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HB 1933

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING A SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS; AND TO CREATE A RECALL ELECTION AND PETITION FOR REMOVAL FOR A MEMBER OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Irvin and 1 co-sponsor

Act 912 allows Arkansas voters to recall school board members with a petition signed by 35% of voters, enhancing accountability and public trust in governance.

Notification that HB1933 is now Act 912
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1933

Summary of House Bill 1933 (Act 912)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1933, now known as Act 912, aims to amend existing laws governing school district boards of directors in Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to establish a formal process for the recall and removal of board members, thereby enhancing accountability and responsiveness to the electorate.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to the law regarding school district boards of directors:

  1. Recall Election Process:

    • A member of a school district board can be subjected to a recall election initiated by a petition from the electorate.
    • The petition must be signed by at least 35% of the qualified voters for the office held by the member targeted for removal.

  2. Reasons for Recall:

    • Members can be recalled for specific reasons, including:
      • Moral failings leading to pending criminal charges.
      • Loss of public trust.

  3. Petition Requirements:

    • The petition must include:
      • The name of the board member to be removed.
      • The office held by that member.
      • A statement indicating the intent to hold a recall election.
      • The reason for the removal, supported by an affidavit from the petitioner.

  4. Verification and Certification:

    • Upon filing, the county clerk has 10 days to verify the signatures on the petition.
    • If verified, the petition is certified, and the school district board and county election officials are notified.

  5. Timeline for Recall Elections:

    • If the petition is certified, the recall election will occur at the next scheduled school board election.
    • If the next election is less than 60 days away, the recall will be held at the subsequent election.

  6. Vacancy Procedures:

    • If a member is removed, the vacancy will be filled according to existing procedures, and the removed member cannot be reappointed to the board.

  7. Limit on Recall Petitions:

    • A board member can only face one recall petition during their elected term.

Affected Parties

This legislation directly impacts:
- Members of school district boards of directors: They are now subject to recall under specific circumstances.
- Electors: The bill empowers voters by providing a mechanism to remove board members who may not be fulfilling their duties or have lost public trust.
- School Districts: The governance and accountability structures within school districts will be affected, potentially leading to changes in board member behavior and decision-making.

Fiscal Impact

According to the Arkansas Department of Education, there is no fiscal impact associated with the implementation of this bill.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 31, 2025
  • Passed: April 15, 2025
  • Enrolled and Transmitted to Governor: April 16, 2025
  • Notification of Act: April 21, 2025

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1933, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the implications for school district governance in Arkansas.

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

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