Bill > HJR1003

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to enhance government transparency in Arkansas, establishing a comprehensive framework for public information disclosure. The amendment defines government transparency as the obligation to share or deliver information to citizens, emphasizing the importance of open and public performance of government business. It mandates that any laws affecting government transparency must be proposed by a two-thirds majority vote in the legislature and then referred to voters for approval at the next general election, with a narrow emergency exception requiring a nine-tenths legislative vote. The amendment provides citizens the right to sue the state for transparency failures and allows for attorney's fees if successful, while also establishing that existing laws inconsistent with this amendment are null and void. Additionally, the amendment includes provisions for severability and sets its effective date as November 4, 2026. The resolution aims to strengthen citizens' access to government information by creating a robust legal mechanism for ensuring transparency, with the ultimate goal of making public officials more accountable and decision-making processes more open and accessible to the people of Arkansas.

Government Affairs

https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hjr1003&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R