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SB 586

Relating to requirements for filling vacancies in certain elected federal, state, and county offices

2025 Regular Session

Senate Bill 586 raises the vote requirement for constitutional amendments in Arkansas to two-thirds, making it harder for voters to change the state constitution.

Chapter 108, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
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Bill Summary · SB 586

Summary of Senate Bill 586 (SB 586)

Overview

Senate Bill 586, titled the "Protect Our Constitution Act," was introduced on March 31, 2025, by Senator J. Dotson and Representative Gazaway. The bill aims to amend the Arkansas Constitution regarding the percentage of votes required for the approval of constitutional amendments.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 586 is to increase the threshold for passing constitutional amendments in Arkansas. The bill seeks to ensure that any proposed amendment is supported by a larger segment of the electorate, thereby reinforcing the stability and integrity of the state constitution.

Key Provisions

  1. Amendment to Voting Threshold:

    • The bill proposes that any constitutional amendment submitted to voters must receive approval from at least two-thirds (2/3) of the votes cast, rather than a simple majority.

  2. Effective Date:

    • If passed, the amendments would take effect 30 days after the election in which they are approved, unless specified otherwise.

  3. Conflicting Measures:

    • The bill clarifies that if conflicting measures are approved by a majority of votes at the same election, the measure receiving the highest number of affirmative votes will become law.

  4. Emergency Clause:

    • An emergency clause is included, stating that the act should become effective immediately upon approval by the Governor or upon the expiration of the veto period if not acted upon.

Impact

  • Electorate: The bill would directly affect Arkansas voters by raising the bar for what constitutes a valid constitutional amendment, potentially making it more challenging to amend the state constitution.
  • Legislative Process: It would also impact how future amendments are proposed and debated within the Arkansas General Assembly, as only those with significant public support would be likely to pass.

Legislative Actions

  • Status: The bill has undergone multiple readings and committee reviews but ultimately died on the Senate calendar at the sine die adjournment on May 5, 2025.
  • Committee Recommendations: It received recommendations for passage from several committees but faced opposition during later readings.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 586 represents a significant shift in the legislative landscape of Arkansas by proposing a higher threshold for constitutional amendments. While it aims to protect the constitution from frequent changes, it also raises questions about the accessibility of the amendment process for future generations. The bill's progression through the legislative process highlights the complexities and challenges of enacting constitutional changes.

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

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