Bill > HJR1018

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to the Arkansas Constitution, known as "The Citizens Only Voting Amendment," which establishes and clarifies voter qualifications and voting procedures. The amendment reinforces that only United States citizens who meet specific eligibility requirements can vote in Arkansas state and local elections, and introduces mandatory photographic identification requirements for voting. Specifically, voters must be U.S. citizens, Arkansas residents, at least 18 years old, and legally registered to vote. The resolution mandates that voters must present valid photo ID when voting in person or include a copy of photo ID with absentee ballots, with the state required to provide free identification to eligible voters who do not have one. If a voter cannot immediately provide photo ID, they may cast a provisional ballot that can be counted if they subsequently certify it according to legal procedures. The General Assembly is empowered to establish specific implementation details and potentially create exceptions to the photo ID requirement. The amendment is set to become effective on January 1, 2027, and will be submitted to Arkansas voters for approval at the next general election, with its ballot title describing it as an amendment ensuring only qualified citizens can vote in the state's elections.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hjr1018&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R