An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Concerning Constitutional Amendments Considered By Electors At A General Election.
Impact
The proposed changes aim to streamline the amendment process and ensure greater consensus on potential changes to the Constitution. The amendment would replace the current provision that requires only a simple majority for most measures submitted to voters, thereby increasing the threshold for constitutional amendments. This shift could lead to increased stability in state laws, as amendments would only proceed with substantial voter backing, fostering broader public support and deliberation.
Summary
HJR1011 proposes an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution regarding the process by which constitutional amendments are considered by the state's electors at a general election. This amendment would stipulate that any measure submitted to voters would require a two-thirds majority approval to become part of the Constitution. Additionally, it would limit the General Assembly's ability to propose amendments, allowing only two amendments to be proposed at the same general election, with a possible third amendment concerning the salaries of certain elected officials being exempt from this restriction.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HJR1011 may arise from differing views on the appropriateness of increasing the standard for constitutional amendments. Proponents argue that a higher voting threshold could prevent hasty or poorly considered changes to the Constitution, potentially preserving the integrity and stability of Arkansas's foundational legal framework. Opponents may express concerns that this requirement could unduly limit the electorate's ability to respond to new issues or changing public sentiment, thereby entrenching existing laws and reducing democratic responsiveness.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.