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Bill

SB 299

TO REQUIRE A STAFF MEMBER TO WITNESS AN ADMINISTRATOR ASSISTING A RESIDENT OF A LONG-TERM RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY WITH ABSENTEE VOTING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alyssa Brown and 1 co-sponsor

Arkansas law now requires a staff witness when care facility administrators help residents vote absentee, aimed at preventing coercion and ensuring voting integrity.

Notification that SB299 is now Act 403
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 299

Legislative bill overview

SB 299 requires that when an administrator of a long-term residential care facility assists a resident with absentee voting, a staff member must be present to witness the interaction. The bill became law (Act 403) in Arkansas on March 31, 2025, after passing both chambers and receiving gubernatorial approval.

Why is this important

Absentee voting in care facilities raises concerns about resident autonomy and potential coercion, as residents may be vulnerable to undue influence. The witnessing requirement aims to create accountability and documentation that assistance was provided appropriately, protecting both residents' voting rights and facilities' legal standing.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Care facilities may face staffing challenges finding available witnesses for each absentee voting interaction, potentially creating delays or discouraging participation
  • Privacy concerns: Residents may feel their voting privacy is compromised by having a witness present during assistance, which could discourage voting or create discomfort
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what constitutes "assistance" or whether the witness has defined responsibilities, leaving room for inconsistent application across facilities

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

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