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HB 1706

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING ELECTIONS; AND TO PROHIBIT RANKED CHOICE VOTING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bart Hester and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1706 prohibits ranked choice voting in Arkansas elections, reinforcing traditional voting methods and affecting local jurisdictions and voter engagement.

Notification that HB1706 is now Act 829
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Bill Summary · HB 1706

Summary of House Bill 1706 (Act 829)

Bill Number: HB 1706
Title: To Amend the Law Concerning Elections; and to Prohibit Ranked Choice Voting
Status: Now Act 829
Introduced: March 06, 2025
Primary Sponsors: Representative McCollum, Senator Hester

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1706 aims to amend existing election laws in the state of Arkansas by explicitly prohibiting the use of ranked choice voting (RCV) in all local, state, and federal elections. The bill seeks to clarify the voting methods permissible under Arkansas law and to ensure that elections are conducted using traditional voting methods.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section to the Arkansas Code, specifically addressing ranked choice voting:

  1. Definition of Ranked Choice Voting:

    • Ranked choice voting is defined as a method that allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference and tabulates votes in multiple rounds until a candidate achieves a majority.

  2. Prohibition of Ranked Choice Voting:

    • Ranked choice voting is prohibited for determining the election or nomination of candidates for any elective office within the state.

  3. Conflict with Local Ordinances:

    • Any existing or future local ordinances that conflict with this prohibition will be rendered void.

  4. Exemptions:

    • The prohibition does not apply to qualified electors voting by absentee ballot under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act or to members of the uniformed services and citizens residing outside the United States.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1706 will have several implications:

  • Electoral Process: The bill reinforces traditional voting methods, potentially impacting how elections are conducted and how candidates are nominated.
  • Local Governments: Local jurisdictions will need to align their voting practices with state law, which may affect any local initiatives that had considered implementing ranked choice voting.
  • Voter Participation: The prohibition may influence voter engagement and perceptions of the electoral process, particularly among those who support ranked choice voting as a means to enhance democratic representation.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 06, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • April 01, 2025: Passed in the House and sent to the Senate.
  • April 10, 2025: Returned from the Senate with a recommendation to pass.
  • April 14, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • April 15, 2025: Correctly enrolled and transmitted to the Governor's Office.
  • April 17, 2025: Notification that HB 1706 is now Act 829.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1706, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on Arkansas's electoral landscape.

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

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