

  • Qualifying Period:

    • The qualifying period for candidates in the spring primary election will open on February 11, 2026.

  • Nominating Petitions:

    • Signatures collected on or after September 16, 2025, for candidates appearing on the May 16 ballot will be considered timely.
    • The required number of signatures for candidates is set at 750 for U.S. House representatives and 2,500 for U.S. Senate candidates.

  • Campaign Finance Reporting:

    • Committees and candidates for major offices must file financial reports by November 20, 2025, covering activities up to 190 days before the May 16 election.
    • Supplemental and annual reports originally due on February 15, 2026, will now be due by March 2, 2026.

  • Authority of Secretary of State:

    • The Secretary of State is authorized to make necessary changes to election-related rules and materials to reflect the new dates without additional approvals.

Who is Affected?

  • Candidates: Individuals running for municipal and ward offices, as well as those participating in party primary elections in 2026.
  • Voters: Citizens who will be voting in the spring elections, as the changes may affect their voting schedules and ballot content.
  • Election Committees: Organizations involved in the election process will need to adjust their reporting and compliance timelines.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Status: SB 1 was introduced on October 22, 2025, and has passed the Senate with amendments. It is currently awaiting consideration in the House.
  • Effective Date: The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the lapse of time for gubernatorial action.

Conclusion

SB 1 represents a significant adjustment to the election schedule in Louisiana for 2026, aiming to streamline the electoral process and ensure clarity for candidates and voters alike. The changes are designed to facilitate a smoother election cycle and maintain compliance with state election laws.

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

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